JP2006035108A - Electrolytic water producing apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrolytic water producing apparatus which has a raw water storage tank for storing raw water and an electrolytic cell and is provided with a water cleaner for cleaning raw water supplied from the raw water storage tank to the electrolytic cell, the apparatus in which replacement of the water cleaner is facilitated and raw water is supplied to the raw water storage tank in a short period of time in a simple and easy fashion. <P>SOLUTION: The raw water storage tank 1 is composed of a tank body 1a opened upward and a freely attachable and detachable cover body 1b which closes an upper part opening of the tank body 1a. The water cleaner 6 for cleaning raw water stored in the raw water storage tank 1 is held and fixed to the cover body 1b. Consequently, the water cleaner 6 can be easily replaced in a state in which the cover body 1b is detached. Further, when the raw water is supplied to the raw water storage tank 1, the raw water can easily be supplied to the tank 1 in a short period of time without passing through the water cleaner 6. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrolyzed water generating apparatus that electrolyzes raw water such as tap water to generate electrolyzed water such as alkaline ionized water or acidic ionized water.

  Electrolyzed water is a general term for aqueous solutions obtained by electrolytic treatment of water, and electrolyzed water generators are used for drinking alkaline electrolyzed water (alkaline ionized water), which has a function of electrolyzing water, and acidic for external use. An apparatus that generates electrolyzed water or the like.

  Conventionally, an electrolyzed water generating device includes a continuous type in which electrolyzed water is continuously generated by applying a voltage between electrodes while continuously passing raw water through an electrolyzer equipped with electrodes and a diaphragm, and an electrolyzer. There are two types of storage type, in which electrolyzed water is generated by applying a voltage between electrodes for a certain period of time with a certain amount of raw water stored therein.

  The schematic diagram of the structure of the conventional general electrolyzed water generating apparatus is shown in FIG.12 and FIG.13.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of the configuration of a water storage type electrolyzed water generating apparatus. In the illustrated example, the electrolytic cell 2 is separated by a diaphragm 5 into a cathode chamber 2a and an anode chamber 2b. A cathode 3a is disposed in the cathode chamber 2a, and an anode 3b is disposed in the anode chamber 2b.

  In such an electrolyzed water generating device, potable water (raw water) containing calcium ions such as tap water is stored in the electrolyzer 2 and a voltage is applied between the cathode 3a and the anode 3b for a certain period of time. When direct current is applied to the raw water, the positive ions such as calcium ions contained in the raw water are attracted to the cathode, the anions are attracted to the anode, and the water in contact with the surface of the electrode is electrolyzed and the reaction shown below Happens.

Cathode reaction 2H ₂ O + 2e ⁻ → H ₂ + 2OH ⁻
M ^{n +} + nOH ⁻ → M (OH) _n
Anode reaction H ₂ O → 1 / 2O ₂ + 2H ⁺ + 2e ⁻
2Cl ⁻ → Cl ₂ + 2e ⁻
Cl ₂ (aq) + H ₂ O → HCl + HOCl
That is, electrolysis produces alkaline ionized water having a pH value containing hydroxide ions, hydrogen gas, calcium ions and calcium hydroxide in the cathode chamber 2a, and oxygen gas and hypochlorous acid in the anode chamber 2b. Acidic electrolyzed water having an acidic pH value is generated.

  In addition, when the electrical conductivity of raw | natural water is low, in order to produce | generate alkaline ion water of a predetermined | prescribed pH value, it is necessary to add a calcium compound as an electrolysis adjuvant.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of the configuration of a continuous electrolyzed water generator. In the illustrated example, the electrolytic cell 2 is separated by a diaphragm 5 into a cathode chamber 2a and an anode chamber 2b. A cathode 3a is disposed in the cathode chamber 2a, and an anode 3b is disposed in the anode chamber 2b. A water supply path 4 for supplying raw water to the electrolytic cell 2 is branched into a cathode inflow path 4a that directly communicates with the cathode chamber 2a and an anode inflow path 4b that directly communicates with the anode chamber 2b. The water supply path 4 is provided with a water purifier 55, and the anode inflow path 4b is provided with an electrolyte supply device 56. The water purifier 55 removes odorous components such as organic substances, inorganic substances or hypochlorous acid contained in the raw water, and is usually constituted by a microfilter such as an antibacterial activated carbon filter and a hollow fiber membrane. The cathode chamber 2a is connected to a water discharge path (cathode water discharge path 20) for discharging alkaline ion water generated in the cathode chamber 2a, and the acidic ion generated in the anode chamber 2b is connected to the anode chamber 2b. A water discharge path (anode water discharge path 22) for discharging water is connected.

  In the electrolyzed water generating apparatus configured as described above, after the raw water passing through the water supply path 4 is purified by the water purifier 55 in a state where a voltage is applied between the cathode 3a and the anode 3b, the cathode inflow path 4a and the anode inflow passage 4b are respectively supplied to the cathode chamber 2a and the anode chamber 2b and electrolyzed, and then discharged from the cathode water discharge passage 20 and the anode water discharge passage 22, and thus the electrolyzed water continues. Is generated automatically. At this time, if the electrolyte for improving the electrolysis efficiency is introduced into the cathode chamber 2a, the electrolyte is directly mixed into the alkaline ionized water discharged from the electrolytic cell 2, so that the anode supply path 56b is connected to the anode by the electrolyte supply device 56. The electrolyte is added only to the water flowing into the chamber 2b.

  In addition, a combination of the structure of each of the water storage type and the continuous type electrolyzed water generating apparatuses has been proposed. Patent applications by the present applicant include Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2003-10275, 2003-10355, and 2003. -10365, Japanese Patent Application No. 2003-10366, and the like. About an example of such a composite type electrolyzed water generating apparatus, FIG. 14 shows a schematic overall view (cross-sectional view), and FIG.

  In the illustrated example, the electrolyzed water generating device includes a raw water storage tank 1 in which raw water is stored, an electrolytic tank 2 having a cathode 3a and an anode 3b, and raw water stored in the raw water storage tank 1 in the electrolytic tank 2. A water supply path 4 for supplying water and water discharge paths 20 and 22 for discharging the electrolyzed water generated in the electrolytic cell 2 to the outside are provided.

  The raw water storage tank 1 includes a tank body 1a that opens upward, and a lid 1b that closes an upper opening of the tank body 1a. A raw water inlet 7 that connects the inside and the outside of the tank main body 1 a is provided at the bottom of the tank main body 1 a, and the raw water inlet 7 is connected to the water supply path 4. A water stop valve 11 is provided at the raw water inlet 7.

  A pump 18 and an electromagnetic valve 19 are provided in the middle of the water supply path 4. When supplying raw water to the electrolytic cell 2 through the water supply path 4, the electromagnetic valve 19 is opened and the pump 18 is operated. When the raw water is circulated in the water supply path 4 by the driving force and the supply of the raw water to the electrolytic cell 2 is stopped, the electromagnetic valve 19 is closed and the pump 18 is stopped.

  The inside of the electrolytic cell 2 is divided into a cathode chamber 2a and an anode chamber 2b by a diaphragm 5, and a cathode 3a is disposed in the cathode chamber 2a, and an anode 3b is disposed in the anode chamber 2b.

  In addition, one end of a cathode water discharge path 20 is connected to the cathode chamber 2 a, and a discharge port 21 that opens outside the apparatus body 12 is provided at the other end of the cathode water discharge path 20. One end of an anode water discharge path 22 is connected to the anode chamber 2 b, and a water discharge port 23 is formed at the other end of the anode water discharge path 22 so as to open toward the electrolyzed water storage tank 24. An air intake path 25 is branched from the cathode water discharge path 20. A condensed water drainage path 26 for draining condensed water is also provided.

  Further, the apparatus main body 12 is provided with a control circuit 28 for controlling the operation of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus such as the control of the voltage applied between the electrodes in the electrolytic cell 2 and the operation control of the electromagnetic valve 19 and the pump 18. An operation circuit 29 for transmitting a control signal to the control circuit 28 is also provided. The operation circuit 29 is configured to output a control signal corresponding to the operation switch 31 of the operation panel 30 provided on the outer surface of the apparatus main body.

  Reference numeral 32 denotes a power plug for receiving supply of driving energy for the electrolyzed water generating device.

  When obtaining electrolyzed water with such an electrolyzed water generating apparatus, it is preferable that raw water to be subjected to electrolysis is subjected to a purification treatment that removes impurities and the like in advance, so that at the bottom of the tank body 1a of the raw water storage tank 1 A filter 57 is provided so as to cover the opening of the raw water inlet 7, and filtration is performed by the filter 57.

  However, since such a filter 57 is provided at the bottom of the tank main body 1a of the raw water storage tank 1, it is difficult to remove, particularly when the raw water storage tank 1 is enlarged. there were. Therefore, when the life of the filter 57 is exhausted, the workability when the filter 57 is replaced is poor.

Therefore, a configuration as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 has also been proposed. FIG. 16 shows a water purifier 6 ′ composed of activated carbon, a microfilter or the like provided in the upper part of the tank body 1 a, and FIG. 17 shows such a water purifier 6 ′. Is provided at an intermediate portion in the tank body 1a. Since such a water purifier 6 'is not provided at the bottom of the tank body 1a, the water purifier 6' can be easily removed.
JP 2004-1104036 A Japanese Patent No. 3468241

  However, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, when the raw water is supplied to the raw water storage tank 1 and stored, the raw water is purified by passing through the water purifier 6 ′. When the raw water is supplied, it is necessary to wait until the raw water passes through the water purifier 6 '. Therefore, it takes a long time to supply the raw water, which is very time-consuming.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and in an electrolyzed water generating apparatus having a raw water storage tank capable of storing raw water and an electrolytic cell, the raw water supplied from the raw water storage tank to the electrolytic cell is purified. It is an object of the present invention to provide an electrolyzed water generating apparatus that includes a water purifier and that can easily replace the water purifier and that can simply supply raw water to a raw water storage tank in a short time.

  The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the present invention supplies a raw water storage tank 1 capable of storing raw water, an electrolytic cell 2 including a cathode 3a and an anode 3b, and raw water stored in the raw water storage tank 1 to the electrolytic cell 2. In the electrolyzed water generating apparatus having the water supply path 4 and the water discharge paths 20 and 22 for discharging the electrolyzed water generated in the electrolyzer 2 to the outside, the raw water storage tank 1 has a tank body 1a that opens upward; A detachable lid 1b that closes the upper opening of the tank body 1a is provided, and a water purifier 6 that purifies the raw water stored in the raw water storage tank 1 is held and fixed to the lid 1b. Is. For this reason, when the water purifier 6 is replaced, the replacement work can be easily performed with the lid 1b detached from the tank body 1a, and when the raw water is supplied to the raw water storage tank 1, the cover 1b is removed. The raw water can be supplied to the tank main body 1a without being passed through the water purifier 6 in a state of being detached from the tank main body 1a, and it is not necessary to wait until the raw water passes through the water purifier 6 when supplying the raw water. Raw water can be easily supplied in time.

  In the electrolyzed water generating apparatus, it is preferable that a raw water inlet 7 that communicates the raw water storage tank 1 and the water supply path 4 communicates with the water purifier 6. In this case, the raw water supplied from the raw water storage tank 1 to the electrolytic cell 2 through the raw water inlet 7 and the water supply path 4 is always purified through the water purifier 6.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the said water purifier 6 is detachably hold | maintained and fixed with respect to the said cover body 1b. In this case, the replacement work of the water purifier 6 is further facilitated, and the water purifier 6 is easily replaced in accordance with the performance deterioration of the water purifier 6.

  Moreover, it is also preferable that the said cover body 1b has the several hole 9 which the said holding rib 8 communicates with a water purifier while it has the holding rib 8 which can fit the said water purifier 6 freely. In this case, the water purifier 6 is detachably held and fixed by the holding rib 8, and since the holding rib 8 covers the outer surface of the water purifier 6, the water purifier 6 is prevented from being directly touched by a hand or the like. 6 can be kept clean, and the supply of raw water to the water purifier 6 can be ensured by the holes 9 provided in the holding rib 8.

  Further, it is preferable that the plurality of holes 9 provided in the holding rib 8 be formed so as to have a larger opening area as it is provided above. In this case, intrusion of raw water into the water purifier 6 on the upper side of the water purifier 6 can be promoted, and intrusion of raw water into the water purifier 6 on the lower side can be suppressed, whereby raw water in the raw water storage tank 1 can be suppressed. It can suppress that the path length at the time of passing the water purifier 6 becomes short, and can maintain high purification efficiency.

  Further, the water purifier 6 is in a state of being accommodated in the protective container 54 before being held and fixed to the lid 1b. When the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b, the water purifier 6 is removed from the protective container 54. It is preferable that all the protective containers are removed from the water purifier 6 after the joint with the lid 1b is exposed and the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b at the joint. In this way, when the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b when the water purifier 6 is replaced, the water purifier 6 can be installed without touching the hand directly. It can be kept clean.

  Moreover, it is preferable that the water purifier 6 is formed of the filter medium 10 and has a hollow structure. In this case, the raw water passes through the water purifier 6 and can be purified by the action of the filter medium 10, and the pressure loss when the raw water passes through the water purifier 6 is reduced, so that the raw water storage tank 1 and the electrolytic cell 2 are reduced. The amount of raw water supplied to can be maintained.

  Moreover, it is also preferable that the water purifier 6 is formed by the filter medium 10 and that the density of the filter medium 10 is formed so that the density becomes smaller toward the upper side. In this case, the water purifier on the upper side of the water purifier 6. 6, and intrusion of raw water into the water purifier 6 on the lower side can be suppressed, whereby the path length when the raw water in the raw water storage tank 1 passes through the water purifier 6 can be reduced. It is possible to suppress the shortening and maintain high purification efficiency.

  According to the present invention, the replacement of the water purifier can be easily performed with the lid detached from the tank body, and when the raw water is supplied to the raw water storage tank, the lid is attached to the tank body. The raw water can be supplied to the tank body without passing through the water purifier in a state where it is detached from the water, and it is not necessary to wait until the raw water passes through the water purifier when supplying the raw water. It can supply.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be described based on the best mode for carrying out the invention.

  1 and 2 each show an example of a channel system diagram of an electrolyzed water generating device according to the present invention, and FIG. 3 shows a schematic overall view (cross-sectional view) in the configuration shown in FIG.

  The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the present invention supplies a raw water storage tank 1 in which raw water is stored, an electrolytic cell 2 including a cathode 3a and an anode 3b, and raw water stored in the raw water storage tank 1 to the electrolytic cell 2. A water supply path 4 and water discharge paths 20 and 22 for discharging the electrolyzed water generated in the electrolytic cell 2 to the outside are provided.

  The raw water storage tank 1 includes a tank body 1a that opens upward, and a lid 1b that closes an upper opening of the tank body 1a. A raw water inlet 7 that connects the inside and the outside of the tank main body 1 a is provided at the bottom of the tank main body 1 a, and the raw water inlet 7 is connected to the water supply path 4.

  A water stop valve 11 is provided at the raw water inlet 7. The water stop valve 11 has a function of opening and closing the flow of water at the raw water inlet 7. When the raw water storage tank 1 is detached from the apparatus main body 12, the water stop valve 11 is closed, and the raw water storage tank 1 is opened. When attached to the apparatus main body 12, the water stop valve 11 is in an open state. The water stop valve 11 may be one that can be manually opened and closed.

  Here, a fitting rib 13 projecting downward is provided on the peripheral edge of the lower surface of the raw water storage tank 1 over the entire circumference, while a fitting recess 14 opening upward in the apparatus main body 12. Is formed. The raw water storage tank 1 is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 12 by fitting the fitting ribs 13 of the raw water storage tank 1 into the fitting recesses 14 of the apparatus main body 12.

  At this time, if a gap is formed between the inner peripheral surface of the fitting recess 14 and the outer peripheral surface of the fitting rib 13, for example, when cold water is stored in the raw water storage tank, the outer surface of the raw water storage tank is formed. When condensed water is generated, the condensed water can be stored in the fitting recess 14.

  Further, a fitting rib 15 projecting downward is provided so as to surround the raw water inlet 7 of the raw water storage tank 1 from the lower surface of the raw water storage tank 1 inside the fitting rib 13. 12 is provided with a fitting rib 16 that protrudes upward so as to surround the opening of the water supply path 4 on the bottom surface of the fitting recess 14. When the raw water storage tank 1 is attached to the apparatus main body 12 as described above, the fitting rib 15 of the raw water storage tank 1 and the fitting rib 16 of the apparatus main body 12 are simultaneously fitted to each other, thereby supplying the water supply path 4. And the raw water storage tank 1 communicate with each other through the raw water inlet 7. In the illustrated example, the fitting rib 15 of the raw water storage tank is fitted inside the fitting rib 16 of the apparatus main body 12, and the inner peripheral surface of the fitting rib 16 is for ensuring water tightness. A sealing material 17 is provided.

  As described above, the water supply path 4 has one end opened at the bottom surface of the fitting recess 14 and the other end connected to the electrolytic cell 2. A pump 18 and an electromagnetic valve 19 are provided in the middle of the water supply path 4. When supplying raw water to the electrolytic cell 2 through the water supply path 4, the electromagnetic valve 19 is opened and the pump 18 is operated. When the raw water is circulated in the water supply path 4 by the driving force and the supply of the raw water to the electrolytic cell 2 is stopped, the electromagnetic valve 19 is closed and the pump 18 is stopped. The pump 18 is preferably arranged below the attachment position at the bottom of the raw water storage tank 1 so that the raw water is immediately supplied to the pump 18 due to a water drop.

  The inside of the electrolytic cell 2 is divided into a cathode chamber 2a and an anode chamber 2b by a diaphragm 5, and a cathode 3a is disposed in the cathode chamber 2a, and an anode 3b is disposed in the anode chamber 2b.

  The cathode chamber 2a is connected to one end of a cathode water discharge path 20 for discharging alkaline ion water generated in the cathode chamber 2a. The other end of the cathode water discharge path 20 is connected to the outside of the apparatus main body 12. A discharge port 21 opened at is provided. One end of an anode water discharge path 22 for discharging acidic ion water generated in the anode chamber 2b is connected to the anode chamber 2b, and a water discharge port 23 is connected to the other end of the anode water discharge path 22 in the electrolytic water storage tank. It is formed to open toward 24. Here, the electrolyzed water storage tank 24 is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 12, and stores acidic ion water discharged from the anode chamber 2b via the anode water discharge passage 22. .

  An air intake path 25 is branched from the cathode water discharge path 20, and an opening 27 at the tip of the air intake path 25 opens toward the electrolyzed water storage tank 24. For this reason, when water enters the air intake path 25 from the opening 27 when the water supply is stopped, the water supply path 4 and the water discharge paths 20 and 22 in the apparatus main body 12 and the residual water in the electrolytic cell 2 are quickly removed. It can be discharged, and deterioration over time due to microbial propagation of residual water can be prevented.

  Further, a condensed water drainage path 26 is also provided inside the apparatus main body 12, and one end of the condensed water drainage path 26 opens at the bottom surface of the fitting recess 14, and the other end faces the electrolytic water storage tank 24. (In the example shown in the figure, after joining the anode water discharge passage 22, it opens toward the electrolyzed water storage tank 24). The condensed water drainage path 26 has a function of draining the condensed water to the electrolytic water storage tank 24 when the condensed water of the raw water storage tank 1 is stored in the fitting recess 14 as described above.

  Further, the apparatus main body 12 is provided with a control circuit 28 for controlling the operation of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus such as the control of the voltage applied between the electrodes in the electrolytic cell 2 and the operation control of the electromagnetic valve 19 and the pump 18. An operation circuit 29 for transmitting a control signal to the control circuit 28 is also provided. The operation circuit 29 is configured to output a control signal corresponding to the operation switch 31 of the operation panel 30 provided on the outer surface of the apparatus main body.

  Reference numeral 32 denotes a power plug for receiving supply of driving energy for the electrolyzed water generating device.

  In the case of generating electrolyzed water using such an electrolyzed water generating device, raw water is once stored in the raw water storage tank 1, and then the raw water is continuously passed from the raw water storage tank 1 to the electrolytic tank 2 and electrolyzed. Electrolyzed water can be obtained by applying a voltage between the electrodes in the tank 2. Specifically, first, the user supplies raw water to the raw water storage tank 1. The raw water is not limited to tap water, and mineral water, cold water, or the like can be used, and the water quality, temperature, etc. are not particularly limited as long as they are drinkable water.

  In supplying raw water to the raw water storage tank 1, the lid 1b is detached from the tank body 1a in a state where the raw water storage tank 1 is detached from the apparatus body 12, and the raw water is supplied to the tank body 1a in this state. it can. Therefore, the raw water can be supplied by moving the raw water storage tank 1 to a place away from the arrangement position of the apparatus main body 12. Of course, the raw water may be supplied by detaching the lid 1b with the raw water storage tank 1 attached to the apparatus main body 12.

  Next, the solenoid valve 19 is opened and the pump 18 is operated by operating the operation switch 31 on the operation panel 30. At this time, the raw water stored in the raw water storage tank 1 receives driving force from the pump 18, flows into the water supply path 4 through the raw water inlet 7, and is continuously supplied to the electrolytic cell 2.

In the electrolytic cell 2, the raw water is electrolyzed by the reaction shown below while continuously passing through the electrolytic cell 2, and the cation (M ^{n +} ) contained in the raw water is transferred to the cathode 3 a and the anion (X ^- ) Is attracted to the anode 3b, and water in contact with the surface of the electrode is electrolyzed, and in the cathode chamber 2a, the pH value containing hydroxide ion, hydrogen gas, calcium ion, calcium hydroxide, etc. is alkaline. Electrolyzed water (alkaline ion water) is produced, and in the anode chamber 2b, electrolyzed water (acid ionic water) containing oxygen gas, hypochlorous acid, etc. and having an acidic value is produced. Cathode reaction 2H ₂ O + 2e ⁻ → H ₂ + 2OH ⁻
M ^{n +} + nOH ⁻ → M (OH) _n
Anode reaction H ₂ O → 1 / 2O ₂ + 2H ⁺ + 2e ⁻
2Cl ⁻ → Cl ₂ + 2e ⁻
Cl ₂ (aq) + H ₂ O → HCl + HOCl
Each generated electrolyzed water is continuously discharged through a predetermined path. That is, alkaline ionized water is discharged from the cathode chamber 2a through the cathode water discharge path 20 to the outside from the water discharge port 21, while acidic ion water is discharged from the anode chamber 2b through the anode water discharge path 22 and from the water discharge port 23. It is stored in the electrolyzed water storage tank 24.

  When tap water is electrolyzed as raw water, the carbon dioxide component contained in the tap water reacts with metal ions such as calcium on the cathode 3a side, and precipitates as calcium carbonate and adheres to the surface of the cathode 3a. The effective area is reduced, and current flows only on the remaining effective electrode surface of the cathode 3a, so that there is a problem that the cathode 3a is rapidly deteriorated. However, the durability of such an electrode is reduced. In order to suppress it, the applied voltage between the electrodes is periodically reversed to cause a normal reverse reaction to separate and remove calcium carbonate and the like adhering to the electrodes into metal ions and carbonic acid components.

  In the electrolyzed water generating apparatus having the above-described configuration, when supplying raw water to the raw water storage tank 1, the lid 1b is detached from the tank body 1a in a state where the raw water storage tank 1 is detached from the apparatus main body 12, Since the raw water can be supplied to the tank main body 1a in a state, the raw water storage tank 1 can be moved to a place away from the arrangement position of the apparatus main body 12, and the raw water can be supplied. There is no need to connect the device and the water tap as in the case of the device, and the installation location of the electrolyzed water generating device is not limited. Moreover, since acidic ion water etc. are stored in the electrolyzed water storage tank 24, it is not necessary to arrange | position an electrolyzed water production | generation apparatus in the vicinity of a drainage facility, and this also does not restrict | limit the installation place of an electrolyzed water production | generation apparatus.

  In addition, since only the raw water storage tank 1 needs to be moved to the water source such as a water tap when supplying the raw water, it is possible to prevent the apparatus main body 12 from being splashed with water, and to perform electrolysis. The tank 2 can be formed in a closed cell structure, so that the electrodes are not exposed to the outside as in the case of a water storage type electrolyzed water generation device, and various troubles such as electrode breakage are avoided. Is something that can be done.

  In this embodiment, an instruction to start electrolysis of the electrolyzed water generating device is input by operating the operation switch 31, but for example, electrolysis is automatically started simultaneously with the connection of the power plug 32 to a power outlet. In addition, a stop valve 11 that automatically opens when a certain level of raw water pressure is applied to the raw water storage tank 1 is provided to supply a certain amount or more of raw water into the raw water storage tank 1. In this case, the supply of raw water to the electrolytic cell 2 may be automatically started to perform electrolysis.

  In the present invention, the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b of the raw water storage tank 1 described above. The water purifier 6 can be formed, for example, by molding an activated carbon fiber or other appropriate filter medium 10. In this case, the raw water can be purified by removing impurities by passing through the water purifier 6.

  Further, when the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b in this way, the replacement of the water purifier 6 can be easily performed with the lid 1b detached from the tank body 1a, and the raw water storage When supplying raw water to the tank 1, the raw water can be supplied to the tank main body 1a without passing the water purifier 6 with the lid 1b detached from the tank main body 1a. Therefore, it is not necessary to wait until the water passes through the water purifier 6, and the raw water can be easily supplied in a short time.

  The water purifier 6 is detachably held and fixed to the lid 1b of the raw water storage tank 1 so that the water purifier 6 can be easily replaced, and no special equipment for detachment is required for replacement. However, for example, if it is held and fixed to the lid 1b of the raw water storage tank 1 by press-fitting, the replacement operation of the water purifier 6 becomes particularly easy. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 (a) and 4 (b), the water purifier 6 is formed in a columnar shape such as a cylinder or a prism, and a fitting recess 33 is provided in the upper end surface thereof, while the lower surface of the lid 1b is By forming a fitting convex portion 34 that matches the fitting concave portion 33 and fitting the fitting convex portion 34 and the fitting concave portion 33 by press fitting, the water purifier 6 is held and fixed on the lower surface side of the lid 1b. can do. In the example shown in FIGS. 4C and 4D, the water purifier 6 is formed in a columnar shape such as a cylinder or a prism, and the fitting rib 35 is provided on the lower surface of the lid 1b to project this fitting. The inner surface of the rib 35 is formed as a fitting recess 36 that matches the upper end portion of the water purifier 6, and the upper end portion of the water purifier 6 and the fitting recess 36 are fitted by press-fitting, so that the lower surface of the lid 1 b The water purifier 6 can be held and fixed on the side.

  Thus, when the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b, the water purifier 6 is disposed inside the raw water storage tank 1 when the lid 1b is attached to the tank body 1a. When the raw water is stored, the water purifier 6 is immersed in the raw water. At this time, the raw water is purified by passing through the water purifier 6.

  Moreover, it is preferable to arrange | position the said water purifier 6 so that the raw | natural water storage tank 1 may be connected to the raw | natural water inflow port 7 which connects the water supply path 4 (refer FIG. 2, 3).

  In the example shown in FIG. 4, a fitting recess 37 is provided on the lower end surface of the water purifier 6, while a fitting rib 38 surrounding the raw water inlet 7 is provided on the bottom surface inside the tank body 1 a. . At this time, when the lid 1b is attached to the tank body 1a with the water purifier 6 being held and fixed to the lid 1b, the fitting rib 38 is provided inside the fitting recess 37 of the water purifier 6 as shown in FIG. The water purifier 6 communicates with the raw water inlet 7 and the raw water inlet 7 is closed by the water purifier 6.

  When the water purifier 6 communicates with the raw water inlet 7 in this way, when the raw water inside the raw water storage tank 1 is supplied to the electrolytic cell 2, the raw water inlet 7 and the water supply are always passed after passing through the water purifier 6. It will be supplied to the electrolytic cell 2 through the path 4, and all the raw water supplied to the electrolytic cell 2 can be purified by the water purifier 6.

  Moreover, as shown in FIG. 6, while providing the holding rib 8 which can fit the water purifier 6 in the cover body 1b, it is possible to provide the holding rib 8 with a plurality of holes 9 communicating with the water purifier. it can. At this time, preferably, the side peripheral surface of the water purifier 6 is all covered with the holding rib 8 and the water purifier 6 is exposed through the hole 9.

  In this way, when the lid 1b is detached from the tank body 1a, the outer surface of the water purifier 6 that is held and fixed to the lid 1b is covered with the holding ribs 8. It is possible to prevent the water purifier 6 from being touched directly and keep the water purifier 6 clean. Moreover, the raw water in the raw water storage tank 1 can pass through the water purifier 6 through the hole 9, and the purification action of the raw water is not impaired.

  Here, when a mesh is stretched in the hole 9, it is possible to prevent the water purifier 6 from being directly touched by hand even at the position where the hole 9 is formed, and the water purifier 6 can be further kept clean.

  Further, at this time, the plurality of holes 9 provided in the holding rib 8 are preferably formed so that the opening area thereof becomes larger as the hole 9 formed on the upper side of the holding rib 8. In this case, when the raw water in the raw water storage tank 1 enters the water purifier 6 at the position where the hole 9 is formed, the upper hole 9, that is, the hole 9 at a position far from the raw water inlet 7, The amount of raw water entering the water purifier 6 at the position where the holes 9 are formed increases. Therefore, intrusion of raw water into the water purifier 6 on the upper side of the water purifier 6 is promoted, and intrusion of raw water into the water purifier 6 on the lower side is suppressed, and the raw water in the raw water storage tank 1 is reduced. It is possible to maintain high purification efficiency by suppressing the path length from entering the water purifier 6 to passing through the water purifier 6 to the raw water inlet 7.

  FIG. 7 shows a structure in which the water purifier 6 is removed from the lid 1b in the configuration shown in FIGS. 4 (c) and 4 (d). In the example shown in the figure, a release button 39 is provided in an inner portion surrounded by the fitting rib 35 of the lid 1b. The release button 39 protrudes from the lower surface of the lid 1b by being pressed from the upper surface side of the lid 1b, and presses the water purifier 6 held and fixed by press-fitting in the fitting rib 35 from the lid 1b. Detach.

  Moreover, what is shown in FIG. 8 is an example in the case where the water purifier 6 is connected to the lid body 1b by the bayonet method to be held and fixed. An upper case 40 is fixed to the upper end portion of the water purifier 6, and the upper case 40 protrudes outward on the columnar insertion portion 41 protruding upward and the outer peripheral surface of the insertion portion 41. Two engaging projections 42 are provided. On the other hand, a connection recess 43 matching the shape of the insertion portion 41 is provided on the lower surface of the lid 1b, and two spiral grooves on which the engagement protrusions 42 slide are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the connection recess 43. 44 is provided. An insertion notch 45 communicating with each spiral groove 44 is provided at the opening edge of the connection recess 43.

  In the case shown in FIG. 8, when the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b, the insertion portion 41 is inserted into the connection recess 43 in a state in which the protrusion and the insertion notch 45 are aligned with respect to the lid. By rotating the water purifier 6 by a predetermined angle, the engaging protrusions 42 slide in the spiral grooves 44, thereby engaging the insertion portion 41 with the connection recess 43. Further, when the water purifier 6 is detached from the lid 1b, the insertion portion 41 and the connection recess 43 are engaged by rotating the water purifier 6 in the opposite direction to the lid 1b. It is a thing to cancel.

  Moreover, what is shown in FIG. 9 is an example in the case where the water purifier 6 is connected to the lid 1b by screwing and held and fixed. In the illustrated example, the upper case 40 is fixed to the upper end portion of the water purifier 6, and the upper case 40 is provided with a columnar insertion portion 41 that protrudes upward. A male screw groove 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface. On the other hand, a connection recess 43 that matches the shape of the insertion portion 41 is provided on the lower surface of the lid 1b, and a female screw groove 47 is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the connection recess 43.

  9, when the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b, the insertion portion 41 is inserted into the connection recess 43, and the water purifier 6 is rotated with respect to the lid to connect the insertion portion 41. It is screwed into the recess 43. Further, when the water purifier 6 is detached from the lid 1b, the water purifier 6 is rotated relative to the lid 1b in the opposite direction so that the insertion portion 41 and the connection recess 43 are screwed together. It is a thing to cancel.

  In the case shown in FIG. 10, when the water purifier 6 is stored in the protective container 54 and the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b, the protective container 54 is joined to the lid 1b of the water purifier 6. The water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b at the joint, and the protective container 54 is completely removed from the water purifier.

  The illustrated one shows an example in which the water purifier 6 shown in FIGS. The protective container 54 has an accommodation space 48 in which the water purifier 6 is accommodated. A connection space 49 that communicates with the storage space 48 and has a larger diameter than the storage space 48 is provided above the storage space 48. The connection space 49 is open above the connection space 49. Is exposed to the outside. The connection space 49 is formed to be larger in diameter than the accommodation space 48 by at least the thickness of the fitting rib 35 of the lid 1b, and the vertical dimension of the accommodation space 48 is equal to or smaller than the vertical dimension of the fitting rib 35. It is preferable to be formed. Further, the lower end surface of the protective container 54 is closed and an extrusion button 50 is provided. When the push-out button 50 is pressed from the outer surface side, the push-out button 50 protrudes in the housing space 48 and presses the lower end of the water purifier 6, whereby the water purifier 6 can be pushed out from the protective container 54.

  The unused water purifier 6 can be kept clean by being housed in such a protective container 54, and at this time, the opening of the protective container 54 is sealed by closing the opening with a cap or sheet material. Then, the water purifier 6 can be kept clean.

  Further, when the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b, when the closing member as described above is provided, the blocking member is removed from the protective container 54, and the lid of the water purifier 6 is removed. The upper end part which is a connection part with the body 1b is exposed. Next, the opening of the protective container 54 faces the fitting rib of the lid 1 b, and the fitting rib is accommodated in the connection space 49. When the push-out button 50 is pushed out in this state, the water purifier 6 is pushed out toward the upper opening of the protective container 54, and the upper end of the water purifier 6 is press-fitted into the fitting rib to be manually fitted. Next, the protective container 54 is pulled out from the water purifier 6, and thereby the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1 b.

  When the protective container 54 is used in this way, the water purifier 6 is covered with the lid 1b while the water purifier 6 is accommodated in the protective container 54, so that the water purifier 6 can be covered without touching the water purifier 6 directly. The body 1b can be held and fixed, and the water purifier 6 can be kept clean.

  In the illustrated example, the protective container 54 is formed of a rigid case, but the shape, material, and the like of the protective container 54 are not particularly limited. For example, the protective container 54 is formed of a soft sheet material, paper material, or the like. The protective container 54 may be formed, and in that case, when the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b, a part of the protective container 54 containing the water purifier 6 is opened, cut, or the like. Then, the joint of the water purifier 6 with the lid 1b is exposed from the protective container 54, and after the water purifier 6 is held and fixed to the lid 1b at the joint, the protective container 54 is completely removed from the water purifier 6. It is preferable.

  As described above, the water purifier 6 can be formed by molding the filter medium 10 such as activated carbon fiber, but the water purifier 6 may be formed solid or hollow. If it forms especially hollow, the pressure loss at the time of raw | natural water passing the water purifier 6 can be reduced, and sufficient flow volume of the raw | natural water supplied to the electrolytic cell 2 can be ensured.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, the filter medium 10 such as activated carbon fiber is formed into a hollow cylindrical shape, and an upper case 40 is provided at the upper end of the filter medium 10 and a lower case 51 is provided at the lower end. The upper case 40 closes the upper opening of the filter medium 10 and is provided with an appropriate connection structure with the lid 1b according to the structure of the lid 1b (see, for example, FIG. 8). In addition, the lower case 51 is provided so as to close the lower opening of the filter medium 10 and is provided with a circulation port communicating with the opening. Further, the lower case 51 is provided with a connection structure for connecting the raw water inlet 7 of the tank body 1a and the circulation port as necessary.

  Moreover, it is preferable to form the filter medium 10 such as activated carbon fibers constituting the water purifier 6 so that the density thereof becomes smaller toward the upper side (that is, the portion farther from the raw water inlet 7). In the example shown in FIG. 11, the filter medium 10 has a structure in which three types of layers 10 a, 10 b, and 10 c having different densities are stacked one above the other, and the upper layer is formed so that the density becomes smaller. Yes.

  When the filter medium 10 of the water purifier 6 is formed in this manner, the lower the density of the filter medium 10, the lower the resistance when raw water enters, so the raw water is separated from the upper side of the filter medium 10, that is, from the raw water inlet 7. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the path length from the raw water in the raw water storage tank 1 from entering the water purifier 6 to passing through the water purifier 6 to the raw water inlet 7 is reduced. Thus, high purification efficiency can be maintained.

  In addition, the water purifier 6 is loaded with a reagent that causes a color change due to reaction with chlorine, so that it is possible to determine the replacement time of the water purifier 6 by visually recognizing the color change of the reagent. preferable. In the example of FIG. 11, a filter 53 made of a nonwoven fabric or the like is provided at the flow port 52 of the lower case 51, and a reagent that causes a color change by reaction with chlorine, such as gardenia pigment, is supported on the filter 53. ing. In this way, when the raw water passes through the water purifier 6, the raw water passes through the filter 53 after passing through the filter medium 10. At this time, if the water purifier 6 has sufficient purification performance and chlorine is sufficiently removed from the raw water, the raw water passing through the filter 53 is the one from which chlorine has been sufficiently removed and is carried by the filter 53. The reaction between the reagent and chlorine does not occur, and the color of the reagent does not change. On the other hand, when the filter medium 10 is deteriorated and the purification performance of the water purifier 6 is lowered and chlorine is not sufficiently removed, chlorine remains in the raw water passing through the filter 53, and this chlorine is carried on the filter 53. Reacts with the reagent being used, the color of the reagent changes. The change of the color of the reagent can notify the user of the replacement time of the water purifier 6.

It is a channel system figure showing an example of an embodiment of the invention. It is a channel system figure showing other examples of an embodiment of the invention. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows an example of a structure of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus corresponding to the structure shown in FIG. (A) And (b) is sectional drawing which shows an example of the mode of attachment / detachment with a cover body and a water purifier, (d) And (d) is sectional drawing which shows the other example of the state of attachment / detachment with a cover body and a water purifier. It is. (A) is sectional drawing which shows an example of the cover body which hold | maintained and fixed the water purifier, (b) is sectional drawing which shows an example of a tank main body, (d) is raw water formed by attaching the said cover body to the said tank main body. It is sectional drawing which shows a water storage tank. (A) is a front view which shows an example of the structure of the cover body which has a holding rib, (b) is sectional drawing of (a). (A) is a top view which shows an example of the cover body which has a desorption button, (b) And (c) is sectional drawing which shows the mode of attachment or detachment with the cover body and water purifier shown to (a). (A) thru | or (g) shows an example of the structure of the cover body and water purifier connected by a bayonet system, (a) is a front view of a cover body, (b) is sectional drawing of a cover body, c) is a bottom view of the lid, (d) is a plan view of the water purifier, (e) is a front view of the water purifier, (f) is a cross-sectional view of the water purifier, and (g) is holding the water purifier on the lid. It is sectional drawing which shows the state fixed. An example of the structure of the cover body and water purifier connected by screwing is shown, (a) And (b) is sectional drawing which shows the mode of attachment or detachment of a cover body and water purifier. (A) thru | or (d) is sectional drawing which shows an example of the process of hold | maintaining and fixing the water purifier accommodated in the protective container to a cover body. An example of the structure of a water purifier is shown, (a) is a top view, (b) is sectional drawing of front view, (c) is a bottom view. It is a schematic cross section which shows an example of the structure of the conventional water storage type electrolyzed water generating apparatus. It is a schematic cross section which shows an example of the structure of the conventional continuous electrolyzed water generating apparatus. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows an example of the structure of the conventional composite type electrolyzed water generating apparatus. It is a waterway system | strain diagram of a composite type electrolyzed water generating apparatus same as the above. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the other example of the structure of the conventional composite type electrolyzed water generating apparatus. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the further another example of the structure of the conventional composite type electrolyzed water generating apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Raw water storage tank 1a Tank main body 1b Cover body 2 Electrolytic tank 3a Cathode 3b Anode 4 Water supply path 6 Water purifier 7 Raw water inlet 8 Holding rib 9 Hole 10 Filter medium 20, 22 Water discharge path 54 Protective container

Claims (8)

  A raw water storage tank capable of storing raw water, an electrolytic tank equipped with a cathode and an anode, a water supply path for supplying raw water stored in the raw water storage tank to the electrolytic tank, and electrolytic water generated in the electrolytic tank to the outside In the electrolyzed water generating apparatus having a discharge water discharge path, the raw water storage tank is composed of a tank body that opens upward and a detachable lid that closes the upper opening of the tank body, and the raw water is supplied to the lid. An electrolyzed water generating apparatus characterized by holding and fixing a water purifier for purifying raw water stored in a water storage tank.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a raw water inlet that communicates the raw water storage tank and a water supply path is communicated with the water purifier.   The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the water purifier is detachably held and fixed to the lid.   The electrolyzed water generating device according to claim 3, wherein the lid body has a holding rib that can be fitted into the water purifier, and the holding rib has a plurality of holes that communicate with the water purifier.   5. The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the plurality of holes provided in the holding rib have a larger opening area as provided upward.   The water purifier is in a state of being accommodated in a protective container before being held and fixed to the lid, and when being held and fixed to the lid, the joint between the protective container and the lid of the water purifier is used. 6. The electrolyzed water according to claim 1, wherein the protective water container is removed from the water purifier after the water purifier is exposed and fixed to the lid at the joint. Generator.   The electrolyzed water generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the water purifier is formed of a filter medium and has a hollow structure.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the water purifier is formed of a filter medium, and the density of the filter medium is formed so that the density is reduced toward the upper side.

Images