JP2009085576A - Air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an air conditioner capable of efficiently disinfecting and resolving fungi and odorous components adhering to a specific portion of a complicated shape of a member constituting the air conditioner. <P>SOLUTION: This air conditioner includes a refrigeration cycle heat exchanger arranged on an air passage connecting a suction port and a blowout port, and an air fan arranged downstream of the heat exchanger and blowing out air temperature-adjusted by the heat exchanger. An antibacterial water producing section producing antibacterial water and a spray section misting the antibacterial water are provided in an indoor unit or an outdoor unit. The antibacterial water is sprayed and supplied to the air fan from an upstream space on the air passage. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an air conditioner having a function of automatically maintaining internal cleanliness, and mainly relates to a sterilization and deodorization mechanism inside the air conditioner.

  In a general air conditioner, an indoor unit and an outdoor unit are connected by a refrigerant pipe, and an indoor fan is provided to promote heat exchange between the indoor heat exchanger and the indoor air. Is sucked into the indoor unit, and the sucked indoor air is sent to the indoor heat exchanger to exchange heat, and the air after heat exchange is blown out again into the room.

  For this reason, microorganisms and dust floating in the air are sucked into the indoor unit together with the indoor air, and they adhere to the inner wall surface of the indoor unit, the indoor heat exchanger, etc., and mold, yeast, There is a problem that microorganisms such as bacteria grow using organic matter in dust as a nutrient source. In particular, after the cooling operation is stopped, the condensed water condensed in the indoor heat exchanger evaporates in the indoor unit, and the humidity inside the indoor unit becomes high and the relative humidity is close to 100% RH, so that the growth of mold is more. There is a problem of becoming. There are many types of fungi that grow inside the air conditioner indoor unit, which is a unique environment, such as tricosporin, black mold, black mold, blue mold, and black spider mold.

  In this way, when mold, bacteria, etc. grow, odors are generated by the metabolites, causing bad odor when the air conditioner is operating, and mold spores and bacteria may be blown out into the air-conditioned room. It is known to cause allergies and other harmful effects. In addition, when mold and fungi grow on the indoor heat exchanger, the resistance of the ventilation path becomes a resistance of the air conditioner.

  Therefore, in the conventional air conditioner, various techniques for sterilizing microorganisms that propagate on the heat exchanger (evaporator) have been disclosed. The method is one in which copper ion-containing water is sprayed on a heat exchanger (see, for example, Patent Document 1) or a solution in which active oxygen such as hydrogen peroxide is generated on the surface of the heat exchanger ( For example, see Patent Document 2.).

  Moreover, the thing using drying by heating operation (for example, refer patent document 3), the thing using the oxidizing power of ozone (for example, refer patent document 4), and apply | coating an anti-mold agent on the site | part surface. (For example, refer to Patent Document 5).

JP-A-5-147437 (page 2-5, Fig. 1) Japanese Patent Laying-Open No. 2005-308284 (page 6-9, FIG. 2) JP 2002-323250 A (page 4-6, FIG. 2) JP 2003-240313 A (page 2-5, FIG. 1) Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 5-248651 (page 2-3, FIG. 1)

  However, in the examples of the air conditioners disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the purpose is only to sterilize the heat exchanger or the drain pan, but the blower fan is not targeted. When cooling or dehumidifying operation is performed in which the indoor heat exchanger acts as an evaporator, the interior of the indoor unit generates condensed water and becomes high humidity. In addition, condensed air is generated in the blower fan as well, but unlike the heat exchanger, which is hydrophilic, the fan surface is generally made of hydrophobic material to prevent splashing of water droplets to the user. The water condensed on the blower fan is retained on the surface as water droplets. The retained water droplets are subjected to centrifugal force as the fan rotates and are collected at the blade tip portion on the outer peripheral side of the fan. On the other hand, 70% of the suspended solids in the home are fine dust particles, but the pre-filters installed on the windward side of the heat exchanger cannot be supplemented. It hits and adheres to the fan. There is a bias in the dust adhesion position, and the blade tip is remarkably many. Therefore, the tip of the blade accumulates dust and dust, and also collects water droplets. Therefore, the blade tip has high humidity and high nutrition, and is the most easily propagated mold. Further, in an air conditioner that is actually used mainly at home, a foreign substance development phenomenon is observed at the blade tip of the blower fan. Therefore, the number of mold spores per 1 cc of the part attached to the blower fan is 40 times higher than that of the heat exchanger, and in addition, the unit used for 10 years by the mycelium deposit blocking the wind passage of the blower fan, Compared to this, the air volume is reduced by about 30%, and the electricity bill is worsened by about 10%. Moreover, the odor index which a ventilation fan emits is the highest, and has become a big cause site | part of the off-flavor and allergen substance scattering in an air conditioner.

  Moreover, as another problem, when attaching sterilization action water to a specific site | part like patent document 1 and 2, although it adapts well to the site | part which shows hydrophilic property like a heat exchanger, for example, it is like a ventilation fan It is difficult for the sterilizing action water to adhere to the site showing hydrophobicity. In addition, even when sterilizing water adheres, there is a problem that the concentration of the sterilizing agent attached to the site is diminished by the dew condensation water originally attached to the site. In addition, even when there is an effect on mold due to the effect of the sterilizing action water, it is also a problem that the effect is insufficient with respect to the adhesion odor and the mold generation odor.

  In the examples of the air conditioners disclosed in Patent Documents 3 to 5, the effect on the blower fan is not limited to a maximum of about 40 ° C. even if a large effect is recognized in bacteria only by the drying operation. It was difficult to completely kill the mold because it did not rise, and there was a problem that growth started again when the relative humidity became high due to changes in the indoor environment. In addition, in order to prevent the growth due to ozone, the ozone concentration of 0.1 ppm or more of the working environment standard value is required, but due to the smell and danger of ozone in the actual indoor unit, it cannot be made high, There is a problem that growth inhibition ability is small. In addition, ozone and ions have a short lifetime and are in a gaseous state, so they do not stay in a predetermined position, and cannot be effectively targeted at a site where mold actually propagates. In addition, when an antifungal agent is applied, it is known that when the surface of the antifungal agent is covered with dust, the antifungal effect is minimized, and an effect on odor cannot be obtained.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and exhibits hydrophobicity inside an air conditioner including a heat exchanger, particularly a blower fan, and adheres to a specific part of a complicated shape. The first purpose is to provide an air conditioner that can efficiently sterilize and decompose fungi and odor components. The first purpose is to closely sterilize mold that grows in specific parts such as a blower fan with liquid, allergen substance scattering and air volume reduction It is to prevent an increase in power consumption due to the. The second purpose is to enhance the odor decomposition effect and sterilization effect of the sterilization action water, and to greatly reduce the odor of the wind coming out of the blowout mouth and the number of attached bacteria. The third purpose is to improve the sterilizing effect by concentrating the concentration of the sterilizing action water while improving the site adhesion amount of the sterilizing action water. It is also to prevent sterilization water from splashing to the outside.

  The air conditioner according to the present invention is provided with a heat exchanger disposed on an air passage connecting the suction port and the blowout port, and is provided in the downstream of the heat exchanger, and the temperature is adjusted by the heat exchanger. In an air conditioner equipped with a blower fan that blows out air, a disinfecting water generator that generates disinfecting water in an indoor unit or an outdoor unit, and a spray unit that forms the disinfecting water in a mist form The sterilizing water is sprayed and supplied to the blower fan.

  Moreover, the air conditioner according to the present invention has a higher vapor pressure than pure water in an air conditioner having a blower fan that circulates room air to a heat exchanger that is a condenser or an evaporator of a refrigeration cycle. A spray unit that sprays one or both of the heat exchanger and the blower fan as a sterilizing action water containing mixed components, and a humidifying mechanism that wets the air path inside the air conditioner, After the humidifying operation by the humidifying mechanism, the sterilizing water is sprayed, and then the sterilizing water sprayed is heated and evaporated.

  An air conditioner according to the present invention includes a heat exchanger disposed on an air passage connecting a suction port and a blowout port, and a wind whose temperature is adjusted by the heat exchanger provided in the downstream of the heat exchanger. In an air conditioner equipped with a blower fan that blows out, an indoor unit or an outdoor unit includes a disinfecting water generation unit that generates disinfecting water and a spray unit that forms a mist of the disinfecting water, Since the sterilizing action water is sprayed and supplied to the blower fan, the shape is complicated like the blade tip of the blower fan, the mold is biased to a specific part, and is a hydrophobic substance. In addition, the sterilizing action water can be selectively attached to the mold growth site, the sterilizing action water can be attached without waste, and the bactericidal effect can be obtained continuously for a long time.

  Moreover, the air conditioner according to the present invention has a higher vapor pressure than pure water in an air conditioner having a blower fan that circulates room air to a heat exchanger that is a condenser or an evaporator of a refrigeration cycle. A spray unit that sprays one or both of the heat exchanger and the blower fan as a sterilizing action water containing mixed components, and a humidifying mechanism that wets the air path inside the air conditioner, Since the sterilization water is sprayed after the humidification operation by the humidification mechanism, and the sprayed sterilization water is then evaporated by heating, even if it is a hydrophobic part, it dissolves in the already existing adhering water and is sterilized. Working water easily adheres, and when heated, sterilizing action water is a component with a higher vapor pressure than pure water, so water evaporates first and the sterilizing action water is concentrated and concentrated Increases the effect.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of an indoor unit according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the indoor unit, FIG. 3 is an enlarged sectional view of a conventional blower fan, and FIG. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of a new blower fan. It is. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the relationship between usage time and air volume when comparing the conventional example and the embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a sectional view of an electrolysis cell for generating sterilized water, and FIG. FIG. 8 and FIG. 8 are sterilization test results for the 24-hour treatment. FIG. 9 is the application position of the hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst or decomposition enzyme, FIG. 10 is an overall operation flowchart of the air conditioner, FIG. 11 is a detailed control flowchart of the internal clean operation, and FIG. It is a pressure curve figure.

  FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show the configuration of the main equipment of an air conditioner indoor unit. 1 is an indoor unit, 2 is an indoor heat exchanger, 3 is a prefilter, 4 is an ozone generator, and 5 is temperature and humidity. A blower outlet for blowing the adjusted air into the room, 6 is an indoor blower fan, 7a is a blower fan mist outlet disposed on the upstream side of the blower fan 6, and 7b is pre-fired on the upstream side of the air flow from the indoor heat exchanger 2. Mist outlet for heat exchanger arranged on the downstream side of the filter 3, 8 is an upper and lower flap that opens and closes the outlet 5 while changing the direction in which the heat exchanged air is blown up and down, and 9 is generated by the heat exchanger The drain water receiving part 10 is connected to the drain water receiving part 9 from the drain water receiving part 9 and has an electrolysis cell 20 inside, and 11 is generated by the sterilizing action water generating part 10. Spray to atomize liquid Reference numerals 12 and 12 denote a mist dedicated fan that mixes the mist generated in the spraying part 11 with the air and sends it to the indoor unit. Reference numeral 13 denotes a mist passage duct that connects the spraying part 11 and the mist outlets 7a and 7b.

  Usually, the air conditioner is composed of an outdoor unit (not shown) installed outdoors and an indoor unit 1 installed on the upper wall surface of the room that performs air conditioning, and is provided in the outdoor unit. The four-way valve, the outdoor heat exchanger, the expansion valve, and the indoor heat exchanger 2 provided in the indoor unit 1 are connected so as to form a refrigeration cycle, and the indoor unit can be switched by switching the refrigerant flow direction using the four-way valve. The room where 1 is installed can be cooled and heated. Each of the indoor heat exchangers 2 is a so-called fin tube heat exchanger composed of a plurality of aluminum fins and a copper pipe penetrating the fins in a meandering manner.

  Although not shown, each of the outdoor unit and the indoor unit 1 has an outdoor control unit in order to perform an operation in which the refrigerant circulates through the refrigeration cycle and the steps of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation are sequentially repeated. And an indoor controller are connected to each other by a signal transmission line. Furthermore, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit operate by exchanging control signals and data. However, the operation of the outdoor unit and the indoor unit is the same as that of the conventional method, and thus description thereof is omitted here.

  The indoor unit 1 is usually installed on a wall near the ceiling of a room that performs air conditioning, and is connected to the outdoor unit through a wall opening hole formed in the wall by a refrigerant pipe that is provided with a signal transmission line. Further, the indoor unit 1 has a longitudinal direction in the direction of the rotation axis in a main body case of a horizontally long casing in which an upper suction port (not shown) opening upward is formed in the upper part and a blower outlet 5 opening downward is formed in the lower part. An indoor blower fan 6 (generally referred to as a cross flow fan) is provided that rotates the horizontally long lateral flow blades rotated by an indoor fan motor (not shown). The indoor fan motor is capable of switching speeds in a plurality of stages, has high operating efficiency, and uses a DC motor that is highly stable even at low speeds, but may be an AC motor. Furthermore, a casing portion, which is an air passage for the indoor blower fan 6, is formed from an upper suction port serving as a room air suction port of the indoor unit 1 toward the air outlet 5. In addition, a temperature / humidity sensor is provided inside the indoor unit 1 to know the current temperature / humidity in the room.

  In addition, a pre-filter 3 is provided on the entire wind path so as to cover the indoor heat exchanger on the windward side of the indoor heat exchanger. Since the air flowing in from the air inlet of the indoor unit passes through the prefilter 3 and flows into the indoor heat exchanger 2, the indoor heat exchanger is protected by the prefilter against the outside of the indoor unit. The pre-filter 3 prevents the mist present in the air conditioner from flowing out of the indoor unit. For example, the prefilter 3 is formed by attaching a sheet knitted in a mesh shape with resin fibers to a frame material. The prefilter 3 removes dust and dirt contained in the air sucked from the upper suction port and prevents the indoor heat exchanger 2 from becoming dirty. In addition, since the pre-filter 3 adheres to the pre-filter 3 by this operation and becomes dirty, it is necessary for the user to periodically clean it. However, recently, a mechanism (not shown) that automatically removes dust and dirt from the filter may be provided.

  Although not shown, a drain pan for collecting and discharging condensed water is provided at the lower part of the indoor heat exchanger 2. On the other hand, the air outlet 5 is formed as an air outlet opening / closing mechanism that opens and closes the air outlet 5, and a flap 8 that is elongated in the left-right direction and whose left and right ends are pivotally supported is vertically moved by a flap motor (not shown). The air outlet 5 can be opened and closed by rotating the flap 8. Further, the outlet 5 is closed by closing and turning the flap 8.

As shown in the longitudinal sectional view of the indoor unit in FIG. 1, the sterilizing action water generating unit 10 and the spraying unit 11 are stored in the indoor unit.
The inside of the indoor unit 1 near the side surface includes a sterilization action water generation unit 10 (hereinafter referred to as a generation unit), and can automatically generate sterilization action water inside the indoor unit. The raw material for the sterilization water is only water and oxygen, and the water is drain water condensed on the heat exchanger. Of course, water may be supplied using a sterilizing water or a tank provided with water separately, but it is suitable as non-water supply in view of the trouble of water supply. In this configuration, the generator 10 shown in the figure is inside the indoor unit. However, the sterilized water generated by installing the generator 10 in the outdoor unit is atomized or vaporized and transported indoors using a duct or the like. May be. In that case, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit are connected by a duct or a hose to form a transport path, and a sirocco fan or a pump is used as power for moving the sterilized water. Considering the workability, it is better to connect the indoor unit and the outdoor unit through the same hole as the refrigerant pipe connecting the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. The spray unit 11 is provided as a means for providing the indoor unit with sterilization action water stored from the water supply system or water obtained by the adsorption / desorption process of a hygroscopic agent such as zeolite or silica. Provided for indoor units.

  The spray unit 11 uses an ultrasonic element that transmits vibration energy having a resonance frequency of 40 kHz to 2400 kHz to water by a vibrator for the purpose of atomizing the sterilizing water and blowing it out over a wide range. This energy lifts the water column, ruptures the water film, and becomes the power to atomize the water, and the atomized water has a particle size of about 0.01 to 100 microns. In particular, if a low-frequency element of 40 kHz to 110 kHz is used, it can be driven at a low energy of about 1 Wh, the circuit can be simplified, and there is no fear of breakage even in the absence of water, so that handling is easy. On the other hand, if a high-frequency ultrasonic element of about 1700 kHz to 2400 kHz is used, finer particles of 10 μm or less can be obtained, but power consumption of about 40 Wh is required, and a water level sensor etc. is required. Since the purpose of the spray section is to atomize water, as another method, the stored water is contacted with a discharge device to which a high voltage of direct current or alternating current is applied, or electrostatic atomization, or an orifice A method of atomizing and blowing out using a connected spray nozzle may be used.

  As a method of spraying the sterilizing action water over the entire heat exchanger 2 and the blower fan 6, a duct 13 formed of a resin or metal pipe is connected to the spray unit 11 and a blower circuit separate from the air-conditioning blower fan 6. The mist outlets 7a and 7b, which are the tip portions of the duct 13, are directed horizontally in a configuration in which the wind obtained by the mist dedicated fan 12 provided in the above is combined and sent to the tip side of the duct. Since a cross-flow fan is used as the air-conditioning blower fan 6, it can diffuse only in the vertical direction so that air flows from the upper suction port to the lower blow-off port. The sterilizing water sprayed from the duct tip at a wind speed of 5 m / s to 2.0 m / s is widely dispersed in the horizontal direction of the air conditioner (rotational axis direction of the cross flow fan). Moreover, since it can spray even if the air-conditioning blower fan 6 is stopped, it can be used safely without sterilizing water being diffused into the room.

  The mist-like sterilizing water sprayed in the air path of the indoor unit has a structure composed of staggered copper pipes through which the heat exchangers 2 are laminated at predetermined intervals, and therefore forced When there is no typical air flow, it is difficult for the heat exchanger to pass from the front surface to the back surface (direction passing by the air flow), so the outlet of the duct 13 connected to the spray unit 11 is the mist outlet for the blower fan 7a and the heat exchanger mist outlet 7b are arranged separately and spraying can be performed simultaneously. The outlet portion of the duct 13 led to the blower fan side space, that is, the blower fan mist outlet 7a is provided on the outer peripheral shape of the duct 13 on the hairpin-shaped pipe fixing member that holds the heat exchanger 2 and forms the air passage wall surface. Since it is sprayed in the space between the back surface (downstream side of the air flow) of the heat exchanger 2 and the blower fan 6, it is easy to adhere to the blower fan 6. Further, the duct 13 is branched in the longitudinal direction of the indoor unit, and outlets are provided at the left end and the right end, so that even adhesion to the end surface is possible. Moreover, since the mist is sprayed not only from the left end of the heat exchanger but also from the right end toward the center, it is necessary to disinfect parts such as an electrical component box located further to the right than the heat exchanger 2. There is no spraying.

  And the sterilization action water sprayed inside the indoor unit 1 is a place where it is easy to hold water on the front end of the aluminum fin of the heat exchanger 2 and the tip of the blade, the positive pressure surface and the negative pressure surface of the blower fan 6. It moves and adheres preferentially to the site where water tends to collect depending on its shape. This is due to the effect that the sterilizing agent is a liquid, the shape is complicated like the blade tip of the blower fan 6, the occurrence of mold is biased to a specific part, and the material of the blower fan is hydrophobic. Even if it is a substance to be shown, sterilizing action water can be selectively attached to the mold growth site. Therefore, the sterilization water can be adhered without waste, and it has the advantage of providing a sterilizing effect continuously for a long time by utilizing the liquid having a long adhesion staying time.

FIG. 3 shows the state of a conventional blower fan when hyphae (shaded portion) is embedded in the blade tip after aged use, and FIG. 4 shows the state of a new blower fan. At the start of use of the air conditioner, as shown in FIG. 4, it is a blower fan with no deposit on the surface of the blade, but after the dust adheres, mold mycelia grow around the blade tip as shown in FIG. Become. FIG. 5 is a characteristic diagram showing the change over time in the air volume at the same rotational speed of the blower fan, where the vertical axis represents the air volume [m3 / min] and the horizontal axis represents the operation time [hr]. As shown in FIG. 5, in the present invention, the fungus is continuously sterilized and the growth of hyphae that blocks the air passage of the blower fan 6 is suppressed, so that it is used for 10 years, compared with the initial state. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease of about 30% in the air volume and a deterioration of about 10% in the electricity bill (comparison between the dotted line display in the present invention and the solid line display in the conventional example). Moreover, since the disinfecting water to be sprayed is an aqueous solution, not only fungi such as mold and bacteria, but also harmful substances and odors, such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, NO ₂ , SO ₂ , dioxin, ammonia, which are the cause of sick house syndrome It is possible to dissolve and remove water-soluble harmful gases.

  As another mist diffusion method, if it is an air conditioner provided with a moving means of the spray unit 11 that can be moved back and forth in the width direction of the indoor unit (the rotational axis direction of the cross flow fan that is a blower fan), spraying appropriately Since the sterilization action water can be provided while moving the part 11, the sterilization action water can be sprayed to the ends of the blower fan, the heat exchanger and the like disposed in the air path of the indoor unit. The moving means may be used in combination with a filter cleaning mechanism that removes dust accumulated on the prefilter by moving in a plane or three-dimensionally in the vertical and horizontal directions along the prefilter. Of course, you may use only the diffusing force of the spray apparatus which can adjust the output of ejection amount.

  The sterilizing water is a hydrogen peroxide solution that is liquid at room temperature and has a strong oxidizing action. The oxidation potential of hydrogen peroxide is as high as 1.77 V, and is generally known as a disinfectant under the name of oxidol. In addition, it is odorless and easy to handle. The hydrogen peroxide solution is a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide, and the hydrogen peroxide concentration is preferably in the range of 0.001% to 0.1% or less. Effective sterilization effect is not observed when the content is 0.001% or less, and aluminum or copper, which is a material for forming the heat exchanger 2, due to its strong oxidization effect when the content is 0.1% or more. This is because the film may be corroded and attacked.

  As shown in the sectional view of the electrolysis cell for generating sterilized water in FIG. 6, the sterilized water generator 10 is provided with an electrolytic cell 20, which is an electrolyte membrane having hydrogen ion conductivity. A polymer electrolyte membrane 21, an anode electrode 22 disposed so as to be in contact with one surface across the polymer electrolyte membrane 21, and a cathode electrode 24 disposed so as to be in contact with the other surface. ing. Further, an anode terminal 23 is attached to the anode electrode 22, and a cathode terminal 25 is attached to the cathode electrode 24. The polymer electrolyte membrane 21, the anode electrode 22, and the cathode electrode 24 are fixed with screws through a watertight sheet. An anode water storage section 26 is provided on the anode side of the electrolysis cell 20 and a cathode water storage section 27 is provided on the cathode side. A storage container in which a part of the water condensed in the indoor heat exchanger 2 flows is stored. The sterilizing action water generator is configured. In addition, you may make it supply the water supplied not only from drain water but from the outside directly.

A DC power source is connected to the anode terminal 23 and the cathode terminal 25, and the electrolytic cell 20 is operated while a DC voltage of 1.5 to 10 V is applied between the positive and negative electrodes continuously or intermittently. The water collected in the anode storage unit 26 passes through the anode electrode 22 and contacts the polymer electrolyte membrane 21. Then, water is absorbed by the polymer electrolyte membrane 21 and diffuses and is retained in the polymer electrolyte membrane 21. In the anode electrode 22, the supplied water is divided into oxygen (O ₂ ) and hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) as shown in the reaction formula (1). When a voltage is applied by a DC power supply, a current flows and oxygen molecules are generated from the surface of the anode electrode 22.
Anode: 2H ₂ O → O ₂ + 4H ⁺ + 4e ⁻ (1)
The polymer electrolyte membrane 21 is made of a material that does not transmit gas, is electrically insulating, and conducts only water and hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ), for example, a perfluorosulfonic acid membrane. When a gas containing O ₂ ) and water (H ₂ O) are supplied, hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) conducted from the anode electrode 22 reaching the interface with the polymer electrolyte membrane 21 on the cathode electrode 24, and A reducing substance caused by hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) reacts with oxygen gas (O ₂ ), and hydrogen peroxide (H ₂ O ₂ ) is generated by a reduction reaction represented by the following reaction formula (2). The aqueous solution containing hydrogen peroxide is stored in the cathode storage unit 27 and the concentration increases as time passes.
Cathode: O ₂ + 2H ⁺ + 2e ⁻ → H ₂ O ₂ (2)
At the same time, the reaction formula (3) in which oxygen (O ₂ ) is further reduced and water (H ₂ O) is generated at the cathode electrode 24 and the hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) are directly reduced, so that hydrogen (H ₂ ) is converted. Since the generated reaction formula (4) also proceeds, it cannot be used under a high voltage of 10 V or higher.
Cathode: O ₂ + 4H ⁺ + 4e ⁻ → 2H ₂ O (3)
2H ⁺ + 2e ⁻ → H ₂ (4)

If the water supplied to the anode side contains cations caused by metal ions such as calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and potassium (K), the hydrogen ions inside the polymer electrolyte membrane 21 are cations. Therefore, it is preferable to install an ion exchange filter. Whether supplying liquid water directly or supplying fine water, it is preferable to use ion-exchanged water or ultrapure water. If it is tap water, it can be used if it is water from which calcite, trihalomethane, etc. have been removed with a filter or the like, and its electric conductivity is 5 μScm ⁻¹ or less. The case where a perfluorosulfonic acid membrane is used as the polymer electrolyte membrane 21 has been described, but any material that does not transmit gas, has electrical insulation, and conducts only moisture and hydrogen ions may be used. A benzimidazole-based ion exchange membrane, a polybenzoxazole-based ion exchange membrane, a polyarylene ether-based ion exchange membrane, or the like can also be used. At this time, about 2 to 6 times the number of water molecules contained in the polymer electrolyte membrane 21 is used. When phosphoric acid molecules are added, hydrogen ion conductivity is increased and the production efficiency of hydrogen peroxide is improved.

The anode electrode 22 is composed of a base material and an oxidation catalyst that promotes the oxidation reaction of water. The base material is a cloth (radius) having a density of 200 g / cm ^{2 made} of a sintered body of titanium (Ti) metal fibers. 50 mm, thickness of 300 μm) or an expanded metal having a mesh structure made of titanium. The anode electrode 22 is formed by plating platinum (Pt) or iridium oxide (IrO ₂ ) at a density of 0.25 to 2.0 mg / cm ^{2 on} the surface of the substrate in contact with the polymer electrolyte membrane 21. Moreover, the cathode electrode 24 is comprised from the reduction catalyst which accelerates | stimulates the reduction reaction of a carbon-type base material and oxygen. As the carbon-based substrate, carbon fiber having a radius of 50 mm and a thickness of 200 μm (fiber diameter of about 5 to 50 μm, porosity 50 to 80%) is used. A layer in which the carbon powder and the polymer electrolyte are mixed is formed on the surface of the carbon fiber in contact with the polymer electrolyte membrane 21. Specifically, a solution in which carbon powder and a polymer electrolyte (perfluorosulfonic acid) are dispersed is mixed at a weight ratio of 10: 1 to 1:10, applied at 30 to 500 μm, and then at 50 ° C. under vacuum. And dried to form a reduction catalyst layer (mixed layer) (not shown). In addition to carbon fibers, as a substrate, carbon nanofibers (thickness 10 to 100 nm), graphite or graphite with an alkali metal inserted between layers, single-walled or multi-walled carbon nanotubes (thickness 10 nm or less), fibrous Activated carbon or particulate activated carbon may be used.

  The anode terminal 23 and the cathode terminal 25 are used by processing a titanium plate and a carbon plate in a lattice shape so as not to corrode and to decompose the generated hydrogen peroxide solution again. The anode terminal 23 and the cathode terminal 25 are sandwiched between cases and fixed together with the electrolytic cell 20. A part of the voltage applied between the anode electrode 22 and the cathode electrode 24 is lost as Joule heat in the contact resistance or the polymer electrolyte membrane 21, and the temperature of the polymer electrolyte membrane 21, the anode electrode 22 or the cathode electrode 24 is increased. Let When the temperature rise is remarkable, the polymer electrolyte membrane 21 is denatured or deformed and the anode electrode 22, the cathode electrode 24 and the polymer electrolyte membrane 21 are peeled off, which is not desirable. Therefore, heat generation can be suppressed by intermittently turning on and off the applied voltage. Specifically, it is desirable to operate at an ON time of about 0.2 to 5 times with an OFF time of 1 at intervals of 1 to 30 minutes. Moreover, if energy is given only to hydrogen ions by applying a pulsed voltage, loss due to heat can be suppressed. In such a case, it is preferable to turn on and off by continuously applying a pulse voltage of about 1 μsec to 10 msec.

  The sterilization action water is hydrogen peroxide water to make a non-water supply structure using drain water generated by air conditioning operation of the air conditioner, but when tap water can be connected and chloride ions can be obtained, Even if hypochlorous acid water (oxidation potential 1.49V) is used, it similarly has a sterilizing action. At that time, it can be automatically generated by the electrolytic cell structure.

  The blower fan 6 is a cross flow fan (cross-flow blower), and includes a blade tip portion 32, a positive pressure portion 33, and a negative pressure portion 34 as shown in a sectional shape in FIG. Fiber dust having a length of about 0.5 to 1.5 mm hardly adheres to the blower fan 6, but sand dust having a particle size of about 1.0 to 10 μm is remarkably attached due to a collision force at the time of air flow introduction. The portions are biased toward the blade tip side of the blade tip portion 32 and the positive pressure portion 33, and the adhesion to the negative pressure portion 34 is extremely small. Since the mold grows using the adhered dust as a hotbed, the mycelium develops from the blade tip 32 and eventually fills the space where the air flows between the blades (state shown in FIG. 3). While antibacterial action water can be expected to kill fungi on the blower fan 6, when using a low concentration hydrogen peroxide solution with a concentration of 0.001 to 0.01%, Is not effective enough.

Accordingly, in order to further enhance the effect, it is preferable to use a hydroxy radical by decomposition with hydrogen peroxide in combination with ozone. When hydrogen peroxide reacts with ozone, it generates hydroxy radicals together with oxygen and water according to the following reaction formula (5).
2H ₂ O ₂ + O ₃ → 2.OH + 2O ₂ + H ₂ O (5)
In the indoor unit 1, an ozone generation unit 4 is provided in the same space of the air path separately from the hydrogen peroxide generation unit 10. In consideration of cost and performance, a discharge type or an ultraviolet type is used for the ozone generation. The ultraviolet ray type is a method for producing ozone from oxygen by ultraviolet rays of 250 nm or less emitted from an ultraviolet lamp. In the discharge type, a high voltage of 2000 to 7000V, which is a 12V system of an air conditioner boosted by a high-voltage transformer, is applied between the electrodes, discharge is generated between the electrodes, and oxygen molecules are dissociated by electrons released into the space. This is a method of making ozone by combining oxygen atoms and oxygen molecules. As the discharge method, there are a corona discharge method, a creeping discharge method, a silent discharge method and the like depending on the form of discharge. In an air conditioner, a corona discharge type or a creeping discharge type is often used in consideration of cost and compactness.

  However, the creeping discharge method uses the discharge phenomenon that occurs at the part where the dielectric surface and metal are in contact (creeping surface). Therefore, when the dielectric surface is wet under high humidity, the discharge is not stable and stable. There is a problem that ozone cannot be generated. On the other hand, the corona discharge type is a discharge that occurs when a high voltage is applied between the electrodes, and it can generate a relatively stable discharge by sufficiently supporting the insulation even under high humidity. Can be generated. As an electrode structure, a needle and a fine wire are used for the high-voltage electrode, and a plate (including a plate with a hole) and a wire mesh are used for the ground electrode. Therefore, when performing ozone treatment in the presence of humidity immediately after the unit is stopped as in the present invention, it is effective to use a corona discharge electrode. In order to diffuse ozone widely, it is desirable to install a large number of needles at fine intervals in the transverse direction according to the shape of the indoor unit and the wind path form, but the force of the ion wind or the blower fan 6 with the needles directed horizontally. Alternatively, it may be diffused in the horizontal direction by a mist dedicated fan 12 provided separately. However, since these forces are very small, it is performed with the blower fan 6 stopped.

  Furthermore, as the voltage waveform to be applied, there are direct current, alternating current, pulse wave, etc., but since ozone generation is determined by the input power, basically it does not depend on the waveform, but when using direct current voltage, Even with the same input power, the negative polarity can generate ozone more efficiently. In an air conditioner, when ozone is generated and the flap of the outlet is closed and short circuit operation is performed, it is easy to reach the whole indoor unit. In recent air conditioners, electric dust collectors and air purifiers (deodorizers, etc.) are installed, and if they use discharge, they can be used as ozone generators. Needless to say. However, since the electrostatic precipitator and the air cleaner purify the air by introducing dirty air into the device, it is inevitable that the discharge electrode becomes dirty. When the electrode becomes dirty, the discharge is not stable, which causes a problem that ozone cannot be stably generated. Therefore, in order to perform stable ozone treatment, it is more effective in terms of safety and performance to provide a dedicated ozone generator.

  FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are diagrams showing the effects when ozone (oxidation potential 2.07 V) and hydrogen peroxide solution (1.77 V) are used in combination. FIG. 7 shows the odor removal effect in a treatment time of 20 minutes when geosmin (mold odor) and 1-octen-3ol (mushroom odor) are used as representative odors. Oxidation effect of hydroxy radical (oxidation potential 2.80V) can decompose and remove odorous substances that could not be removed by hydrogen peroxide alone or ozone alone. Can be lowered. FIG. 8 shows the sterilization effect when black mold is used. Compared with hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) alone or ozone (O 3) alone, the sterilization effect is increased by an order of magnitude after 24 hours when used in combination (H 2 O 2 + O 3). In addition, with respect to the initial value, the effect of two orders of magnitude reduction is obtained with hydrogen peroxide + ozone.

As another hydroxy radical generating means, hydrogen peroxide decomposition action can be used. FIG. 9 shows the position of the hydrogen peroxide decomposition coating 35 provided on the blade 30 of the blower fan. As shown in this figure, a hydrogen peroxide decomposition coating 35 is provided on the blade tip portion and the positive pressure portion of the blade 30. Catalase which is a catalyst or decomposing enzyme of at least one of manganese, iron, titanium and copper having an action of decomposing hydrogen peroxide is present on the surface in the vicinity of the blade tip 32 where airflow hits and mold is likely to occur. It is coated. Of course, you may coat the whole ventilation fan 6. FIG. As the hydrogen peroxide adhering to the blade 30 is decomposed, hydroxy radicals having a very strong oxidizing power are generated in the hydrogen peroxide decomposition coating portion 35 by the following reaction formula (6).
H ₂ O ₂ + O ₂ → 2.OH + O ₂ (6)
Even at a low concentration of hydrogen peroxide, the bactericidal effect is enhanced by the hydroxyl radical generated by the hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst or enzyme. Further, since oxygen bubbles are also generated on the hydrogen peroxide decomposition coating 35 which is a catalyst, a dirt decomposition effect can be expected by specializing in the fan blade tip 32. Since hydrogen peroxide has a low concentration and hydroxy radicals have a short life, the influence on the outside of the air conditioner can be ignored.

  Next, the operation of the air conditioner will be described. The outdoor unit 1 includes a microcomputer (C.P.U) (not shown). P. The operation control described below is executed based on the contents programmed in advance in U or the contents set prior to the operation.

  The operation will be described using the flowchart of the air conditioner operation control of FIG. Turn on the main power supply to prepare for operation. The operation button for starting and stopping the operation of the air conditioner is operated using a remote controller (control setting device). Subsequently, an operation mode is selected and a desired operation mode is set. Typical operation modes include a cooling mode, a heating mode, and a dehumidifying mode. As a result, the air conditioner starts operation in a desired operation mode. The operation so far is the same as that of a conventional air conditioner.

  Next, the operation when stopping the air conditioner will be described. When cooling or dehumidification is selected on the remote control and the operation is started, if the refrigerant circulates through the refrigerant circuit and the heat exchanger 2 reaches the dew point or less, the heat exchanger 2 is condensed and water is generated. Raw water (in this case, condensed water) is induced in each of the anode and the negative electrode of the working water generation unit 10. Here, it is determined whether the internal clean mode or the selection mode is not present, and when the internal clean mode is selected, the electrolytic cell 20 provided in the sterilization action water generation unit 10 has a voltage of 1.5 to 10 V. Is given. Therefore, the generation of sterilizing water is continuously continued during the cooling or dehumidifying operation, and the concentration is increased. When the desired production time is reached, the energization of the electrolysis cell is stopped and the production process is stopped and stored. When there is no selection mode, no voltage is applied to the electrolysis cell. When it is confirmed on the remote control that the operation mode has been stopped, it is determined whether or not the previous operation mode is a cooling or dehumidifying operation mode. To stop the air conditioner. On the other hand, if it is determined that the cooling or dehumidifying operation has been performed, it is determined whether the internal clean mode or the selection mode is not performed. If the internal clean mode is selected, the internal clean operation process is executed. . However, before starting the internal clean operation process, it is determined whether the desired sterilization water generation time has been reached, and if it has reached, the process proceeds to the sterilization water spray operation process, but the generation time has not been reached. Only perform the air blowing and drying operation to make it stop. If there is no selection mode, the air conditioner is stopped as it is.

  Since the basic control is performed as described above, the air conditioner can perform normal cooling operation, heating operation, dehumidification operation, and internal clean operation as described below after cooling operation or dehumidification operation. The processing can be automatically performed by selecting and setting the operation mode in advance. In addition, since it is possible to select and set such operation modes, it is possible to cope with the concern that the internal clean operation processing will continue to be performed even though the operation is stopped. However, it is possible to select not to perform these processes.

  Next, the operation of the internal clean operation according to the present invention will be described. That is, the operation mode of the clean process in the case where the internal clean mode is set as the operation mode after the cooling operation or the dehumidifying operation and the concentration of the sterilizing water is sufficient will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Here, operating the internal clean operation is effective when the immediately preceding operation mode is cooling or dehumidification. This is because drain water can be collected only in the cooling or dehumidifying mode, and the relative humidity of the air channel space inside the indoor unit is close to 100% RH only during cooling or dehumidifying, and mold is generated. This is because it is easy, and in the case of a hydrophobic part such as the blower fan 6, the sterilizing action water hardly adheres in a dry state, and thus the surface needs to be wetted. If the indoor unit is in a wet state by the humidifying mechanism, that is, the water is biased to a place where water is likely to collect, and when the sterilizing water is sprayed, it is selectively preferentially adhered. In the present invention, the humidifying mechanism is the dew condensation water of the heat exchanger 2, it is determined whether the operation immediately before the internal clean operation is a cooling or dehumidifying operation, and a state in which no humidity reduction occurs immediately after the stop, that is, Bactericidal action water is sprayed in a state where moisture remains in each part of the air conditioning air passage.

  In addition, in order to use sterilization action water when the inside of the air path of the indoor unit 1 is not a wet surface, you may provide a humidification mechanism separately. In that case, heater type humidifier, ultrasonic type humidifier, liquid spray humidifier, vaporization type humidifier, osmotic membrane type humidifier, etc. can be used, and the liquid is likely to adhere to parts such as the blower fan. can do.

  When the indoor unit 1 stops, the flap 8 of the air outlet is moved to the position of the dotted line, and the air outlet 5 in the indoor unit 1 is closed. Subsequently, the spray unit 11 and the mist dedicated fan 12 are operated, and the sterilized water is supplied to the blower fan 6 or the heat exchanger 2 as mist. At that time, the operation time is set for about 10 to 20 minutes of the time limit timer for the sterilization water operation process, and the timer is started. Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed, and when the predetermined time has elapsed, the spray unit 11 and the mist dedicated fan 12 are stopped.

  Here, there is a concern that the concentration of the sterilizing action water is lowered by the dissolution of the sterilizing action water in the moisture previously attached by the humidifying mechanism. Therefore, the heating operation is continuously started to concentrate. The sterilizing action water uses a component having a lower vapor pressure at the same temperature than that of pure water. Therefore, when heat is applied, the concentration is increased by evaporating from the water first. In the present invention, a substance having a higher vapor pressure than water is used as sterilizing action water. As an example, FIG. 12 shows a vapor pressure curve in the case of hydrogen peroxide (solid line) and water (dotted line). It has been shown that hydrogen peroxide water has a vapor pressure of about 1/10 of water and is difficult to evaporate. By this heating operation, a concentration action for increasing the concentration is given, and the sterilizing effect can be enhanced. The concentration can be adjusted by the refrigerant pipe temperature in heating and the heating operation time. In addition, autolysis of hydrogen peroxide can be expected at the same time by heating, and hydroxyl radical generation and bubble generation occur temporarily, so that the bactericidal effect can be enhanced.

  The heating operation is performed by setting an operation time of 10 minutes or less of the time limit timer, starting the timer, determining whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed, and stopping when the predetermined time has elapsed. Since the temperature and humidity of the room may increase due to the heating operation, the user may feel uncomfortable. At the same time, the fluctuation of the temperature and humidity is measured, and if the fluctuation exceeds a predetermined value, the heating is stopped.

  In addition, although not shown, it is possible to completely evaporate the sterilizing water by performing heating at a higher temperature to prevent scattering to the outside of the indoor unit. In this case, the heating temperature is increased or the heating time is lengthened as compared with the heating for obtaining the concentration effect. At that time, since the degree of dryness can be estimated by measuring the pipe temperature, if the pipe temperature is taken as a threshold value and becomes a predetermined temperature or more, it may be determined that the pipe is completely dry and may be stopped. Specifically, when the concentration effect is given, the piping temperature is suppressed to about 35 to 50 ° C. because the piping is dry, but when it is completely dried, the temperature exceeds 55 ° C. It is more effective to use a two-stage heating method in which once heated and concentrated sterilizing action water is allowed to stand for a certain period of time to obtain sterilization and deodorizing action, then heating is performed again. Further, after heating, a blowing operation is performed for 1 minute or more in order to remove condensation on a flap or the like.

  In the above-described control method, the case where the hydrogen peroxide solution is sprayed alone has been described. In addition to the hydrogen peroxide solution spray, the operation during the combined use of ozone will be described. When this ozone is used together, the ozone generation operation is performed after spraying hydrogen peroxide. At this time, an operation time of about 10 minutes is set for a time limit timer (not shown) of the ozone generator, and the timer is started. Then, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has passed, and when the predetermined time has passed, the generation of ozone is stopped. Hydroxy radicals are efficiently generated by generating ozone and contacting it after spraying hydrogen peroxide. Note that there is no particular problem even if ozone is always generated, and it is important that the ozone is generated after the spraying operation of hydrogen peroxide is stopped. When a hydroxyl radical is generated using a hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst or a decomposing enzyme, the reaction takes place at the time when the hydrogen peroxide solution adheres, so that control is not necessary.

  Thereby, when the air conditioner is operated, the internal clean operation can be automatically executed, and there is an effect that the generation of mold in the indoor unit and the adhesion of odorous substances can be prevented constantly. Therefore, it is possible to continuously supply clean air-conditioned air to the user without bothering the user (maintaining maintenance-free operation), thereby improving the user's satisfaction. Moreover, since the state close to the initial state can be automatically maintained, the attached matter does not become air resistance and increase power consumption.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
The difference between the second embodiment of the present invention and the first embodiment is that not only cooling and dehumidification but also sterilization water can be sprayed during heating operation. In the first embodiment, the generator 10 shown in the figure is in the indoor unit. However, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the generator 10 is installed in the outdoor unit in order to operate the sterilization action even in the heating mode. The sterilized water is atomized or vaporized and transported indoors. In that case, the outdoor unit and the indoor unit are connected by a duct or a hose to form a sterilizing water transport path, and a sirocco fan or pump is used as power for sterilizing water movement. Considering the workability, it is better to connect the indoor unit and the outdoor unit through the same hole as the refrigerant pipe connecting the indoor unit and the outdoor unit. As the raw material for sterilization action water, water obtained in the adsorption / desorption process performed while rotating a hygroscopic agent such as zeolite or silica can be used to secure water even in winter, and it is configured with no water supply. it can. The hygroscopic agent is divided into an adsorption part and a desorption part using a heater, each adsorbs outdoor moisture by passing air, and releases the collected moisture to obtain raw water.

  As described above, the internal clean mechanism of the present invention has a sterilizing substance that is liquid, so that the shape is complicated like the blade tip of the blower fan, the mold growth site is biased to a specific site, and is hydrophobic. Even if it is a substance which shows, germicidal action water can be selectively made to adhere to the place where water collects. Therefore, there is an advantage that the sterilizing water can be adhered without waste, and the sterilizing effect is continuously provided for a long time by utilizing the liquid having a long staying time. At the same time, since it is an aqueous solution, harmful substances consisting of water-soluble gas and adhering odor can be easily removed.

  Furthermore, the internal clean mechanism of the present invention sprays the wetted part once wetted by the humidifying mechanism even if it is sterilizing action water that does not adhere easily during drying. Dissolves and easily disinfects water. In addition, since the sterilization action water is a component having a higher vapor pressure than pure water, the sterilization action water is concentrated from the relationship of the vapor pressure and the sterilization effect is enhanced by heating the heat exchanger. In addition, autolysis of hydrogen peroxide can be expected at the same time by heating, and hydroxyl radical generation and bubble generation occur temporarily, so that the bactericidal effect can be enhanced. Eventually, it is possible to completely evaporate and prevent scattering to the outside of the indoor unit.

  Furthermore, the internal clean mechanism of this invention generates hydroxyl radicals with a high oxidizing effect by reacting hydrogen peroxide with ozone, so it eliminates odors and mold odors that were not effective with hydrogen peroxide and ozone alone. In addition, the sterilization effect itself is enhanced. In addition, by applying a hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst or decomposing enzyme to the blade tip where the fan fan mold tends to grow, hydroxy radicals are similarly generated on the catalyst. It has the effect that an effect can be heightened.

It is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the indoor unit in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a perspective view of the indoor unit in Embodiment 1 of this invention. FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a conventional blower fan according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. It is a cross-sectional enlarged view of the blower fan in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a relationship figure of use time at the time of comparing the prior art example and an Example in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing of the electrolysis cell for germicidal action water generation in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an air-conditioner odor removal test result figure in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a sterilization test result figure at the time of the 24-hour process in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows the application position of the hydrogen peroxide decomposition | disassembly catalyst or decomposition enzyme in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a whole operation | movement flowchart of the air conditioner in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a detailed control flowchart of the internal clean operation in Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the vapor pressure curve figure of the disinfection action water and water in Embodiment 1 of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Indoor unit, 2 Heat exchanger, 3 Pre filter, 4 Ozone generator, 5 Air outlet, 6 Blower fan, 7a Blower fan outlet, 7b Heat exchanger outlet, 8 Upper and lower flaps, 9 Drain water receiving part , 10 sterilization action water generation part, 11 spraying part, 12 mist dedicated fan, 13 duct, 20 electrolysis cell, 21 polymer electrolyte membrane, 22 anode electrode, 23 anode terminal, 24 cathode electrode, 25 cathode terminal, 26 anode storage water Part, 27 cathode storage part, 30 blade, 31 lump of fungus, 32 blade tip part, 33 positive pressure part, 34 negative pressure part.

Claims (7)

A heat exchanger disposed on an air passage connecting the suction port and the blowout port, and a blower fan that is provided downstream of the heat exchanger and blows out the temperature-controlled wind by the heat exchanger. The air conditioner includes a sterilization water generator that generates sterilization water in an indoor unit or an outdoor unit, and a spray unit that forms the sterilization water in a mist form, and the sterilization water is blown An air conditioner characterized by being sprayed and supplied to a fan. In an air conditioner having a blower fan that circulates room air to a heat exchanger that serves as a condenser or evaporator of a refrigeration cycle, mixed water containing a component having a higher vapor pressure than pure water is used as sterilization action water A spray section for spraying either or both of the heat exchanger and the blower fan, and a humidifying mechanism that wets the air path of the air conditioner, and the sterilizing action water after the humidifying operation by the humidifying mechanism The air conditioner is characterized in that the sterilizing action water sprayed thereafter is heated and evaporated. The disinfecting water generating unit for generating the disinfecting water is an electrolysis cell comprising a polymer electrolyte membrane having hydrogen ion conductivity sandwiched between an anode electrode and a cathode electrode between the anode water storage unit and the cathode water storage unit. The air conditioner according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a storage container is configured to supply dew condensation water from the heat exchanger to the anode water reservoir and the cathode water reservoir. A low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution having a concentration of 0.1% or less is used as the sterilizing action water, and an ozone generator for generating ozone to be brought into contact with the hydrogen peroxide solution is provided inside the air passage of the air conditioner, The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein ozone is generated by the ozone generator simultaneously with or after the spraying of the hydrogen peroxide solution. A low-concentration hydrogen peroxide solution having a concentration of 0.1% or less is used as the sterilizing action water, and a hydrogen peroxide decomposition catalyst or a hydrogen peroxide-decomposing enzyme is applied in the vicinity of the blade tip of the blower fan. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The air conditioner according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a mist transport duct is connected to the spray portion of the sterilizing water, and is different from a blower circuit using the blower fan. The air conditioner according to claim 6, wherein an outlet of the mist transport duct is provided between the heat exchanger and the blower fan.

Images