JP2012125715A - Electrolytic apparatus, and hygienic cleaning apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrolytic apparatus and a hygienic cleaning apparatus which can efficiently remove scales while suppressing a load to an electrode.SOLUTION: The electrolytic apparatus equipped with an electrolytic cell which has two or more electrodes, an energizing part which applies voltage between electrodes, a water supply control part which controls water supply to the electrolytic cell, a temperature information section which acquires information on temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell, a control section which determines frequency for reversing polarity of the voltage applied between electrodes on the basis of the information acquired by the temperature information section, is provided.

Description

  Aspects of the invention generally relate to electrolyzers and sanitary washing devices.

  In general, there is an electrolysis apparatus that can generate a liquid (functional water or electrolytic water) containing, for example, hypochlorous acid, ozone, silver ions, or the like by using an electrolytic cell having electrodes. When the electrolyzer generates electrolyzed water in the electrolyzer, calcium carbonate called so-called “scale” or the like may be generated and adhered to the electrode of the electrolyzer due to calcium ions existing in the water. If the scale adheres to and accumulates on the electrode of the electrolytic cell, there is a problem that the electrolysis efficiency is lowered. On the other hand, there is an electrolysis apparatus that can remove the scale by reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes.

  However, polarity reversal has a problem that it imposes a burden on the catalyst formed on the surface of the electrode and reduces the life of the electrode. On the other hand, when reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes, an electrolysis control method for chlorine generation is disclosed in which the frequency of polarity reversal is divided into once for a plurality of times of electrolysis (Patent Document 1). Patent Document 1 has a description that the electrode life can be extended without adhesion of scale by performing the polarity reversal once every plural times of electrolysis.

  However, if the polarity reversal frequency is simply set to be equal to one for the predetermined number of electrolysis, the polarity is the same as in summer, for example, even when the water temperature is lower, such as in the summer, despite the relatively small scale accumulation. Inversion is performed. Therefore, there is room for improvement in terms of further reducing the burden on the electrode, efficiently removing the scale, and further extending the life of the electrode.

JP 2000-126774 A

  The present invention has been made based on recognition of such problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electrolysis apparatus and a sanitary washing apparatus capable of efficiently removing scales while suppressing a burden on the electrodes.

  A first invention is supplied to an electrolytic cell having a plurality of electrodes, an energization unit that applies a voltage between the electrodes, a water supply control unit that controls supply of water to the electrolytic cell, and the electrolytic cell. A temperature information unit that acquires information on the temperature of water, and a control unit that determines the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes based on the information acquired by the temperature information unit. The electrolysis apparatus is characterized.

  According to this electrolysis apparatus, the control unit determines the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes based on the information acquired by the temperature information unit. The scale is more easily generated as the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell is higher. Therefore, the control part can change the frequency which reverses the polarity of the voltage applied between electrodes according to the production | generation degree of a scale. For example, the control unit can lower the polarity reversal frequency in winter than the polarity reversal frequency in summer. Thereby, the burden on the electrode of the electrolytic cell can be suppressed and the scale can be efficiently removed.

  The second invention is the electrolysis apparatus according to the first invention, wherein the temperature information section is a temperature sensor for measuring a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell.

  According to this electrolysis apparatus, the temperature sensor can directly measure the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell. Therefore, the temperature sensor can grasp the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell more accurately. Thereby, the control unit can set a plurality of polarity inversion frequencies and execute finer control.

  The third invention is characterized in that, in the first invention, the temperature information section is a temperature estimation section for estimating a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on an outside air temperature of an ambient environment. It is an electrolysis device.

  According to this electrolyzer, the temperature estimation unit estimates the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on the outside air temperature of the surrounding environment. The control unit can sufficiently determine the polarity reversal frequency based on the water temperature change accompanying the seasonal variation estimated from the outside air temperature. Thereby, since it is not necessary to measure the temperature of the water supplied to an electrolytic cell directly, the structure of an electrolyzer can be simplified.

  In a fourth aspect based on the first aspect, the temperature information section is an outside air temperature sensor that measures the outside air temperature of the surrounding environment, and the control section is configured to adjust the outside air temperature measured by the outside air temperature sensor. It is an electrolyzer characterized by estimating the temperature of the water supplied to the said electrolytic cell based on.

  According to this electrolyzer, the outside air temperature sensor measures the outside air temperature in the surrounding environment. Moreover, a control part estimates the temperature of the water supplied to an electrolytic cell based on the outside temperature which the outside temperature sensor measured. The control unit can sufficiently determine the polarity reversal frequency based on the water temperature change accompanying the seasonal variation estimated from the outside air temperature. Thereby, since it is not necessary to measure the temperature of the water supplied to an electrolytic cell directly, the structure of an electrolyzer can be simplified. Moreover, since the outside air temperature sensor does not need to estimate the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell, the structure of the outside air temperature sensor can be simplified.

  The fifth invention is the electrolysis apparatus according to the first invention, wherein the temperature information section is a calendar function section for estimating a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on a calendar. It is.

  According to this electrolyzer, the calendar function unit estimates the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on the calendar. The control unit can sufficiently determine the polarity reversal frequency based on the water temperature change accompanying the seasonal variation estimated from the date and the season. Thereby, since it is not necessary to measure the temperature of the water supplied to an electrolytic cell directly, the structure of an electrolyzer can be simplified.

  In addition, in a sixth aspect based on the first aspect, the temperature information section is a calendar function section that acquires information related to a calendar, and the control section is based on the information related to the calendar acquired by the calendar function section. An electrolyzer that estimates the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell.

  According to this electrolysis apparatus, the calendar function unit acquires information related to the calendar. Moreover, a control part estimates the temperature of the water supplied to an electrolytic cell based on the information regarding the calendar which the calendar function part acquired. The control unit can sufficiently determine the polarity reversal frequency based on the water temperature change accompanying the seasonal variation estimated from the date and the season. Thereby, since it is not necessary to measure the temperature of the water supplied to an electrolytic cell directly, the structure of an electrolyzer can be simplified. Moreover, since the calendar function part does not need to estimate the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell, the structure of the calendar function part can be simplified.

  Further, a seventh invention is characterized in that, in any one of the first to sixth inventions, the control unit sets the frequency of reversing the polarity based on a cumulative energization time between the electrodes. It is an electrolysis device.

  According to this electrolysis apparatus, the control unit sets the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes based on the cumulative energization time between the electrodes. The amount of scale generated depends on the energization time of the electrolytic cell. Therefore, the control unit can set the timing for removing the scale more effectively by defining the polarity reversal frequency not by the cumulative energization count but by the cumulative energization time.

  The eighth invention is characterized in that, in the seventh invention, the frequency of reversing the polarity is lower when the measured or estimated water temperature is lower than the predetermined temperature than when the water temperature is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature. It is an electrolysis device.

  According to this electrolyzer, the control unit can sufficiently determine the polarity reversal frequency based on the water temperature change accompanying the seasonal variation, and changes the polarity reversal frequency before and after the predetermined temperature. Thereby, the scale can be efficiently removed with a simpler control, and the life of the electrode can be extended.

  Moreover, 9th invention has a water outlet, the nozzle which injects water from the said water outlet, and wash | cleans a user's body, The electrolyzer as described in any one of Claims 1-8, The sanitary washing apparatus is characterized in that water electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell hits at least a part of the surface of the nozzle.

  According to this sanitary washing device, it is possible to efficiently remove the scale while suppressing the burden on the electrode of the electrolytic cell in the electrolysis device, and for example, a nozzle that realizes washing of a user's “wet” or the like The toilet bowl on which the sanitary washing device is placed can be sterilized.

  According to the aspect of the present invention, there are provided an electrolysis apparatus and a sanitary washing apparatus capable of efficiently removing scales while suppressing a burden on the electrodes.

It is a block diagram showing the principal part structure of the electrolyzer concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the other principal part structure of the electrolyzer concerning this embodiment. It is a block diagram showing the further another principal part structure of the electrolyzer concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which illustrates the specific example of operation | movement of the electrolyzer concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which illustrates the specific example of the other operation | movement of the electrolyzer concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart figure which illustrates the specific example of the other operation | movement of the electrolyzer concerning this embodiment. It is a perspective schematic diagram which illustrates the external appearance of the electrolytic cell unit of this embodiment. It is a disassembled schematic diagram which illustrates the internal structure of the electrolytic cell unit of this embodiment. It is a cross-sectional schematic diagram for demonstrating the electrolysis in the electrolytic cell unit of this embodiment. It is a graph showing the change of the dissolution amount of calcium carbonate and carbonate ion based on the change of pH. It is a graph showing the change of the dissolution amount of calcium carbonate based on a temperature change. It is a perspective schematic diagram showing the toilet apparatus provided with the sanitary washing apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram showing the principal part structure of the sanitary washing apparatus concerning this embodiment. It is a perspective schematic diagram which illustrates the nozzle unit of this embodiment.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, in each drawing, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same component and detailed description is abbreviate | omitted suitably.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of an electrolyzer according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing another main configuration of the electrolyzer according to the present embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing still another main configuration of the electrolyzer according to the present embodiment.

  The electrolyzer 40 according to the present embodiment includes, for example, a flow path 20 that guides water supplied from a water supply source 10 such as a water supply or a storage tank, and an electromagnetic that controls supply of water supplied from the water supply source 10 to the downstream side. A valve (water supply control unit) 431, an electrolytic cell unit (electrolytic cell) 450 having electrodes, an energizing unit 411 for applying a voltage to the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450, and the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 A temperature sensor (temperature information unit) 413 for measuring, and a control unit 405 for controlling operations of the electromagnetic valve 431 and the energization unit 411 are provided.

The electromagnetic valve 431 is an electromagnetic valve that can be opened and closed, for example. The electromagnetic valve 431 opens and closes based on a command from the control unit 405 and controls the supply of water to the electrolytic cell unit 450.
The electrolytic cell unit 450 is provided on the downstream side of the electromagnetic valve 431. The electrolytic cell unit 450 will be described in detail later.

The temperature sensor 413 includes, for example, a thermistor and can measure the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 through the flow path 20. Then, the temperature sensor 413 can transmit the measured water temperature to the control unit 405.
That is, the water temperature information part of this embodiment acquires information regarding the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450. In the specification of the present application, the range of “information on the temperature of water” includes not only the measured or estimated water temperature, but also the outside air temperature, month, day, season, etc. that affect the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450. Information shall be included.

  The temperature information unit of the present embodiment is not limited to the temperature sensor 413 but may be the outside air temperature sensor (temperature information unit) 415 illustrated in FIG. The outside air temperature sensor (temperature estimation unit) 415 can estimate the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the outside air temperature of the surrounding environment where the electrolyzer 40 is installed. The outside air temperature sensor 415 can transmit the estimated water temperature to the control unit 405.

  Alternatively, the outside air temperature sensor 415 may measure the outside temperature of the surrounding environment where the electrolyzer 40 is installed, and transmit the measured outside temperature to the control unit 405. In this case, the control unit 405 estimates the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the outside air temperature measured by the outside air temperature sensor 415.

  Further, the temperature information section of the present embodiment may be a calendar function section 417 shown in FIG. The calendar function unit 417 can estimate the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the date and season. The outside air temperature sensor 415 can transmit the estimated water temperature to the control unit 405.

  Alternatively, the calendar function unit 417 may acquire date and season information and transmit the acquired information to the control unit 405. In this case, the control unit 405 estimates the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the date and season information acquired by the calendar function unit 417. The calendar function unit 417 may be a calendar function incorporated in the control unit 405 instead of being separated from the control unit 405.

When the electrolytic cell unit 450 electrolyzes water supplied from the water supply source 10 via the electromagnetic valve 431 to generate sterilized water, a scale such as calcium carbonate (CaCO ₃ ) is generated and attached to the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450. . Scale is likely to be generated when the temperature of the electrolyzed water increases. And if a scale accumulates on the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450, electrolysis efficiency will fall and the production | generation efficiency of sterilization water will fall.

  Therefore, the electrolyzer 40 according to the present embodiment reverses the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450. Thereby, the scale is peeled off from the surface of the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450. However, the polarity reversal may impose a burden on the catalyst formed on the surface of the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450 and reduce the electrode life.

  On the other hand, the control unit 405 of the present embodiment determines the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the information acquired by the temperature information unit. Specifically, the control unit 405 determines the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 413. Since the scale is likely to be generated when the temperature of the electrolyzed water rises, the control unit 405 is lower than the case where the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 413 is lower than the predetermined temperature, for example, when the water temperature is lower than the predetermined temperature. Sets the polarity reversal frequency. For this reason, the control unit 405 can lower the polarity reversal frequency in winter than the polarity reversal frequency in summer, for example. Thereby, the burden on the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450 can be suppressed and the scale can be efficiently removed. Furthermore, since the temperature sensor 413 can directly measure the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450, the temperature of the water can be grasped more accurately. Accordingly, the control unit 405 can set a plurality of polarity inversion frequencies and execute finer control.

  Alternatively, the control unit 405 determines the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the water temperature estimated by the outside air temperature sensor 415 or the measured outside air temperature. Since the scale is likely to be generated when the temperature of the electrolyzed water rises, the control unit 405 is higher than the predetermined temperature when the water temperature estimated by the outside air temperature sensor 415 or the measured outside air temperature is lower than the predetermined temperature, for example. A low polarity reversal frequency is set as compared with the case. As a result, as described above, the scale can be efficiently removed while suppressing the burden on the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450. Furthermore, the control unit 405 can sufficiently determine the polarity inversion frequency based on the water temperature change accompanying the seasonal variation estimated from the outside air temperature. Thereby, since it is not necessary to measure the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 directly, the structure of the electrolyzer 40 can be simplified.

  Or the control part 405 determines the frequency which reverses the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the water temperature which the calendar function part 417 estimated or the acquired date and season information. Since the scale is likely to be generated when the temperature of the water to be electrolyzed increases, the control unit 405, for example, when the water temperature estimated by the calendar function unit 417 or the acquired date and season information is lower than a predetermined temperature or a predetermined value. Sets a low polarity reversal frequency compared to a predetermined temperature or higher than a predetermined value. As a result, as described above, the scale can be efficiently removed while suppressing the burden on the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450. Further, the control unit 405 can sufficiently determine the polarity reversal frequency based on the water temperature change accompanying the seasonal variation estimated from the date and the season. Thereby, since it is not necessary to measure the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 directly, the structure of the electrolyzer 40 can be simplified.

Next, a specific example of the operation of the electrolyzer according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of the operation of the electrolyzer according to the present embodiment.

In this specific example, the case where the water temperature information unit is the temperature sensor 413 will be described as an example.
First, when the control unit 405 starts energization of the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450 to start generation of sterilizing water (step S11), the temperature sensor 413 measures the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450. (Step S13). As described above, the control unit 405 may cause the outside air temperature sensor 415 or the calendar function unit 417 to estimate the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 determines whether the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 413 is 20 ° C. or higher (step S15). When the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 413 is 20 ° C. or higher (step S15: YES), the control unit 405 sets the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 to “20 seconds”. (Step S17). The polarity reversal frequency is “20 seconds” means that the control unit 405 is disposed between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 once every 20 seconds when the cumulative energization time of the electrolytic cell unit 450 passes. It shall mean to reverse the polarity of the applied voltage.

  On the other hand, when the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 413 is lower than 20 ° C. (step S15: NO), the control unit 405 sets the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 to “40”. Seconds "(step S19). And the control part 405 performs polarity inversion based on the polarity inversion frequency set in step S17 and S19 (return: step S21).

  The amount of scale generated depends on the energization time of the electrolytic cell unit 450. According to this specific example, since the control unit 405 defines the polarity reversal frequency not by the cumulative energization count but by the cumulative energization time, the timing for removing the scale can be set more effectively. In addition, since the control unit 405 changes the polarity reversal frequency around a predetermined temperature (20 ° C. in this specific example), the scale can be removed efficiently and the life of the electrode can be extended by simpler control.

  Note that the polarity inversion frequency set by the control unit 405 in steps S17 and S19 is not limited to this. As long as the polarity reversal frequency in step S19 is lower than the polarity reversal frequency in step S17, the control unit 405 can appropriately change the polarity reversal frequency. Further, the predetermined temperature as the determination criterion in step S15 is not limited to “20 ° C.”.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of another operation of the electrolyzer according to the present embodiment.
Also in this specific example, the case where the water temperature information part is the temperature sensor 413 will be described as an example.

The operations in steps S31 to S35 are the same as the operations in steps S11 to S15 described above with reference to FIG.
Subsequently, when the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 413 is 20 ° C. or higher (step S35: YES), the control unit 405 sets the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 as “ It is set to “once every 3 electrolysis” (step S37). The polarity reversal frequency is “once every 3 times of electrolysis”, and every time the cumulative number of energizations to the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 reaches 3, the control unit 405 controls the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450. It means to reverse the polarity of the voltage applied between them.

  On the other hand, when the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 413 is less than 20 ° C. (step S35: NO), the control unit 405 sets the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 to “electrolysis”. “Once every six times” is set (step S39). Then, the control unit 405 performs polarity inversion based on the polarity inversion frequency set in steps S17 and S19 (return: step S41).

  The amount of scale generated also depends on the number of times the electrolyzer unit 450 is energized. According to this specific example, since the control unit 405 defines the polarity reversal frequency by the cumulative number of energizations, the scale can be efficiently removed and the life of the electrode can be extended by simpler control.

  Note that the polarity inversion frequency set by the control unit 405 in steps S37 and S39 is not limited to this. As long as the polarity inversion frequency in step S39 is lower than the polarity inversion frequency in step S37, the control unit 405 can appropriately change the polarity inversion frequency. Further, the predetermined temperature as the determination criterion in step S35 is not limited to “20 ° C.”.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of still another operation of the electrolyzer according to the present embodiment.
In this specific example, the case where the water temperature information unit is the outside air temperature sensor 415 will be described as an example.

  First, when the controller 405 starts energization of the electrode of the electrolytic cell unit 450 and starts generation of sterilizing water (step S51), the controller 405 receives the ambient temperature of the surrounding environment measured by the ambient temperature sensor 415 (step S53). ). Note that the control unit 405 may receive the date and season information from the calendar function unit 417 in step S53.

  Subsequently, the control unit 405 estimates the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the outside air temperature transmitted from the outside air temperature sensor 415 (step S55). Subsequently, the control unit 405 determines whether or not the estimated water temperature is 20 ° C. or higher (step S57). The operations in steps S59 to S63 are the same as the operations in steps S17 to S21 described above with reference to FIG.

  Note that the polarity inversion frequency set by the control unit 405 in steps S59 and S61 is not limited to this. As long as the polarity reversal frequency in step S61 is lower than the polarity reversal frequency in step S59, the control unit 405 can appropriately change the polarity reversal frequency. Further, the predetermined temperature as the determination criterion in step S57 is not limited to “20 ° C.”.

  According to this specific example, since it is the control unit 405 that estimates the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450, the outside air temperature sensor 415 and the calendar function unit 417 are configured to supply the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450. It is not necessary to estimate the temperature of Thereby, the structure of the outside air temperature sensor 415 and the calendar function part 417 can be simplified.

Next, specific examples of components included in the electrolyzer 40 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the appearance of the electrolytic cell unit according to this embodiment.
FIG. 8 is an exploded schematic view illustrating the internal structure of the electrolytic cell unit of this embodiment.

  The electrolytic cell unit 450 of the present embodiment includes a first lid member 451, a second lid member 452, an anode plate (electrode) 454, and a cathode plate (electrode) 455. The first lid member 451 has an inflow portion 451 a that allows the water supplied from the water supply source 10 to flow into the electrolytic cell unit 450. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the inflow portion 451 a is provided in the lower portion of the first lid member 451. On the other hand, the second lid member 452 has an outflow portion 452a through which water that has flowed into the electrolytic cell unit 450 flows out. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the outflow portion 452 a is provided on the upper portion of the second lid member 452. The first lid member 451 and the second lid member 452 are attached to each other in a liquid-tight manner, and can prevent the water that has flowed in from the inflow portion 451a from flowing out from other than the outflow portion 452a.

  The anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455 are provided between the first lid member 451 and the second lid member 452, and are arranged to face each other as shown in FIG. At this time, a spacer 457 is provided between the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455. Thereby, the distance between the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455 is ensured at a substantially constant distance. The anode plate 454 has a connection terminal 454a protruding from the electrode surface. As shown in FIG. 7, the connection terminal 454 a is led out of the electrolytic cell unit 450 through the first lid member 451. Although not shown, this is the same for the cathode plate 455. That is, the cathode plate 455 has a connection terminal (not shown) protruding from the electrode surface, and the connection terminal (not shown) is led out of the electrolytic cell unit 450 through the second lid member 452.

  The anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455 are connected to the energizing portion 411 (see FIGS. 1 to 3) via the connection terminal 454a and a connection terminal of the cathode plate 455 (not shown). The control unit 405 can control the energization unit 411 and apply a voltage between the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455.

  The water supplied from the water supply source 10 to the electrolytic cell unit 450 via the electromagnetic valve 431 enters the electrolytic cell unit 450 from the inflow portion 451a of the first lid member 451 as indicated by an arrow A shown in FIG. Led. Subsequently, the water that flows into the electrolytic cell unit 450 from the inflow portion 451a flows through a space (flow path) between the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455, as indicated by an arrow B shown in FIG. The second lid member 452 is discharged from the outflow portion 452a to the outside of the electrolytic cell unit 450. At this time, when the control unit 405 is energizing the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455, the water flowing in the space between the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455 is electrolyzed. This will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining electrolysis in the electrolytic cell unit of the present embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a graph showing the change in the dissolved amount of calcium carbonate and carbonate ions based on the change in pH.
FIG. 11 is a graph showing changes in the amount of calcium carbonate dissolved based on temperature changes.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, the electrolytic cell unit 450 includes the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455 therein, and the anode plate 454, the cathode plate 455, and the like are controlled by energization control from the control unit 405. The tap water flowing through the space between can be electrolyzed. At this time, the reaction represented by the formula (1) occurs in the cathode plate 455.

H ⁺ + e ⁻ → 1 / 2H ₂ ↑ (1)

Therefore, acid (H ⁺ ) is consumed in the cathode plate 455, and the pH increases in the vicinity of the cathode plate 455. When the pH increases, as shown in FIG. 10, the amount of carbonate ions (CO ₃ ²⁻ ) dissolved increases. As the pH increases, carbonic acid (H ₂ CO ₃ ) releases hydrogen ions (H ⁺ ) to generate carbonate ions (CO ₃ ²⁻ ), and the reaction represented by the formula (2) occurs. Then, the generated carbonate ions (CO ₃ ²⁻ ) and calcium ions (Ca ²⁺ ) present in the tap water are combined, and the reaction represented by the formula (3) occurs. That is, as shown in FIG. 10, the increase in pH causes calcium carbonate (CaCO ₃ : scale) generation (precipitation due to a decrease in solubility).

H ₂ CO ₃ → 2H ⁺ + CO ₃ ²⁻ (2)
Ca ²⁺ + CO ₃ ²⁻ → CaCO ₃ (3)

On the other hand, in the anode plate 454, the reaction represented by the formula (4) occurs. Moreover, tap water contains chlorine ions (Cl ⁻ ). This chloride ion is contained as salt (NaCl) or calcium chloride (CaCl ₂ ) in a water source (for example, groundwater, dam water, river water, etc.). Therefore, the reaction represented by the formula (5) occurs.

2OH ⁻ → 2e ⁻ + H ₂ O + 1 / 2O ₂ ↑ (4)
Cl ⁻ → e ⁻ + 1 / 2Cl ₂ (5)

Chlorine generated in formula (5) is unlikely to exist as bubbles, and most of the chlorine dissolves in water. Therefore, for the chlorine generated in formula (5), the reaction shown in formula (6) occurs. Thus, hypochlorous acid (HClO) is produced by electrolyzing chlorine ions. As a result, the water electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell unit 450 changes to a liquid containing hypochlorous acid. Since alkali (OH ⁻ ) is consumed in the anode plate 454, the pH is lowered in the vicinity of the anode plate 454.

Cl ₂ + H ₂ O → HClO + H ⁺ + Cl ⁻ (6)

  Moreover, when the water temperature rises, as shown in FIG. 11, the dissolved amount of calcium carbonate falls. That is, when the water temperature rises, calcium carbonate becomes difficult to dissolve in water. Therefore, when the water temperature rises, scales are likely to be generated and easily precipitated. Therefore, when higher-temperature water is supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 and the electrolytic cell unit 450 electrolyzes the higher-temperature water, scales are easily generated and easily deposited.

  Here, the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be a liquid containing metal ions such as silver ions and copper ions. Alternatively, the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be a liquid containing electrolytic chlorine, ozone, or the like. Alternatively, the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 may be acidic water or alkaline water. Among these, the liquid containing hypochlorous acid has stronger sterilizing power.

  Hypochlorous acid functions as a sterilizing component, and the liquid containing hypochlorous acid, that is, sterilizing water, can efficiently remove or decompose or sterilize dirt caused by ammonia or the like. As used herein, “sterilizing water” refers to a liquid containing more sterilizing components such as hypochlorous acid than tap water (also simply referred to as “water”).

Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 12 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a toilet apparatus including a sanitary washing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Moreover, FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the principal part structure of the sanitary washing apparatus concerning this embodiment.
In addition, FIG. 13 represents together the principal part structure of the waterway system and the electrical system.

  The toilet device shown in FIG. 12 includes a Western-style seat toilet (hereinafter simply referred to as “toilet” for convenience of explanation) 800 and a sanitary washing device 100 provided thereon. The sanitary washing device 100 includes a casing 400, a toilet seat 200, and a toilet lid 300. The toilet seat 200 and the toilet lid 300 are pivotally supported with respect to the casing 400 so as to be freely opened and closed.

Inside the casing 400, the electrolyzer 40 described above with reference to FIGS.
The casing 400 contains a body cleaning function unit for cleaning the user's “butt” sitting on the toilet seat 200. Further, for example, the casing 400 is provided with a seating detection sensor 404 that detects that the user has sat on the toilet seat 200. When the seating detection sensor 404 detects a user sitting on the toilet seat 200, when the user operates the operation unit 500 such as a remote controller, for example, a cleaning nozzle (hereinafter simply referred to as “nozzle”) 473. Can be advanced into the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800. In the sanitary washing device 100 illustrated in FIG. 12, the nozzle 473 has entered the bowl 801.

  One or a plurality of water discharge ports 474 are provided at the tip of the nozzle 473. And the nozzle 473 can wash | clean the "buttock" etc. of the user who sat on the toilet seat 200 by injecting water from the spout 474 provided in the front-end | tip part.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the sanitary washing device 100 according to the present embodiment flows water supplied from a water supply source 10 such as a water supply or a water storage tank to a water outlet 474 of a nozzle 473. It has a path 20. An electromagnetic valve 431 is provided on the upstream side of the flow path 20. The electromagnetic valve 431 is an electromagnetic valve that can be opened and closed, and controls the supply of water based on a command from the control unit 405 provided in the casing 400.

  A heat exchanger unit 440 is provided downstream of the electromagnetic valve 431. The heat exchanger unit 440 includes a hot water heater 441. The hot water heater 441 heats the supplied water to make predetermined hot water. An inlet water thermistor (not shown) is provided on the upstream side of the hot water heater 441, and a hot water thermistor (not shown) is provided on the downstream side of the hot water heater 441. In addition, about warm water temperature, a user can set by operating the operation part 500, for example.

  A temperature sensor 413 that measures the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 is provided downstream of the hot water heater 441. The temperature sensor 413 may be a hot water thermistor (not shown) provided on the downstream side of the hot water heater 441. As described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3, the temperature sensor 413 may be replaced with the outside air temperature sensor 415 or the calendar function unit 417.

  An electrolytic cell unit 450 capable of generating sterilizing water is provided downstream of the hot water heater 441. The nozzle 473 and the flow path 20 on the downstream side of the electrolytic cell unit 450 are sterilized by the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450. The electrolytic cell unit 450 is as described above with reference to FIGS.

  A pressure modulation device 460 is provided downstream of the electrolytic cell unit 450. The pressure modulation device 460 can pulsate the flow of water in the flow path 20 and pulsate the water discharged from the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473. However, in the present invention, the pressure modulation device 460 is not necessarily provided.

  Downstream of the pressure modulator 460, a flow rate switching valve 471 that adjusts the water flow (flow rate) and a flow path switching valve 472 that opens, closes, and switches water supply to the nozzle 473 and the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 are provided. Yes. The flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472 may be provided as one unit. Subsequently, a nozzle 473 is provided downstream of the flow rate switching valve 471 and the flow path switching valve 472.

  As described above, the nozzle 473 can wash the “butt” of the user sitting on the toilet seat 200 by spraying water. On the other hand, even if the sterilizing water spouting nozzle for discharging the sterilizing water generated in the electrolytic cell unit 450 from the flow path switching valve 472 to the surface of the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800 is provided separately from the nozzle 473. Good. In this case, a sterilizing water spouting nozzle (not shown) is provided in the flow path 20 on the downstream side of the electrolytic cell unit 450. The sanitary washing apparatus 100 is generally installed on the toilet bowl 800 and used. Therefore, when a sterilizing water spouting nozzle for discharging sterilizing water is provided on the surface of the bowl 801, the sanitary washing device 100 having the electrolyzer 40 sterilizes bacteria present on the surface of the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800. It can also be used effectively as a device for

The nozzle 473 receives a driving force from the nozzle motor 476 (see FIG. 14), and can advance or retreat into the bowl 801 of the toilet bowl 800. That is, the nozzle motor 476 can advance and retract the nozzle 473 based on a command from the control unit 405.
Then, the control unit 405 is supplied with power from the power supply circuit 401 and detects a user entering the toilet room 402, a human body detection sensor 403 that detects a user in front of the toilet seat 200, Based on signals from the seating detection sensor 404 that detects the seating of the user on the toilet seat 200, the operation unit 500, etc., the electromagnetic valve 431, the hot water heater 441, the electrolytic cell unit 450, the flow rate switching valve 471, Operations of the path switching valve 472 and the nozzle motor 476 can be controlled.

  The seating detection sensor 404 can detect a human body existing above the toilet seat 200 immediately before the user sits on the toilet seat 200 or a user seated on the toilet seat 200. In other words, the seating detection sensor 404 can detect not only a user seated on the toilet seat 200 but also a user existing above the toilet seat 200. As such a seating detection sensor 404, for example, an infrared light emitting / receiving distance measuring sensor or the like can be used.

  In addition, the human body detection sensor 403 can detect a user in front of the toilet bowl 800, that is, a user present at a position spaced forward from the toilet seat 200. That is, the human body detection sensor 403 can detect a user who enters the toilet room and approaches the toilet seat 200. As such a human body detection sensor 403, for example, an infrared light projecting / receiving distance measuring sensor or the like can be used.

  The room entry detection sensor 402 can detect a user immediately after opening a toilet room door or entering a toilet room, or a user existing in front of the door. That is, the entrance detection sensor 402 can detect not only a user who has entered the toilet room, but also a user before entering the toilet room, that is, a user existing in front of the door outside the toilet room. As such a room entry detection sensor 402, a pyroelectric sensor, a microwave sensor such as a Doppler sensor, or the like can be used. When using a sensor that uses the microwave Doppler effect or a sensor that detects the object to be detected based on the amplitude (intensity) of the microwave transmitted and reflected, the user's The presence can be detected. That is, the user before entering the toilet room can be detected.

  In the toilet apparatus shown in FIG. 12, a recessed portion 409 is formed on the upper surface of the casing 400, and the entrance detection sensor 402 is provided so that a part thereof is embedded in the recessed portion 409. In the state where the toilet lid 300 is closed, the entrance detection sensor 402 detects the entrance of the user through the transmission window 310 provided near the base. For example, when the room entry detection sensor 402 detects a user, the control unit 405 can automatically open the toilet lid 300 based on the detection result of the room entry detection sensor 402. In addition, the seating detection sensor 404 and the human body detection sensor 403 are provided in a central portion in front of the casing 400. However, the installation form of the seating detection sensor 404, the human body detection sensor 403, and the entrance detection sensor 402 is not limited to this, and can be changed as appropriate.

  Also, the casing 400 is provided with various types of devices such as a “warm air drying function”, a “deodorizing unit”, and an “indoor heating unit” for blowing and drying hot air toward a “butt” of a user sitting on the toilet seat 200. A mechanism may be provided as appropriate. At this time, an exhaust port 407 from the deodorizing unit and an exhaust port 408 from the indoor heating unit are appropriately provided on the side surface of the casing 400. However, in this invention, additional function parts, such as a deodorizing unit and an indoor heating unit, do not necessarily need to be provided.

FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the nozzle unit of this embodiment.
As illustrated in FIG. 14, the nozzle unit 470 of the present embodiment includes a mounting base 475 as a base, a nozzle 473 supported by the mounting base 475, and a nozzle motor 476 that moves the nozzle 473. The nozzle 473 is slidable with respect to the mounting base 475 by a driving force transmitted from the nozzle motor 476 via a transmission member 477 such as a belt as indicated by an arrow C shown in FIG. That is, the nozzle 473 can move straight in the axial direction (advance / retreat direction) of the nozzle 473 itself. The nozzle 473 can be moved forward and backward from the casing 400 and the mounting base 475.

Further, the nozzle unit 470 of the present embodiment is provided with a nozzle cleaning chamber 478. The nozzle cleaning chamber 478 is fixed to the mounting base 475, and sterilizes or cleans the outer peripheral surface (body) of the nozzle 473 by spraying sterilizing water or water from a water discharge portion 479 provided therein. it can. That is, the sterilizing water generated by electrolysis in the electrolytic cell unit 450 corresponds to at least a part of the surface of the nozzle 473.
Specifically, when the control unit 405 generates sterilizing water by energizing the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455 of the electrolytic cell unit 450, the body of the nozzle 473 is sterilized water sprayed from the water discharge unit 479. Sterilized by On the other hand, when the control unit 405 does not energize the anode plate 454 and the cathode plate 455 of the electrolytic cell unit 450, the body of the nozzle 473 is physically washed with water sprayed from the water discharger 479.

  More specifically, in a state where the nozzle 473 is accommodated in the casing 400, the portion of the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473 is substantially accommodated in the nozzle cleaning chamber 478. Therefore, the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 can sterilize or clean the portion of the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473 in the housed state by injecting sterilizing water or water from the water discharge portion 479 provided therein. In addition, the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 can sterilize or clean not only the portion of the water discharge port 474 but also the outer peripheral surface of the other portion by spraying water or sterilizing water from the water discharge portion 479 when the nozzle 473 advances and retreats. .

  Further, the nozzle 473 of this embodiment sterilizes or cleans the portion of the water outlet 474 by discharging sterilizing water or water from the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 itself in a state where the nozzle 473 is housed in the casing 400. be able to. Further, in the state where the nozzle 473 is housed in the casing 400, the portion of the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 is almost housed in the nozzle cleaning chamber 478, so that the sterilized water discharged from the water outlet 474 of the nozzle 473 or The water is reflected by the inner wall of the nozzle cleaning chamber 478 and is applied to the portion of the water discharge port 474. Therefore, the portion of the water discharge port 474 of the nozzle 473 is sterilized or cleaned by sterilizing water or water reflected from the inner wall of the nozzle cleaning chamber 478.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. As long as the features of the present invention are provided, those skilled in the art appropriately modified the design of the above-described embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention. For example, the shape, size, material, arrangement, etc. of each element provided in the electrolyzer 40, the sanitary washing device 100, the electrolytic cell unit 450, etc., and the temperature information part (temperature sensor 413, outside air temperature sensor 415, calendar function part 417) The installation form is not limited to those illustrated, and can be changed as appropriate.
For example, the control unit 405 may determine the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes of the electrolytic cell unit 450 based on the power consumption of the heat exchanger unit 440. In winter, the temperature of the water supplied to the heat exchanger unit 440 is lower than in other seasons. Therefore, in winter, the heat exchanger unit 440 requires more power consumption than other seasons in order to heat the water temperature to the set temperature. Therefore, the control unit 405 can determine the polarity reversal frequency by estimating the temperature of the water supplied to the electrolytic cell unit 450 from the power consumption of the heat exchanger unit 440.
Moreover, each element with which each embodiment mentioned above is provided can be combined as long as technically possible, and the combination of these is also included in the scope of the present invention as long as it includes the features of the present invention.

  10 water supply source, 20 flow path, 40 electrolysis device, 100 sanitary washing device, 200 toilet seat, 300 toilet lid, 310 transmission window, 400 casing, 401 power supply circuit, 402 entrance detection sensor, 403 human body detection sensor, 404 seating detection sensor 405 control unit, 407 exhaust port, 408 discharge port, 409 recessed portion, 411 energization unit, 413 temperature sensor, 415 outside air temperature sensor, 417 calendar function unit, 431 solenoid valve, 440 heat exchanger unit, 441 hot water heater, 450 electrolytic cell unit, 451 first lid member, 451a inflow part, 452 second lid member, 452a outflow part, 454 anode plate, 454a connection terminal, 455 cathode plate, 457 spacer, 460 pressure modulator, 470 nozzle unit , 471 Flow rate switching Valve, 472 flow path switching valve, 473 nozzle, 474 water outlet, 475 mounting base, 476 nozzle motor, 477 transmission member, 478 nozzle cleaning chamber, 479 water discharge section, 500 operation section, 800 toilet bowl, 801 bowl

Claims (9)

An electrolytic cell having a plurality of electrodes;
An energization section for applying a voltage between the electrodes;
A water supply control unit for controlling the supply of water to the electrolytic cell;
A temperature information section for obtaining information on the temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell;
A control unit for determining the frequency of reversing the polarity of the voltage applied between the electrodes based on the information acquired by the temperature information unit;
An electrolysis apparatus comprising:   The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the temperature information unit is a temperature sensor that measures a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell.   The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the temperature information unit is a temperature estimation unit that estimates a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on an outside temperature of an ambient environment. The temperature information part is an outside air temperature sensor that measures the outside air temperature of the surrounding environment,
The electrolyzer according to claim 1, wherein the controller estimates a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on the outside air temperature measured by the outside air temperature sensor.   The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the temperature information unit is a calendar function unit that estimates a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on a calendar. The temperature information part is a calendar function part that acquires information about a calendar,
The electrolyzer according to claim 1, wherein the control unit estimates a temperature of water supplied to the electrolytic cell based on information on the calendar acquired by the calendar function unit.   The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit sets the frequency of reversing the polarity based on a cumulative energization time between the electrodes.   The electrolysis apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the frequency of reversing the polarity is lower when the measured or estimated water temperature is lower than the predetermined temperature than when the measured or estimated water temperature is equal to or higher than the predetermined temperature. A nozzle that has a water outlet, and jets water from the water outlet to wash the user's body;
The electrolyzer according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
With
The sanitary washing apparatus, wherein water electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell hits at least a part of the surface of the nozzle.

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