JP2014151271A - Electrolytic water generation unit and water supply device equipped with the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrolytic water generation unit capable of effectively generating electrolytic water as well as sufficiently exerting a sterilization or cleaning effect of the generated electrolytic water.SOLUTION: An electrolytic water generation unit 1 includes a water flow path 2 in which water flows, and an ion absorption electrode 4 and a metal electrode 5 arranged inside the water flow path 2. The ion absorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 are arranged opposing to each other in a direction crossing a water flow direction. Through applying a direct-current voltage between the ion absorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5, acidic water or alkaline water is generated.

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrolyzed water generating unit that generates acidic water and / or alkaline water as electrolyzed water, and a water supply device including the same.

  In a water supply device provided in an ice maker, a drinking water supply device, etc., in consideration of human health, a function to suppress the generation or propagation of bacteria and mold contained in water held in the device, It is required to have a function of sterilizing bacteria and mold. And these functions are exhibited when electrolyzed water is produced | generated by the electrolyzed water production | generation unit with which a water supply apparatus is equipped.

  As a refrigerator equipped with an ice making machine having the above function, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-121058 (Patent Document 1) includes a water storage tank for ice making, and an electrolyzed water generation unit for electrolyzing water in the water storage tank. The electrolyzed water generating unit includes a pair of electrodes, and a refrigerator in which electrolyzed water is generated by applying a voltage between the pair of electrodes is disclosed.

JP 2003-121058 A

  However, in the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, since electrolysis is performed on each of the positive electrode side and the negative electrode side, acidic water generated on the positive electrode side and alkaline water generated on the negative electrode side are stored. It is mixed and neutralized in the tank. For this reason, in the configuration disclosed in Patent Document 1, power necessary for electrolysis is wasted, and the bactericidal effect of acidic electrolyzed water (acidic water) and the cleaning effect of alkaline electrolyzed water (alkaline water) There was a problem that could not be fully demonstrated.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to efficiently generate electrolyzed water and to sufficiently exhibit the sterilization or cleaning effect of the generated electrolyzed water. An object of the present invention is to provide an electrolyzed water generating unit and a water supply device including the same.

  The electrolyzed water generating unit according to the present invention includes a flowing water path through which water flows, an ion adsorption electrode and a metal electrode arranged in the flowing water path, and the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode intersect with the flowing water direction. Acid water or alkaline water is generated by applying a direct current voltage between the ion-adsorbing electrode and the metal electrode.

  The electrolyzed water generating unit according to the present invention preferably further includes an ion exchange resin that is disposed between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode and is capable of flowing the water. The resin preferably includes a cation exchange resin.

  A water supply apparatus according to the present invention is connected to the electrolyzed water generation unit, the water storage tank for storing the water to be introduced into the water flow path, and the water flow path, and is located on the side opposite to the water flow path side. A water supply path for supplying the acidic water or the alkaline water from the end to the outside, and a power supply device that applies a DC voltage to the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode.

  In the water supply device according to the present invention, the power supply device preferably has switching means for switching between positive and negative of a DC voltage applied between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode. The switching means switches alternately the positive / negative of the DC voltage applied between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode, whereby the acidic water and the alkaline water are alternately generated in the electrolyzed water generating unit. It is preferable. Furthermore, in this case, it is preferable that the generated acidic water or alkaline water is supplied to the outside via the water supply path.

  In the water supply apparatus based on the said invention, when the water supply is stopped, it is preferable that the inside of the water supply path is filled with the acidic water.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, while being able to produce | generate electrolyzed water efficiently, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit which can fully exhibit the disinfection or washing | cleaning effect of the produced | generated electrolyzed water, and a water supply apparatus provided with the same can be provided. .

It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction of the electrolyzed water production | generation unit which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction of the electrolyzed water generating unit concerning modification 1. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction parallel to the flowing water direction along the III-III line shown in FIG. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction parallel to the flowing water direction of the electrolyzed water generating unit concerning modification 2. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction of the electrolyzed water production | generation unit which concerns on the modification 3. FIG. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction of the electrolyzed water production | generation unit which concerns on the modification 4. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction parallel to the flowing water direction along the VII-VII line shown in FIG. It is a perspective view of the electrolyzed water production | generation unit shown in FIG. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction parallel to the flowing water direction of the electrolyzed water generating unit concerning modification 5. It is the schematic sectional drawing seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction of the electrolyzed water production | generation unit which concerns on the modification 6. FIG. It is the schematic of the refrigerator which concerns on Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is the schematic of the ice making machine mounted in the refrigerator shown in FIG. It is a perspective view of the ice making machine shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the control structure of the water supply apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows operation | movement of the water supply apparatus shown in FIG. It is the schematic of the drinking water supply apparatus which concerns on Embodiment 3 of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same or common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and description thereof will not be repeated.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention as viewed from a direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction. With reference to FIG. 1, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1 which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 according to the present embodiment includes a flowing water path 2, an ion adsorption electrode 4, a metal electrode 5, and a power supply device 10.

  In the flowing water path 2, water 3 flows in the DR3 direction. The ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 are disposed in the flowing water path 2 and face each other in a direction crossing the flowing water direction (DR3 direction). The power supply device 10 includes a power supply 11 that allows a direct current to flow in one direction (DR11 direction), and is electrically connected to the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5. Specifically, the positive electrode of the power source 11 is connected to the metal electrode 5, and the negative electrode of the power source 11 is connected to the ion adsorption electrode 4.

  The ion adsorption electrode 4 is formed in a flat plate shape and extends along the flowing water direction (DR3 direction). The ion adsorption electrode 4 adsorbs or releases ions reversibly. The ion adsorption electrode 4 was formed by aggregating activated carbon, a conductive sheet formed by aggregating granular activated carbon, a conductive sheet formed by aggregating granular activated carbon and conductive carbon, and activated carbon particles. Activated carbon blocks, activated carbon fiber cloth (Cloth), etc. can be used. When activated carbon having a large surface area is used for the ion adsorption electrode 4 as described above, the charge density per unit area is lowered when a voltage described later is applied, and electrolysis on the ion adsorption electrode 4 side is suppressed. it can.

  The metal electrode 5 is formed in a flat plate shape and extends along the flowing water direction (DR3 direction). The metal electrode 5 is used as a counter electrode of the ion adsorption electrode 4. As the metal electrode 5, for example, an inexpensive good conductor metal such as a nickel material or a titanium material coated with gold or platinum, or gold or platinum can be used.

  In the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 configured as described above, acidic water is generated by applying a DC voltage between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 by the power supply device 10.

Specifically, in the flowing water path 2, on the side of the metal electrode 5 connected to the positive electrode, the water 3 is electrolyzed by a chemical reaction represented by the following formula (1). At this time, since negative ions such as Cl ⁻ ions and SO ₄ ²⁻ ions are attracted to the positive electrode side, H ⁺ ions generated by electrolysis are Cl ⁻ ions, SO ₄ ²⁻ ions and the like in the vicinity of the metal electrode 5. To produce acidic water. In addition, since acidic water has a bactericidal effect, it can sterilize the bacteria and mold in the flowing water path 2, and can suppress generation | occurrence | production and proliferation of bacteria and mold. Further, when there is a route that follows the flowing water route 2, the same effect can be exerted in the route.

2H ₂ O → 4H ⁺ + O ₂ ↑ + 4e ⁻ (1)
On the other hand, electrolysis is not performed on the side of the ion adsorption electrode 4 connected to the negative electrode, and cations such as Na ⁺ ions, Ca ²⁺ ions, and Mg ²⁺ ions are adsorbed on the ion adsorption electrode 4. Since the adsorbed ions are adsorbed to the ion adsorption electrode 4 by Coulomb force, the ion adsorption electrode 4 is used unless a reverse voltage is applied between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 or a short circuit does not occur. Will not be separated from Therefore, it is possible to continue generating acidic water on the metal electrode 5 side until the cation adsorption amount exceeds the ion adsorption allowable amount of the ion adsorption electrode 4. Moreover, since cations such as Ca ²⁺ ions and Mg ²⁺ ions are adsorbed on the ion adsorption electrode 4, the water 3 can be softened.

  It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which the negative electrode of the power supply 11 is connected to the metal electrode 5 and the positive electrode of the power supply 11 is connected to the ion adsorption electrode 4. In such a configuration, alkaline water is generated by applying a DC voltage between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 by the power supply device 10.

Specifically, in the flowing water path 2, on the side of the metal electrode 5 connected to the negative electrode, the water 3 is electrolyzed by a chemical reaction as shown in the following formula (2). At this time, since cations such as Na ⁺ ions and Ca ²⁺ ions are attracted to the negative electrode side, OH ⁻ ions generated by electrolysis are combined with Na ⁺ ions and Ca ²⁺ ions near the metal electrode 5, Alkaline water is produced. In addition, since the alkaline water has a cleaning effect such as removing lipids, the inside of the flowing water path 2 can be cleaned. Further, when there is a route that follows the flowing water route 2, the same effect can be exerted in the route.

2H ₂ O + 2e ⁻ → 2OH ⁻ + H ₂ ↑ (2)
On the other hand, was connected to the positive ion-adsorbing electrode 4 side, the electrolysis is not performed, Cl ^- ions, anions such SO ₄ ^2-ions are adsorbed to the ion-adsorbing electrode 4 by the Coulomb force. Therefore, alkaline water can be continuously generated on the metal electrode 5 side until the adsorption amount of anions exceeds the allowable ion adsorption amount of the ion adsorption electrode 4 as described above.

  With the configuration as described above, in the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 according to the present embodiment, electrolysis is not performed on both the positive electrode side and the negative electrode side, and acidic water or Either alkaline water will be produced. For this reason, it can suppress that acidic water and alkaline water are neutralized in the flowing water path 2. Accordingly, the electrolyzed water can be efficiently generated without wasting power, and the produced electrolyzed water can be sufficiently sterilized or washed.

(Modification 1)
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Modification 1 as viewed from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view seen from a direction parallel to the flowing water direction along the line III-III shown in FIG. With reference to FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1A which concerns on this modification is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1A according to the present modification has an arrangement of the ion adsorption electrode 4A and the metal electrode 5A and the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 according to the first embodiment and The shape is different.

  Specifically, in the electrolyzed water generating unit 1A, the ion adsorption electrode 4A is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the metal electrode 5A is formed in a columnar shape. The ion adsorption electrode 4A and the metal electrode 5A are arranged so that their central axes are coaxial. Specifically, the metal electrode 5 </ b> A is disposed at the approximate center of the flowing water path 2, and the ion adsorption electrode 4 </ b> A is disposed along the inner wall of the flowing water path 2. Further, the peripheral surface of the metal electrode 5A and the inner surface of the ion adsorption electrode 4A are opposed to each other in a direction intersecting the flowing water direction (DR3 direction).

  In such a form, the distance between the ion adsorption electrode 4A and the metal electrode 5A can be easily made uniform, and the surface area of the ion adsorption electrode 4A can be increased. Thereby, the ion in the water 3 can be uniformly adsorbed on the surface of the ion adsorption electrode 4A when a voltage is applied, and the ion adsorption allowable amount can be increased.

  As described above, in the present modification, substantially the same effect as that of the electrolyzed water generating unit 1A according to Embodiment 1 can be obtained, and the time during which electrolyzed water can be generated by increasing the surface area of the ion adsorption electrode 4A is increased. It can be made even longer.

(Modification 2)
FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Modification 2 as viewed from a direction parallel to the flowing water direction. With reference to FIG. 4, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1B which concerns on this modification is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when compared with the electrolyzed water generating unit 1A according to the modified example 1, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1B according to the present modified example has a conductive member 7 and a connection electrode 8 on the outer periphery of the ion adsorption electrode 4A. Are different in that they are arranged.

  Specifically, in the flowing water path 2, the conductive member 7 is disposed so that the inner surface thereof is in contact with the outer surface of the ion adsorption electrode 4 </ b> A, and the connection electrode 8 is in contact with the outer surface of the conductive member 7. Are arranged to be.

  As the conductive member 7, for example, a member that has conductivity and does not allow moisture to pass therethrough, such as a carbon particle-containing resin, can be employed. The connection electrode 8 is a part for passing a current to the ion adsorption electrode 4A, and for example, a metal of a good conductor can be used. With this configuration, the connection electrode 8 is not in contact with water, and a current can flow through the ion adsorption electrode via the conductive member 7, so that the connection electrode 8 is electrolyzed. Can be prevented. As a result, ions are efficiently adsorbed to the ion adsorption electrode 4A.

  As described above, also in the electrolyzed water generating unit 1B according to the present modified example, substantially the same effect as that of the electrolyzed water generating unit 1A according to the modified example 1 can be obtained, and electrolysis at the connection electrode 8 can be prevented. it can.

(Modification 3)
FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Modification 3 as seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction. With reference to FIG. 5, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1C which concerns on this modification is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 </ b> C according to the present modification has a gap between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 when compared with the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 according to the first embodiment. The ion exchange resin 6 is different in that it is arranged so that water can flow.

The ion exchange resin 6 includes a cation exchange resin. For example, Diaion (registered trademark) SK1C manufactured by Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation can be employed as the cation exchange resin. The cation exchange resin has a cation group as an exchange group, releases a cation in the cation group, and adsorbs a cation (Ca ²⁺ ion, Mg ²⁺ ion) in the water 3. For this reason, the ion exchange resin 6 can soften the water 3 by the ion exchange action of the cation exchange resin even when no voltage is applied to the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5.

The cation exchange resin contained in the ion exchange resin 6 is preferably a salt type such as Na type. In this case, since Na ⁺ ions and the like are released without releasing H ⁺ ions, softening can be performed without changing the pH value of water 3 when no voltage is applied. Become. In addition, the ion exchange resin 6 described later can be easily regenerated.

  Furthermore, as the ion exchange resin 6, a mixed bed type obtained by mixing a cation exchange resin and an anion exchange resin can be adopted, and a strong acid cation exchange resin, a weak acid cation exchange resin, a strong acid cation exchange resin, A basic anion exchange resin and a weak basic anion exchange resin can be appropriately combined. In such a configuration, even if the ion exchange resin 6 is not a salt type, the pH value of the water 3 is not easily changed and can be desalted, so that water with higher purity is generated. be able to. In addition, when mixing a cation exchange resin and an anion exchange resin, it is preferable that both a cation exchange resin and an anion exchange resin are salt types, and an anion exchange resin is salt types, such as Cl type. It is preferable.

  Moreover, in such a structure, the ion exchange resin 6 has both a cation group and an anion group as an exchange group. Therefore, when anion is adsorbed on the ion adsorption electrode 4 to generate alkaline water, the anion released from the anion exchange resin functions as an electrolyte, and the ion adsorption electrode 4 adsorbs a cation to be acidic. When water is generated, the cation released from the cation exchange resin functions as an electrolyte. Thus, the ion exchange resin 6 adsorbs cations or anions in water and functions as a current-carrying medium for passing a current between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5. Thereby, electrolysis is efficiently performed without adding an auxiliary electrolyte separately. For this reason, electrolyzed water can be efficiently generated regardless of whether alkaline water or acidic water is generated.

More specifically, cations such as Ca ²⁺ ions and Mg ²⁺ ions in water 3 are adsorbed to the Na-type cation exchange resin, and Na ⁺ ions are released from the cation exchange resin. Further, water _SO ^{4 2-ions,} _PO ^{4 3-} ions, NO ₃ ^- anions, such as ion adsorbed on the Cl type anion exchange resin, Cl ^- ions are released from the anion exchange resin . In this way, since the ionic substance in the water 3 can be maintained, a decrease in electrical conductivity can be prevented.

  Moreover, the ion exchange resin 6 has a shape in which minute granular cation exchange resins and anion exchange resins are assembled as a structure capable of flowing water. For example, a cation exchange resin and an anion exchange resin have a granular shape with a diameter of about 300 to 1000 μm. The structure capable of flowing water is not limited to the above structure, and the ion exchange resin 6 may be formed in a porous shape in which a plurality of holes communicate from upstream to downstream, or the ion exchange resin 6 is granular. The cation exchange resin may be used alone.

  As described above, in this modification, substantially the same effect as that of the electrolyzed water generation unit 1A according to Embodiment 1 can be obtained. Furthermore, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1C according to the present modification can soften the water 3 even when no voltage is applied. When the voltage is applied, the ion exchange of the ion exchange resin 6 is performed. Electrolyzed water can be generated more efficiently by the action.

  In the case where the salt type ion exchange resin 6 such as Na type is used, a sodium chloride aqueous solution can be used in the regeneration treatment. The resin 6 can be regenerated. Since the sodium chloride aqueous solution is generally widely used, the user can easily perform the regeneration treatment.

  Further, when the ion exchange resin 6 is configured as a granular aggregate, the ion exchange cartridge in which the ion exchange resin 6 is accommodated in a case or bag having a mesh diameter smaller than the particle diameter is the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode. 5 may be arranged in a gap between the two. The case or bag is preferably composed of a resin or cloth having acid resistance and alkali resistance. As the resin, for example, a resin such as PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) or PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) can be adopted.

  In such a case, by making the ion exchange cartridge detachable from the electrolyzed water generating unit, the ion exchange cartridge can be taken out independently and subjected to a regeneration process. Thereby, since only an ion exchange cartridge can be immersed in regeneration solutions, such as sodium chloride aqueous solution, corrosion and deterioration of the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 by a regeneration solution can be prevented. Furthermore, since the ion exchange resin can be handled in units of cartridges, handling becomes easy.

(Modification 4)
FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Modification 4 as seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction. FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view seen from a direction parallel to the flowing water direction along the line VII-VII shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the electrolyzed water generating unit shown in FIG. The electrolyzed water generating unit 1D according to this modification will be described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8. FIG.

  As shown in FIGS. 6, 7, and 8, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 </ b> D according to the present modified example has an ion adsorption when compared with the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 </ b> A according to the modified example 1 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. The difference is that a substantially cylindrical ion exchange resin 6A is disposed in the gap between the electrode 4A and the metal electrode 5A so that water can flow. The ion exchange resin 6A has the same configuration as that of the ion exchange resin 6 shown in the third modification.

  In such a configuration, since the distance between the ion adsorption electrode 4A and the metal electrode 5A is constant, the ion exchange resin 6A uniformly adsorbs cations or anions in the water 3 in the circumferential direction for exchange. Release cations or anions from the group. Therefore, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1D according to the present modification can obtain substantially the same effect as the electrolyzed water generating unit 1A according to the modified example 3, and can generate electrolyzed water more efficiently.

(Modification 5)
FIG. 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Modification 5 as viewed from a direction parallel to the flowing water direction. With reference to FIG. 9, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1E which concerns on this modification is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 9, when compared with the electrolyzed water generating unit 1D according to the modified example 4, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1E according to the present modified example is connected to the conductive member 7 and the connection on the outer periphery of the ion adsorption electrode 4A. The difference is that the electrode 8 is disposed.

  By adopting such a configuration, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1E according to the present modification can obtain substantially the same effect as the electrolyzed water generating unit 1D according to the modified example 4, and also prevents electrolysis at the connection electrode 8. can do.

(Modification 6)
FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Modification 6 as seen from the direction orthogonal to the flowing water direction. With reference to FIG. 10, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1F which concerns on this modification is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1F according to the present modification is different from the electrolyzed water generating unit 1C according to the modified example 3 shown in FIG.

  The power supply device 10F of the electrolyzed water generating unit 1F according to the modification 6 includes a control unit 15, power supplies 11 and 12, and selection switches 13 and 14 as switching means. The power supply 11 passes a direct current in one direction (DR11 direction) with respect to the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5. On the other hand, the power supply 12 passes a direct current through the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 in the direction opposite to the power supply 11 (DR12 direction). More specifically, the positive electrode of the power source 11 is connected to the metal electrode 5, and the negative electrode of the power source 11 is connected to the ion adsorption electrode 4. The negative electrode of the power source 12 is connected to the metal electrode 5, and the positive electrode of the power source 12 is connected to the ion adsorption electrode 4. The power supplies 11 and 12 are connected in parallel via the selection switches 13 and 14. The selection switches 13 and 14 are connected to the power supplies 11 and 12 and select the power supplies 11 and 12. The control unit 15 controls the on / off state of the selection switches 13 and 14 to switch between the positive and negative DC voltages applied between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5. Note that the power supply device 10F may not include both the power supply 11 and the power supply 12, and may include, for example, one power supply 11 and a switch that can reverse the polarity of the power supply 11, that is, the ion adsorption electrode 4 Any configuration that can switch between positive and negative DC voltage applied to the metal electrode 5 and on / off of DC voltage application may be used.

  When the selection switch 13 is in an on state and the selection switch 14 is in an off state, electrolysis based on the above-described equation (1) is performed, and acidic water is generated. On the other hand, when the selection switch 13 is in an off state and the selection switch 14 is in an on state, electrolysis based on the above-described equation (2) is performed, and alkaline water is generated. As described above, the positive and negative DC voltages applied by the selection switches 13 and 14 are alternately switched, so that acidic water and alkaline water are alternately generated.

In addition, in the case of generating alkaline water from newly flowing water after generating acidic water first, a reverse DC voltage is applied to the ion adsorption electrode 4, so that the adsorbed cation and ion adsorption The polarity with the electrode 4 is the same. Thereby, cations such as Ca ²⁺ and Mg ²⁺ ions adsorbed on the ion adsorption electrode 4 during the generation of acidic water are repelled by the Coulomb force and released from the ion adsorption electrode 4. As a result, it is possible to regenerate the ion adsorption electrode 4 and to prevent the ion adsorption electrode 4 from generating scale. Further, a part of the released cation is adsorbed on the ion exchange resin 6, and is used as if an auxiliary electrolyte was added at the time of the next electrolysis. Thereby, electrolysis can be performed more efficiently. On the other hand, the remaining part of the released cations is released into water. Thereby, alkaline ion with high hardness can be produced | generated. In addition, since the substances that can be washed differ depending on the hardness of the alkaline water, by appropriately adjusting the amount of cations adsorbed on the ion adsorption electrode 4A during the generation of acidic water and the amount of cations released into the alkaline water production water The desired material can be washed.

  As described above, the electrolyzed water generating unit 1F according to the present modification can obtain substantially the same effect as the electrolyzed water generating unit 1C according to the third modification. In addition, since acidic water or alkali-generated water can be generated alternately, the bactericidal effect of acidic water and the cleaning effect of alkali-generated water can be exhibited.

  In Embodiment 1 and Modifications 1 to 6 described above, the configuration in which the electrolyzed water generation unit includes a power supply device has been described as an example. However, the configuration is not limited thereto, and the power supply device is not provided. It is good also as a structure. In this case, the power supply used in the drinking water supply device or the refrigerator provided with the electrolyzed water generation unit can be used as a power supply device that applies a DC voltage between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode. . By connecting the positive electrode and the negative electrode of the power source to the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode, a DC voltage can be applied between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode.

  Moreover, the power supply device 10F shown in the above-described modification 6 can be used in place of the power supply device 10 included in the electrolyzed water generating unit according to the first embodiment and the modifications 1 to 5. In this case, acidic water and alkaline water can be generated alternately in the electrolyzed water generating unit according to Embodiment 1 and Modifications 1 to 5.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of a refrigerator according to the second embodiment of the present invention. With reference to FIG. 11, the refrigerator 100 which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the refrigerator 100 according to the second embodiment includes a housing 103 including a main body 101 and an opening / closing door 102, a refrigerating chamber 110 formed by dividing the inside of the main body 101 by a partition wall 104, ice making The room 120, the freezer room 121, and the vegetable room 130 are provided. Further, the refrigerator 100 includes an ice making machine 170 having a water supply device 150 and an ice making unit 160.

  An open / close door 102 is provided in front of the refrigerator compartment 110, the ice making compartment 120, the freezer compartment 121, and the vegetable compartment 130 so as to be opened and closed. The refrigerator 100 includes a refrigeration cycle 140 and a cooling fan 143 that are configured by sequentially connecting a compressor 141, a condenser (not shown), a decompression device (not shown), and an evaporator 142 provided on the back side.

  When the compressor 141 is driven, the refrigerant compressed to a high temperature and high pressure state flows from the compressor 141 into the condenser and is liquefied. The liquefied refrigerant is depressurized through the depressurization device, becomes a low temperature, and flows into the evaporator 142. The refrigerant that has flowed into the evaporator 142 is vaporized by removing heat from the surroundings, and then returns to the compressor 141. The gas around the evaporator 142 that has been deprived of heat and cooled is blown into the cabinet by the cooling fan 143. Thereby, the refrigerator compartment 110, the ice making room 120, the freezer compartment 121, and the vegetable compartment 130 are cooled. The ice making chamber 120 and the freezing chamber 121 are cooled such that the room temperature is below the freezing point.

  In the water supply device 150, the water storage tank 151 is mainly arranged in the refrigerator compartment 110, and the ice making unit 160 is arranged in the ice making room 120. The water supply device 150 supplies water for ice making to the ice making unit 160.

  FIG. 12 is a schematic view of an ice making machine mounted in the refrigerator shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the ice making machine shown in FIG. With reference to FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, ice maker 170 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the ice making machine 170 includes the water supply device 150 and the ice making unit 160 as described above. Water supply device 150 includes water storage tank 151, electrolyzed water generation unit 1 according to Embodiment 1, water supply pump 155, water supply path 152, water stop valve 153, control unit 156 (see FIG. 14), and power supply device 157 (see FIG. 14). ). The ice making unit 160 has an ice making tray 161.

  The water storage tank 151 stores water for ice making and introduces the water into the flowing water path 2 of the electrolyzed water generation unit 1. The water storage tank 151 is detachably attached to the refrigerating chamber 110, and when replenishing water to the water storage tank 151, the user opens the door 102 and takes out the water storage tank 151 from the refrigerating chamber 110. Can do.

  The water supply path 152 is connected to the flowing water path 2 and has a water supply port 154 at the end opposite to the flowing water path 2 side. The water supply port 154 is located above the ice tray 161 in the ice making chamber. Further, a water stop valve 153 is disposed in the vicinity of the water supply port 154.

  The water supply pump 155 is provided in the water supply path 152. The water supply pump 155 sucks the water in the water storage tank 151 and sends the sucked water toward the ice making unit 160. Further, the amount of water per unit time passing through the flowing water path 2 can be made constant by the water supply pump 155, and the pH value of the generated acidic water or alkaline water can be stabilized. The sucked water is introduced into the flowing water path 2 of the electrolyzed water generating unit 1. The water introduced into the flowing water path 2 is electrolyzed when a DC voltage is applied between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 to generate acidic water or alkaline water. The generated acidic water or alkaline water is filled in the water supply path 152, and a necessary amount is supplied to the ice tray 161 from the water supply port 154 by opening and closing the water stop valve 153. The supplied acidic water or alkaline water spreads throughout the ice tray 161 through a notch 162 formed in the ice tray 161.

  As described above, in the water supply apparatus according to the present embodiment, since acidic water or alkaline water passes through the water supply path 152, bacteria and mold in the water supply path 152 can be sterilized by the acidic water. Moreover, the inside of the water supply path 152 can be washed with alkaline water.

  In addition, since it is difficult for the user to attach or detach the water supply path 152 directly, the water supply path 152 can be easily sterilized or cleaned by providing the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 on the upstream side of the water supply path 152. Furthermore, since the complicated structure which can attach or detach the water supply path 152 becomes unnecessary, manufacturing cost can be reduced.

  FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a control configuration of the water supply apparatus shown in FIG. With reference to FIG. 14, the control structure of the water supply apparatus 150 is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the water supply apparatus 150 includes a water level detection unit 152a and a pH value detection unit 152b. The water level detection means 152 a and the pH value detection means 152 b are provided in the water supply path 152. The water level detection means 152a and the pH value detection means 152b detect the water level and pH value in the water supply path 152. The water level detection means 152a and the pH value detection means 152b are arranged in the vicinity of the water stop valve 153 and upstream of the water stop valve 153 in order to check whether the water supply path 152 is filled with water. It is preferable.

  The power supply device 157 includes switching means 158. The power supply device 157 corresponds to the power supply device 10F according to Modification 6 described above, and the switching unit 158 corresponds to the selection switches 13 and 14 included in the power supply device 10F. The power supply device 157 is connected to the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 of the electrolyzed water generation unit 1, and applies a DC voltage to the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5. Further, the power supply device 157 has a switching unit 158 and can switch between positive and negative voltages applied between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5. Instead of the power supply device 157, the power supply of the refrigerator 100 outside the water supply device 150 may be used.

  Detection information detected by the water level detection unit 152a and the pH value detection unit 152b is input to the control unit 156. Based on the detection information, the control unit 156 controls the stop valve 153, the water supply pump 155, and the switching unit 158 of the power supply device 157.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the water supply apparatus shown in FIG. With reference to FIG. 15, operation | movement of the water supply apparatus 150 is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 15, first, in step (S1), the control unit 156 determines whether or not the water supply path 152 is filled with acidic water. Specifically, the water level and pH value are detected by the water level detection means 152a and the pH value detection means 152b. When it is determined that there is acidic water in the water supply path 152 (step S1; YES), the control unit 156 executes the step (S2). When it is determined that there is no acidic water in the water supply path 152 (step S1; No), the control unit executes the step (S4).

  Subsequently, in the step (S2), the control unit 156 opens the water stop valve 153 and discharges the acidic water in the water supply path 2 from the water supply port 154. The discharged water is collected or discarded via a discharge path (not shown).

  Next, in the step (S3), the control unit 156 determines whether or not acidic water is filled in the water supply path 152 by the above-described means. When it is determined that there is no acidic water in the water supply path 152 (step S3; YES), the control unit 156 executes the step (S4). On the other hand, when it is determined that there is acidic water in the water supply path 152 (step S3; NO), the control unit 156 continues the discharge operation until there is no acidic water in the water supply path 152.

  Subsequently, in the step (S4), the control unit 156 operates the water supply pump 155 and generates alkaline water. At this time, the control unit 156 controls the switching unit 158 of the power supply device 157 so that the metal electrode 5 side of the electrolyzed water generating unit 1 becomes a negative electrode (so that a direct current flows in the DR12 direction described above).

  Next, in the step (S5), the control unit 156 determines whether or not the production regulation state 1 has been reached by the water level detection means 152a and the pH value detection means 152b described above. Here, the production | generation regulation state 1 refers to the state by which the alkaline water of about half of the capacity | capacitance of the ice tray 161 was produced | generated, and the produced | generated alkaline water is filled in the water supply path | route 152. FIG. In the production regulation state 1, when the capacity of the water supply path 152 is smaller than half of the capacity of the ice tray 161, a part of the generated alkaline water is supplied to the ice tray 161. On the other hand, when the capacity of the water supply path 152 is more than half the capacity of the ice tray 161, all or part of the water supply path 152 is filled with the generated alkaline water.

  When it is determined that the production regulation state 1 in which alkaline water of approximately half the capacity of the ice tray 161 has been produced is reached (step S5; YES), the control unit 156 executes the step (S6). . On the other hand, when it is determined that the production regulation state 1 has not been reached (step S5; NO), the control unit 156 continues the operation until the production regulation state 1 is reached, and produces alkaline water. The predetermined amount of alkaline water can be generated by investigating the relationship between the flow rate flowing in the flowing water path 2 and the voltage application time in advance and setting these conditions as appropriate.

  Subsequently, in the step (S6), the control unit 156 generates acidic water. At this time, the control unit 156 controls the switching unit 158 of the power supply device 157 so that the metal electrode 5 side of the electrolyzed water generation unit 1 becomes a positive electrode (so that a direct current flows in the DR11 direction described above). In addition, the control unit 156 supplies the alkaline water generated in the step (S5) to the ice tray 161 while generating acidic water. At this time, the alkaline water cleans the water supply path 152 while passing through the water supply path.

  Next, in step (S7), the control unit 156 determines whether or not the production regulation state 2 has been reached by the water level detection means 152a and the pH value detection means 152b described above. Here, the production regulation state 2 is a state in which acidic water of approximately half of the capacity of the ice tray 161 is supplied to the ice tray 161 and a state in which the generated acidic water is filled in the water supply path 152. Point to. When it is determined that the generation regulation state 2 has been reached (step S7; YES), the control unit 156 executes the step (S8). On the other hand, when it is determined that the production regulation state 2 has not been reached (step S7; NO), the control unit 156 continues the operation until the production regulation state 2 is reached, and produces acidic water. The predetermined amount of acidic water can be generated by investigating the relationship between the flow rate flowing in the flowing water path 2 and the voltage application time in advance and setting these conditions appropriately.

  When the production regulation state 2 is reached, approximately the same amount of alkaline water and acidic water are supplied to the ice tray 161. For this reason, the alkaline water and the acidic water in the ice tray 161 are neutralized to generate neutral water.

  Subsequently, in the step (S8), the control unit 156 stops the generation of acidic water. At this time, the control unit 156 stops the operation of the water supply pump 155 and closes the water stop valve 153. Thereby, operation | movement of the water supply apparatus 150 can be stopped, maintaining the state with which the water supply path 152 was filled with acidic water.

  As described above, in the water supply apparatus 150 according to the present embodiment, after the generated alkaline water passes through the water supply path 152, the generated acidic water passes through the water supply path 152 and the water supply apparatus 150. Is stopped, the water supply path 152 is filled. For this reason, in the water supply apparatus 150, while being able to wash | clean the inside of the water supply path | route 152, the bacteria and mold | fungi in the water supply path | route 152 can be sterilized, and generation | occurrence | production or reproduction of bacteria and mold is suppressed until the next water supply. can do.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a drinking water supply apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. With reference to FIG. 16, the drinking water supply apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 16, drinking water supply apparatus 200 according to the present embodiment includes water supply tank 20, heat pump 30, and water supply apparatus 40.

  The water supply tank 20 has a mouth portion 21 through which water is led out, and is arranged at a predetermined position so that the mouth portion 21 faces the water supply device 40.

  The water supply apparatus 40 includes a water storage tank 41, the electrolyzed water generation unit 1 according to Embodiment 1, a water supply path 42, a water stop valve 43, a power supply apparatus 47, a water supply pump 45, and a control unit 46. Moreover, the water storage tank 41, the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1, and the water supply path | route 42 are arrange | positioned in order from the upstream to the downstream in the flowing water direction. The water supply device 40 includes a water level detection means (not shown) and a pH value detection means (not shown) in the water supply path 42.

  The water storage tank 41 stores the water led out from the water supply tank 20 and introduces the water into the flowing water path 2 of the electrolyzed water generation unit 1. The water supply path 42 is connected to the flowing water path 2 and has a water supply port 44 at the end opposite to the flowing water path 2 side. A water stop valve 43 is disposed in the vicinity of the water supply port 44. Further, a water supply pump 45 is provided in the water supply path 42. The water supply pump 45 sucks the water in the water storage tank 41 and sends the sucked water toward the water supply port 44. Further, the amount of water per unit time passing through the flowing water path 2 can be made constant by the water supply pump 45, and the pH value of the generated acidic water or alkaline water can be stabilized.

  The power supply device 47 is connected to the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 of the electrolyzed water generation unit 1, and applies a DC voltage to the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5. In addition, the power supply device 47 includes a means 48 corresponding to the switching means according to the sixth modification, and can switch between positive and negative voltages applied between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5.

  The water in the water supply tank 20 is led out to the water storage tank 41, and is led out until the end surface 22 of the mouth portion 21 coincides with the water surface in the water storage tank 41. The water in the water storage tank 41 is consumed by being sucked by the water supply pump 45 and introduced into the flowing water path 2 of the electrolyzed water generation unit 1. On the other hand, since the introduced amount of water is replenished from the water supply tank 20, the water level in the water storage tank 41 is kept constant.

  The water introduced into the flowing water path 2 is electrolyzed when a voltage is applied between the ion adsorption electrode 4 and the metal electrode 5 to generate acidic water or alkaline water. The generated acidic water or alkaline water is filled in the water supply path 42, and the required amount is supplied to the external container 51 from the water supply port 44 by opening and closing the water stop valve 43.

  The heat pump 30 is configured by sequentially connecting a compressor 31, a condenser 33, a decompression device 34, and a heat absorption part 35 (corresponding to the above-described evaporator 142) through a refrigerant pipe 32. The condenser 33 is disposed on the rear outer shell wall of the drinking water supply apparatus 200, and heat is radiated from the rear outer shell wall. The heat absorption part 35 has a spiral shape along the outer periphery of the water storage tank 41. By operating the heat pump 30, the water in the water storage tank 41 can be cooled. A four-way valve (not shown) may be installed in the heat pump 30 so that hot water can be supplied instead of cold water as necessary.

  Detection information detected by the water level detection means and the pH value detection means is input to the control unit 46. The control unit 46 controls the switching unit 48 of the water stop valve 43, the water supply pump 45, and the power supply device 47 based on the detection information.

  As described above, water supply device 40 according to the third embodiment has substantially the same configuration as water supply device 150 according to the second embodiment. Therefore, the water supply apparatus 40 according to the third embodiment can also operate based on the same flow as the water supply apparatus 150 according to the second embodiment. As a result, the water supply apparatus 40 according to the third embodiment can obtain substantially the same effect as the water supply apparatus 150 according to the second embodiment.

  In particular, when the water supply apparatus 40 is stopped, the water supply path 42 can be filled with acidic water. In this case, generation or propagation of bacteria and mold in the water supply path 42 can be suppressed by the sterilizing effect of the acidic water.

  In addition, in Embodiment 2 and 3 mentioned above, although the case where the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1 was the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1 which concerns on Embodiment 1 was illustrated and demonstrated, it is not limited to this, The modification 1 Alternatively, an electrolyzed water generating unit according to 6 may be employed.

  Moreover, in Embodiment 2 and 3 mentioned above, although the case where the electrolyzed water production | generation unit 1 was directly connected to the water storage tanks 41 and 151 was illustrated and demonstrated, it is not limited to this, The water storage tanks 41 and 151 and Between the electrolyzed water generation unit 1, a path through which water such as a pipe flows may be provided.

  Furthermore, in Embodiment 2 and 3 mentioned above, alkaline water is produced | generated, after discharging | emitting and collecting or discarding the acidic water with which the water supply path 152 and 42 was filled in process (S1) to process (S3). Although the case has been described by way of example, the present invention is not limited to this, and alkaline water may be generated in the step (S4) while discharging acidic water from the water supply paths 152 and.

  In addition, in Embodiments 2 and 3 described above, the case where the acidic water filled in the water supply paths 152 and 42 is discharged and collected or discarded in the step (S2) has been described as an example. Without being limited thereto, all or part of the discharged acidic water may be supplied to the ice tray 161 and the container 51. In this case, it is preferable to supply approximately half or less of the capacity of the ice tray 161 and the container 51. At this time, the amount of the acidic water supplied to the ice tray 161 and the container 51 is set to the ice tray 161 and the container 51. In the step (S6) or step (S7), the amount of acidic water subtracted from about half of the capacity of 51 is supplied to the ice tray 161 and the container 51.

  Moreover, in Embodiment 2 and 3 mentioned above, although the case where neutral water was produced | generated in the ice tray 161 and the container 51 was illustrated and demonstrated, it is not limited to this, A water supply path | route at the time of a water supply apparatus stop As long as the insides of 152 and 42 are filled with acidic water, the final water in the ice tray 161 and the container 51 may be acidic or alkaline. For example, the amount of acidic water necessary to fill the water supply paths 152 and 42 may be generated just before the water supply device is stopped, and electrolytic water may not be generated in the water supply. In this case, the operation time of the electrolyzed water generating unit can be greatly reduced, power consumption can be reduced, and electrode deterioration due to generation of scale on the ion-adsorbing electrode or corrosion of the metal electrode can be reduced. If the ice tray 161 and the container 51 can be tasted as neutral water or alkaline water, an activated carbon or a hollow fiber filter may be provided near the water supply ports 154 and 44 to adsorb the salt. Good.

  Furthermore, in Embodiment 3 mentioned above, although demonstrated when exemplifying the case where a control part controls operation | movement of the water stop valve 43, it is not limited to this, It pushes on the lever provided in the lower part of the water supply port 44. The structure which a water stop valve is opened by applying may be sufficient. In this case, step (S1) and step (S3) are omitted. Specifically, first, in step (S2), the water stop valve 43 is opened and the acidic water in the water supply path 42 is discharged, while alkaline water is generated in step (S4).

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and non-restrictive in every respect. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, and includes meanings equivalent to the terms of the claims and all modifications within the scope.

  1, 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, 1E, 1F Electrolyzed water generation unit, 2 flowing water path, 3 water, 4, 4A ion adsorption electrode, 5, 5A metal electrode, 6 ion exchange resin, 10, 10F power supply device, 11 , 12 Power supply, 13, 14 selection switch, 15 Control unit, 20 Water supply tank, 21 Port, 22 End face, 30 Heat pump, 31 Compressor, 32 Refrigerant pipe, 33 Condenser, 34 Pressure reducing device, 35 Heat absorption unit, 40 Water supply device, 41 Water storage tank, 42 Water supply path, 43 Water stop valve, 44 Water supply port, 46 Control unit, 100 Cooling room, 101 Main body, 102 Open / close door, 103 Housing, 104 Partition wall, 110 Refrigeration room, 120 Ice making room, 121 freezer room, 130 vegetable room, 140 refrigeration cycle, 141 compressor, 142 evaporator, 143 cooling fan, 150 water supply device, 51 water storage tank, 152 water supply path, 152a water level detection means, 152b value detection means, 153 stop valve, 154 water supply port, 155 water supply pump, 156 control unit, 157 power supply unit, 158 switching means, 160 ice making unit, 161 ice tray 162, notch, 170 ice making machine, 200 drinking water supply device.

Claims (5)

A flowing water path,
An ion adsorption electrode and a metal electrode disposed in the flowing water path,
The ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode are arranged so as to face each other in a direction intersecting the flowing water direction,
An electrolyzed water generation unit in which acidic water or alkaline water is generated by applying a DC voltage between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode. An ion-exchange resin disposed between the ion-adsorbing electrode and the metal electrode and capable of flowing the water;
The electrolyzed water generating unit according to claim 1, wherein the ion exchange resin includes a cation exchange resin. The electrolyzed water generating unit according to claim 1 or 2,
A water storage tank for storing the water for introduction into the flowing water path;
A water supply path that is connected to the water flow path and supplies the acidic water or the alkaline water from the end located on the side opposite to the water flow path side to the outside,
A water supply device comprising: a power supply device that applies a DC voltage to the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode. The power supply device has switching means for switching between positive and negative of a DC voltage applied between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode,
The acidic water and the alkaline water are alternately generated in the electrolyzed water generating unit by alternately switching the DC voltage applied between the ion adsorption electrode and the metal electrode by the switching means. The water supply device according to claim 3, wherein the generated acidic water or alkaline water is supplied to the outside via the water supply path.   The water supply device according to claim 4, wherein the water supply path is filled with the acidic water when water supply is stopped.

Images