JP2016215135A - Electrolysis water generator - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrolysis water generator capable of supplying water in a hygienic state.SOLUTION: An electrolysis water generator 10 comprises: a pure water generation part 33 for introducing raw water for generating pure water; a storage part 40 for storing the pure water generated by the pure water generation part 33; an electrolysis tank 52 capable of introducing the pure water which passes the storage part 40 and performing electrolytic treatment to the pure water; and an ultraviolet radiation part 53 for introducing the water which passes the electrolysis tank 52 and radiating ultraviolet. The ultraviolet radiation part 53 has an ultraviolet light source 53a for radiating the ultraviolet. Then the ultraviolet which is radiated from the ultraviolet light source 53a can be radiated to the pure water in the storage part 40.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to an electrolyzed water generating apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as an electrolyzed water generation device, a device including a water purification unit that introduces raw water to generate purified water and a storage tank that stores purified water that has been purified by passing through the water purification unit is known (for example, a patent) Reference 1).

  In this patent document 1, the water purification part is incorporated in the inside of the storage tank, and the purified water purified by passing through this water purification part is stored in the storage tank. As described above, in Patent Document 1, it is possible to supply a sufficient amount of purified water by purifying water that takes time and labor in advance when storing water in the storage tank and storing the purified water in the storage tank. I have to.

JP 2006-035108 A

  However, in the above conventional technique, since purified water is stored in the storage tank, there is a possibility that various germs propagate in the storage tank.

  Then, an object of this invention is to obtain the electrolyzed water generating apparatus which can supply water more hygienically.

  The electrolyzed water generating apparatus of the present invention introduces raw water into a purified water part that generates purified water, a storing part that stores purified water generated in the purified water part, and introduces purified water that has passed through the storing part to perform electrolytic treatment. And an ultraviolet irradiation unit that introduces water that has passed through the electrolytic cell to irradiate ultraviolet rays, and the ultraviolet irradiation unit has an ultraviolet light source that irradiates ultraviolet rays, The ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source can be irradiated to the purified water in the reservoir.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus which can supply water more hygienically can be obtained.

It is a figure which shows typically the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows typically the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows typically the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention, Comprising: (a) is a front view, (b) is a side view, (c) is a top view. It is a perspective view which shows typically the housing of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a perspective view which shows typically the storage tank of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the window part formed in the storage tank and the window part formed in the housing of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the state by which ultraviolet rays are irradiated to the storage tank from the UV irradiation tank of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is an enlarged front view which shows typically the inflow port and outflow port to a storage tank in the electrolyzed water generating apparatus concerning one Embodiment of this invention.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the side on which the operation portion of the housing is formed is described as the front in the front-rear direction.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the electrolyzed water generating device 10 according to the present embodiment includes a water supply device 30, a water discharge device 50, and a storage tank (storage unit) 40 that connects the water supply device 30 and the water discharge device 50. doing. In the present embodiment, a water channel 60 is formed in the electrolyzed water generating device 10, and the water supply device 30 and the water discharge device 50 are connected to a storage tank (storage unit) 40 by the water channel 60. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 1, a water supply path 61 is formed in the water supply device 30, and a water discharge path 62 is formed in the water discharge device 50, and the water supply path 61 and the water discharge path 62 are stored in a storage tank (storage). The water supply device 30 and the water discharge device 50 are connected to the storage tank (storage portion) 40 by being connected to the storage portion 40.

  Furthermore, the electrolyzed water generating device 10 has a control device 70 that controls the operation of the water supply device 30 and the operation of the water discharge device 50.

  The water supply device 30 includes a first valve 31, a first pump 32, and a water purification unit 33. The water supply device 30 is a device that supplies purified water to the storage tank 40. That is, purified water is generated by introducing and purifying raw water such as tap water into the water purification unit 33 provided in the water supply device 30, and the purified water purified by the water purification unit 33 is introduced into the storage tank (storage unit) 40. To be stored.

  The first valve 31, the first pump 32, and the water purification unit 33 are installed in a water supply path 61 formed in the water supply device 30. In this embodiment, the 1st valve 31, the 1st pump 32, and the water purification part 33 are installed in order from the upstream of the water supply path 61. FIG. In addition, a raw water inlet 61 a into which raw water such as tap water is introduced from a raw water distribution pipe such as a water pipe is formed on the upstream side of the water supply path 61, and a water supply device 30 is provided on the downstream side of the water supply path 61. An inlet 61b for introducing the purified water that has passed through the storage tank (storage section) 40 is formed. The raw water is not limited to tap water, and may be well water or pool water.

  The raw water inlet 61a is an inlet for introducing water from a water source such as a water supply, and is provided in a side portion of the housing (main body) 20 in which the water supply device 30 is accommodated. Normally, a hose extending from the tap of the water supply is inserted into the raw water introduction port 61 a side of the water supply channel 61 and fixed with a band so that water from the water source is introduced into the water supply channel 61.

  In the present embodiment, water from the water source is not directly introduced into the water supply channel 61, but water filtered in advance by the filtration unit (coarse filtration unit) 80 is introduced as raw water from the raw water inlet 61a. ing. That is, by connecting the upstream side of the water channel 81 formed in the filtration unit (coarse filtration unit) 80 to a water supply and the like, and connecting the downstream side to the raw water inlet 61a, water from the water source is filtered. ) It is introduced into the water supply channel 61 in a state of being filtered after passing through 80.

  As the filtering part (coarse filtering part) 80, for example, an exchangeable filter medium composed of a carbon block and a non-woven fabric filter is accommodated in a housing formed of an upper lid part and a bottomed cylinder. At this time, the opening of the inlet for water flow and the opening of the outlet are provided in the upper lid, and the inlet of the upper lid is connected to the water supply or the like, and the outlet of the upper lid is connected to the raw water inlet 61a. Is preferred. Thus, by performing rough filtration outside the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 can be downsized. In addition, it is also possible to introduce the water from the water source directly into the water supply channel 61 without using the filtering unit (coarse filtering unit) 80. Moreover, it is also possible to incorporate the filtration part (coarse filtration part) 80 in the electrolyzed water production | generation apparatus 10 (it is set as the component of the water supply apparatus 30).

  The first valve 31 is an electromagnetic valve, and controls the start and stop of introduction of raw water into the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10. Specifically, the first valve 31 is opened during the operation of the first pump 32 and is closed during stoppage or standby.

  The first pump 32 is a diaphragm pump that receives water from the first valve 31 and applies the necessary water pressure to the water purification unit 33 to pump it. By using the first pump 32, a practically sufficient amount of water (for example, 200 ml / min) can be secured.

  The water purification unit 33 includes a reverse osmosis membrane module 33a disposed in the front stage (upstream side of the water supply path 61) and a post carbon filter 33b disposed in the rear stage (downstream side of the water supply path 61).

  The reverse osmosis membrane module 33a has a filter 33c made of a porous resin made of cellulose acetate, aromatic polyamide or the like, and separates into permeated water and concentrated water that permeate the filter 33c. That is, the reverse osmosis membrane module 33a has a function as a fractionation filter. The size of the pores of the filter 33c of the reverse osmosis membrane module 33a is approximately 2 nanometers or less, thereby removing impurities such as ions and salts contained in the raw water. The purified water from which impurities such as ions and salts are removed is passed through the post carbon filter 33b, and the water containing the impurities (concentrated water) is drained from the concentrated water drainage path 64a as the drainage path 64.

  By the way, when passing through the reverse osmosis membrane module 33a, a component derived from the resin material (unusual odor component) may be leached into purified water although it is in a very small amount. And if the component derived from the resin material (unpleasant odor component) is leached into the purified water, the taste and smell of the purified water may be impaired. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the post carbon filter 33b is disposed on the downstream side of the reverse osmosis membrane module 33a, and even if such a situation occurs (even if the taste and smell of the purified water are impaired), the purified water is modified. To be able to.

  The post carbon filter 33b is filled with granular activated carbon having a particle size of several tens to several hundreds of micrometers. By passing through the granular activated carbon, the taste of purified water generated when passing through the reverse osmosis membrane module 33a. The deterioration of the is improved.

  And the purified water which passed the water purification part 33 is introduce | transduced into the storage tank (storage part) 40 from the inflow port 61b, and is stored in the storage tank (storage part) 40. FIG. At this time, since the water purification process is quickly performed by the first pump (diaphragm pump) 32, water is stored in the storage tank (storage unit) 40, supplied to the water discharge device 50 described later, and thus, electrolyzed water is generated quickly. Will be done.

  In this embodiment, the storage tank (storage part) 40 is a resin-made hollow box-type casing that is detachably attached to the housing 20 of the electrolyzed water generating device 10 as described later. An outlet 62b of a water discharge passage 62 formed in the water discharge device 50 is connected to the storage tank (storage portion) 40, and purified water stored in the storage tank (storage portion) 40 is discharged from the outlet 62b to the water discharge passage. The water is discharged to the outside from a water outlet 62 a that is introduced to 62 and formed on the downstream side of the water discharge passage 62.

  The water discharge device 50 includes a second pump 51, an electrolysis tank 52, a sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53, and an outflow valve 54, and is stored in a storage tank (storage section) 40. The purified water is electrolyzed to generate alkali ion water and discharge water. In addition, it is also possible to discharge the purified water stored in the storage tank (storage unit) 40 without electrolysis. As described above, the electrolytic cell 52 is configured to perform the electrolytic treatment by introducing the purified water that has passed through the storage tank (storage unit) 40.

  The second pump 51, the electrolytic tank 52, the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 and the outflow valve 54 are installed in a water discharge passage 62 formed in the water discharge device 50. In this embodiment, the 2nd pump 51, the electrolytic vessel 52, the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part) 53, and the outflow valve 54 are installed in order from the upstream of the water discharge channel 62. Further, a water outlet 62 a that discharges water in the apparatus to the outside is formed on the downstream side of the water discharge path 62, and purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is introduced on the upstream side of the water discharge path 62. An outflow port 62b is formed.

  The 2nd pump 51 is an impeller pump, and is a low-pressure pumping pump of less than 100 kPa. And it receives the water from the storage tank (storage part) 40, applies a required water pressure toward the below-mentioned electrolytic cell 52, and pumps. By using the second pump 51, a practically sufficient amount of water (for example, 1000 ml / min) can be secured.

  As the electrolytic cell 52, a conventionally known one can be used. For example, it is possible to use one in which the inside is partitioned by a diaphragm, one is a cathode chamber having a cathode, and the other is an anode chamber having an anode. The purified water introduced into the cathode chamber and the anode chamber of the electrolytic cell 52 is electrolyzed by applying a voltage between the cathode and the anode, and alkali ion water is generated in the cathode chamber. Acidic water is produced in the chamber.

  Further, a water discharge passage 62 is communicated with the outlet of the cathode chamber, and an acidic water drainage passage 64b as a drainage passage 64 is communicated with the outlet of the anode chamber. And the alkaline ionized water produced | generated in the cathode chamber passes along the water discharge path 62, passes the sterilization tank 53, and is discharged outside from the water discharge outlet 62a. On the other hand, the acidic water generated in the anode chamber is drained through the acidic water drainage channel 64b. In addition, an electromagnetic valve 92 is provided in the acidic water drainage path 64b, and is opened when the acidic water generated by driving the electrolytic cell 52 is drained.

  The sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 is a hollow cylindrical tube that passes the alkaline ion water generated in the electrolytic tank 52 or the purified water that has passed through the electrolytic tank 52 without performing the electrolytic treatment. A lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a is provided. And when alkaline ion water, purified water, etc. pass the hollow cylindrical pipe | tube, the sterilization process of alkaline ionized water, purified water, etc. is performed by receiving the ultraviolet-ray irradiated from UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a. It has become. In the present embodiment, the sterilization treatment is performed by irradiating water (purified water, alkaline ionized water, etc.) in the sterilization tank 53 with ultraviolet rays irradiated from a UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a for a predetermined time (for example, 5 seconds). To be applied.

  The outflow valve 54 is an electromagnetic valve and controls the start and stop of water discharge such as alkaline ionized water or purified water. Specifically, the outflow valve 54 is opened during the operation of the second pump 51 and is closed during stoppage or standby.

  In the present embodiment, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 includes a control device 70 that controls the operation of the water supply device 30 and the operation of the water discharge device 50.

  The control device 70 includes a microcomputer 71, an operation unit 72, a tank full detection unit 73, and a tank presence / absence detection unit 74. The microcomputer 71 detects signals from the operation unit 72, the tank full detection unit 73, and the tank presence / absence detection unit 74, while the first valve 31, the first pump 32, the second pump 51, the electrolytic bath 52, and the sterilization bath. (UV irradiation tank: UV irradiation section) 53, operation control of the outflow valve 54, the electromagnetic valve 92, and the like are performed. The operation unit 72 and the like described above are electrically connected to the microcomputer 71 via the wiring H.

  In the present embodiment, power supply to the microcomputer 71 is performed in a state where a commercial AC voltage supplied from a power plug 91 connected to an external power source (not shown) is converted into a DC voltage by the transformer 90.

  Next, a specific configuration (one example) of the electrolyzed water generation device 10 incorporating the water supply device 30, the water discharge device 50, the storage tank (storage unit) 40, and the control device 70 described above will be described with reference to FIGS.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the electrolyzed water generating device 10 includes a housing (main body) 20, and a water supply device 30, a water discharge device 50, and a control device 70 are incorporated in the housing (main body) 20.

  Specifically, the housing (main body) 20 is formed in a hollow box shape by the top wall 21, the bottom wall 22, the side wall 23, the front wall 24, and the rear wall 25, and is formed in the hollow portion of the housing (main body) 20. The water supply device 30, the water discharge device 50, and the control device 70 are incorporated.

  On the other hand, the storage tank (storage part) 40 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape in which an opening 41 is formed above the bottom wall 42, the side wall 43, the front wall 44 and the rear wall 45, and the housing (main body) 20. It is detachably attached to the front part.

  Specifically, a storage recess 26 for storing a storage tank (storage unit) 40 is formed in the front portion of the housing (main body) 20, and the storage tank (storage unit) 40 is stored in the storage recess 26. Thus, the storage tank (storage part) 40 is mounted on the housing (main body) 20. In the present embodiment, the housing recess 26 is formed by making the front center of the housing (main body) 20 recessed backward. That is, as shown in FIG. 4, the storage recess 26 is defined by an upper surface 27, a lower surface 28, and a back surface 29, and has a shape in which both front and side ends are open.

  The side walls 23, 23 of the housing (main body) 20 are respectively formed with locking portions 23a, 23a that are slidable up and down, and the side walls 43, 43 of the storage tank (storage unit) 40 are Locking portions 43a and 43a are formed to lock the locking portions 23a and 23a, respectively. Then, the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is stored in the storage recess 26 by sliding the engaging portions 23a, 23a downward and engaging with the engaging portions 43a, 43a in a state where the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is stored. The housing (main body) 20 is prevented from coming off.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part) 53 is a semi-cylindrical shape covering the rod-shaped straight tube type UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a and the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a. And a stainless steel straight pipe 53b.

  The straight tube type UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a and the stainless steel straight tube 53b are arranged in the housing (main body) 20 so as to extend in the vertical direction. At this time, the straight tube type UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a is disposed on the front side (back surface 29 side) in the housing (main body) 20, and the semi-cylindrical stainless straight tube 53b is a straight tube type. The UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a is arranged so as to cover the rear side.

  Thus, in this embodiment, the water channel in the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 is formed by the stainless steel straight pipe 53b and the wall portion (a part of the front wall 24) where the back surface 29 is formed. 53c is formed.

  The upper and lower ends of the stainless straight pipe 53b are covered with a lid (not shown), and an introduction path for introducing water into the water passage 53c is formed in the lower lid. On the other hand, the upper lid is formed with an outflow path through which water in the water passage 53c flows out of the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53.

  With this configuration, the water that has passed through the electrolytic cell 52 flows into the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 from the lower side and flows out from the upper side.

  Furthermore, wiring holes for inserting wirings for supplying power to the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a are formed in the upper and lower lids. An opening 53d is formed in the stainless straight pipe 53b, and the light emission amount of the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a is measured by a photocoupler 53e provided in the opening 53d.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the ultraviolet light irradiated from the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53 a can be irradiated to the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40.

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 4 to 7, when the storage tank (storage part) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20, the window part (ultraviolet light transmitting part) 29 a and the window part ( Each of the ultraviolet transmitting portions 45c is formed so that the ultraviolet rays can be transmitted from the inside of the housing (main body) 20 to the inside of the storage tank (reserving portion) 40.

  In the present embodiment, it is possible to transmit the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53 a to the outside of the housing (main body) 20 in a portion corresponding to the back surface 29 in the front wall 24 of the housing (main body) 20. A window portion (ultraviolet ray transmitting portion) 29a is formed. Specifically, a window part (ultraviolet transmission part) 29a is formed in a part where a sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part) 53 in a part corresponding to the back surface 29 of the front wall 24 is arranged.

  On the other hand, a window portion (ultraviolet transmission portion) that allows ultraviolet rays irradiated from a UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a to pass through the rear wall 45 of the storage tank (storage portion) 40 into the storage tank (storage portion) 40. ) 45c.

  When the storage tank (storage part) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20, the window part (ultraviolet transmission part) 29a and the window part (ultraviolet transmission part) 45c are in contact with each other in an overlapping state. I have to. That is, when the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 with the storage tank (reservoir) 40 attached to the housing (main body) 20 is viewed from the front, the window (ultraviolet transmission part) 29a and the window (ultraviolet transmission part). At least a part of 45c overlaps.

  By carrying out like this, the ultraviolet-ray irradiated in the water flow path 53c in the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part) 53 permeate | transmits the window part (ultraviolet transmission part) 29a and the window part (ultraviolet transmission part) 45c. Therefore, the storage tank (storage part) 40 is also irradiated.

  The window portion (ultraviolet transmission portion) 29a and the window portion (ultraviolet transmission portion) 45c have a rectangular shape that is vertically elongated, and can be formed using, for example, quartz glass. In addition, the site | part in which the window part 45c of the storage tank (storage part) 40 is not formed, and the site | part in which the window part 29a of the housing (main body) 20 is not formed are formed with resin which has UV light resistance, and is stored. When the ultraviolet rays are irradiated in a state where the tank (reservoir) 40 is mounted on the housing (main body) 20, the ultraviolet rays can be prevented from leaking to the outside.

  An operation portion 72 is formed on the front wall 24 of the housing (main body) 20. The operation unit 72 is provided with a plurality of operation buttons. In the present embodiment, as the operation buttons, a main power button for operating on / off of the apparatus, a drain button for draining purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40, and purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 are used. A water purification mode button for discharging water without electrolysis and an alkali mode button for electrolyzing the purified water in the storage tank (storage unit) 40 to discharge alkaline ionized water are provided. Two (a plurality) alkaline mode buttons are provided so that alkaline ionized water having different pH values can be discharged.

  Further, a bulging portion 24 a bulging forward is formed at the lower portion of the front wall 24 of the housing (main body) 20, and the downstream side of the water discharge passage 62 is disposed in the bulging portion 24 a. At this time, the downstream side of the water discharge passage 62 is arranged in the bulging portion 24a so that the water discharge port 62a faces downward.

  In addition, a nozzle 63 is formed in the lower part of the back surface 29, and an inlet 61b of the water supply channel 61 and an outlet 62b of the water discharge channel 62 are formed in the nozzle 63 as shown in FIG. . That is, in this embodiment, the inlet 61b and the outlet 62b are combined into one nozzle 63. At this time, the outlet 62 b of the water discharge path 62 is arranged below the inlet 61 b of the water supply path 61.

  When the storage tank (storage part) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20, the nozzle 63 is inserted into an insertion hole 45 a formed in the lower part of the rear wall 45 of the storage tank (storage part) 40. Yes. By inserting this nozzle 63 into an insertion hole 45 a formed in the lower part of the rear wall 45 of the storage tank (storage part) 40, the water supply path 61 and the water discharge path 62 are communicated with the storage tank (storage part) 40. It becomes. In addition, by providing an O-ring or the like around the nozzle 63, the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 does not leak from the insertion hole 45a when the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20. I have to.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the inlet 61b and the outlet 62b are combined into one nozzle 63, so that the storage tank (reservoir) 40 can be easily attached to and detached from the housing (main body) 20. . Further, by connecting the nozzle 63, that is, the inflow port 61b and the outflow port 62b to the lower part of the storage tank (reservoir) 40, the inflow port 61b and the outflow port 62b can be more reliably submerged. In this way, the inflow port 61b and the outflow port 62b are more reliably submerged, so that the inflow port 61b and the outflow port 62b can be prevented from coming into contact with air, and a more hygienic device can be obtained. it can. Further, by arranging the outlet 62b of the water discharge passage 62 below the inlet 61b of the water supply passage 61, the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 can be discharged more reliably and quickly. I am doing so.

  In addition, a nozzle 73a of a tank full detector 73 is formed on the upper surface 29. When the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20, this nozzle 73a is used as a storage tank (reservoir). ) 40 is inserted into an insertion hole 45 b formed in the upper part of the rear wall 45. An O-ring or the like is also provided around the nozzle 73a, and when the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20, purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 leaks from the insertion hole 45b. It is supposed not to.

  And it is detected whether the storage tank (storage part) 40 was filled with water by inserting this nozzle 73a through the insertion hole 45b formed in the upper part of the rear wall 45 of the storage tank (storage part) 40. To be able to. Specifically, the tank full detection unit 73 is provided with an electrode that is normally electrically insulated through air and electrically connected through purified water when purified water is introduced from the nozzle 73a. Yes. Therefore, when the purified water is stored in the storage tank (reservoir) 40, the water level rises, but the electrode of the tank full detector 73 remains electrically insulated until the nozzle 73a is reached. On the other hand, when the water level in the storage tank (storage part) 40 rises and reaches the nozzle 73a, purified water is introduced from the nozzle 73a and the electrodes are electrically connected via the purified water. As described above, the water level in the storage tank (storage unit) 40 rises and reaches the nozzle 73a, and the electrode provided in the tank full detection unit 73 is energized, so that a signal is output to the microcomputer 71 and stored. It is detected that the tank (reservoir) 40 is full, and the storage of purified water is stopped.

  Further, a protrusion 74 a of the tank presence / absence detection unit 74 is provided in a central portion of the back surface 29 so as to protrude and retract. When the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20, the protrusion 74 a is pushed backward by the rear wall 45 of the storage tank (reservoir) 40 and sunk. When the protrusion 74a is pushed rearward, a signal from the tank presence / absence detection unit 74 is output to the microcomputer 71, and it is detected that the storage tank (storage unit) 40 is mounted on the housing (main body) 20. It is like that.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a protrusion 28 a extending in the front-rear direction is formed on the lower surface 28, and a recess 42 a that engages with the protrusion 28 a is formed on the bottom wall 42 of the storage tank (storage part) 40. Has been. When the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20, the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is slid rearward while engaging the recess 42a with the protrusion 28a. Part) 40 can be mounted on the housing (main body) 20 more easily. The protrusions 28a and the recesses 42a also have a function of preventing erroneous mounting of the storage tank (storage part) 40 to the housing (main body) 20.

  Next, the operation of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, the main power button of the operation unit 72 is operated to turn on the power. Then, the microcomputer 71 receives this signal and confirms the initial situation. For example, the initial status confirmation includes the following. Whether or not the storage tank (storage unit) 40 is attached to a predetermined position of the housing (main body) 20 of the electrolyzed water generating device 10 is confirmed by the tank presence / absence detection unit 74. At this time, if the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is not attached to a predetermined position of the housing (main body) 20 of the electrolyzed water generating device 10, the water supply device is not operated. Further, the tank full detection unit 73 confirms whether or not the storage tank (storage unit) 40 is full. At this time, when the storage tank (storage part) 40 is full of water, the water supply device 30 is not operated. In other cases, the water supply device 30 is operated (the first valve 31 is opened and the first pump 32 is driven) to generate purified water, and the generated purified water is stored in a storage tank (storage unit). 40 is stored. In addition, if the purified water is stored in the storage tank (storage part) 40, even if it is not full, the purified water in the storage tank (storage part) 40 can be discharged. Therefore, it is preferable that a water supply mode button is provided in the operation unit separately from the main power source, and water is supplied to the storage tank (storage unit) 40 when the water supply mode button is operated.

  On the other hand, when the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is discharged, the water purification mode button and the alkali mode button of the operation unit 72 are operated.

  For example, when the water purification mode button is operated, the second pump 51 and the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 are operated by the microcomputer 71, and the outflow valve 54 is opened. At this time, the electrolytic cell 52 is not driven. The electromagnetic valve 92 is closed so that the purified water that has passed through the electrolytic cell 52 is not drained from the acidic water drainage channel 64b. Thus, the purified water introduced from the storage tank (storage part) 40 into the water discharge passage 62 by the second pump 51 passes through the electrolytic tank 52 without being electrolyzed, and is sterilized (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part). Water is discharged from the water outlet 62a in a state where the sterilization process is performed by the 53 UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a.

  Further, when an alkali mode button (button for obtaining alkaline ionized water having a desired pH value) is operated, the microcomputer 71 causes the second pump 51, the electrolytic bath 52, and the sterilization bath (UV irradiation bath: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 to In operation, the outflow valve 54 is opened. The electromagnetic valve 92 is also opened. Thus, the purified water introduced from the storage tank (reservoir) 40 into the water discharge passage 62 by the second pump 51 is electrolyzed in the electrolytic cell 52 to generate alkali ion water having a desired pH value. Ionized water is discharged from the water outlet 62a in a state where the sterilization treatment is performed by the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a of the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53. On the other hand, the acidic water generated by electrolysis in the electrolytic cell 52 is drained from the acidic water drainage channel 64b. The pH value of the generated alkaline ionized water is adjusted by the difference in voltage applied to the electrolytic cell 52.

  When the drain button is operated, the second pump 51 is operated by the microcomputer 71 and the outflow valve 54 is opened. At this time, the electrolytic bath 52 and the sterilization bath (UV irradiation bath: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 are not driven. The electromagnetic valve 92 is closed so that the purified water that has passed through the electrolytic cell 52 is not drained from the acidic water drainage channel 64b. Thus, the purified water introduced from the storage tank (storage part) 40 into the water discharge passage 62 by the second pump 51 passes through the electrolytic tank 52 without being electrolyzed, and is sterilized (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part). Water is discharged (drained) from the water outlet 62a without being sterilized by the 53 UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a. In addition, you may make it drive the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part) 53 also at the time of a drain, and drain the purified water which performed the sterilization process from the spout 62a.

  By the way, if the water supply device 30 is provided with the first pump 32 and the water discharge device 50 is provided with the second pump 51 so that the water supply amount and the water discharge amount can be sufficiently secured, the water supply device 30 and the water discharge device 50 The amount of power consumed when both the water supply device 30 and the water discharge device 50 are driven at the same time by supplying electric power to both of them increases. Therefore, when such an electrolyzed water generating apparatus is used in an area where it is difficult to stably supply electricity (an area where the power situation is poor), electric power to be supplied to both the water supply device 30 and the water discharge device 50 can be obtained. Therefore, the operation of the electrolyzed water generator may become unstable.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the control device 70 is operating at least one of the water supply device 30 and the water discharge device 50, at least one of the components of the other device is inoperative. So as to control the other device.

  Specifically, when the water discharge device (one device) 50 is operating (for example, when the second pump 51 or the electrolytic cell 52 of the water discharge device 50 is operating), the water supply device (the other device). At least one of the 30 components (the first valve 31 and the first pump 32) (for example, the first pump 32) was stopped or placed in a standby state.

  On the other hand, when the water supply device (one device) 30 is operating (for example, when the first pump 32 of the water supply device 30 is operating), each component (first device) of the water discharge device (the other device) 50 is operated. At least one element (for example, the second pump 51) of the pump 51, the electrolytic tank 52, the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53, and the outflow valve 54) is stopped or placed in a standby state. .

  At this time, the first pump 32 or the second pump 51 is preferably used as at least one component that is not operated. That is, it is preferable that both the first pump 32 and the second pump 51 are not driven. This is because the first pump 32 and the second pump 51 consume a large amount of power during driving.

  In this way, if only one of the first pump 32 and the second pump 51 is driven, it is possible to more reliably suppress an increase in power consumption when the apparatus is used. Will be able to. That is, the electrolyzed water generating device 10 can be operated without increasing the amount of electric power required when the electrolyzed water generating device 10 is operated. Therefore, even if the electrolyzed water generating device 10 that can ensure a sufficient amount of water is used in an area where the power situation is poor, the operation of the electrolyzed water generating device 10 can be further stabilized.

  In addition, when the water supply device (one device) 30 is operating, if the second pump 51 is stopped or placed in a standby state, it is preferable that the electrolytic cell 52 is not operated.

  At this time, the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 can be deactivated (the UV lamp 53a is turned off), but the water supply device (one device) 30 operates. It is preferable that the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 can be operated (the UV lamp 53a is turned on) even during the operation. When the water discharge device 50 is stopped, water stays in the hollow cylinder constituting the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 by closing the outflow valve 54. This is because various germs may grow in the accumulated water unless the UV irradiation tank (UV irradiation section) 53 is operated.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the water discharge device 50 is restarted after a lapse of a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) after the operation of the water discharge device 50 is stopped, the sterilization tank ( The UV irradiation tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 was operated for a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds).

  Specifically, when the control unit 70 is instructed to restart after a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) since the water discharge device 50 is stopped, the sterilization tank ( The water discharger is configured so that the UV pump (ultraviolet light source) 53a of the UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation unit 53 is turned on, and the second pump 51 is operated after a predetermined time (for example, 15 seconds) has elapsed after the lighting. 50 controls are performed. It should be noted that the time for irradiating the water staying after lighting (15 seconds) is longer than the normal irradiation time (5 seconds) described above, because the amount of ultraviolet light output is in the initial lighting of the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a. This is because it is smaller than the steady state and may not be sufficiently sterilized by irradiation for the same period of time as usual.

  In this manner, prior to the operation of the second pump 51, the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a of the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 is turned on, so that the inside of the hollow cylinder (inside the sterilization tank 53). The water can be discharged after the sterilization treatment is performed on the water staying in (). As a result, water can be discharged (supplied) more hygienically.

  However, in the case where the water discharge device 50 is restarted within a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) after the operation of the water discharge device 50 is stopped, the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank) does not precede the operation of the second pump 51. : UV irradiation unit) 53 is operated. That is, if the re-operation after stopping the water discharge device 50 is within a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes), the operation of the second pump 51 is performed simultaneously with the re-operation instruction. In this way, if it is stopped for a short time, since the sterilization of the staying water is unnecessary, water discharge can be started immediately. In this way, user convenience can be improved. At this time, even when the water discharge is stopped (when the operation of the second pump 51 and the electrolytic cell 52 is stopped and the outflow valve 54 is closed), a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) elapses. Until then, it is preferable to leave the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a of the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 lit. In this way, even if the water discharge is stopped, the sterilization treatment of the staying water is performed for a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes), so that the second pump 51 is restarted within the predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes). Water that has been sterilized can be discharged. In addition, when it is set as the structure which turns off the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a of the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation part) 53 when water discharge is stopped, within a predetermined time (10 minutes) after the stop. When the operation is restarted, the lighting of the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a and the operation of the second pump 51 are performed simultaneously with the re-operation instruction.

  And when the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 is operated as described above, when the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a is lit, only water in the sterilization tank (UV irradiation tank: ultraviolet irradiation section) 53 is used. The purified water in the storage tank (storage part) 40 is also sterilized by ultraviolet rays (see FIG. 7).

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 introduces raw water to generate purified water, and a storage tank (storage unit) 40 that stores purified water generated by the purified water unit 33. And. Moreover, the electrolyzed water production | generation apparatus 10 introduces the purified water which passed the storage tank (storage part) 40, can electrolyze, and introduce | transduces the water which passed electrolyzer 52, and irradiates with ultraviolet rays. And a sterilization tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 to be made.

  The sterilization tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 includes a UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a that irradiates ultraviolet rays, and the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a are stored in the storage tank (reservoir) 40. It is possible to irradiate the purified water.

  In this way, when the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a is turned on to sterilize the water in the sterilization tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53, the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is also sterilized by ultraviolet rays. Will be able to.

  As a result, water can be sterilized more efficiently, and water can be discharged (supplied) more hygienically.

  Thus, according to this embodiment, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 capable of discharging water (supplying) more hygienically can be obtained.

  In particular, since the storage tank (reservoir) 40 has a relatively large volume and is easy to propagate with many germs, the storage tank is used when the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is not sterilized. (Reservoir) It is necessary to sterilize these various germs in the sterilization tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 when many germs propagate in the purified water in 40. As described above, simply sterilizing various germs in the sterilization tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 having a relatively small volume may not sterilize the propagated germs, and water mixed with germs may be discharged. In addition, in order to sufficiently sterilize the water in which many germs have propagated in the sterilization tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53, it is necessary to irradiate with ultraviolet rays for a longer time, and there is a problem that the sterilization efficiency is lowered.

  However, if the sterilization treatment can be performed also on the purified water in the storage tank (storage part) 40 as in the present embodiment, the sterilization tank (ultraviolet rays) is suppressed while suppressing the sterilization efficiency from being lowered. It is possible to suppress discharging water that could not be sterilized in (irradiation unit) 53, and more hygienic water can be discharged (supplied) more efficiently.

  Moreover, since the sterilization treatment is performed on the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 using the ultraviolet rays irradiated when performing the sterilization treatment before water discharge, It is not necessary to add a new structure for water purification. As a result, it is possible to reduce the cost while simplifying the configuration.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, even when the water introduced into the sterilization tank (ultraviolet irradiation unit) 53 is stopped, the ultraviolet rays irradiated from the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a are stored in the storage tank (reservoir) 40. It is possible to irradiate the clean water inside.

  By the way, the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a needs to be continuously lit for a certain period (more than 10 minutes) after the water stop for measuring the light quantity. Therefore, when the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is not sterilized, it has not been possible to effectively use the ultraviolet rays irradiated for a certain period (more than 10 minutes) after the water stoppage.

  However, if the sterilization treatment can be performed on the purified water in the storage tank (reservoir) 40 as in this embodiment, the ultraviolet rays irradiated at this time can be used effectively. .

  In addition, after a fixed period (10 minutes or more) has passed after water stoppage, the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20 in a power-on state without turning off the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a. When it is mounted, the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a can be always turned on. In this case, the sterilization process in the storage tank (storage part) 40 can always be performed even after the water stops.

  In addition, the storage tank (reservoir) 40 is attached to the housing (main body) 20 in an operation in which the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a is turned off after a fixed period (10 minutes or more) has passed after the water stoppage and the power is on. If it is, it is possible to select one of the operations for always lighting the UV lamp (ultraviolet light source) 53a.

  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the control device is configured so that at least one of the water supply device and the water discharge device is in operation and at least one of the components of the other device is inactive. The electrolyzed water production | generation apparatus which controlled this apparatus was illustrated. However, it is also possible to apply the present invention to an electrolyzed water generating device that can simultaneously operate a water supply device and a water discharge device.

  In addition, it is possible to appropriately change the specifications (shape, size, layout, etc.) of the electrolytic cell, the water purification unit, and other details.

10 Electrolyzed water generator 33 Water purification unit 40 Storage tank (storage unit)
52 Electrolysis tank 53 Sterilization tank (UV irradiation part)
53a UV lamp (ultraviolet light source)

Claims (2)

A water purification unit that introduces raw water to produce purified water,
A reservoir for storing the purified water generated in the water purification unit;
An electrolytic cell capable of introducing the purified water that has passed through the reservoir and performing an electrolytic treatment;
An ultraviolet irradiation unit for introducing water that has passed through the electrolytic cell to irradiate ultraviolet rays; and
With
The ultraviolet irradiation unit has an ultraviolet light source that irradiates ultraviolet rays,
An electrolyzed water generating apparatus characterized in that ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source can be irradiated to purified water in the reservoir.   2. The electrolysis according to claim 1, wherein, even when the water introduced into the ultraviolet irradiation unit is stopped, the ultraviolet light irradiated from the ultraviolet light source can be irradiated to the purified water in the storage unit. Water generator.

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