JP5287857B2 - Humidity control device - Google Patents

Description

    The present invention relates to a humidity control apparatus.

    2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, humidity control devices including a humidifying unit that imparts water in a water tank to the air are widely known. Also, in this type of humidity control device, a humidity control device that purifies the water quality of water by supplying ozone gas into the water tank and bringing the water and ozone gas into contact with each other to remove germs and harmful substances in the water. (For example, refer to Patent Document 1).

    In the humidity control device disclosed in Patent Document 1, an ozone gas outlet is formed at the bottom of a water tank, and a porous plate having substantially uniform pores is provided above the outlet. In this humidity control apparatus, ozone gas bubbles blown out from the bottom outlet are uniformly diffused in the water tank by passing through substantially uniform pores of the porous plate, thereby purifying the entire water tank. ing.

    However, in the humidity control device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the bubbles of ozone gas that have passed through the pores of the porous plate rise due to buoyancy and immediately reach the water surface. As a result, surplus ozone that has not reacted in water is released into the atmosphere, and therefore when the humidity control device is used for a long time in a sealed room, the ozone concentration in the room may exceed the environmental standard.

    Then, like the water purification apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 2, ozone gas that was not dissolved in water out of ozone gas diffused in water was collected in a collection container, and the collected ozone gas was decomposed by an ozone decomposition catalyst. It may be released later into the atmosphere.

JP 2001-153409 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-1778989

    However, in the purification apparatus described in Patent Document 2, when the water level in the water tank fluctuates, ozone may not be collected well. Specifically, in this purification device, the water level in the water tank is substantially constant and the ozone outlet is always immersed in water. And the ozone which did not melt | dissolve in water after flowing out from an outflow port is collected by a collection container, when rising to a water surface by buoyancy. However, the water in the water tank of the humidity control apparatus is used for air humidification, and the water level gradually decreases. Therefore, the outlet is positioned above the water surface. If ozone flows out from the outlet in this state, ozone is diffused in the air, and a part of the ozone flowing out from the outlet is released into the atmosphere without being collected in the collection container.

    Here, in order to prevent the release of ozone into the atmosphere, it is necessary to arrange an ozone decomposition catalyst for decomposing ozone on the upstream side or downstream side of the blower fan, and the air on the upstream side or downstream side of the blower fan. Since an ozonolysis catalyst having a large surface area that covers the passage is required, it is disadvantageous in terms of cost.

    Further, since air containing moisture after humidification passes through the ozone decomposition catalyst, it is necessary to select and use a water-resistant catalyst, which causes an increase in cost. Furthermore, since the air blown by the blower fan is configured to pass through the catalyst, there is a possibility that pressure loss occurs and the blowing performance is lowered.

    This invention is made | formed in view of this point, The objective is to purify | clean the water in a storage tank efficiently, suppressing discharge | release to the atmosphere of active species.

    In order to achieve the above-described object, in the present invention, the inside of the storage tank is partitioned into a supply region and a humidification region by a partition member, and the periphery of the supply region is covered so that active species are supplied only to the supply region.

    Specifically, the present invention includes a storage tank (41) for storing water, and a humidification mechanism (43) for humidifying the air by applying water in the storage tank (41) to the air. The following solutions were taken for humidity control devices.

That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the humidification mechanism (43) is disposed in the discharge treatment section (51) where discharge is performed so as to generate active species and the storage tank (41), and water is in the air. The water is partitioned in a horizontal direction into a humidifying region (31) to be applied to and a supply region (32) in which the active species generated in the discharge treatment unit (51) are supplied and water is purified by the active species, A partition member (25) having a communication passage (33) for circulating water purified in the supply region (32) to the humidification region (31), and supply in the storage tank (41) The cover member (26) covering the upper part of the region (32) and the discharge treatment part (51) are blown with air to include the active species toward the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41). An air supply mechanism (64) for supplying air, and the covering member (26) is provided to the supply area (32). And an exhaust port (34) for exhausting air containing active species staying in a space above the water level of the stored water in the supply region (32), and the covering member (26) An air circulation path (65) is provided for circulating the air containing the staying active species to the air blowing mechanism (64) through the exhaust port (34) .

The second aspect of the invention is characterized in that the humidification mechanism (43) is arranged in the discharge treatment section (51) in which discharge is performed so as to generate active species and the storage tank (41) so that water is in the air. The water is partitioned in a horizontal direction into a humidifying region (31) to be applied to and a supply region (32) in which the active species generated in the discharge treatment unit (51) are supplied and water is purified by the active species, A partition member (25) having a communication passage (33) for circulating water purified in the supply region (32) to the humidification region (31), and supply in the storage tank (41) A covering member (26) covering the upper side of the region (32), and the covering member (26) is supplied to the supply region (32) from the surface of the water stored in the supply region (32). There is also provided an exhaust port (34) for exhausting air containing active species that stays in the upper space. The member (26) is disposed at the exhaust port (34) and includes an ozone decomposition catalyst (37) that decomposes ozone components contained in the active species.

In the first and second inventions, discharge is performed in the discharge processing section (51) to generate active species. This active species is supplied to the supply region (32) in the storage tank partitioned by the partition member (25). The active species supplied to the supply region (32) is suppressed from being released out of the storage tank (41) by the partition member (25) and the covering member (26), and the water stored in the supply region (32) is reduced. Purified. The water purified by the active species flows from the supply area (32) toward the humidification area (31) through the communication path (33).

    In this way, the storage tank (41) is partitioned into the supply region (32) and the humidification region (31), and the active species is supplied only to the supply region (32), so that the partition member (25) and the cover are covered. Since the release of the active species to the outside is suppressed by the member (26), even when the humidity control device is used for a long time in a sealed room, the ozone concentration in the room will not exceed the environmental standard due to the ozone contained in the active species. It is preferable not to exceed.

    And since the active species are not released out of the storage tank (41), it is not necessary to arrange a catalyst upstream or downstream of the blower fan in order to decompose and remove the active species, which reduces the blowing performance due to pressure loss. This can be prevented and is advantageous in reducing the cost of the catalyst.

    In addition, since the water in the supply area (32) purified by supplying active species flows to the humidification area (31) through the communication path (33), by removing germs and harmful substances in the water, The entire storage tank (41) can efficiently purify water.

Furthermore, in the first invention, air is blown to the discharge processing section (51) by the blower mechanism (64). And the air containing an active species is supplied toward the supply area | region (32) of a storage tank (41). For this reason, the active species produced | generated by the discharge process part (51) can be reliably sent toward a supply area | region (32).

Furthermore, in the first invention, the covering member (26) is provided with an exhaust port (34) for exhausting air containing active species supplied to the supply region (32). Then, the air containing the active species staying in the space above the surface of the stored water in the supply region (32) circulates from the exhaust port (34) to the blower mechanism (64) through the air circulation path (65). Is done. For this reason, the active species are circulated between the supply region (32) and the blower mechanism (64) and used without waste, thereby reducing the amount of active species generated in the discharge treatment unit (51) and reducing the water purification efficiency. Can be improved. Furthermore, since it is possible to shorten the operation time of the discharge processing unit (51) and the air blowing mechanism (64) necessary for ensuring the water purification performance, it is advantageous for power saving.

Furthermore, in the second invention, the ozone decomposition catalyst (37) for decomposing the ozone component contained in the active species is disposed in the exhaust port (34). For this reason, the active species ozone component staying in the space above the surface of the stored water in the supply region (32) is decomposed by the ozone decomposition catalyst (37) and then released out of the storage tank (41). Therefore, even when the humidity control apparatus is used for a long time in a sealed room, the ozone concentration in the room does not exceed the environmental standard due to ozone contained in the active species.

According to a third invention, in the first or second invention, a supply region (41) of the storage tank (41) in which the active species generated in the discharge processing section (51) is covered by the covering member (26). It is characterized in that it is supplied to the space above the surface of the stored water in 32).

In the third aspect of the invention, the active species is supplied to the space above the surface of the stored water in the supply region (32) covered with the covering member (26) by the discharge processing section (51). For this reason, compared with the case where the active species are directly supplied to the water in the supply region (32), the active species can be fed into the supply region (32) by using a pump having a low discharge pressure. This is advantageous in terms of cost and long life.

In a fourth aspect based on the third aspect , the gas-liquid mixing mechanism (66) for mixing the air containing the active species supplied to the supply region (32) and the water stored in the supply region (32). ).

In the fourth invention, air containing active species and stored water are mixed in the supply region (32) by the gas-liquid mixing mechanism (66). Thereby, the air containing the active species supplied in the supply region (32) can be mixed with water to efficiently remove germs and harmful substances in the water, thereby promoting water purification.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the second aspects, the air is blown to the discharge processing section (51) and is activated toward the supply area (32) of the storage tank (41). A blower mechanism (64) for supplying air containing seeds is provided.

In the fifth invention, air is blown to the discharge processing section (51) by the blowing mechanism (64). And the air containing an active species is supplied toward the supply area | region (32) of a storage tank (41). For this reason, the active species produced | generated by the discharge process part (51) can be reliably sent toward a supply area | region (32).

According to a sixth invention, in the first or second invention , the water in the storage tank (41) is agitated, and the water in the supply region (32) is supplied to the humidification region via the communication passage (33). A stirring mechanism (35) for forcibly circulating water to (31) is provided.

In 6th invention, the water in a storage tank (41) is stirred by the stirring mechanism (35). The agitated water is forced to flow from the supply region (32) toward the humidification region (31) through the communication path (33). For this reason, the water in the supply area (32) purified by the active species is distributed toward the humidification area (31) without staying in the supply area (32), thereby removing germs and harmful substances in the water. In addition, water quality purification of the water can be efficiently performed as the entire storage tank (41).

The seventh invention is characterized in that, in the first or second invention , the discharge operation by the discharge processing section (51) is intermittently performed.

In the seventh invention, the discharge operation by the discharge processing section (51) is performed intermittently. With such a configuration, water purification performance can be ensured with a minimum amount of power, which is advantageous in terms of power saving.

    Specifically, for example, in the case of an apparatus configuration in which an air circulation path (65) is provided to recover and circulate again the remaining active species that cannot be used for water purification treatment, the discharge processing section (51) Even if the discharge operation is stopped, the recovered active species are continuously supplied into the water and the water is purified. Therefore, the active species are consumed at the time of water purification treatment, or the active species are gradually reduced due to natural annihilation, etc. If the discharge operation is performed, it is advantageous for saving power. In addition, by reducing the discharge time, dirt is less likely to adhere to the discharge electrode, and the discharge electrode is less likely to be worn, thereby extending the life of the discharge electrode.

    In order to intermittently perform the discharge operation by the discharge processing unit (51), it is conceivable to perform feedback control by measuring the concentration of active species in real time with a sensor or the like. If the concentration reduction rate of the active species is calculated in advance, and the discharge operation is controlled intermittently when the active species falls below the predetermined concentration, there is no need to provide a separate sensor for concentration measurement. It is advantageous for reduction.

The eighth invention is characterized in that, in the first or fifth invention, the air blowing operation by the air blowing mechanism (64) is intermittently performed.

In the eighth invention, the blowing operation by the blowing mechanism (64) is performed intermittently. With such a configuration, water purification performance can be ensured with a minimum amount of power, which is advantageous in terms of power saving.

    Specifically, for example, the active species supplied to the space above the surface of the water stored in the supply region (32) is gradually mixed into water by the gas-liquid mixing mechanism (66) or the like. If it is a structure, even if the ventilation operation | movement by the ventilation mechanism (64) is stopped, active species will be mixed in water by the gas-liquid mixing mechanism (66), and the purification process of water will be performed. That is, even if the active species are not continuously supplied toward the supply region (32), the active species staying in the supply region (32) is mixed by the gas-liquid mixing mechanism (66), for a while. Water purification treatment can be sustained.

    Therefore, the active species are consumed at the time of water purification treatment, or the active species are gradually reduced due to natural annihilation, etc. By performing the blowing operation (and discharging operation), water purification performance can be ensured with a minimum amount of power, which is advantageous for power saving and extending the life of the blowing mechanism (64). . Moreover, the noise resulting from the operation | movement sound of the ventilation fan which comprises a ventilation mechanism (64), or a ventilation pump can be reduced by performing intermittent operation.

    According to the present invention, the storage tank (41) is horizontally divided into a supply region (32) and a humidification region (31) and covers the upper side of the supply region (32), and only the supply region (32) is active. By supplying the seeds, the release of the active species to the outside of the storage tank (41) is suppressed, so even if the humidity control device is used for a long time in a sealed room, It is preferable that the ozone concentration does not exceed environmental standards.

    And since the active species are not released out of the storage tank (41), it is not necessary to arrange a catalyst upstream or downstream of the blower fan in order to decompose and remove the active species, which reduces the blowing performance due to pressure loss. This can be prevented and is advantageous in reducing the cost of the catalyst.

    In addition, since the water in the supply area (32) purified by supplying active species flows to the humidification area (31) through the communication path (33), by removing germs and harmful substances in the water, The entire storage tank (41) can efficiently purify water.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an overall configuration of a humidity control apparatus according to an embodiment and a state in which a storage tank is pulled out from a casing. FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the humidity control apparatus. FIG. 3 is a side sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank. FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank of the first modification. FIG. 5 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank of Modification 2. FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank of the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a side sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank of the third embodiment.

    Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the following description of the preferred embodiment is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the present invention, its application, or its use.

<Embodiment 1>
1 is a perspective view showing a configuration of a humidity control apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a side sectional view showing an internal configuration of the humidity control apparatus. As shown in FIG.1 and FIG.2, this humidity control apparatus (10) is comprised so that the driving | operation which humidifies this indoor air while purifying indoor air is possible.

    The humidity control device (10) has a resin casing (11). The casing (11) is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, and the front surface (left end surface in FIG. 2) is constituted by a front panel (11a).

    Suction ports (12) for introducing air into the casing (11) are formed in front portions of the left and right sides of the casing (11) (see FIG. 1). Moreover, the blower outlet (13) for blowing the air in a casing (11) out of a casing (11) is formed in the upper part and back side of a casing (11). An air passage (14) through which air flows from the suction port (12) toward the blowout port (13) is formed in the casing (11).

    As shown in FIG. 2, the humidity control device (10) includes an air purification unit (20) and a humidification unit (in order) from the upstream side to the downstream side of the air flow in the air passage (14). 40) and a centrifugal fan (15), and an active species supply unit (50) is arranged.

-Configuration of air purification means-
As shown in FIG. 2, the air purification unit (20) is for purifying air, and has a prefilter (21), an ionization part (22), and a pleat filter (23).

    The pre-filter (21) constitutes a dust collecting filter that captures relatively large dust contained in the air.

    The ionization part (22) constitutes a dust charging means for charging dust in the air. The ionization part (22) is provided with, for example, a linear electrode and a plate-like electrode facing the linear electrode. The ionization unit (22) is configured to apply a voltage from a power source (not shown) to both electrodes to cause corona discharge and charge dust in the air to a predetermined charge (positive or negative charge). Yes.

    The pleated filter (23) constitutes a corrugated electrostatic filter. That is, the pleated filter (23) electrically attracts and captures the dust charged by the ionization part (22). Note that a deodorizing material such as a photocatalyst may be supported on the pleated filter (23).

-Composition of humidification unit-
As shown in FIG. 2, the humidification unit (40) is pumped up by a storage tank (41) for storing water, a water wheel (42) for pumping water in the storage tank (41), and a water wheel (42). A humidifying rotor (43) that constitutes a humidifying mechanism for imparting water to the air, and a drive motor (44) for rotationally driving the humidifying rotor (43). The humidification unit (40) includes a heater (48) for heating the humidification rotor (43).

    The storage tank (41) is installed in a lower space in the casing (11), and is configured to be freely inserted and removed through an outlet (11b) of the casing (11) (see FIG. 1). Thereby, the user can replenish the water (for example, tap water) for humidification suitably in the storage tank (41).

    As shown in FIG. 3, the storage tank (41) is constituted by a horizontally long container whose upper side opens. In the storage tank (41), the humidifying unit (40) is arranged by the partition member (25) so that water is given to the air, and the active species supply unit (50) supplies the active species. And a supply region (32) where water is purified by the active species. That is, the partition member (25) extends in a direction orthogonal to the water surface, and partitions the inside of the storage tank (41) into a humidification region (31) and a supply region (32) in the horizontal direction (water surface direction). A covering member (26) that covers the upper space is provided above the supply region (32). The cover member (26) is provided between the upper end of the side wall of the storage tank (41) and the upper end of the partition member (25). The supply region (32) is surrounded by a partition member (25) and a covering member (26).

    An air outlet (41a) communicating with the supply region (32) surrounded by the partition member (25) and the covering member (26) is formed in the upper portion of the side wall of the storage tank (41). A transport pipe (63) of an active species supply unit (50) to be described later is connected to the upstream side of the blower outlet (41a). An outlet nozzle (45) extending downward along the side wall of the storage tank (41) is connected to the downstream side of the outlet (41a). That is, the transfer pipe (63) and the blow nozzle (45) are connected to the blow outlet (41a) with the side wall of the storage tank (41) interposed therebetween. Active species are blown into the water in the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41) from the blowout port (41a) through the blowout nozzle (45).

    The lower end of the partition member (25) is located above the bottom surface of the storage tank (41), and a gap is provided between the partition member (25) and the bottom surface of the storage tank (41). This gap constitutes a communication path (33) through which water purified in the supply area (32) flows to the humidification area (31). That is, the partition member (25) has a communication path (33) in its underwater portion.

    An exhaust port (34) is formed in the covering member (26). The exhaust port (34) exhausts air containing active species that is supplied to the supply region (32) and stays in a space above the surface of the water stored in the supply region (32). The covering member (26) includes a dehumidifying agent (36) and an ozone decomposition catalyst (37) that are sequentially stacked above the exhaust port (34). The dehumidifying agent (36) is for removing moisture in the air containing active species, and the ozone decomposition catalyst (37) is for decomposing and removing ozone components contained in the active species. The dehumidifying agent (36) and the ozone decomposition catalyst (37) are engaged with the periphery of the upper surface of the ozone decomposition catalyst (37) and surround the side wall periphery of the dehumidifying agent (36) and the ozone decomposition catalyst (37). Is held by. In addition, as a dehumidifying agent (36), the material excellent in dehumidification performances, such as a silica gel, can be used, for example.

    The upper opening of the humidification area (31) of the storage tank (41) is closed by a lid member (46) having an outer shape corresponding to the upper peripheral edge of the storage tank (41) and the partition member (25). The water in the region (31) is prevented from evaporating and being released into the atmosphere.

    As shown in FIG. 2, the water turbine (42) is formed in a substantially disc shape, and a rotation shaft (42a) projects from the axial center portion thereof. The rotating shaft (42a) is rotatably supported by a bearing member (not shown) erected on the bottom surface of the storage tank (41). The water turbine (42) is provided so that a part (a predetermined part including the lower end) is immersed in the water in the humidification region (31) of the storage tank (41).

    A plurality of recesses (42b) are formed around the axis on the rear side surface (side surface facing the humidification rotor (43)) of the water wheel (42). The plurality of recesses (42b) are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction at the radially outer end of the water turbine (42). Each recessed part (42b) alternately displaces the position immersed in the water in a storage tank (41), and the position pulled out from water during rotation operation of a water wheel (42).

    In addition, a gear (42c) is integrally formed on the rear side surface of the water wheel (42) at a portion near the axis. The gear (42c) is configured to mesh with the driven gear (43a) of the humidification rotor (43).

    The humidification rotor (43) includes a disk-shaped suction member (43b) and an annular driven gear (43a) formed on the outer peripheral surface of the suction member (43b). The adsorbing member (43b) is made of a highly hygroscopic nonwoven fabric in order to adsorb moisture.

    The humidification rotor (43) is rotatably held via a rotation shaft at a position higher than the water level when the storage tank (41) is full. Moreover, the humidification rotor (43) is arrange | positioned so that the predetermined site | part containing the lower end may contact substantially with a water turbine (42). That is, the humidification rotor (43) has a portion that overlaps the recess (42b) of the water wheel (42) when viewed in the axial direction. As a result, when the water pumped up by the concave portion (42b) of the water turbine (42) flows down from the concave portion (42b), the humidifying rotor (43) adheres to the adsorption member (43b) and is attached to the adsorption member (43b) Adsorbed.

    The drive motor (44) is connected to the driven gear (43a) of the humidification rotor (43) through power transmission means (not shown) such as a gear. Thereby, the rotational force of the drive motor (44) is transmitted to the driven gear (43a) of the humidification rotor (43) via the power transmission means to rotate the driven gear (43a). Further, when the driven gear (43a) rotates, the gear (42c) meshing with the driven gear (43a) rotates, and the water wheel (42) rotates with this.

    The heater (48) is disposed close to the upper end of the upstream side surface of the humidification rotor (43). The heater (48) is configured to be able to heat the air flowing into the humidification rotor (43).

-Configuration of active species supply unit-
The active species supply unit (50) purifies by supplying active species such as radicals, excited molecules, and ozone to the water in the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41) supplied to the humidification rotor (43). Is to do. As shown in FIG. 3, the active species supply unit (50) includes a discharge processing unit (51) as active species generating means, and supplies the active species generated in the discharge processing unit (51) to the storage tank (41). A conveyance path (55) that leads into the area (32), and a blower pump (64) for blowing active species into the supply area (32) of the storage tank (41) via the conveyance path (55) ing. The blower pump (64) constitutes a blower mechanism according to the present invention.

    The discharge treatment part (51) is disposed in the active species generation chamber (62). Connected to the active species generation chamber (62) are an introduction pipe (61) for introducing air into the active species generation chamber (62) and a transfer pipe (63) forming a transfer path (55). Yes. The inlet pipe (61) has an inflow end opened to the air passage (14), and a blower pump (64) is connected to the middle of the pipe. A part of the air flowing through the air passage (14) is branched and introduced into the introduction pipe (61).

    The discharge processing section (51) is configured to generate active species by streamer discharge. Specifically, the discharge processing part (51) has a rod-shaped electrode (52) and a plate electrode (53). The rod-like electrode (52) is supported by a substrate (52a) provided in the active species generation chamber (62) via a support plate (52b). The rod-like electrode (52) is formed in an elongated line shape and has a substantially circular longitudinal section. The flat plate electrode (53) is formed in a flat plate shape. The rod-shaped electrode (52) and the flat plate electrode (53) are arranged so as to be parallel to each other. The tip of the rod-shaped electrode (52) faces the flat plate electrode (53).

    The rod-like electrode (52) is connected to the positive side of the power source (18), and the plate electrode (53) is connected to the negative side (or ground side) of the power source (18). When a potential difference is applied from the power source (18) to both electrodes (52, 53), streamer discharge occurs from the tip of the rod-shaped electrode (52) toward the flat plate electrode (53). As a result, molecules such as oxygen, nitrogen, and water in the air undergo ionization and excitation, and a large amount of active species such as radicals and excited molecules are generated. Note that a DC high voltage is preferably supplied from the power source (18) to the discharge processing unit (51), and so-called constant current control is preferably performed so that the discharge current is constant.

    With such a configuration, in the active species supply unit (50), the active species are generated in the discharge processing section (51), and the active species are sent out through the transport tube (63). This active species is blown out as bubbles from the outlet (41a) of the storage tank (41) into the water in the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41) through the outlet nozzle (45). 32) The water inside is purified.

    On the other hand, in the supply region (32), the active species that could not be dissolved in water rises by buoyancy, reaches the water surface, and stays in the space above the water surface. Further, the water in the supply region (32) purified by the active species flows out to the humidification region (31) through the communication path (33), and between the supply region (32) and the humidification region (31). Water is distributed.

-Driving action-
The operation of the humidity controller (10) according to the first embodiment will be described. In the humidity control apparatus (10), a humidifying operation for purifying indoor air and humidifying indoor air is performed. In the humidification operation, the centrifugal fan (15) is driven and the humidification rotor (43) is rotationally driven, and the heater (48) is energized. A voltage is applied to the electrode of the ionization section (22).

    As shown in FIG. 2, when the centrifugal fan (15) is driven, indoor air is introduced into the air passage (14) through the suction port (12). The air introduced into the air passage (14) passes through the prefilter (21) and dust is captured, and then passes through the ionization section (22). In the ionization section (22), corona discharge is performed between the electrodes, and dust in the air is charged. The air that has flowed out of the ionization section (22) passes through the pleated filter (23). In the pleated filter (23), the charged dust is electrically attracted and captured. The air that has flowed out of the pleated filter (23) is heated by the heater (48) and then passes through the humidification rotor (43).

    Here, in the humidification unit (40), the water wheel (42) rotates, and the water in the storage tank (41) is appropriately supplied to the adsorption member (43b) of the humidification rotor (43). Specifically, when the water wheel (42) rotates and the recess (42b) is immersed in the water in the storage tank (41), water enters the recess (42b) and is retained in the recess (42b). Is done. As the water turbine (42) further rotates, the concave portion (42b) holding water is pulled up from the water and displaced further upward. Note that as the recess (42b) is pulled up, the recess (42b) gradually approaches the humidification rotor (43). Further, as the recess (42b) is pulled up, the water retained in the recess (42b) gradually flows out of the recess (42b) by its own weight. When the concave portion (42b) reaches the uppermost end position, the water in the concave portion (42b) is almost entirely discharged.

    In addition, the water which flowed out from the recessed part (42b) adheres to the humidification rotor (43) adjacent to the recessed part (42b), and is adsorbed by the adsorption member (43b). With such an operation, in the humidification unit (40), water is continuously supplied to the humidification rotor (43).

    Then, when the air flowing through the air passage (14) flows through the adsorption member (43b), the moisture adsorbed on the adsorption member (43b) is released into the air. As a result, air is humidified. The air purified and humidified as described above is supplied into the room through the air outlet (13). In this humidification operation, it is also possible to perform an operation that does not actively purify air by stopping the supply of voltage from the power source (18) to the ionization unit (22).

-Water purification operation-
By the way, when water is stored in the storage tank (41) for a long time, the germs in the water may propagate to contaminate the water in the storage tank (41). For example, if the air flowing through the air passage (14) contains a substance such as ammonia (hazardous substance or odorous substance), the substance dissolves in the water and contaminates the water in the storage tank (41). Sometimes. Therefore, when such contaminated water is supplied indoors as humidified water, the cleanliness of the room is impaired.

    Therefore, in the humidity control apparatus (10) according to the first embodiment, the water purification operation of purifying water by supplying the active species to the water in the storage tank (41) using the active species supply unit (50). Is possible.

    Specifically, the water purification operation is performed simultaneously with the humidification operation described above, for example. In this water purification operation, the blower pump (64) is operated and a voltage is applied from the power source (18) to the discharge processing section (51). When the blower pump (64) is operated, air is introduced into the active species generation chamber (62) through the introduction pipe (61) (see FIG. 3). In the active species generation chamber (62), the discharge processing unit (51) to which a voltage is applied from the power source (18) generates streamer discharge. As a result, active species are generated in the active species generation chamber (62). The active species are blown by the blower pump (64), flow through the transfer path (55) in the transfer pipe (63) toward the storage tank (41), and are stored in the storage tank (41) via the blowing nozzle (45). It is blown into the water in the supply area (32).

    As a result, harmful substances and germs contained in the water in the supply area (32) of the storage tank (41) are decomposed and removed by the active species, and the water in the supply area (32) of the storage tank (41) Purified. Then, the water purified by the active species is circulated from the supply region (32) toward the humidification region (31) via the communication path (33), and the water in the humidification region (31) is purified. Thereby, various germs and harmful substances in the water can be removed, and water quality purification of the entire storage tank (41) can be performed efficiently. Therefore, during the humidification operation, clean water in the humidification region (31) of the storage tank (41) is given to the air by the humidification rotor (43), so that the cleanliness of the room is not impaired. In the supply region (32), the activated species that have not been completely dissolved in water and have floated to the surface of the water flows out from the exhaust port (34) together with air. At that time, moisture in the air containing active species is removed by the dehumidifying agent (36), and ozone components are decomposed and removed from the active species by the ozone decomposition catalyst (37). Therefore, release of the active species to the outside of the storage tank (41) is suppressed.

    As described above, according to the humidity control apparatus (10) according to the first embodiment, the storage tank (41) is partitioned into the supply region (32) and the humidification region (31) by the partition member (25) and The upper part of the supply area (32) was covered with the covering member (26), and the active species was supplied only to the supply area (32). Therefore, since the release of the active species to the outside of the storage tank (41) is suppressed by the partition member (25) and the covering member (26), even when the humidity control device (10) is used for a long time in a sealed room The ozone concentration contained in the active species is preferable because the indoor ozone concentration does not exceed environmental standards.

    Since the active species are not released outside the storage tank (41), an ozone decomposition catalyst (37) is arranged upstream or downstream of the centrifugal fan (15) in order to decompose and remove ozone components contained in the active species. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in blowing performance due to pressure loss, and it is advantageous for reducing the cost of the catalyst.

    In addition, since the water in the supply area (32) purified by supplying active species flows to the humidification area (31) through the communication path (33), by removing germs and harmful substances in the water, The entire storage tank (41) can efficiently purify water.

<Modification 1>
FIG. 4 is a side sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank according to Modification 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, this modification is configured such that a part of the air sucked by the centrifugal fan (15) is blown to the active species generation chamber (62). Specifically, one end of a branch pipe (15a) for diverting the air flowing through the centrifugal fan (15) is connected to the middle of the flow path of the centrifugal fan (15). The end is connected to the active species generation chamber (62) of the active species supply unit (50).

    Here, when the centrifugal fan (15) is operated and the air blowing operation is performed, the air after the ozone component is decomposed by the ozone decomposition catalyst (37) and the humidified region (31) above the storage tank (41) Air leaking from the gap of the lid member (46) to be closed is sucked into the suction port at the center of the centrifugal fan (15). The air sucked into the centrifugal fan (15) is blown out from the air outlet, but some air is diverted in the middle of the flow path of the centrifugal fan (15) and activated through the branch pipe (15a). It is fed into the seed supply unit (50).

    With such a configuration, the active species generated in the discharge processing section (51) can be reliably sent toward the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41). Further, since air is diverted from the centrifugal fan (15) toward the discharge processing section (51), it is not necessary to separately provide a dedicated blower pump (64) as in the first embodiment, thereby reducing costs. Is advantageous.

<Modification 2>
FIG. 5 is a side sectional view showing an internal configuration of an active species supply unit and a storage tank according to Modification 2 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5, an agitation water wheel (35) as an agitation mechanism for agitating the water in the supply region (32) is disposed in the storage tank (41). The stirring water turbine (35) is disposed in the vicinity of the communication passage (33), and rotates around the central axis (35a) extending in the depth direction in FIG. It is comprised so that may be stirred. The water stirred by the stirring water turbine (35) is forced to flow from the supply region (32) toward the humidification region (31) through the communication path (33).

    A plurality of turbine blades (35b) are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the stirring water turbine (35) at intervals in the circumferential direction. Then, the active species blown into the water from the blow nozzle (45) is blown onto the water wheel blade (35b), and the agitated water wheel (35) rotates clockwise around the central axis (35a) using this bubble as power. In addition, water is distributed.

    With such a configuration, the water in the supply region (32) purified by the active species is forcibly distributed toward the humidification region (31) without staying in the supply region (32). By removing or harmful substances, water quality purification of the entire storage tank (41) can be performed efficiently.

<Embodiment 2>
FIG. 6 is a side sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Since the difference from Embodiment 1 is that an air circulation path (65) for circulating the activated species supplied to the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41) to the blow pump (64) is provided, The same parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and only differences will be described.

    As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the dehumidifying agent (36), the ozone decomposition catalyst (37), and the holding member (38) are omitted from the covering member (26). In this embodiment, the air circulation path (65) is connected between the exhaust port (34) of the covering member (26) and the active species generation chamber (62). A blower pump (64) is connected in the middle of the flow path of the air circulation passage (65). By operating the blower pump (64), a space above the water surface in the supply region (32) is provided. The staying active species is circulated into the active species generation chamber (62) through the exhaust port (34) and the air circulation path (65).

    With such a configuration, the active species can be circulated between the supply region (32) and the active species generation chamber (62) and used without waste, and the generation of the active species in the discharge processing section (51) is achieved. Water purification efficiency can be improved while suppressing the amount. Furthermore, since it is possible to shorten the operation time of the discharge processing section (51) and the blower pump (64) necessary for ensuring the water purification performance, it is advantageous in achieving power saving.

    Further, in the present invention, the discharge operation by the discharge processing unit (51) may be intermittently performed to save power. That is, even if the discharge operation by the discharge processing unit (51) is stopped, the active species in the supply region (32) is recirculated after being collected through the air circulation path (65) by the blower pump (64). Then, the water is continuously supplied to the water and the water is purified.

    Therefore, the active species are consumed at the time of water purification treatment, or the active species are gradually reduced due to natural annihilation, etc. By performing the discharge operation, water purification performance can be ensured with a minimum amount of power, which is advantageous for power saving. In addition, by reducing the discharge time, dirt is less likely to adhere to the discharge electrode, and the discharge electrode is less likely to be worn, thereby extending the life of the discharge electrode.

    In order to intermittently perform the discharge operation by the discharge processing unit (51), it is conceivable to perform feedback control by measuring the concentration of active species in real time with a sensor or the like. If the concentration reduction rate of the active species is calculated in advance, and the discharge operation is controlled intermittently when the active species falls below the predetermined concentration, there is no need to provide a separate sensor for concentration measurement. It is advantageous for reduction.

<Embodiment 3>
FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the active species supply unit and the storage tank according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. The difference from the first embodiment is that a gas-liquid mixing roller (66) for mixing the active species with the water in the supply region (32) is provided. Only the differences will be described.

    As shown in FIG. 7, in the storage tank (41) of the present embodiment, the blowout nozzle (45) is omitted, and the blowout port (41a) opens into a space above the water surface in the supply region (32). ing. The transport pipe (63) of the active species supply unit (50) is connected to the outlet (41a) as in the first embodiment. That is, in the storage tank (41) of the present embodiment, activated species are blown into the space above the water surface in the supply region (32) from the blowout port (41a).

    With such a configuration, the active species is fed into the supply region (32) using a blower pump (64) having a lower discharge pressure than when the active species is directly supplied to the water in the supply region (32). This is advantageous in reducing the cost and extending the life of the entire apparatus.

    A gas-liquid mixing roller (66) is disposed in the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41). The gas-liquid mixing roller (66) is for mixing the water stored in the supply region (32) and the active species that stay in the space above the water surface. The gas-liquid mixing roller (66) is disposed so that the upper part of the roller is exposed from the water surface while the lower part of the roller is immersed in water. The gas-liquid mixing roller (66) constitutes a gas-liquid mixing mechanism according to the present invention.

    The gas-liquid mixing roller (66) is made of a porous material. Further, by rotating clockwise around a rotation shaft (66a) extending in the depth direction in FIG. 7, the outer peripheral surface of the lower part of the roller immersed in water is exposed from the water surface. At this time, film-like water is present on the outer peripheral surface of the roller exposed on the water surface. The active species staying in the space above the water surface reacts with the water film above the roller to purify the water. The purified water present on the upper part of the roller is mixed in the water by the rotation of the gas-liquid mixing roller (66), and the water in the supply region (32) is purified.

    With this configuration, the active species supplied to the supply region (32) is mixed with water by the gas-liquid mixing roller (66) to efficiently remove germs and harmful substances in the water. Purification can be promoted.

    Further, in the present invention, the discharge operation by the discharge processing section (51) and the blow operation by the blow pump (64) may be intermittently performed to save power. That is, even if the discharge operation by the discharge processing section (51) is stopped or the blow operation by the blow pump (64) is stopped, the active species are mixed in the water by the gas-liquid mixing roller (66) and the water is purified. Will be performed. Thus, even if the active species are not continuously supplied toward the supply region (32), the active species staying in the upper space (the space above the water surface) of the supply region (32) By mixing with water in (66), water purification treatment can be continued for a while.

    Therefore, the active species are consumed at the time of water purification treatment, or the active species are gradually reduced due to natural annihilation, etc. By performing the discharge operation and the air blowing operation, water purification performance can be secured with a minimum amount of power, and in order to save power and extend the life of the discharge processing section (51) and the air blow pump (64). It will be advantageous. Moreover, the noise resulting from the operation sound of a ventilation pump (64) can be reduced by performing intermittent operation.

<Other embodiments>
In each of the above-described embodiments and modifications, the active species generating unit is configured by the discharge processing unit (51) that generates active species by streamer discharge. However, the active species generating means according to the present invention is not limited to this form, and an ultraviolet lamp that generates active species by ultraviolet rays may be used. Further, the discharge processing section (51) is not limited to one that causes streamer discharge.

    The humidity control apparatus (10) includes an air purification unit (20) and a humidification unit (40), and is configured to be capable of air purification and humidification operation. However, the humidity control apparatus (10) includes a dehumidification unit. Further, it may be provided with a dehumidifying operation. In this case, by purifying the water collected in the storage tank (41) by the dehumidifying operation, it can be reused as humidifying water without replacing the water.

    As described above, the present invention is extremely useful because it provides a highly practical effect of efficiently purifying water in the storage tank while suppressing release of active species into the atmosphere. And industrial applicability is high.

10 Humidity control device
25 compartments
26 Covering material
31 Humidification area
32 Supply area
33 passage
34 Exhaust vent
35 Stirring water wheel (stirring mechanism)
37 Ozone decomposition catalyst
41 Storage tank
43 Humidification rotor (humidification mechanism)
51 Discharge treatment section
64 Blower pump (Blower mechanism)
65 Air circuit
66 Gas-liquid mixing roller (gas-liquid mixing mechanism)

Claims (8)

A humidity control apparatus comprising a storage tank (41) for storing water, and a humidifying mechanism (43) for humidifying the air by applying water in the storage tank (41) to the air,
A discharge processing section (51) in which discharge is performed so as to generate active species;
In the storage tank (41), the humidification mechanism (43) is arranged to supply the humidified area (31) where water is given to the air and the active species generated in the discharge treatment section (51) are supplied. For dividing the water into the supply region (32) where the water is purified by the active species in the horizontal direction, and for the water formed in the underwater part and purified in the supply region (32) to flow to the humidification region (31) A partition member (25) having a communication passage (33);
A covering member (26) covering the upper side of the supply region (32) in the storage tank (41) ;
A blower mechanism (64) for blowing air to the discharge processing section (51) and supplying air containing active species toward the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41);
The covering member (26) has an exhaust port for exhausting air containing active species that is supplied to the supply region (32) and stays in a space above the surface of the water stored in the supply region (32). (34) is provided,
The covering member (26) includes an air circulation path (65) for circulating air containing the staying active species to the air blowing mechanism (64) through the exhaust port (34). Humidity control device. A humidity control apparatus comprising a storage tank (41) for storing water, and a humidifying mechanism (43) for humidifying the air by applying water in the storage tank (41) to the air,
A discharge processing section (51) in which discharge is performed so as to generate active species;
In the storage tank (41), the humidification mechanism (43) is arranged to supply the humidified area (31) where water is given to the air and the active species generated in the discharge treatment section (51) are supplied. For dividing the water into the supply region (32) where the water is purified by the active species in the horizontal direction, and for the water formed in the underwater part and purified in the supply region (32) to flow to the humidification region (31) A partition member (25) having a communication passage (33);
A covering member (26) covering the upper side of the supply region (32) in the storage tank (41),
The covering member (26) has an exhaust port for exhausting air containing active species that is supplied to the supply region (32) and stays in a space above the surface of the water stored in the supply region (32). (34) is provided,
The humidity control apparatus, wherein the covering member (26) includes an ozone decomposition catalyst (37) disposed at the exhaust port (34) and decomposing an ozone component contained in the active species. In claim 1 or 2 ,
The active species generated in the discharge processing section (51) are in a space above the water level of the stored water in the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41) covered by the covering member (26). A humidity control apparatus characterized by being supplied. In claim 3 ,
Humidity adjustment characterized by comprising a gas-liquid mixing mechanism (66) for mixing the air containing the active species supplied to the supply region (32) and the water stored in the supply region (32) apparatus. In claim 2 ,
A blower mechanism (64) for blowing air to the discharge processing section (51) and supplying air containing active species toward the supply region (32) of the storage tank (41); Humidity control device characterized by. In claim 1 or 2 ,
An agitation mechanism (35) for agitating the water in the storage tank (41) to forcibly circulate the water in the supply region (32) to the humidification region (31) via the communication passage (33). A humidity control device. In claim 1 or 2 ,
A humidity control apparatus in which the discharge operation by the discharge processing section (51) is intermittently performed. In claim 1 or 5 ,
The humidity control apparatus characterized in that the air blowing operation by the air blowing mechanism (64) is intermittently performed.

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