JP6760795B2 - Hydrogen generation system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a hydrogen generation system in which water is electrolyzed in a water storage unit that holds water such as a bathtub to generate hydrogen, and hydrogen can be introduced into the water of the water storage unit.

After purifying the supplied tap water, well water, etc., the electrolyzed water generator (ion water conditioner) that electrolyzes these water to generate electrolyzed water, that is, alkaline electrolyzed water that can be used as drinking water, is often used. Although it is known, in recent years, hydrogen gas or electrolyzed water obtained by electrolysis has been introduced into the water of the bathtub to improve the reducing power of the water in the bathtub as a means of utilizing the electrolysis of water other than such drinking purposes. A device has been proposed for the purpose of enhancing and producing an effect such as suppressing oxidation on the skin of a user who has taken a bath. Examples of such a conventional electrolyzed water generator include those disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-122750 and Japanese Patent No. 4497558.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-122750 Japanese Patent No. 4497558

The conventional electrolyzed water generator has the configuration shown in the above patent document, and the water once taken out from the bathtub is put into the electrolytic cell to perform electrolysis, and the water containing the generated electrolyzed water is circulated in the bathtub. Therefore, there was a problem that the effects of hydrogen and electrolyzed water were easily lost during the circulation from the electrolytic cell to the tub, and the effects could not be sufficiently exerted.

In addition, such a conventional device requires an electrolytic cell, piping for circulating water, etc. outside the bathtub, and has a complicated structure, which makes installation laborious and costly, and is easy. There was a problem that it could not be introduced.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems. By generating hydrogen in the immediate vicinity of a water storage section with water, the generated hydrogen can be introduced into the water of the water storage section without being lost, and the structure is simplified. The purpose is to provide a hydrogen generation system that can be converted.

The hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention is arranged on a wall or bottom below the water surface position in a water storage portion where a predetermined amount of water or hot water is held, and is arranged so as to project outward from the wall or bottom. A chamber portion is provided inside which communicates with the inner region of the water storage portion through the opening portion of the wall or the bottom of the water storage portion, and the water or hot water in the water storage portion can be circulated in the void portion, and for electrolysis of water. Between the counter electrode portion, which is formed by alternately arranging one or more of the anode portion and the cathode portion in a facing state and integrally arranged, and is detachably arranged in the chamber portion, and between the anode portion and the cathode portion of the counter electrode portion. A water flow generating means for generating a flow state of water or hot water is provided, and power is supplied to the counter electrode portion from a predetermined power feeding means to generate at least hydrogen bubbles, and the hydrogen bubbles are generated from the chamber portion to the water storage portion. It is introduced into water or hot water.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, a counter electrode portion for electrolysis is provided in the chamber portion provided facing the inner region of the water storage portion, and the water in the water storage portion is circulated and opposed in the chamber portion. In addition to generating bubbles due to electrolysis on each surface of the electrode section, a water flow generating means actively generates a water flow between the counter electrode sections, and hydrogen bubbles are separated from the surface of the counter electrode section to separate the hydrogen bubbles from the chamber section into the water storage section. By advancing to, it can be easily installed as a simple structure that directly introduces hydrogen bubbles into the water in the water storage part from the water storage part and the continuous chamber part, and the cost for introduction can be suppressed. Hydrogen can reach the water storage section without being lost from the water, and hydrogen can be retained in the water storage section as much as possible. Further, hydrogen bubbles generated on the surface of the cathode portion of the counter electrode portion can be quickly separated from the counter electrode portion by the water flow generating means and introduced into the water of the water storage portion, and the size of the bubbles can be increased immediately after the bubbles are generated. Hydrogen bubbles, which are small and have a small buoyancy, can be retained in water for a longer period of time without being levitated early, and hydrogen generated by electrolysis remains in the water in the water storage as much as possible to increase the hydrogen concentration in the water in the water storage. The antioxidant effect of hydrogen can be efficiently exerted. Further, by arranging the counter electrode portion in the chamber portion located on the outer side of the wall or bottom of the water storage portion, when a person enters the water storage portion, it is difficult for the limbs to reach the chamber portion, so that the person can reach the inside of the water storage portion. It is unlikely that the counter electrode portion will be in contact with the counter electrode portion by mistake, and reliability and safety can be ensured.

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the power feeding means is arranged outside the chamber part so as to be adjacent to the chamber part, and the power feeding part for non-contact power transmission and the inside of the chamber part. A power receiving unit for non-contact power transmission paired with the power feeding unit, which is arranged at a predetermined position facing the power feeding unit and is capable of supplying power to at least the counter electrode unit. Is.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, power is transmitted in a non-contact manner between the power supply unit outside the water storage unit and the power receiving unit in the chamber unit, and power is supplied to each unit in the chamber unit. By eliminating the need for a power supply lead wire that leads from the outside to the inside of the chamber, it is not necessary to provide a penetration part through which the lead wire passes in the outer shell part of the water storage part or the chamber part, while ensuring the waterproof state around the chamber part. A complicated structure such as power line terminal connection is not required, the number of parts can be reduced and the electrical connection structure can be simplified, and the structure related to the waterproofing of the chamber can be simplified, and the cost can be reduced.

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the water flow generating means operates by being supplied with electric power from the power feeding means, and takes in water or hot water of the water storage part to take in water or hot water of the water storage part to form the counter electrode part. It is a pump part that sends out between each anode part and the cathode part.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, as a means for generating a water flow, a pump unit that is fed and operates is provided, and water is supplied by the pump unit between the anode portion and the cathode portion of the counter electrode portion to generate a water flow. By changing the operating state of the pump unit, it is easy to obtain a water flow having a desired flow velocity, the size of bubbles can be changed based on the flow velocity of the water flow, and the degree of rise of bubbles in water can be appropriately set. Increase the flow velocity to promote separation when the size of hydrogen bubbles is small, increase the concentration of hydrogen bubbles in water as small hydrogen bubbles that are difficult to float in water, or reduce the flow velocity of water flow to grow large hydrogen bubbles. It is possible to obtain hydrogen bubbles having a size that allows them to easily float in water, and to enable rapid release of hydrogen bubbles into water.

Further, the hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention is arranged in the chamber portion as a waterproof state, electrically connected to the power receiving portion, and at least from the power receiving portion to the counter electrode portion. A control circuit unit that controls the power supply of the power supply unit and an operation control unit that is arranged outside the water storage unit and issues a control instruction to the control circuit unit in response to an input operation of the user, and includes the power supply unit and the power receiving unit. The unit enables communication between the power supply unit and the power receiving unit in parallel with the power transmission, the operation control unit is electrically connected to the power supply unit, and at least from the operation control unit to the control circuit unit. The signal transmission related to the energization control of the counter electrode unit is performed through the power feeding unit and the power receiving unit.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, power is transmitted between the power feeding unit and the power receiving unit, and communication between the power feeding unit and the power receiving unit can be performed in parallel, and the power is distributed outside the water storage unit. By transmitting a control signal from the operation control unit provided to the control circuit unit provided in the chamber unit by communication between the power supply unit and the power receiving unit, the operation control unit and the control circuit unit can be connected to each other. Communication related to control can be performed non-contactly without a wired connection between them, eliminating the need for complicated structures such as signal line terminal connections while ensuring a waterproof state, reducing the number of parts and simplifying the electrical connection structure. At the same time, the structure related to waterproofing of the chamber can be simplified, and the cost can be reduced.

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the power receiving unit heats the surrounding water or hot water by heat generated by power transmission to generate heat convection of water or hot water, and the counter electrode It also serves as the water flow generating means that provides a flow state of water or hot water between each anode portion and the cathode portion of the unit.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, heat convection of water is generated by the heat generated from the power receiving portion in the chamber portion that transmits power, and based on this heat convection, between the anode portion and the cathode portion of the counter electrode portion. By allowing water to flow and using the power receiving unit as a water flow generating means, it is not necessary to separately provide a water flow generating means in addition to the power receiving unit, the structure can be simplified, and a movable part for generating a water flow can be simplified. The mechanism with the cathode is not required, troubles are less likely to occur, and the reliability of water flow can be improved.

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the water flow generating means is supplied with electric power from the power feeding means to generate heat, and heats the surrounding water or hot water to heat convection of water or hot water. Is used as a heater that gives a flow state of water or hot water between each anode portion and the cathode portion of the counter electrode portion.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, heat convection of water is generated by the heat generated from the heater in the chamber portion, and water is circulated between the anode portion and the cathode portion of the counter electrode portion based on this heat convection. By using the heater as the water flow generating means, the structure of the water flow generating means can be simplified, and a mechanism having a moving part is not required to generate the water flow, failure is unlikely to occur, and reliability related to water flow is achieved. You can improve your sex.

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention, if necessary, the power receiving portion is arranged in the chamber portion having a coil portion in which the metal material portion having corrosion resistance is exposed, and the anode in the counter electrode portion. It serves as either a unit or a cathode unit.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, when the power receiving portion in the chamber portion that performs power transmission also serves as one electrode of the counter electrode portion and shifts to the energized state by power transmission, the metal portion of the power receiving portion exposed in water. Makes an electrode for electrolysis, promotes electrolysis of surrounding water, and generates gas on the metal surface, so that it is not necessary to separately provide an electrode on the same electrode side in addition to the power receiving part, and the structure is simplified. At the same time, the heat generated by the power transmission at the power receiving part brings about heat convection of water, and it also acts as a kind of water flow generating means that gives the water flow state to the vicinity of the power receiving part, and the power receiving that forms an electrode. It is possible to promote the flow of water in the vicinity of the portion, facilitate the contact between the metal portion of the power receiving portion and the water in the water storage portion, and perform electrolysis of water more efficiently.

Further, the hydrogen generation system according to the disclosure of the present invention includes, if necessary, at least a predetermined support frame portion that is detachably arranged with respect to the chamber portion, and the counter electrode portion arranged in the chamber portion. The water flow generating means and the power receiving portion are attached to the support frame portion, and the support frame portion together with the support frame portion can be attached to and detached from the chamber portion.

As described above, according to the disclosure of the present invention, the counter electrode portion disposed in the chamber portion, the water flow generating means, and the power receiving portion are attached to the support frame portion, and the support frame portion and the chamber portion are provided with the support frame portion. It is removable all at once, and each part stored in the chamber can be handled together, so that when installing or removing from these chambers for maintenance or replacement of each part in the chamber, Work can be done efficiently and excellent maintainability is given.

It is a schematic block diagram of the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram of the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the main part in the chamber part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a top view of the counter electrode part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the bubble separation state when the flow velocity of the water flow between the counter electrode portions is large in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a bubble separation state when the flow velocity of water flow between counter electrode portions is small in the hydrogen generation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of the attachment / detachment state of each part in a chamber part and a support frame part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of application state to other water storage part of the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the main part in another chamber part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the lead wire connection state into the chamber part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the battery arrangement state in the chamber part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the main part in the chamber part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of another structural example in a chamber part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of another structural example of the counter electrode part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the main part in the chamber part in the hydrogen generation system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment of this invention.

(First Embodiment of the present invention)
Hereinafter, the hydrogen generation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7. In the present embodiment, an example of a system applied when the water storage unit is a bathtub and hydrogen is introduced into the water or hot water in the bathtub used for bathing will be described.

In each of the above figures, the hydrogen generation system 1 according to the present embodiment has a chamber portion 10 arranged at the bottom of a water storage unit 90, which is a bathtub in which a predetermined amount of water is contained, and an arrangement of water protruding outward from the bottom. A plurality of electrode portions 21 and cathode portions 22 for electrolysis are alternately arranged side by side and integrated, and are arranged in a facing electrode portion 20 detachably arranged in the chamber portion 10 and in the chamber portion 10. The pump unit 30 as the water flow generating means for generating a water flow state between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20 and the feeding unit as the feeding means for supplying power to the counter electrode portion 20. 40, a power receiving unit 50 that is arranged in the chamber unit 10 and is electrically connected to the counter electrode unit 20 and electrically connected to the power receiving unit 50 to energize the counter electrode unit 20 from the power receiving unit 50. The control circuit unit 60 that controls the water storage unit 90, the operation control unit 70 that issues a control instruction to the control circuit unit 60 in response to an input operation by the user outside the water storage unit 90, the counter electrode unit 20, the pump unit 30, and the power receiving unit. It is configured to include a support frame portion 80 to which the portion 50 is attached and which can be attached to and detached from the chamber portion 10.

The mechanism itself for generating electrolyzed water or gas by electrolysis of water, such as the counter electrode portion 20 and each component for energization in the hydrogen generation system 1 of the present embodiment, is known as a hydrogen water generator or the like. It is the same as the electrolyzed water generator, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The chamber portion 10 is arranged at the bottom of the water storage portion 90 so as to project outward from the bottom, and a gap portion communicating with the inner region of the water storage portion 90 is provided inside through the opening portion of the bottom of the water storage portion 90. It is a structure that allows water or hot water in the water storage section to be circulated in the void portion. The chamber portion 10 is provided so as to be continuous with the outer shell portion that separates the water storage portion 90 from the outside, and is configured to prevent water leakage from between the chamber portion 10 and the water storage portion 90.

The chamber portion 10 corresponds to a recess provided in a part of the bottom of the water storage portion 90 when viewed from the inner region of the water storage portion 90, and when water or hot water is put into the water storage portion 90, the chamber is simultaneously chambered. It is a mechanism that allows water or hot water to be introduced into the section 10.

The counter electrode portion 20 is formed by alternately arranging and integrating a plurality of anode portions 21 and cathode portions 22 made of a thin metal plate so as to face each other at predetermined intervals, and the anode portions are formed on the support frame portion 80. The structure is such that the 21 and the cathode portion 22 are attached so as to coincide with each other in the vertical direction and are detachably arranged in the chamber portion 10.

The anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 forming the counter electrode portion 20 are respectively provided with a plurality of through holes 21a and 22a for facilitating the passage of air bubbles to the upper water storage portion 90. The anode unit 21 and the cathode unit 22 are electrically connected to the control circuit unit 60 to control energization.

When water is present around the counter electrode portion 20 in the chamber portion 10 and the counter electrode portion 20 is energized under the control of the control circuit unit 60, the water is electrolyzed and hydrogen is generated. It is a mechanism to generate bubbles of oxygen and introduce these gases into the water in the water storage unit 90.

The counter electrode portion 20 is arranged in the upper part of the chamber portion 10 in a state of being attached to the support frame portion 80, and facilitates the transfer of air bubbles generated in the counter electrode portion 20 to the water storage portion 90. A part of the support frame portion 80 is provided on the upper side of the counter electrode portion 20 so as to cover the counter electrode portion 20 in a cover shape, and the counter electrode portion 20 is protected by the support frame portion 80. There is.

The counter electrode portion 20 is detachable from the chamber portion 10, and when the counter electrode portion 20 is removed from the chamber portion 10, maintenance such as removing precipitates from the counter electrode portion 20 can be performed. , Can be replaced with a new one.

The anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 forming the counter electrode portion 20 are not limited to the configuration formed as a simple flat plate-shaped thin plate made of metal, and may be provided with irregularities or ribs so as to increase the surface area, or may be finely bellows-shaped. It can also have a shape that is bent many times.

The pump portion 30 is arranged in the chamber portion 10 so as to be located on the side of the counter electrode portion 20 as a means for generating water flow, and a state of water flow between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20. This is a configuration in which power can be supplied from the power receiving unit 50 by being electrically connected to the control circuit unit 60. The pump unit 30 is a small one that can be arranged in the chamber unit 10, but has the same function as a known electric pump in that it operates by being supplied with electric power and supplies water. Detailed description will be omitted.

The pump unit 30 operates based on the control of the control circuit unit 60 in which electric power is supplied from the power supply unit 40, which is a part of the power supply means, via the power receiving unit 50, and takes in the water of the water storage unit 90 to take in the water of the water storage unit 90 to take in the counter electrode unit. It will be sent out between each anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of 20.

By adjusting the flow velocity of the water flow generated between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20 by the pump portion 30, the size of the bubbles exiting the counter electrode portion 20 is adjusted and controlled, and the water in the water storage portion 90 is controlled. The size of the air bubbles to be introduced into the water can be adjusted appropriately. For example, when the flow velocity of the water flow is increased, hydrogen bubbles are introduced into the water of the water storage section 90 away from the cathode section 22 in a smaller state (see FIG. 5), and small hydrogen bubbles that are difficult to rise in the water become more. It is expected to be kept in water for a long time.

Further, for example, when the flow velocity of the water flow is reduced, oxygen bubbles are connected to adjacent objects and grow, and in a state where the bubbles become larger, they separate from each anode portion 21 and reach the water of the water storage portion 90 (FIG. 6), it is expected that large oxygen bubbles that easily rise in the water will be rapidly released from the water into the air.

The arrangement relationship between the pump unit 30 and the counter electrode unit 20 is shown as an example in which water can be introduced from the pump unit 30 in parallel with the continuous direction of the gap between the counter electrode units 20, but the present invention is not limited to this. Water from the pump section is sent in a direction perpendicular to the electrode surface of the counter electrode section, and the water flow enters and exits the region between the electrode sections through each through hole of the electrode section and the side of the electrode section, and the water storage section. It is also possible to set the arrangement so as to proceed toward 90.

The power feeding unit 40 is a known device provided with a coil or the like and used for non-contact power transmission by electromagnetic induction, and has a configuration adjacent to the outside of the chamber unit 10. The power feeding unit 40 forms a part of the power feeding means, receives power from an external power source, realizes power transmission by a non-contact method such as electromagnetic induction in combination with the power receiving unit 50, and causes the power receiving unit 50. Electric power is supplied to the counter electrode portion 20 and the pump portion 30 via the above.

The power receiving unit 50 is a known device provided with a coil or the like and paired with a power feeding unit 40 used for non-contact power transmission by electromagnetic induction, and is arranged at a predetermined position in the chamber unit 10 facing the power feeding unit 40. It is configured to be electrically connected to the control circuit unit 60 and to be able to supply electric power to the counter electrode unit 20 and the pump unit 30 via the control circuit unit 60.

The power receiving portion 50 is also attached to the support frame portion 80 and can be attached to and detached from the chamber portion 10 together with the support frame portion 80.
If the power receiving unit 50 is removed from the chamber unit 10 together with the integrated support frame unit 80 and other parts, it becomes impossible to maintain the conditions under which the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50 can transmit power, and the power transmission is interrupted. It becomes. In this case, since the energization of the counter electrode portion 20 and the pump portion 30 and the like can be automatically stopped, safety can be ensured even if the counter electrode portion 20 and the like are exposed.

The power receiving unit 50 is not limited to a configuration in which an element such as a coil that receives power from a pair of power feeding units 40 in a non-contact power feeding method and a peripheral circuit are combined, and is not limited to a direct contact type. It has a conductive structure, that is, the power receiving portion is formed of a conductive member forming a terminal, is electrically connected to the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20, and penetrates the chamber portion 10. A part that reaches the outside may be electrically connected to the terminal portion on the power feeding means side.

With respect to the power receiving unit 50 and the power feeding unit 40, communication between the power receiving unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50 is possible in parallel with power transmission. Through these power feeding units 40 and power receiving units 50, signals related to energization control of the counter electrode unit 20 from the operation control unit 70 to the control circuit unit 60 can be transmitted.

The control circuit unit 60 is arranged in the chamber unit 10 in a waterproof state, is electrically connected to the counter electrode unit 20 and the pump unit 30, and is also connected to the power receiving unit 50 in a state of receiving power supply. It controls the energization of the counter electrode unit 20 and the pump unit 30 from the power receiving unit 50. When an operation input is made from the operation control unit 70 by the user and a control signal from the operation control unit 70 is input to the control circuit unit 60, the control circuit unit 60 corresponds to the operation and the counter electrode unit 20 And control so that the pump unit 30 is energized.

The operation control unit 70 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 40, and is arranged outside the water storage unit 90 so as to be embedded in the same wall as the ground surface of the hot water supply operation panel for a bathtub such as a bathroom. The configuration is such that a control instruction to the control circuit unit 60 can be transmitted via communication made through the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50 in response to an input operation by the user.

The operation control unit 70 has a plurality of switches for instructing on / off of the power supply, start of energization for introducing hydrogen into water, and the like, and receives the operation input of the user, and is received from the operation control unit 70. The signal transmission related to the energization control of the counter electrode unit 20 and the pump unit 30 to the control circuit unit 60 is performed through the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50.

The support frame portion 80 is a frame-like body that is detachably arranged from the inner region of the water storage portion 90 with respect to the chamber portion 10, and the counter electrode portion 20, the pump portion 30, and the power receiving portion 50 are attached. These are integrated and can be attached to and detached from the chamber portion 10. In addition, a control circuit unit 60 is also attached to the support frame unit 80, and the control circuit unit 60 can be attached to and detached from the chamber unit 10 together with the support frame unit 80.

A part of the support frame portion 80 is located above the counter electrode portion 20 and covers the counter electrode portion 20 in a cover shape, and a person mistakenly touches the counter electrode portion 20 from the water storage portion 90 side. While isolating and protecting it so that it does not pass through, it does not hinder the electrolysis of water in the counter electrode section 20 and the progress of hydrogen bubbles from the counter electrode section 20 side to the water storage section 90 side. There is.

The support frame portion 80 and each component attached to the support frame portion 80 are attached to and detached from the inner region of the water storage portion 90 to the chamber portion 10 together with the support frame portion 80 through the opening portion at the bottom of the water storage portion 90. It will be.

Next, the usage state of the hydrogen generation system according to the present embodiment will be described. As a premise, the power supply unit 40 as a part of the power supply means provided outside the water storage unit 90 is connected to a power supply device (not shown) forming another part of the power supply means to receive power supply. It is assumed that power can be supplied to the counter electrode unit 20 and the pump unit 30 based on the known non-contact power transmission by the pair of the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50. Further, the chamber section 10 is provided with the counter electrode section 20, the pump section 30, the power receiving section 50, and the control circuit section 60 in advance, and a sufficient amount of water is introduced into the water storage section 90. And.

If it is confirmed that the desired hydrogen bubbles cannot be generated due to the water quality even when energization is performed for a preset standard energization time, a calcium agent or the like as an electrolytic auxiliary agent is added to the water of the water storage unit 90. It may be replenished to adjust the water quality to a state in which an appropriate amount of hydrogen bubbles can be generated by electrolysis.

First, when the user inputs an instruction operation such as pressing a switch for hydrogen generation instruction to the operation control unit 70 which can accept the operation input of the user related to hydrogen generation in the water storage unit 90. , The power feeding unit 40 is energized, non-contact power transmission between the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50 starts, and the control circuit unit 60 in the chamber unit 10 receives the power supply and operates.

In parallel with the power transmission between the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50, communication is also possible between the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50, and a control signal related to the operation input received by the operation control unit 70. However, the signal is transmitted from the operation control unit 70 to the power feeding unit 40 by a wire, the non-contact communication between the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50, and the signal transmission from the power receiving unit 50 to the control circuit unit 60. Finally, it is transmitted to the control circuit unit 60.

When the control circuit unit 60 receives this control signal, the control circuit unit 60 of the counter electrode unit 20 so as to obtain a preset amount of hydrogen bubbles based on the operation input content received by the operation control unit 70. The anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 are energized to allow the electrolysis of water around the counter electrode portion 20 in the chamber portion 10 to proceed.

The electrolysis of water by energizing the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20 proceeds in the region sandwiched between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 facing each other. As in the case of the known electrolysis of water, on the cathode portion 22 side, gaseous hydrogen is generated by reduction, a large amount of hydrogen is generated as bubbles on the surface of the cathode portion 22, and each bubble grows.
Further, on the anode portion 21 side, gaseous oxygen is generated by oxidation, a large amount of oxygen is generated as bubbles on the surface of the anode portion 21, and each bubble grows.

The control circuit unit 60 energizes the counter electrode unit 20 related to electrolysis and also energizes the pump unit 30. At the same time as electrolysis, the operation of the pump unit 30 causes the anode portion of the counter electrode unit 20 to be energized. Water is supplied between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22, and the water flows between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22.

During the electrolysis in this way, the bubbles generated on the surfaces of the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 grow to a predetermined size when there is no flow of water, and then leave the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 due to the buoyancy. However, since the pump section 30 generates a sufficient water flow between the anode section 21 and the cathode section 22, hydrogen bubbles generated in the cathode section 22 can be promoted to separate from the surface of the cathode section 22. ..

Therefore, the hydrogen bubbles generated on the surface of the cathode portion 22 do not grow much and leave the surface of the cathode portion 22 in a small state, and go upward through the side or through holes of the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 and underwater. Proceed from the chamber portion 10 into the water storage portion 90.

By keeping the bubbles small when the hydrogen bubbles move upward and reach the water of the water storage unit 90 in this way, the buoyancy of the hydrogen bubbles can be suppressed, and the hydrogen bubbles do not float early and are separated by the water. It can be held for a long time. That is, the amount (concentration) of hydrogen in water can be increased, and the function of preventing oxidation by hydrogen in water can be maximized.

The size of the air bubbles can be adjusted by controlling the operating state of the pump unit 30 by the control circuit unit 60 and changing the flow velocity of the water flow to change the degree to which the water flow separates the air bubbles from each surface of the counter electrode unit 20. Make the bubbles smaller to reduce buoyancy and make them harder to rise so that they stay in the water longer, or make the bubbles larger to increase buoyancy and make them easier to rise so that they are quickly released from the water into the air. It is possible.

Further, the pump unit 30 that is supplied with power and operates generates a sufficient water flow between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20, so that the counter electrode portion 20 and the water in the water storage portion 90 come into contact with each other. It can increase opportunities and promote electrolysis of water to efficiently generate hydrogen.

While the chamber section 10 electrolyzes water by energizing the counter electrode section 20 and hydrogen bubbles are introduced into the water storage section, the operation control section 70 determines the elapsed time from receiving the operation related to hydrogen generation. It is measured and acquired. When this elapsed time reaches the preset time for completing the electrolysis of water, the operation control unit 70 transmits a control signal for stopping the operation related to the power transmission to the power supply unit 40, and receives the control signal. When the power feeding unit 40 shifts to a state in which power is not transmitted to the power receiving unit 50, the counter electrode unit 20 and the like are not energized, and the electrolysis of water is completed.

When the counter electrode unit 20 and the pump unit 30 need to be maintained or replaced due to repeated use of generating hydrogen by electrolysis of water, the counter electrode unit 20 and the pump unit 30 are used together with these. The integrated support frame portion 80 is pulled out from the chamber portion 10 and removed (see FIG. 7), and the counter electrode portion 20 and the pump portion 30 are further removed from the support frame portion 80 as necessary to perform maintenance and the like. It becomes.

When the counter electrode portion 20, the pump portion 30, and the control circuit portion 60 attached to the support frame portion 80 are arranged in the chamber portion 10 again, each component is arranged together with the support frame portion 80 from the inner region of the water storage portion. It will be inserted and attached to the chamber portion 10 through the opening portion at the bottom of the water storage portion. In this case, related to the attachment of the support frame portion 80 and each component to the chamber portion 10, the power receiving portion 50 is reliably positioned at an appropriate position facing the power feeding portion 40 outside the chamber portion 10, and power transmission can be appropriately performed. As described above, only when a mark (mark) as a guide for the mounting position and orientation is provided on both the support frame portion 80 and the chamber portion 10, or when the support frame portion 80 has an appropriate mounting position and orientation with respect to the chamber portion 10. It is preferable that the support frame portion 80 and each component are formed so as to be fitted to each other so as to fit in the chamber portion 10.

As described above, the hydrogen generation system according to the present embodiment generates hydrogen bubbles due to electrolysis on the surface of the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20 in the chamber portion 10 in which the water in the water storage portion 90 flows. The pump unit 30 positively generates a water flow between the counter electrode portions 20, causes hydrogen bubbles to separate from the surface of the counter electrode portion 20 and advances from the chamber portion 10 into the water storage portion 90, and becomes water in the water storage portion 90. Since the introduced hydrogen bubbles increase the hydrogen concentration of the water in the water storage section 90, the hydrogen bubbles generated on the surface of the cathode section 22 of the counter electrode section 20 are separated while the water flow by the pump section 30 is small. It can be introduced into the water of the water storage unit 90, and the hydrogen bubbles whose buoyancy is suppressed as small bubbles can be retained in the water for a longer time without floating at an early stage, and the hydrogen generated by electrolysis can be stored in the water storage unit 90 as much as possible. By leaving it in water, the antioxidant effect of hydrogen can be efficiently exerted in the water storage unit 90.

Further, as a simple structure for directly introducing hydrogen bubbles into the water in the water storage unit 90, it can be easily installed and the cost for introduction can be suppressed. Further, the counter electrode portion 20 is arranged in the chamber portion 10 which is a recess connected to the water storage portion 90, and when a person enters the water storage portion 90, it is difficult for the limbs to reach the inside of the chamber portion 90. It is unlikely that a person will accidentally come into contact with the counter electrode portion 20, and reliability and safety can be ensured.

In the hydrogen generation system according to the above embodiment, the chamber portion 10 is arranged at the bottom of the water storage portion 90 so as to project outward from the bottom, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the chamber portion is not limited to this. Arranged as an arrangement protruding outward from this wall at a predetermined position on the wall below the water surface position in the water storage section that holds a predetermined amount of water or hot water, and the inner region of the water storage section through the opening of the wall of the water storage section. It is also possible to provide a gap portion that communicates with the water, and as in the above embodiment, the water or hot water in the water storage portion can flow through the gap portion of the chamber portion, and hydrogen bubbles are provided from the chamber portion to the water in the water storage portion. Can be introduced.

Further, even if the shape of the water storage unit is not a simple concave shape composed of the bottom and the surrounding wall, but a complicated shape partially protruding from the bottom or wall in a convex or platform shape, the water storage unit 91 in the used state. If it is a place that can come into contact with water below the water surface position inside, make the upper surface or side surface of the convex or platform-shaped part as a part of the bottom or wall of the water storage part 91, and position the opening part in these. The chamber portion 11 may be arranged (see FIG. 8).

In addition, the water storage unit is a bathtub, and a circulation flow path that guides the water or hot water in the bathtub to the outside, passes it through a water heater, a so-called balance kettle, etc., and then returns it to the bathtub is communicated in the bathtub. In the case where a water inlet or outlet is provided on the wall or bottom of the bathtub, or a circulation metal fitting (circulation adapter) is provided to collect the inflow outlets, the bathtub is, for example, as shown in FIG. With respect to the wall of the water storage portion 92, a portion of the device 93 that serves as an inflow port for water so as to protrude to the outside of the water storage portion also serves as a chamber portion 12, and a counter electrode portion 20 is provided in the water inflow path inside the chamber portion 12. You can also do it.

In such a configuration, the flow associated with the circulation of water or hot water between the water storage unit and the external water heater, balance kettle, etc. can be regarded as the flow generated by the water flow generating means as it is. If the counter electrode portion 20 is used for electrolysis to generate hydrogen bubbles, it is not necessary to provide a special water flow generating means only for the purpose of generating a water flow between the counter electrode portions 20. ..

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the above embodiment, a special pair of power feeding unit 40 and power receiving unit 50 is used to supply power to each component in the chamber unit 10 by non-contact power transmission without using a conductor such as a cable. At the same time, the control signal is transmitted from the outside to the inside of the chamber unit 10 via non-contact communication similar to the power transmission between the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50, but the present invention is not limited to this. As shown in, a general direct conductor connection by a cable 43 and a connector 44 is adopted for power supply and control signal communication, and a conductor connection portion and a chamber portion 10 penetration portion of parts such as these cables and connectors are combined. It is also possible to construct a system for waterproofing in the above, and by not using parts such as a special power feeding part and power receiving part for non-contact power transmission, it is possible to construct a system without being affected by the availability of parts so much.

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the above embodiment, the electric power supplied from an external power source as a power feeding means can be introduced into each component in the chamber portion 10 by non-contact electric power transmission by the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 50. In addition to this, as shown in FIG. 11, a rechargeable battery 65 is provided in the chamber portion 10, and power is supplied from the battery 65 for energizing the counter electrode portion 20 and energizing the pump portion 30. On the other hand, the battery 65 may be charged by non-contact power transmission between the power supply unit 40 outside the chamber unit 10 and the power receiving unit 50 inside the chamber unit 10, and is performed by known non-contact power transmission. By adopting the charging mechanism of the secondary battery, the system can be constructed more simply.

Further, in the hydrogen generation system according to the above embodiment, each part such as the counter electrode part 20 and the pump part 30 housed in the chamber part 10 is integrated with the support frame part 80, and when handling maintenance or the like for each of these parts, Each of these parts is attached to and detached from the chamber portion 10 together with the support frame portion 80, but the present invention is not limited to this, and each component such as the counter electrode portion 20 and the pump portion 30 is separated from the support frame portion. It is possible, or a part of the support frame part to which each of these parts is attached can be separated from the other part of the support frame part, or each part can be directly connected to the chamber part 10 without using the support frame part. It is also possible to attach the counter electrode portion 20 and the like to the chamber portion 10 so as to be detachably attached to the chamber portion 10 instead of collecting all the parts such as the counter electrode portion 20 together.

(Second Embodiment of the present invention)
In the hydrogen generation system according to the above embodiment, the pump unit 30 is provided as the water flow generating means, but the present invention is not limited to this, and another water flow generating means may be used, for example, water. A pump that is heated to generate a water flow associated with heat convection can be adopted. In particular, it is known that the power receiving unit 50 that performs non-contact power transmission in combination with the power feeding unit 40 of the above embodiment tends to generate heat in principle, but the second embodiment of the present invention utilizing this point. As a form, as shown in FIG. 12, a power receiving unit 52 that generates heat due to power transmission may be used as a water flow generating means.

In this case, the power receiving unit 52 heats the surrounding water by the heat generated by the electric power transmission, and causes thermal convection of the water. Due to the generation of an ascending flow due to the convection of water due to such heat, an upward flow of water is generated around each anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20 arranged near the power receiving portion 52, and water is generated from the other portion. Is about to flow into the region between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22, and water is about to flow out from between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 to the periphery between the anode portions 21 and the cathode portion 22. Will give the water distribution status to.

The heat generated from the power receiving unit 52 in the chamber unit 10 that transmits power in this way causes heat convection of water, and based on this heat convection, water is transferred between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20. By using the power receiving unit 52 as a water flow generating means so as to circulate, it is not necessary to separately provide a water flow generating means in addition to the power receiving unit 52, the structure can be simplified, and a movable portion for generating a water flow can be simplified. The mechanism with the above is not required, failure is unlikely to occur, and the reliability of water flow can be improved.

In addition, as shown in FIG. 13, a heater 32 may be arranged instead of the pump portion as the water flow generating means. In this case, the heater 32 is supplied with electric power from the power receiving unit 50 through the control circuit unit 60 to generate heat, and heats the surrounding water to generate heat convection of the water, whereby each anode of the counter electrode unit 20 is similarly described above. A water flow state can be provided between the portion 21 and the cathode portion 22.

In this way, heat convection of water is generated by the heat generated from the heater 32 in the chamber portion 10, and water is circulated between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20 based on this heat convection. By using the heater 32 as the water flow generating means, the structure of the water flow generating means can be simplified, a mechanism having a moving part is not required to generate the water flow, a failure does not easily occur, and the reliability of the water flow is improved. Can be enhanced.

It should be noted that water is heated by the heat generated from a heat generating source such as a power receiving portion or a heater, and water is circulated between the anode portion 21 and the cathode portion 22 of the counter electrode portion 20 by utilizing heat convection. In the case, as shown in FIG. 14, the direction in which the anode portion 26 and the cathode portion 27 forming the counter electrode portion 25 are arranged is set to be perpendicular to the vertical direction, and the gap between the anode portion 26 and the cathode portion 27 is in the vertical direction. It is also possible to arrange them so as to be continuous, so that the water heated by the heat generating source can continue to rise between the anode portion 26 and the cathode portion 27 without being particularly hindered by others, and the anode portion 26 and the cathode portion can be arranged. It is possible to secure a state in which water continuously flows between 27, increase the flow velocity due to thermal convection as much as possible to improve the separation property of hydrogen bubbles, and make the hydrogen bubbles toward the water storage part smaller to reduce the hydrogen bubbles. The rise can be suppressed, the hydrogen concentration in water can be increased, the frequency of contact between the circulating water and the counter electrode portion can be increased, and the efficiency of electrolysis can be improved.

(Third Embodiment of the present invention)
In the hydrogen generation system according to the above-described embodiment, the counter electrode portion 20 in which a plurality of plate-shaped electrode plates are arranged in a stack is used in order to generate bubbles. In addition, FIG. 15 as a third embodiment. As shown in the above, since the non-contact power transmission is performed in combination with the power feeding unit 40, the power receiving unit 57 in the energized state is used as either the anode portion or the cathode portion of the counter electrode portion 28. It can also be.

In this case, the power receiving portion 57 is arranged in the chamber portion 10 having a coil portion in which a metal portion having corrosion resistance is exposed, and is configured to serve as either an anode portion or a cathode portion in the counter electrode portion 28. As a result, when non-contact power transmission is performed between the power feeding unit 40 and the power receiving unit 57 and the other electrode forming the counter electrode unit 28 is also energized, between the power receiving unit 57 and the other electrode. The electrolysis of water occurs in the water, and bubbles are generated in the exposed metal portion of the power receiving unit 57 as the electricity is applied.

In this way, the metal portion of the power receiving portion 57 that also serves as one electrode of the counter electrode portion 28 advances the electrolysis of the surrounding water and generates gas on the metal surface, whereby the same electrode side is separately provided in addition to the power receiving portion 57. It is not necessary to provide the electrodes of the above, the structure can be simplified, and the heat generated by the power transmission in the power receiving unit 57 brings about the thermal convection of water, which is a kind of water flow generation that gives the water flow state in the vicinity of the power receiving unit. It also acts as a means, promotes the flow of water in the vicinity of the power receiving part 57 that forms the electrode, makes it easier for the metal part of the power receiving part 57 to come into contact with the water in the water storage part, and makes the electrolysis of water more efficient. It can be advanced.

1 Hydrogen generation system 10, 11, 12 Chamber part 20, 25 Counter electrode part 21, 26 Anode part 22, 27 Cathode part 21a, 22a Through hole 28 Opposite electrode part 30 Pump part 32 Heater 40 Power supply part 50 Power receiving part 51 Operation part 52, 57 Power receiving unit 60 Control circuit unit 65 Battery 70 Operation control unit 80 Support frame unit 90, 91, 92 Water storage unit 93 Equipment

Claims (1)

A gap portion is provided inside, which is arranged on the wall or bottom below the water surface position in the water storage portion where a predetermined amount of water or hot water is held, and communicates with the inner region of the water storage portion through the opening portion of the wall or bottom of the water storage portion. And a chamber part that allows water or hot water in the water storage part to flow through the gap part,
A counter electrode portion formed by alternately arranging one or a plurality of anode portions and cathode portions for electrolysis of water in a facing state and integrally arranged, and detachably arranged in the chamber portion.
A power supply unit for non-contact power transmission, which is arranged outside the chamber unit so as to be adjacent to the chamber unit, and a predetermined position in the chamber unit that faces the power supply unit, and at least the counter electrode. A power supply means including a power receiving unit for non-contact power transmission paired with the power supply unit, which is capable of supplying power to the unit.
With
In a hydrogen generation system in which electric power is supplied to the counter electrode portion from a predetermined power feeding means to generate at least hydrogen bubbles, and the hydrogen bubbles are introduced from the chamber portion into water or hot water in the water storage portion.
The power receiving portion has a coil portion in which a metal portion having corrosion resistance is exposed and is disposed in a chamber portion, and hydrogen generation is characterized by serving as either an anode portion or a cathode portion in the counter electrode portion. system.

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