JP6891537B2 - Fluid sterilizer - Google Patents

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a fluid sterilizer.

A fluid sterilizer that sterilizes a fluid by irradiating the flow path of a flow path member through which a fluid such as water or gas flows with ultraviolet rays emitted by a light emitting element of a light source is known. Some fluid sterilizers of this type have a substrate on which an LED (Light Emitting Diode) that emits ultraviolet rays is mounted as a light source.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-233646

By the way, when the fluid flowing through the flow path is irradiated with the ultraviolet rays emitted by the LED to sterilize the fluid, the output of the LED is increased and the irradiation efficiency of the ultraviolet rays to the fluid is increased in order to obtain a higher sterilizing effect. Is desirable. However, simply increasing the power supply to the LED or increasing the number of mounted LEDs will reduce the luminous efficiency of the LED, which has a temperature limit due to heat generation, due to the heat generated by the light emission. Is difficult.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a fluid sterilizer capable of suppressing a temperature rise of a light source and increasing the efficiency of irradiating a fluid flowing through a flow path member with ultraviolet rays.

The fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment has a first flow path for flowing the fluid in the first direction and a second direction for communicating the fluid with the first flow path and returning the fluid from the first direction. A flow path member having a second flow path for flowing into, and a flow path cross section of the first flow path and the second flow path in the first direction and the second direction. It is provided with a light source that is arranged to face the intersecting cross-sections of the flow paths and irradiates ultraviolet rays into the first flow path and the second flow path.

According to the present invention, it is possible to suppress the temperature rise of the light source and increase the efficiency of irradiating the fluid flowing through the flow path member with ultraviolet rays.

It is a schematic diagram which shows the whole fluid sterilizer which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the main part of the fluid sterilizer which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the main part of the fluid sterilizer which concerns on 1st Embodiment in the cross section different from FIG. It is sectional drawing which shows the direction which the fluid flows through the flow path member in the main part of the fluid sterilizer which concerns on 1st Embodiment. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the A direction in an I-I cross section orthogonal to the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the B direction, with a section II-II orthogonal to the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the C direction, a cross section of II-II orthogonal to the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member. It is sectional drawing which shows the main part of the modification of the fluid sterilizer which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the main part of the fluid sterilizer which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows the main part of the fluid sterilizer which concerns on 3rd Embodiment.

The fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment described below includes a flow path member and a light source. The flow path member has a first flow path for flowing the fluid in the first direction. The flow path member has a second flow path for flowing the fluid from the first direction back in the second direction. The second flow path communicates with the first flow path. The light source is arranged so as to face the cross section of the first flow path. The flow path cross section of the first flow path intersects in the first direction. The light source is arranged so as to face the cross section of the second flow path. The flow path cross section of the second flow path intersects in the second direction. The light source irradiates ultraviolet rays into the first flow path and the second flow path.

Further, the flow path member of the fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment described below has a folded portion. At the folded portion, the fluid folds back and flows from the first direction to the second direction.

Further, the folded portion of the fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment described below is provided at the end portion of the flow path member on the light source side so as to face the light source.

Further, the fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment described below further includes a connecting member. The connecting member is connected to the end of the flow path member and is provided with a light source. The connecting member has a third flow path communicating with the first flow path and a fourth flow path communicating with the second flow path. At least one of the third and fourth channels is formed around the light source.

Further, the flow path member of the fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment described below includes a first flow path pipe and a second flow path pipe. The first flow path tube has a first flow path. The second flow path tube has a second flow path. The first flow path pipe and the second flow path pipe are arranged concentrically in the flow path cross section.

In addition, a second flow path tube having ultraviolet light transmission is provided inside the first flow path tube of the fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment described below. The first flow path tube is provided with a reflective surface. The reflecting surface reflects the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source into the first flow path and the second flow path.

Hereinafter, the fluid sterilizer according to the embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments show an example and do not limit the invention.

(First Embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a schematic view showing the entire fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment in a cross section different from that of FIG. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member in the main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment.

(Configuration of fluid sterilizer)
As shown in FIG. 1, in the fluid sterilizer 1 of the first embodiment, a flow path member 13 through which a fluid irradiating ultraviolet rays (ultraviolet light) flows is connected to a water supply tank 6 for supplying the fluid, and ultraviolet rays are emitted. Is connected to a recovery tank 7 that recovers the irradiated fluid. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in the fluid sterilizer 1, the upstream side of the flow path member 13 is connected to the water supply tank 6 via the upstream side flow path member 8. The upstream side flow path member 8 is provided with a pump 11 that sends a fluid from the water supply tank 6 to the fluid sterilizer 1. Further, in the fluid sterilizer 1, the downstream side of the flow path member 13 is connected to the recovery tank 7 via the downstream side flow path member 9, similarly to the upstream side of the flow path member 13. The downstream flow path member 9 is provided with a flow rate adjusting mechanism 12 for adjusting the flow rate of the fluid sent from the fluid sterilizer 1 to the recovery tank 7.

The fluid sterilizer 1 is used, for example, in a drinking water supply device for sterilizing the water in the water supply tank 6. In the present embodiment, the fluid is applied to a liquid such as clean water, but may be applied to a gas.

As shown in FIG. 2, the fluid sterilizer 1 includes a flow path member 13 for flowing a fluid and a light source unit 15 for irradiating the inside of the flow path member 13 with ultraviolet rays. Further, the fluid sterilizer 1 includes a first connecting member 17 connected to one end of the flow path member 13 and a second connecting member 18 connected to the other end of the flow path member 13.

The flow path member 13 has a first flow path pipe 21 and a second flow path pipe 22. The first flow path pipe 21 has a first flow path 21a for flowing the fluid in the A direction returning from the first direction. The second flow path pipe 22 has a second flow path 22a for flowing the fluid in the B direction, which is the second direction opposite to the A direction. The second flow path pipe 22 is arranged inside the first flow path pipe 21 so that the pipe axis of the first flow path pipe 21 and the pipe axis of the second flow path pipe 22 are aligned with each other. It is arranged concentrically in the cross section of the flow path orthogonal to the A direction and the B direction in which the fluid flows.

In the present embodiment, the B direction returning from the A direction flows in the opposite direction to the A direction, but the direction is not limited to the opposite direction in which the A direction and the B direction are parallel to each other, and the flow path member 13 is substantially opposite. It refers to flowing in a direction, including a configuration in which the A direction and the B direction intersect at a predetermined inclination angle. Further, the fluid may flow so as to return from the A direction by spirally flowing in the B direction on the outer peripheral side of the first flow path 21a in which the fluid flows in the A direction.

On one end side of the flow path member 13, the fluid flows in the second flow path 22a of the second flow path tube 22 from the direction A in which the fluid flows in the first flow path 21a of the first flow path tube 21. A folded-back portion 20 is provided in which the fluid is folded back and flows in the B direction in which the fluid flows. That is, in the folded-back portion 20, one end of the second flow path 22a of the second flow path pipe 22 communicates with one end of the first flow path 21a of the first flow path pipe 21. In FIGS. 2 to 4, for convenience, a folded-back portion 20 having a gap between one end of the second flow path pipe 22 and the second connecting member 18 is provided, and the other end of the second flow path pipe 22 is provided. Is cantilevered and supported by the first connecting member 17, but is not limited to this configuration. For example, one end of the second communication pipe 22 is supported by the second connecting member 18, and one end side of the second communication pipe 22 is connected to the first communication passage 21a of the first communication pipe 21. By forming a plurality of communication ports (not shown) that communicate with each other, the folded-back portion 20 may be provided by the plurality of communication ports. According to this configuration, both ends of the second flow path pipe 22 are supported by the first connecting member 17 and the second connecting member 18, so that the stability of the supported state of the second flow path pipe 22 is enhanced. Be done.

Further, the folded-back portion 20 is not limited to the configuration provided in the flow path member 13, and for example, another flow path member formed inside the second connecting member 18 or having a folded-back portion is connected to the second. It may be provided on the outside of the member 18.

The first flow path tube 21 and the second flow path tube 22 of the flow path member 13 are preferably formed of a material having high ultraviolet reflectance and suppressed deterioration due to ultraviolet rays. In the present embodiment, a transparent quartz tube is used as the first flow path tube 21 and the second flow path tube 22, and has ultraviolet transmission. A reflective film 13a having a high ultraviolet reflectance is formed on the entire outer peripheral surface of the first flow path tube 21. The reflective film 13a is an example of a reflective surface that reflects ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source unit 15 into the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a of the flow path member 13, for example, a silica film is used. Has been done.

The reflective film 13a formed on the first flow path tube 21 is not limited to the silica film, but may be an aluminum-deposited film. Further, the flow path member 13 is not limited to a transparent quartz tube, and may be a fluororesin such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTEF, a polymer of tetrafluoroethylene) having a high reflectance. Further, the reflective film 13a may be formed on the inner peripheral surface of the first flow path tube 21 instead of being formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first flow path tube 21.

The light source unit 15 is provided inside the first connecting member 17, and is provided in the first flow path 21a of the first flow path tube 21 and in the second flow path 22a of the second flow path tube 22. It has a light source 16 that irradiates ultraviolet rays to. The light source unit 15 includes a light source 16 and an ultraviolet transmitting member 19 that protects the light source 16. The light source 16 faces the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a on one end side of the flow path member 13 so as to face a flow path cross section (hereinafter, referred to as a flow path cross section) orthogonal to the direction in which the fluid flows. Is arranged.

The light source 16 is an optical module in which an LED (Light Emitting Diode) 24 (hereinafter, referred to as LED 24), which is a light emitting element that emits ultraviolet rays, is mounted on a substrate 25. The substrate 25 is formed using a metal material as a base material. Although not shown, a desired conductive pattern (wiring pattern) is formed on the substrate 25 via an insulating layer, and the LED 24 is provided on the conductive pattern. The base material of the substrate 25 is not limited to a metal material, and ceramics such as alumina may be used. Further, the light emitting element included in the light source 16 is not limited to the LED 24, and other semiconductor elements such as LD (Laser diode) may be used.

The light source 16 is supplied with electric power from a power source (not shown) to cause the LED 24 to emit light. In the light source 16, the light emitting surface of the LED 24 faces the cross section of the first flow path 21a and the cross section of the second flow path 22a. For example, the main surface of the substrate 25 of the light source 16 is the first. It is arranged so as to be substantially perpendicular to the flow direction of the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a. Here, the "light emitting surface of the LED 24" does not simply indicate only the light emitting region of the LED 24, but refers to the entire main surface of the substrate 25 on which the LED 24 is arranged. Further, the direction in which the light emitting surface of the LED 24 faces the cross section of the first flow path 21a and the cross section of the second flow path 22a is not limited to the directions parallel to each other. Absent. For example, the angle (acute angle) formed by the light emitting surface of the LED 24 and the cross section of the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a is allowed up to about ± 10 °.

Further, the LED 24 preferably has a peak wavelength in the vicinity of a wavelength of 275 nm, which has a relatively high bactericidal action, but it may be a wavelength band that exerts a bactericidal action, and does not limit the wavelength of ultraviolet rays.

The ultraviolet transmissive member 19 is formed in a flat plate shape by a material having ultraviolet transmissivity, and is arranged substantially parallel to the light source 16, that is, the main surface of the substrate 25. The ultraviolet ray transmitting member 19 transmits the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16 and flows in the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a, respectively, and the flow path 17a described later included in the first connecting member 17. Ultraviolet rays are applied to the fluid flowing through -1, 17b-1 and 17b-2.

The ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source 16 pass through the ultraviolet transmitting member 19, and irradiate the fluids flowing in the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a as direct light from the light source 16. Further, the ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source 16 are reflected by the reflective film 13a in the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a as shown by the arrows shown in FIG. 2, so that the first flow is generated. Water flowing in the path 21a and the second flow path 22a is indirectly irradiated as reflected light from the reflective film 13a.

The end of the first flow path pipe 21 and the end of the second flow path pipe 22 are supported by the first connection member 17 via an O-ring (not shown), respectively. The end of the first flow path pipe 21 is supported by the second connecting member 18 via an O-ring.

Inside the first connecting member 17, as shown in FIG. 3, the flow paths 17c-3, 17b-3, 17a-3, as a third flow path communicating with one end of the first flow path 21a, 17a-2 are formed in order from the upstream side flow path member 8 toward the first flow path 21a. Further, a light source 16 is provided inside the first connecting member 17, and as shown in FIG. 2, a flow path 17a- as a fourth flow path communicating with one end of the second flow path 22a. 1, 17b-1, 17b-2, 17c-1, 17c-2 are formed along the periphery of the light source 16.

The first connecting member 17 is configured such that the upstream flange 17a, the intermediate flange 17b, and the downstream flange 17c are integrally fastened via a fastening member (not shown). The upstream side flange 17a is arranged on the flow path member 13 side, and the downstream side flange 17c is arranged on the side opposite to the flow path member 13 with the light source portion 15 interposed therebetween. The intermediate flange 17b is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the upstream flange 17a and the downstream flange 17c.

The upstream flange 17a supports the end of the first flow path pipe 21 and the end of the second flow path pipe 22, respectively. The upstream flange 17a, the intermediate flange 17b, and the downstream flange 17c are formed in a cylindrical shape by a material having a thermal conductivity equal to or higher than a predetermined value, for example, stainless steel having excellent corrosiveness. The upstream flange 17a, the intermediate flange 17b, and the downstream flange 17c are not limited to stainless steel, but may be formed of a composite material of aluminum having a high thermal conductivity, and a high thermal conductive resin mixed with ceramics and a filler. It may be formed of a material or the like.

The upstream flange 17a of the first connecting member 17 has a plurality of flow paths 17a-2 and flow paths 17a-3 as a third flow path. Further, the upstream flange 17a has a flow path 17a-1 as a fourth flow path. The flow path 17a-1 is located near the center of the upstream flange 17a and communicates with one end of the second flow path 22a of the second flow path pipe 22.

The intermediate flange 17b has a flow path 17b-1 and a flow path 17b-2 as a fourth flow path. The flow path 17b-1 is located near the center of the intermediate flange 17b and communicates with the flow path 17a-1 of the upstream flange 17a. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the flow path 17b-2 of the intermediate flange 17b communicates with the flow path 17b-1 and extends from the center of the intermediate flange 17b to the outer peripheral side. Therefore, the flow path 17b-1 and the flow path 17b-2 of the intermediate flange 17b are communicated with the second flow path 22a of the second flow path pipe 22 via the flow path 17a-1 of the upstream flange 17a. ing.

The downstream flange 17c is a concave light source accommodating portion located in a region surrounded by a flow path 17c-1, a flow path 17c-2, a flow path 17c-1 and a flow path 17c-2 as a fourth flow path. It has 17c-4 and. Further, the downstream flange 17c has a flow path 17c-3 as a third flow path, and is communicated with the flow path 17b-3 of the intermediate flange 17b. The light source unit 17 is housed in the light source accommodating portion 17c-4. For example, the opening of the light source accommodating portion 17c-4 is covered with a flat ultraviolet light transmitting member 19 included in the light source unit 15 described later. .. The downstream flange 17c is connected to the intermediate flange 17b in a state where the opening of the light source accommodating portion 17c-4 is covered with the ultraviolet transmitting member 19, and connects the flow path 17c-1 and the flow path 17b-2. To do.

Further, the downstream side flange 17c is connected to the upstream side flow path member 8 and the downstream side flow path member 9. In this way, the first connecting member 17 allows, for example, the fluid flowing in from the second flow path 22a of the second flow path tube 22 to flow into the flow path near the center of the ultraviolet light transmitting member 19, 17a-1, 17b-. 1. The flow path 17b-2 toward the outer periphery of the light source accommodating portion 17c-4, the flow path 17c-1 passing near the outer periphery of the light source accommodating portion 17c-4, and the light source accommodating portion on the opposite surface side of the light emitting surface of the light source 16. It flows out to the downstream side flow path member 9 via the flow path 17c-2 extending from the outer peripheral side of 17c-4 to the vicinity of the center.

(Fluid flow in the main part of the fluid sterilizer)
As shown in FIG. 3, from the flow path of the upstream side flow path member 8, the flow path 17c-3, the flow path 17b-3, the flow path 17a-3, and the flow path 17a-2 in the first connecting member 17 It passes through in order and flows into the first flow path 21a of the first flow path pipe 21. The fluid flowing into the first flow path 21a of the first flow path pipe 21 flows in the first flow path 21a in the A direction and passes through the folded-back portion 20 as shown by the arrows in FIGS. 3 and 4. Then, it flows into the second flow path 22a of the second flow path pipe 22. The fluid that has flowed into the second flow path 22a flows in the second flow path 22a in the B direction, and flows into the first connecting member 17 again. The fluid flowing into the first connecting member 17 passes through the flow path 17b-1, the flow path 17b-2, the flow path 17c-1, and the flow path 17c-2 to the flow path of the downstream flow path member 9. It is leaked.

As described above, the fluid flowing in the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a of the flow path member 13 is sterilized by being irradiated with the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16. Further, the fluid flowing into the first connecting member 17 passes near the light source 16 when flowing along the flow path 17a-1, the flow path 17b-2, and the flow path 17b-2, so that ultraviolet rays are efficient. Is irradiated and sterilized. That is, in the fluid sterilizer 1, the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16 are irradiated in the first flow path 21a and in the second flow path 22a with respect to the fluid flowing through the flow path member 13. Therefore, even if only the light source unit 15 is used, it is possible to secure a long irradiation time of ultraviolet rays for the fluid flowing through the flow path member 13. Therefore, the sterilizing effect of the fluid is enhanced, and the fluid sterilizing device 1 is compactly configured.

Further, when the fluid flowing into the first connecting member 17 passes through the paths of the flow path 17b-1, the flow path 17b-2, the flow path 17c-1, and the flow path 17c-2, the light source accommodating portion 17c- While taking away the heat generated by the light source 16 housed in 4, it flows out to the downstream flow path member 9. That is, the fluid that is sterilized by being irradiated with the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16 in the flow path member 13 flows from the first flow path 21a to the second flow path 22a and passes through the second flow path 22a. It flows into the first connecting member 17 toward the light emitting surface side of the light source 16. In the first connecting member 17, the fluid passes through a plurality of paths of the flow path 17a-1, the flow path 17b-1, the flow path 17b-2, the flow path 17c-1, and the flow path 17c-2, and emits light. It flows out to the opposite side of the surface. The plurality of paths 17b-2, 17c-1, and 17c-2 in the first connecting member 17 extend along the periphery of the light source 16 and are opposite to the light emitting surface side of the light source 16. Fluid passes through to the surface side.

As a result, the light source 16 can take a plurality of paths of the flow path 17a-1, the flow path 17b-1, the flow path 17b-2, the flow path 17c-1, and the flow path 17c-2 without using other cooling means. It is indirectly but efficiently cooled using the passing fluid. Further, a fluid that passes through a plurality of paths of the flow path 17a-1, the flow path 17b-1, the flow path 17b-2, the flow path 17c-1, and the flow path 17c-2 is used without using other cooling means. By cooling the light source 16, for example, another cooling member such as a heat radiation fin becomes unnecessary. As a result, the fluid sterilizer 1 can be miniaturized.

A heat conductive member having a thermal conductivity equal to or higher than a predetermined value, such as aluminum or stainless steel, may be provided between the light source 16 housed in the light source accommodating portion 17c-4 and the light source accommodating portion 17c-4. preferable. The heat generated by the light source 16 is transferred to the fluid flowing in the first connecting member 17 via the heat conductive member, and the light source 16 can be cooled more efficiently by the fluid.

Further, the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member 13 of the fluid sterilizer 1 is not limited to the direction in which the fluid flows from the A direction to the B direction shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, but is in the direction opposite to the direction shown in FIG. May be. That is, although not shown, the second flow path 22a may be connected to the upstream side flow path member 8 and the first flow path 21a may be connected to the downstream side flow path member 9. In the case of this configuration, the fluid flowing from the upstream flow path member 8 via the flow path 17c-2, the flow path 17c-1, the flow path 17b-2, the flow path 17b-1, and the flow path 17a-1 in this order. Flows into the second flow path 22a. The fluid that has flowed into the second flow path 22a flows into the first flow path 21a via the folded-back portion 20, flows through the first flow path 21a, and reaches the flow path of the downstream flow path member 9. It is leaked. The fact that the flow direction of the fluid is not limited in this way is the same in the modified examples, the second and third embodiments, which will be described later.

Further, in FIGS. 2 and 3, in the flow path member 13, the directions A and B in which the fluid flows through the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a are in the directions A and B with respect to the light emitting surface of the light source 16 of the light source unit 15. Arranged approximately vertically, but not limited to vertical. Even if the direction in which the fluid flows through the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a forms a predetermined angle with respect to the light emitting surface of the light source 16, or the angle can be arbitrarily adjusted. Good.

(I-I cross section (A direction) of the main part of the fluid sterilizer)
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the A direction in an I-I cross section orthogonal to the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member 13.

In FIGS. 2 to 4, when the I-I cross section is viewed from the direction A in the drawing, the upstream flange 17a is arranged as shown in FIG. When the I-I cross section in FIGS. 2 to 4 is viewed from the A direction in the drawing, as shown in FIG. 5, the upstream flange 17a has a circular shape and is communicated with the second flow path 22a. It has a circular flow path 17a-1, a plurality of flow paths 17a-2 communicating with the first flow path 21a, and an annular flow path 17a-3 communicating with the plurality of flow paths 17a-2. .. The flow path 17a-1 is provided near the center of the upstream flange 17a.

(II-II cross section (B direction) of the main part of the fluid sterilizer)
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the fluid sterilizer 1 according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the B direction in the II-II cross section orthogonal to the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member 13.

When the cross section of II-II is viewed from the B direction in the drawings in FIGS. 2 to 4, the intermediate flange 17b and the ultraviolet transmitting member 19 are arranged as shown in FIG. When the II-II cross section in FIGS. 2 to 4 is viewed from the B direction in the drawing, as shown in FIG. 6, the intermediate flange 17b has a circular shape and is a cross-sectional circle communicating with the second flow path 22a. It has a shaped flow path 17b-1 and a plurality of flow paths 17b-2 extending radially from the flow path 17b-1 toward the outer peripheral side of the intermediate flange 17b. The flow path 17b-1 is provided near the center of the intermediate flange 17b, and communicates with the second flow path 22a via the flow path 17a-1 of the upstream flange 17a. Further, inside the first connecting member 17, the ultraviolet transmitting member 19 is arranged adjacent to the flow path 17b-1 and the flow path 17b-2.

(II-II cross section (C direction) of the main part of the fluid sterilizer)
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the fluid sterilizer 1 according to the first embodiment, as viewed from the C direction in a cross section of II-II orthogonal to the direction in which the fluid flows through the flow path member 13.

When the cross section of II-II is viewed from the C direction in the drawings in FIGS. 2 to 4, the downstream flange 17c and the light source 16 are arranged as shown in FIG. 7. When the II-II cross section in FIGS. 2 to 4 is viewed from the C direction, as shown in FIG. 6, the downstream flange 17c has a circular shape, and a concave light source accommodating portion 17c-4 is provided near the center thereof. Have. The light source accommodating portion 17c-4 accommodates the light source 16 so that the direction of irradiation of ultraviolet rays from the LED 24 is directed toward the second flow path 22a.

Further, a plurality of flow paths 17c-1 are provided around the light source accommodating portion 17c-4 at intervals along a concentric circle centered on the LED 24. The plurality of flow paths 17c-1 are formed in the downstream flange 17c by through holes penetrating from the light emitting surface side to the opposite surface side of the light source 16 in the periphery surrounding the light source 16.

As shown in FIG. 3, the first connecting member 17 has a flow path 17a-3, a flow path 17b-3, and a flow path 17c by connecting the upstream side flange 17a, the intermediate flange 17b, and the downstream side flange 17c. -3 is connected. Further, the position of the first connecting member 17 corresponds to the radially extending tip portion of each flow path 17b-2 shown in FIG. 6 by connecting the intermediate flange 17b and the downstream flange 17c. Each flow path 17c-1 shown in the above is connected.

The number of LEDs 24 mounted on the substrate 25 and the number of flow paths 17c-1 are not limited to the number shown in FIG. 7, and may be changed as necessary.

Further, in the first connecting member 17 of the present embodiment, the flow path 17a-1 and the flow path so that the fluid flowing from the second flow path 22a into the first connecting member 17 flows around the light source 16. Although 17b-1, the flow path 17b-2, the flow path 17c-1, and the flow path 17c-2 are formed, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. The first connecting member 17 has a flow path such that the fluid flowing from the upstream side flow path member 8 and flowing through the first connecting member 17 to the first flow path 21a flows around the light source 16. It may be formed, and both the fluid flowing from the first connecting member 17 to the first flow path 21a and the fluid flowing from the second flow path 22a into the first connecting member 17 are around the light source 16. A flow path may be formed so as to flow through.

Further, in the embodiment, the length direction of the first flow path 21a and the length direction of the second flow path 22a are arranged in parallel, but a spiral shape is formed on the outer peripheral side of the second flow path 22a. The first flow path 21a may be arranged so as to rotate in the longitudinal direction of the second flow path 22a. According to this configuration, by forming the first flow path 21a in a spiral shape, the flow path length of the first flow path 21a is extended, and the fluid flowing in the first flow path 21a is irradiated with ultraviolet rays. It is possible to secure a long time and improve the irradiation efficiency.

As described above, in the fluid sterilizer 1 of the first embodiment, the first flow path 21a for flowing the fluid in the A direction and the second flow path 22a for flowing the fluid in the B direction returning from the A direction. A flow path member 13 having the above, and a light source 16 for irradiating the inside of the first flow path 21a and the inside of the second flow path 22a with ultraviolet rays are provided. As a result, ultraviolet rays can be irradiated into the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a of the flow path member 13 only by the light source 16, so that the temperature rise of the light source 16 can be suppressed and the flow path member can be suppressed. The efficiency of irradiating the fluid flowing through the 13 with ultraviolet rays can be increased.

Further, the first connecting member 17 in the first embodiment includes a flow path 17a-1, a flow path 17b-1, a flow path 17b-2, a flow path 17c-1, and a flow path 17c- flowing around the light source 16. By having 2, the light source 16 is indirectly cooled by the fluid, so that the temperature rise of the light source 16 can be further suppressed. As a result, it becomes possible to further increase the efficiency of irradiating the fluid with ultraviolet rays.

Further, since the flow path member 13 has the folded-back portion 20, the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a can be compactly configured in the flow path member 13. Further, the flow path member 13 has the first flow path pipe 21 and the second flow path pipe 22 arranged concentrically, so that the flow path member 13 is compactly configured and the fluid sterilizer 1 is formed. It can be miniaturized. Further, the first flow path tube 21 is provided with a reflective film 13a that reflects the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16 into the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a. It is possible to increase the efficiency of irradiating the flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a with ultraviolet rays.

Hereinafter, a modified example of the first embodiment and a fluid sterilizer of another embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the modified example and other embodiments, the same components as those in the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

(Modified example of the first embodiment)
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of a modified example of the fluid sterilizer according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, the first connecting member 17A included in the fluid sterilizer of the modified example has a second flow path in which the reflecting member 26 that reflects the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16 has ultraviolet rays transmission. It differs from the above-mentioned first connecting member 17 in that it is arranged at the downstream end of the pipe 22.

The reflecting member 26 is formed in a cylindrical shape and has a first reflecting surface 26a and a second reflecting surface 26b. The first reflecting surface 26a is formed along the flow path 17b-2 of the first connecting member 17A and faces the light emitting surface of the light source 16. The second reflecting surface 26b is formed along the pipe axis direction (A, B direction) of the second flow path pipe 22. According to the modification, the ultraviolet rays near the light emitting surface of the light source 16 and the ultraviolet rays transmitting member 19 are efficiently reflected, and the ultraviolet rays are efficiently irradiated into the second flow path 22a and the first flow path 21a. It becomes possible to do.

Although not shown, a reflective member may be provided on the outer peripheral side of the flow path member 13 instead of the reflective film 13a being provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first flow path tube 21. In this case, the reflective member is formed in a tubular shape having a reflective surface on the inner peripheral surface, and both ends are fixed to the first connecting member 17 and the second connecting member 18. Further, in order to reinforce the supporting state of the first connecting member 17 and the second connecting member 18 that support the flow path member 13, the connecting member that connects the first connecting member 17 and the second connecting member 18 is connected. May be provided. In this case, both ends of the connecting member are fixed to the first connecting member 17 and the second connecting member 18 via the fastening member. Further, the first connecting member 17 and the second connecting member 18 may be provided with a cover member that covers the outer peripheral side of the flow path member 13 and protects the flow path member 13, if necessary.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the second embodiment. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the folded-back portion 20 is provided in the vicinity of the light source portion 15. As shown in FIG. 9, the flow path member 13 in the fluid sterilizer 2 of the second embodiment is provided between the first connecting member 27 and the second connecting member 28.

The end of the first flow path pipe 21 is supported by the first connecting member 27. A concave light source accommodating portion 27a is provided on the end surface of the first connecting member 27 at a position facing the end portion of the second flow path tube 22 of the flow path member 13. The light source portion 15 is housed in the light source accommodating portion 27a, and the opening of the light source accommodating portion 27a is closed by the ultraviolet transmitting member 19. At the end of the flow path member 13 on the light source 16 side, the second flow path of the second flow path tube 22 from the B direction in which the fluid flows in the first flow path 21a of the first flow path tube 21. A folded-back portion 20 in which the fluid folds back and flows in the direction A in which the fluid flows in 22a is provided so as to face the light source 16.

An upstream side flow path member 8 and a downstream side flow path member 9 are connected to the second connection member 28. The second connecting member 28 supports the end of the first flow path pipe 21 and the end of the second flow path pipe 22. The second connecting member 28 has a flow path 28a, a flow path 28b, and a plurality of flow paths 28c as a third flow path. The flow path 28a communicates with the upstream flow path member 8. The flow path 28b is formed in an annular shape along the circumferential direction of the second connecting member 28, and is communicated with the flow path 28a and the flow path 28c. The plurality of flow paths 28c are provided at intervals along the circumferential direction of the first flow path pipe 21, and are communicated with the first flow path 21a. Further, the second connecting member 28 has a flow path 28d as a fourth flow path. The flow path 28d is provided so as to penetrate near the center of the second connecting member 28, and is communicated with the second flow path 22a and the downstream side flow path member 9.

In the fluid sterilizer 2 configured as described above, the fluid flowing in from the upstream side flow path member 8 passes through the flow path 28a, the flow path 28b, and the flow path 28c of the second connection member 28 in this order, and is the first. Flows in the first flow path 21a of the flow path tube 21 along the B direction. The fluid flowing in the first flow path 21a flows into the second flow path 22a of the second flow path pipe 22 through the folded-back portion 20, and flows in the second flow path 22a in the A direction. Flow. The fluid flowing in the second flow path 22a flows out to the downstream flow path member 9 through the flow path 28d of the second connecting member 28.

According to the second embodiment, the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16 irradiate the fluids flowing in the first flow path 21a and the second flow path 22a, respectively, and pass through the folded-back portion 20 in the vicinity of the light source portion 15. The fluid can be efficiently irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the light source 16. Therefore, the second embodiment can increase the efficiency of irradiating the fluid with ultraviolet rays, as in the first embodiment. Further, in the second embodiment, the fluid flowing through the folded-back portion 20 flows along the end surface of the first connecting member 27, so that the light source 16 provided in the first connecting member 27 is indirectly but efficiently used. Can be cooled.

(Third Embodiment)
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a main part of the fluid sterilizer according to the third embodiment. The third embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the flow path member further has a third flow path. As shown in FIG. 10, the flow path member 33 in the fluid sterilizer 3 of the third embodiment is provided between the first connecting member 37 and the second connecting member 38.

The flow path member 33 has a first flow path pipe 21, a second flow path pipe 22, and a third flow path pipe 23. The third flow path pipe 23 has a third flow path 23a for flowing the fluid in the second flow path 22a of the second flow path pipe 22 in the direction A opposite to the direction B in which the fluid flows. The third flow path pipe 23 has, inside the second flow path pipe 22, the pipe axis of the first flow path pipe 21, the pipe shaft of the second flow path pipe 22, and the third flow path pipe 23. Are arranged so as to coincide with each other, and are arranged concentrically in the cross section of the flow path orthogonal to the A direction and the B direction in which the fluid flows. Further, the flow path member 33 includes a folded-back portion 20a in which the fluid folds back from the direction A in which the fluid flows in the first flow path 21a to the direction B in which the fluid flows in the second flow path 22a, and a second. A folded portion 20b is provided in which the fluid folds back from the direction B in which the fluid flows in the flow path 22a to the direction A in which the fluid flows in the third flow path 23a. The folded-back portion 20b is provided at the end of the flow path member 33 on the light source 16 side so as to face the light source 16.

An upstream flow path member 8 is connected to the first connecting member 37. The end of the first flow path pipe 21 and the end of the second flow path pipe 22 are supported by the first connecting member 37. The first connecting member 37 has a plurality of flow paths 37a and a plurality of flow paths 37b. Further, on the end surface of the first connecting member 37, a concave light source accommodating portion 37c is provided at a position facing the end portion of the third flow path tube 23. The light source portion 15 is housed in the light source accommodating portion 37c, and the opening of the light source accommodating portion 37c is closed by the ultraviolet transmitting member 19. The plurality of flow paths 37a are formed radially from the center of the first connecting member 37 toward the outer periphery, and communicate with the upstream side flow path member 8. The plurality of flow paths 37b are provided at intervals along the circumferential direction of the first flow path pipe 21. The plurality of flow paths 37b communicate with the corresponding flow paths 37a, and communicate with the first flow path 21a of the first flow path pipe 21. Further, the plurality of flow paths 37a and the plurality of flow paths 37b are formed around the light source unit 15.

The downstream flow path member 9 is connected to the second connecting member 38. The second connecting member 38 supports the end of the first flow path pipe 21 and the end of the third flow path pipe 23. Further, the second connecting member 38 has a flow path 38a. The flow path 38a is provided so as to penetrate near the center of the second connecting member 38, and is communicated with the third flow path 23a and the downstream side flow path member 9.

In the fluid sterilizer 3 configured as described above, the fluid flowing in from the upstream side flow path member 8 passes through the flow path 37a and the flow path 37b of the first connection member 37 in this order, and the first flow path tube. It flows in the first flow path 21a of 21 along the A direction. The fluid flowing in the first flow path 21a flows into the second flow path 22a of the second flow path pipe 22 through the folded-back portion 20a, and flows in the second flow path 22a in the B direction. Flow. The fluid flowing in the second flow path 22a flows into the third flow path 23a of the third flow path pipe 23 through the folded-back portion 20b, and flows in the third flow path 23a in the A direction. Flow. The fluid flowing in the third flow path 23a flows out to the downstream flow path member 9 through the flow path 38a of the second connecting member 38.

According to the third embodiment, the ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source 16 irradiate the fluids flowing in the first flow path 21a, the second flow path 22a, and the third flow path 23a, respectively, and the light source unit. The fluid passing through the folded portion 20b in the vicinity of 15 can be efficiently irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the light source 16. In the third embodiment, the length of the flow path through which the fluid flows through the flow path member 33 is longer than in the first and second embodiments, so that the efficiency of irradiating the fluid with ultraviolet rays can be further improved. Further, in the third embodiment, the fluid flows through the flow path 37a and the flow path 37b of the first connecting member 37, and the fluid flowing through the folded-back portion 20b flows along the end surface of the first connecting member 37. Therefore, the light source 16 provided in the first connecting member 37 can be cooled efficiently, though indirectly.

Although embodiments of the present invention have been described, the embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. The embodiment can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. The embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the present invention, as well as in the scope of the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

1 Fluid sterilizer 13 Flow path member 15 Light source unit 16 Light source 17 First connection member 17a Upstream side flange 17b Intermediate flange 17c Downstream side flange 17a-2, 17a-3, 17b-3, 17c-3 Flow path (third) Flow path)
17a-1, 17b-1, 17b-2, 17c-1, 17c-2 flow path (fourth flow path)
18 Second connection member 20 Folded part 21 First flow path pipe 21a First flow path 22 Second flow path pipe 22a Second flow path 24 LED
Direction A (first direction)
B direction (second direction)

Claims (6)

A first flow path for flowing a fluid in a first direction and a second flow path for flowing the fluid in a second direction in which the fluid communicates with the first flow path and returns from the first direction. With a flow path member having
The first flow path is arranged so as to face the flow path cross section of the first flow path and the second flow path that intersects the first direction and the second direction. With a light source that irradiates ultraviolet rays into the road and the second flow path;
Comprising a; is connected to the end of the flow path member, wherein the light source and the connecting member provided therein
A fluid sterilizer in which a flow path connected to at least one of the first flow path and the second flow path is formed around the light source inside the connection member. The flow path member has a folded portion in which the fluid folds back and flows from the first direction to the second direction.
The fluid sterilizer according to claim 1. The folded portion is provided at an end portion of the flow path member on the light source side so as to face the light source.
The fluid sterilizer according to claim 2. The connecting member includes a third flow path that communicates with the end of the first flow path on the light source side, and a fourth flow path that communicates with the end of the second flow path on the light source side. the a, at least one flow path of the fourth flow path and the third flow channel is formed around the light source,
The fluid sterilizer according to claim 1 or 2. The flow path member includes a first flow path tube having the first flow path and a second flow path tube having the second flow path.
The first flow path pipe and the second flow path pipe are arranged concentrically in the flow path cross section.
The fluid sterilizer according to any one of claims 1 to 4. Inside the first flow path tube, the second flow path tube having ultraviolet light transmission is provided.
The first flow path tube is provided with a reflecting surface that reflects ultraviolet rays emitted by the light source into the first flow path and the second flow path.
The fluid sterilizer according to claim 5.

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