JP7375100B1 - air purifier - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an air purifying device that can purify air while reducing pressure loss in a filter. [Solution] A photocatalytic filter carrying a photocatalyst, which extends from upstream to downstream of the airflow and has an upstream end and a downstream end; A casing in which a photocatalytic filter is housed, which has an ultraviolet light source that emits an ultraviolet light source and a wall that can guide air from upstream to downstream; a housing having a gap in which air can flow, and a connection holding mechanism that connects an upstream end to a wall of the housing and prevents air from flowing into the gap from upstream of the upstream end. Be prepared. [Selection diagram] Figure 8

Description

The present invention relates to an air cleaning device that cleans air.

2. Description of the Related Art As a technique for purifying air, a technique using a photocatalytic filter having a sterilizing and deodorizing function is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP2013-180178

In the technique described above, the photocatalytic filter is arranged perpendicularly to the airflow. For this reason, a large pressure loss occurs due to the filter, resulting in a decrease in air volume and wind speed, and a tendency to generate noise.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points. The purpose is to provide a device and structure for purifying air while reducing pressure loss due to the filter.

The features of the air purifying device according to the present invention are as follows:
Two photocatalyst filters carrying a photocatalyst, extending from upstream to downstream of the airflow, having an upstream end and a downstream end, and disposed apart from each other ;
an ultraviolet light source that emits ultraviolet light toward the photocatalyst filter;
A casing in which the photocatalytic filter is housed and has a wall that can guide air from upstream to downstream, and a first gap formed between the two photocatalytic filters and through which air can flow. and a second gap portion in which air can flow between the wall portion facing the photocatalyst filter and the photocatalyst filter;
a connection holding mechanism that connects the upstream end to a wall of the casing and prevents air from flowing into the first gap and the second gap from upstream of the upstream end; Equipped with
A first flow path is formed by air flowing through the first gap without passing through the photocatalyst filter,
A second flow path is formed by air passing through the photocatalyst filter from the first gap and flowing through the second gap.

Air can be purified while reducing pressure loss due to the filter.

FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an example in which a right side photocatalyst filter 44R and a left side photocatalyst filter 44L are directly connected to the housing part 11. FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an example in which a right side photocatalyst filter 44R and a left side photocatalyst filter 44L are indirectly connected to the housing part 11. It is a conceptual diagram showing arrangement of right side photocatalyst filter 44R and left side photocatalyst filter 44L. 1 is a perspective view showing the entire air cleaning device 10. FIG. It is a perspective view showing the whole air cleaning unit 300. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of a photocatalyst filter 344, a catalyst activation light source 350, and an inactivation light source 360. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the overall flow of air flowing through the air cleaning device 10. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing air flow in a purification zone 140. FIG. It is a graph showing the relationship between the wind speed of the fan 162 (horizontal axis), the noise value caused by the fan 162 (left vertical axis), and the temperature of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 (right vertical axis).

<<<<Overview of this embodiment>>>>
Embodiments will be described below based on the drawings.

<<<Direction etc.>>>
<Upstream direction>
The upstream direction is the direction toward the source of the fluid, such as air. For example, an upstream direction is a direction against the flow of a fluid such as air.

<Downstream direction>
The downstream direction is a direction opposite to the upstream direction, and is a direction toward a supply destination of fluid such as air. For example, the downstream direction is a direction along which fluid such as air flows.

<Upstream/downstream direction>
The upstream and downstream directions are directions along the upstream and downstream directions. The direction does not matter, as long as it is along the upstream direction and the downstream direction. The upstream direction, downstream direction, and upstream/downstream direction are directions based on the flow of fluid such as air current, and may be the left-right direction, the up-down direction, the horizontal direction, the vertical direction, or any other direction.

<Right direction, right side, right direction, etc.>
This refers to the direction or side to the right based on the direction from upstream to downstream.

<Left direction, left side, left direction, etc.>
This refers to the direction or side to the left based on the direction from upstream to downstream.

<Left and right direction, etc.>
The left-right direction is a direction along the right direction and the left direction. The direction does not matter, as long as it is along the right direction and the left direction.

<Upwards, upwards, upwards, etc.>
The upward direction is the opposite direction to the downward direction described later, and is the opposite direction to the direction of gravity.

<Downward, below, downward, etc.>
The downward direction is the direction of gravity. That is, the downward direction is the direction indicated by the string by which the object is suspended.

<Vertical direction>
The vertical direction is a direction along the upward and downward directions. The direction does not matter, as long as it is along the upward and downward directions.

<<<Concept of this embodiment>>>
<<First aspect>>
According to the first aspect,
A photocatalyst filter carrying a photocatalyst, which extends from upstream to downstream of the airflow, and has an upstream end (for example, an upstream end 370R or an upstream end 370L, which will be described later) and a downstream end. (For example, a photocatalyst filter 344 (a right side photocatalyst filter 344R, a left side photocatalyst filter 344L), etc., which will be described later), and
An ultraviolet light source that emits ultraviolet light toward the photocatalyst filter (for example, a catalyst activation light source 350 (a right-side catalyst activation light source 350R or a left-side catalyst activation light source 350L) described later) and an inactivation light source 360 (a right-side inactivation light source) 360R, left side inactivation light source 360L), etc.)
A casing in which the photocatalytic filter is housed and has a wall that can guide air from upstream to downstream, and that allows air to flow between the wall that faces the photocatalytic filter and the photocatalytic filter. A casing (for example, a casing 100 described below) having a gap portion,
The upstream end is connected to the wall of the casing, and a connection/holding mechanism (for example, a closing plate 122 or a filter to be described later) prevents air from flowing into the gap from upstream of the upstream end. (a mechanism having members necessary for connecting a photocatalyst filter to a wall of a housing such as a guide rail 320 and a filter frame 342).

The air purifying device according to the first aspect includes a photocatalyst filter, an ultraviolet light source, a housing, and a connection holding mechanism.

The photocatalyst filter supports a photocatalyst. The photocatalyst filter is arranged to extend from upstream to downstream of the airflow. The photocatalyst filter has an upstream end and a downstream end.

The ultraviolet light source emits ultraviolet light toward the photocatalyst filter. The ultraviolet light source activates the photocatalyst of the photocatalyst filter by irradiating it with ultraviolet light, and inactivates bacteria and viruses.

The housing has a wall. The wall guides the flowing air from upstream to downstream. The housing houses the photocatalyst filter. The photocatalyst filter faces the wall. The housing has a gap between the wall and the photocatalyst filter through which air can flow.

The connection retention mechanism connects the upstream end to the wall of the housing. It is sealed by the connection between the upstream end and the wall of the casing. The connection holding mechanism prevents air from flowing into the gap from upstream of the upstream end.

Upstream of the upstream end of the photocatalyst filter, air is prevented from directly flowing into the gap, and air is easily allowed to flow into the gap through the photocatalyst filter. By making it easier for air to flow into the gap, it can be made easier to pass through the photocatalyst filter, and bacteria and viruses can be more easily captured by the photocatalyst filter.

1 to 3 show various arrangements of the casing and photocatalyst filter of the first embodiment described above. Note that in FIGS. 1 to 3, the ultraviolet light source is omitted. In FIGS. 1 to 3, the left direction on the paper surface indicates the upstream direction, and the right direction on the paper surface indicates the downstream direction. The top direction of the page indicates the left direction, and the bottom direction indicates the right direction.

<Direct connection of photocatalyst filter>
FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing an example in which the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are directly connected to the housing section 11.

An inflow pipe 12 and an outflow pipe 16 are connected to the housing portion 11 . The inflow pipe 12 corresponds to an intake area 120, which will be described below. The housing portion 11 corresponds to a purification area 140, which will be described later. Outflow pipe 16 corresponds to exhaust area 160, which will be described below. The housing portion 11 is located between the inflow pipe 12 and the outflow pipe 16. The inlet 12a of the inflow pipe 12 corresponds to an opening 124, which will be described later. The cross-sectional area of the housing portion 11 is larger than the cross-sectional area of the inlet 12a of the inflow pipe 12. The cross-sectional area is the area perpendicular to the direction of airflow from upstream to downstream. The housing has a rectangular parallelepiped shape or a square cylindrical shape. However, the shape of the housing is not limited to a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but may also be a cubic shape, a rectangular tube shape, or a cylindrical shape. It may be a curved shape in the longitudinal direction.

As shown in FIG. 1, the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are arranged in the housing section 11. The housing portion 11 has a right side gap 42R and a left side gap 42L. The right gap 42R is formed between the right photocatalyst filter 44R and the right wall 22R of the housing 11. The left side gap 42L is formed between the left side photocatalyst filter 44L and the left side wall 22L of the housing 11.

As shown in FIG. 1A, the upstream end 37R of the right photocatalyst filter 44R is directly connected to the upstream right end 15R of the casing 11. The upstream end 37L of the left photocatalyst filter 44L is directly connected to the upstream left end 15L of the housing 11.

In the example shown in FIG. 1(a), the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are connected flush with the inflow pipe 12. The right photocatalyst filter 44R is directly connected to the inflow pipe 12 by the flat connection plate 24. The left photocatalyst filter 44L is directly connected to the flat connection plate 24 inflow pipe 12. By using locking members (not shown) such as screws, the flat connection plate 24 can be attached to the right photocatalyst filter 44R and the inflow pipe 12, and can be attached to the left photocatalyst filter 44L and the inflow pipe 12. In this case, the flat connection plate 24 functions as a connection retention mechanism.

Further, the right side photocatalyst filter 44R is directly connected to the upstream right end portion 15R of the housing portion 11 by the L-shaped connection plate 26. The left photocatalyst filter 44L is directly connected to the upstream left end portion 15L of the housing portion 11 by the L-shaped connection plate 26. By using locking members (not shown) such as screws, the L-shaped connection plate 26 can be attached to the right photocatalyst filter 44R and the upstream right end 15R, and to the left photocatalyst filter 44L and the upstream left end 15L. Can be done. In this case, the L-shaped connection plate 26 functions as a connection holding mechanism.

In the example shown in FIG. 1(b), the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are connected to the inflow pipe 12 with a difference in level.

The right side photocatalyst filter 44R is directly connected to the upstream right end portion 15R of the housing portion 11 by the two L-shaped connection plates 26. The left photocatalyst filter 44L is directly connected to the upstream left end 15L of the housing section 11 by two L-shaped connection plates 26. By using a locking member (not shown) such as a screw, the two L-shaped connection plates 26 are mounted facing each other and sandwiched between the right photocatalyst filter 44R and the upstream right end 15R, and the left photocatalyst filter 44L and the upstream left side It can be attached by being sandwiched between the end portions 15L. In this case, the two L-shaped connection plates 26 function as a connection holding mechanism.

As shown in FIGS. 1(a) and (b), by directly connecting the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L to the housing 11, the upstream ends of the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L Air can be prevented from flowing into the right gap 42R and the left gap 42L from upstream. Air from upstream is made easier to flow into the right gap 42R and the left gap 42L via the right photocatalyst filter 44R and the left photocatalyst filter 44L. With this configuration, bacteria and viruses can be easily captured by the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L.

<Indirect connection of photocatalyst filter>
FIG. 2 shows an example in which the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are indirectly connected to the housing portion 11. Note that in FIG. 2, the same components as in FIG. 1 are given the same reference numerals.

FIG. 2A shows an example in which the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are connected to the housing portion 11 using a plate member 28 perpendicular to the upstream and downstream directions as a connection and holding mechanism. FIG. 2B shows an example in which the right side photocatalytic filter 44R and the left side photocatalytic filter 44L are connected to the housing portion 11 using a plate member 29 parallel to the upstream and downstream directions as a connection and holding mechanism. The plate material 28 and the plate material 29 can be attached by using a locking member (not shown) such as a screw.

In this way, the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L can also be connected to the housing portion 11 via another member such as the plate material 28 or the plate material 29. Even with this configuration, air can be prevented from flowing into the right gap 42R and the left gap 42L from upstream of the upstream ends of the right photocatalyst filter 44R and the left photocatalyst filter 44L. Air from upstream is passed through the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L, so that bacteria and viruses can be easily captured by the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L.

<Orientation of the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L>
In FIGS. 1 and 2, an example is shown in which the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L are arranged parallel to each other and from upstream to downstream, but the arrangement of the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L is as follows. It is not limited to this.

FIG. 3A shows an example in which the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are arranged so as to be separated from each other toward the downstream. Pressure loss due to the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L can be reduced, and air can be smoothly guided downstream.

FIG. 3B shows an example in which the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are arranged so as to approach each other toward the downstream side. Air can be easily passed through the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L. By increasing the amount of air that passes through the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L, the amount of purified air can be increased.

Note that, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L may be arranged not only symmetrically from upstream to downstream, but also asymmetrically. The orientation, arrangement, size (length and area), etc. of the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L may be determined as appropriate depending on the distribution of air flow rate and flow velocity within the housing portion 11. Further, the shapes of the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L can be changed as appropriate, for example, they may have a bent shape or a curved shape. Air can be easily passed through the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L.

In the example described above, the right side photocatalytic filter 44R is arranged on the right side wall part 22R side, the left side photocatalytic filter 44L is arranged on the left side wall part 22L side, and the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L are arranged facing each other. An example is shown below. The arrangement of the photocatalyst filter is not limited to this. For example, a photocatalytic filter (not shown) facing the upper wall (not shown) and a photocatalytic filter (not shown) facing the lower wall (not shown) may be provided. Furthermore, the photocatalyst filter may be arranged so as to form or surround the right side wall 22R, the left side wall 22L, the upper wall, and the lower wall in a quadrangular column shape.

In the example described above, the cross-sectional area of the plane perpendicular to the direction of the airflow from upstream to downstream is different, but even if the right photocatalytic filter 44R and the left photocatalytic filter 44L are provided in the flow path with the same cross-sectional area, good. In this case, the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L can be arranged so as to approach each other toward the downstream side. Even with this configuration, the air passing through the right side photocatalyst filter 44R and the left side photocatalyst filter 44L can be purified.

<<<<Air purifying device 10 according to the present embodiment>>>>
FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing the entire air cleaning device 10. As shown in FIG. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the entire air cleaning unit 300. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the photocatalyst filter 344, the catalyst activation light source 350, and the inactivation light source 360. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the overall flow of air flowing through the air cleaning device 10. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the air flow in the purification zone 140.

<<<Structure of air purifier 10>>>
The air purifier 10 takes in air from a room to be purified, cleans it, and returns the purified air to the original room. The air purifying device 10 is mainly installed in the ceiling or the like. The air purifying device 10 may be installed in advance in the attic during construction, or may be installed later in the attic after construction.

<<<Housing 100>>>
The air purifier 10 has a housing 100. The housing 100 functions as a duct that forms a flow path for the inhaled air and guides the air.

The housing 100 has a certain hollow shape and is substantially a rectangular parallelepiped. The housing 100 is made of a plate-shaped member made of metal such as aluminum, stainless steel, or iron. Note that the housing 100 may be made of resin, glass, or the like. The housing 100 may be made of a material that is not easily affected by ultraviolet rays or the like. The housing 100 holds an air purifying unit 300, which will be described later, in a fixed position.

The housing 100 is
An upstream wall portion 102U,
A downstream wall portion 102D,
Right wall portion 102R,
Left wall portion 102L,
Upper wall portion 102T,
A lower wall portion 102B,
has. A substantially rectangular parallelepiped outer shape is defined by the upstream wall 102U, the downstream wall 102D, the right wall 102R, the left wall 102L, the top wall 102T, and the bottom wall 102B. A substantially quadrangular prism shape is formed by the right wall portion 102R, the left wall portion 102L, the upper wall portion 102T, and the lower wall portion 102B. The right wall 102R, the left wall 102L, the top wall 102T, and the bottom wall 102B constitute a side wall of the housing 100.

The inner surfaces of the right wall 102R, the left wall 102L, the top wall 102T, and the bottom wall 102B reflect ultraviolet light. The members (for example, aluminum materials) forming the left wall portion 102L, the upper wall portion 102T, and the lower wall portion 102B have a property of reflecting ultraviolet light. Note that a paint or the like that reflects ultraviolet light may be applied to the inner surfaces of the right wall portion 102R, the left wall portion 102L, the upper wall portion 102T, and the lower wall portion 102B. By reflecting ultraviolet light (described later) inside the housing 100, the photocatalyst filter 344 can be irradiated with ultraviolet light multiple times. The efficiency of ultraviolet light irradiation can be increased by multiple irradiations. The photocatalyst filter 344 will be explained later.

The housing 100 mainly includes:
Inlet 110;
an intake area 120;
a purification area 140;
an exhaust area 160;
an exhaust port 180;
has.

<<Inlet 110>>
Inlet 110 communicates with the interior of the room. The suction port 110 sucks indoor air and guides it into the interior of the casing 100. The suction port 110 opens toward the interior of the room. The suction port 110 is formed at the bottom of the housing 100. The suction port 110 has a substantially rectangular shape. The suction port 110 has an elongated shape. The suction port 110 may have any shape as long as it can efficiently suck indoor air.

<<Intake area 120>>
The intake area 120 is formed between the upstream wall 102U and the closure plate 122. The intake area 120 is located upstream of the housing 100. The intake area 120 has a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. Air drawn in through the inlet 110 is directed to the inlet area 120.

<Closure plate 122>
Intake area 120 has a closure plate 122 . Closure plate 122 defines an intake area 120 and a purification area 140. The closing plate 122 is made of a plate-shaped member made of metal such as aluminum, stainless steel, or iron. The closing plate 122 has a predetermined thickness. The thickness of the blocking plate 122 may be any thickness that can withstand wind pressure caused by airflow.

The closing plate 122 may be made of resin, glass, or the like. The closing plate 122 may be made of a material that is not easily affected by ultraviolet rays or the like.

The occluding plate 122 has the property of reflecting ultraviolet light. A paint or the like that reflects ultraviolet light may be applied to the surface of the closing plate 122 on the purification area 140 side. By reflecting the ultraviolet light, the efficiency of ultraviolet light irradiation can be increased.

Connection portions where the closing plate 122 and each of the walls, ie, the right wall 102R, the left wall 102L, the upper wall 102T, and the lower wall 102B, are connected are sealed. Prevent air from leaking or flowing back from the connection. The closing plate 122 is arranged inside the housing 100 perpendicularly to the direction of airflow from upstream to downstream.

As will be described later, the upstream end 370R of the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the upstream end 370L of the left photocatalytic filter 344L are connected to the closing plate 122 (see FIG. 7). For example, the upstream end 370R of the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the upstream end 370L of the left photocatalytic filter 344L are connected to the closing plate 122 by screws or the like (not shown). It can be sealed by connecting the upstream end 370R of the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the upstream end 370L of the left photocatalytic filter 344L to the closing plate 122. Air can be prevented from flowing into the right gap 142R and the left gap 142L from upstream of the upstream end 370L. With this configuration, air can be allowed to flow into the right gap 142R after passing through the right photocatalyst filter 344R, or air can be allowed to flow into the left gap 142L after passing through the left photocatalyst filter 344L.

<Opening 124>
The closing plate 122 has an opening 124 . Air drawn into intake area 120 from the room flows through opening 124 to purification area 140 .

The size of opening 124 is smaller than the cross-sectional area of intake area 120. The cross-sectional area of the intake area 120 is the area perpendicular to the direction of airflow from upstream to downstream. Further, the cross-sectional area of the intake area 120 is the area of the surface defined by the right wall 102R, the left wall 102L, the upper wall 102T, and the lower wall 102B in the intake area 120.

Note that the cross-sectional area of the air intake area 120 and the purification area 140 of the air purifier 10 in this embodiment are the same. The cross-sectional area of the purification zone 140, like the cross-sectional area of the intake zone 120, is the area perpendicular to the direction of airflow from upstream to downstream. Further, the cross-sectional area of the purification area 140 is the area of the surface defined by the right wall 102R, the left wall 102L, the upper wall 102T, and the lower wall 102B in the purification area 140.

Air always passes through openings 124 in closure plate 122 as it flows from intake area 120 to purification area 140 . By making the size of the opening 124 smaller than the cross-sectional area of the intake area 120, the air is throttled through the opening 124 and then released toward the purification area 140.

With this configuration, air can be guided to the purification zone 140 at a high flow rate. By increasing the flow rate of the air discharged from the opening 124, the heat emitted from the light emitting diode 352 of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the light emitting diode 362 of the inactivation light source 360 (details will be described later) is transferred to the back surface (rear surface exhaust). It can be cooled by removing heat from the air. Furthermore, by increasing the flow rate, it is possible to increase the amount of air that passes through the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L, thereby increasing the amount of bacteria and viruses that are captured and increasing the sterilization efficiency. Furthermore, by increasing the flow rate, particles with a large specific gravity can easily travel in a straight line, making it difficult for them to be captured by the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the left photocatalytic filter 344L, so that they can be deposited on the surface of the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the left photocatalytic filter 344L. Makes it difficult to get dirty.

Further, since the opening 124 of the closing plate 122 once narrows, it is guided into the wide space of the purification area 140, so it is possible to increase the amount of air passing through the right gap 142R and the left gap 142L (details will be described later). sterilization efficiency can be increased.

When the speed of the airflow after passing through the opening 124 of the blocking plate 122 increases, particles with a large specific gravity tend to advance linearly, making it difficult for dirt to adhere to the surfaces of the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the left photocatalytic filter 344L.

By once constricting the air flow through the opening 124, the opening 124 functions as a nozzle and generates a velocity distribution, which makes it easier to diffuse the air passing through the opening 124 into the purification area 140, thereby reducing the flow velocity. Slow air can be easily passed through the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L.

The size of the opening 124 is the same as the opening of the air purification unit 300 defined by the upstream ends of the right photocatalyst filter 344R and the left photocatalyst filter 344L. As will be described later, the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L are arranged apart from each other. The right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L are separated by a width FW. Further, the upstream end portions of the right photocatalyst filter 344R and the left photocatalyst filter 344L have a height FH. The opening of the air cleaning unit 300 has a size of width FW×height FH. The opening 124 also has a size of width FW×height FH.

With this configuration, all the air flowing out from the opening 124 can be guided to the gap region between the right photocatalyst filter 344R and the left photocatalyst filter 344L without leaking.

<Shielding plate 126>
The closing plate 122 has a shielding plate 126 (see FIG. 7). The shielding plate 126 protrudes from the closing plate 122 toward the upstream wall 102U. The shielding plate 126 extends horizontally. The shielding plate 126 is arranged substantially perpendicularly to the closing plate 122. The blocking plate 122 blocks the ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360, and prevents ultraviolet light from leaking from the inlet 110. The shielding plate 126 is made of a member that blocks ultraviolet light.

<<Purification area 140>>
The purification zone 140 is adjacent to the intake zone 120 with the closure plate 122 in between. Purification area 140 includes an air purification unit 300.

<Air cleaning unit 300>
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the entire air cleaning unit 300. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the photocatalyst filter 344, the catalyst activation light source 350, and the inactivation light source 360.

The air purification unit 300 mainly includes a photocatalyst filter cassette 340, a catalyst activation light source 350, and an inactivation light source 360.

<Photocatalyst filter cassette 340>
The photocatalyst filter cassette 340 includes a photocatalyst filter 344 that supports a photocatalyst. The photocatalyst filter cassette 340 is formed in a cassette shape so as to be detachable. The photocatalyst filter cassette 340 includes a right photocatalyst filter cassette 340R and a left photocatalyst filter cassette 340L. The right photocatalyst filter cassette 340R is arranged on the right side along the upstream to downstream direction. The left photocatalyst filter cassette 340L is arranged on the left side along the upstream to downstream direction. Below, when there is no need to distinguish between the right side photocatalyst filter cassette 340R and the left side photocatalyst filter cassette 340L, they will simply be referred to as photocatalyst filter cassette 340.

<Light source 350 for catalyst activation>
The catalyst activation light source 350 emits ultraviolet light. The ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350 is irradiated onto the photocatalyst filter 344 of the photocatalyst filter cassette 340 . The photocatalyst of the photocatalyst filter 344 is activated by irradiation with ultraviolet light. The configuration of the photocatalyst filter 344 will be described later.

The catalyst activation light source 350 includes a right catalyst activation light source 350R and a left catalyst activation light source 350L.

The right catalyst activation light source 350R faces the right photocatalyst filter 344R. The ultraviolet light emitted from the right catalyst activation light source 350R travels toward the right photocatalyst filter 344R. The right catalyst activation light source 350R mainly illuminates the right photocatalyst filter 344R.

The left side catalyst activation light source 350L faces the left side photocatalyst filter 344L. The ultraviolet light emitted from the left catalyst activation light source 350L travels toward the left photocatalyst filter 344L. The left side catalyst activation light source 350L mainly illuminates the left side photocatalyst filter 344L.

<Inactivation light source 360>
The inactivation light source 360 emits ultraviolet light with a shorter wavelength than the ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350. The ultraviolet light emitted from the inactivation light source 360 is irradiated onto the photocatalyst filter 344 of the photocatalyst filter cassette 340. By irradiating the photocatalyst filter 344 with ultraviolet light having a shorter wavelength than the ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350, bacteria and viruses are inactivated.

The inactivation light source 360 includes a right inactivation light source 360R and a left inactivation light source 360L.

The right inactivation light source 360R faces the right photocatalyst filter 344R. The ultraviolet light emitted from the right inactivation light source 360R travels toward the right photocatalyst filter 344R. The right inactivation light source 360R mainly illuminates the right photocatalyst filter 344R.

The left inactivation light source 360L faces the left photocatalyst filter 344L. The ultraviolet light emitted from the left catalyst activation light source 350L travels toward the left photocatalyst filter 344L. The left side catalyst activation light source 350L mainly illuminates the left side photocatalyst filter 344L.

The air purification unit 300 also includes an outer plate 310, a filter guide rail 320, and a light source support frame 330.

<Outer panel 310>
The outer plate 310 has a rectangular shape. The outer plate 310 is a plate for holding the filter guide rail 320 and for attaching the air purification unit 300 to the housing 100.

<Filter guide rail 320>
The filter guide rail 320 is a member for detachably supporting the photocatalyst filter cassette 340. The filter guide rail 320 is provided on the housing 100 so as to protrude into the purification area 140 .

<Light source support frame 330>
The light source support frame 330 has an elongated shape. The light source support frame 330 is provided to protrude into the purification area 140. The light source support frame 330 is provided with a catalyst activation light source 350 or an inactivation light source 360.

<Photocatalyst filter 344>
Photocatalyst filter cassette 340 has a photocatalyst filter 344. The photocatalyst filter 344 supports a photocatalyst that exhibits a photocatalytic function upon irradiation with ultraviolet rays. The right photocatalyst filter cassette 340R has a right photocatalyst filter 344R. The right photocatalyst filter 344R is attached to the right photocatalyst filter cassette 340R. The left side photocatalyst filter cassette 340L has a left side photocatalyst filter 344L. The left photocatalyst filter 344L is attached to the left photocatalyst filter cassette 340L. Below, when there is no need to distinguish between the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L, they will simply be referred to as photocatalyst filter 344.

In this embodiment, the photocatalyst filter 344 has a structure in which a photocatalyst containing apatite, titanium oxide, or the like is supported on the surface of a filter base made of an inorganic material such as stainless steel or aluminum.

The filter base is made of, for example, a nonwoven fabric made of a fibrous material made of stainless steel, aluminum, or the like, or an expanded metal or punched metal made of stainless steel, aluminum, or the like. By using a filter base made of an inorganic material such as stainless steel or aluminum, deterioration of the filter base can be suppressed, and maintenance and replacement frequency can be reduced.

The method of supporting the photocatalyst includes a method of coating the surface of a filter base material, and a method of supporting a particulate photocatalyst within the fibrous body when a fibrous base material is used. The method of supporting the catalyst on the surface of the filter base material is preferable in that it can easily receive the ultraviolet rays emitted from the light source 350 for catalyst activation. On the other hand, a method in which a fibrous material, a mesh, or a punched metal is supported as a base material is preferable because it can increase the contact area with the air flowing through the purification zone 140 and lengthen the contact time with the photocatalyst.

In this embodiment, photocatalyst filter cassette 340 includes a photocatalyst filter 344 and a filter frame 342. The photocatalyst filter 344 is held by the filter frame 342. The photocatalyst filter 344 extends in a flat shape by being held by the filter frame 342. Although two photocatalyst filter cassettes 340 are used in this embodiment, the number of photocatalyst filter cassettes 340 is not limited to this, and may be one or three or more.

<Support of photocatalyst filter cassette 340>
The photocatalyst filter cassette 340 is detachably supported by a pair of filter guide rails 320 facing each other.

The filter guide rail 320 has an elongated shape. The filter guide rail 320 has a distal end side (projecting end side (side away from the outer plate 310)) and a base end side (outer plate 310 side).

The filter guide rail 320 has a substantially U-shaped cross section. The filter guide rail 320 has a bottom groove portion and two side wall portions. The two side walls protrude from the bottom groove with the bottom groove in between, and are parallel to each other and face each other. An opening is formed by two side walls spaced apart from each other.

The pair of filter guide rails 320 are arranged such that their openings face each other and their bottom grooves are separated from each other.

In this embodiment, air purification unit 300 has two photocatalyst filter cassettes 340. A pair of filter guide rails 320 facing each other is used for each of the two photocatalyst filter cassettes 340.

The photocatalyst filter cassette 340 is held between a pair of filter guide rails 320 that face each other. Slide the end of the photocatalyst filter cassette 340 into the opening of the filter guide rail 320 from the tip side (projecting end side) to the base end side (outer plate 310 side) of the pair of filter guide rails 320 facing each other. Insert. In this way, the photocatalyst filter cassette 340 is attached to the outer plate 310 via the pair of filter guide rails 320.

<Catalyst activation light source 350 and inactivation light source 360>
The catalyst activation light source 350 is a light source for irradiating the photocatalyst filter cassette 340 with ultraviolet light to activate the photocatalyst. The inactivation light source 360 is a light source for inactivating bacteria and viruses. By configuring the light source 350 for catalyst activation and the light source 360 for inactivation separately rather than in common, it is possible to achieve both the deodorizing effect of activating the photocatalyst and the effect of inactivating bacteria and viruses. , it becomes possible to get enough. In order to obtain sufficient effects of deodorization and inactivation of bacteria, etc., it is desirable to configure the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 separately.

The catalyst activation light source 350 includes a plurality of light emitting diodes 352. The plurality of light emitting diodes 352 are arranged substantially in a straight line. The inactivation light source 360 has a plurality of light emitting diodes 362. The plurality of light emitting diodes 362 are arranged substantially in a straight line. By configuring the catalyst activation light source 350 with the light emitting diode 352 and the inactivation light source 360 with the light emitting diode 362, for example, compared to the case where an ultraviolet lamp is used, the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 350 are The size of the light source 360 can be reduced. Specifically, the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 can be formed thin. By doing so, it is possible to suppress an increase in air resistance within the purification zone 140 due to the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360. Therefore, the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 can be applied to the small (slender) casing 100 as well.

Furthermore, by configuring the catalyst activation light source 350 with a light emitting diode 352 and configuring the inactivation light source 360 with a light emitting diode 362, power consumption can be reduced compared to, for example, a case where an ultraviolet lamp is used.

Furthermore, the light emitting diodes 352 and 362 have a long lifespan, such as not requiring replacement of the light emitting diodes for more than 5 years. Therefore, compared to ultraviolet lamps that must be replaced about once a year, the labor and running costs for replacement can be reduced, and maintainability can be improved. In particular, as in this embodiment, by separately configuring the catalyst activation light source 350 with the light emitting diode 352 and the inactivation light source 360 with the light emitting diode 362, the effect can be greatly increased.

As the light emitting diode 352 constituting the light source 350 for catalyst activation, a light emitting diode that emits ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 360 nm or more and 380 nm or less is used. In this embodiment, a light emitting diode 352 that emits ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 365 nm is used as the light source 350 for catalytic activation.

As the light emitting diode 362 constituting the inactivation light source 360, one that emits ultraviolet light with a shorter wavelength than the light emitting diode 352 constituting the catalyst activation light source is used. More specifically, as the light emitting diode 362 constituting the inactivation light source 360, a light emitting diode that emits deep ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 250 nm or more and 280 nm or less is used. In this embodiment, a light emitting diode 362 that emits deep ultraviolet light with a wavelength of 280 nm is used as the inactivation light source 360.

A plurality of light emitting diodes 352 are arranged in a substantially straight line on the light source support frame 330, and constitute the light source 350 for catalyst activation. A plurality of light emitting diodes 362 are arranged in a substantially straight line on the light source support frame 330, and constitute the inactivation light source 360. The light source support frame 330 on which the light emitting diode 352 is disposed and the light source support frame 330 on which the light emitting diode 362 is disposed are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the plurality of light emitting diodes 352 and the plurality of light emitting diodes 362 are arranged in a matrix as a whole (on the intersections of the plurality of lattices).

In this embodiment, air purification unit 300 has two photocatalyst filter cassettes 340. The two photocatalyst filter cassettes 340 are arranged facing each other and separated from each other. A catalyst activation light source 350 and an inactivation light source 360 are arranged between the photocatalyst filters 344 of the two photocatalyst filter cassettes 340.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the air purification unit 300 includes a total of four catalyst activation light sources 350 and two inactivation light sources 360. Six light source support frames 330 are provided to protrude from the outer panel 310. The six light source support frames 330 extend perpendicularly from the outer panel 310. The six light source support frames 330 are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other. Each of the four catalyst activation light sources 350 and the two inactivation light sources 360 is attached to the light source support frame 330.

Two light sources 350 for catalytic activation and one light source 360 for inactivation are arranged in correspondence with each of the two photocatalyst filters 344 . Two catalyst activation light sources 350 corresponding to each of the photocatalyst filters 344 are arranged in parallel with one inactivation light source 360 interposed therebetween. The ultraviolet rays emitted from the two catalyst activation light sources 350 and one inactivation light source 360 proceed toward the corresponding photocatalyst filters 344 and are irradiated therewith.

The light source 350 for catalyst activation is arranged at a position farther from the photocatalyst filter cassette 340 than the light source 360 for inactivation. Thereby, even if the photocatalyst filter 344 is relatively large in size, the entire photocatalyst filter 344 can be irradiated with ultraviolet light from the catalyst activation light source 350, and a sufficient photocatalyst activation effect can be obtained. Moreover, the light source 360 for inactivation is arranged at a position closer to the photocatalyst filter cassette 340 than the light source 350 for catalyst activation. This makes it possible to sufficiently inactivate bacteria and viruses by the inactivating light source 360.

As shown in FIG. 8, the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 are arranged so that the emitted ultraviolet light goes from the inside (center side of the purification area 140) to the outside (right wall 102R and left wall 102L). It is set in. Thereby, the wiring for the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 can be gathered in the center of the air purification unit 300, and the wiring layout can be simplified. However, the invention is not limited to this, and the light source 350 for catalyst activation and the light source 360 for inactivation may be provided. In this case, since the inner wall of the casing 100 is less likely to be irradiated with ultraviolet light, deterioration of the casing 100 can be suppressed.

Note that in this embodiment, a case has been described in which the photocatalytic filter 344 is arranged so that the surface on which the photocatalytic filter 344 extends is parallel to the air flow from upstream to downstream; however, the arrangement of the photocatalytic filter 344 is not limited to this. Further, the photocatalyst filter 344 may be arranged so that the surface on which the photocatalyst filter 344 extends forms a predetermined angle with respect to the air flow.

<<Upstream end 370R and upstream end 370L and downstream end 380R and downstream end 380L>>
The right photocatalyst filter cassette 340R and the right photocatalyst filter 344R have an upstream end 370R on the upstream side and a downstream end 380R on the downstream side. The upstream end 370R is arranged toward the upstream side, and the downstream end 380R is arranged toward the downstream.

The left photocatalyst filter cassette 340L and the left photocatalyst filter 344L have an upstream end 370L on the upstream side and a downstream end 380L on the downstream side. The upstream end 370L is disposed toward upstream, and the downstream end 380L is disposed toward downstream.

<<Exhaust area 160>>
The exhaust zone 160 is a zone that guides the air purified in the purification zone 140 to the exhaust port 180. The exhaust area 160 has a generally rectangular shape. Exhaust area 160 has an exhaust port 180. The exhaust port 180 communicates with the interior of the room. There is no member, such as the closure plate 122, between the purification zone 140 and the exhaust zone 160. Air from the purification zone 140 is smoothly guided through the exhaust zone 160 to the exhaust port 180.

As shown in FIG. 7, the exhaust area 160 includes a fan 162. Fan 162 is coupled to motor 164 via shaft 166. The fan 162 is rotated by the driving force of the motor 164 transmitted through the shaft 166. Rotation of fan 162 creates airflow through purification zone 140 .

Note that a motor 164, a control circuit 168, and a power supply circuit 170 are provided on the outside of the housing 100. Power supply circuit 170 supplies electric power necessary for driving to motor 164 and control circuit 168. Control circuit 168 controls the rotation speed of motor 164. The speed and flow rate of the airflow through the purification zone 140 can be controlled by the rotational speed of the motor 164.

The control circuit 168 has an operation section (not shown) that can be operated by an operator. By operating the operating section, the operator can set the flow rate and flow rate as desired by the operator.

By providing the motor 164, control circuit 168, and power supply circuit 170 on the outside of the housing 100, it is possible to prevent heat from the motor 164, control circuit 168, and power supply circuit 170 from being applied to the air discharged from the exhaust port 180.

<<<Overall air flow>>>
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the overall flow of air flowing through the air cleaning device 10. As shown in FIG. 7, the housing 100 is installed in the ceiling. The intake port 110 and the exhaust port 180 of the housing 100 open toward the interior of the room.

By driving the motor 164, room air is drawn into the intake area 120 through the intake port 110. Air drawn into the intake area 120 is guided to the purification area 140 via the opening 124 in the closure plate 122 . The air purified in the purification zone 140 is guided to the exhaust zone 160 via the fan 162 and returned to the room through the exhaust port 180.

The air flow path shown in FIG. 7 is an example. The air purifier 10 may be any device as long as it has a flow path for purifying indoor air and returning it indoors. In other words, the air purifier 10 may have a flow path that can purify indoor air while circulating it.

<<<Air flow in purification area 140>>>
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the air flow in the purification zone 140.

<Arrangement of right side photocatalyst filter 344R and left side photocatalyst filter 344L>
The right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L extend from upstream to downstream. The right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L are arranged parallel to each other. Air can flow smoothly within the purification zone 140 without causing pressure loss.

<Right gap 142R>
The right side photocatalyst filter 344R faces the right wall portion 102R with a gap therebetween. The right photocatalyst filter 344R is arranged parallel to the right wall portion 102R. A right gap 142R is formed between the right photocatalyst filter 344R and the right wall portion 102R. The air that has passed through the right photocatalyst filter 344R can flow through the right gap 142R.

The distance between the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the right wall portion 102R can be appropriately determined depending on the flow rate, flow rate, etc. of the air passing through the right gap 142R.

<Left gap 142L>
The left photocatalyst filter 344L faces the left wall portion 102L with a gap therebetween. The left photocatalyst filter 344L is arranged parallel to the left wall portion 102L. A left gap 142L is formed between the left photocatalyst filter 344L and the left wall portion 102L. The air that has passed through the left photocatalyst filter 344L can flow through the left gap 142L.

The distance between the left side photocatalyst filter 344L and the left wall portion 102L can be appropriately determined depending on the flow rate, flow rate, etc. of the air passing through the left gap 142L.

<Irradiation area IR (right side irradiation area IR-R and left side irradiation area IR-L)>
The purification zone 140 has an irradiation region IR illuminated by ultraviolet light emitted from a catalyst activation light source 350 and an inactivation light source 360. The irradiation region IR is a region that is irradiated with ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 and effectively functions as the ultraviolet light.

The irradiation region IR has a right irradiation region IR-R and a left irradiation region IR-L. The right side irradiation region IR-R is mainly an area between the right side catalyst activation light source 350R, the right side inactivation light source 360R, and the right wall portion 102R. The left side irradiation region IR-L is mainly a region between the left side catalyst activation light source 350L and the left side inactivation light source 360L and the left wall portion 102L.

Note that, as described above, the inner surfaces of the right wall portion 102R, the left wall portion 102L, the upper wall portion 102T, and the lower wall portion 102B reflect ultraviolet light. Therefore, the irradiation region IR can include not only the region directly irradiated with the ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360, but also the region irradiated with reflected ultraviolet light. . For example, the irradiation region IR can be a region with a predetermined brightness (for example, illuminance) or more, or a region with a predetermined intensity or more.

<Non-irradiation area NIR>
The purification zone 140 has a non-irradiated region NIR that is not illuminated by the ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360. The non-irradiation region NIR can be a region on the back side where the light emitting diode 352 of the light source 350 for catalyst activation is not provided, a region on the back side where the light emitting diode 362 of the light source 360 for inactivation is not provided, etc. . The non-irradiation region NIR is a region where the ultraviolet light emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 does not function effectively as ultraviolet light. The non-irradiation region NIR can be a region that does not function effectively as ultraviolet light even if ultraviolet light reaches it.

The purification zone 140 is an area between the right side catalyst activation light source 350R and the right side inactivation light source 360R, and the left side catalyst activation light source 350L and the left side inactivation light source 360L. For example, the non-irradiated area NIR can be an area where the brightness (for example, illuminance) is less than a predetermined value or an area where the intensity is less than a predetermined value.

<<Direction of arrangement of right side photocatalyst filter 344R and left side photocatalyst filter 344L>>
Note that the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L may be arranged so as to approach each other toward the downstream. Air can easily pass through the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L. By increasing the amount of air that passes through the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L, the amount of purified air can be increased.

Conversely, the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the left photocatalytic filter 344L may be arranged so as to be separated from each other toward the downstream. Air can be smoothly guided to the exhaust area 160 by reducing pressure loss due to the right photocatalytic filter 344R and the left photocatalytic filter 344L.

<<Air flow>>
All the air that has flowed into the purification zone 140 from the opening 124 (upstream side) of the closing plate 122 is transferred to the upstream end 370R of the right photocatalytic filter 344R (the upstream end of the right photocatalytic filter cassette 340R) and the left photocatalytic filter. 344L and the upstream end 370L (the upstream end of the left photocatalyst filter cassette 340L).

<Passing through the right side photocatalyst filter 344R and the left side photocatalyst filter 344L>
The air passing through the opening 124 spreads laterally within the purification zone 140. The air that has proceeded to the right passes through the right photocatalyst filter 344R and flows through the right gap 142R (arrow FR in FIG. 7). By passing through the right photocatalytic filter 344R, bacteria and viruses can be captured by the right photocatalytic filter 344R. The right photocatalyst filter 344R is located in the right irradiation region IR-R. Bacteria and viruses captured by the right photocatalyst filter 344R are inactivated by the right inactivation light source 360R. By providing the right gap 142R, the flow path FR passing through the right photocatalyst filter 344R can be easily formed.

Furthermore, the air that has proceeded to the left passes through the left photocatalyst filter 344L and flows through the left gap 142L (arrow FL in FIG. 7). By passing through the left photocatalytic filter 344L, bacteria and viruses can be captured by the left photocatalytic filter 344L. The left photocatalyst filter 344L is located in the left irradiation region IR-L. Bacteria and viruses captured by the left photocatalyst filter 344L are inactivated by the left inactivation light source 360L. By providing the left gap 142L, it is possible to easily form the flow path FL passing through the left photocatalyst filter 344L.

Further, air that does not go in the left-right direction travels straight without passing through the right photocatalyst filter 344R and the left photocatalyst filter 344L, and flows through the non-irradiation region NIR (arrow FS in FIG. 7). By causing air to flow into the non-irradiation region NIR, heat can be removed from the back surfaces of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 for air cooling.

<<Top wall part 102T and bottom wall part 102B>>
In the example described above, the right photocatalytic filter 344R was arranged to face the right wall 102R, and the left photocatalytic filter 344L was arranged to face the left wall 102L. Not limited to.

For example, a photocatalytic filter (not shown) facing the upper wall 102T and a photocatalytic filter (not shown) facing the lower wall 102B may be provided. Moreover, you may arrange|position a photocatalyst filter so that the right wall part 102R, the left wall part 102L, the upper wall part 102T, and the lower wall part 102B may face. That is, the photocatalyst filter may be arranged so as to have a rectangular column shape as a whole or to surround the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360.

<<<Relationship between the wind speed of the fan 162, the noise level caused by the fan 162, and the temperature of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360>>>
FIG. 9 is a graph showing the relationship between the wind speed of the fan 162 (horizontal axis), the noise value caused by the fan 162 (left vertical axis), and the temperature of the catalyst activation light source 350 and inactivation light source 360 (right vertical axis). be.

As described above, the air purifier 10 is controlled so that the fan 162 rotates by the control circuit 168. As shown in FIG. 9, as the rotation speed of the fan 162 increases, the noise value due to wind noise and operation sound of the motor 164 increases. Higher noise values can result in an unsuitable environment. The maximum wind speed (for example, 10.0 m/sec) by the fan 162 can be determined from the allowable noise value.

Moreover, when the rotation speed of the fan 162 becomes high, it becomes easier to remove the heat emitted from the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360, and the temperature of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 can be lowered. On the other hand, when the rotation speed of the fan 162 becomes low, heat cannot be sufficiently removed from the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360, and the temperatures of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 tend to increase. If the temperature of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 continues to be high, the durability of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 decreases. The minimum wind speed (for example, 0.65 m/sec) by the fan 162 can be determined based on the temperature allowed from the durability of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360.

In this way, when the fan 162 is used, it is preferable to drive the fan 162 so that the wind speed is greater than or equal to the minimum wind speed and less than or equal to the maximum wind speed (within a predetermined range). By setting the wind speed to be at least the minimum wind speed, the durability of the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 can be maintained to extend the lifespan, and by setting the wind speed to the maximum wind speed or lower, a quiet environment can be maintained.

<<<Modified example>>>
In the above-mentioned description of the present embodiment, the case where the air purifying device 10 is placed in the ceiling is explained as an example, but the air purifying device 10 is not limited to being placed in the ceiling. It may be placed in Further, the present invention may be applied to an air cleaning device installed in an air conditioning duct.

As described above, in this embodiment, the blocking plate 122, the filter guide rail 320, the filter frame 342, and various locking members and engaging members such as screws and nuts are attached to the side wall portion of the housing 100 ( These are members required for connecting the photocatalyst filter 344 to the right wall portion 102R, left wall portion 102L, upper wall portion 102T, and lower wall portion 102B. The connection holding mechanism is a mechanism constituted by members required for this connection. The connection holding mechanism is not limited to the configuration of this embodiment, and the upstream end of the photocatalytic filter is connected to the wall of the casing, and the connection holding mechanism is connected to the side wall of the casing from upstream of the upstream end of the photocatalytic filter. Any mechanism can be used as long as it can prevent air from flowing to the outside, and the design can be changed as appropriate.

(Embodiment of the invention)
<<First embodiment>>
According to the first embodiment:
A photocatalyst filter carrying a photocatalyst, which extends from upstream to downstream of the airflow, and has an upstream end (for example, the above-mentioned upstream end 370R and upstream end 370L) and a downstream end. (For example, the above-mentioned downstream end 380R and downstream end 380L, etc.) (for example, the above-mentioned photocatalyst filter 344 (right side photocatalyst filter 344R, left side photocatalyst filter 344L), etc.);
An ultraviolet light source that emits ultraviolet light toward the photocatalyst filter (for example, the above-mentioned light source for catalyst activation 350 (right side catalyst activation light source 350R or left side catalyst activation light source 350L) and inactivation light source 360 (right side inactivation light source) 360R, left side inactivation light source 360L), etc.)
A casing in which the photocatalytic filter is housed and has a wall that can guide air from upstream to downstream, and that allows air to flow between the wall that faces the photocatalytic filter and the photocatalytic filter. a housing having a gap (for example, the housing 100 described above),
The upstream end is connected to the wall of the casing, and a connection holding mechanism (for example, the above-mentioned closing plate 122 or filter (a mechanism having members necessary for connecting a photocatalyst filter to a wall of a housing such as a guide rail 320 and a filter frame 342).

Upstream of the upstream end of the photocatalyst filter, air is prevented from directly flowing into the gap, and air is easily allowed to flow into the gap through the photocatalyst filter. By making it easier for air to flow into the gap, it can be made easier to pass through the photocatalyst filter, and bacteria and viruses can be more easily captured by the photocatalyst filter.

<<Second embodiment>>
In the second embodiment, in the first embodiment,
The casing has an inlet through which air flows (such as the inlet 12a and the opening 124 described above), and an outlet through which the air flowing from the inlet flows out,
A flow passage cross-sectional area of the housing is larger than a flow passage cross-sectional area of the inlet.

By increasing the cross-sectional area of the flow path at the outlet, the flow rate of air flowing in from the inlet can be increased, and the air can be cooled by removing heat from the ultraviolet light source. Furthermore, it is possible to increase the amount of air that is allowed to flow in, thereby increasing the amount of bacteria and viruses captured by the photocatalyst filter, thereby increasing the sterilization efficiency. By increasing the flow rate, particles with a large specific gravity are more likely to travel in a straight line and are less likely to be captured by the photocatalyst filter, making it difficult for dirt to adhere to the surface of the photocatalyst filter.

<<Third embodiment>>
In the third embodiment, in the first embodiment or the second embodiment,
The upstream end is connected to the upstream wall between the inlet and the wall.

The air flow can be controlled from upstream, and the air flow can be used effectively.

<<Fourth embodiment>>
In the fourth embodiment, in the first embodiment to the third embodiment,
The connection and holding mechanism is such that the upstream end or the upstream end of a holder that holds the photocatalyst filter (for example, the above-mentioned right photocatalyst filter cassette 340R and left photocatalyst filter cassette 340L) is connected to the wall. Air is prevented from flowing into the gap, which is a directly connected mechanism.

<<Fifth embodiment>>
In the fifth embodiment, in the first embodiment to the fourth embodiment,
The connection and holding mechanism connects the upstream end or the upstream end of a holder that holds the photocatalyst filter (for example, the above-described right photocatalyst filter cassette 340R and left photocatalyst filter cassette 340L), and the wall. A mechanism having an intervening member interposed between the holder and the upstream end of the holder and the wall,
The intervening member prevents air from flowing into the gap.

Even when the configuration includes a holder that holds the photocatalyst filter, air from upstream can be prevented from flowing into the gap. Bacteria and viruses can be easily captured with a photocatalytic filter.

In this way, even when the photocatalytic filter is used alone or when the photocatalytic filter is held by a holder, it is possible to prevent air from directly flowing into the gap. By using the photocatalyst filter, bacteria and viruses can be easily captured by the photocatalyst filter.

<<Sixth embodiment>>
In the sixth embodiment, in the first embodiment to the fifth embodiment,
a first flow path (for example, the aforementioned flow path FS, etc.) that guides air without passing through the photocatalyst filter;
a second flow path (for example, the above-mentioned flow path FR) that guides air to the gap through the photocatalyst filter;
has.

The first flow path can prevent a decrease in pressure loss, and the second flow path can purify the air, making it difficult for pressure loss to occur and purifying the air. In addition, particles with large diameters can be passed through the first flow path instead of going to the second flow path due to their weight, which can prevent the roots of the photocatalyst filter from clogging and reduce the frequency of photocatalyst filter replacement work. can be lowered.

<<Seventh embodiment>>
In the seventh embodiment, in the sixth embodiment,
The casing includes an irradiable area where ultraviolet light is emitted from the ultraviolet light source (for example, the above-mentioned right side irradiation area IR-R and left side irradiation area IR-L, etc.) and a difficult-to-irradiate area where it is difficult to irradiate with ultraviolet light ( For example, the above-mentioned non-irradiation area NIR),
The first flow path is included in the difficult-to-irradiate region.

The ultraviolet light source can be air-cooled by blowing air that does not pass through the photocatalyst filter onto the ultraviolet light source in a difficult-to-irradiate region. The air flowing through the housing can be used effectively.

<<Eighth embodiment>>
In the eighth embodiment, in the first embodiment to the seventh embodiment,
It further includes an air flow generator (for example, the aforementioned fan 162 and motor 164) that causes air to flow from upstream to downstream.

Air can be made to flow actively or forced to flow, the air can be actively passed through a photocatalytic filter to be purified, and the ultraviolet light source can be actively cooled by exposing the air to the ultraviolet light source.

Further, the airflow generator is preferably controlled by a controller (eg, the control circuit 168 described above). The airflow generator is driven in response to a drive signal issued from the controller. Purification can be done quickly or gradually depending on the situation, such as pollution.

<<Ninth embodiment>>
In the ninth embodiment, in the eighth embodiment,
The flow velocity of the airflow flowing through the first flow path is greater than or equal to the minimum velocity based on the heat generated from the ultraviolet light source and less than or equal to the maximum velocity based on the allowable noise value of the noise generated from the airflow generation section (for example, minimum wind speed (such as 0.65 m/s) and maximum wind speed (such as 10.0 m/s).

By cooling the catalyst activation light source 350 and the inactivation light source 360 with air, it is possible to extend the lifespan and maintain a quiet environment.

<<Tenth embodiment>>
A tenth embodiment includes, in the eighth embodiment,
The air flow generator guides air from the room upstream, through the first flow path and the second flow path, and guides the air into the room from the downstream.

Since the air is circulated to and from the room and purified, the room can be purified efficiently.

<<<<Scope of embodiments>>>>
As mentioned above, this embodiment has been described. However, the description and drawings that form part of this disclosure should not be understood as limiting. It includes various embodiments not described here.

10 Air Purifier 100 Housing 122 Closure Plate (Connection Holding Mechanism)
320 Guide rail for filter 340 Frame for filter 344 Photocatalyst filter 350 Light source for catalyst activation (ultraviolet light source)
360 Inactivation light source (ultraviolet light source)

Claims (9)

Two photocatalyst filters carrying a photocatalyst, extending from upstream to downstream of the airflow, having an upstream end and a downstream end, and disposed apart from each other ;
an ultraviolet light source that emits ultraviolet light toward the photocatalyst filter;
A casing in which the photocatalytic filter is housed and has a wall that can guide air from upstream to downstream, and a first gap formed between the two photocatalytic filters and through which air can flow. and a second gap portion in which air can flow between the wall portion facing the photocatalyst filter and the photocatalyst filter;
a connection holding mechanism that connects the upstream end to a wall of the casing and prevents air from flowing into the first gap and the second gap from upstream of the upstream end; Equipped with
A first flow path is formed by air flowing through the first gap without passing through the photocatalyst filter,
An air purifying device in which a second flow path is formed by air passing through the photocatalyst filter from the first gap and flowing through the second gap. The ultraviolet light source has a first light source and a second light source different from the first light source,
further comprising: a first support member that supports the first light source; and a second support member that supports the second light source and is spaced apart from the first support member;
The first light source emits ultraviolet light toward a first wall facing the first support member,
The second light source emits ultraviolet light toward a second wall facing the second support member,
An irradiation area that can be irradiated with ultraviolet light is formed between the first support member and the first wall and between the second support member and the second wall,
The air purifying device according to claim 1, wherein a difficult-to-irradiate region that is difficult to irradiate with ultraviolet light is formed between the first support member and the second support member. The casing has an inlet through which air flows in, and an outlet through which air flows out from the inlet,
The air purifying device according to claim 1, wherein a cross-sectional area of the flow path of the housing is larger than a cross-sectional area of the flow path of the inlet. The air cleaning device according to claim 3 , wherein the upstream end is connected to the upstream wall between the inlet and the wall. The air purifying device according to claim 1, wherein the connection and holding mechanism is a mechanism that directly connects the upstream end or the upstream end of a holder that holds the photocatalyst filter to the wall. The connection holding mechanism is interposed between the upstream end or the upstream end of the holder holding the photocatalyst filter and the wall, and the connection holding mechanism is interposed between the upstream end of the holder and the wall. A mechanism having an intervening member connecting the parts,
The air cleaning device according to claim 1 , wherein the intervening member prevents air from flowing into the first gap and the second gap . The air cleaning device according to claim 1 or 6 , further comprising an air flow generator that causes air to flow from upstream to downstream. A flow rate of the airflow flowing through the first flow path is greater than or equal to a minimum velocity based on heat generated from the ultraviolet light source and less than or equal to a maximum velocity based on a permissible noise value of noise generated from the airflow generation section. The air purifying device according to item 7 . The air purifying device according to claim 7 , wherein the air flow generating section guides air from the room upstream, through the first flow path and the second flow path, and guides the air into the room from the downstream.