WO2018212077A1 - Ion generator - Google Patents

Abstract

This ion generator is provided with: a reference electrode (30); a discharge electrode (10) which is arranged at a distance from the reference electrode; and a power supply (40) which applies a voltage between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode, thereby causing the discharge electrode to generate a corona discharge. This ion generator produces ions by causing the discharge electrode to generate the corona discharge. This ion generator is also provided with an electrode (20) for arc, which is arranged at a distance from the reference electrode, and causes the electrode for arc to generate an arc discharge more preferentially than the discharge electrode.

Description

Ion generator Cross-reference to related applications

This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2017-96627 filed on May 15, 2017 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-27838 filed on February 20, 2018. The description is incorporated by reference.

The present disclosure relates to an ion generator that generates ions by inducing corona discharge.

Conventionally, there is a discharge unit that generates ions by applying a voltage from a power supply unit to a discharge unit having a discharge electrode and a counter electrode to form a discharge circuit and causing corona discharge. As such a discharge unit, there is a discharge unit having a needle-like discharge electrode and a flat counter electrode, and a resistor is arranged in series in the discharge circuit (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this discharge unit, the current flowing in the discharge circuit is suppressed by the resistors arranged in series in the discharge circuit, and the spark of the discharge can be suppressed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-121424

However, the inventor has found that there are the following cases even when the resistor is arranged in series in the discharge circuit as in the discharge unit described in Patent Document 1. For example, when an environment in which arc discharge is likely to occur, such as when the environment is a high humidity environment or when the distance between the discharge electrode and the counter electrode is short, corona discharge shifts to arc discharge. Thus, when a transition from corona discharge to arc discharge occurs, the discharge electrode and the counter electrode are damaged, and in some cases, corona discharge cannot be generated, and ions cannot be generated.

Therefore, the inventors studied to limit the current flowing in the discharge circuit by further increasing the resistance value of the resistor arranged in the discharge circuit. However, if the resistance value of the resistor arranged in the discharge circuit is increased, it becomes impossible to secure a current necessary for corona discharge, and sufficient ions cannot be generated.

An object of the present disclosure is to stably generate corona discharge between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode and to prevent arc discharge generated in the discharge electrode.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an ion generator includes a reference electrode, a discharge electrode disposed apart from the reference electrode, and a voltage that generates a corona discharge between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode. And generating a corona discharge in the discharge electrode to generate ions. The ion generator includes an arc electrode disposed apart from the reference electrode, and generates an arc discharge preferentially at the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.

According to such a configuration, since the arc electrode disposed apart from the reference electrode is provided and arc discharge is preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode, the discharge electrode and the reference electrode Corona discharge can be stably generated in the meantime, and arc discharge generated in the discharge electrode can be prevented.

Note that reference numerals with parentheses attached to each component and the like indicate an example of a correspondence relationship between the component and the like and specific components described in the embodiments described later.

It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is the figure which showed the distance of a discharge electrode and a 1st reference electrode, and the distance of the electrode for arcs, and a 2nd reference electrode. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 4th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 5th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 6th Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the control part which concerns on 6th Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the control part which concerns on 7th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 8th Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the control part which concerns on 8th Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the control part which concerns on 9th Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the control part which concerns on 10th, 11th embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 12th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 13th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 14th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 15th Embodiment. It is a figure showing the shape of each electrode of the ion generator concerning 15th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 16th Embodiment. It is a flowchart of the control part of the ion generator which concerns on 16th Embodiment. It is a schematic block diagram of the ion generator which concerns on 16th Embodiment. It is a figure showing the power supply voltage of the ion generator which concerns on 17th Embodiment, the state of the electrode switch for arcs, the measured current value, and the presence or absence of the arc. It is a flowchart of the control part of the ion generator which concerns on 17th Embodiment. It is a figure showing the test object of the ion generator which concerns on 17th Embodiment, the state of a switch, and an electric current measured value. It is a figure showing the shape of each electrode of the ion generator concerning 18th Embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same or equivalent parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings.

(First embodiment)
The ion generator according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In order to improve comfort, this ion generator is used, for example, in an ion wind sending device that ejects a wind containing ions toward the face of a vehicle occupant. The ion generator includes a discharge electrode 10, an arc electrode 20, a reference electrode 30, and a power source 40. The reference electrode 30 has a first reference electrode 31 and a second reference electrode 32.

The discharge electrode 10 is an electrode for generating corona discharge between the reference electrode 31 and is disposed apart from the reference electrode 31. The discharge electrode 10 has a needle shape, and the tip portion 10a is arranged so as to face the reference electrode 31 side. The discharge electrode 10 is arranged such that the shortest distance between the tip 10a and the reference electrode 31 is a predetermined distance D1.

The arc electrode 20 is an electrode for generating an arc discharge between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32, and is disposed apart from the reference electrode 32. The arc electrode 20 is arranged side by side with the discharge electrode 10 with respect to the reference electrode 30. The arc electrode 20 has a needle shape, and is arranged so that the tip 20a faces the reference electrode 32 side.

The arc electrode 20 is disposed such that the shortest distance between the tip 20a and the reference electrode 32 is a predetermined distance D2 shorter than the predetermined distance D1. The arc electrode 20 and the discharge electrode 10 are connected to the negative terminal of the power source 40 via the connection line 2.

The discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 of the present embodiment have the same shape. That is, the angles of the tip 10a of the discharge electrode 10 and the tip 20a of the arc electrode 20 are the same.

The reference electrodes 31 and 32 each have a plate shape and are connected to the positive terminal of the power source 40 via the connection line 3. The reference electrodes 31 and 32 are arranged in parallel. The first reference electrode 31 is disposed so as to correspond to the discharge electrode 10, and the reference electrode 32 is disposed so as to correspond to the arc electrode 20. The discharge electrode 10, the arc electrode 20, and the reference electrodes 31, 32 are each fixed to a support member (not shown).

The power supply 40 outputs a predetermined voltage from the positive terminal and the negative terminal. The power source 40 can output a DC voltage of about 6 kV or less. The power supply 40 can change the output voltage in accordance with an operation of an operation unit (not shown) and a control signal input from the outside. The power source 40 of the present embodiment outputs a predetermined voltage (for example, −5 kV) that causes the discharge electrode 10 to generate corona discharge.

Next, the discharge will be described. Discharge is a phenomenon in which an electric current flows as a result of a dielectric breakdown occurring in a gas existing between electrodes due to a potential difference applied between the electrodes, whereby electrons are emitted. The corona discharge is a discharge that is continuously generated when a non-uniform electric field is generated around the needle-like electrode. An arc discharge is a discharge mainly for thermionic emission and is accompanied by strong light emission.

The present ion generator induces ions by causing corona discharge in the discharge electrode 10. However, when the current flowing through the discharge circuit increases, such as when the environment becomes a high humidity environment or when the distance between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 is shortened due to foreign matter adhering to the discharge electrode 10, arc discharge from corona discharge It will move to. Once an arc discharge occurs in the discharge electrode 10, the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 are damaged, and in some cases, corona discharge cannot be performed to generate ions.

Therefore, the ion generator of the present embodiment includes an arc electrode 20 arranged side by side with the discharge electrode 10, and generates an arc discharge in the arc electrode 20 in preference to the discharge electrode 10. Avoid the arcing that occurs.

Next, the operation of this ion generator will be described.

When a predetermined output voltage (for example, −5 kV) is output from the power supply 40, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 and between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32. Applied. As a result, a strong electric field is generated in the vicinity of the distal end portion 10 a of the discharge electrode 10, and corona discharge is generated around the discharge electrode 10. Similarly, corona discharge also occurs between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32.

And, by the generation of corona discharge, the air around the discharge electrode 10 is ionized and air ions are generated. Specifically, a part of the gas around the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 is ionized to generate positive and negative ions.

When the discharge electrode 10 is a cathode as in the present ion generator, negative ions move to the reference electrode 31 side by an electric field formed between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31. In the process, the surrounding neutral air molecules are involved to generate ionic wind.

Here, the voltage between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is the same as the predetermined voltage between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31, and the distance D <b> 2 between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32. Is configured to be shorter than the distance D1 between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31.

That is, since the impedance of the second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is lower than the impedance of the first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31, The arc discharge is more likely to occur than the discharge electrode 10. In other words, the arc electrode 20 is set to have a low arc withstand voltage determined by the impedance between the electrodes and the like with respect to the discharge electrode 10, and arc discharge is likely to occur.

For this reason, for example, when an environment in which arc discharge is likely to occur, such as when the environment becomes a high humidity environment or when the distance between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 is shortened due to adhesion of foreign matter, the arc is applied to the discharge electrode 10. Before the discharge occurs, arc discharge occurs in the arc electrode 20. Therefore, arc discharge of the discharge electrode 10 is avoided.

During the period when arc discharge is occurring in the arc electrode 20, a large current flows between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32, so corona discharge is performed between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31. However, when the arc discharge in the arc electrode 20 is completed, the corona discharge is resumed between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 to perform ion emission.

As described above, the present ion generator generates a corona discharge in the discharge electrode 10 between the reference electrode 30, the discharge electrode 10 disposed away from the reference electrode 30, and the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 30. And a power source 40 that outputs a voltage to be generated. Then, ions are generated by generating corona discharge in the discharge electrode 10. The present ion generator further includes an arc electrode 20 disposed away from the reference electrode 30, and causes the arc discharge to be preferentially generated in the arc electrode 20 over the discharge electrode 10.

According to such a configuration, the arc electrode 20 is provided apart from the reference electrode 30, and arc discharge is preferentially generated in the arc electrode 20 over the discharge electrode 10, and therefore, between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode. Corona discharge can be generated stably, and arc discharge generated at the discharge electrode can be prevented.

In this ion generator, the power supply 40 outputs a predetermined voltage between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 in addition to the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31. The distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is configured to be shorter than the distance between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31.

As a result, the impedance of the second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is lower than the impedance of the first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31. The arc discharge is more likely to occur than the discharge electrode 10, and the arc discharge can be preferentially generated in the arc electrode 20 over the discharge electrode 10.

(Second Embodiment)
An ion generator according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The ion generator of the present embodiment further includes a distance adjusting mechanism 50 that adjusts the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 31 as compared with the ion wind sending device of the first embodiment. Is different.

The distance adjusting mechanism 50 adjusts the position of the arc electrode 20. The distance adjusting mechanism 50 includes a cylindrical member (not shown) that supports the arc electrode 20 so as to be slidable in the axial direction. The operator can slide the arc electrode 20 supported by the cylindrical member in the axial direction to move the position of the arc electrode 20 closer to or away from the reference electrode 32. .

Thus, since the ion generator of this embodiment has the distance adjustment mechanism 50 which adjusts the distance of the electrode 20 for arcs, and the reference | standard electrode 31, distance D2 of the electrode 20 for arcs and the reference | standard electrode 32 is provided. Can be easily adjusted, and conditions for generating arc discharge in the arc electrode 20 can be easily changed. For example, when the tip 20 a of the arc electrode 20 is worn by arc discharge, the tip 20 a of the arc electrode 20 is easily brought close to the reference electrode 32 and the arc 20 is preferentially arced over the discharge electrode 10. The discharge can be adjusted to occur.

In the present embodiment, the same effect that is obtained from the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained as in the first embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
An ion generator according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The ion generator of the second embodiment includes the distance adjustment mechanism 50 that adjusts the position of the arc electrode 20, but the ion generator of the present embodiment replaces the distance adjustment mechanism 50 with the reference electrode 32. Is provided with a distance adjusting mechanism 51 for adjusting the position.

The distance adjustment mechanism 51 adjusts the position of the reference electrode 32. Specifically, the distance adjusting mechanism 51 is configured by a support member (not shown) that supports the reference electrode 32 so as to be movable in the axial direction of the arc electrode 20. The support member is configured to sandwich the reference electrode 32.

The operator can slide the reference electrode 32 supported by the support member in the axial direction of the arc electrode 20 to move the position of the arc electrode 20 closer to or away from the reference electrode 32. ing.

Thus, since the ion generator of this embodiment has the distance adjusting mechanism 51 that adjusts the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 31, the distance D2 between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is provided. Can be easily adjusted, and conditions for generating arc discharge in the arc electrode 20 can be easily changed.

In the present embodiment, the same effect that is obtained from the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained as in the first embodiment.

(Fourth embodiment)
The ion generator which concerns on 4th Embodiment is demonstrated using FIG. The ion generator of the present embodiment further suppresses the current flowing through the discharge electrode 10 in the first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 as compared with the ion wind sending device of the first embodiment. The first resistor 61 is arranged, and the second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is provided with a second resistor 62 that suppresses the current flowing through the arc electrode 20. In the ion generator of this embodiment, the distance D1 between the discharge electrode 10 and the first reference electrode 31 is equal to the distance D2 between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32.

The first resistor 61 is disposed between the negative electrode terminal of the power source 40 and the discharge electrode 10. The second resistor 62 is disposed between the negative electrode terminal of the power supply 40 and the arc electrode 20.

The voltage applied to the first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 is the same as the voltage applied to the second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32.

The resistance value of the second resistor 62 of the present embodiment is configured to be smaller than that of the first resistor 61, and the impedance of the second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is the discharge electrode 10. And the impedance of the first discharge circuit composed of the reference electrode 31 is lower. For this reason, the arc electrode 20 is more susceptible to arc discharge than the discharge electrode 10. In other words, the arc electrode 20 is set to have a low arc withstand voltage determined by the impedance between the electrodes and the like with respect to the discharge electrode 10, and arc discharge is likely to occur.

Thus, in the present embodiment, since the resistance value of the second resistor 62 is configured to be smaller than that of the first resistor 61, arc discharge is generated in the arc electrode 20 in preference to the discharge electrode 10. It is configured as follows.

In the present embodiment, the same effect that is obtained from the configuration common to the first embodiment can be obtained as in the first embodiment.

(Fifth embodiment)
An ion generator according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the ion generator of the fourth embodiment, the second resistor 62 has a fixed resistance, whereas in the ion generator of the present embodiment, the second resistor 62 has a variable resistance. The point is different.

The second resistor 62 has a knob (not shown), and its resistance value is changed by rotating this knob.

Therefore, for example, when the tip portion 20a of the arc electrode 20 is worn by arc discharge, the operator can easily change the resistance value of the second resistor 62, and arc discharge is applied to the arc electrode 20. Conditions to be generated can be easily changed.

(Sixth embodiment)
An ion generator according to a sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The ion generator of this embodiment is further provided with a current measuring unit 71, a control unit 72, and a distance adjusting mechanism 70 in addition to the ion generator of the first embodiment.

The current measuring unit 71 measures the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 and outputs a signal corresponding to the measured current to the control unit 72. The current measuring unit 71 can be configured using a Rogowski coil type current sensor, a Hall element type current sensor, or the like.

The control unit 72 is configured as a computer including a CPU, RAM, ROM, flash memory, I / O, and the like, and the CPU performs various processes according to programs stored in the ROM. Note that the flash memory of the control unit 72 corresponds to a storage unit. These CPU, RAM, ROM, and flash memory are non-transitional physical storage media.

The distance adjusting mechanism 70 adjusts the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32. The distance adjusting mechanism 70 of the present embodiment includes a shaft that supports the arc electrode 20, a cylindrical member (not shown) that supports the shaft so as to be slidable in the axial direction, and a rack formed on a side surface of the shaft. It has a pinion that engages and an electric actuator (none of which is shown) that rotationally drives the pinion. When the electric actuator is driven by the controller 72, the pinion rotates and the shaft moves in the axial direction.

The controller 72 of the ion generator of the present embodiment, when the ion generator is in an operating state, specifies a current flowing through the arc electrode 20 based on a signal output from the current measuring unit 71 for each fixed period Δt. Perform specific processing. Further, in parallel with the current specifying process, the control unit 72 determines whether or not the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, and the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is the threshold value. When it determines with it being above, the process which controls the distance adjustment mechanism 70 is implemented so that the distance of the electrode 20 for arcs and the reference electrode 32 may be lengthened more.

FIG. 8 shows a flowchart of this process. The control unit 72 periodically performs the process shown in FIG. Note that each control step in the flowchart of each drawing constitutes various function realizing means possessed by the control unit 72. At the start of this process, the distance adjusting mechanism 70 is set so that the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is shorter than the distance between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31.

First, the control unit 72 specifies the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 in S100. Specifically, the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is specified by integrating the period Δt during which the current flows through the arc electrode 20 with respect to the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 specified by the current specifying process. .

Next, in S102, it is determined whether or not the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. Here, when the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is less than the threshold value, the present process is terminated.

If the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is adjusted in S104. Specifically, the distance adjusting mechanism 70 is controlled so as to shorten the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32. In other words, the electric actuator of the distance adjusting mechanism 70 is controlled so that the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes shorter. Next, in S106, the current integrated value is reset, and this process ends.

As described above, the present ion generator includes the current measuring unit 71 that measures the current flowing through the arc electrode 20. Further, the present ion generator determines whether or not the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is equal to or greater than a threshold based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit 71 (S100), and the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 When it is determined that the integrated value is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the distance adjusting mechanism 70 is controlled to shorten the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 (S104).

Therefore, for example, even when the distal end portion 20a of the arc electrode 20 is worn due to long-term use and the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes longer, the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 Therefore, arc discharge can be preferentially generated in the arc electrode 20 over the discharge electrode 10.

(Seventh embodiment)
The ion generator which concerns on 7th Embodiment is demonstrated using FIG. The configuration of the ion generator of the present embodiment is the same as that of the sixth embodiment shown in FIG. The ion generator of this embodiment differs in the process of the control part 72 compared with the ion generator of the said 6th Embodiment.

The control unit 72 of the ion generator of the present embodiment determines whether or not arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode 20 based on the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 and determines that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode 20. If so, a process for shortening the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is performed. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the control unit 72 of the present embodiment. When the ion generator is in an operating state, the control unit 72 performs the process shown in FIG.

First, the controller 72 specifies the voltage X between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 in S200. The voltage X between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 can be specified based on a control signal output to the power supply 40.

Next, in S202, the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is specified. The current flowing through the arc electrode 20 can be specified based on the signal output from the current measuring unit 71.

Next, it is determined whether or not arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode 20 based on whether or not the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value. Here, when the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is less than a predetermined threshold value, the present process is terminated.

Further, when arc discharge occurs in the arc electrode 20, a large current flows through the arc electrode 20, and the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, in S 204, the arc electrode 20 In step S206, the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is adjusted. Specifically, the distance adjusting mechanism 70 is controlled so as to make the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 longer. That is, the electric actuator of the distance adjusting mechanism 70 is controlled so that the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes longer, and this process is terminated.

Therefore, for example, even when the humidity around the ion generator becomes high and arc discharge frequently occurs in the arc electrode 20, the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is greater. Since it is controlled to be longer, the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 can be changed to a distance suitable for the humidity around the ion generator.

(Eighth embodiment)
An ion generator according to an eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. Compared with the ion generator of the sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the ion generator of the present embodiment includes a second resistor 62 a configured by a variable resistor instead of the distance adjusting mechanism 70. Different points. The control part 72 of the ion generator of this embodiment implements the process of S300 of FIG. 11 instead of the process of S104 of FIG.

The second resistor 62 a is connected to the arc electrode 20 and limits the current flowing through the arc electrode 20. The resistance value of the second resistor 62a changes according to a control signal from the control unit 72.

When the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is less than the threshold value in the determination in S102, the control unit 72 ends the present process without performing the process in S300.

When the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the second resistor 62a is set so that the potential difference between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes larger in S300. Adjust the resistance value. Specifically, the variable resistor constituting the second resistor 62a is controlled so as to make the resistance value of the second resistor 62a smaller, and the process proceeds to S106.

Therefore, for example, even when the distal end portion 20a of the arc electrode 20 is worn due to long-term use and the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes longer, the resistance value of the second resistor 62a is increased. Since it is made smaller, arc discharge can be preferentially generated in the arc electrode 20 than the discharge electrode 10.

(Ninth embodiment)
The ion generator which concerns on 9th Embodiment is demonstrated using FIG. The configuration of the ion generator of this embodiment is the same as that of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. Moreover, the control part 72 of the ion generator of this embodiment implements the process of S400 of FIG. 12 instead of the process of S206 of FIG.

When the arc discharge occurs in the arc electrode 20, a large current flows through the arc electrode 20, and the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 72 causes the arc to flow in S204. It is determined that arc discharge has occurred in working electrode 20, and in S400, the resistance value of second resistor 62a is adjusted so that the potential difference between arcing electrode 20 and reference electrode 32 becomes smaller. Specifically, the second resistor 62a is controlled to increase the resistance value of the second resistor 62a, and the process proceeds to S106.

Therefore, for example, the resistance value of the second resistor 62a is increased even when the ambient humidity of the ion generator becomes high and arc discharge frequently occurs in the arc electrode 20. Therefore, the resistance value of the second resistor 62a can be changed to a condition suitable for the humidity around the ion generator.

If the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode 20 is less than the threshold value, the process ends without performing the process of S400.

(10th Embodiment)
The ion generator which concerns on 10th Embodiment is demonstrated using FIG. The configuration of the ion generator of this embodiment is the same as that of the ion generator of the sixth embodiment. The ion generator of this embodiment differs in the process of the control part 72 compared with the ion generator of the said 6th Embodiment. FIG. 13 shows a flowchart of the control unit 72 of the ion generator of this embodiment. The control unit 72 periodically performs the process shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is shorter than the distance between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 by the distance adjusting mechanism 70.

The control unit 72 first controls the output voltage of the power supply 40 to the predetermined voltage X in S500. Specifically, a control signal is output to the power supply 40 so that the output voltage of the power supply 40 becomes the predetermined voltage X.

Next, in S502, the control unit 72 determines whether or not the measurement value of the current measurement unit 71 is greater than the threshold value IA. Here, when the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is equal to or less than the threshold value IA, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is increased in S504. Specifically, if the output voltage of the power source 40 before the increase is a predetermined voltage X and the increased voltage is Δx, the output voltage of the power source 40 is increased so that X = X + Δx, and the process returns to S502. The increased voltage Δx can be set to 0.1 kV, for example.

Therefore, when the output voltage of the power source 40 before the increase is 4.5 kV, the increased voltage Δx = 0.1 kV is increased, and the output voltage of the power source 40 is increased to 4.6 kV.

In S502, it is determined again whether the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is larger than the threshold value IA. When the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is equal to or less than the threshold value IA, the output voltage of the power source 40 is increased again in S504.

繰 り 返 し By repeatedly performing such processing, the output voltage of the power supply 40 gradually increases. When arc discharge occurs in the arc electrode 20 and it is determined in S502 that the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is larger than the threshold value IA, the output voltage of the power source 40 is decreased in S506. Specifically, assuming that the output voltage of the power supply 40 before the decrease is a predetermined voltage X and the voltage corresponding to the decrease is Δx, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is decreased so that X = X−Δx, and this process is terminated. Note that the voltage Δx for the decrease can be set to 0.1 kV, for example.

Therefore, when the output voltage of the power source 40 before the decrease is 4.7 kV, the voltage Δx = 0.1 kV corresponding to the decrease is decreased and the output voltage of the power source 40 is decreased to 4.6 kV. The output voltage of the power supply 40 is maintained until arc discharge occurs in the arc electrode 20 and the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 becomes larger than the threshold value IA.

As described above, the present ion generator includes the current measuring unit 71 that measures the current flowing through the arc electrode 20. Further, the output voltage of the power source 40 is increased stepwise until it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode 20 based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit 71, and the arc voltage is determined based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit. When it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the electrode, control is performed so as to reduce the output voltage of the power source.

Therefore, it is possible to maintain the potential difference between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 at the maximum voltage that does not cause arc discharge at the discharge electrode 10, and to realize the generation of ions by corona discharge with maximum efficiency. Is possible.

(Eleventh embodiment)
An ion generator according to an eleventh embodiment will be described. The configuration of the ion generator of the present embodiment is the same as the ion generator of the eighth embodiment. Further, the processing of the control unit 72 of the present embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG. The control unit 72 periodically performs the process shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the resistance value of the second resistor 62 constituting the variable resistor is made smaller than the resistance value of the first resistor 61.

Thus, the ion generator of the eighth embodiment has the same configuration, and the resistance value of the second resistor 62 constituting the variable resistor is configured to be smaller than the resistance value of the first resistor 61. The processing of the control unit 72 can also be performed in the same manner as that shown in FIG.

According to this, as in the tenth embodiment, the potential difference between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 can be maintained at the maximum voltage that does not cause an arc discharge in the discharge electrode 10, and corona discharge is caused. Ion generation can be achieved with maximum efficiency.

(Twelfth embodiment)
An ion generator according to a twelfth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In each of the above embodiments, the reference electrode 30 is configured by the two reference electrodes 31 and 32. However, in the present embodiment, the number of the reference electrodes 30 is one. That is, the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 are arranged corresponding to one reference electrode 30.

As described above, the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 can be arranged corresponding to the reference electrode 30 in one.

(13th Embodiment)
An ion generator according to a thirteenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In each of the embodiments described above, the angles of the tip portion 10a of the discharge electrode 10 and the tip portion 20a of the arc electrode 20 are the same. On the other hand, the tip 20a of the arc electrode 20 of the present embodiment has an acute angle with respect to the tip 10a of the discharge electrode 10.

In this way, by forming the tip portion 20a of the arc electrode 20 at an acute angle with respect to the tip portion 10a of the discharge electrode 10, arc discharge is preferentially generated in the arc electrode 20 over the discharge electrode 10. Is possible.

(14th Embodiment)
An ion generator according to a fourteenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The tip portion 10a of the discharge electrode 10 of the present embodiment is rounded.

Thus, it is possible to cause arc discharge preferentially to the arc electrode 20 over the discharge electrode 10 by rounding the tip portion 10a of the discharge electrode 10.

(Fifteenth embodiment)
An ion generator according to the fifteenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In the first embodiment, the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 each having a needle shape and the reference electrodes 31 and 32 having a plate shape are provided. However, the ion generator of the present embodiment includes the discharge electrode 10. The arc electrode 20 and the reference electrodes 31 and 32 are each composed of a conductive plate member (for example, stainless steel). Moreover, the ion generator of this embodiment has the discharge electrode 10 which has five acute angle parts, and the electrode 20 for arcs which has one acute angle part. The discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 are formed by cutting or shearing the same flat plate into a sawtooth shape.

The discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 are physically and electrically connected to each other. The discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 have the same plate thickness of about 0.5 mm. Further, the tip of the arc electrode 20 has an acute angle with respect to the tip of the discharge electrode 10.

As described above, the discharge electrode 10, the arc electrode 20, and the reference electrodes 31, 32 are each composed of a conductive plate member. For this reason, the discharge electrode 10, the arc electrode 20, and the reference electrodes 31, 32 can be efficiently formed, and productivity can be improved.

Further, since the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 are integrally formed, the number of parts can be reduced as compared with the case where the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 are configured as separate bodies, and further the production. Can be improved.

(Sixteenth Embodiment) An ion generator according to a sixteenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The ion generator of this embodiment includes an arc power switch 73 for cutting off the application of voltage between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32. Specifically, the arc power switch 73 is provided between the negative terminal of the power supply 40 and the distance adjusting mechanism 70.

The arc power switch 73 is switched to an on state or an off state in accordance with a control signal from the control unit 72.

Next, processing of the control unit 72 of the ion generator of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The control unit 72 of the present embodiment is different from the process shown in FIG. 13 in that S508 is performed after step S506.

The control unit 72 periodically performs the process shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is shorter than the distance between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 by the distance adjusting mechanism 70.

The control unit 72 first controls the arc power switch 73 to be in the ON state and controls the output voltage of the power source 40 to the predetermined voltage X in S500. Specifically, a control signal is output to the power supply 40 so that the output voltage of the power supply 40 becomes the predetermined voltage X.

Next, in S502, the control unit 72 determines whether or not the measurement value of the current measurement unit 71 is greater than the threshold value IA. Here, when the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is equal to or less than the threshold value IA, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is increased in S504. Specifically, if the output voltage of the power source 40 before the increase is a predetermined voltage X and the increased voltage is Δx, the output voltage of the power source 40 is increased so that X = X + Δx, and the process returns to S502. The increased voltage Δx can be set to 0.5 kV, for example.

For example, as shown in FIG. 21, when the output voltage of the power source 40 before the increase is 2 kV, the increased voltage Δx = 0.5 kV is increased and the output voltage of the power source 40 is increased to 2.5 kV. Increase to.

In S502, it is determined again whether the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is larger than the threshold value IA. When the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is equal to or less than the threshold value IA, the output voltage of the power source 40 is increased again in S504.

繰 り 返 し By repeatedly performing such processing, the output voltage of the power supply 40 gradually increases. For example, if the output voltage of the power source 40 before the increase is 2.5 kV, the increased voltage Δx = 0.5 kV is increased in S504 so that the output voltage of the power source 40 is 3.0 kV. increase.

If the output voltage of the power source 40 before the increase is 3.0 kV, the increased voltage Δx = 0.5 kV is increased in S504 to set the output voltage of the power source 40 to 3.5 kV. increase. Further, when the output voltage of the power source 40 before the increase is 3.5 kV, the increased voltage Δx = 0.5 kV is increased in S504, and the output voltage of the power source 40 is set to 4.0 kV. increase.

Here, when arc discharge occurs in the arc electrode 20 and it is determined in S502 that the measured value of the current measuring unit 71 is larger than the threshold value IA, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is decreased in S506. . Specifically, if the output voltage of the power source 40 before the decrease is a predetermined voltage X and the voltage corresponding to the decrease is Δx, the output voltage of the power source 40 is decreased so that X = X−Δx. For example, if the output voltage of the power supply 40 before the decrease is a predetermined voltage 4.0 kV and the decrease voltage is 0.5 kV, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is decreased to 3.5 kV.

Next, the controller 72 controls the arc power switch 73 to be turned off in S508. The control unit 72 controls the arc power switch 73 to be in the OFF state, and then causes corona discharge to occur in the discharge electrode 10 for a predetermined period in a state where the output voltage of the power source 40 is decreased in S506, and for a predetermined period. When elapses, this process is terminated.

Here, if the arc power switch 73 is not turned off in S508, a current may flow through the arc electrode 20 and the current flowing through the discharge electrode 10 may decrease. However, in S508, by controlling the arc power switch 73 to be in the OFF state, current does not flow to the arc electrode 20, so that it is possible to flow current to the discharge electrode 10 stably, and ions are It can be generated stably.

(17th Embodiment)
An ion generator according to the seventeenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. The ion generator of the present embodiment has three arc electrodes 21 to 23 as the arc electrode 20. Further, the ion generator of the present embodiment includes a selection switch 74 that switches voltage application at each of the arc electrodes 21 to 23.

The arc electrodes 21 to 23 each have a needle shape and are disposed to face the reference electrode 32.

The selection switch 74 selects the voltage output from the power supply 40 to be applied to any one of the plurality of arc electrodes. The selection switch 74 is disposed between the current measurement unit 71 and each of the arc electrodes 21 to 23. The selection switch 74 is switched by a control signal input from the control unit 72.

Next, processing of the control unit 72 of the ion generator of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The control part 72 of this embodiment implements the process shown in FIG. 23 regularly. In the present embodiment, the distance between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 is shorter than the distance between the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 by the distance adjusting mechanism 70.

First, in S600, the control unit 72 controls the arc power switch 73 to be turned on, and the selection switch is applied so that the output voltage of the power source 40 is applied to one of the arc electrodes 21 to 23. 74 is controlled. Here, the selection switch 74 is controlled so that the output voltage of the power source 40 is applied to the arc electrode 21. Further, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is controlled to a predetermined voltage X. Specifically, a control signal is output to the power supply 40 so that the output voltage of the power supply 40 becomes the predetermined voltage X for a predetermined time.

Next, the control unit 72 specifies the discharge current flowing through the arc electrode 21 based on the signal output from the current measurement unit 71 in S602. Next, in S604, the control unit 72 stores the current value specified in S602 in the flash memory.

Next, the control unit 72 determines whether or not the current values have been specified for all the arc electrodes 21 to 23.

Here, since the current value of the discharge current of the arc electrodes 22 to 23 is not specified, the determination in S606 is NO, and then, in S608, the output voltage of the power source 40 is applied to the arc electrode whose current value is not measured. The selection switch 74 is controlled so that is applied. Here, the selection switch 74 is controlled so that the output voltage of the power source 40 is applied to the arc electrode 22. Further, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is controlled to a predetermined voltage X. Specifically, a control signal is output to the power supply 40 so that the output voltage of the power supply 40 becomes the predetermined voltage X for a predetermined time, and the process returns to S602.

Next, the control unit 72 specifies the discharge current flowing through the arc electrode 21 based on the signal output from the current measurement unit 71 in S602. Next, in S604, the control unit 72 stores the current value specified in S602 in the flash memory.

Next, the control unit 72 determines whether or not the current value of the discharge current has been specified for all the arc electrodes 21 to 23.

Here, since the current value of the discharge current of the arc electrode 23 is not specified, the determination in S606 is NO, and the control unit 72 then determines that the output voltage of the power supply 40 is applied to the arc electrode 23 in S608. The selection switch 74 is controlled to be applied. Further, the output voltage of the power supply 40 is controlled to a predetermined voltage X. Specifically, a control signal is output to the power supply 40 so that the output voltage of the power supply 40 becomes the predetermined voltage X for a predetermined time.

As described above, when the control unit 72 specifies the current value of the discharge current in all the arc electrodes 21 to 23, the determination in S606 becomes YES, and then the control unit 72 determines the failure arc for S610. It is determined whether or not there is an electrode. Specifically, when the ratio of the current value of one of the arc electrodes 21 to 23 and the current value of the other electrode is larger than a predetermined threshold value, the control unit 72 determines the failure electrode. Judge that there is.

Specifically, it is determined whether or not the ratio between the current value of the arc electrode 21 and the current value of the arc electrode 22 is greater than a predetermined threshold value. Further, it is determined whether or not the ratio between the current value of the arc electrode 22 and the current value of the arc electrode 23 is greater than a predetermined threshold value. Further, it is determined whether or not the ratio between the current value of the arc electrode 21 and the current value of the arc electrode 23 is greater than a predetermined threshold value. Then, it is determined whether or not there is one in which the ratio between the current value of the arc electrode 21 and the current value of the arc electrode 22 is larger than a predetermined threshold value.

Here, if it is determined that there is a faulty arc electrode, the control unit 72 then specifies the faulty arc electrodes 21 to 23 in S612. When the arc electrodes 21 to 23 are worn and the distance from the reference electrode 32 is shortened, the current value of the discharge current decreases, so that it can be specified that the electrode having the smaller current value has failed. .

Next, in step S614, the control unit 72 excludes the faulty arc electrode from being used. Specifically, it is registered as a fault arc electrode in the flash memory of the control unit 72, and this process ends. Thereafter, the control unit 72 performs discharge control by excluding the fault arc electrode in the flash memory of the control unit 72.

If it is not determined in S610 that there is a faulty arc electrode, the control unit 72 ends this process without proceeding to S614.

As described above, the ion generator selects the plurality of arc electrodes 21 to 23 and the voltage output from the power source to be applied to any one of the plurality of arc electrodes 21 to 23. A selection switch 74; and a current measurement unit 71 for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrodes 21 to 23 selected by the selection switch 74.

As described above, since the plurality of arc electrodes 21 to 23 are provided, even if any of the plurality of arc electrodes 21 to 23 fails, arc discharge is generated by the other normal arc electrodes 21 to 23. Can be made. Further, it is possible to recognize whether or not a failure has occurred in any of the plurality of arc electrodes 21 to 23 based on the current measured by the current measuring unit 71.

Further, the ion generator sequentially switches the arc electrodes 21 to 23 selected by the selection switch 74 and stores the current value of the current flowing through the arc electrodes 21 to 23 measured by the current measuring unit 71 in the storage unit. A storage control unit is provided. In addition, the storage control unit includes a failure determination unit that determines whether there is a faulty arc electrode 21 to 23 based on the current value stored in the storage unit. Further, a limiting unit is provided that restricts the selection switch 74 from selecting the failed arc electrodes 21 to 23 when it is determined by the failure determination unit that there are failed arc electrodes 21 to 23.

Therefore, it is possible to limit the failure arc electrodes 21 to 23 from being selected by the selection switch 74 and to ensure reliability.

(Eighteenth Embodiment) An ion generator according to an eighteenth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the fifteenth embodiment, the discharge electrode 10, the arc electrode 20, and the reference electrodes 31, 32 are each composed of a conductive plate member (for example, stainless steel), and the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 are Are physically and electrically connected to each other.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the discharge electrode 10, the arc electrode 20, and the reference electrodes 31, 32 are the same in that each is formed of a conductive plate member (for example, stainless steel). The electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 are configured as separate bodies. Thus, the discharge electrode 10 and the arc electrode 20 can be configured as separate bodies.

(Other embodiments)
(1) Although the ion generator of each said embodiment does not have the housing | casing which accommodates the discharge electrode 10, the electrode 20 for arcs, and the reference electrodes 31 and 32, the discharge electrode 10, the electrode 20 for arcs, and a reference electrode You may provide the housing | casing which accommodates 31 and 32. FIG. Further, an injection port may be provided in the housing, and an ion wind containing ions generated by corona discharge may be injected from the injection port.

In this case, a rectangular wave pulse signal is output from the power source 40 to the first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 and the second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32, A vortex ring containing ions generated by corona discharge may be ejected from the mouth.

(2) Although the ion generator of each said embodiment showed the example which produces ion by generating corona discharge in the discharge electrode 10, it is equipped with the air blower which ventilates the produced | generated ion into the vehicle interior of a vehicle, Ions generated by generating corona discharge with a blower can be blown into the vehicle interior of the vehicle.

(3) In the eighth embodiment, the resistance value of the second resistor 62a is adjusted in S300 so that the potential difference between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes larger. You may comprise so that the output voltage of the power supply 40 may be enlarged so that the electric potential difference between the electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 may become larger.

(4) In the ninth embodiment, the resistance value of the second resistor 62a is adjusted in S400 so that the potential difference between the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes smaller. The output voltage of the power supply 40 may be further reduced so that the potential difference between the electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 becomes smaller.

(5) In each of the above embodiments, the arc electrode 20 and the discharge electrode 10 are connected to the negative terminal of the power supply 40, and the reference electrodes 31 and 32 are connected to the positive terminal of the power supply 40. On the other hand, the arc electrode 20 and the discharge electrode 10 may be connected to the positive terminal of the power source 40, and the reference electrodes 31 and 32 may be connected to the negative terminal of the power source 40.

(6) In the tenth and eleventh embodiments, a power source that outputs a voltage to the discharge electrode 10 and the reference electrode 31 and a power source that outputs a voltage to the arc electrode 20 and the reference electrode 32 may be provided separately. Good.

(7) In the fifteenth embodiment, the discharge electrode 10, the arc electrode 20, and the reference electrode 30 are each composed of a conductive plate member, but at least the discharge electrode 10, the arc electrode 20, and the reference electrode 30 are included. One can also be constituted by a conductive plate-like member.

Note that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be changed as appropriate. Further, the above embodiments are not irrelevant to each other, and can be combined as appropriate unless the combination is clearly impossible. In each of the above-described embodiments, it is needless to say that elements constituting the embodiment are not necessarily indispensable except for the case where it is clearly indicated that the element is essential and the case where the element is clearly considered essential in principle. Yes. Further, in each of the above embodiments, when numerical values such as the number, numerical value, quantity, range, etc. of the constituent elements of the embodiment are mentioned, it is clearly limited to a specific number when clearly indicated as essential and in principle. The number is not limited to the specific number except for the case. In each of the above embodiments, when referring to the material, shape, positional relationship, etc. of the constituent elements, etc., unless otherwise specified, or in principle limited to a specific material, shape, positional relationship, etc. The material, shape, positional relationship, etc. are not limited.

(Summary)
According to the first aspect shown in a part or all of each of the above embodiments, the present ion generator includes a reference electrode, a discharge electrode arranged away from the reference electrode, and a discharge electrode and a reference electrode. And a power source that outputs a voltage for generating a corona discharge in the discharge electrode. Then, ions are generated by generating corona discharge in the discharge electrode. The present ion generator further includes an arc electrode disposed apart from the reference electrode, and causes arc discharge to be preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.

According to the second aspect, the power source outputs a predetermined voltage between the arc electrode and the reference electrode in addition to the discharge electrode and the reference electrode, and the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode is The distance between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode is shorter.

As a result, the impedance of the second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode and the reference electrode is lower than the impedance of the first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode and the reference electrode. Therefore, arc discharge is more likely to occur, and arc discharge can be preferentially generated in the arc electrode than the discharge electrode.

Further, according to the third aspect, the output of the power source until it is determined that an arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit and the current measurement unit that measures the current flowing through the arc electrode. A voltage increase unit that increases the voltage stepwise, and further, when it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit, the output voltage of the power supply is decreased. The voltage control part to control is provided.

Therefore, the potential difference between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode can be maintained at the maximum voltage that does not cause arc discharge at the discharge electrode, and the generation of ions by corona discharge can be realized with maximum efficiency. is there.

Further, according to the fourth aspect, a distance adjusting mechanism for adjusting the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode is provided. Therefore, the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode can be easily adjusted, and the conditions for generating arc discharge in the arc electrode can be changed.

Further, according to the fifth aspect, the current measuring unit that measures the current flowing through the arc electrode, and whether the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit is equal to or greater than a threshold value. A current integrated value determination unit. Further, a distance control that controls the distance adjustment mechanism to shorten the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode when the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode is determined to be greater than or equal to the threshold value by the current integrated value determination unit. And a section.

Therefore, for example, even when the tip of the arc electrode wears out due to long-term use and the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode becomes longer, the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode becomes shorter. Therefore, arc discharge can be preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.

According to the sixth aspect, a current measuring unit that measures the current flowing through the arc electrode, and an arc determination unit that determines whether or not arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit And. In addition, when the arc determination unit determines that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode, a distance control unit that controls the distance adjusting mechanism to increase the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode is provided.

Therefore, for example, even when the humidity around the ion generator becomes high and arc discharge frequently occurs in the arc electrode, the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode 32 becomes longer. Therefore, the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode can be changed to a distance suitable for the humidity around the ion generator.

According to a seventh aspect, the first resistor is arranged in series with the first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode and the reference electrode and limits the current flowing through the discharge electrode, and the first resistor composed of the arc electrode and the reference electrode. And a second resistor that is arranged in series with the two-discharge circuit and restricts a current flowing through the arc electrode. The power source outputs a predetermined voltage between the arc electrode and the reference electrode in addition to the discharge electrode and the reference electrode, and the resistance value of the second resistor is smaller than the resistance value of the first resistor. As a result, arc discharge is preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.

Thus, by making the resistance value of the second resistor smaller than the resistance value of the first resistor, arc discharge can be preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.

According to the eighth aspect, a current measuring unit that measures a current flowing through the arc electrode and an output of the power source until it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit. A voltage increase unit that increases the voltage stepwise. In addition, when it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit, a voltage control unit is provided for controlling the output voltage of the power source to be lowered.

Therefore, the potential difference between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode can be maintained at the maximum voltage that does not cause arc discharge at the discharge electrode, and the generation of ions by corona discharge can be realized with maximum efficiency. is there.

Further, according to the ninth aspect, the second resistor is a variable resistor capable of changing a resistance value. In this way, the second resistor can also be configured as a variable resistor whose resistance value can be changed.

Further, according to the tenth aspect, the current measuring unit for measuring the current flowing through the arc electrode is provided. Further, based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit, it is determined whether or not the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode is equal to or greater than a threshold, and the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode is determined to be equal to or greater than the threshold. In this case, the resistance value of the variable resistor constituting the second resistor is controlled to be smaller.

Therefore, for example, even when the tip of the arc electrode wears out due to long-term use and the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode becomes longer, the resistance value of the second resistor is made smaller. The arc discharge can be preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.

In addition, according to the eleventh aspect, there is provided a current measuring unit for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode. Further, it is determined whether or not arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit, and when it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode, the variable resistance constituting the second resistor is determined. Control to increase the resistance value.

For example, even when the ambient humidity of the ion generator becomes high and arc discharge frequently occurs in the arc electrode, the resistance value of the second resistor is made smaller. The resistance value of the resistor can be changed to a condition suitable for the humidity around the ion generator.

Further, according to the twelfth aspect, each of the discharge electrode and the arc electrode has a needle-like tip portion, the tip portion is disposed toward the reference electrode, and the tip portion of the arc electrode is The angle is more acute than the tip of the electrode.

Thus, by configuring the tip of the arc electrode to have an acute angle with respect to the tip of the discharge electrode, it is possible to preferentially cause arc discharge to the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.

Further, according to the thirteenth aspect, the reference electrode has a first reference electrode arranged corresponding to the discharge electrode, and a second reference electrode arranged corresponding to the discharge electrode.

Thus, the reference electrode can also be configured with a first reference electrode arranged corresponding to the discharge electrode and a second reference electrode arranged corresponding to the discharge electrode.

Further, according to the fourteenth aspect, at least one of the discharge electrode, the arc electrode, and the reference electrode is composed of a conductive plate member.

It is possible to efficiently form at least one of the discharge electrode, the arc electrode and the reference electrode by constituting at least one of the discharge electrode, the arc electrode and the reference electrode with a conductive plate-like member. , Productivity can be improved.

Further, according to the fifteenth aspect, the ion generator includes an arc electrode switch for interrupting voltage application between the arc electrode and the reference electrode.

Therefore, when corona discharge is stably generated between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode, a current flows between the arc electrode and the reference electrode, and the discharge current between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode. Can be prevented from decreasing.

Further, according to the sixteenth aspect, the ion generator includes a current measuring unit that measures a current flowing through the arc electrode. Moreover, the voltage increase part which increases the output voltage of a power supply in steps until it determines with arc discharge having arisen in the electrode for arcs based on the measurement result of an electric current measurement part is provided. Moreover, when it determines with arc discharge having arisen in the electrode for arc based on the measurement result of an electric current measurement part, the voltage control part which controls to reduce the output voltage of a power supply is provided. Further, when the voltage control unit is controlled to lower the output voltage of the power source, a voltage application blocking unit that controls the arc electrode switch so as to block the application of the voltage between the arc electrode and the reference electrode, I have.

As described above, the voltage increasing unit gradually increases the output voltage of the power source until it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit, and the voltage control unit performs the current measurement. When it is determined that an arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the head, the output voltage of the power supply is controlled to be lowered, so that no arc discharge occurs between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode. Since voltage can be applied, ion generation efficiency can be increased.

In addition, the voltage application cutoff unit controls the arc electrode switch to cut off the voltage application between the arc electrode and the reference electrode when the voltage control unit controls the output voltage of the power supply to decrease. The discharge between the arc electrode and the reference electrode can be prevented, and the ion generation efficiency can be further increased.

According to a seventeenth aspect, the ion generator includes a plurality of arc electrodes, and a selection switch that selects a voltage output from the power source to be applied to any one of the plurality of arc electrodes. It is equipped with. And a current measuring unit that measures a current flowing through the arc electrode selected by the selection switch.

Thus, since a plurality of arc electrodes are provided, even if any of the plurality of arc electrodes fails, arc discharge can be caused by another normal arc electrode. Further, it is possible to recognize whether or not a failure has occurred in any of the plurality of arc electrodes based on the current measured by the current measuring unit.

According to the eighteenth aspect, the ion generator sequentially switches the arc electrode selected by the selection switch, and stores the current value of the current flowing through the arc electrode measured by the current measurement unit in the storage unit. A storage control unit is provided. In addition, the storage control unit includes a failure determination unit that determines whether there is a broken arc electrode based on the current value stored in the storage unit. And a limiting unit configured to limit the selection of the failed arc electrode by the selection switch when it is determined by the failure determination unit that there is a failed arc electrode.

Therefore, it is possible to restrict the selection of the faulty arc electrode so that the selection switch does not select it, thereby ensuring reliability.

The process of S100 corresponds to the current integrated value determination unit, the process of S104 corresponds to the distance control unit, the process of S204 corresponds to the arc determination unit, the process of S206 corresponds to the distance control unit, S300, The process of S400 corresponds to a resistance control unit, the processes of S502 and S504 correspond to a voltage increase unit, and S506 corresponds to a voltage control unit. S508 corresponds to a voltage application cut-off unit, S602 to S608 correspond to a storage control unit, S610 corresponds to a failure determination unit, and S604 corresponds to a restriction unit.

Claims (18)

1. A reference electrode (30);
   A discharge electrode (10) spaced apart from the reference electrode;
   A power source (40) that outputs a voltage for generating a corona discharge in the discharge electrode between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode;
   An ion generator for generating ions by generating the corona discharge in the discharge electrode,
   An arc electrode (20) disposed away from the reference electrode;
   An ion generator that causes arc discharge to be preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode.
2. The power source outputs a predetermined voltage between the arc electrode and the reference electrode, in addition to the discharge electrode and the reference electrode,
   The arc discharge is preferentially generated in the arc electrode from the discharge electrode by configuring the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode to be shorter than the distance between the discharge electrode and the reference electrode. Item 12. The ion generator according to Item 1.
3. A current measuring unit (71) for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode;
   A voltage increasing unit (S502, S504) for gradually increasing the output voltage of the power source until it is determined that an arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit;
   The voltage control part (S506) which controls so that the output voltage of the said power supply may be lowered | hung when it determines with the arc discharge having arisen in the said electrode for arcs based on the measurement result of the said current measurement part. The ion generator described in 1.
4. The ion generator according to claim 2, further comprising a distance adjusting mechanism (50, 51, 70) for adjusting a distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode.
5. A current measuring unit (71) for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode;
   A current integrated value determination unit (S100) for determining whether or not an integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit is greater than or equal to a threshold;
   When the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode is determined to be greater than or equal to a threshold value by the integrated current value determination unit, the distance adjusting mechanism (70) so as to shorten the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode. And a distance control unit (S104) for controlling the ion generation device according to claim 4.
6. A current measuring unit (71) for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode;
   An arc determination unit (S204) for determining whether or not arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit;
   A distance control unit (70) that controls the distance adjustment mechanism (70) to increase the distance between the arc electrode and the reference electrode when the arc determination unit determines that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode. The ion generator of Claim 4 provided with S206).
7. A first resistor (61) disposed in series in a first discharge circuit composed of the discharge electrode and the reference electrode and limiting a current flowing through the discharge electrode;
   A second resistor (62) disposed in series with a second discharge circuit composed of the arc electrode and the reference electrode and restricting a current flowing through the arc electrode;
   The power source outputs a predetermined voltage between the arc electrode and the reference electrode, in addition to the discharge electrode and the reference electrode,
   2. The ion generation according to claim 1, wherein when the resistance value of the second resistor is made smaller than the resistance value of the first resistor, an arc discharge is preferentially generated in the arc electrode over the discharge electrode. apparatus.
8. A current measuring unit (71) for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode;
   A voltage increasing unit (S502, S504) for gradually increasing the output voltage of the power source until it is determined that an arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit;
   A voltage control unit (S506) that controls to reduce the output voltage of the power source when it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit. The ion generator described in 1.
9. The ion generator according to claim 7, wherein the second resistor is a variable resistor (62a) capable of changing a resistance value.
10. A current measuring unit (71) for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode;
    A current integrated value determination unit (S100) for determining whether or not an integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit is greater than or equal to a threshold;
    A resistance that controls the resistance value of the variable resistor constituting the second resistor to be smaller when the integrated value of the current flowing through the arc electrode is determined to be greater than or equal to a threshold value by the integrated current value determination unit. The ion generator of Claim 9 provided with the control part (S300).
11. A current measuring unit (71) for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode;
    An arc determination unit (S204) for determining whether or not arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit;
    A resistance control unit (S400) that controls to increase the resistance value of the variable resistor that constitutes the second resistor when the arc determination unit determines that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode; The ion generator of Claim 9 provided.
12. The discharge electrode and the arc electrode each have a needle-like tip (10a, 20a), and the tip is disposed toward the reference electrode,
    The ion generator according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a tip portion of the arc electrode has an acute angle with respect to a tip portion of the discharge electrode.
13. The reference electrode includes a first reference electrode (31) disposed corresponding to the discharge electrode,
    The ion generator according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a second reference electrode (32) arranged corresponding to the discharge electrode.
14. 14. The ion generator according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the discharge electrode, the arc electrode, and the reference electrode is formed of a conductive plate member.
15. The ion generator according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising an arc electrode switch (73) for interrupting application of a voltage between the arc electrode and the reference electrode.
16. A current measuring unit (71) for measuring a current flowing through the arc electrode;
    A voltage increasing unit (S502, S504) for gradually increasing the output voltage of the power source until it is determined that an arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measuring unit;
    A voltage control unit (S506) for controlling the output voltage of the power supply to be reduced when it is determined that arc discharge has occurred in the arc electrode based on the measurement result of the current measurement unit;
    When the voltage control unit controls the output voltage of the power supply to decrease, a voltage application blocking unit that controls the arc electrode switch to block the voltage application between the arc electrode and the reference electrode (S508). The ion generator of Claim 1 provided with these.
17. A plurality of arc electrodes (21 to 23);
    A selection switch (74) for selecting a voltage output from the power source to be applied to any one of the plurality of arc electrodes;
    The ion generator of Claim 1 provided with the electric current measurement part (71) which measures the electric current which flows into the said electrode for arcs selected with the said selection switch.
18. A storage control unit (S602 to S608) for sequentially switching the arc electrodes selected by the selection switch, and storing a current value of a current flowing through the arc electrode measured by the current measurement unit in a storage unit;
    A failure determination unit (S610) for determining whether or not there is a faulty electrode for the arc based on the current value stored in the storage unit by the storage control unit;
    The limiting unit (S604) for limiting the selection of the failed arc electrode so that the selection switch does not select the failed arc electrode when the failure determination unit determines that there is the failed arc electrode. Ion generator.

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