JP2018158285A - Electrolytic water generation apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electrolyzed water generation device which suppresses discharge of air containing chlorine gas and has improved reliability. According to an embodiment, an electrolyzed water generation apparatus includes a water storage container 112 for storing water, a pair of electrodes 134a, 134b provided in the water storage container, and an electrode that is energized for a predetermined energizing time to supply water. A controller 168 that electrolyzes to generate electrolyzed water, and after a predetermined energization time has elapsed, the electrolyzed water is left for a predetermined standing time with the energization stopped and the gas generated in the water storage container is dissolved in the electrolyzed water. ing. [Selection diagram] Figure 1

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to an electrolyzed water generating apparatus.

  In recent years, electrolyzed water having various functions by electrolyzing water is known. For example, an electrolyzed water generating device that generates hypochlorous acid water as electrolyzed water having a function of sterilization and deodorization, or generates alkaline ionized water as electrolyzed water having a function of beverages and washing and rust prevention has been proposed. . Such an electrolyzed water generating apparatus is a two-chamber electrolysis cell having a pair of electrodes in one room, and two chambers that are divided into an anode chamber and a cathode chamber by providing one diaphragm between the pair of electrodes. A type electrolysis cell or a three-chamber electrolysis cell provided with two diaphragms between a pair of electrodes and an electrolyte chamber separated by two diaphragms between an anode chamber and a cathode chamber is used. . The electrolyzed water generating device generates electrolyzed water having various functions by an electrolyzed product obtained by electrolyzing an electrolyte in an electrolytic solution or water.

  Examples of the electrolyte include chlorides, oxides, alkali salts, carbonates, organic acids and the like intentionally added in addition to ionic components contained in water. For example, in a three-chamber electrolysis cell, the electrolytic solution is supplied only to the central electrolytic chamber, and the anode product and the cathode product are discharged from the anode chamber and the cathode chamber in a form separated from the electrolyte.

  In these electrolyzed water generating apparatuses, a flowing water type is generally used in which electrolysis is performed while flowing water or an electrolytic solution into an electrolysis cell. However, in the flowing water type, conditions relating to electrolysis such as flow rate are likely to vary due to various factors such as fluctuations in water pressure of the water supply equipment and fluctuations in pipe conductance over time. For this reason, a flow meter and a hydraulic flow rate adjusting mechanism are required, and there are problems that a complicated and expensive piping system is required, frequent abnormal stoppage of the apparatus due to environmental changes and temporal changes, and water quality changes.

As means for solving this problem, there has been proposed a batch type (static water type) electrolyzed water generating apparatus in which water or an electrolytic solution is supplied to an electrolysis cell having a predetermined capacity and electrolyzed every time. In the batch method, even if the water pressure etc. fluctuate, the amount of water is stabilized only by a slight fluctuation of the time for water supply and drainage. In addition, a piping system for managing the flow rate is not necessary. Since the amount of electrolysis should just adjust the time which supplies with electricity to an electrode, a simple thing can also be used for a power supply. As described above, the batch type can reduce the mass production cost, and can realize an apparatus that is stable in water quality and difficult to stop.
However, in the batch type electrolyzed water generating apparatus, time for supplying or draining water or an electrolytic solution to the electrolysis cell, that is, time other than electrolysis is required, and the generated amount is smaller than that of the flowing water type. It is not suitable for applications that consume a large amount of. Therefore, the batch type electrolyzed water generator is used for a small amount of application or for an application in which water is stored in a tank for a long time.

Japanese Patent No. 3292930 Japanese Patent No. 3716042 Japanese Patent No. 3500173

In the batch-type electrolyzed water generating apparatus described above, in order to increase the generation amount, it is necessary to quickly supply water to the electrolysis cell and transfer the generated electrolyzed water. However, when electrolysis is performed in a hydrostatic state, the chlorine gas generated in the electrolysis cell does not completely dissolve and stays in the electrolysis cell space. Therefore, if the space volume in the electrolysis cell changes due to the supply of water to or from the electrolysis cell, the air containing chlorine gas may be discharged to the outside from the drainage pipe.
The problem of the embodiment of the present invention is to provide an electrolyzed water generating apparatus that suppresses the discharge of air containing chlorine gas and has improved reliability.

  According to the embodiment, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus electrolyzes the water by energizing the water for a predetermined energization time, a water storage container for storing water, a pair of electrodes provided in the water storage container, and the electrodes. A controller that generates electrolyzed water, and after the energization time has elapsed, the electrolyzed water is allowed to stand for a predetermined standing time in a state where energization is stopped, and the gas generated in the water storage container is dissolved in the electrolyzed water; Yes.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a generating operation of the electrolyzed water generating device. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the results of measuring the concentration of chlorine gas and hydrogen chloride gas in the vicinity of the top of the generated water container when the electrode unit is removed immediately after the electrolysis. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the results of measuring the concentration of chlorine gas and hydrogen chloride gas in the generated water container and the opening when the uneven time after completion of electrolysis is variously changed. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the electrolyzed water generating device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating device showing a state in which water is supplied to the water storage container and the electrode unit at the start of electrolysis. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating device during electrolysis. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating device showing a state in which electrolyzed water is drained after electrolysis. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating device showing a state in which the electrolytic solution is drained after electrolysis. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the standing time (unevenness time) and the chlorine gas concentration. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the relationship between the standing time (unevenness time) and the chlorine gas concentration. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an equilibrium state of hypochlorous acid according to pH.

  Various embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. In addition, the same code | symbol shall be attached | subjected to a common structure through embodiment, and the overlapping description is abbreviate | omitted. In addition, each drawing is a schematic diagram for promoting the embodiment and its understanding, and its shape, dimensions, ratio, etc. are different from the actual device, but these are considered in consideration of the following description and known techniques. The design can be changed as appropriate.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the first embodiment. In this embodiment, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 is configured as a batch type or pot type electrolyzed water generating apparatus that converts static water stored in a container into electrolyzed water. As shown in FIG. 1, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 is detachably attached to a generated water container (water storage container) 112 that stores a liquid such as water and an upper end opening of the generated water container 112, The electrode unit 116 is supported and arranged on the surface, the support 170 on which the generated water container 112 is placed and supported, and the power supply unit 130 that supplies electrolytic power to the electrodes of the electrode unit 116. The power feeding unit 130 is connected to an AC power source (not shown). The power supply unit 130 may be configured with a battery or the like that supplies a constant voltage.

  The generated water container 112 is formed of, for example, a resin or glass excellent in acid resistance and alkali resistance, such as vinyl chloride, polypropylene, or polyethylene, and has a truncated cone shape. The generated water container 112 has an upper end opening 112a. The generated water container 112 is formed to have a capacity capable of accommodating 1 L of water, for example.

The electrode unit 116 includes a support body (lid body) 114 formed in a disk shape, a substantially cylindrical housing 118 supported by the support body and positioned coaxially with the support body, and a lower end portion of the housing 118. And a drainage mechanism 150 provided in the.
The support 114 is made of a resin having excellent acid resistance and alkali resistance, such as vinyl chloride, polypropylene, and polyethylene. The support body 114 is detachably attached to the upper end opening 112a of the generated water container 112, and also functions as a lid for closing the upper end opening 112a. An injection port 114 a for injecting an electrolytic solution is formed at the center of the support 114. Further, the support body 114 integrally has an injection pipe 114b extending from the lower surface of the support body, and the injection pipe 114b communicates with the injection port 114a.

  The casing 118 is formed of a resin having excellent acid resistance and alkali resistance, such as vinyl chloride, polypropylene, and polyethylene. The casing 118 includes an intermediate frame 121 that forms an intermediate chamber (electrolyte chamber) 120, a cathode case 124 that forms a cathode chamber 122, and a stirring case 128 that forms a stirring chamber (anode chamber) 126. ing. A cathode case 124 and a stirring case 128 are joined to both sides of the intermediate frame 121 to form a cylindrical shape as a whole.

  A rectangular first diaphragm 132 a is provided so as to close one opening of the intermediate chamber 120, and a rectangular second diaphragm 132 b is provided so as to close the other opening of the intermediate chamber 120. The first diaphragm 132a and the second diaphragm 132b are opposed to each other. Thus, the intermediate chamber 120 is partitioned between the first diaphragm 132a and the second diaphragm 132b. The intermediate chamber 120 and the stirring chamber 126 (inside the generated water container 112) are partitioned by a first diaphragm 32a, and the intermediate chamber 120 and the cathode chamber 122 are partitioned by a second diaphragm 132b. The intermediate chamber 120 is formed with a capacity of 10 mL, for example. The upper end of the intermediate chamber 120 communicates with the injection pipe 114b, and an electrolyte drain port (first drain port) 120a is formed at the lower end of the intermediate chamber 120.

  A rectangular plate-like anode 134a is provided adjacent to and opposed to the outside of the first diaphragm 132a. The anode 134 a is located in the stirring chamber 126. A rectangular plate-like cathode 134b is provided adjacent to and opposed to the outside of the second diaphragm 132b. The cathode 134 b is located in the cathode chamber 122. The anode 134a and the cathode 134b are opposed to each other with the intermediate chamber 120 interposed therebetween. The anode 134a and the cathode 134b are formed by forming an appropriate catalyst on a base material of a corrosion-resistant metal, for example, titanium as required, and have a large number of water-permeable holes. The anode 134a and the cathode 134b are electrically connected to the connection terminal 174 through the wiring 172, respectively. These connection terminals 174 are exposed on the outer peripheral surface of the support body 114 and are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the housing 118.

  The cathode chamber 122 is formed with a capacity of about 20 mL, for example. A cathode water drain port (second drain port) 122 a is provided at the lower end of the cathode chamber 122. In addition, an exhaust port 124 b for exhausting gas generated in the cathode chamber 122 and a water intake port 124 c for taking water in the generated water container 112 into the cathode chamber 122 are formed at the upper end of the cathode case 124. Yes.

  The stirring case 128 forming the stirring chamber 126 includes a plurality of water intakes 128a for taking the water in the generated water container 112 into the stirring chamber 126, and the generated water container 112 using the electrolyzed water generated in the stirring chamber 126. And a plurality of outlets 128b for discharging into the interior. Further, the stirring case 128 has a plurality of stirring plates (fins) 136 disposed in the stirring chamber 126. Each of the plurality of stirring plates 136 extends substantially horizontally, and is provided at intervals in the longitudinal direction (height direction) of the stirring case 128. The stirring chamber 126 is divided into a plurality of chambers arranged in the longitudinal direction of the stirring case 128 by a plurality of stirring plates 136, and each chamber is in contact with the anode 134a. Each of the plurality of chambers communicates with or opens to the outside (the generated water container 112) through a water intake port and a discharge port 128b (not shown). The water in the product water container 112 is taken into each chamber of the stirring chamber 126 through the water intake, and is discharged from the discharge port 128b into the product water container 112.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the drainage mechanism 150 has an opening / closing lid 152 that is rotatably provided at the lower end of the housing 118. The opening / closing lid 152 is formed in a cylindrical cap shape whose lower end is closed. The opening / closing lid 152 has a bottom wall 152a facing the lower end of the housing 118, and a circular plate-like packing (sealing member) 158 is attached to the center of the bottom wall 152a, for example. In addition, a plurality of arc-shaped drainage ports 156 are formed at the peripheral edge of the bottom wall 152a. The packing 158 and the bottom wall 152a function as a valve body. A drainage hole 157 is formed through the packing 158 and the bottom wall 152 a, and the drainage hole 157 is located eccentrically with respect to the rotation center axis of the opening / closing lid 152.

  When the opening / closing lid 152 is in the illustrated closed position, the drainage hole 157 is positioned away from the electrolyte drainage port 120a and the cathode water drainage port 122a, and the packing 158 contacts the lower end of the housing 118, The electrolyte drain port 120a and the cathode water drain port 122a are sealed. By rotating the open / close lid 152 to the first open position or the second open position where the drain hole 157 is aligned with the electrolyte drain port 120a or the cathode water drain port 122a, the cathode water drain port 122a or the electrolyte drain port Through 120a, the cathode water in the cathode chamber 122 or the electrolyte solution in the intermediate chamber 120 can be selectively drained.

  The electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 includes a detector 160 that detects the amount of water stored in the generated water container 112. In the present embodiment, the detector 160 uses a capacitance sensor 165. The capacitance sensor 165 is provided in the measurement chamber 162 of the electrode unit 116, and is disposed above the anode 134a, particularly at a height position of an appropriate amount of water. The capacitance sensor 165 is electrically connected to the connection terminal 175 via the wiring 167. The connection terminal 175 is exposed on the outer peripheral surface of the support body 114.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the support base 170 includes a base 182 on which the generated water container 112 is placed, and a power supply handle 184 that extends upward from the base 182. The power supply handle 184 constitutes a part of the power supply unit 130. The base 182 has a placement surface 182a on which the generated water container 112 is placed. The mounting surface 182a is formed to have a size and shape substantially equal to the bottom surface of the generated water container 112.

  A controller 168 and a notification buzzer 186 as a notification device are provided in the base 182. A display panel 188 and a plurality of lamps 190 are provided on the outer surface, for example, the side surface of the base 182. The display panel 188 and the lamp 190 display various information of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10, for example, the operation state. The notification buzzer 186, the display panel 188, and the lamp 190 are connected to the controller 168, and the operation is controlled by the controller 168.

  The power supply handle 184 extends from the base 182 along the side surface of the generated water container 112 to a position facing the side surface of the support 114. The power supply unit 130 includes a constant current power supply circuit (control circuit) provided in the controller 168 and a pair of current supply terminals 192 provided at the upper end of the power supply handle 184, and these power supply terminals 192 are supported. The connection terminal 174 exposed on the side surface of the body 114 is disposed so as to be able to face and contact. The pair of energization terminals 192 extends through the power supply handle 184 and is electrically connected to the constant current power supply circuit via the wiring 193. In the present embodiment, the constant current power supply circuit can be connected to an AC power supply via a cable 194 and an AC adapter 196. The power source is not limited to an AC power source, and a battery or a rechargeable secondary battery may be used.

  A connection terminal 197 is provided at the upper end of the power supply handle 184. The connection terminal 197 is disposed so as to be able to face and contact the connection terminal 175 exposed on the side surface of the support 114. The connection terminal 197 extends through the power supply handle 184 and is electrically connected to the controller 168 via a wiring.

  When electrolyzed water is generated by the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 configured as described above, a predetermined amount of water is put into the generated water container 112 with the electrode unit 116 removed, and approximately 1 L of water is accommodated. The input water may be generally available water such as tap water. Moreover, salt water is manually poured into the intermediate chamber 120 of the electrode unit 116 from the inlet 114a as an electrolytic solution containing chlorides such as sodium chloride and potassium chloride. Approximately 10 mL of salt water is injected and the intermediate chamber 120 is filled with salt water. At the time of salt water injection, the opening / closing lid 152 of the drainage mechanism 150 is set at the closed position.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 1, the electrode unit 116 into which salt water has been injected is inserted into the generated water container 112, and the support 114 is fitted into the upper end opening 112 a of the generated water container 112. As a result, the electrode unit 116 is attached to the generated water container 112 and immersed in the water in the generated water container 112. Part of the water in the generated water container 112 flows into the cathode chamber 122 from the water intake port 124 c of the cathode case 124, and about 20 mL of water is filled in the cathode chamber 122. Further, a part of the water in the generated water container 112 flows into the stirring chamber 126 from the plurality of water intakes of the stirring case 128, and each chamber is filled with water.

  Thus, since the stirring chamber 126 has a structure open to the product water container 112, the entire product water container 112 including the stirring chamber 126 of the electrode unit 116 forms a large anode chamber. Therefore, the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 has a two-diaphragm three-chamber structure having an intermediate chamber 120, a cathode chamber 122, and an anode chamber as a whole.

  Subsequently, the generated water container 112 is placed on the placement surface 182 a of the base 182. When the generated water container 112 is correctly placed on the support base 170, the connection terminal 174 of the electrode unit 116 comes into contact with the energization terminal 192 and is electrically connected to the constant current power supply circuit of the controller 168 through the wiring 193. Thereby, it will be in the state which can supply with electricity to the anode 134a and the cathode 134b from the electric power feeding part 130. FIG. In other words, the electrode unit 116 cannot be fed unless the generated water container 112 is properly installed on the support base 170.

  In addition, the connection terminal 175 of the capacitance sensor 165 contacts the connection terminal 197 and is connected to the controller 168 via a wiring. Thereby, the capacitance sensor 165 is electrically connected to the controller 168. The electrostatic capacitance sensor 165 detects the electrostatic capacitance of the installed proximity region, but detects whether there is an appropriate amount of water in the generated water container 112 by detecting the electrostatic capacitance difference between air and water. The controller 168 controls energization by the power supply unit 130 in accordance with the detection signal from the capacitance sensor 165, that is, permits energization from the power supply unit 130 only when an appropriate amount of water is detected.

  In the above state, when an electrolysis start switch (not shown) is turned on, the controller 168 starts electrolysis operation. As shown in FIG. 2, the controller 168 applies a predetermined electrolytic current (electrolytic voltage), for example, 1A electrolytic current, for example, about 4 minutes, from the power supply unit 130 to the anode 134a and the cathode 134b (ST1). ), Electrolyzing the salt water in the intermediate chamber 120 and the water in the product water container 112. At the same time, the controller 168 displays an operation state on the display panel 188, for example, “electrolysis” or “generating” (ST2). The controller 168 may display “electrolysis” by turning on or blinking the lamp 190.

  During electrolysis, sodium ions ionized in the salt water in the intermediate chamber 120 are attracted to the cathode 134b and flow into the cathode chamber 122 through the second diaphragm 132b. In the cathode chamber 122, water is electrolyzed by the cathode 134b to generate hydrogen gas, and an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution (alkaline water) is generated by the hydrogen gas and sodium ions. As a result, 20 mL of sodium hydroxide water is generated in the cathode chamber 122.

  Chlorine ions ionized in the salt water in the intermediate chamber 120 are attracted to the anode 134a, pass through the first diaphragm 132a, and flow into the stirring chamber (anode chamber, generation chamber) 126. In the stirring chamber 126, chlorine ions give electrons to the anode 134a to generate chlorine gas. The generated chlorine gas is dissolved in the water in the stirring chamber 126 to generate acidic water (hypochlorous acid water and hydrochloric acid), that is, electrolyzed water containing a halogen compound. The acidic water generated in this way is stirred and discharged into the water in the generated water container 112 from the flow outlet 128b along the stirring plate 136 due to the retention of bubbles mainly composed of oxygen. Further, the water in the product water container 112 is taken into the stirring chamber 126 at any time, becomes acidic water, and is mixed with the water in the product water container 112. Thereby, 1 L of water in the generated water container 112 can be changed into hypochlorous acid water, that is, generated.

  The controller 168 counts the energization time and determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed (ST3). After a predetermined energization time has elapsed, the controller 168 stops energizing the anode 134a and the cathode 134b (ST4). After the energization is stopped, the controller 168 counts a predetermined uneven time (leaving time), for example, about 5 minutes, and maintains the generated hypochlorous acid water as it is for the uneven time. Thereby, the controller 168 dissolves and reduces the chlorine gas, hydrogen chloride gas, or these gases adhering to the anode remaining in the upper space of the generated water container 112 in the generated water (ST5). In addition, the controller 168 continues to display “electrolysis” or “generating” on the display panel 188 until the uneven time elapses.

  When the uneven time elapses (ST6), the controller 168 displays "End of electrolysis" or "End of generation" on the display panel 188 and notifies the user of the end of electrolysis (ST7). Furthermore, the controller 168 notifies the user of the end of electrolysis by sounding the notification buzzer 186 (ST8). The controller 168 may notify the end of electrolysis by turning on or blinking the lamp 190.

After the electrolyzed water generation is completed, the electrode unit 116 is removed from the generated water container 112, and hypochlorous acid water generated in the generated water container 112 is drained and used for various purposes. When alkaline water (sodium hydroxide water) generated in the cathode chamber 122 is used, the open / close lid 152 of the drainage mechanism 150 is turned from the closed position to the first open position to open the cathode water drain port 122a. . Thereby, in the state which left the salt water in the intermediate chamber 120 as it is, only alkaline water can be selectively taken out, and it can utilize for washing | cleaning etc.
The salt water in the intermediate chamber 120 may be replaced every time electrolyzed water is generated, or may be replaced every time electrolyzed water is generated a plurality of times.

  According to the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 configured as described above, the water contained in the generated water container 112 is converted to hypochlorous acid water having sterilization property by the electrode unit 116 in which the electrolytic solution chamber is filled with salt water. In addition, the cathode chamber 122 can generate sodium hydroxide water having a cleaning function and can extract not only hypochlorous acid water but also sodium hydroxide water.

  After the electrolysis is completed, by setting the time for leaving (unevening time), chlorine gas, hydrogen chloride gas remaining in the upper space of the product water container 112 or these gases adhering to the anode can be dissolved in the product water. it can. As a result, the chlorine gas discharged into the atmosphere when the support 114 is opened is greatly reduced, and the reliability can be improved. Furthermore, it can prevent taking out produced | generated water accidentally before progress of unevenness time by setting it as the structure which alert | reports completion | finish of electrolysis for the first time after unevenness time passes after completion | finish of electrolysis.

  FIG. 3 shows the results of measuring the concentrations of chlorine gas and hydrochloric acid gas (hydrogen chloride gas) in the vicinity of the upper portion of the generated water container 112 when the electrode unit 116 is removed immediately after the end of electrolysis. In any case, when the distance is 20 cm away, the level becomes too thin to be detected, but when it is closer than that, high-concentration chlorine gas and hydrochloric acid gas (hydrogen chloride gas) are detected. For this reason, there is a possibility that the electrode unit 116 and the surrounding environment are corroded, and that it may cause discomfort when the face is accidentally brought close.

On the other hand, FIG. 4 shows the results of measuring the concentration of chlorine gas and hydrochloric acid gas (hydrogen chloride gas) at the opening of the generated water container when the unevenness time after the end of electrolysis is variously changed. From this result, it was confirmed that generation of chlorine gas could be completely suppressed even at the opening of the generated water container 112 by leaving the electrode unit 116 for 10 minutes after the electrolysis was completed. Actually, even if some chlorine gas is generated at the opening of the generated water container 112, it quickly diminishes in the vicinity and causes no problem. Therefore, even if the uneven time (leaving time) is set to about 4 to 5 minutes so that chlorine gas is not detected in a region 5 cm away from the opening of the generated water container 112 (detection accuracy 0.1 ppm or less). Good.
From the above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide an electrolyzed water generating apparatus that suppresses the discharge of air containing chlorine gas and has improved reliability.

  Next, an electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to another embodiment will be described. In other embodiments described below, the same parts as those of the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted or simplified, and the parts different from those of the first embodiment. Will be described in detail.

(Second Embodiment)
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus. According to the present embodiment, the electrolyzed water generating device 10 generates, for example, electrolyzed water (hypochlorous acid water) every time 1 L of water is supplied, so-called batch type or automatic pot type electrolyzed water. It is configured as a generation device. As shown in FIG. 5, the electrolyzed water generating device 10 includes a device body 12 having a substantially rectangular box shape. A salt water tank 16 containing an electrolytic solution, for example, salt water, may be installed in the vicinity of the apparatus main body 12. An operation panel 18 connected to the controller 68 is provided on the side wall of the apparatus main body 12. The operation panel 18 is provided with a display panel 11, a plurality of lamps 13, a power switch 15, and the like. The display panel 11 and the lamp 13 function as a notification device that displays various information of the electrolyzed water generating device 10, for example, an operation state. The display panel 11 and the lamp 13 are connected to a controller 68, and the operation is controlled by the controller 68. An electrode unit 20 described later is detachably attached to the apparatus main body 12.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the apparatus main body 12 includes, for example, a rectangular block-shaped base 22, a rectangular box-shaped water storage container 24 disposed or fixed on the base 22, and the base 22 and the water storage container 24. And an outer cover (housing) 27 for covering. The base 22 includes a manifold block 26 having a plurality of pipes formed therein. The manifold block 26 and the water storage container 24 are made of a material having excellent corrosion resistance such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), etc. so that it can be safely contacted with hypochlorous acid water. Is formed. The outer cover 27 is made of metal or synthetic resin.

  The manifold block 26 has a flat upper surface (mounting surface) 26a. The water storage container 24 is fixed to the upper surface 26 a of the manifold block 26. Thereby, a part of the upper surface 26 a constitutes the bottom surface of the water storage container 24. The water storage container 24 includes a rectangular tubular side wall 22a and a ceiling wall 22b that closes the upper end of the side wall 22a and faces the upper surface 26a of the manifold block 26 in parallel. The lower end edge of the side wall 22a is fixed to the upper surface 26a. The side wall 22a of the water storage container 24, the ceiling wall 22b, and the upper surface 26a of the manifold block 26 constitute a water storage space for storing a predetermined amount of water (for example, 1 L). This water storage space also functions as an anode chamber, as will be described later.

An electrode unit (electrolytic cell) 20 is disposed in the water storage container 24. The electrode unit 20 has a cylindrical or square casing 36. The housing 36 is made of a synthetic resin having excellent acid resistance and alkali resistance, such as polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, and polyethylene. A diaphragm 37 is provided in the housing 36, and the inside of the housing 36 is partitioned into a stirring chamber (anode chamber) 38 a and a cathode chamber (electrolyte chamber) 38 b by the diaphragm 37. As the diaphragm 37, a diaphragm capable of transmitting ions, for example, an ion exchange membrane or a porous membrane can be used.
A plate-like anode 40 a is disposed in the stirring chamber 38 a and faces the diaphragm 37. A plate-like cathode 40b is disposed in the cathode chamber 38b and faces the diaphragm 37 and the anode 40a. In the housing 36, a large number of through holes are formed in a side wall that defines the stirring chamber 38a. Thus, the stirring chamber 38a communicates with the water storage container 24 through a large number of through holes. The space in the water storage container 24 and the stirring chamber 38a can function as an anode chamber. A vent hole 44 is provided in the upper part of the housing 36. The cathode chamber 38 b communicates with the inside of the water storage container 24 through the vent hole 44. The hydrogen gas generated by the cathode 40 b is configured to escape to the anode chamber through the vent hole 44. A water supply / drain port 46 is provided at the bottom of the housing 36. The water supply / drain port 46 communicates with the cathode chamber 38b.

The electrode unit 20 configured in this way is disposed in the water storage container 24 through an opening 48 formed in the ceiling wall 22b of the water storage container 24, for example. The water supply / drain port 46 of the electrode unit 20 is engaged with a water supply port 50 provided on the upper surface 26 a of the manifold block 26. The upper end portion of the electrode unit 20 engages with the opening 48 of the ceiling wall 22b, and the upper end surface of the electrode unit 20 is substantially flush with the upper surface of the ceiling wall 22b.
The electrode unit 20 can be pulled out of the water storage container 24 through the opening 48. The electrode unit 20 is not limited to a detachable type, and may be fixedly disposed in the apparatus main body 12.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the electrolyzed water generating device 10 includes a water supply / drainage mechanism 100 that drains water from the water storage container 24 and water supply in the water storage container 24. The water supply / drainage mechanism 100 includes an electrolyte supply / drainage mechanism that supplies an electrolytic solution, for example, salt water, to the electrolytic chamber (here, the cathode chamber 38b) of the electrode unit 20 and drains the salt water from the electrolytic chamber. The water supply / drainage mechanism 100 is configured as follows.

  A water supply pipe 52 and an overflow pipe (discharge pipe) 54 are provided in the water storage container 24. The water supply pipe 52 is connected to a water supply port formed on the upper surface 26a of the manifold block 26, and extends substantially vertically from the manifold block 26 to the vicinity of the ceiling wall 22b. The upper end of the water supply pipe 52 is located in the vicinity of the ceiling wall 22b and constitutes a water supply port. The overflow pipe 54 is connected to a drain outlet formed on the upper surface 26a of the manifold block 26, and extends substantially vertically from the manifold block 26 to the vicinity of the ceiling wall 22b. The upper end of the overflow pipe 54 is located in the vicinity of the ceiling wall 22 b and slightly lower than the upper end of the water supply pipe 52. The overflow pipe 54 prevents the backflow to the water supply pipe 52 and defines the upper limit of the water surface in the water storage container (anode chamber) 24. When water exceeding a predetermined amount is supplied into the water storage container 24, the excess water is drained from the overflow pipe 54.

  A drain hole 56 for draining the generated electrolyzed water is provided on the upper surface 26 a of the manifold block 26. In the manifold block 26, a water supply pipe 60, a drain pipe (discharge pipe) 62, a transfer pipe 64, and an electrolyte pipe 66 are formed, and a plurality of valves are further provided. Outside the water storage container 24, on the upper surface 26a of the manifold block 26, a solenoid (not shown) for driving the valve, a liquid feed pump P, and a controller 68 for controlling the valve and the pump are provided (in the drawing, for simplification). These are illustrated in the area within the manifold block 26).

  One end of the water supply pipe 60 is connected to the water supply pipe 52, and the other end (outer end) is connected to the water supply equipment through the pipe. The water supply pipe 60 is provided with a water supply valve 70a for switching between water supply and stop. One end of the discharge pipe 62 is connected to the overflow pipe 54, and the other end (outer end) is connected to a drainage facility (not shown) via a drainage tube (discharge pipe) 63. A U-shaped tube 71 constituting a liquid reservoir is provided at the end of the drainage tube 63. A safety valve may be provided at the end of the drain tube 63.

  One end of the transfer pipe 64 is connected to the drain hole 56, and the other end (outer end) is connected to an appropriate container, for example, a generated water tank via the pipe. The transfer pipe 64 is provided with a transfer valve 70c for adjusting the transfer of the electrolyzed water. One end of the electrolyte pipe 66 communicates with a water supply port 50 provided on the upper surface 26a of the manifold block 26, and the other end (outer end) is connected to the electrolyte tank, here, the salt water tank 16 through the pipe. ing. The electrolyte pipe 66 includes a pipe branched from the pipe directed to the salt water tank 16 on the way and connected to the discharge pipe 62, and each is provided with a water supply valve 70d and a drain valve 70e for controlling the opening and closing of the pipe. ing. A liquid feed pump P that can change the direction of water supply is connected between the branch portion and the water supply port 50.

  The water supply valve 70a, the transfer valve 70c, the water supply valve 70d, and the drain valve 70e are each configured by, for example, an electromagnetic valve, and the controller 68 controls the opening and closing. The liquid feeding pump P can switch the liquid feeding direction, and the controller 68 controls the operation, stop, and liquid feeding direction switching of the liquid feeding pump P. The controller 68 includes a power source 69 that applies a predetermined electrolytic voltage to the anode 40 a and the cathode 40 b of the electrode unit 20.

Next, the electrolyzed water generating operation of the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 configured as described above will be described.
7, 8, 9, and 10 sequentially show an example of the generating operation in the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10. In the state of the electrolyzed water generating device before the start of electrolysis, the water storage container 24 has no water, and the cathode chamber 38b of the electrode unit 20 has no electrolyte (for example, salt water).

  As shown in FIG. 7, when starting the electrolyzed water generation, first, the controller 68 drives the liquid feed pump P to the water supply side with the water supply valve 70d opened, and from the salt water tank 16 to the electrolyte pipe 66, Salt water is supplied to the cathode chamber 38 b through the water supply port 50 and the water supply / drain port 46. After supplying a predetermined amount of salt water until the cathode 40b is buried in the salt water, the liquid feed pump P is stopped and the water supply valve 70d is closed. The supply amount of the salt water may be controlled by the operation time of the liquid feed pump P, or a liquid amount sensor is provided in the electrode unit 20 and controlled according to the detection of the liquid amount sensor. Also good.

  Next, the controller 68 supplies water as electrolyzed water to the water storage container 24, that is, the anode chamber. The water supply opens the water supply valve 70a, and a predetermined amount is poured into the water storage container 24 through the water supply pipe 60 and the water supply pipe 52 by the water pressure of the water supply equipment. That is, water is supplied into the water storage container 24 from the water supply port at the upper end of the water supply pipe 52. At this time, for example, 1 L of water is set to be supplied to the water storage container 24, but the air in the water storage container 24 is pushed out into this water, and the overflow pipe 54, the discharge pipe 62, the drain tube 63, the liquid It is discharged to the drainage facility through the reservoir 80. Even if air containing chlorine gas remains in the water storage container 24 by the previous electrolysis operation, the chlorine gas becomes bubbles by passing this air through the U-shaped tube 71 and becomes water in the U-shaped tube 71. Dissolve. At the same time, excess water is drained to the drainage facility through the overflow pipe 54, the discharge pipe 62, the drain tube 63, and the liquid reservoir 80.

  When water is supplied for a predetermined amount, for example, 1 L, the controller 68 closes the water supply valve 70a and stops water supply. The water supply amount may be controlled by the opening time of the water supply valve 70a, or a liquid amount sensor may be provided in the water storage container 24 and controlled according to the detection of the liquid amount sensor. Good.

  After the supply of the electrolytic solution and the water to be electrolyzed, as shown in FIG. 8, the controller 68 applies an electrolysis voltage to the anode 40a and the cathode 40b and starts electrolysis. A positive potential is supplied to the anode 40a and a negative potential is supplied to the cathode 40b, and electrolysis is performed at a predetermined current for a predetermined time. The energization time is set in advance to a predetermined time, for example, about 4 minutes. Thereby, 1 L of water in the water storage container (anode chamber) 24 is changed to hypochlorous acid water of about 20 to 100 ppm. At this time, the anode 40a generates chlorine gas from chlorine ions that have moved through the diaphragm 37, and reacts with water in the stirring chamber 38a and the water storage container 24 to contain hypochlorous acid and hydrochloric acid, that is, a halogen compound. To produce electrolyzed water. However, when chlorine gas is reacted with still water, a part of the chlorine gas does not react with water but floats up to the water surface in the form of bubbles and is released to the air in the upper part of the water storage container 24.

  Similar to the electrolysis operation flow shown in FIG. 2, the controller 68 displays an operation state on the display panel 188 during the electrolysis operation, for example, “electrolysis” or “generating”. The controller 68 may display “being electrolyzed” by turning on or blinking the lamp 13. The controller 68 counts the energization time and determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. After the predetermined energization time has elapsed, the controller 168 stops energizing the anode 34a and the cathode 34b. After the energization is stopped, the controller 68 counts a predetermined uneven time (leaving time), for example, about 5 minutes, and maintains the generated hypochlorous acid water as it is for the uneven time. By leaving the electrolyzed water for the uneven time, the chlorine gas, hydrogen chloride gas, or these gases adhering to the anode remaining in the upper space of the water storage container 24 are dissolved in the produced water, and the gas is reduced. Further, the controller 68 continues to display “electrolysis” or “generating” on the display panel 11 until the uneven time elapses.

  After the uneven time has elapsed, the controller 68 transfers the hypochlorous acid water generated in the water storage container 24 to the generated water tank. That is, as shown in FIG. 9, the controller 68 opens the transfer valve 70 c and transfers the hypochlorous acid water in the water storage container 24 from the drain hole 56 to the generated water tank through the transfer pipe 64. When the uneven time elapses, the controller 168 displays “Transferring” (corresponding to the end of electrolysis) on the display panel 188 and notifies the user of the end of electrolysis. Further, the controller 68 may notify “transferring” by turning on or blinking the lamp 13.

  When the hypochlorous acid water in the water storage container 24 disappears due to the transfer of hypochlorous acid water, the inside of the water storage container 24 is depressurized. Air is drawn into the water storage container 24. When all of 1 L of hypochlorous acid water is transferred and the water storage container 24 is emptied, outside air equivalent to 1 L is sent from the overflow pipe 54 into the water storage container 24.

After the transfer of hypochlorous acid water is completed, the transfer valve 70c is closed. As shown in FIG. 10, the controller 68 drives the liquid feed pump P to the drain side with the drain valve 70e opened. The salt water in the cathode chamber 38 b of the electrode unit 20 is drained from the feed / drain port 46 to the drainage facility through the feed port 50, the electrolyte pipe 66, the branch pipe, the discharge pipe 62, and the liquid reservoir 80 by the liquid feed pump P. After draining, the drain valve 70e is closed and the liquid feed pump P is stopped.
Thus, the operation of generating hypochlorous acid water is completed. In addition, it is not necessary to perform the water supply and drain operation of the electrolyte solution to the cathode chamber 38b every time. The cycle of supplying water to be electrolyzed, electrolysis, and transferring hypochlorous acid water may be repeated a plurality of times, and salt water may be drained and supplied at the timing when the salt water is consumed.

  According to the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 configured as described above, the water stored in the water storage container 24 can be changed into sterilized hypochlorous acid water, that is, generated almost automatically. By setting the time (mura time) to leave after electrolysis, the chlorine gas remaining in the upper space of the water storage container 24 can be sufficiently dissolved in the generated water and reduced. Thereby, the chlorine gas density | concentration in the air discharged | emitted through the overflow pipe 54 and the discharge piping 62 can be reduced significantly, and the improvement of reliability can be aimed at. Furthermore, it can prevent taking out produced | generated water accidentally before progress of unevenness time by setting it as the structure which alert | reports completion | finish of electrolysis for the first time after unevenness time passes after completion | finish of electrolysis.

  FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 show the actual measurement of the chlorine gas concentration generated in the upper space of the water storage container 24 immediately after electrolysis, and show the relationship between the standing time (mura time) and the chlorine gas concentration. From these figures, it can be seen that the chlorine gas concentration decreases almost in proportion to the unevenness time. FIG. 12 is a graph with the logarithm of the vertical axis, and since the chlorine gas concentration is proportional to time, it can be seen that this is a simple primary reaction (dependence only on the chlorine gas concentration). It can also be seen that the chlorine gas dissolution rate according to the standing time is such that the concentration becomes about 1/10 in 5 minutes.

  In a state where the water in the water storage container is still, the chlorine gas that does not partition the reaction rises in the upper space in the container, and the bubbles of oxygen gas also float in the upper space. For this reason, the chlorine gas concentration is lowered, and it becomes difficult to dissolve. However, when the uneven time (leaving time) is set as in this embodiment, the chlorine gas having the chlorine gas concentration remaining in the upper space reacts with water and dissolves with time. Therefore, as long as a predetermined standing time is set, the chlorine gas released to the outside can be greatly reduced. In the present embodiment, it was confirmed that the chlorine gas can be reduced to a level that does not cause a problem by setting a standing time of several minutes. The longer the unevenness time (leaving time), the higher the effect of reducing chlorine gas. On the other hand, the time for generation becomes longer. For this reason, when considering practicality, the unevenness time is preferably about 1 to 10 minutes.

In addition, the chlorine gas reduction effect mentioned above is dependent on the electrolyzed water which dissolves chlorine gas.
FIG. 13 shows the equilibrium state of hypochlorous acid. As shown in the following formulas (1) and (2), hypochlorous acid can take the form of hypochlorite ions and chlorine gas in an equilibrium state, but the ratio is determined by pH.
log ([HOCl] / [ClO-] = 7.49-pH (1)
log ([Cl ₂ ] / [HOCl] = 3.36 + log [Cl−] − pH (2)
That is, in the strong acid region, the chlorine gas is in an equilibrium state, so that chlorine gas is not dissolved in such electrolyzed water, but rather chlorine gas is generated. For this reason, in the electrolyzed water generating apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, it is important that the pH of the electrolyzed water (hypochlorous acid water) does not become strongly acidic. In particular, when salt content is included, the equilibrium state changes in the direction in which the chlorine gas abundance ratio increases, so it is also important that the salt content is low.

  Specifically, if the chlorine gas abundance ratio in the equilibrium state is 1% or less, the chlorine gas dissolution can be expected by setting the standing time (mura time). As such electrolyzed water, when the electrolyzed water contains a large amount of about 1000 ppm of chlorine ions, as in a one-chamber or two-chamber electrolysis cell, it is easy to take a chlorine gas form. Is preferably 5 or more. On the other hand, in the three-chamber electrolysis cell and the two-chamber electrolysis cell (electrode unit) in which the electrolytic solution is not placed on the generated water side as shown in the second embodiment, the salt concentration of the generated electrolyzed water is basically In general, it is a salt concentration (200 ppm or less) defined by tap water, and is generally about 10 ppm. In this case, if the pH of the electrolyzed water is 3 or more, the effect of reducing chlorine gas can be obtained by setting the uneven time (leaving time).

Thus, in the electrolyzed water generating apparatus configured to perform electrolysis in a still water state, the chlorine gas released to the outside can be reduced and the reliability can be improved by setting a standing time of 1 minute or more immediately after electrolysis. Can do. Moreover, the quality of the electrolyzed water to be generated is preferably pH 5 or higher, or water quality of pH 3 or higher in which the generated water salt is suppressed to the level of tap water. The quality of the electrolyzed water is preferably such that the salinity is 200 ppm or less.
As mentioned above, also in 2nd Embodiment, discharge | emission of chlorine gas can be suppressed and the electrolyzed water production | generation with improved reliability can be obtained.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment or modification as it is, and can be embodied by modifying the components without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of components disclosed in the embodiment. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, constituent elements over different embodiments may be appropriately combined. The shape, forming material, size, capacity, and the like of each component constituting the electrolyzed water generating device are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and can be variously changed as necessary.
For example, in the second embodiment, the electrode unit is not limited to the above-described two-chamber electrolysis cell, but two diaphragms are provided between a pair of electrodes, and two electrode units are provided between the anode chamber and the cathode chamber. A three-chamber electrolysis cell having an electrolyte chamber separated by two diaphragms may be used.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Electrolyzed water generating apparatus, 11 ... Display panel, 13 ... Lamp, 17 ... Notification buzzer,
20 ... Electrode unit (electrolysis cell), 24 ... Water storage container, 26 ... Manifold block,
37 ... diaphragm, 38a ... stirring chamber (anode chamber), 38b ... cathode chamber, 40a ... anode,
40b ... cathode, 52 ... water supply pipe, 54 ... overflow pipe, 60 ... water supply pipe,
62 ... Discharge piping, 63 ... Drain tube, 64 ... Transfer piping, 66 ... Electrolyte piping,
68 ... Controller, 112 ... Generated water container, 116 ... Electrode unit,
168 ... Controller, 186 ... Notification buzzer, 188 ... Display panel

Claims (10)

A water storage container for storing water;
A pair of electrodes provided in the water reservoir;
The electrode is energized for a predetermined energization time to generate electrolyzed water by electrolyzing the water, and after the energization time has elapsed, the electrolyzed water is left for a predetermined leaving time with the energization stopped. A controller for dissolving the gas generated in the electrolyzed water;
An electrolyzed water generating apparatus comprising: It further comprises a notification device for notifying the end of electrolysis,
The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the controller notifies the end of electrolysis by the alarm after the standing time has elapsed.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the notification device includes a notification buzzer.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the alarm includes a display panel, and the controller displays the end of electrolysis on the display panel after the leaving time has elapsed.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the alarm includes a lamp, and the controller lights or blinks the lamp after the standing time has elapsed.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the electrolyzed water is electrolyzed water containing a halogen compound.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the electrolyzed water has a pH of 3 or higher.   The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the electrolyzed water has a salt concentration of 200 ppm or less. Provided in the water storage container, comprising an electrolyte chamber for storing an electrolyte solution,
The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the electrodes is provided in the electrolytic solution chamber. A water supply / drainage mechanism for supplying water to the water storage container and discharging water from the water storage container;
An electrolyte supply / drainage mechanism for supplying the electrolyte solution to the electrolyte chamber,
The electrolyzed water generating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the controller drains the electrolyzed water from the water storage container by the water supply / drainage mechanism after the standing time has elapsed.

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