KR100574710B1 - Antibiotic treatment device - Google Patents

Abstract

The ion eluting unit 100 has electrodes 113 and 114 in the case 110. The case 110 is provided with an inlet 111 connecting the water supply hose 180 and an outlet 112 detachably connected to the water supply valve 50 of the washing machine 1. When water is flowed into the case 110 and a voltage is applied to the electrodes 113 and 114 by the power supply unit 101, metal ions are eluted out of the water. Water containing metal ions is received from the washing tank 30, the laundry is rinsed with this water, and the laundry is subjected to antibacterial treatment. At least a part of the case 110 is a see-through portion which can visually check the electrodes 113 and 114, so that the user can directly check the wear state of the electrodes 113 and 114, and the ion elution unit 100 Determine the replacement timing.

Ion elution unit, power supply unit, washing machine, antibacterial treatment device, ion generator, voltage generator, metal ion, case, water tank, washing tank

Description

Antibacterial Device {ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT DEVICE}

1 is a vertical sectional view showing a schematic configuration of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

2 is a model vertical cross-sectional view of a water inlet.

3 is a flowchart of the entire washing process.

4 is a flowchart of a washing process.

5 is a flowchart of a rinsing process.

6 is a flowchart of a dehydration process.

7 is a vertical sectional view showing the first embodiment of the ion elution unit.

8 is a model horizontal sectional view showing the first embodiment of the ion elution unit.

9 is a circuit configuration diagram of an ion elution unit driving circuit.

10 is a vertical sectional view showing the second embodiment of the ion elution unit.

Fig. 11 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a connection relationship of the antimicrobial treatment apparatus when the antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention is applied to a washing machine.

Fig. 12 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of the ion eluting unit constituting the antimicrobial treatment apparatus and a first hose communicating with a water tap.

Fig. 13 is an exploded perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a first connecting portion of the first hose.

Fig. 14 is a sectional view showing a schematic configuration of the first connecting portion connected to the water tap.

15 (a) and 15 (b) are cross-sectional views showing the schematic structure of a second connecting portion of the first hose connected with the ion eluting unit.

Fig. 16 is a side view showing another configuration of the first hose.

Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the ion eluting unit connecting the first hose.

Fig. 18 is a front view of the ion eluting unit when the ion eluting unit is connected to a faucet of water via the first hose.

Fig. 19 is a sectional view when viewed from the rear of the ion eluting unit.

Fig. 20 is a sectional view when seen from the side of the ion eluting unit.

Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing in detail the internal structure of the ion eluting unit when the ion eluting unit is viewed from the front.

Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing in detail the internal structure of the ion eluting unit when the ion eluting unit is viewed from the side.

Fig. 23 is an exploded perspective view showing a configuration example of a first connection portion of the ion eluting unit.

Fig. 24 is a perspective view showing a schematic configuration of a detection unit included in the ion eluting unit.

Fig. 25 is a sectional view showing another configuration example of a unit body of the ion eluting unit.

Fig. 26 is an exploded perspective view showing another configuration example of the ion eluting unit.

27 (a) to 27 (d) are a plan view, a front view, a side view, and a rear view respectively showing an external configuration of a drive unit constituting the antimicrobial treatment apparatus.

Fig. 28 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the drive unit.

Fig. 29 is a block diagram showing another configuration example of the drive unit.

<Explanation of symbols for the main parts of the drawings>

1: washing machine

10: outer housing

11: top plate

12: back panel

13: base

14a, 14b: leg

15: inlet

16: lid

17: hinge part

20: tank

The present invention relates to an antibacterial treatment apparatus capable of antibacterial treatment of laundry with metal ions.

When washing in a washing machine, finishing materials are often added to water (especially rinsing water). Common finishing materials are softeners and glues. In addition, in recent years, the necessity of the finishing treatment which gives antibacterial property to laundry is increasing.

It is preferable to dry a laundry from a sanitary viewpoint. In recent years, however, the number of households where no one is home during the day is increasing due to the improvement of the employment rate of women and the progress of nuclear family. In these homes, they have to resort to indoor curling. Even during the day when someone is at home, indoors will dry indoors.

In the case of indoor drying, laundry and germs or mold are more likely to grow in the laundry than in the sun. This tendency is remarkable when it takes time to dry laundry, such as during high humidity or low temperature, such as during the rainy season. Depending on the breeding situation, the laundry may smell strange. For this reason, there is a strong demand for households that are forced to dry indoors in order to suppress the growth of bacteria and fungi on the fabric.

In recent years, there has been a growing number of garments with antibacterial and antibacterial treatment on textiles. However, it is difficult to equip all the textile products in the home with the antibacterial and deodorant finish. In addition, the effect of the antibacterial deodorization process will fall with repeated washing.

Thus, the idea of antibacterial treatment of laundry has arisen every time washing. For example, JP-A-5-74487 discloses an electric washing machine equipped with an ion generating device that generates metal ions having sterilizing power such as silver ions and copper ions. Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-93691 describes a washing machine which sterilizes a cleaning liquid by generation of an electric field. Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2001-276484 discloses a washing machine equipped with a silver ion addition unit for adding silver ions to a washing product.

By the way, in the method of performing antibacterial treatment in a washing process, using metal ion is also effective and practical. Metal ions are eluted to the electrode on the anode side by dipping a pair of electrodes in water and applying a voltage between the electrodes. For example, when the anode is silver, a reaction of Ag → Ag ⁺ + e ⁻ occurs when a voltage is applied, and silver ions Ag ⁺ are eluted in water. After dehydration, the metal (for example, silver) is present as an ion and performs a sterilization action until the laundry dries. After the laundry dries, silver is present as a silver salt, not an ion, which is then ionized again when soaked in water to restore sterilization. In other words, this means that the surface of the laundry has an antimicrobial coating.

From the above, in order to perform the antibacterial treatment (antimicrobial coating) on laundry, it is concluded that the ion elution unit which put a pair of electrodes in the case may be installed in a washing machine. However, the various components are arrange | positioned inside the washing machine, and it is not easy to devise the space which installs an ion elution unit so that it may not lead to enlargement of a washing machine. In addition, the fact that antibacterial treatment cannot be performed except for a washing machine incorporating an ion eluting unit cannot be said to provide a sufficient benefit to a consumer.

In addition, the electrode of the ion eluting unit decreases while continuing to use, so that the amount of eluted metal ions is reduced. In the long term, the elution amount of metal ions becomes unstable, or a predetermined elution amount cannot be secured. Therefore, the ion eluting unit used for a long time needs to be replaced entirely or even by an electrode.

However, in the case where the ion eluting unit is provided in the washing machine, the washing machine cannot be replaced without disassembling the washing machine, which is a very burdensome work for the user. In order to reduce the labor of work, it is also conceivable to provide an access opening for discharging the ion elution unit in the washing machine. However, this structure complicates the structure of the washing machine and increases the manufacturing cost.

This invention is made | formed in view of the above point, and an object of this invention is to make it easy to use the ion eluting unit which elutes metal ion in water for the antibacterial treatment of laundry, by simply combining it with the washing machine of a conventional structure. Moreover, it aims at making it easy to replace | exchange an ion elution unit.

That is, an object of the present invention is to make it easy to realize that the water supply device (for example, a washing machine) is equivalent to the water supply device having an ion generator even if the water supply device (for example, a washing machine) does not originally have an ion generator that generates metal ions. .

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention proposes an antimicrobial treatment apparatus having the following constitution.                         

(1) An ion eluting unit for generating metal ions by applying a voltage between electrodes, and a power unit of the ion eluting unit, wherein the case of the ion eluting unit includes an inlet for connecting a water supply hose and a water supply valve of a washing machine. It was supposed to be provided with the outlet port connected in communication with and detachably.

According to this structure, since the ion elution unit is external to the water supply part of the washing machine, the structure of the washing machine itself may be as conventional. That is, the existing washing machine can be converted into a washing machine with an antibacterial treatment function. In addition, the ion elution unit replacement work after long-term use is extremely simple.

(2) An ion eluting unit for generating metal ions by applying a voltage between electrodes, and a power unit of the ion eluting unit, wherein the ion eluting unit includes a case in which at least a portion of the ion eluting unit can be submerged. It was assumed that the water passage capable of inducing water to the electrode was provided in the submersible portion.

According to this configuration, since the case of the ion eluting unit is submerged and water is introduced into the case through the water passage to elute the metal ions, there is no need to install a special structure for attaching or retaining the ion eluting unit in the washing machine. Moreover, it is not necessary to connect a water supply hose to an ion elution unit. In addition, since ion dissolution is performed in the water collected in the washing tank, homogeneous ion-containing water can be generated. Therefore, the metal ions are uniformly attached to the laundry, thereby obtaining an antibacterial effect without staining. In addition, when the capacity of the ion eluting unit decreases after long-term use, the old unit is discarded and only a new unit is used to solve the problem.                         

In addition, it is not only the washing tank of a washing machine that can submerge the ion elution unit. What is necessary is just a container which can accommodate the case of an ion elution unit. Thus, for example, a metal ion-containing water can be produced using a bucket, a basin, a cup, or the like. Therefore, when one handkerchief is desired to be treated with antibacterial treatment, a small amount of metal ion-containing water can be produced in a small container sufficient to soak one handkerchief, and there is no waste of water resources.

(3) In the antimicrobial treatment apparatus as described above, the power supply unit assumes a battery as a power source.

According to this constitution, antibacterial treatment can be performed even in a place where commercial power supply is not available or in a house where commercial power supply is supplied but the number of outlets is not sufficient.

(4) In the antimicrobial treatment apparatus as described above, the power supply unit is provided with a timer for setting the energization time to the electrode.

According to this configuration, by controlling the energization time, the metal ions can be eluted in an amount suitable for the amount of laundry to be immersed, the required metal ion concentration can be ensured, and the reliability of the antibacterial treatment can be improved.

(5) In the antimicrobial treatment apparatus as described above, at least a part of the case is assumed to be a see-through portion which can visually identify the internal electrode.

According to this structure, the state of the electrode inside an ion elution unit can be visually confirmed directly. As a result, the user can judge the replacement timing of the ion elution unit from the wear condition of the electrode, and can perform the unit replacement before causing serious functional degradation. Therefore, the ion eluting unit can be used in a state of always exhibiting sufficient antibacterial treatment ability.

(6) The antimicrobial treatment apparatus of the present invention is an antimicrobial treatment apparatus having an ion generating portion for generating metal ions to be added to water supplied to a water supply object by a water supply apparatus, wherein the ion generating portion is provided outside of the water supply apparatus. May be freely provided in the supply path of the water to the water supply device.

Here, as the ion generator, for example, (a) an ion eluting unit for eluting ions of an electrode constituent metal by applying a voltage between a pair of electrodes, or (b) a metal ion eluting material in the cartridge (silver If it is an elution material, it can assume that metal ion is eluted by loading an emulsified silver etc.) and making water flow through a cartridge.

According to the above configuration, since the ion generating unit can be attached later to the outside of the water supply device (for example, a washing machine), the water supply device including the ion generating unit even if the water supply device is a conventional one which does not have the ion generating unit from the beginning. Can be easily realized. Therefore, unnecessary waste of water supply apparatus is unnecessary, and the existing water supply apparatus can be used effectively. In addition, since the ion generating unit can be freely removed from the supply passage of water to the water supply device, the exchange can be easily performed.

(7) In the above antibacterial treatment apparatus, the ion generating unit may be constituted by an ion eluting unit containing (at least two) electrodes and having a unit body through which the water flows.

According to this configuration, for example, when a voltage is applied between a pair of electrodes, ions (for example, silver ions) of the electrode component metal are eluted, and the metal ions are added to water flowing in the unit body. Therefore, since the metal ion-added water is supplied from the ion elution unit to the water supply object (for example, laundry) through the water supply device, the effect by the metal ions (for example, antibacterial effect) can be reliably obtained in the water supply object.

In addition, the number of electrodes should just be a pair (two sheets) or more. Even in the case of having three or four electrodes, metal ions can be eluted by applying a voltage to these electrodes, thereby obtaining a desired effect by the metal ions.

(8) The antimicrobial treatment apparatus described above, wherein the ion eluting unit comprises: (a) a first connection portion for connecting the unit body with a first hose through which water supplied to a faucet of water flows or the faucet; The structure may further have a 2nd connection part which connects the said unit main body with the 2nd hose through which the water supplied to the said water supply apparatus flows, or the said water supply apparatus.

According to the said structure, an ion elution unit can be connected to the tap of a tap by a 1st connection part directly or indirectly through a 1st hose. In addition, the ion elution unit can be connected to the water supply apparatus directly or indirectly through the second hose by the second connecting portion. Therefore, by the combination of these connection methods, the variation of the connection at the time of installing an ion elution unit can be increased with respect to the water supply path from a tap of a water supply to a water supply device. Therefore, the installation method of the ion elution unit according to the user's request can be realized.

(9) In the antimicrobial treatment apparatus described above, the electrode may be configured to be integrally formed with the unit body.

For example, when the electrode and the unit main body are separately configured, in order to load the electrodes into the unit main body, it is necessary to separate the unit main body into at least two baskets. In this case, there is a possibility that water leakage may occur at the joining portions of the two separation baskets, and there is a concern that the sealing property is lowered.

However, when the electrode and the unit main body are integrally molded as in the present invention, there is no point corresponding to the above joined portion, so there is no problem of water leakage and the sealability in the unit main body can be reliably maintained. .

(10) In the antimicrobial treatment apparatus described above, the unit body may be configured to have a shape in which water flows out in a direction different from the inflow direction of the water.

According to this structure, even if the inflow direction of water into a unit main body is a vertical direction, for example, the outflow direction of the water can be made into a horizontal direction, for example. Thereby, even if the distance of a water supply apparatus and an ion elution unit is too close, the 2nd hose which connects an ion elution unit and a water supply apparatus can be pulled easily, without forcibly bending.

(11) The antimicrobial treatment apparatus described above may further include a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, and the drive unit may include a voltage generator that generates a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit. .

As the voltage generator, for example, a built-in battery (battery), a plug inserted into a household outlet, a connection cord, an AC adapter, and the like can be considered. By applying the voltage generated at the voltage generating unit of the drive unit to the electrode of the ion eluting unit to drive the ion eluting unit, the function of eluting metal ions from the ion eluting unit to the electrode can be reliably exhibited.

(12) The antibacterial treatment device described above, wherein the ion eluting unit may further include a detecting means for detecting at least one of the presence or absence of water flow in the unit body and the flow rate thereof.

When the detecting means detects the presence or absence of water flow inside the unit main body, it becomes possible to cause the drive unit to apply a voltage to the electrode, for example, when such water flow meets. Thereby, only when the water which the metal ion wants to add flows, metal ion can be eluted as needed, and the water which added the metal ion of the desired concentration stably can be supplied.

On the other hand, in the absence of water flow, i.e., in the absence of water to which metal ions are added, only useless power is consumed even when a voltage is applied to the electrode. Can be avoided.

In addition, when the detecting means detects the flow rate of the water flow inside the unit main body, for example, the drive unit changes the voltage applied to the electrode or the current flowing through the electrode and changes the elution amount of the metal ions. It becomes possible. As a result, even if the flow rate of the water supplied to the water supply device changes depending on the installation area of the water supply device, or if the flow rate of the water supplied to the water supply object (for example, laundry) is intentionally changed, the drive unit is operated according to the flow rate. By changing the metal ion elution amount, the metal ion concentration of the metal ion addition water can be made substantially constant at any flow rate. As a result, the excess amount of metal ions required for the antibacterial treatment does not occur, and the desired antibacterial treatment can be appropriately performed.

(13) The antimicrobial treatment apparatus described above, wherein the detecting means is based on a rotor rotating by passage of water, a magnet contained in the rotor, and a magnetic change of the magnet by rotation of the rotor. And a magnetic detection unit for detecting at least one of the presence or absence of water flow and the flow rate thereof.

When the rotor rotates by passing water inside the unit main body, the magnet embedded in the rotor also rotates, thereby changing the magnetic field (magnetic flux, magnetic field) generated by the magnet. Therefore, by detecting the presence or absence of the magnetic change, the magnetic detection unit can detect the presence or absence of water flow in the unit main body, that is, whether water has passed through the unit main body. In addition, by detecting how many times the magnetic change is periodically changed per unit time, the magnetic detecting unit can detect the number of revolutions per unit time of the rotor and can also detect the flow rate of water flowing inside the unit body. .

Therefore, the detecting means includes the rotor, the magnet, and the magnetic detecting unit as described above, so that at least one of the presence and the flow of the water flow inside the unit body can be reliably detected based on the magnetic change of the magnet. Can be.

(14) The antimicrobial processing apparatus described above, wherein the drive unit further includes a control unit for controlling the application of the voltage generated by the voltage generation unit to the electrode, wherein the control unit detects the water flow by the magnetic detection unit. At this time, the configuration may be applied to the electrode.

According to the above arrangement, when water starts flowing inside the unit body (that is, when it is determined that addition of metal ions to water is necessary), metal ions can be eluted by applying a voltage to the electrode. Thereby, wasteful power consumption in the drive unit can be avoided, such as when a voltage is applied to the electrode when there is no water flow in the unit main body (i.e., when addition of metal ions to water is unnecessary). .

(15) The antimicrobial processing apparatus described above, wherein the drive unit further includes a control unit which controls the application of the voltage generated by the voltage generation unit to the electrode, wherein the control unit detects the flow rate by the magnetic detection unit. In this case, the configuration may be such that the voltage applied to the electrode or the current flowing through the electrode is changed in accordance with the detected flow rate.

The flow rate of water supplied to the water supply device may be different depending on the installation area or installation location of the water supply device. According to the above configuration, however, the drive unit changes the voltage applied to the electrode or the current flowing through the electrode according to the flow rate of the water in the unit main body, and the metal ion elution amount is changed according to the flow rate. Regardless of the location, the metal ion concentration of the metal ion-added water can be made almost constant. As a result, the excess amount of metal ions required for the antibacterial treatment does not occur, and the desired antibacterial treatment can be appropriately performed.

(16) In the antimicrobial treatment apparatus described above, the detection means may be configured to be detachably provided with respect to the unit body.                         

According to the above configuration, even when it is necessary to replace the unit main body by the consumption of the electrodes in the unit main body, it is solved without having to replace the detecting unit, and the detecting unit can be effectively utilized. On the contrary, when the detection means needs to be replaced due to a failure or the like, it is not necessary to replace the electrodes in the unit body, and the electrodes can be effectively utilized.

(17) The antimicrobial treatment device described above, wherein the drive unit is provided on an outer surface of the water supply device, and on the basis of the vibration of the water supply device, a vibration sensor for detecting a time when elution of metal ions is required; A control unit may be further configured to control the application of the voltage generated by the voltage generating unit to the electrode, and the control unit may be configured to apply the voltage to the electrode when the vibration sensor detects the timing.

For example, when a water supply apparatus is comprised with a washing machine, each washing process of a washing process, a rinse process, a dehydration process, and a drying process is performed in a washing machine. And the vibration state of a water supply apparatus differs for every washing process by the difference of the operation method of each washing process (for example, the difference in the rotational speed of a washing tank).

On the other hand, the elution of metal ions may be performed at least after the rinsing step in the washing step. This is because even if the metal ionized water is supplied to the laundry in the washing step, water that does not add the metal ion in the next rinsing step causes the metal ions to flow and the metal ions cannot adhere to the laundry. This is because the ions become useless and inefficient. Therefore, in this case, the rinsing step is a time when elution of the metal ions capable of efficiently attaching the metal ions to the laundry is required.

In addition, the vibration sensor can detect the time when the metal ion needs to be eluted based on the vibration of the water supply device by the following method. For example, in the vibration sensor, a washing process requiring elution of metal ions due to a difference in vibration periods resulting from a difference in rotational speeds of a washing tank, a stirring member (pulsator), a motor, etc. constituting a water supply device (for example, , Rinsing step) is detected.

The control unit applies a voltage to the electrode of the ion eluting unit to elute the metal ions when the vibration sensor detects the time when the metal ions need to be eluted based on the vibration of the water supply device (in the above example, the operation period of the rinsing step). In this case, metal ions can be eluted automatically when the metal ions need to be eluted. In this case, it is possible to elute metal ions only in a more effective process without requiring manual input by a user for turning on / off the application of voltage to the electrode.

(18) In the antimicrobial treatment apparatus described above, the drive unit may be configured such that removal is freely arranged outside the water supply apparatus.

As an arrangement position of a drive unit, the outer surface of a water supply apparatus, the wall of the water supply apparatus vicinity, etc. can be assumed, for example. By removing the drive unit freely disposed outside the water supply device, the drive unit can be attached later together with the ion eluting unit. Thereby, even if the existing water supply apparatus does not have an ion elution unit, it can easily implement the thing equivalent to the water supply apparatus provided with an ion elution unit and a drive unit. Therefore, the existing water supply device can be effectively used without requiring unnecessary waste of the existing water supply device. In addition, since the drive unit is provided outside the water supply device, it is easy to repair the drive unit or replace the battery when the failure or the battery life is over.

(19) The antibacterial treatment device described above, wherein the water supply device may be a washing machine that supplies water to laundry as the water supply object.

If the water supply device is a washing machine, the antimicrobial treatment device of the present invention can be attached later to the washing machine, so that the existing washing machine can realize the equivalent of the washing machine capable of eluting metal ions. The effect can be obtained.

[Embodiment 1]

EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiment of this invention is described based on drawing. First, the first embodiment will be described based on FIGS. 1 to 9.

1 is a vertical sectional view showing the overall configuration of a washing machine 1. The washing machine 1 is a fully automatic type and has an outer housing 10. The outer housing 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape and is formed of a metal or a synthetic resin, and its upper and lower surfaces are openings. A top plate 11 made of synthetic resin is stacked on the top opening of the outer housing 10. The upper plate 11 is fixed to the outer housing 10 with screws.

In Fig. 1, the left side is the front of the washing machine 1 and the right side is the back. The back panel 12 made of synthetic resin is similarly stacked on the upper surface of the upper plate 11 located on the back side. The back panel 12 is fixed to the top plate 11 with screws. The base 13 made of synthetic resin is stacked on the bottom opening of the outer housing 10. The base 13 is fixed to the outer housing 10 with screws. In addition, all the illustration of the screw described so far is abbreviate | omitted.

Four corners of the base 13 are provided with leg portions 14a and 14b for supporting the outer housing 10 on the floor. The leg part 14b on the back side is a fixed leg integrally molded with the base 13. The leg part 14a of the front side is a screw leg of variable height, and the height adjustment of the washing machine 1 is performed by turning this.

The upper plate 11 is provided with a laundry inlet 15 for injecting laundry into a washing tank to be described later. And the lid 16 is provided so that the laundry inlet 15 may be covered from above. The lid 16 is coupled to the top plate 11 by the hinge portion 17, and rotates in the vertical plane.

Inside the outer housing 10, a water tank 20 and a washing tank 30 serving as a dehydration tank are disposed. The water tank 20 and the washing tank 30 also show the shape of the cylindrical cup with the upper surface opened, and are concentric in the form which makes the water tank 20 outside and the washing tank 30 inside with the axis | shaft upright, respectively. It is arranged as an enemy. The water tank 20 is suspended by the suspension member 21. The suspension member 21 is arrange | positioned in four places in the form which connects the lower part of the outer surface of the water tank 20 and the inner surface corner part of the outer housing 10, and supports the water tank 20 so that it may oscillate in a horizontal plane.

The washing tub 30 has a circumferential wall that widens with a gentle taper toward the upper side. There is no opening in the circumferential wall except for the plurality of dehydration holes 31 arranged annularly at the top thereof. That is, the washing tank 30 is a so-called "holeless" type. At the edge of the upper opening of the washing tub 30, an annular balancer 32, which serves to suppress vibrations when the washing tub 30 is rotated at high speed for dewatering the laundry, is mounted. On the inner bottom of the washing tub 30, a pulsator 33 is arranged to generate a flow of washing water or rinsing water in the tank.

The drive unit 40 is attached to the lower surface of the water tank 20. The drive unit 40 includes a motor 41, a clutch mechanism 42, and a brake mechanism 43, and protrudes the dehydration shaft 44 and the pulsator shaft 45 upward from the center thereof. The dehydration shaft 44 and the pulsator shaft 45 have a double shaft structure having the dehydration shaft 44 outward and the pulsator shaft 45 inward. 44 is connected to the washing tub 30 to hold it. The pulsator shaft 45 enters the washing tub 30 again and is connected to the pulsator 33 to support it. Sealing members for preventing leakage are disposed between the dehydration shaft 44 and the water tank 20 and between the dehydration shaft 44 and the pulsator shaft 45, respectively.

The water supply valve 50 which opens and closes electronically is arrange | positioned in the space below the back panel 12. As shown in FIG. The connection pipe 51 and the water supply pipe 52 extend out from the water supply valve 50. The connection pipe 51 protrudes toward the upper surface of the back panel 12, and the ion eluting unit 100 is detachably connected thereto. The structure and function of the ion elution unit 100 will be described later in detail. On the other hand, the water supply pipe 52 extends in the horizontal direction under the back panel 12 and is connected to the water supply port 53 on the container. The water supply port 53 is located at the position facing the inside of the washing tub 30, and has a structure shown in FIG.

2 is a model vertical sectional view of the water supply port 53, and is in the form seen from the front side. The water supply port 53 has an upper surface open, and the inside thereof is partitioned left and right. The compartment on the left side is a detergent room 54, which is a preparation space for putting detergent. The compartment on the right side is the finishing agent room 55, and is a preparation space for putting the finishing agent for washing. On the front side of the bottom of the detergent chamber 54, a horizontally long water inlet 56 for pouring water to the washing tub 30 is provided. The siphon part 57 is provided in the finishing agent room 55.

The siphon part 57 is comprised from the inner tube 57a which rises perpendicularly from the bottom face of the finishing agent chamber 55, and the cap-shaped outer surface 57b which covers the inner tube 57a. A gap through which water passes is formed between the inner tube 57a and the outer tube 57b. The bottom of the inner tube 57a is opened toward the inside of the washing tub 30. The lower end of the exterior 57b maintains a predetermined gap with the bottom face of the finishing agent chamber 55, and the excitation becomes an inlet of water. When water is poured into the finishing chamber 55 to a level exceeding the upper end of the inner tube 57a, the siphon action takes place, and the water passes through the siphon portion 57 and is sucked out of the finishing chamber 55 to wash the tub. Drop to (30).

The water supply valve 50 consists of the main water supply valve 50a and the sub water supply valve 50b. The connection pipe 51 is common to both the main water supply valve 50a and the sub water feed valve 50b. The water supply pipe 52 consists of the main water supply pipe 52a connected to the main water supply valve 50a, and the sub water supply pipe 52b connected to the sub water supply valve 50b.

The main water supply pipe 52a is connected to the detergent chamber 54, and the sub water supply pipe 52b is connected to the finishing agent chamber 55. That is, the path flowing through the detergent chamber 54 from the main water supply pipe 52a to the washing tank 30 and the path pouring from the sub water supply pipe 52b through the finishing agent chamber 55 to the washing tank 30 are different systems. have.

Returning to Fig. 1, the explanation will continue. The bottom of the water tank 20 is attached with a drain hose 60 for draining the water in the water tank 20 and the washing tank 30 out of the outer housing 10. Water flows into the drain hose 60 from the drain pipe 61 and the drain pipe 62. The drain pipe 61 is connected to the location on the outer circumference side of the bottom of the water tank 20. The drain pipe 62 is connected to the location near the center of the bottom of the water tank 20.

The annular partition 63 is fixed to the inner bottom of the water tank 20 so as to surround the connection part of the drain pipe 62 inward. The annular sealing member 64 is attached to the upper part of the partition 63. When the sealing member 64 is in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the disk 65 fixed to the bottom outer surface of the washing tank 30, an independent drainage space 66 is formed between the water tank 20 and the washing tank 30. The drainage space 66 communicates with the inside of the washing tub 30 through a drain port 67 made at the bottom of the washing tub 30.

The drain pipe 62 is provided with a drain valve 68 that opens and closes electronically. The air trap 69 is provided in the position which reaches the upstream side of the drain valve 68 of the drain pipe 62. As shown in FIG. The pressure pipe 70 extends from the air trap 69. The water level switch 71 is connected to the upper end of the pressure pipe 70.

The control part 80 is arrange | positioned at the front side of the outer housing 10. As shown in FIG. The control unit 80 is disposed under the upper plate 11, receives an operation command from the user through the operation / display unit 81 provided on the upper surface of the upper plate 11, and drives the drive unit 40 and the water supply valve 50. And an operation command to the drain valve 68. The control unit 80 also issues a display command to the operation / display unit 81.

The operation of the washing machine 1 will be described. The lid 16 is opened and the laundry is introduced into the washing tank 30 through the laundry inlet 15. Detergent is put into the detergent room 54 of the water supply port 53. As shown in FIG. If necessary, the finishing agent is added to the finishing agent chamber 55 of the water supply port 53. In addition, you may put a finishing agent in the middle of a washing process.

After the preparation for adding the detergent, the lid 16 is closed, and the washing / cleaning conditions are selected by operating the operation button group of the operation / display section 81. When the start button is pressed last, the washing process is performed according to the flowcharts of FIGS. 3 to 6.

3 is a flowchart showing the overall process of washing. In step S201, it is checked whether the so-called reservation operation which starts washing at the set time is selected. If the reservation operation is selected, the process proceeds to step S206. If it is not selected, the process proceeds to step S202.

When it progresses to step S206, it is confirmed whether operation start time reached. When the operation start time comes, the process proceeds to step S202.

In step S202, whether the washing process is selected or not is checked. If a selection has been made, the process proceeds to step S300. The content of the washing process of step S300 is demonstrated by another flow chart of FIG. After the washing process ends, the process proceeds to step S203. If the washing process is not selected, the process proceeds directly to step S203 in step S202.

In step S203, whether the rinsing process is selected or not is checked. If it is selected, the flow proceeds to step S400. The contents of the rinsing step of step S400 will be described by another flow chart of FIG. 5. After completion of the rinsing step, the process proceeds to step S204. If no rinsing step is selected, the process proceeds directly to step S204 in step S203.

In step S204, it is checked whether the dehydration process is selected. If it is selected, the flow proceeds to step S500. The content of the dehydration process of step S500 is demonstrated by another flowchart of FIG. After completion of the dehydration step, the process proceeds to step S205. If no dehydration step is selected, the process proceeds directly to step S205 in step S204.

In step S205, the termination process of the control part 80 (especially the computing device (microcomputer) contained in it) advances automatically according to the order. In addition, the completion of the washing process is reported as the end sound. After all completion, the washing machine 1 waits in a power OFF state in preparation for the next washing process.

Subsequently, each individual process of washing, rinsing, and dehydration will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6.

4 is a flowchart of a washing process. In step S301, the water level data in the washing tank 30 detected by the water level switch 71 is recognized. In step S302, it is checked whether or not capacity sensing is selected. If it is selected, it progresses to step S308. If not selected, the process proceeds directly to step S303 in step S302.

In step S308, the amount of laundry is measured by the rotational load of the pulsator 33.

After capacitive sensing, the flow proceeds to step S303.

In step S303, the main water supply valve 50a is opened, and water flows into the washing tank 30 through the main water supply pipe 52a and the water supply port. The detergent put in the detergent chamber 54 of the water supply port 53 is also mixed with water and introduced into the washing tank 30. The drain valve 68 is closed. When the water level switch 71 detects the set water level, the main water feed valve 50a is closed. The flow then advances to step S304.

In step S304, familiar driving is performed. That is, the pulsator 33 reversely rotates to shake the laundry in the water, thereby making the laundry familiar with the water. This sufficiently absorbs water into the laundry. In addition, the air attached to each part of the laundry is removed. As a result of the familiar operation, when the water level detected by the water level switch 71 is lower than the initial time, the water supply valve 50a is opened in step S305 to replenish water, and the set water level is restored.

In addition, if a washing course for performing "foam sensing" is selected, forensic sensing is performed along with familiar driving. After the familiar operation, the change in the water level from the set water level is detected, and if the water level is lower than the prescribed value, it is determined that the absorbent material is highly absorbent.

After a stable set water level is obtained in step S305, the routine advances to step S306. According to the user's setting, the motor 41 rotates the pulsator 33 in a predetermined pattern to form a main water flow for washing in the washing tub 30. Washing of laundry is performed by this main stream. Braking is applied to the dehydration shaft 44 by the brake device 43, and the washing tank 30 does not rotate even if the laundry and the laundry move.

After the period of main water flow has passed, the process proceeds to step S307. In step S307, the pulsator 33 reverses little by little, loosens the laundry, and distributes the laundry in the washing tank 30 in a balanced manner. This is to prepare for the dehydration rotation of the washing tank (30).

Subsequently, the contents of the rinsing step will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. 5. Although the dehydration process of step S500 is required initially, this is demonstrated by the flowchart of FIG. After dehydration, the flow proceeds to step S401. In step S401, the main water feed valve 50a is opened and water is supplied to the set water level.

After water supply, the flow proceeds to step S402. In step S402, familiar operation is performed. The familiar operation is the same as that performed in step S304 of the washing step.

After the familiar operation, the process proceeds to step S403. As a result of the familiar operation, when the water level detected by the water level switch 71 is farther than the original, the main water supply valve 50a is opened to supply water to restore the set water level.

After the set water level is restored in step S403, the flow proceeds to step S404. According to the user's setting, the motor 41 rotates the pulsator 33 in a predetermined pattern to form a main water stream for rinsing in the washing tank 30. This main stream of water washes the laundry. Braking is applied to the dehydration shaft 44 by the brake apparatus 43, and even if the rinsing water and the laundry move, the washing tank 30 does not rotate.

After the period of main water flow has passed, the flow proceeds to step S405. In step S405, the pulsator 33 reverses little by little and loosens a laundry. In this way, the laundry is distributed in the washing tank 30 in a balanced manner, and the dehydration rotation is prepared.

In the above description, it is assumed that "water rinse" is performed by collecting rinsing water in the washing tank 30 and performing rinsing. have. Which one to employ, or both, is determined by the user's choice.

Subsequently, the contents of the dehydration step will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. 6. First, the drain valve 68 is opened in step S501. The laundry in the washing tub 30 is drained through the drainage space 66. The drain valve 68 remains open during the dehydration process.

In the state where most wash water is removed from the laundry, the clutch device 42 and the brake device 43 are switched. The switching timing of the clutch device 42 and the brake device 43 may be before the start of drainage or at the same time as the drainage. Then, the motor 41 rotates the dehydration shaft 44 this time. Thereby, the washing tank 30 performs dehydration rotation. The pulsator 33 also rotates with the washing tank 30.

When the washing tub 30 rotates at a high speed, the laundry is pushed to the inner circumferential wall of the washing tub 30 by centrifugal force. The washing water contained in the laundry is also gathered on the inner wall of the washing tank 30, but as described above, since the washing tank 30 is widened upward on the taper, the laundry subjected to centrifugal force raises the inner surface of the washing tank 30. . The wash water barely arrives at the top of the washing tub 30 and is discharged to the dehydration hole 31. Washing water out of the dewatering hole 31 is hardly lowered to the inner surface of the water tank 20, and flows down to the bottom of the water tank 20 on the inner surface of the water tank 20. Then, the wash water is discharged out of the outer housing 10 through the drain pipe 61 and the drain hose 60 connected thereto.

In the flow of Fig. 6, the dewatering operation is performed at a relatively low speed in step S502, and the high speed dewatering operation is performed in step S503. After step S503, the routine advances to step S504. In step S504, power supply to the motor 41 is cut off and the stop processing is performed.

By the way, the ion elution unit 100 is connected to the water supply valve 50 via the connection pipe 51. 7 to 9, the structure and function of the ion eluting unit 100 and the role of being attached to and completed the washing machine 1 will be described.

7 and 8 are cross-sectional views of the ion eluting unit 100, FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view, and FIG. 8 is a horizontal cross-sectional view schematically shown. The ion eluting unit 100 has a cylindrical case 110 made of an insulating material such as synthetic resin, silicone, or rubber. The case 110 is arrange | positioned so that the cylindrical axis line may be horizontal, and the normal inflow port 111 protrudes upwards on one side, and the normal outflow port 112 protrudes downwards on the other side.

The inlet 111 has male threads 111a on the outer surface, and the outlet 112 has female threads 112a on the inner surface. By screwing the female screw portion 112a of the outlet port 112 into the male screw portion provided on the outer surface of the connecting pipe 51, the case 110 is connected to the connecting pipe 51 to communicate with the water supply valve 50. . An O-ring 112b is disposed at the innermost portion of the female screw 112a. The O-ring 112b is in close contact with the tip of the connecting pipe 51 to form a watertight portion.

A nut-shaped connecting port 111b is screwed into the male threaded portion 111a of the inflow portion 111 (see Fig. 1). The connection port 111b connects and fixes one end of the water supply hose 180 to the inlet port 111. The other end of the water supply hose 180 is connected to a water tap (not shown).

The connection mode of the outlet port 112 with respect to the connection pipe 51, or the connection mode of the water supply hose 180 with respect to the inlet port 111 is not limited to the above-mentioned screw system. Any device for connection of water-relationships generally used in homes, such as sieve rings and collet chuck connection tools, is applicable.

In addition, although the outlet port 112 is connected to the connection pipe 51 which protruded on the upper surface of the back panel 12 of the washing machine 1 in this embodiment, the connection object of the outlet port 112 is not limited to this. Any component interposed between the water supply valve 50 can be a connection target of the outlet 112. Depending on the structure of the washing machine 1, it is also possible to connect the outlet 112 to the water supply valve 50 directly. In other words, the outlet 112 is connected to the water supply valve 50 in a detachable manner so that the attachment and detachment may be carried out outside the washing machine 1.

As for the case 110, the stage in which the inflow port 111 is provided is an opening part, and two plate-shaped electrodes 113 and 114 are inserted here. The electrodes 113 and 114 are made of a metal that is the basis of metal ions having antibacterial properties, that is, silver copper, zinc, or the like. The sizes of the electrodes 113 and 114 can be, for example, about 2 cm x 5 cm and a thickness of about 1 mm.

The electrodes 113 and 114 have terminals 115 and 116 at one end, respectively. By passing the terminals 115 and 116 through the disk-shaped cap 117 which is combined with the opening of the case 110, the electrodes 113 and 114 are fixed to the cap 117 at intervals from each other. When the lid is covered with the cap 117 in the opening of the case 110, the electrodes 113 and 114 are fixed in the case 110 in a form extending in the axial direction of the case 110.

The dome-shaped waterproof cap 118 is fixed to the cap 117. The feed cable 119 extending from the power supply unit 101 (see Fig. 1) enters the waterproof cap 118. The feed cable 119 has insulated core wires 119a and 119b therein. In the waterproof cap 118, the insulated core wire 119a is connected to the terminal 115, and the insulated core wire 119b is connected to the terminal 116.

Between the case 110 and the cap 117, between the cap 117 and the electrodes 115 and 116, between the cap 117 and the waterproof cap 118, and between the waterproof cap 118 and the feed cable 119. Watertight sealing is suitably performed to prevent water from entering the watertight cap 118.

The power supply unit 101 incorporates a drive circuit of the ion elution unit 100, but this circuit will be described later in detail. From the power supply unit 101, a power cord 102 connected to a commercial power source extends in addition to the power supply cable 119.

In the case 110, water flows from the inlet 111 to the outlet 112 in parallel with the lengthwise direction of the electrodes 113 and 114. When a predetermined voltage is applied to the electrodes 113 and 114 in the state where water is present in the case 110, metal ions of the electrode constituent metal are eluted from both sides of the electrodes 113 and 114.

9 is a circuit diagram of the drive circuit 120 of the ion eluting unit 100. The transformer 122 is connected to the commercial power supply 121 through the power switch 132, and the voltage of 100V is stepped down to a predetermined voltage. The actuator portion of the power switch 132 is exposed to the outer surface of the power supply unit 101 and can be operated from the outside. The output voltage of the transformer 122 is rectified by the full-wave rectifying circuit 123, and then the constant voltage is made constant in the constant voltage circuit 124. The constant current circuit 125 is connected to the constant voltage circuit 124. The constant current circuit 125 operates to supply a constant current to the electrode drive circuit 150 described later, regardless of the change in the resistance value in the electrode drive circuit 150.

The rectifier diode 126 is connected to the commercial power supply 121 in parallel with the transformer 122. The output voltage of the rectifying diode 126 is smoothed by the condenser 127, becomes a constant voltage by the constant voltage circuit 128, and is supplied to the microcomputer 130. The microcomputer 130 controls the start-up of the triac 129 connected between one end of the primary coil of the transformer 122 and the commercial power source 121.

The electrode drive circuit 150 is formed by connecting NPN transistors Q1 to Q4, diodes D1 and D2, and resistors R1 to R7 together. Transistor Q1 and diode D1 form photocoupler 151, and transistor Q2 and diode D2 form photocoupler 152. That is, diodes D1 and D2 are photodiodes, and transistors Q1 and Q2 are phototransistors.

Now, when the high level voltage is given to the line L1 from the microcomputer 130, and the low level voltage or OFF (zero voltage) is given to the line L2, the diode D2 is turned on, and the transistor Q2 is also attached thereto. ON. When the transistor Q2 is turned on, current flows through the resistors R3, R4, and R7 to bias the base of the transistor Q3, and the transistor Q3 is turned on.

On the other hand, since diode D1 is OFF, transistor Q1 is OFF and transistor Q4 is also OFF. In this state, a current flows from the electrode 113 on the anode side toward the electrode 114 on the cathode side. As a result, cation metal ions and negative ions are generated in the ion elution unit 100.

When current flows in one direction for a long time in the ion eluting unit 100, the electrode 113 on the anode side decreases while the impurities in water adhere to the electrode 114 on the cathode side as a scale. . Since this causes a decrease in the performance of the ion eluting unit 100, the electrode driving circuit 150 can be operated in a forced electrode cleaning mode. In the forced electrode cleaning mode, the microcomputer 130 switches control so that the voltages of the lines L1 and L2 are reversed so that current flows in the reverse direction of the electrodes 113 and 114. In this case, transistors Q1 and Q4 are turned on, and transistors Q2 and Q3 are turned off. The microcomputer 130 has a counter function, and performs the above-mentioned switching every time the predetermined count number is reached.

When a change occurs in the resistance of the electrode driving circuit 150, in particular, the resistance of the electrodes 113 and 114 decreases, the constant current circuit 125 outputs the output voltage. Raise, preventing a decrease in current. However, if the cumulative use time becomes longer, the ion elution unit 100 will reach the end of its life, and current reduction will not be prevented even when the forced electrode cleaning mode is switched or the output voltage of the constant current circuit 125 is increased.

Therefore, in the present circuit, the current flowing between the electrodes 113 and 114 of the ion elution unit 100 is monitored by the voltage generated in the resistor R7. When the current reaches a predetermined minimum current value, the current detection circuit 160 ) Is detected. Information that the minimum current value has been detected is transmitted from the photodiode D3 constituting the photocoupler 163 to the microcomputer 130 through the photo transistor Q5. The microcomputer 130 drives the warning report means 131 through the line L3, and makes a predetermined warning report. The warning report means 131 is constituted by suitable display means such as an LED or a liquid crystal panel, and is arranged on the outer surface of the case of the power supply unit 101.

In addition, in the event of an accident such as a short in the electrode driving circuit 150, a current detection circuit 161 is provided for detecting that the current has reached a predetermined maximum current value or more, and the output of the current detection circuit 161 is provided. Based on this, the microcomputer 130 drives the warning display means 131. In addition, when the output voltage of the constant current circuit 125 becomes below a predetermined minimum value, the voltage detection circuit 162 detects this, and the microcomputer 130 drives the warning report means 131 in the same manner.

The timer 133 is connected to the microcomputer 130. The timer 133 has an operation unit on the outer surface of the case of the power supply unit 101. By operating this operation part, an appropriate time can be set.

The antimicrobial treatment apparatus which consists of the ion elution unit 100 and the power supply unit 101 can be used as follows.

First, the outlet 112 of the ion elution unit 100 is attached to the connection pipe 51 of the washing machine 1. The water supply hose 180 is connected to the inlet 111. The faucet which connected the other end of the water supply hose 180 is opened, and water flows in the case 110 of the ion elution unit 100. The water actually flows when the water supply valve 50 is opened. The power cord 102 of the power supply unit 101 is connected to an outlet of commercial power. The power supply unit 101 may be fixed to the side or the upper surface of the washing machine 1 by appropriate installation means.

Metal ions are introduced into the rinsing process. When the flow chart of Fig. 5 enters the step S401 (water supply), the power switch 132 is turned on, the electrodes 113 and 114 are energized, and ions of the electrode constituent metal are eluted in water. When the electrode constituent metal saver, in the electrode of the cathode-side Ag → Ag ^{+ +} e ^- occurs in the reaction, water is in the Ag ⁺ ions are eluted. The current flowing between the electrodes is a direct current. The metal ion-containing water is introduced into the washing tank 30 from the water supply port 53.

The amount of time to energize is set by the timer 133. The time required to bring the metal ion concentration in the rinsing water to a predetermined level is determined by the amount of the rinsing water. Thus, the timer 133 is set for time by appropriately measuring the amount of rinsing water. At this time, the conversion table which prepared the quantity of rinsing water and the energization time which is needed about the quantity may be prepared. The conversion table may be sealed and affixed on the surface of the ion elution unit 100 and displayed by appropriate means such as printing and engraving. A conversion table may be provided on the power supply unit 101 side.

Injection of the rinsing water in step S401 (water supply) is performed with the main water feed valve 50a. The flow rate of the main water is set so that the elution of the ions is finished before the rinsing water injection is completed. In a situation where a predetermined amount of rinsing water containing a predetermined concentration of metal ions is collected in the washing tank 30, the main water supply valve 50a is closed to terminate the water supply. Thereafter, a rinsing step of step S402 or less is performed, followed by a dehydration step along the flow chart of FIG. 6.

While the rinsing water is being stirred during the rinsing process, the contact between the laundry and the metal ions is promoted. Metal ions gradually adhere to the fibers of the laundry and an antimicrobial coating forms on the surface of the laundry.

When the finishing agent is added, the loading operation is performed at the end of step S404 (mainstream). In that case, the sub water feed valve 50b is opened and water flows into the finishing agent chamber 55 of the water supply port 53. When the finishing agent is put in the finishing agent chamber 55, the finishing agent is injected into the washing tank 30 together with water by the siphon portion 57. Since the water level in the finishing agent chamber 55 reaches a predetermined height, a siphon effect is generated, so that the liquid finishing agent can be held in the finishing agent chamber 55 until the time comes and water is injected into the finishing agent chamber 55. have.

The sub water feed valve 50b is closed in a situation in which a predetermined amount (or an amount sufficient to cause a siphon action in the siphon portion 57 or more) is injected into the finishing chamber 55. The rinsing water into which the finishing agent has been added is stirred for a predetermined time, thereby facilitating contact between the laundry and the finishing agent. After the elapse of the predetermined time, the process proceeds to step S405 (balance).

The addition of the finishing agent is performed after waiting for a predetermined time after the start of rinsing with rinsing water containing metal ions. Therefore, when the metal ions and the finishing agent (softener) are added to the rinsing water at the same time, the metal ions react with the softening agent component to reduce the antimicrobial activity. However, when the finishing agent is added as described above, the finishing agent is added after the metal ions are sufficiently attached to the laundry, and the reaction between the metal ions and the finishing agent component is disturbed, and the antimicrobial effect of the metal ions can be left on the laundry. .

The metal constituting the electrodes 113 and 114 is preferably silver copper or an alloy of silver and copper. Silver ions eluted from the silver electrode have an excellent bactericidal effect, and copper ions eluted from the copper electrode have an excellent antifungal effect. Moreover, silver ion and copper ion can be eluted simultaneously from the alloy of silver and copper.

Since silver ions are cations and laundry is negatively charged in water, silver ions are electrically adsorbed to the laundry. In the state of being adsorbed on laundry, silver ions are electrically neutralized. Therefore, silver ions become difficult to react with chloride ions (anion ions) which are components of the finishing agent (softener). However, silver ions are adsorbed to the laundry over time, so a certain amount of time must be allowed to enter the finishing agent. Thus, 10 minutes is secured as the stirring time after the silver ions are introduced. The stirring time after addition of a finishing agent is enough about 3 minutes.

Metal ions are introduced into the washing tank 30 from the main water supply pipe 52a through the detergent chamber 54. The finishing agent is injected into the washing tank 30 from the finishing room 55. Since the path for introducing metal ions into the rinsing water and the path for adding the finishing agent to the rinsing water are different systems, the metal ions pass through the path for adding the finishing agent to the rinsing water and remain in this path. Metal ions come into contact with the finishing agent, and the compound does not lose antimicrobial activity.

In the above configuration, after the washing machine 1 enters the rinsing step, the power switch 132 is turned ON and the timer 133 is set for a time, which is inconvenient for the user. In order to eliminate this inconvenience, it is also possible to configure as follows.

That is, the flow switch is installed in the case 110. The user first turns on the power switch 132 of the power supply unit 101, sets the timer 133 for time, and then pushes the start key of the washing machine 1 to start the washing process. The second large amount of water is being supplied from the water supply valve 50 (the main water supply valve 50a) (except the water supply of the supply water in step S305), that is, the rinsing water in the rinsing water in step S401 is performed. When the flow rate switch detects that, the microcomputer 130 starts to operate and energizes the electrodes 133 and 134 for a time set by the timer 133.

The electrodes 113 and 114 are worn while continuing the elution of metal ions, and the elution amount of the metal ions decreases. In the long term, the elution amount of metal ions becomes unstable, or a predetermined elution amount cannot be secured. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the ion eluting unit 100 with a new unit when the electrodes 113 and 114 reach the limit of their contents.

In order to determine whether the electrodes 113 and 114 have reached the content limit, the following studies have been conducted on the ion elution unit 100.

The ends of the electrodes 115 and 116 of the electrodes 113 and 114 are referred to as "sources" and the ends of the electrodes 113 and 114 are referred to as "tips". Although the electrodes 113 and 114 are parallel but not parallel, as shown in Fig. 8, the electrodes are arranged in a tapered shape so that the gap becomes narrower as the tip ends. In this arrangement, the electrodes 113 and 114 are eluted as metal ions from a narrow gap, and the electrodes 113 and 114 are melted from the tip. Therefore, by focusing on the length from the source to the tip, it is possible to grasp how much the volume of the electrodes 113 and 114 is reduced.

In order to know the length from the source to the tip of the electrodes 113 and 114, the case 110 is configured as follows. That is, the side surface (front surface) or upper surface of the case 110 is formed of transparent synthetic resin, and it is set as the see-through part. The state of the electrodes 113 and 114 is visually confirmed through this see-through part, and it is judged whether the ion eluting unit 100 has reached the time of replacement | exchange.

In providing the see-through part in the case 110, the whole case 110 may be formed of transparent synthetic resin, and the whole of the electrodes 113 and 114 may be viewed. Alternatively, a slit in which a transparent plate is inserted may be provided on the front of the case 110 to look at the electrodes 113 and 114 through the slit.

The material forming the see-through portion does not need to be completely transparent, but may be translucent. The yaw needs only to know the size (length) of the electrodes 113 and 114 inside.

In the see-through part, a scale for determining the reduction of the electrodes 113 and 114 may be provided. Since the length from the source to the tip of the electrodes 113 and 114 is a measure of the decrease, it is sufficient to create a scale that is linearly aligned from the tip of the electrode toward the source of the electrode. Among the scales, the scale which is the target of the exchange of the ion elution unit 100 may be particularly large or the shape may be changed so that the replacement timing can be determined at a glance.

Only the ion elution unit 100 requires replacement, and replacement of the power supply unit 101 is not necessary. Therefore, the connector part which can be detachably attached in the middle of the feed cable 119 may be provided, and only the ion elution unit 100 may be replaced with a new one, and the power supply unit 101 may be able to continue using the former.

The power supply unit 101 may use a battery as a power source instead of a commercial power source. The battery may be stored in the case of the power supply unit 101. According to this configuration, the antibacterial treatment can be performed even in places where commercial power is not available, such as campsites or houses where commercial power is supplied but the number of outlets is insufficient.

[Embodiment 2]

Then, 2nd Embodiment of this invention is described based on FIG. 10 is a vertical sectional view of the ion eluting unit 100. In addition, the code | symbol same as what was used for description of 1st Embodiment is attached | subjected to the component which commons or functions common to 1st Embodiment, and description is abbreviate | omitted.

The case 110 of the ion eluting unit 100 of the second embodiment is provided with a grid-like water passage 110a at one end thereof. Like the first embodiment, the openings differentiated by the "inlet" and "outlet" are not provided. The size of each opening of the water passage 110a is set so that a finger or the like does not touch the electrodes 113 and 114. The hook 110b is integrally molded to the side surface of the case 110. As in the ion eluting unit 100 of the first embodiment, water does not enter the interior of the waterproof cap 118, and the ion eluting unit 100 can be completely submerged.

The ion eluting unit 100 submerses at least half of the case 110 in the rinsing water of the washing tub 30 to be used. This intrudes water into the case 110 through the water outlet 110a. Invaded water is led to the electrodes 113 and 114 to wet it. Here, a voltage is applied to the electrodes 113 and 114 to elute metal ions. Water containing metal ions flows out through the water outlet 110a.

The ion eluting unit 100 may be simply used in water or may be used by hooking the hook 110b to the dehydration hole 31. In addition, the ion eluting unit 100 may be hung by hanging a string or the like on the hook 110b. If the hook 110b is hooked on the case 110 and the case 110 is used vertically, the electrodes 113 and 114 are not submerged in water unless the air flows out of the case 110, and thus the cap of the case 110 is used. It is good to provide an air removal hole at the end near (117).

The ion eluting unit 100 of the second embodiment submerges the case 110, introduces water into the case 110 through the water passage 110a, soaks the electrodes 113 and 114 in water, and elutes metal ions. Since it is performed, it is not necessary to install a special structure in the washing machine 1 to attach or retain the ion eluting unit 100. It is not necessary to connect the water supply hose 180 to the ion elution unit 100.

In addition, since ion elution is performed in the water collected in the washing tank 30, a homogeneous ion content can be produced. Therefore, metal ions are uniformly attached to the laundry and antibacterial effect without stains can be obtained.

In addition, when the capacity of the ion eluting unit 100 decreases over a long period of time, it is solved by simply discarding the old unit and using a new unit.

In addition, the washing tank 30 of the washing machine 1 is not only capable of submerging the ion eluting unit 100. As long as the container can contain the case 110 of the ion elution unit 100, any metal ion-containing water can be generated using, for example, a bucket, a washbasin, a cup, and the like. Therefore, in the case where only one handkerchief is desired to be treated with antibacterial treatment, a small amount of metal ion-containing water can be produced in a small container sufficient to soak one handkerchief, thereby not wasting water resources.

If the power supply unit 101 of the ion elution unit 100 of the second embodiment is driven by a battery, the antibacterial treatment device acquires complete portability. Therefore, it is possible to carry out antibacterial treatment of clothing and others in the place of outdoor activity, and the use expands.

As described in the first embodiment, a conversion table comparing the driving time of the ion eluting unit 100 required to elute an appropriate amount of metal ions with respect to the amount and the amount thereof is used for the ion eluting unit 100 or the power supply unit 101. It may be formed on the surface of the. The user can set a timer based on this conversion table, and generate the metal ion containing water of an appropriate density | concentration.

[Embodiment 3]

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figs. In addition, the same member number is attached | subjected to the structure similar to the structure of Embodiment 1 * 2, and the description is abbreviate | omitted.

FIG. 11: is explanatory drawing which shows typically the connection relationship of the said antimicrobial processing apparatus 200 when the antimicrobial processing apparatus 200 which concerns on this embodiment is applied to the washing machine 1. As shown in FIG. The antimicrobial processing apparatus 200 of this embodiment is equipped with the ion eluting unit 300 and the drive unit 400.

The ion eluting unit 300 is an ion generating unit that generates metal ions (eg, silver ions) to be added to water supplied to a water supply object (eg, laundry) by the washing machine 1 as a water supply device.

The ion eluting unit 300 is connected via the tap 201 of the tap water and the first hose 202, and is also connected through the washing machine 1 and the second hose 203. Thereby, the water supplied from the tap 201 is supplied to the washing machine 1 through the 1st hose 202, the ion elution unit 300, and the 2nd hose 203 in order.

From such an arrangement of the ion eluting unit 300, it can be said that the ion eluting unit 300 is disposed outside the washing machine 1 in the water supply path from the faucet 201 to the washing machine 1. As described above, the greatest feature of the present invention is that the ion eluting unit 300 can be attached and disposed later on the outside of the washing machine 1, not inside the washing machine 1.

The drive unit 400 is for driving the ion elution unit 300, and removal is freely arranged outside the washing machine 1. For example, the drive unit 400 is hanged by a hook affixed to the wall near the washing machine 1 or the outer surface of the washing machine 1, and the removal thereof is freely possible.

Moreover, the outer peripheral part of the drive unit 400 is sealed by the sealing member, and is waterproof. As a result, the drive unit 400 is disposed next to the apparatus (washing machine 1) that handles water as in the present embodiment, and the drive unit is located at a place where water is leaked, a place where water splashes, or a place having high humidity. Even when 400 is disposed, the drive unit 400 can be reliably operated without adversely affecting the internal circuit of the drive unit 400 by water, moisture, or the like.

In addition, when arrange | positioning the drive unit 400 to the outer surface of the washing machine 1, it does not use a hook as mentioned above but may be as follows. That is, a magnet having a magnetic force that does not affect the internal circuit is disposed on the rear surface of the drive unit 400, that is, on the side opposite to the washing machine 1 in the drive unit 400, and the It is a matter of course that the drive unit 400 can be freely disposed on the outer surface of the washing machine 1 by magnetic force.

In addition, the drive unit 400 is electrically connected to the ion eluting unit 300 through the cord 500. Thereby, the voltage for driving the ion eluting unit 300 can be supplied from the drive unit 400 to the ion eluting unit 300 via the cord 500.

Hereinafter, before demonstrating the detail of the ion elution unit 300 and the drive unit 400, the 1st hose 202 and the 2nd hose 203 are demonstrated first.

(1.the first hose)

12 is a side view illustrating a schematic configuration of the first hose 202. The first hose 202 connects the faucet 201 and the ion elution unit 300 of the water supply, and has a flexible hose body 210, a first connection part 211, and a second connection part 212. It consists of).

(1-1.First connection part)

The 1st connection part 211 is provided in the one end of the hose main body 210, and is connected and communicates with the tap 201 of water supply. As shown in FIG. 13, the 1st connection part 211 is comprised so that the fastening part 221 and the movable means 222 are separable.

First, the fastening part 221 is demonstrated. The fastening part 221 is comprised from the metal fitting 231 and the screw coupling part 232. As shown in FIG.

The bracket 231 is a substantially cylindrical fixing member attached to the tip of the faucet 201 of the tap. Specifically, four screws are arranged equally in the circumferential direction above the outer surface of the metal fittings 231, and the metal fittings 231 are attached to the faucets 201 by fastening them with these screws. 201). Therefore, the bracket 231 can be reliably fastened to the faucet 201 by using a simple tool. As the outer surface of the metal fitting 231, a screw groove is engraved below the screw position. In addition, an elastic member (for example, rubber) for sealing is incorporated in the bracket 231.

The screw engaging portion 232 has a predetermined cylindrical inner space between the first cylindrical portion 232a and the first cylindrical portion 232a having a substantially cylindrical shape formed on an inner surface thereof with a screw groove on the outer surface of the metal fitting 231. It has a substantially cylindrical second cylindrical portion 232b is formed with a. And the screw engaging part is joined by joining the opening part of the hose main body 210 side in these 1st cylindrical part 232a and the 2nd cylindrical part 232b on the said disk along the outer periphery and the inner periphery of a donut-shaped disk. 232 is configured.

The connection pipe 233 which communicates with the 2nd cylindrical part 232b is integrally formed by the bottom part of this screw engaging part 232. As shown in FIG. When the connection pipe 233 is inserted into the movable means 222, the water passing through the fastening portion 221 is guided to the movable means 222 through the connection pipe 233. On the outer surface of the connecting pipe 233, a groove portion 233a (see Fig. 14) is formed in which the steel ball 241a, which will be described later, of the movable means 222 is slightly removed. In addition, on the outer surface of the first cylindrical portion 232a of the screw engaging portion 232, a blade portion 234 caught by the locking portion 244 described later of the movable means 222 is formed.

On the other hand, the movable means 222 is comprised by the insertion part 241, the movable part 242, the connection part 243, and the locking part 244. As shown in FIG.

The insertion part 241 has a substantially cylindrical shape, and the said connection pipe 233 is inserted in the inside. The inner diameter of the insertion part 241 is substantially the same as the outer diameter of the connection pipe 233. The small diameter steel ball 241a which can move in the direction perpendicular to the center axis of the insertion part 241 (henceforth a radial direction) is formed in the wall part of the insertion part 241 equally in the circumferential direction of a wall part. Four places are installed. This steel ball 241a is formed to have a diameter slightly larger than the thickness of the wall portion.

The movable part 242 covers the insertion part 241 through a some gap from the outside, and is the part which can move along the flow direction of the water which flows inside, and is substantially cylindrical. This movable part 242 is pressed by the press means 245 (refer FIG. 14), such as a spring, toward the upstream side (opposite to the hose main body 210 side) of a flow direction, and is downstream (hose main body 210). It is possible to push this manually on the side).

The connection part 243 is a part connected in communication with the hose main body 210. The locking part 244 protrudes to the outer surface of the movable part 242, and when the insertion of the connection pipe 233 into the insertion part 241 is completed, it hangs the blade base 234 of the fastening part 221. .

In the above configuration, when fixing the first hose 202 to the faucet 201, the fastening portion 221 is first fixed to the faucet 201 of the tap. That is, the bracket 231 is fixed to the faucet 201 by screw fixing, and the screw groove of the bracket 231 and the screw groove of the screw engaging portion 232 are screwed to fix them.

Thereafter, the insertion portion 241 is inserted into the connection pipe 233 of the fastening portion 221 while manually pushing the movable portion 242 of the movable means 222 downward. At this time, the steel ball 241a does not have any pressing force in the radial direction of the insertion portion 241, so that the connecting pipe 233 drives the steel hole 241a outward in the radial direction, and thus the insertion portion 241 Is inserted into the inside of.

When the hand is released from the movable portion 242 when the insertion is completed, as shown in FIG. 14, the movable portion 242 moves in the direction of the fastening portion 221 by the pressing force of the pressing means 245. At this time, the inner surface of the movable portion 242 is in contact with the steel ball 241a of the insertion portion 241, and a pressing force is applied inwardly from the radially outward with respect to the steel ball 241a. Thereby, the steel ball 241a falls into the groove part 233a of the connection pipe 233 inserted into the insertion part 241, and is pressed, and the fastening part 221 and the movable means 222 are mutually fixed. At the same time, the bottom portion 234 of the fastening portion 221 is caught by the locking portion 244 of the movable means 222 to ensure that the movable means 222 is removed from the fastening portion 221. Is prevented.

On the other hand, when separating the fastening part 221 and the movable means 222, the movable part 242 is manually pushed down to the flow direction downstream, releasing the engagement of the locking part 244 and the blade | wing part 234 manually. . As a result, the pressing on the steel ball 241a by the movable portion 242 is released, so that the pressing of the connecting pipe 233 by the steel ball 241a is released. Therefore, the connection pipe 233 can be pulled out from the insertion part 241, and the fastening part 221 and the movable means 222 can be isolate | separated.

Thus, the 1st connection part 211 has the fastening part 221 attached to the tap 201 of water supply, and the movable means 222 which can be removable with respect to the connection pipe 233 of this fastening part 221, The movable means 222 is connected to (a) the insertion portion 241 into which the connection tube 233 is inserted, and (b) the hose main body 210 so as to be movable in the inserting / removing direction of the connection tube 233. By moving at the time of insertion into the insertion part 241 of the pipe 233, the movable part 242 which presses the pressing member (steel ball 241a) provided in the insertion part 241 in the direction which contacts a connection pipe 233 is pressed. It is a configuration.

By using such movable means 222, the fastening part 221 and the hose main body 210 can be connected or disconnected by one touch of the movable means 222. FIG. Therefore, even a woman (housewife) and a person with weak strength can be easily detached from both of them.

In particular, as described above, when the pressing means 245 is provided on the movable means 222 to press the movable portion 242 toward the upstream side in the flow direction, the movable portion 242 can be easily moved by the pressing force. Since it can move, the steel hole 241a can be easily pushed to the connection pipe 233 by the movement to the flow direction upstream of the movable part 242. FIG. As a result, fixing of the connection pipe 233 and the movable means 222 can be realized more easily.

Moreover, although the structure which moves the movable part 242 by a screw type can also be considered as the movable means 222, the means demonstrated by this embodiment is usable, and there is no worry of loosening, and fixing is ensured.

In addition, although the case where the metal fitting 231 and the screw engagement part 232 are separable in the fastening part 221 was mentioned above, these may be comprised integrally from the beginning. In this case, the fastening part 221 can be attached to the faucet 201 only by inserting the metal fitting 231 in the front-end | tip of the faucet 201, and fastening a screw.

In addition, what corresponds to the metal fitting 231 may be stuck to the tap 201 of a water supply originally. In this case, the fastening part 221 does not need the bracket 231, and can be comprised only by the screw engaging part 232. In this case, since the bracket 231 becomes unnecessary and the number of parts is reduced, the product cost can be lowered.

As mentioned above, the fastening part 221 of the 1st connection part 211 of this embodiment is (a) the metal fitting 231 and the screw coupling part 232 detachable or integrally comprised, or (b) It can be said that it can be configured only with a screw engaging portion 232 that can be screwed and the bracket attached to the faucet 201 of.

In addition, depending on the tap 201 of a water supply, what corresponded to the screw engagement part 232 mentioned above may be previously formed. In this case, the first connection portion 211 is constituted only by the movable means 222, so that the faucet 201 of the water supply can be coped with, and the cost of the product can be lowered as the fastening portion 221 is unnecessary.

(1-2.2nd connection part)

The second connecting portion 212 of the first hose 202 is provided at the other end of the hose main body 210 and is in communication with the ion eluting unit 300. In this embodiment, the 2nd connection part 212 is the structure exactly the same as the movable means 222 of the 1st connection part 211 mentioned above.

Therefore, what is necessary is just as follows when connecting the 1st hose 202 and the ion elution unit 300 to communicate. First, as shown in Fig. 15A, the movable part 242 is manually moved to the hose main body 210 side (flow direction in the upstream side), and is held in the first hose 202. The first connecting portion 302 of the ion eluting unit 300 is inserted into the insertion portion 241 of the movable means 222 of the connecting portion 212.

As shown in Fig. 15B, when the insertion is completed, the hand is released from the movable portion 242, and the movable portion 242 is moved to the ion eluting unit 300 by the pressing force of the pressing means 245. To the side. Thereby, the movable part 242 presses the steel ball 241a toward the radially inner side of the insertion part 241, and the steel ball 241a is formed in the outer surface of the connection pipe 302a of the 1st connection part 302. As shown in FIG. The first connection portion 302 is pushed down by entering the groove portion 302c (see Fig. 15A). As a result, the second connecting portion 212 and the first connecting portion 302 are fixed.

In addition, when the 1st hose 202 and the ion elution unit 300 are isolate | separated, the movable part 242 is moved to the hose main body 210 side (flow direction upstream side) manually, 1 It is good to release the press of the connection part 302. Thereby, the 1st connection part 302 can be pulled out from the insertion part 241, and the 1st hose 202 and the ion elution unit 300 can be isolate | separated.

In this way, since the second connecting portion 212 includes the movable means 222, the first hose 202 and the ion elution unit 300 are connected or disconnected by one touch of the movable means 222. can do. Therefore, the same effect as the case where the 1st connection part 211 is provided, such that both can be easily attached or detached can be acquired.

(Second hose)

The second hose 203 shown in FIG. 11 connects the ion eluting unit 300 and the washing machine 1 as a water supply apparatus. The 2nd hose 203 is comprised from the flexible hose main body, and the 1st connection part and 2nd connection part provided in the both ends of this hose main body, respectively.

Here, the hose body of the second hose 203 corresponds to the hose body 210 of the first hose 202. In addition, the 1st connection part and the 2nd connection part of the 2nd hose 203 are comprised only the movable means 222 which comprises the 1st connection part 211 or the 2nd connection part 212 of the 1st hose 202. FIG. . Therefore, the second hose 203 and the ion eluting unit 300 are controlled by the one-touch of the movable means 222 by the same method as in the case where the first hose 202 and the ion eluting unit 300 are connected in communication. ) Can be easily connected or disconnected, and the second hose 203 and the washing machine 1 can be easily connected or disconnected.

The 1st hose 202 and the 2nd hose 203 demonstrated above can be comprised flexibly with rubber | gum, resin, etc. As a result, even when vibration (shock wave) is applied or an external force (high pressure) is applied to the portion that is in communication with the first hose 202 and the second hose 203, the first hose 202 Alternatively, the impact and the like can be alleviated by the flexibility of the second hose 203. Therefore, the burden on the ion eluting unit 300 connected to the 1st hose 202 and the 2nd hose 203 can be reduced, the occurrence of a breakdown etc. can be suppressed, and the worry of leaking in the communication connection part is carried out. There is little, and the reliability of the ion elution unit 300 can be improved.

In addition, although the structure in which the 1st hose 202 and the 2nd hose 203 have the movable means 222 at both ends was demonstrated above, it is not limited to this structure. For example, as shown in Fig. 16, one end of the hose main body 210 (for example, the second connection portion 212) is rotatable about the flow direction in the hose main body 210 in the axis. The cap-shaped connection part cut off the screw groove may be provided in the inner surface, and the 1st hose 202 and the 2nd hose 203 may be comprised. In addition, this cap-type connection part may be provided in the both ends (the 1st connection part 211 and the 2nd connection part 212) of the hose main body 210. FIG.

For example, the to-be-connected part in the connection object (faucet 201, ion elution unit 300, washing machine 1) of the 1st hose 202 and the 2nd hose 203 is a screw groove on the outer surface. In the case where the cylindrical shape is formed into a cylindrical shape, the first hose 202 and the second hose 203 having such a structure can be easily connected or separated from each other by rotation of the cap-shaped connecting portion. have. In addition, compared with the configuration in FIG. 12, the number of parts in the connecting portion can be reduced, and the product cost can be lowered.

Further, depending on the configuration of the ion eluting unit 300, the first hose 202 is directly connected to the ion eluting unit 300, or the first hose 202 is screwed or locked through the fastening portion of the ion eluting unit 300. You may be connected to (300).

(3. Ion elution unit)

Next, the detailed structure of the ion elution unit 300 is demonstrated.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the ion eluting unit 300 to which the first hose 202 is connected. 18 to 20 are front views of the ion eluting unit 300 and the ion eluting unit when the ion eluting unit 300 is connected to the tap 201 of the water supply via the first hose 202. Sectional view when seen from the back of 300, and sectional view when seen from the side are shown, respectively.

The ion eluting unit 300 has a casing 300a formed by joining two baskets that can be brought into contact with each other in the flow direction of water flowing therein. By this case 300a, the connection part of the ion elution unit 300 and the 1st hose 202 is hidden, and it does not spoil an external appearance.

21 is a sectional view showing the internal structure of the ion eluting unit 300 in detail when the ion eluting unit 300 is viewed from the front, and FIG. 22 is a side view of the ion eluting unit 300 when viewed from the side. , It is sectional drawing which shows the internal structure of the ion elution unit 300 in detail.

As shown in these figures, the ion eluting unit 300 has a unit main body 301, a first connecting portion 302, and a second connecting portion 303. Hereinafter, each structure is demonstrated.

(3-1.First connection part)

The 1st connection part 302 connects the 1st hose 202 mentioned above and the unit main body 301, and is integrally formed with the unit main body 301. As shown in FIG. This 1st connection part 302 is comprised from the connection pipe 302a and the blade | wing part 302b.

The connecting pipe 302a is inserted into the insertion portion 241 of the second connecting portion 212 of the first hose 202. The blade portion 302b is caught by the locking portion 244 of the first hose 202 when the connecting pipe 302a is inserted into the insertion portion 241, whereby Leaving from the ion elution unit 300 is reliably prevented.

Here, you may comprise the 1st connection part 302 as follows. 23 is an exploded perspective view showing another configuration example of the first connecting portion 302. This first connecting portion 302 is composed of a metal fitting 304 and a screw engaging portion 305. The bracket 304 has the same configuration as the bracket 231 of the first connecting portion 211 of the first hose 202.

In addition, the screw coupling portion 305 has the same configuration as that of the screw coupling portion 232 of the first connecting portion 211. That is, the screw engaging portion 305 is formed on the inner side of the first cylindrical portion 305a and the first cylindrical portion 305a having a substantially cylindrical shape formed on the inner surface thereof with a screw groove for screwing the outer surface of the metal fitting 304. It has a substantially cylindrical second cylindrical portion 305b formed at predetermined intervals. And the screw engaging part is joined by joining the opening part of the unit main body 301 side in these 1st cylindrical part 305a and the 2nd cylindrical part 305b on the said disk so that the outer periphery and the inner periphery of a donut-shaped disk may be followed. 305 is configured.

The unit main body 301 which communicates with the 2nd cylindrical part 305b is integrally formed in the bottom part of the screw engaging part 305. As shown in FIG. The second cylindrical portion 305b is formed in a shape that can be inserted into the insertion portion 241 of the movable means 222 of the first hose 202.

With this structure, the ion eluting unit 300 and the first hose 202 are connected by inserting and fixing the second cylindrical portion 305b to the insertion portion 241 of the first hose 202. As a result, the ion eluting unit 300 can be connected to the faucet 201 of the water supply via the first hose 202.

On the other hand, by screwing the bracket 304 to the faucet 201 and screwing the screw groove of the bracket 304 with the screw groove of the first cylindrical portion 305a, the first hose 202 is not used. The ion eluting unit 300 can also be directly connected to the faucet 201.

Therefore, according to the structure of such a 1st connection part 302, when connecting the faucet 201 and the ion elution unit 300, it is easy to use both the case of using the 1st hose 202, and when not using. Can cope.

(3-2.2nd connection part)

As shown in FIG. 21 and FIG. 22, the 2nd connection part 303 connects the 2nd hose 203 (refer FIG. 11) and the unit main body 301 mentioned above, and connects with the unit main body 301. FIG. It is formed integrally. This 2nd connection part 303 is comprised from the connection pipe 303a and the blade | wing part 303b.

The connecting pipe 303a is inserted into the insertion portion of the first connecting portion of the second hose 203. The blade 303b is caught by the locking portion of the second hose 203 when the connecting pipe 303a is inserted into the insertion portion, and thereby the ion eluting unit of the second hose 203. Leaving from 300 is surely prevented.

In addition, the connection pipe 303a is also formed in the shape fitted to the connection pipe 51 (refer FIG. 1) of the washing machine 1. As shown in FIG.

With this structure, the ion eluting unit 300 and the second hose 203 are connected by inserting and fixing the connection pipe 303a to the insertion portion 241 of the second hose 203. Therefore, the ion eluting unit 300 can communicate with the washing machine 1 via the second hose 203. On the other hand, when the connection pipe 303a is inserted into the connection pipe 51 of the washing machine 1, the ion eluting unit 300 and the washing machine 1 can also be directly connected.

Therefore, according to the said structure of the 2nd connection part 303, in connecting and connecting the ion elution unit 300 and the washing machine 1, both when using the 2nd hose 203 and when not using it, Can cope easily.

As mentioned above, by providing the above-mentioned 1st connection part 302 and the 2nd connection part 303 in the ion elution unit 300, the ion elution unit 300 can also be easily connected to the 1st hose 202 or water structure structurally. In addition to being able to communicate with the faucet 201, the ion eluting unit 300 can be connected with the second hose 203 or the washing machine 1. Therefore, the product cost of the ion elution unit 300 can be lowered.

(3-3.Unit body)

The unit main body 301 is formed of an insulating material (for example, resin), and water supplied from the faucet 201 flows therein and is supplied to the washing machine 1. The unit main body 301 contains a pair of electrodes 311 and 312, and has corresponding terminal portions 313 and 314 and detection portions 315 of the electrodes 311 and 312, respectively.

(3-3-1.electrode)

The electrodes 311 and 312 are each composed of, for example, a flat silver plate having a thickness of about 1 cm x 3 cm and a thickness of about 0.5 mm, and the upstream side of the water flowing in the unit main body 301 (Figs. 21 and 22). It is arrange | positioned in the unit main body 301 so that the space | interval of mutually opposing surfaces may narrow from the upper side to the downstream side (lower side in FIG. 21 and FIG. 22).

Metal ions are eluted from the electrodes 311 and 312 by applying a voltage between the pair of electrodes 311 and 312 through the cord 500 and the terminal portions 313 and 314 from the drive unit 400 described later. . The metal ions are added to the water flowing inside the unit main body 301, and the water is supplied to the washing machine 1 as the metal ion added water.

As a metal which comprises the electrodes 311 and 312, it is preferable that they are silver copper, zinc, or their alloys. Silver ions eluted from the silver electrode and zinc ions eluted from the zinc electrode have an excellent bactericidal effect, and copper ions eluted from the copper electrode have excellent antifungal properties. Further, from these alloys, ions of the component metals can be eluted at the same time, so that excellent sterilization and antifungal effects can be obtained. Therefore, by constructing the electrodes 311 and 312 from a suitable metal, the effects inherent in the metal ions can be obtained.

In addition, the electrodes 311 and 312 of both sides do not necessarily need to be comprised of the same metal, and one electrode may be comprised by an insoluble electrode (for example, titanium) or a carbon electrode.

Here, if it demonstrates concretely about the antimicrobial mechanism in the case where the electrodes 311 and 312 are made into silver electrodes, it is as follows.

For example, the smell of clothing when sweating is caused by the growth of bacteria. Sweat is odorless in nature and contains glycerides composed of fatty acids and glycerin as one of its components. However, as the bacteria decompose the glycerides, fatty acids decomposed from glycerides smell.

However, the electrodes 311 and 312 when the electrode, by applying a voltage to the electrodes, Ag → Ag ⁺ + e In the electrode of the ^{cathode-side-reaction} of the taking place, the water in the ion is eluted. Since silver ions act on the bacteria causing odor, the bacteria are inactivated, so that the sweat component (glyceride) is not decomposed and odor can be suppressed.

In addition, said inactivation means performing functions, such as sterilization, disinfection, sterilization, decomposition, and removal.

The electrodes 311 and 312 are formed integrally with the unit 301. That is, for example, the electrodes 311 and 312 are placed in the photocurable resin, and the resin is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays or the like. The unit main body 301 integrated with the electrodes 311 and 312 is formed by the method (insertion molding) which cools and hardens by pouring in resin. In addition, by integrally molding, the electrodes 311 and 312 are supported by a part of the inner wall in the unit main body 301.

For example, when the unit main body 301 is comprised by the joining of several basket, there exists a danger that the water inside may leak to the joining part. However, as in this embodiment, by integrally molding the unit main body 301 with the electrodes 311 and 312 included therein, there is no problem of water leakage from the bonded portion, so that the unit main body 301 is sealed. The castle can be maintained well.

By the elution of metal ions (for example, silver ions), the electrodes 311 and 312 are gradually consumed and reduced. As a result, the distance between the electrodes 311 and 312 is increased, and the surface area of the electrodes 311 and 312 is also narrowed. In this case, in order to secure a predetermined metal ion elution amount, the voltage required to flow the same current through the electrodes 311 and 312 increases. However, the voltage that can be supplied also has an upper limit. When the voltage reaches the upper limit, the current flowing through the electrodes 311 and 312 falls this time. In this case, the amount of metal ions eluted decreases, and it becomes impossible to secure metal ions at a predetermined concentration. Therefore, in order to reliably obtain the antibacterial effect by the metal ions, it is necessary to replace the electrodes 311 and 312 with new ones at the stage where the elution amount of the metal ions cannot be secured.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the electrodes 311 and 312 are integrally molded with the unit main body 301, so that each unit main body 301 is replaced with a new one. That is, the unit main body 301 of this embodiment is a disposable type. In this way, the unit can be replaced as a unit, thereby preventing misassembly of the electrode, deformation of the electrode, and the like at the time of electrode replacement by the user, and the replacement can be easily and safely for the user.

In addition, in this embodiment, although the unit main body 301 demonstrated the example which has a pair (two sheets) of electrodes 311 and 312, the number of electrodes is not limited to this. Even if the unit main body 301 has two or more sheets of electrodes, the effect of the present invention can be obtained by applying a voltage to these electrodes and eluting metal ions from the electrodes.

(3-3-2.Terminal part)

The terminal portions 313 and 314 are terminals for electrically connecting the electrodes 311 and 312 and the drive unit 400 and are provided through the side wall of the unit main body 301. One end of these terminal portions 313 and 314 is electrically connected to the electrodes 311 and 312 by, for example, silver soldering, and the other end is electrically connected to the drive unit 400 through the cord 500. . In addition, said silver soldering uses silver alloys, such as silver, copper, and zinc as a soldering material, and melt | dissolves the solder material which melts at a lower temperature than a base material, and adheres a metal to a base material, without melting the metal of a base material. It is a way.

In the present embodiment, the terminal portions 313 and 314 are configured in a shape such that at least the cross section of the penetrating portion with the unit main body 301 becomes circular. In this configuration, the internal pressure (water pressure) in the unit main body 301 is uniformly applied in the circumferential direction of the penetrating portion, resulting in a structure in which leakage is unlikely to occur even with high water pressure. As a result, the ion eluting unit 300 can be used with confidence. Moreover, even if such a structure is adopted, there is almost no production variation of the ion elution unit 300, and the margin of production can be increased.

In particular, in this embodiment, the terminal parts 313 and 314 are formed in the circumferential shape of circular cross section over the whole axial direction. And the penetration part with the unit main body 301 in the terminal parts 313 and 314 is sealed by sealing members 313a and 314a (refer FIG. 19), such as an O-ring. Since the terminal portions 313 and 314 are formed in a circumferential shape, it is easy to insert the sealing members 313a and 314a, and the sealing property at the through portion can be reliably obtained.

(3-3-3.Detection)

The detecting unit 315 is a detecting unit that detects at least one of the presence or absence of water flow in the unit main body 301 and, in the present embodiment, in the flow direction of the unit main body 301 rather than the electrodes 311 and 312. It is installed upstream. This detector 315 has a rotor 316 (see FIG. 24), a magnet 317, and a magnetic detector 318.

24 is a perspective view showing the rotor 316 in an enlarged manner. The rotor 316 is rotated by the passage of water in the unit main body 301 and has the rotation shaft part 321 in the direction through which water flows. This rotating shaft part 321 is supported by the bearing not shown. And the two blade | wings 322 which receive water are respectively fixed to the rotating shaft part 321 in the position which becomes symmetrical with each other. As water flowing in the unit main body 301 flows while touching each blade 322, each blade 322 receives a force in a rotational direction about the rotation shaft portion 321, thereby rotating the rotor 316. ) The whole is rotated about the rotation shaft 321.

Moreover, the rotor 316 has two cup-shaped accommodating parts 323, and the rotating shaft part 321 is a position where the bottom part on the opposite side to the opening part 323a in each accommodating part 323 becomes mutually symmetrical. Are fixed to each. The magnet 317 is contained in at least one of the two housing portions 323. When the magnet 317 is accommodated only in one accommodating part 323, the other accommodating part 323 contains a weight 319 equal in weight to the magnet 317, thereby rotating the rotor 316. The balance of time is maintained. The opening part 323a of each accommodating part 323 is closed by the lid which is not shown in figure.

The magnetic detection unit 318 (see Fig. 22) detects at least one of the presence and absence of water flow in the unit main body 301 based on the magnetic change of the magnet 317 by the rotation of the rotor 316. It is provided in the unit main body 301 side. The magnetic detection unit 318 is formed of, for example, a hole IC that detects the magnetic change of the magnet 317 in a non-contact manner through a resin forming a wall of the unit body 301.

By the above structure, when the rotor 316 rotates by flowing water in the unit main body 301, the magnetic field (magnetic flux, magnetic field) generated from the magnet 317 also changes. This magnetic change is detected by the magnetic detection unit 318 in a non-contact manner, so that the presence or absence of water flow in the unit main body 301 can be detected.

In addition, the magnetic detection unit 318 detects how many times the magnetic change is periodically changed per unit time, so that the rotation speed per unit time of the rotor 316 can be detected, and the inside of the unit main body 301 The flow rate of the flowing water can be detected.

That is, by configuring the detection unit 315 as described above, it is possible to reliably detect at least one of the presence and absence of water flow in the unit main body 301 based on the magnetic change of the magnet 317.

Moreover, since the detection part 315 is comprised by the rotor 316 (rotating element) which rotates by the passage of the water in the unit main body 301, even if the flow volume of water is small, the presence or absence of the flow of water is made easy and reliable. It can be detected. Moreover, since the rotation speed of the rotor 316 changes with the flow volume of the flowing water, the magnetic detection part 318 can detect the detection signal according to the flow volume, and can detect the flow volume of water with high precision.

By the way, in this embodiment, although the detection part 315 mentioned above is provided integrally with the unit main body 301, you may be provided detachably with respect to the unit main body 315. FIG. That is, the detection part 315 and the unit main body 301 may be comprised separately, and it may be set as the structure which combines these. In this case, even when it is necessary to replace the unit main body 301 by exhausting the electrodes 311 and 312 in the unit main body 301, the detection part 315 is solved without replacing. As a result, the detection part 315 can be used effectively, and the cost incurred at the time of unit replacement can be suppressed.

In addition, the installation position of the detection part 315 is not limited to the above-mentioned flow direction upstream of the electrode 311, 312 in the unit main body 301, and may be downstream. In addition, the detection part 315 may be provided in the outflow direction variable part 306 (refer FIG. 26) mentioned later. In addition, the detection part 315 may be provided in the 1st connection part 302, may be provided in the 2nd connection part 303, if it is on the supply path of the water from the tap 201 of the water supply to the washing machine 1, and also ion It may be provided outside the elution unit 300 (for example, the first hose 202 or the second hose 203).

Moreover, it is good also as a structure which makes the rotating shaft part 321 of the rotor 316 intersect the direction which flows water, and rotates the rotor 316 like aberration.

In addition, in this embodiment, although the example which comprised the detection part 315 by the rotation detection type using the rotor 316 was demonstrated, you may of course configure in a flow type.

The flow type is a method of detecting the flow of water by moving the moving object supported by the spring in the flow path, when the water flows, the moving object is moved by the flow, and the movement of the moving object is detected by a suitable sensor. For example, if a magnet is placed in the moving body and the magnetic detection unit (hole IC) is placed at the position where the moving body moves when water flows, the flow of water can be detected by the magnetic detection. When the detection unit 315 is configured in a flow manner, the magnetic detection unit does not depend on the rotational speed of the rotor 316, but is good for detection of magnetic change with and without water flow. ) Can be reliably detected even if the response speed is slow.

In view of the above, the detector 315 is a magnetic detector that detects the presence or absence of water flow by detecting the magnetism of the movable body moving along the flow of water, the magnets contained in the movable body, and the magnet at the position where the movable body moves. It may be said that it may be comprised.

(3-4.Effect)

The antibacterial treatment device of the present embodiment described above generates metal ions (for example, silver ions) added to water supplied to a water supply object (for example, laundry) by a water supply device (for example, the washing machine 1). An antimicrobial processing apparatus 200 having an ion generating unit (for example, an ion eluting unit 300), wherein the ion generating unit is provided from the outside of the water supply device and from the tap 201 of the water supply to the water supply device. The removal is freely provided in the water supply passage.

More specifically, the ion generating unit includes an ion eluting unit 300 containing a pair of electrodes 311 and 312 and having a unit body 301 through which the water flows, and the ion eluting unit 300. (A) The first connection part 302 for connecting the unit main body 301 with the tap 201 of a tap, or the 1st hose 202 which the water supplied from the tap 201 flows, b) The unit main body 301 has a second hose through which the water supplied to the water supply device flows, or a second connection portion for connecting the water supply device so that removal is freely provided to the supply passage. It is realized.

Therefore, since the ion generating part can be attached later to the exterior of the washing machine 1, even if it is the existing thing which does not have an ion generating part from the beginning as a washing machine 1, it is the thing equivalent to the washing machine 1 equipped with an ion generating part. It can be easily realized. Therefore, the wasteful opening of the washing machine 1 called the opening to the washing machine 1 provided with the ion generating unit is unnecessary, and the existing washing machine 1 can be effectively used. In addition, since the ion generating unit can be freely removed from the supply path of the water to the washing machine 1, the ion generating unit can be easily replaced.

Moreover, since the ion eluting unit 300 has the above-mentioned 1st connection part 302 and the 2nd connection part 303, the ion elution unit 300 can be arrange | positioned outside the washing machine 1 as follows. .

First, the ion elution unit (the elution unit) so that the path through which water passes becomes the faucet 201, the first hose 202, the ion eluting unit 300, the second hose 203, and the washing machine 1 of the tap water. 300 is a method of arranging (connection method in Fig. 11).

Second, the ion elution unit 300 is disposed so that the path through which water passes is the tap 201, the ion elution unit 300, the second hose 203, and the washing machine 1 of the tap water. .

Third, the ion elution unit 300 is arranged so that the path through which water passes is the tap 201, the first hose 202, the ion elution unit 300, and the washing machine 1 of the tap water.

Since the ion eluting unit 300 has the first connecting portion 302 and the second connecting portion 303, as described above, ions are supplied to the water supply path from the tap 201 of the water supply to the washing machine 1. Since the variation of the connection at the time of installing the elution unit 300 increases, the installation method of the ion elution unit 300 according to a user's needs can be implement | achieved.

(3-5. Other configuration of ion elution unit)

(3-5-1.Shape of the unit body)

As mentioned above, although the unit main body 300 of the ion elution unit 300 was formed in the shape extended vertically downward according to the flow direction of the water which flows inside, the shape of the unit main body 301 is this. It is not limited. For example, as shown in FIG. 25, the unit main body 301 changes the flow direction of the water flowing in the inside by bending the part of the downstream side of the flow direction from the electrodes 311 and 312, for example, by 90 degrees. It may be formed as. That is, the unit main body 301 may be formed in the shape which water flows out in the direction different from the inflow direction of the water which flows into the unit main body 301. 25 shows an example in which the ion eluting unit 300 is directly connected to the tap 201 of a tap.

In this configuration, since the outflow direction of the water from the ion elution unit 300 can be changed from the vertical direction to, for example, the horizontal direction, the second connected to the second connection portion 303 of the ion elution unit 300. It is easy to drag and move around the hose 203. That is, even when the distance between the connection pipe 51 of the washing machine 1 and the ion eluting unit 300 is too close, the second hose 203 is bypassed without forcibly bending the second hose 203 so as to bypass the ion eluting unit 300. Since the washing machine 1 can be connected, the physical burden on the 2nd hose 203 becomes small.

(3-5-2. Outflow direction variable part)

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 26, the outflow direction variable part 306 which changes the outflow direction of the water from the unit main body 301 is connected with respect to the unit main body 301, without bending the unit main body 301. FIG. The configuration may be.

This outflow direction variable part 306 is comprised with the normal pipe bent at about 90 degree | times. One end of the outflow direction variable part 306 is rotatably attached to the second connection part 303 of the ion eluting unit 300, and the second hose 203 (see FIG. 11) is fitted to the other end thereof. Water supplied from the faucet 201 of the tap water and flowing vertically downward in the unit body 301 is diverted by about 90 degrees in the outflow direction variable part 306 to flow in the horizontal direction, and the second hose 203 flows. Since it is supplied to the washing machine 1 through, the second hose 203 can be dragged around freely, so as to avoid the peripheral wall of the washing machine 1, etc., and the ion elution unit 300 can be easily used. have.

In addition, since the outflow direction variable part 306 is rotatably provided with respect to the 2nd connection part 303 of the ion elution unit 300, the outflow direction of the water from the ion elution unit 300 depends on the installation place. It can be freely selected, and the ion elution unit 300 can be made easier to use.

Further, for example, it is also possible to provide a unit in which the state display unit 402 (see Fig. 27) of the drive unit 400 described later is provided in the outflow direction variable part 306, but in this case, the outflow direction variable When the unit 306 is rotated, the status display unit 402 can be placed at a position that is easy for the user to see, and the visibility thereof can be improved.

In addition, as shown in Fig. 26, on the outer surface of the outflow direction variable part 306, a locking part 306a for hanging the base 303b of the second connection part 303 of the ion elution unit 300 is provided. With this configuration, it is possible to reliably prevent the escape from the second connection portion 303 of the outflow direction variable portion 306.

(3-5-3. Inclined arrangement of the unit body)

Although the unit main body 301 of the structure mentioned above is arrange | positioned through which the water flows vertically downward, it is not limited to this arrangement. For example, the structure which arrange | positions the unit main body 301 inclination, ie, the structure which arrange | positions the unit main body 301 so that the water which flows inside may incline with respect to a vertical direction, may be sufficient. In addition, the concept that water flows inclined with respect to a vertical direction shall also include the case where water flows in a horizontal direction (facing sideward).

According to this structure, the dimension of the height direction (vertical direction) of the unit main body 301 and also the ion eluting unit 300 can be suppressed, without changing the magnitude | size of the electrodes 311 and 312. As shown in FIG. Accordingly, there is no room in the height space between the faucet 201 and the washing machine 1 of the water supply while the elution capacity of the metal ions equivalent to that of the case where the ion dissolution unit 300 is disposed so that the flow direction becomes the vertical direction. Even in this case, the ion eluting unit 300 can be easily attached without touching the peripheral devices or walls. As a result, the choice of the installation place of the ion elution unit 300 can be expanded.

(3-5-4.the first filter)

As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, a first filter 331 which removes impurities in the water upstream in the flow direction of the electrodes 311 and 312 in the unit body 301 of the ion elution unit 300. ) May be provided.

According to this configuration, impurities such as garbage in the water and metal debris can be blocked by the first filter 331, so that such impurities are attached to the electrodes 311 and 312 or blocked between the electrodes 311 and 312. It can prevent. As a result, damage caused by adhesion of impurities (for example, reduction of the amount of elution of metal ions) can be prevented.

Moreover, especially the 1st filter 331 is preferable in the structure provided in the inflow port of the water to the ion elution unit 300, ie, the 1st connection part 302. As shown in FIG. In this case, when the ion elution unit 300 is removed from the supply path, there is an advantage that the user can easily clean the first filter, and the management is easy. In addition, compared with the structure in which the extraction part for taking out the 1st filter 331 is provided in the ion elution unit 300, the number of parts can be suppressed so that such extraction part is unnecessary, and the sealing degree required in the extraction part is necessary. It is not needed and is solved without the unnecessary worry of leaks.

Moreover, the structure in which the 1st filter 331 is provided in the flow direction upstream rather than the detection part 315 is preferable. In this case, impurities such as garbage or metal debris in the water adhere to or are caught in the detection unit 315, thereby preventing damage to detection by the detection unit 315 and preventing malfunction.

In addition, the first filter 331 is not limited to the above-described ion eluting unit 300, but is provided on the water supply path (for example, the first hose 202) between the ion eluting unit 300 and the faucet 201. It may be installed inside). Even in this case, the same effects as described above can be obtained.

(3-5-5.2nd filter)

It is good also as a structure which provides the 2nd filter which removes the impurity in water downstream from the electrodes 311 and 312 in the unit main body 301 of the ion elution unit 300 in the flow direction. This second filter may be installed in the ion eluting unit 300 or may be provided on the water supply path (for example, in the second hose 203) between the ion eluting unit 300 and the washing machine 1. good.

According to this configuration, even if the metal fragments of the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion elution unit 300 flow to the downstream side, it can be prevented by the second filter. As a result, the metal debris can come into contact with the downstream equipment (washing machine 1) or the article (laundry) to prevent the occurrence of harmful effects.

In addition, it is preferable that the second filter is provided at the outlet of the water to the ion eluting unit 300, that is, at the second connecting portion 303. In this case, by removing the ion eluting unit 300 from the supply path, the user can easily clean the second filter and manage it easily. Moreover, compared with the structure which installs the extraction part for taking out a 2nd filter in the ion eluting unit 300, a component number can be suppressed as much as that extraction part is unnecessary, and the sealing required for the extraction part is not required, either. It is solved without the unnecessary worry of leakage.

The second filter may be configured to be downstream from the flow direction in the flow direction than the electrodes 311 and 312, and may be provided in the flow direction in the flow direction upstream from the detection unit 315. That is, the 2nd filter may be comprised between the electrodes 311 and 312 and the detection part 315 downstream of the flow direction. In this case, since the metal fragments of the electrodes 311 and 312 can be prevented from flowing downstream by the second filter, the metal debris touches the detection unit 315 so that the detection unit 315 malfunctions. You can prevent it.

(3-5-6. Separation from the Unit Body of the First and Second Connection Parts)

The first connecting portion 302 described above may be configured to be detachably provided with respect to the unit body 301 containing the electrodes 311 and 312. In addition, the above-described second connecting portion 303 may be configured to be detachably provided with respect to the unit main body 301. In this case, even when the unit main body 301 needs to be replaced due to exhaustion of the electrodes 311 and 312, the first connection part 302 and the second connection part 303 are solved without being replaced. do. As a result, the 1st connection part 302 and the 2nd connection part 303 can be utilized effectively, and the cost incurred at the time of unit replacement can be reduced.

(3-5-7.Generator)

The ion eluting unit 300 of the present embodiment may incorporate a generator that generates power by rotation of the rotor due to water flow in the unit main body 301. At this time, the rotor may be a rotor 316 of the detection unit 315. In this configuration, only when water flows through the unit main body 301, a voltage is automatically applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 by self-generation, and the metal ions can be automatically eluted.

(3-5-8. Other configurations of the ion generating unit)

As mentioned above, although the example which used the ion eluting unit 300 provided with the electrodes 311 and 312 which elutes metal ion as an ion generating part was demonstrated, this invention is not limited to this. The ion eluting unit may be, for example, a metal ion eluting material (such as silver emulsified silver or the like if the silver eluting material is loaded) in the cartridge, and eluted metal ions simply by passing water through the cartridge (without applying voltage). .

(4.drive unit)

Next, the detail of the drive unit 400 is demonstrated.

27A to 27D show a plan view, a front view, a side view, and a rear view, respectively, which illustrate an external configuration of the drive unit 400. 28 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the interior of the drive unit 400. In addition, the basic circuit structure inside the drive unit 400 is substantially the same as the drive circuit 120 of the power supply unit 101 shown in Fig. 9 of the first embodiment.

The drive unit 400 drives the ion eluting unit 300, and includes an operation unit 401, a state display unit 402, a voltage generator 403, a transformer circuit 404, and a power supply voltage detector 405. ), A current detection circuit 406, and a control unit 407. The control unit 407 controls the operations of the units. Further, the back of the drive unit 400 is provided with a hole 400a (see Figs. 27 (c) and 27 (d)) into which a hook attached to the wall or the washing machine 1 is inserted. Hereinafter, the detail of each structure is demonstrated.

(4-1.Control panel)

The operation unit 401 is for the user to perform an operation for switching the operation ON / OFF of the drive unit 400, and is composed of a handle, a lever, a button, and the like. By providing such an operation part 401 in the drive unit 400, a user can install the drive unit 400 in a favorite place which is easy to operate, and can switch operation of the drive unit 400 freely.

In particular, in the present embodiment, as shown in Fig. 27B, the operation portion 401 is configured by a rotary knob. Thereby, the operation state of the drive unit 400 can be confirmed simply by the physical state change of the operation part 401 like rotation. Therefore, there is no need to provide an LED or the like for displaying the operation status of the operation ON / OFF, and no unnecessary power is consumed for such display. In particular, in the case of battery driving, such wasteful power consumption can be effectively used for driving the battery.

On the other hand, the operation unit 401 may be such that the state change is physically performed so that the operation state of the drive unit 400 can be easily visually checked without using power. As the physical state change, in addition to the above-described rotation of the knob, the unevenness of the button, the fall of the lever, the change of the color and the character of the button, and the like can be considered.

(4-2.Status display part)

The state display part 402 displays the operation state of the drive unit 400, and is comprised, for example with LED. Specifically, the status display unit 402 is composed of a battery life indicator lamp 402a and a silver ion elution lamp 402b. The lighting and extinguishing of these lamps are controlled by the control part 407 mentioned later.

The battery life lamp 402a is a lamp that blinks when the battery life of the voltage generator 403 is detected in the power supply voltage detector 405 described later. In addition, in the operation ON state and the OFF state of the drive unit 400, in order to suppress the consumption of the battery when there is remaining battery power, the battery life lamp 402a remains off.

The silver ion display lamp 402b is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion eluting unit 300 to generate a voltage when the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403, which will be described later, is eluted. It's a lamp. Since elution of silver ions is usually invisible to the human eye, the user is surely eluted of silver ions by providing such a silver ion display lamp 402b to the user to know the elution of silver ions. The elution time can be easily recognized, and the antimicrobial treatment apparatus 200 of the present invention can be used with confidence.

Here, when the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion eluting unit 300 are consumed by the elution of silver ions, and the current flowing through the electrodes 311 and 312 decreases for the reasons described above, the electrodes 311 and 312), it can be judged as the life (exchange time). Therefore, when the current detection circuit 406 described later detects that the current flowing through the electrodes 311 and 312 is smaller than the threshold value, the controller 407 determines that the electrodes 311 and 312 are consumed and need to be replaced. , The silver ion display lamp 402b flashes rapidly. Thereby, a user can be recognized that the ion elution unit 300 (unit body 301) needs to be replaced, and the replacement work can be urged to the user.

In addition, when the electrodes 311 and 312 are consumed, in order to avoid the user not knowing that the desired antibacterial treatment cannot be performed, the exchange of the ion elution unit 300 is made to the user rather than being exhausted. It is necessary to give priority to urging. For this reason, the control part 407 continues to display the blinking of the silver ion display lamp 402b until operation of the drive unit 400 is turned off by operation of the operation part 401, or until a battery runs out. Let's do it.

Moreover, when the cord 500 which connects the drive unit 400 and the ion elution unit 300 falls for some reason, although the operation | movement of the drive unit 400 is ON, although the operation | movement of the drive unit 400 is ON, through the cord 500 Since no voltage is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the elution unit 300, no current flows through the electrodes 311 and 312. Therefore, also in this case as described above, based on the detection signal from the current detection circuit 406, the control unit 407 rapidly flashes the silver ion display lamp 402b to report to the user that there is an abnormal state. .

In this way, the control unit 407 may have an abnormal situation (battery life, exhaustion of the electrodes 311 and 312, missing the cord 500, etc.) that causes the elution of the metal ions from the ion eluting unit 300 to occur. At this time, the battery life display lamp 402a and the silver ion elution lamp 402b are continuously displayed (flashing or rapidly blinking) until the main power supply (battery) is cut off. This makes it possible to reliably notify the user of the abnormal situation, and prompt the user for an appropriate response (replacement of the battery, replacement of the unit body 301, reconnection of the cord 500).

In addition, a warning means (e.g., a buzzer) that emits a warning sound is provided in the drive unit 400, and the abnormality detection signal (battery life detection signal) from the power supply voltage detection unit 405 or the current detection circuit 406 is provided. On the basis of the abnormality detection signal (current reduction signal of the electrodes 311 and 312), when a situation that causes the elution of the above-described metal ions occurs, the control unit 407 generates a warning sound as a warning means. Of course, it does not matter even if it is a structure which informs a user of the abnormal situation.

As described above, since the drive unit 400 includes the state display unit 402, the user can easily suppress the operation state of the ion elution unit 300 by the display of the state display unit 402.

The above state display unit 402 may be configured as a display unit that is separated from the drive unit 400. In this case, for example, the drive unit 400 is installed on the side of the washing machine 1, and the display unit is installed on the front side of the washing machine 1, so that only the display unit can be located at a good place of visibility. Therefore, the user can immediately grasp the operating state of the ion elution unit 300.

In addition, the display unit may be disposed in the ion elution unit 300. The display unit is installed on the object to which the operation state called the ion elution unit 300 should be monitored, so that the user can directly grasp the operation state of the ion elution unit 300.

By the way, as mentioned above, the state display part 402 has the display lamp corresponding to each operation state called the battery life display lamp 402a and the silver ion elution lamp 402b. However, the state display unit 402 is a single display unit (display lamp), and may be configured to combine a plurality of state displays by changing the display method according to each operation state.

That is, the state display unit 402 may be configured to change the display method by turning on, flashing, or rapidly flashing one display lamp in accordance with each operation state. For example, the silver ion elution lamp 402b may be configured to turn on in the power ON state, to blink during silver ion elution, and to rapidly blink in a silver ion abnormal state. In this case, since a plurality of operation states can be displayed with a single component, the number of components (for example, the number of LEDs available for the display lamp) can be suppressed, and the cost and power consumption of the drive unit 400 can be suppressed. Can be. Moreover, the user does not need to confirm many display parts, and it is easy to confirm an operation state. In addition, in the case of a single display part, since the display space is not taken by the drive unit 400, the drive unit 400 can be comprised compactly.

In addition, when the state display is too combined with one display lamp, it may be difficult for the user to recognize the operation state, and the number of display lamps is, for example, the number of operation states to be displayed and the visibility of the user. It may be set in consideration. Advantageously, the configuration of Fig. 27B in which two display lamps are provided maintains a balance between the number of operating states to be displayed and the visibility of the user.

In addition, the silver ion elution lamp 402b of the state display part 402 may be set to turn off after a predetermined time (for example, 2 seconds) after the lighting or flashing. Thereby, when the voltage generation part 403 mentioned later is comprised with the dry cell (battery) 403a, the unnecessary power consumption of the dry cell 403a can be suppressed and the dry cell 403a can be used for a long time.

For example, in order to elute a desired amount of silver ions from the electrodes 311 and 312, a current of about 20 mA needs to flow through the electrodes 311 and 312. On the other hand, in order to light an LED, even one LED requires a considerable electric current of about 3 mA. Therefore, when LED is lighted for a long time, there exists a possibility that a battery may run out in an instant. As a result, the battery 403a is quickly consumed by using the battery 403a, which should originally be used for elution of silver ions in the ion eluting unit 300, for other purposes (indication of LEDs). It causes the dissolution of ions.

However, by turning off the silver ion elution lamp 402b of the status display part 402 after a predetermined time, energy having the same limitation as that of the battery 403a can be effectively used only for the elution of the metal ions, thereby reducing the running cost. You can connect by cutting.

In particular, if the circuit is checked to turn on / off when the circuit check confirms that the metal ions can be eluted normally immediately after the power is turned on, whether or not the user can normally use the power when the power is turned on. At the same time, unnecessary power consumption can be suppressed by the subsequent light off. If an abnormality is found at this time, the user can be surely aware of the abnormality if a configuration is provided to promptly notify the user of the abnormality by rapid flashing or the like.

(4-3.Voltage Generation Unit)

The voltage generator 403 generates a voltage to be applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion elution unit 300. More specifically, the voltage generator 403 includes a battery 403a, a plug (power connector) and a connection cord 403b inserted into a household outlet (commercial power source), an AC adapter for converting AC into direct current, and the like. I can think of it. The application of the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 to the electrodes 311 and 312 is controlled by the controller 407.

By applying the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion eluting unit 300 via the transformer circuit 404 and the cord 500 which will be described later, the ion eluting unit 300 Metal ions can be eluted from the electrodes 311 and 312.

In addition, by configuring the voltage generator 403 with the dry battery 403a and driving the battery, the drive unit 400 can be provided without selecting a place of use. For example, the drive unit 400 can be used even in a place where commercial power is not available, or in a place where the number of outlets is short even though commercial power is available. That is, the user can drive the ion elution unit 300 using the driving unit 400 at a desired place without worrying about the presence or absence of a commercial power source.

The voltage generator 403 may include a battery 403a, a plug and a connection cord 403b, and an AC adapter. Thereby, the ion elution unit 300 can be driven by both battery drive and commercial power drive. That is, for example, the ion elution unit 300 can be driven by the battery 403a in an environment where commercial power is not available, while the above plug and connection cord 403b or A commercial power supply can be used by the AC adapter. Therefore, the user can select an optimal power source according to the power environment, and drive the ion eluting unit 300.

In addition, since the ion eluting unit 300 can be driven not only by driving the battery but also by a commercial power source, the running cost can be suppressed, and the driving unit 400 does not become inoperable due to the battery falling. .

The voltage generating unit 403 may be configured as a rechargeable battery, and the rechargeable battery may be automatically charged by the plug, the connection cord 403b, and the AC adapter. In this case, there is no need to prepare a charger separately, it is possible to further improve the convenience of the user.

In addition, although the said plug as the voltage generator 403 may be connected through the drive unit 400 and the connection cord 403b, it may be provided integrally with the main body of the drive unit 400. In this case, since the whole drive unit 400 can be made compact as much as the connection cord 403b is unnecessary, the installation space as the whole drive unit 400 can be made small.

(4-4.Transformer Circuit)

The transformer circuit 404 is a circuit which transforms (steps up or steps down) the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 and supplies it to the ion eluting unit 300. Since the drive unit 400 includes such a transformer circuit 404, even when the voltage generating unit 403 is formed of a general battery 403a that outputs a voltage of 1.5V, the ion eluting unit 300 is made of metal. Sufficient voltage (for example, about 20V) can be obtained to elute ions.

That is, for example, although the voltage generation part 403 can also be comprised with the battery 403a of the output 9V or 12V, these are expensive compared with the battery of the output 1.5V generally used, and a running cost It is high and is hard to use continuously. However, by providing the transformer circuit 404 in the drive unit 400 as described above, such a failure can be avoided and a higher voltage can be output as necessary.

In the case where a commercial power source is used as the voltage generating unit 403, the voltage reducing circuit 404 steps AC 100 V to, for example, about 20 V, thereby obtaining a voltage suitable for eluting metal ions to the ion eluting unit 300. have.

The transformer circuit 404 may be configured to change the applied voltage in accordance with the load (resistance of the electrodes 311 and 312). Since the electrodes 311 and 312 are constant current driving, when a high voltage is always output, the remaining voltages other than the voltage required to elute the metal ions among the voltages applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 are used in a column of the constant current circuit or the like. It consumes energy and consumes unnecessary power. However, if the applied voltage is changed in accordance with the load as described above, such a power loss can be suppressed and the battery energy can be efficiently used.

(4-5.Power voltage detector)

The power supply voltage detector 405 detects battery life or power supply abnormality by monitoring the output voltage of the voltage generator 403. More specifically, when the output voltage of the voltage generator 403 is lower than the predetermined voltage, the power supply voltage detection unit 405 determines that the battery life or power supply is abnormal, and outputs a signal to the control unit 407. In this case, the control unit 407 flashes the battery life lamp 402a of the status display unit 402 to report to the user that an abnormality has occurred.

As a result, when the voltage generation unit 403 is constituted by the battery 403a, the battery life comes and the user can be urged to be replaced. Therefore, it is possible to prevent damage such as liquid leakage due to the continuous use of the battery 403a.

In addition, whether the voltage generation source of the voltage generator 403 is a battery 403a or a commercial power source, or when the output voltage from the voltage generator 403 is lowered for some reason, elution amount of metal ions is lowered, for example, The ion eluting unit 300 does not operate properly. However, since the output voltage of the voltage generator 403 is always monitored in the power supply voltage detection unit 405, such a failure can be prevented in advance, and the ion elution unit 300 can be properly operated.

(4-6.Current detection circuit)

The current detection circuit 406 detects a current flowing through the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion elution unit 300, and outputs a signal to the controller 407 when the current is smaller than the threshold value. When the current becomes smaller than the threshold value, it is possible to determine that the electrodes 311 and 312 are consumed by the elution of metal ions, and the life is near. Accordingly, the control unit 407 flashes the silver ion display lamp 402b and reports the life of the electrodes 311 and 312 to the user, thereby allowing the user to exchange the ion elution unit 300 (unit body 301). Is urged.

Therefore, the amount of metal ions eluted from the electrodes 311 and 312 is reduced by the consumption of the electrodes 311 and 312, and the desired effect (for example, antibacterial effect) by the metal ions cannot be obtained or the effect thereof. Can be avoided.

When the current detected by the current detection circuit 406 is larger than the threshold value, it can be determined that the circuit or the electrodes 311 and 312 have an abnormal state such as shorting. Therefore, in this case, the current detection circuit 406 may output a signal to the control unit 407 so as to report the abnormal state to the user under the control of the control unit 407.

(4-7.Control part)

(4-7-1.First control)

As described above, the control unit 407 controls the operation of each unit of the drive unit 400. However, in the present embodiment, the control unit 407 further controls the inside of the unit main body 301 by the magnetic detection unit 318 of the ion eluting unit 300. The application of the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion eluting unit 300 is controlled depending on the presence or absence of the water flow.

More specifically, the control unit 407 detects the voltage generated by the voltage generation unit 403 when the magnetic detection unit 318 of the ion elution unit 300 detects the water flow in the unit main body 301. Is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312. When the magnetic detection unit 318 does not detect the water flow, the application of the voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312 is stopped.

When there is no water flow in the unit main body 301, the user or the apparatus does not need water to which metal ions are added, and is not in a state in which water flows, or because no water exists in the unit main body 301. It is not necessary to elute metal ions (silver ions) from the electrodes 311 and 312 by applying a voltage. Therefore, nevertheless, when a voltage is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312, useless power is consumed in the drive unit 400.

However, when the control unit 407 performs the above control, when water starts to flow inside the unit main body 301, that is, water to which metal ions are added, water is present in the unit main body 301. Only when flowing, voltage can be applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 to elute metal ions from the electrodes 311 and 312. Only when it is really necessary to elute the metal ions so as to elute the metal ions by applying a voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312, it is possible to avoid wasteful power consumption in the drive unit 400.

In addition, when voltage is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 in a state where there is no flow of water in the unit main body 301, the periphery of the electrodes 311 and 312 becomes high concentration with the eluted metal ions, and the next metal ion is eluted. This may be inhibited. In addition, there is a fear that unnecessary metals added with excessive amounts of metal ions are generated, and expensive metals of the electrodes 311 and 312 are not needed, or water added with undesirably high concentrations of metal ions may be generated and adversely affect them. have.

However, according to the above control, since no voltage is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 in the absence of the water flow, there is no such concern. In addition, in an apparatus for automatically supplying water such as the washing machine 1, it is also possible to automatically dissolve metal ions in accordance with the water supply of the device, thereby reducing the effort of the user to control the dissolution of metal in accordance with the water supply of the device. .

(4-7-2.Second Control)

When the magnetic detection unit 318 detects the flow rate of the water flowing in the unit main body 301, the control unit 407 applies the voltage or the electrodes 311 and 312 applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 according to the detected flow rate. You may perform control which changes the electric current which flows.

The flow rate of the water supplied from the tap 201 of a tap water changes with the area | region, a place, etc. which the washing machine 1 is installed. Where the flow rate is high and low, even if a voltage is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 to elute the same amount of metal ions, the amount of water at the same time is different and the metal ion concentration is different depending on the water flow rate. . Therefore, when the amount of laundry and the amount of water supplied to the laundry are made constant, the amount of metal ions attached to the same amount of laundry is different, so the amount of metal ions is small depending on the installation location of the washing machine 1, and thus the effect on the laundry. (For example, antibacterial effect) may not be sufficiently obtained, or the amount of metal ions may be excessively large, and the laundry may be soiled by adhesion of the metal compound to the laundry.

However, by performing the above-described control, the control unit 407 can elute the positive metal ions corresponding to the flow rate of the water flowing in the unit main body 301 from the electrodes 311 and 312. Thereby, the metal ion concentration of metal ion addition water can be made substantially constant irrespective of the installation place of the washing machine 1, and it does not cause an excess or deficiency in the quantity of the metal ion to elute. As a result, irrespective of the installation place of the washing machine 1, the desired treatment with the metal ions can be appropriately performed according to the amount of the laundry, and the dirt of the laundry due to the excessive dissolution of the metal ions can be prevented. .

In addition, by changing the elution amount per unit time of metal ions according to the flow rate of the water in the unit main body 301, the user can receive the metal ion addition water of predetermined metal ion concentration, without affecting the fluctuation of the flow rate. As a result, the user can obtain a stable antibacterial effect if the metal ion is silver ions.

(4-7-3.Third Control)

The control unit 407 may control to stop applying the voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312 after a predetermined time has passed since the voltage generation unit 403 began to apply the voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312.

For example, when the flow rate of water flowing in the unit main body 301 is small, if metal ions are continuously eluted from the electrodes 311 and 312, the metal ion concentration of the metal ion-added water becomes very high and the electrodes 311, 312) may be quickly consumed or the laundry may be soiled by the attachment of metal compounds.

However, according to the control of the control unit 407, for example, the elution of the metal ions is stopped in a situation where the flow rate is at least appropriate, and the elution amount of the metal ions is excessively high, so that the concentration is too high, or the lifetime of the electrodes 311 and 312 is extended. You can avoid getting extremely fast.

In addition, the count after a predetermined time may be reset to zero when the voltage application is stopped for a predetermined time or more. In this case, even if the water supply of the washing tank 30 is a predetermined quantity, the water is divided into a plurality of times, or even if the user pauses in the middle of water supply. There is no worry of defects such as elution and excessively high concentration.

(4-8. Other Configurations)

The antimicrobial processing apparatus 200 of the present invention may use the drive unit 400 'shown in FIG. 29 instead of the drive unit 400 shown in FIG. In addition to the configuration of the drive unit 400, the drive unit 400 ′ includes a concentration setting unit 408, a water supply water setting unit 409, an elution count counting unit 410, and a water supply count counting unit ( At least one of 411, the elution start water supply frequency setting unit 412, the storage unit 413, and the vibration sensor 414 is included.

(4-8-1.Density setting part)

The concentration setting unit 408 is for the user to set the metal ion (silver ion) concentration. In this case, the controller 407 changes the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 in accordance with the concentration set by the concentration setting unit 408 and performs control to apply it to the electrodes 311 and 312. In addition, the control unit 407 changes the current flowing through the electrodes 311 and 312 according to the concentration set by the concentration setting unit 408, or the electrodes 311 and 312 of the voltage generated by the voltage generating unit 403. It is also possible to change the application time to the.

In this configuration, by setting the concentration in the concentration setting section 408, the user can freely change the metal ion concentration of the metal ion additive, for example, to produce a metal ion concentration that meets the user's desired antibacterial ability. Can be. Thereby, the usability and the range of application of the antimicrobial processing apparatus 200 of this invention can be expanded.

(4-8-2.Water supply quantity setting part)

The water supply quantity setting unit 409 is for setting the water supply quantity to the washing machine 1 as the water supply apparatus. In this case, the control unit 407 determines the elution time of the metal ions (silver ions), that is, the voltages generated by the voltage generator 403 according to the water supply amount set by the water supply quantity setting unit 409. Control is performed to change the time of application to 312 (the time for the current to flow through the electrodes 311 and 312).

By the amount of water supplied to the washing machine 1, the amount of metal ion elution for obtaining a predetermined concentration as the metal ion concentration required for the antibacterial treatment of laundry is also determined. Since the amount of elution of metal ions basically follows Faraday's law, if the time for letting a predetermined current flow through the electrodes 311 and 312 by applying voltage is changed in accordance with the water supply amount, the flow rate detecting means (detecting unit 315) and the like. Even if it is not equipped with the cost of, the metal ion addition water of desired concentration can be supplied to the washing machine 1 stably.

The elution time of the metal ions may be changed by changing the total time when the voltage is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312. When the voltages to the electrodes 311 and 312 are alternately turned ON / OFF, The ratio (time) of the ON time and the OFF time may be changed.

(4-8-3.Elution count counting unit)

The dissolution number counting unit 410 counts the dissolution number of the metal ions (silver ions) in the ion dissolution unit 300. Here, as the number of metal ions eluted, (a) When the voltage is alternately applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 from the voltage generating unit 403, the number of times of turning on either may be used, and (b) the electrode The number of times the whole from the start of elution of the metal ions from (311, 312) to the end of it may be one.

In this case, the control unit 407 causes the silver ion display lamp 402b of the status display unit 402 to flash rapidly when the number of dissolution of the metal ions exceeds a predetermined value. As the number of elution of metal ions increases, the electrodes 311 and 312 are gradually consumed, so that the counter 408 counts the number of elution of metal ions, thereby predicting the life of the electrodes 311 and 312 to some extent. Can be.

Therefore, by the flashing of the silver ion display lamp 402b by the control part 407, the lifetime of the electrodes 311 and 312 can be recognized by a user, and the replacement of the unit main body 301 can be promoted. Moreover, such an effect can be easily obtained by the simple structure of providing the dissolution number counting unit 410.

(4-8-4. Water supply count counter)

The water supply number counting unit 411 counts the number of times of water supply from the ion elution unit 300 to the washing machine 1 as the water supply device based on the detection of the presence or absence of water flow in the detection unit 315 of the ion elution unit 300. . For example, when the detection unit 315 first detects water flow in the unit main body 301, the water supply count counting unit 411 counts this as the first water supply count, and the detection unit 315 has no water flow once. When it detects that there is water flow again, this is counted as the 2nd water supply frequency.

When such a water supply number counting unit 411 is provided, the control unit 407 determines that the number of times the water supply counted by the water supply number counting unit 411 corresponds to the time when elution of the metal ions is required (elution of the metal ions is required. After the number of times corresponding to the required washing process) (for example, after the third time of water supply), the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 is transferred to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion elution unit 300. The metal ions are eluted from the electrodes 311 and 312 by applying.

In the washing machine 1, when a washing process is normally operated, a washing process is performed initially, and a rinsing process is performed after that. The water supply to the washing machine 1 is, for each washing process, the main water supply for supplying a predetermined amount of water in each process, and the additional water supply for adding supplemental water in the middle of each process to compensate for the decrease in water level caused by the water soaking in the cloth. For example, even if the metal ion-added water is supplied to the washing machine 1 in the washing step, the metal ions are washed off with water containing a large amount of clothes dirt and detergent components, and the metal ions are sufficiently applied to the clothes. It can't be done and it's a waste.

However, in the washing process in which the water supply frequency is the first (main water supply) and the second (additional water supply), the voltage is not applied to the electrodes 311 and 312, and when the water supply frequency is after the third time, that is, after the next rinsing process. By applying a voltage to the furnace electrodes 311 and 312 and eluting the metal ions from the electrodes 311 and 312, it is possible to avoid the waste of the eluted metal ions and to effectively use the metal ions. In addition, since the dirt of the laundry is almost removed in the washing step, the metal ions can be easily acted on the laundry by the subsequent water supply of the metal ion-added water.

(4-8-5. Water Dispensing Time Setting Part)

The elution start water supply frequency setting unit 412 is for setting the number of water supply times at which the metal ions start elution from the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion elution unit 300.

When the elution start water supply number setting unit 412 is provided, the control unit 407 when the water supply number counted by the water supply number counting unit 411 reaches the water supply number set by the elution start water supply number setting unit 412, The voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion eluting unit 300 to elute metal ions from the electrodes 311 and 312.

For example, when the rinsing step after the washing step is made up of a plurality of rinsing steps (for example, three times of low water rinsing steps), water is supplied to the washing machine 1 for each rinsing step. Here, in order to give the antimicrobial effect, in order to make the metal ions adhere to the clothes, the metal ion-added water may be supplied to the washing machine 1 at least in the final rinsing step, and therefore, in the rinsing step before the final rinsing step, the metal ions must It is not necessary to supply the additional water to the washing machine 1. This is because the metal ions by rinsing before the final rinsing step are washed away by the rinsing in the subsequent step and are not sufficiently utilized effectively, and the metal ions will be wasted.

However, according to the control of the control unit 407, since the metal ion addition water is supplied at the time of the water supply set in the elution start water supply number setting unit 412, even if the rinsing step is made of a plurality of rinsing steps, for example, Only by setting the number of times of water supply corresponding to the final rinsing step, the metal ion-added water can be supplied to the washing machine 1 only during the final rinsing step. Therefore, the metal ions are not eluted at other processes (washing process or rinsing process other than the final rinsing process) where water supply of the metal ion-added water is unnecessary, so that useless metal elution can be prevented and metal ions can be effectively used. .

In addition, when the elution start water supply number setting unit 412 is provided, the control unit 407 causes the water supply number counted by the water supply number counting unit 411 to reach the water supply number set by the elution start water supply number setting unit 412. Subsequently, the voltage generated by the voltage generator 403 may be applied to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion eluting unit 300 to elute metal ions from the electrodes 311 and 312.

As shown in Fig. 5, the dehydration step is performed at the beginning of the rinsing step, but unbalance may occur in the washing tank 30 during this dewatering step. In addition, unbalance means the phenomenon in which the laundry is arranged in the washing tank 30 so that the rotational balance cannot be well balanced at the start of dehydration, and the washing tank 30 and the washing machine 1 vibrate greatly.

Therefore, when the detection means (not shown) of the washing machine 1 detects such an unbalance, the control means of the washing machine 1 supplies water to the washing tank 30 to unload the laundry and control to correct the unbalance. .

Therefore, when water supply for correcting such an unbalance is executed, the water supply number counting unit 411 also counts this as the number of water supply times, so that the water supply number at which the elution start water supply number setting unit 412 starts elution first is determined. Even if it is set, when the unbalance correction is performed on the way, the number of times of water supply set by the elution start water supply number setting unit 412 may be out of phase with the number of times of water supply corresponding to the final rinsing step. In other words, before the final rinsing step, the actual number of times of water supply reaches the number of times of water set by the elution start water supply number setting unit 412, so that water supply of the metal ion-added water may be started.

However, by the control of the control unit 407, the water of the metal ion addition is continuously supplied to the washing machine 1 after the water supply number set in the elution start water supply number setting unit 412. Even when an unpredictable situation occurs on the way, such as an increase in the number of times, the metal ion-added water can always be supplied to the washing machine 1 in the final rinsing step. As a result, the desired antibacterial treatment can be performed in the final rinsing step. That is, the water that does not contain metal ions in the final rinsing process is supplied with water, thereby reducing the amount of adhesion of metal ions supplied before the clothes to the garment, and reliably avoiding the problem that the user cannot obtain the desired antibacterial ability. Can be.

In addition, unbalance may arise in the dehydration process after a rinsing process, ie, after a final rinsing process, and also in this case, the process of correcting an unbalance is performed. Even in such a case, the metal ion-added water is continuously supplied to the washing machine 1 after the water supply number set by the elution start water supply number setting unit 412 by the control of the control unit 407, so that the metal after the final rinsing step The same defect as described above due to water supply of water not containing ions can be reliably avoided.

(4-8-6.Memory)

The storage unit 413 is a storage means for storing in advance the water supply timing in which the supply of the metal ion-added water (silver ion water) to the washing machine 1 is required. In FIG. 29, the storage unit 413 is provided independently of the control unit 407, but may be configured in a memory in the control unit 407. In FIG.

The water supply timing may be stored in the storage unit 413 by default, or a water supply timing setting unit (not shown) may be provided, and the water supply timing set by this may be stored in the storage unit 413. The water supply water quantity setting unit 409 and the elution start water supply frequency setting unit 412 shown in FIG. 29 can also be used as the water supply timing setting unit.

When such a storage unit 413 is provided, the control unit 407 drives the voltage generation unit 403 in accordance with the water supply timing of the metal ion-added water stored in the storage unit 413, so that It is possible to apply a voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312.

For example, suppose that "time until water supply of metal ion addition water" is stored in the storage unit 413 as the water supply timing, the control unit 407 turns on the drive unit 400 by the operation unit 401. After the time elapses after this, the voltage generator 403 is driven to apply a voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312.

In addition, suppose that "predetermined water supply flow rate" is stored in the storage unit 413 as the water supply timing, for example, when the flow rate detected by the detection unit 315 reaches the water supply flow rate, The voltage generator 403 is driven to apply a voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312.

As the water supply timing, for example, "the number of times of water supply up to the rinsing process" is stored in the storage unit 413, and the control unit 407 determines that the current water supply number is stored in the storage unit 413. In this situation, the voltage generator 403 is driven and a voltage is applied to the electrodes 311 and 312.

In this way, since the storage unit 413 stores the water supply timing to the washing machine 1 and can elute metal ions from the electrodes 311 and 312 at the water supply timing, when water supply of the metal ion addition water is really needed. However, water supply of the metal ion-added water can be performed.

For example, in the washing machine 1, a washing step, a rinsing step, a dehydration step, a drying step, and the like are performed as the washing step. However, even if the metal ion-added water is supplied in the washing step, the metal ions do not adhere to the laundry and the detergent It is only washed away, and the metal ions supplied are wasteful.

However, when water supply of the metal ion-added water is performed on the basis of the water supply timing, even when the driving unit 400 is turned on by the operation unit 401, the metal ions are not immediately eluted, for example, when the rinsing step approaches. It is finally possible to start elution of the metal ions and to supply the metal ion-added water to the washing machine 1. Therefore, even if the drive unit 400 is turned on early, for example, when washing is started, it is solved without eluting useless metal ions from the electrodes 311 and 312. As a result, it is possible to effectively use the electrodes 311 and 312 to reduce its useless consumption. In addition, the eluted metal ions can be effectively used, and can effectively act on laundry.

In addition, according to the above configuration, when the control unit 407 supplies the metal ion-added water to the washing machine 1 at a predetermined water supply timing, the metal ions are automatically eluted when the supply of the metal ion-added water is needed, and the washing machine ( Supplied to 1). Thereby, the user does not need to operate the operation part 401 manually at the timing which needs supply of metal ion addition water. Therefore, for example, if the drive unit 400 is only turned ON when washing is started, then the user does not have to be stuck next to the drive unit 400 thereafter, so that other work can be finished in the meantime. User convenience is improved.

Moreover, when water supply of the metal ion addition water is performed by the manual input of the operation part 401, there exists a danger that the water supply timing of metal ion addition water may be missed by forgetting operation of the operation part 401, According to this, since the metal ion-added water is automatically supplied when necessary at a predetermined timing, no such worry is at all.

In addition, the storage unit 413 memorizes the required water supply time and the required water supply flow rate of the metal ion-added water in advance, and the control unit 407 starts to supply the metal ion-added water after the water supply time has elapsed, or After supplying only the said water supply flow volume of metal ion addition water, you may control to stop the voltage application from the voltage generation part 403 to the electrodes 311 and 312 automatically. Thereby, even if a user forgets to turn off the drive of the drive unit 400 by the operation part 401, useless power consumption and useless elution of a metal ion can be avoided.

(4-8-7.vibration sensor)

The vibration sensor 414 is a detection means which detects the timing (for example, a rinsing process) when metal ions need to be eluted based on the vibration of the washing machine 1 which is a water supply device. When the vibration sensor 414 detects the timing, the control unit 407 controls to apply the voltage generated by the voltage generating unit 403 to the electrodes 311 and 312 of the ion eluting unit 300.

For example, in the washing process and the rinsing process, the vibration state of the washing machine 1 varies depending on factors such as the rotational speed of the washing tank 30, the amount of water in the washing tank 30, the rotational speed of the pulsator 33, and the like. More specifically, the pulsator 33 rotates at about 100 rpm (about 100 rpm) in the stirring process of the washing or rinsing process, and the washing tank 30 is about 900 rpm (about 900 rpm) in the intermediate dehydration process therebetween. Rotate). Therefore, a remarkable difference appears in the vibration period (frequency) between these processes. Accordingly, in the vibration sensor 414, for example, a washing process requiring elution of metal ions due to a difference in vibration periods resulting from a difference in rotation speeds of the washing tank 30, the pulsator 33, the motor, and the like (eg, For example, the rinse step can be almost reliably detected.

Thereby, the control part 407 performs said control, and when a washing | cleaning process enters a rinsing process, a voltage can be applied to the electrodes 311 and 312, and metal ions can be eluted. Therefore, even if the drive unit 400 is turned on early, it is solved without eluting useless metal ions from the electrodes 311 and 312. As a result, the use of the electrodes 311 and 312 can be effectively used to reduce the wasteful consumption, and the storage unit 413 is provided to supply the metal ion-added water at a predetermined water supply timing. The effect can be obtained.

In addition, detection of the time at which the metal ion needs to be eluted may be as follows. That is, the range of the vibration amplitude of the washing machine 1 in the washing process (for example, the rinsing process) where the elution of the metal ions is required is stored in advance in the storage unit 413, and the control unit 407 stores the washing machine. You may make it judge whether the vibration amplitude of (1) exists in the said range. For example, the range of the vibration amplitude in the washing process is stored in advance in the storage unit 413, and the control unit 407 determines whether the vibration amplitude of the washing machine 1 is outside the above range. You may also

In addition, the vibration sensor 414 may detect the vibration of the water supply valve 50. As a result, the vibration sensor 414 can detect when the water supply valve 50 is driven, that is, when the water supply is being supplied. Therefore, when the water supply valve 50 is driven, the vibration sensor 414 controls the metal at the time of water supply under the control of the control unit 407 based on such detection. Ions can be eluted and the metal ion-added water can be supplied.

In addition, when the vibration sensor 414 detects the vibration of the washing machine 1 in the dehydration step, the control unit 407 automatically stops applying voltage to the electrodes 311 and 312 from the voltage generating unit 403. The control may be performed. In this case, even if the user forgets to turn off the drive of the drive unit 400 by the operation unit 401, it is possible to avoid useless power consumption and useless elution of metal ions.

(4-9.Effect)

The drive unit 400 having the above-described configuration is freely disposed outside the washing machine 1 as a water supply device. Thereby, since the drive unit 400 can be attached later with the ion eluting unit 300, even if the washing machine 1 is a conventional thing which does not have an ion eluting unit, the washing machine provided with the ion eluting unit ( Equivalent to 1) can be easily realized. As a result, the existing washing machine 1 can be used effectively without the unnecessary waste of the existing washing machine 1. In addition, since the drive unit 400 is installed outside the washing machine 1, the drive unit 400 can be easily repaired or the battery is replaced at the time of failure or battery life.

(5. Others)

As mentioned above, although each embodiment of this invention was described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, A various change can be added and implemented in the range which does not deviate from the main point of invention. In addition, the antimicrobial treatment apparatus of this invention is not limited to the use object with the fully automatic washing machine of the type adopted by said each embodiment. It is possible to apply the present invention to all types of washing machines, such as horizontal drums (tumblers), inclined drums, dryers, or two tanks.

The antibacterial treatment device of the present invention can function as a stand-alone, and the installation is simple, and furthermore, since it does not require a special function for operation, it can be used not only for washing but also for a wide range of uses. For example, it is also easy to arrange | position the antimicrobial treatment apparatus of this invention in the water supply path | route of household appliances (a dishwasher, a water purifier, etc.) using water other than a washing machine. In this case, the specification and model of the device do not matter.

In addition, the water to be used is sterilized by the antimicrobial treatment device of the present invention, and the water to be cleaned is soaked in the water, so that not only clothes but also kitchen utensils such as tableware, cutting board, spatula, dishwashing sponge and loofah, and bath and toilet It is also possible to carry out antibacterial treatment with metal ion-containing water to articles. Rather than pouring the metal-ion-containing water into the object to be cleaned, the method of storing the metal-ion-containing water in a container and the object to be cleaned in it can effectively prevent the antibacterial treatment of various types of objects to be cleaned in small quantities. have.

Sterilization of rainwater collected in a bath or a water bath, prevention of infection during bathing, or sterilization inside a fish tank can also be performed by the antibacterial treatment device of the present invention. In addition, the place of use of the antimicrobial treatment device of the present invention does not stay only in a general home. It can also be used to prevent infection of pathogens by sterilization or antibacterial treatment of various items in medical institutions or public facilities.

The antibacterial treatment device of the present invention can be carried out and used outdoors, and does not require special training for use. Therefore, using the antimicrobial treatment device of the present invention in a place where water facilities are not nearby or even where it is impossible to use (for example, a camp site, a disaster site, a refugee camp, etc.), locally obtained water is sterilized on the spot. can do. As well as sterilization of water, the water can be used for antibacterial treatment, so that the general public can use it widely in leisure and disaster places, and it is possible to maintain a constant hygiene level regardless of a given environment.

In addition, the water sterilized by the antimicrobial treatment device of the present invention does not damage the aquatic ecosystem to the extent of chlorine sterilized water even if it flows to a river or a pond and a swamp.

As described above, when the antibacterial treatment device of the present invention is used outdoors, it is preferable to use the battery as a power source as described above. The type of battery is also not limited to a dry battery, and it is preferable to use the secondary battery, the solar cell, or a combination thereof.

In addition to the configuration described in Embodiments 1 and 2, the present invention can be applied to the antibacterial treatment device 200 of Embodiment 3 as well. Therefore, for example, the structure in which the drive unit 400 is provided with the timer which sets the energization time to the electrodes 311 and 312, and at least one part of the unit main body 301 is the internal electrode 311 and 312 It is also possible to realize a configuration in which a perspective view can be visually added.

The antibacterial treatment device of the present invention can be used for home appliances (table washing machines, water purifiers) using water other than a washing machine or a washing machine. Moreover, the antibacterial treatment apparatus of this invention can be utilized also when performing antibacterial treatment of kitchen articles, baths, cosmetics, etc., sterilization or antibacterial treatment of various articles in a medical institution, a public facility, and the outdoors.

Claims (50)

delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The ion eluting unit includes detecting means for detecting at least one of the presence or absence of water flow in the unit body and its flow rate, The detection means, A rotor rotating by the passage of water, A magnet embedded in the rotor, A magnetic detection unit that detects at least one of the presence or absence of water flow and its flow rate based on the magnetic change of the magnet by the rotation of the rotor, The driving unit includes a control unit for controlling the application of the voltage generated in the voltage generator to the electrode, And the control unit applies the voltage to the electrode when the magnetic detection unit detects the water flow. It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The ion eluting unit includes detecting means for detecting at least one of the presence or absence of water flow in the unit body and its flow rate, The detection means, A rotor rotating by the passage of water, A magnet embedded in the rotor, A magnetic detection unit that detects at least one of the presence or absence of water flow and its flow rate based on the magnetic change of the magnet by the rotation of the rotor, The driving unit includes a control unit for controlling the application of the voltage generated in the voltage generator to the electrode, And the control unit changes the voltage applied to the electrode or the current flowing through the electrode according to the detected flow rate when the magnetic detection unit detects the flow rate. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The drive unit, A concentration setting unit for setting the metal ion concentration, And a control unit for controlling to change the voltage generated in the voltage generation unit and apply it to the electrode of the ion eluting unit in accordance with the concentration set in the concentration setting unit. It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The drive unit, Water supply quantity setting part for setting water supply quantity to water supply equipment, And a control unit for controlling to change the time of application of the voltage generated by the voltage generation unit to the electrode of the ion eluting unit in accordance with the water supply quantity set by the water supply quantity setting unit. It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The drive unit, A status display unit for displaying the operation state; An elution number counting unit for counting the number of elution times of metal ions in the ion eluting unit; And a control unit for controlling to flash the state display unit when the number of elution times of the metal ions exceeds a predetermined value. delete It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The ion eluting unit includes detecting means for detecting at least one of the presence or absence of water flow in the unit body and its flow rate, The drive unit, A water supply number counting unit for counting the number of times of water supply from the ion elution unit to the water supply device based on detection of the presence or absence of water in the detection means; A control unit for controlling to apply the voltage generated by the voltage generating unit to the electrode of the ion eluting unit after the water supply number counted by the water supply number counting unit is a number corresponding to the time when the metal ions need to be eluted. Antimicrobial processing apparatus characterized by including. It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The ion eluting unit includes detecting means for detecting at least one of the presence or absence of water flow in the unit body and its flow rate, The drive unit, A water supply number counting unit for counting the number of times of water supply from the ion elution unit to the water supply device based on the detection of the presence or absence of water in the detection means; An elution start water supply frequency setting unit for setting a water supply frequency for initiating elution of metal ions from the electrode of the ion elution unit; And a control unit for controlling to apply a voltage generated by the voltage generating unit to an electrode of the ion eluting unit when the number of water supply counted by the water supply number counting unit reaches a water supply number set by the elution start water supply number setting unit. Antibacterial processing apparatus characterized by the above-mentioned. The electrode of the ion dissolution unit according to claim 33, wherein the control unit continuously generates a voltage generated by the voltage generator even after the water supply count counted by the water supply count counter reaches the water supply number set by the elution start water supply number setting unit. Antimicrobial treatment apparatus, characterized in that applied to. It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including an ion generating unit for generating metal ions to be added to the water supplied to the water supply object by the water supply device, The ion generating unit is freely installed in the supply path of the water to the water supply device outside of the water supply device, The ion generating unit comprises an ion eluting unit containing an electrode and having a unit body in which the water flows; The antimicrobial treatment apparatus includes a drive unit for driving the ion eluting unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The drive unit, Storage means for storing in advance the water supply timing at which the supply of the metal ion-added water to the water supply device is required; And a control unit for controlling to apply the voltage generated by the voltage generating unit to the electrode of the ion eluting unit in accordance with the water supply timing stored in the storage means. It is an antibacterial processing apparatus including the ion generation part which produces | generates the metal ion added to the water supplied to a water supply object by a water supply device, The ion generating unit is external to the water supply device, and is installed in a supply path of water to the water supply device so as to be removable from the supply path, The ion generating unit is composed of an ion eluting unit having an unit body containing an electrode and flowing the water therein, Further comprising a drive unit for driving the ion elution unit, The driving unit includes a voltage generator for generating a voltage applied to the electrode of the ion eluting unit, The ion eluting unit further includes detection means for detecting at least one of the presence or absence of water flow in the unit body and its flow rate, The detection means, A moving body moving along the flow of water, A magnet embedded in the movable body, It includes a magnetic detection unit for detecting the presence of water flow by detecting the magnetism of the magnet at the position to which the moving body moves, The driving unit further includes a control unit for controlling the application of the voltage generated in the voltage generator to the electrode, And the control unit applies the voltage to the electrode when the magnetic detection unit detects the water flow. 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the ion eluting unit comprises: a first connection portion for connecting the unit body to a first hose through which water supplied to a faucet of water flows or to the faucet; And a second connection portion for connecting the unit body to a second hose through which water supplied to the water supply device flows or to the water supply device. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the unit main body is formed in such a state that the electrode is included therein. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the unit body is formed in a shape in which water flows out in a direction different from the inflow direction of the water. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the detection means is detachably provided with respect to the unit body. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein said drive unit is freely disposed outside of said water supply apparatus. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the water supply device is a washing machine for supplying water to laundry as the water supply object. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the unit main body is arranged such that water flowing therein is inclined with respect to the vertical direction. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the ion eluting unit further includes an outflow direction variable portion that changes the outflow direction of water from the unit body. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the ion eluting unit further includes a first filter which is provided upstream in the flow direction of the electrode in the unit main body and removes impurities in the water. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the ion eluting unit further includes a second filter which is provided downstream from the electrode in the unit main body in the flow direction and removes impurities in the water. The state display unit according to claim 14, wherein the drive unit displays a state display unit for displaying an operation state thereof, and the state display unit until the power is cut off when an abnormality occurs that causes the elution of metal ions from the ion elution unit. An antimicrobial treatment apparatus further comprising a control unit for performing control to continuously display and blink. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 37, wherein at least one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is provided detachably with respect to the unit body. The control unit according to claim 14, wherein the drive unit further comprises a control unit for controlling to stop applying the voltage to the electrode after a predetermined time after the voltage generation unit starts to apply the voltage to the electrode of the ion eluting unit. Antimicrobial processing apparatus characterized by including. The antimicrobial treatment apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the drive unit further includes a transformer circuit for changing a voltage generated at the voltage generator in accordance with the resistance of the electrode of the ion eluting unit.

Images