Patent Description:
A conventionally known electrolytic liquid generation device (as is disclosed in PTL <NUM>) includes an electrolytic electrode unit made up of an anode, a conductive film, and a cathode and is designed to generate ozone (an electrolytic product) through the electrolytic electrode unit and produce ozone water (an electrolytic liquid).

An electrolytic electrode unit described in PTL <NUM> has slots that are each made up of a hole formed in a cathode and a hole formed in a conductive film. The electrolytic electrode unit is designed to introduce water into the slots and electrolyze the introduced water.

The conventional art described above enables the formation of an electrolytic liquid generation device including an electrolytic electrode unit that is supported by a support structure formed in piping. Unfortunately, this configuration can complicate the process for building an electrolytic liquid generation device.

<CIT> discloses an electrolytic cell with plate-shaped electrodes in a housing, an electrode case lid to cover the opening of the housing and a conductive membrane interposed between the electrodes. The membrane has elastic properties that facilitate the assembly of the electrolytic device since the the pressure of the electrode assembly can be changed by adjusting the thrust of the pushing screw N in cooperation with the membrane.

<CIT> discloses an electrolytic assembly in the form of a laminate with an anode and a cathode and an electroconductive film between the electrodes. The electrolytic assembly is hosted in a housing with a recess and a flow path is created so that a liquid flowing direction (X) intersects with a lamination direction (Z) of the laminate. The electrolytic assembly has a slot open to the flow path and at least a part of interfaces between the conductive film and the respective electrodes is exposed to the slot.

An object of the present disclosure, accomplished to solve the problem in the conventional art described above, is to provide an electrolytic liquid generation device that can be built with improved facility.

An electrolytic liquid generation device according to the present invention, accomplished to attain the object described above, is defined in claim <NUM>.

This configuration according to the present invention provides an electrolytic liquid generation device that can be built with improved facility. Further advantageous embodiments are defined in dependent claims.

An electrolytic liquid generation device according to the present invention is defined in claim <NUM>.

This configuration ensures that a direction in which the electrode case lid is attached to the electrode case is substantially aligned with the lamination direction of the laminate. As a result, the electrolytic liquid generation device can be built by shifting components of the electrolytic liquid generation device in the lamination direction. This configuration thus provides an electrolytic liquid generation device that can be built with improved facility.

This configuration enables the formation of the flow path by covering the opening of the electrode case with the electrode case lid while the electrolytic part is contained in the recess. Consequently, the electrolytic liquid generation device having the flow path can be built with improved facility.

The electrodes and the conductive film are stacked such that at least lateral surfaces of the electrodes and the conductive film extending lengthwise are substantially flush with one another.

As a consequence, the laminate can be put in proper alignment in a widthwise direction of the flow path by ensuring that the lateral surfaces of the components extending lengthwise are substantially flush with one another. This configuration allows the laminate to be put in proper alignment in the widthwise direction of the flow path with improved facility.

The electrode case is provided with an introduction guide that extends in the lamination direction of the laminate and guides insertion of the electrolytic part into the recess.

The introduction guide provided in this way prevents components of the laminate from getting misaligned during a process of building the electrolytic liquid generation device. This configuration enables the electrolytic liquid generation device to be built with improved facility.

In the invention, an elastic body is disposed in the housing such that the elastic body is in contact with one side of the electrolytic part in the lamination direction of the laminate.

The elastic body disposed in this way is configured to press the one side of the electrolytic part in the lamination direction and compensate for variation in a size of the electrolytic part in the lamination direction. This configuration allows the laminate to be put in proper alignment in the lamination direction with improved facility.

The elastic body is disposed between the electrolytic part and the electrode case.

This configuration allows disposition of the elastic body inside the electrode case and thus enables the electrolytic liquid generation device to be built with improved facility.

A welded part where the electrode case and the electrode case lid are welded together is formed at a periphery of the opening of the electrode case in the housing.

This configuration allows attachment of the electrode case lid to the electrode case with improved facility and thus enables the electrolytic liquid generation device to be built with improved facility.

The electrodes are made up of an anode and a cathode. The electrolytic part further includes an anode power-feeding shaft electrically connected to the anode and a cathode power-feeding shaft electrically connected to the cathode. The anode power-feeding shaft is configured for applying a voltage to the anode, whereas the cathode power-feeding shaft is configured for applying a voltage to the cathode.

The anode power-feeding shaft and the cathode power-feeding shaft extend along the lamination direction.

This configuration allows sizes and positions of components of the electrolytic part to be uniquely defined and thus prevents the components from getting misaligned while the components are stacked. This configuration in turn allows the electrolytic part to be built and the components to be put in proper alignment with improved facility and enables an electrolytic product to be generated with increased stability.

The anode power-feeding shaft and the cathode power-feeding shaft extend to a side opposite to the flow path.

This configuration ensures that the anode and cathode power-feeding shafts are not disposed in the flow path and thus prevents a liquid flowing in the flow path from building up.

One of the anode and cathode power-feeding shafts is disposed on a section of the electrolytic part adjacent to the inlet, and the other of the anode and cathode power-feeding shafts is disposed on a section of the electrolytic part adjacent to the outlet.

This configuration can increase a distance between the anode and cathode power-feeding shafts as large as possible while preventing the electrolytic liquid generation device from increasing in size. This in turn prevents the anode and the cathode from being short-circuited while preventing the electrolytic liquid generation device from increasing in size.

The electrolytic part is substantially rectangular when viewed along the lamination direction, with a lengthwise direction of the electrolytic part aligned with the liquid flowing direction. The anode power-feeding shaft and the cathode power-feeding shaft are disposed on diagonally opposite sections of the electrolytic part.

This configuration requires no distinction between inlet and outlet sides of the electrode case and thus enables the electrolytic liquid generation device to be built with increased efficiency.

At least one of the anode and the cathode power-feeding shafts is provided separately from the respective electrodes.

This configuration eliminates the need for welding the anode power-feeding shaft and/or the cathode power-feeding shaft. This in turn facilitates the processing of the components of the electrolytic part and contributes to cost reduction.

At least one of the components of the electrolytic part is bent in the lamination direction.

This configuration generates stable pressure on the electrodes when the electrolytic liquid generation device is built. This in turn ensures an electricity conduction area with increased stability and improves the stability of the capacity for generating an electrolytic product. This configuration eliminates the need for fastening the electrolytic part disposed in the electrode case with screws or other fasteners and thus prevents the generation of variation in assembly, resulting in improvement in the stability of the capacity for generating an electrolytic product. This contributes to a reduction in a number of components and hence cost reduction.

The slot is formed such that a depth of the slot is less than at least one of an opening length of the slot in the liquid flowing direction and a height of the flow path in the lamination direction.

This configuration prevents a liquid flowing in the flow path from building up in the slot. This contributes to increased concentration of an electrolytic product dissolved in the liquid.

The flow path is formed such that a height of the flow path along the lamination direction is less than a width of the flow path.

This configuration allows a surface flow rate near the interfaces to rise. As a result, a generated electrolytic product can be dissolved with increased speed, and the concentration of the electrolytic product dissolved in the liquid increases.

A projection is in contact with a surface of the electrolytic part adjacent to the flow path.

This configuration enables the projection to press the electrolytic part and thus can maintain contact between the conductive film and the respective electrodes with increased reliability. This improves evenness of density of an electric current flowing through the electrolytic part and thereby improves efficiency in generation of an electrolytic product.

The projection is formed midway between edges of the flow path in a widthwise direction of the flow path.

This configuration enables the projection to press a middle of the electrolytic part and thus improves evenness of contact between the conductive film and the respective electrodes. This improves evenness of density of the electric current flowing through the electrolytic part and thereby improves efficiency in generation of an electrolytic product.

A plurality of the projections is formed side by side along the liquid flowing direction.

This configuration enables the projections to press the electrolytic part along the liquid flowing direction and thus improves evenness of contact between the conductive film and the respective electrodes. This improves evenness of density of the electric current flowing through the electrolytic part and thereby improves efficiency in generation of an electrolytic product.

The projections are formed such that at least a contact portion of each projection in contact with the electrolytic part overlaps no slot in the lamination direction.

This configuration ensures that no projection is disposed over the slot and thereby prevents the projection from interfering with the flow of a liquid in the slot. This prevents the formation of a buildup of air bubbles near the interfaces for the slot and contributes to increased concentration of an electrolytic product dissolved in the liquid.

A plurality of the slots is formed side by side along the liquid flowing direction. At least a contact portion of the projection in contact with the electrolytic part has a length less than a length between the slots adjacent to each other in the electrolytic part in the liquid flowing direction.

This configuration ensures that no projections are disposed over the slots even if the projections are misaligned to some extent at the time of building the electrolytic liquid generation device.

The projection is formed such that a contour of the projection viewed along the lamination direction is a polygon with rounded edges formed at apexes of the projection.

The rounded edges formed at the apexes of the contour of the projection can smooth the flow of a liquid near the projection and thus prevent the formation of a buildup of air bubbles. This configuration contributes to increased concentration of an electrolytic product dissolved in the liquid.

An exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the drawings. The exemplary embodiment should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

The following description illustrates an ozone water generator as an electrolytic liquid generation device that generates ozone (an electrolytic product) and dissolves the ozone in water (a liquid) to produce ozone water (an electrolytic liquid). The ozone water is effective in disinfecting things and breaking down organic matter and thus is widely used in water treatment, food, and medical science fields. The ozone water has benefits such as nonpersistence and the generation of no by-product.

In the following description, a direction in which a flow path extends is defined as liquid flowing direction (front-rear direction) X; a width direction of the flow path is defined as widthwise direction (flow-path widthwise direction) Y; and a direction in which electrodes and a conductive film are stacked is defined as lamination direction (up-down direction) Z. In the description, up-down direction Z is an up-down direction in which an electrolytic liquid generation device is disposed with an electrode case lid positioned in an upper side of the device.

Ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> according to the present exemplary embodiment includes housing <NUM> that has flow path <NUM> formed inside. The ozone water generator is formed such that the ozone water generator can be connected to a midpoint of piping <NUM> (between upstream pipe <NUM> and downstream pipe <NUM>) for feeding liquid to an instrument such as an electric device or a liquid refining machine (refer to <FIG>).

Ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is designed to feed ozone water (electrolyzed water: an electrolytic liquid) produced in the generator to an instrument such as an electric device or a liquid refining machine if ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is connected to the midpoint of piping <NUM> and flow path <NUM> communicates with an external flow path (watercourse 71a in upstream pipe <NUM> and watercourse 72a in downstream pipe <NUM>).

Ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is not necessarily connected to the midpoint of piping <NUM>. For example, a downstream side of ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> may be directly connected to an instrument such as an electric device or a liquid refining machine. In this case, a flow path formed inside the instrument such as an electric device or a liquid refining machine is equivalent to an external flow path located downstream.

In housing <NUM> inside which flow path <NUM> is formed, electrolytic part <NUM> is disposed so as to face flow path <NUM>. Electrolytic part <NUM> electrolyzes water (a liquid) flowing through flow path <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, electrolytic part <NUM> is disposed in housing <NUM> such that upper surface 80a (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) faces flow path <NUM> (refer to <FIG>).

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, electrolytic part <NUM> has laminate <NUM> including anode (electrode) <NUM> and cathode (electrode) <NUM> (that are adjacent to each other) and conductive film <NUM> interposed between the electrodes.

Meanwhile, flow path <NUM> is formed in housing <NUM> such that liquid flowing direction X intersects with lamination direction Z of laminate <NUM>.

Flow path <NUM> has inlet 11a and outlet 11b. The inlet communicates with watercourse 71a in upstream pipe <NUM> (an external flow path located upstream) to allow a liquid to flow into the inlet and be fed to electrolytic part <NUM>. The outlet communicates with watercourse 72a in downstream pipe <NUM> (an external flow path located downstream) to allow ozone water (an electrolytic liquid) produced at electrolytic part <NUM> to flow out from the outlet.

Laminate <NUM> has slot <NUM> that is open to flow path <NUM> and that is formed such that at least a part of interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and the respective electrodes (anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM>) is exposed to the slot (refer to <FIG>).

In this exemplary embodiment, such slots <NUM> are formed in laminate <NUM> to allow water (a liquid) fed into flow path <NUM> via inlet 11a to be introduced into slots <NUM>.

The electrolytic part mainly electrolyzes water (a liquid) introduced into slots <NUM> to cause an electrochemical reaction by electric power supplied from power source <NUM> such that ozone water (electrolyzed water: an electrolytic liquid) containing dissolved ozone (an electrolytic product) is produced.

As described above, ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> according to the present exemplary embodiment electrolyzes water (a liquid) to cause an electrochemical reaction and thereby produces ozone water (electrolyzed water: an electrolytic liquid) containing dissolved ozone (an electrolytic product).

Ozone water (electrolyzed water: an electrolytic liquid) produced in ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> flows through flow path <NUM> and is discharged from outlet 11b into an outside (watercourse 72a in downstream pipe <NUM>) of ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM>.

Housing <NUM> is formed from a non-conductive resin such as an acrylic resin, for example. The housing includes electrode case <NUM> having recess <NUM> with opening 332a to enable insertion of electrolytic part <NUM> through the opening and to contain electrolytic part <NUM> in recess <NUM>, and electrode case lid <NUM> to cover opening 332a of electrode case <NUM> (refer to <FIG> and <FIG>).

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, electrode case <NUM> includes substantially hollow and boxy main body <NUM> in which electrolytic part <NUM> is disposed. At one side (an upstream side) of main body <NUM> in a lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X), first joint (upstream joint) <NUM> that is substantially cylindrical is formed to connect with upstream pipe <NUM>.

At the other side (a downstream side) of main body <NUM> in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X), second joint (downstream joint) <NUM> that is substantially cylindrical is formed to connect with downstream pipe <NUM>.

First joint (upstream joint) <NUM> has first joint flow path (upstream flow path) <NUM> that is formed to communicate with watercourse 71a of upstream pipe <NUM> while first joint (upstream joint) <NUM> is connected to upstream pipe <NUM> (refer to <FIG>). In this exemplary embodiment, first joint flow path (upstream flow path) <NUM> constitutes a part of flow path <NUM>. An upstream end of first joint flow path (upstream flow path) <NUM> is equivalent to inlet 11a. Tapered portion 40a whose cross section gets wider along with an upstream shift of the cross section is formed at an upstream end of first joint (upstream joint) <NUM>. Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, inlet 11a is formed so as to be wider in cross section than a downstream side of first joint flow path (upstream flow path) <NUM>.

Meanwhile, second joint (downstream joint) <NUM> has second joint flow path (downstream flow path) <NUM> that is formed to communicate with watercourse 72a of downstream pipe <NUM> while second joint (downstream joint) <NUM> is connected to downstream pipe <NUM> (refer to <FIG>). Similarly, in this exemplary embodiment, second joint flow path (downstream flow path) <NUM> constitutes a part of flow path <NUM>. A downstream end of second joint flow path (downstream flow path) <NUM> is equivalent to outlet 11b. Tapered portion 50a whose cross section gets wider along with a downstream shift of the cross section is formed at a downstream end of second joint (downstream joint) <NUM>. Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, outlet 11b is formed so as to be wider in cross section than an upstream side of second joint flow path (downstream flow path) <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, upper ends <NUM>, <NUM>(ends adjacent to electrode case lid <NUM>) of respective first joint (upstream joint) <NUM> and second joint (downstream joint) <NUM> are formed so as to project upward relative to main body <NUM>. Accordingly, upper ends <NUM>, <NUM> project upward relative to main body <NUM> and thus electrode case lid <NUM> is clamped between upper ends <NUM> and <NUM> when electrode case lid <NUM> is attached to electrode case <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, main body <NUM> includes bottom wall <NUM>, peripheral wall <NUM> joined to a periphery of bottom wall <NUM>, and top wall <NUM> joined to an upper end of peripheral wall <NUM>. In top wall <NUM>, through-hole <NUM> that passes through along up-down direction Z is formed.

Inside main body <NUM>, recess <NUM> is defined and formed by inner surface <NUM> for bottom wall <NUM>, inner surface <NUM>, i.e., widthwise-direction inner surface 321a and lengthwise-direction surface 321b for peripheral wall <NUM>, and inner surface <NUM> for top wall <NUM>. Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, recess <NUM> is formed so as to have an opening at its upper end. As a result, opening 332a formed in top wall <NUM> is equivalent to the opening of recess <NUM>.

Electrolytic part <NUM> is inserted into recess <NUM> via opening 332a so that electrolytic part <NUM> is contained in recess <NUM>. Opening 332a is formed so as to be larger than a contour of electrolytic part <NUM> viewed along lamination direction Z. Electrolytic part <NUM> can be inserted into recess <NUM> with the lamination direction of the electrolytic part aligned with up-down direction Z.

In this exemplary embodiment, tiers <NUM> are formed at respective both ends of inner main body <NUM> in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X).

Tier parts <NUM> integrate with bottom wall <NUM> and peripheral wall <NUM>, and are positioned between inner surface <NUM> for bottom wall <NUM> and opening 332a in up-down direction Z. Tier parts <NUM> each include intermediate surface <NUM> that extends horizontally and tier surface <NUM> that extends perpendicularly and connects intermediate surface <NUM> with inner surface <NUM> for bottom wall <NUM>.

With such tier parts <NUM> formed, recess <NUM> has a two-tier recess structure.

Specifically, recess <NUM> includes first recess (space assigned for flow path formation) <NUM> that is formed adjacent to the opening and configured to form a part of flow path <NUM> and second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM> that is formed at a deeper side of (below) first recess (space assigned for flow path formation) <NUM> and configured to contain electrolytic part <NUM>.

Second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM> includes main-body containable recess 342a configured to contain main body 80b of electrolytic part <NUM> and power-feeder containable spaces 342b that are joined to respective both ends of main-body containable recess 342a in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X) at one side of widthwise direction Y and that are configured to contain later-described power feeders 80c of electrolytic part <NUM>.

In other words, tier surface <NUM> of tier part <NUM> includes inner tier surface 352a located at an inner side in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X), outer tier surface 352b located at an outer side in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X), linkage tier surface 352c connecting inner tier surface 352a with outer tier surface 352b. Intermediate surface <NUM> is formed such that an inside edge of the intermediate surface in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X) is bent like a crank as viewed along up-down direction Z.

Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, first recess (space assigned for flow path formation) <NUM> is defined by inner surface <NUM> for top wall <NUM>, an upper portion of widthwise-direction inner surface 321a and lengthwise-direction inner surface 321b for peripheral wall <NUM>, and intermediate surfaces <NUM> of tier parts <NUM>.

Second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM> is defined by inner surface <NUM> for bottom wall <NUM>, tier surface <NUM> of tier parts <NUM>, and a lower portion of widthwise-direction inner surface 321a.

As described above, electrolytic part <NUM> is contained in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>. Thus, electrolytic part <NUM> is contained with the lamination direction of the electrolytic part aligned with up-down direction Z.

In this exemplary embodiment, electrolytic part <NUM> with elastic body <NUM> put beneath are contained in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>. In other words, electrolytic part <NUM> is contained in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>, with elastic body <NUM> interposed between electrolytic part <NUM> and electrode case <NUM> and elastic body <NUM> put into contact with undersurface 80d of electrolytic part <NUM>. Elastic body <NUM> is, for example, formed from a material having elasticity such as rubber, plastic, or a metallic spring.

In this exemplary embodiment, when electrode case lid <NUM> is attached to electrode case <NUM>, electrolytic-part flow path <NUM> is formed above upper surface 80a (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) of electrolytic part <NUM> and above intermediate surfaces <NUM>. Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, flow path <NUM> is formed between electrolytic part <NUM> and electrode case lid <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, the inside edge of intermediate surface <NUM> of each of tier parts <NUM> in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X) is provided with upward projecting guides (introduction guides) <NUM> that are formed at both ends of the inside edge in widthwise direction Y. In other words, four corners of second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM> are provided with projecting guides (introduction guides) <NUM> that guide insertion of electrolytic part <NUM> into second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>.

First main-body flow path <NUM> communicating with first joint flow path (upstream flow path) <NUM> is formed in one side (an upstream side) of peripheral wall <NUM> along the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X). Second main-body flow path <NUM> communicating with second joint flow path (downstream flow path) <NUM> is formed in the other side (a downstream side) of peripheral wall <NUM> along the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X).

Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, flow path <NUM> is formed of first joint flow path (upstream flow path) <NUM>, first main-body flow path <NUM>, electrolytic-part flow path <NUM>, second main-body flow path <NUM>, and second joint flow path (downstream flow path) <NUM> (refer to <FIG>). At the same time, flow path <NUM> is formed such that the cross-sectional area is substantially uniform across flow path <NUM> excluding a portion for formation of inlet 11a and a portion for formation of outlet 11b.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, flow path <NUM> is shaped like a rectangle that is broad in widthwise direction Y. In other words, flow path <NUM> is formed such that flow path height H1 along lamination direction Z is less than flow path width W1. In this exemplary embodiment, flow path <NUM> is formed such that flow path width W1 is about <NUM> and height H1 along lamination direction Z is about <NUM>. Consequently, if water (a liquid) with a flow rate of <NUM> liters/min is fed into flow path <NUM>, for example, water (a liquid) flows through the flow path at a velocity of about <NUM>/s.

In this exemplary embodiment, power-feeder containable space 342b located at one side (an upstream side) in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X) is formed at one side in widthwise direction Y, whereas power-feeder containable space 342b located at the other side (a downstream side) in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X) is formed at the other side in widthwise direction Y. In other words, a pair of power-feeder containable spaces 342b is formed at diagonally opposite locations of main-body containable recess 342a.

Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, recess <NUM> is symmetric with respect to a central point of main body <NUM> when viewed along up-down direction Z.

In this exemplary embodiment, housing <NUM> (electrode case <NUM> and electrode case lid <NUM>) is also symmetric with respect to a central point of housing <NUM> when viewed along up-down direction Z.

Electrode case lid <NUM> includes substantially rectangular, plate-shaped lid body <NUM> and fitting projection <NUM> that projects downward from a bottom center of plate-shaped lid body <NUM> and fits into opening 332a in electrode case <NUM>.

Welding projection <NUM> projecting downward is formed at an entire periphery of fitting projection <NUM> for plate-shaped lid body <NUM>. This welding projection <NUM> is designed to be inserted in groove 333a that is formed at entire periphery <NUM> of opening 332a in top wall <NUM> of electrode case <NUM>, when electrode case lid <NUM> is attached to electrode case <NUM>.

Electrode case lid <NUM> and electrode case <NUM> are welded together by vibration welding, heat welding, or other welding with fitting projection <NUM> fitting in opening 332a and welding projection <NUM> being inserted in groove 333a, so that recess <NUM> in electrode case <NUM> is sealed with electrode case lid <NUM>. At the same time, welded part <NUM> is formed at an interface between welding projection <NUM> and groove 333a.

Electrode case lid <NUM> may be fastened to electrode case <NUM> with screws with a sealing material interposed between electrode case lid <NUM> and electrode case <NUM>, so that recess <NUM> in electrode case <NUM> is sealed with electrode case lid <NUM>.

Extending walls 62b extending along the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X) are formed at both ends of undersurface 62a of fitting projection <NUM> in widthwise direction Y. Both ends of electrolytic-part flow path <NUM> in widthwise direction Y are defined by these extending walls 62b, when electrode case lid <NUM> is attached to electrode case <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, extending walls 62b are disposed inward of projecting guides (introduction guides) <NUM> provided at four corners of second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM> in the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X). Extending walls 62b are formed so as to overlap projecting guides (introduction guides) <NUM> as viewed along the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X).

In this exemplary embodiment, extending walls 62b provided in this way serve to prevent a turbulent flow from occurring near projecting guides (introduction guides) <NUM>.

A plurality of projections <NUM> is formed side by side along the lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction: front-rear direction X) at a middle of undersurface 62a of fitting projection <NUM> in widthwise direction Y.

Projections <NUM> provided on electrode case lid <NUM> press electrolytic part <NUM> downward, when electrolytic part <NUM> with elastic body <NUM> put beneath is contained in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM> and electrode case lid <NUM> is attached to electrode case <NUM>.

Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, electrolytic part <NUM> is pressed downward and hence elastic body <NUM> helps to apply pressure evenly to entire electrolytic part <NUM>, so that improved adhesion is provided between components of electrolytic part <NUM>.

Upper surface (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) 80a of electrolytic part <NUM> is substantially flush with intermediate surfaces <NUM>, when electrode case lid <NUM> is attached to electrode case <NUM>. This configuration prevents formation of a level difference inside flow path <NUM>. This configuration also ensures that a cross-sectional area of a flow path (electrolytic-part flow path <NUM>) formed above electrolytic part <NUM> is substantially equal to cross-sectional areas of other flow paths.

Accordingly, the substantially uniform cross-sectional area of flow path <NUM> prevents the occurrence of turbulence in water (a liquid) flowing through flow path <NUM>.

This configuration hampers the generation of a water built-up zone in flow path <NUM> and prevents generated ozone (an electrolytic product) from growing into bubbles. This contributes to increased concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) in ozone water (an electrolytic liquid) discharged from outlet 11b.

A specific configuration of electrolytic part <NUM> will now be described.

With reference to <FIG>, electrolytic part <NUM> is substantially rectangular when viewed along lamination direction Z, with its lengthwise direction aligned with liquid flowing direction X. Electrolytic part <NUM> includes laminate <NUM> in which anode <NUM>, conductive film <NUM> and, cathode <NUM> are stacked in this order. Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, laminate <NUM> has a laminated structure in which conductive film <NUM> is interposed between mutually adjacent electrodes (anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM>). In this exemplary embodiment, feeder body <NUM> made from titanium is disposed beneath anode <NUM>, for example. Electric power is supplied to anode <NUM> via power feeding body <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, slots <NUM> are formed in laminate <NUM>. Slots <NUM> each have opening 82a that is open to flow path <NUM>. Slots <NUM> are formed such that at least a part of interface <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and cathode <NUM> is exposed to water (a liquid). Slots <NUM> are formed such that at least a part of interface <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and anode <NUM> can also be brought into contact with water (a liquid).

Specifically, cathode holes 85c are formed in cathode <NUM>, whereas conductive-film holes 86c are formed in conductive film <NUM>. When cathode <NUM> and conductive film <NUM> are stacked together, cathode holes 85c communicate with conductive-film holes 86c.

Thus, inside surface 86d of conductive film <NUM> and inside surface 85d of cathode <NUM> constitute lateral surface 82c of slot <NUM>, while top face (surface) 84a of anode <NUM> is equivalent to bottom surface 82b of slot <NUM> (refer to <FIG>). Because of slot <NUM> formed in this way, at least a part of interface <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and cathode <NUM> (an interface between the conductive film and the electrode) is exposed to slot <NUM>, and hence water is freely brought into contact with interface <NUM> that is exposed to slot <NUM>. Similarly, at least a part of interface <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and anode <NUM> (an interface between the conductive film and the electrode) is exposed to slot <NUM>, and hence water is freely brought into contact with interface <NUM> that is exposed to slot <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, slot <NUM> is formed such that both ends of the slot extending long and thin in widthwise direction Y are bent toward upstream. In other words, cathode holes 85c passing through cathode <NUM> along lamination direction Z are formed such that the cathode holes are each shaped like a letter V with a bend disposed at a downstream side.

Similarly, conductive-film holes 86c passing through conductive film <NUM> along lamination direction Z are formed such that the conductive-film holes are each shaped like a letter V with a bend disposed at a downstream side. Cathode holes 85c communicate with conductive-film holes 86c such that V-shaped slots <NUM> are formed.

Slot <NUM> may have any of various shapes other than the shape of the letter V described above. For example, the slot may be shaped like a rectangle extending long and thin along widthwise direction Y.

In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of slots <NUM> is formed side by side along lengthwise direction X, for example. However, at least one slot <NUM> may be formed.

In this exemplary embodiment, interface <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and cathode <NUM> represents a demarcation line between the inside surface of cathode <NUM> and the inside surface of conductive film <NUM>. Interface <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and anode <NUM> represents a line of intersection of the surface of anode <NUM> and the inside surface of conductive film <NUM>.

Conductive film <NUM> and cathode <NUM> may be identical to or dissimilar from each other in size. However, at a minimum, the holes (cathode holes 85c and conductive-film holes 86c) need to communicate with each other, and the conductive film and the cathode need to have a satisfactory area of electrical contact with each other. Thus, in consideration of these requirements, it is preferred that conductive film <NUM> and cathode <NUM> are substantially identical to each other in projected image (substantially identical in size as viewed along lamination direction Z).

Anode <NUM> may be identical to or dissimilar from conductive film <NUM> and cathode <NUM> in size. However, it is preferred that the size of the anode at least reaches an extent such that the anode can be seen through all slots <NUM> along lamination direction Z.

In this exemplary embodiment, anode <NUM>, cathode <NUM>, and conductive film <NUM> are substantially identical to one another in projected image.

Accordingly, if laminate <NUM> is formed, lateral surfaces of anode <NUM>, cathode <NUM>, and conductive film <NUM> are substantially flush with one another.

In other words, if laminate <NUM> is formed, at least lateral surfaces 84b, 85b, 86b extending lengthwise of anode <NUM>, cathode <NUM>, and conductive film <NUM> are substantially flush with one another.

In this exemplary embodiment, both power feeding body <NUM> and elastic body <NUM> are substantially identical to anode <NUM>, cathode <NUM>, and conductive film <NUM> in projected image.

Electrolytic part <NUM> electrolyzes water to generate ozone electrochemically at interface <NUM> between anode <NUM> and conductive film <NUM> by receiving ions from conductive film <NUM> and a current from power source <NUM>.

This electrochemical reaction is as shown below.

Power feeding body <NUM> is made from titanium, for example, and is in contact with a surface of anode <NUM> remote from conductive film <NUM>. Shaft attachment 83a is formed at one end of power feeding body <NUM>. Anode power-feeding shaft 83b is fastened to shaft attachment 83a by welding or another technique.

Anode power-feeding shaft 83b is fastened to shaft attachment 83a in this way, so that power feeder 80c for the anode is formed.

Lead wire 102a for positive pole <NUM> is connected to anode power-feeding shaft 83b, and power feeding body <NUM> is electrically connected with power source <NUM> via lead wire 102a.

In this exemplary embodiment, anode power-feeding shaft 83b is fastened to shaft attachment 83a so as to extend along lamination direction Z. Power feeding body <NUM> is inserted in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>, with anode power-feeding shaft 83b extending to a side opposite to flow path <NUM> (downward). In bottom wall <NUM> of electrode case <NUM>, a pair of power-feeder insertion holes 313a for insertion of shafts of feeder 80c are formed so as to communicate with respective power-feeder containable spaces 342b. Anode power-feeding shaft 83b is inserted into one of power-feeder insertion holes 313a. Lead wire 102a is connected to a portion of anode power-feeding shaft 83b exposed to an outside of electrode case <NUM>.

Anode <NUM> is formed by depositing a conductive diamond film on a conductive substrate that is made from silicon and measures roughly <NUM> in width and <NUM> in length, for example. The conductive diamond film possesses conductivity of boron doped diamond. The conductive diamond film with a thickness of around <NUM> is formed on the conductive substrate by a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique.

In this exemplary embodiment, anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM> are each formed into a plate. However anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM> may be filmy, reticulate, or linear in shape.

Conductive film <NUM> is disposed on anode <NUM> having the formed conductive diamond film. Conductive film <NUM> is an ion-exchange film having proton conductivity and a thickness that ranges from around <NUM> to <NUM>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, a plurality of conductive-film holes 86c passing through conductive film <NUM> along a thickness direction (direction Z) is formed.

In this exemplary embodiment, all conductive-film holes 86c are identical in shape. The plurality of conductive-film holes 86c are arranged so as to form a line along lengthwise direction X. Conductive-film holes 86c may be formed into any other shapes and disposed in any other forms.

Cathode <NUM> is disposed on conductive film <NUM>. Cathode <NUM> is formed of a stainless steel electrode plate with a thickness of around <NUM>, for example. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, a plurality of cathode holes 85c passing through cathode <NUM> along a thickness direction of the plate is formed.

Cathode holes 85c are identical or similar to conductive-film holes 86c in opening shape. Cathode holes 85c are arranged at a pitch and in a direction that are identical to the pitch and the direction for the arrangement of conductive-film holes 86c.

Shaft attachment 85e is formed at one end of cathode <NUM>. Cathode power-feeding shaft 85f is fastened to shaft attachment 85e by welding or another technique. Cathode power-feeding shaft 85f is fastened to shaft attachment 85e in this way, so that power feeder 80c for the cathode is formed.

Lead wire 101a for negative pole <NUM> is connected to cathode power-feeding shaft 85f, and cathode <NUM> is electrically connected with power source <NUM> via lead wire 101a.

In this exemplary embodiment, cathode power-feeding shaft 85f is also fastened to shaft attachment 85e so as to extend along lamination direction Z. Cathode <NUM> is inserted in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>, with cathode power-feeding shaft 85f extending to a side opposite to flow path <NUM> (downward). At the same time, cathode power-feeding shaft 85f is inserted into the other of power-feeder insertion holes 313a. Lead wire 101a is connected to a portion of cathode power-feeding shaft 85f exposed to the outside of electrode case <NUM>.

As described above, in this exemplary embodiment, the pair of power-feeder containable spaces 342b are formed at the diagonally opposite locations of main-body containable recess 342a.

Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f are disposed on diagonally opposite sections 80e of electrolytic part <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, anode power-feeding shaft 83b, one of anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f, is disposed on the section of electrolytic part <NUM> adjacent to inlet 11a. Cathode power-feeding shaft 85f, the other of the anode and cathode power-feeding shafts, is disposed on the section of electrolytic part <NUM> adjacent to outlet 11b.

Electrolytic part <NUM> is disposed in recess <NUM> such that a direction in which the plurality of slots <NUM> are formed side by side is substantially aligned with front-rear direction X.

Power source <NUM> is used to apply a potential difference between anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM> between which conductive film <NUM> is interposed. Anode <NUM> is electrically connected to positive pole <NUM> of power source <NUM> via lead wire 102a, whereas cathode <NUM> is electrically connected to negative pole <NUM> of power source <NUM> via lead wire 101a (refer to <FIG>). Power source <NUM> can be electrically connected to a controller (not shown) through wiring (not shown). Power source <NUM> connected to the controller can switch between power-on and power-off and change output power.

In this exemplary embodiment, slots <NUM> are formed such that depth D1 of slot <NUM> is less than at least one of opening length L1 of slot <NUM> in liquid flowing direction X and height H1 of flow path <NUM> in lamination direction Z (refer to <FIG> and <FIG>).

In other words, slots <NUM> are formed such that height H1 of flow path <NUM> in lamination direction Z > depth D1 of slot <NUM>, or opening length L1 of slot <NUM> in liquid flowing direction X > depth D1 of slot <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, height H1 of flow path <NUM> in lamination direction Z is set at about <NUM> as described above.

Depth D1 of slot <NUM> is the sum of a thickness of conductive film <NUM> and a thickness of cathode <NUM> and hence ranges from about <NUM> to about <NUM> in this exemplary embodiment.

Opening length L1 of slot <NUM> in liquid flowing direction X is about <NUM>.

Accordingly, in this exemplary embodiment, slots <NUM> are formed such that height H1 of flow path <NUM> in lamination direction Z > depth D1 of slot <NUM>, and opening length L1 of slot <NUM> in liquid flowing direction X > depth D1 of slot <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, projections <NUM> are configured to come into contact with nothing but upper surface (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) 80a of electrolytic part <NUM>. In other words, at least contact portion 64a of each projection <NUM> in contact with electrolytic part <NUM> overlaps no slot <NUM> in lamination direction Z.

Specifically, with reference to <FIG>, at least contact portion 64a of projection <NUM> in contact with electrolytic part <NUM> has liquid-flowing-direction length L2 less than liquid-flowing-direction length L3 between mutually adjacent slots <NUM> in electrolytic part <NUM> such that projections <NUM> come into contact only with upper surface (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) 80a of electrolytic part <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, liquid-flowing-direction length L2 of contact portion 64a of projection <NUM> in contact with electrolytic part <NUM> is about <NUM>.

Liquid-flowing-direction length L3 between mutually adjacent slots <NUM> in electrolytic part <NUM> is about <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, projections <NUM> are formed such that liquid-flowing-direction lengths of projection <NUM> at all sections from the tip (a lower end) to the base (an upper end) is less than liquid-flowing-direction length L3 between adjacent slots <NUM>.

In this exemplary embodiment, upper surface (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) 80a of electrolytic part <NUM> exists so as to surround all peripheries of contact portions 64a of projections <NUM> in contact with electrolytic part <NUM>. This configuration ensures that all surfaces of contact portions 64a of projections <NUM> in contact with electrolytic part <NUM> are brought into contact with upper surface (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) 80a of electrolytic part <NUM> even if projection <NUM> is misaligned in any direction on an xy-plane.

In this exemplary embodiment, projections <NUM> are formed such that contour 64b viewed along lamination direction Z is a quadrilateral (a polygon) with rounded edges 64d formed at apexes 64c.

Ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> having this configuration is built by a method described below, for example.

First, elastic body <NUM> is inserted into recess <NUM> via opening 332a of electrode case <NUM>, so that elastic body <NUM> is disposed in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>.

Then, power feeding body <NUM> is inserted into recess <NUM> via opening 332a of electrode case <NUM> with a tip of anode power-feeding shaft 83b facing downward. Concurrently, anode power-feeding shaft 83b is inserted into one of power-feeder insertion holes 313a, so that a main part of power feeding body <NUM> is stacked on elastic body <NUM>.

Then, anode <NUM> is inserted into recess <NUM> via opening 332a of electrode case <NUM>, so that anode <NUM> is stacked on power feeding body <NUM>.

Then, conductive film <NUM> is inserted into recess <NUM> via opening 332a of electrode case <NUM>, so that conductive film <NUM> is stacked on anode <NUM>.

Then, cathode <NUM> is inserted into recess <NUM> via opening 332a of electrode case <NUM> with a tip of cathode power-feeding shaft 85f facing downward. Concurrently, cathode power-feeding shaft 85f is inserted into the other of power-feeder insertion holes 313a, so that a main part of cathode <NUM> is stacked on conductive film <NUM>.

At the same time, elastic body <NUM> and the components of electrolytic part <NUM> are guided by projecting guides (introduction guides) <NUM> and inserted in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM>.

However, elastic body <NUM> is under virtually no strain (practically no elastic deformation) after elastic body <NUM> and the components of electrolytic part <NUM> are merely and simply stacked in recess <NUM>.

As a result, at least cathode <NUM> of electrolytic part <NUM> juts above intermediate surfaces <NUM> (refer to <FIG>). Nevertheless, projecting guides (introduction guides) <NUM> prevent cathode <NUM> jutting above intermediate surfaces <NUM> from moving along lengthwise direction X. In this exemplary embodiment, widthwise-direction inner surface 321a puts elastic body <NUM> and the components of electrolytic part <NUM> in proper alignment in widthwise direction Y.

Subsequently, electrode case lid <NUM> is shifted to electrode case <NUM> in lamination direction Z, with fitting projection <NUM> fitting in opening 332a, so that welding projection <NUM> is inserted in groove 333a.

Electrode case lid <NUM> and electrode case <NUM> are welded together by vibration welding, heat welding, or other welding, with fitting projection <NUM> fitting in opening 332a and welding projection <NUM> being inserted in groove 333a.

Accordingly, recess <NUM> in electrode case <NUM> is sealed with electrode case lid <NUM>.

At the same time, upper surface (one of surfaces in lamination direction Z) 80a of electrolytic part <NUM> is pressed downward by extending walls 62b and projections <NUM>, and hence elastic body <NUM> is elastically deformed and entire electrolytic part <NUM> is inserted in second recess (electrolytic part containable space) <NUM> (refer to <FIG>).

Then, O-rings <NUM> are put on the shafts (anode power-feeding shaft 83b and cathode power-feeding shaft 85f) of power feeder 80c through the tips of the shafts exposed to the outside of electrode case <NUM>, and the O-rings are disposed in O-ring insertion grooves 313b formed in retainer plate containable recesses <NUM>.

The tips of the shafts (anode power-feeding shaft 83b and cathode power-feeding shaft 85f) of power feeder 80c are inserted into shaft insertion holes 316a formed in retainer plates <NUM>, and retainer plates <NUM> are contained in retainer plate containable recesses <NUM>.

Screws <NUM> are inserted through screw insertion holes 316b formed in retainer plates <NUM> and into screw holes 313c formed in retainer plate containable recesses <NUM> such that retainer plates <NUM> are fastened to electrode case <NUM> with the screws.

Accordingly ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is built.

In this way, ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> according to the present exemplary embodiment is designed to be built only by shifting components to electrode case <NUM> in lamination direction Z.

In the exemplary embodiment described above, anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f are welded to respective shaft attachments 83a, 85e, for example. However, these components may be configured as shown in <FIG>.

In <FIG>, anode power-feeding shaft 83b is provided separately from power feeding body <NUM> (anode <NUM>), and cathode power-feeding shaft 85f is provided separately from cathode <NUM>.

When ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is built, the shafts come into contact with power feeding body <NUM> and cathode <NUM>.

In <FIG>, both anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f are provided separately from the respective components, for example. However, only one of anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f may be provided separately from the corresponding component.

With reference to <FIG>, at least one of the components of electrolytic part <NUM> may be bent in lamination direction Z.

In <FIG>, in an embodiment not part of the present invention power feeding body <NUM> and cathode <NUM>, i.e. components of electrolytic part <NUM> disposed at both ends in lamination direction Z, are bent in lamination direction Z, for example. In <FIG>, cathode <NUM> includes cathode holes formed to communicate with conductive-film holes 86c although illustration is omitted.

When ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> including the components bent in this way is built, the bent components are transformed into substantially flat plates.

This configuration generates pressure on conductive film <NUM> when ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is built.

In other words, power feeding body <NUM> and cathode <NUM> that are bent in lamination direction Z in <FIG> act as elastic body <NUM> illustrated in the above-described exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Accordingly in a non claimed embodiment, on condition that power feeding body <NUM> and cathode <NUM> are bent in lamination direction Z and configured to generate pressure on conductive film <NUM>, even ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> that is built without elastic body <NUM> as shown in <FIG> provides improved adhesion between components of electrolytic part <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a non claimed ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> configured to be built without elastic body <NUM>, for example. However, the ozone water generator may include power feeding body <NUM> and cathode <NUM> that are bent in lamination direction Z, as well as elastic body <NUM> disposed below power feeding body <NUM>.

The components of electrolytic part <NUM> may be bent into any forms, with proviso that the components generate pressure on conductive film <NUM> when ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is built. In <FIG>, the components are bent in a direction (lamination direction Z) perpendicular to lengthwise direction (liquid flowing direction) X such that the components each have a protrusion facing conductive film <NUM>. For example, the components may be each bent so as to have a protrusion facing away from conductive film <NUM>. The components may be corrugated or each have bends at a plurality of locations.

Only one of power feeding body <NUM> and cathode <NUM> may be bent. Any other component of electrolytic part <NUM> may be bent. In other words, any of the components of electrolytic part <NUM> may be bent, with proviso that the bent component generates pressure on conductive film <NUM> when ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is built.

Operation and working of ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> having this configuration will now be described.

First, water (a liquid) is fed from inlet 11a into flow path <NUM> to supply ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> with water (a liquid).

A part of the water fed to flow path <NUM> is flowed into slots <NUM> and brought into contact with interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> for slots <NUM>.

In this state (electrolytic part <NUM> immersed in the supplied water), power source <NUM> is turned on. A voltage is placed between anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM> of electrolytic part <NUM> by power source <NUM> and thus a potential difference is generated between anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM> between which conductive film <NUM> is interposed. Accordingly, the potential difference generated between anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM> energizes anode <NUM>, conductive film <NUM>, and cathode <NUM>. The electrolytic part electrolyzes water in the slots <NUM>, so that ozone (an electrolytic product) is generated near interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and anode <NUM>.

The placed voltage ranges from several volts to several tens of volts. A quantity of generated ozone (an electrolytic product) increases with a rise in the voltage (current value).

Ozone (an electrolytic product) generated near interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and anode <NUM> is dissolved in the water (a liquid) while being carried to the downstream side of flow path <NUM> along the flow of the water (a liquid). Since ozone (an electrolytic product) is dissolved in the water (a liquid) in this way, water containing dissolved ozone (ozone water: an electrolytic liquid) is produced.

Ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> having this configuration can be applied to instruments such as an electric device using an electrolytic liquid produced by the electrolytic liquid generation device and a liquid refining machine equipped with the electrolytic liquid generation device.

Examples of the electric device and the liquid refining machine include water treatment devices like water purifiers, as well as washing machines, dish washers, warm-water wash toilet seats, refrigerators, hot and cold water supply systems, sterilizers, medical equipment, air conditioners, and kitchen appliances.

As described above, ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> according to the present exemplary embodiment includes electrolytic part <NUM> and housing <NUM> in which electrolytic part <NUM> is disposed. Electrolytic part <NUM> has laminate <NUM> including mutually adjacent electrodes <NUM>, <NUM> and conductive film <NUM> interposed between the electrodes. Electrolytic part <NUM> electrolyzes water (a liquid).

In housing <NUM>, flow path <NUM> is formed such that liquid flowing direction X intersects with lamination direction Z of laminate <NUM>.

Electrolytic part <NUM> has slot <NUM> that is open to flow path <NUM> and that is formed such that at least a part of interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> between conductive film <NUM> and respective electrodes <NUM>, <NUM> is exposed to the slot.

Housing <NUM> includes electrode case <NUM> having recess <NUM> with opening 332a to enable insertion of electrolytic part <NUM> through the opening and to contain electrolytic part <NUM> in recess <NUM>, and electrode case lid <NUM> to cover opening 332a of electrode case <NUM>.

Electrolytic part <NUM> is contained in recess <NUM> such that lamination direction Z of laminate <NUM> is substantially aligned with a direction in which opening 332a opens.

This configuration ensures that a direction in which electrode case lid <NUM> is attached to electrode case <NUM> is substantially aligned with lamination direction Z of laminate <NUM>. As a result, ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> can be built only by shifting components of electrolytic part <NUM> and electrode case lid <NUM> to electrode case <NUM> in lamination direction Z. Thus, the present exemplary embodiment provides ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> that can be built with improved facility.

In this exemplary embodiment according to the invention, flow path <NUM> is formed between electrolytic part <NUM> and electrode case lid <NUM>.

This configuration enables the formation of flow path <NUM> by covering opening 332a of electrode case <NUM> with electrode case lid <NUM> while electrolytic part <NUM> is contained in recess <NUM>. Consequently, ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> having flow path <NUM> can be built with improved facility.

In the electrolytic liquid generation device disclosed in above-described PTL <NUM>, the electrolytic electrode unit is formed by simply stacking an anode, a conductive film, and a cathode. As a result, when the anode, the conductive film, and the cathode are stacked, a positional relationship between the components can be changed in a direction (on the xy-plane) intersecting with lamination direction Z.

If, at the time of stacking the anode, the conductive film, and the cathode, the positional relationship between the components is changed in a direction (on the xy-plane) intersecting with lamination direction Z, an area of contact between the anode, the conductive film, and the cathode increases or decreases. This can cause instability in the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) in ozone water (an electrolytic liquid).

If the components get misaligned particularly in flow-path widthwise direction Y, a quantity of interfaces exposed to a slot varies substantially. This can cause increased instability in the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) in ozone water (an electrolytic liquid).

Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, electrodes <NUM>, <NUM>, and conductive film <NUM> are stacked such that at least lateral surfaces 84b, 85b, 86b extending lengthwise are substantially flush with one another.

As a consequence, laminate <NUM> can be put in proper alignment in flow-path widthwise direction Y only by ensuring that lateral surfaces 84b, 85b, 86b of the components extending lengthwise are substantially flush with one another. This configuration allows laminate <NUM> to be put in proper alignment in flow-path widthwise direction Y with improved facility.

Misalignment in flow-path widthwise direction Y exerts a great influence on the capacity for generating ozone (an electrolytic product). This configuration prevents such misalignment and thereby increases stability in the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) in ozone water (an electrolytic liquid).

Electrode case <NUM> is provided with introduction guides <NUM> that extend in lamination direction Z of laminate <NUM> and guide the insertion of electrolytic part <NUM> into second recess <NUM>.

Introduction guides <NUM> provided in this way prevent components of laminate <NUM> from getting misaligned during a process of building ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM>. This configuration enables ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> to be built with improved facility.

As described above, in the electrolytic liquid generation device disclosed in PTL <NUM>, the electrolytic electrode unit is formed by simply stacking an anode, a conductive film, and a cathode. As a result, a gap may be made between the stacked components. The gap made between the components can create uneven energization on a lamination surface of the laminate. If energization on the lamination surface of the laminate gets uneven in this way, efficiency in generation of ozone (an electrolytic product) can decrease and the life of the electrodes and the conductive film can be shorten.

Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, elastic body <NUM> is disposed in housing <NUM> such that the elastic body is in contact with one side of electrolytic part <NUM> in lamination direction Z of laminate <NUM>.

Elastic body <NUM> disposed in this way is configured to press the one side of electrolytic part <NUM> in lamination direction Z and compensate for variation in a size of electrolytic part <NUM> in lamination direction Z. This configuration allows electrolytic part <NUM> to be put in proper alignment in lamination direction Z with improved facility.

Elastic body <NUM> disposed there allows constant pressure to be applied to entire electrolytic part <NUM> and thus contributes to improved adhesion between components. Accordingly, improved adhesion between the components improves efficiency in generation of ozone (an electrolytic product) and prolongs the life of the electrodes and the conductive film.

With elastic body <NUM> that provides improved adhesion between the components, electrolytic part <NUM> including the components with improved adhesion can be built with improved facility while simplification of the configuration is ensured.

In this exemplary embodiment, elastic body <NUM> is disposed between electrolytic part <NUM> and electrode case <NUM>.

This configuration allows the disposition of elastic body <NUM> inside electrode case <NUM> (inside recess <NUM>) at the time of building ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> and thus enables ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> to be built with improved facility.

Welded part <NUM> where electrode case <NUM> and electrode case lid <NUM> are welded together is formed at periphery <NUM> of opening 332a in housing <NUM>.

This configuration allows the attachment of electrode case lid <NUM> to electrode case <NUM> with improved facility and thus enables ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> to be built with improved facility.

In this exemplary embodiment, the electrodes are made up of anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM>.

Electrolytic part <NUM> includes anode power-feeding shaft 83b electrically connected to anode <NUM> and cathode power-feeding shaft 85f electrically connected to cathode <NUM>. The anode power-feeding shaft is configured for applying a voltage to anode <NUM>, whereas the cathode power-feeding shaft is configured for applying a voltage to cathode <NUM>.

Anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f extend along lamination direction Z.

This configuration allows sizes and positions of components of electrolytic part <NUM> to be uniquely defined and thus prevents the components from getting misaligned while the components are stacked. This configuration in turn allows electrolytic part <NUM> to be built and the components to be put in proper alignment with improved facility and enables ozone (an electrolytic product) to be generated with increased stability.

In this exemplary embodiment, anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f extend to a side opposite to flow path <NUM>.

This configuration ensures that anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f are not disposed in flow path <NUM> and thus prevents water (a liquid) flowing in flow path <NUM> from building up.

This configuration can increase a distance between anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f as large as possible while preventing ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> from increasing in size. This in turn prevents anode <NUM> and cathode <NUM> from being short-circuited while preventing ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> from increasing in size.

Electrolytic part <NUM> is substantially rectangular when viewed along lamination direction Z, with its lengthwise direction aligned with liquid flowing direction X. Anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f are disposed at diagonally opposite sections 80e of electrolytic part <NUM>.

This configuration requires no distinction between inlet and outlet sides of electrode case <NUM> and thus enables ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> to be built with increased efficiency.

At the same time, at least one of anode and cathode power-feeding shafts 83b and 85f may be provided separately from respective electrodes <NUM>, <NUM>.

This configuration eliminates the need for welding anode powerfeeding shaft 83b and/or cathode power-feeding shaft 85f. This in turn facilitates the processing of components of electrolytic part <NUM> and contributes to cost reduction.

At least one of the components (power feeding body <NUM> and cathode <NUM>) of electrolytic part <NUM> may be bent in lamination direction Z.

This configuration generates stable pressure on electrodes <NUM>, <NUM> when ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM> is built. This in turn ensures an energization area in electrolytic part <NUM> with increased stability and improves the stability of the capacity for generating ozone (an electrolytic product). This configuration eliminates the need for fastening electrolytic part <NUM> disposed in electrode case <NUM> with screws or other fasteners and thus prevents the generation of variation in assembly, resulting in improvement in the stability of the capacity for generating ozone (an electrolytic product). This contributes to a reduction in a number of components and hence cost reduction.

PTL <NUM> described above discloses an electrolytic liquid generation device that includes a baffle structure to make tap water passing through an electrolytic electrode unit turbulent. The baffle structure provided in this way is configured to electrolyze tap water with increased efficiency.

Unfortunately, in some cases, simply generating turbulent flow does not provide water power sufficient to forcibly remove minute air bubbles of an electrolytic product from an electrode interface, so that the generated electrolytic product grows into large bubbles without being removed from the electrode interface.

An electrolytic product that has grown into large bubbles in this way may drift in a liquid without being dissolved in the liquid even if the bubbles are removed from the electrode interface. This may lead to a reduction in the concentration of the electrolytic product dissolved in the liquid.

Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, slots <NUM> are formed such that depth D1 of slot <NUM> is less than at least one of opening length L1 of slot <NUM> in liquid flowing direction X and height H1 of flow path <NUM> in lamination direction Z.

Accordingly, if height H1 of flow path <NUM> in lamination direction Z > depth D1 of slot <NUM>, or if opening length L1 of slot <NUM> in liquid flowing direction X > depth D1 of slot <NUM>, a rate of flow of water rises in a location (near interface <NUM>) where ozone (an electrolytic product) is generated. This enables the removal of generated ozone (an electrolytic product) in minute air bubbles. This configuration gets rid of a factor that causes ozone (an electrolytic product) to drift in a liquid without being dissolved in the liquid. As a result, the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid) increases.

This configuration also prevents water (a liquid) flowing in flow path <NUM> from building up in slots <NUM>. In this respect as well, the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid) increases.

PTL <NUM> described above discloses an electrolytic liquid generation device in which an anode, a conductive film, and a cathode are laminated, the conductive film and the cathode have water holes, and the water holes in the layers integrate with each other to form one water passage (a flow path). Because of this configuration, an electrolytic liquid generation device can decrease in size and provide cost reduction.

Unfortunately, PTL <NUM> provides no specification for a height of the flow path. As a result, the flow rate of a liquid flowing through the flow path can substantially decrease depending on the structure of the flow path. Consequently, the above-described configuration in PTL <NUM> may cause a reduction in the concentration of an electrolytic product dissolved in a liquid.

Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, flow path <NUM> is formed such that flow path height H1 along lamination direction Z is less than flow path width W1.

If flow path <NUM> is formed in this way such that flow path height H1 along lamination direction Z is less than flow path width W1, a surface flow rate near interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> rises. As a result, generated ozone (an electrolytic product) can be dissolved in water (a liquid) with increased speed, and the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid) increases.

As described above, the electrolytic electrode unit disclosed in PTL <NUM> is formed by simply stacking the anode, the conductive film, and the cathode. This may cause uneven contact between the anode and the conductive film and between the conductive film and the cathode.

Uneven contact between the anode and the conductive film and between the conductive film and the cathode in this way may cause instability in the concentration of a dissolved electrolytic product and decrease efficiency in generation of the electrolytic product.

Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, projections <NUM> are configured to come into contact with surface 80a of electrolytic part <NUM> adjacent to flow path <NUM>.

Projections <NUM> brought into contact with surface 80a of electrolytic part <NUM> adjacent to flow path <NUM> can press this electrolytic part <NUM> and thus improve evenness of contact between conductive film <NUM> and electrodes <NUM>, <NUM>. This improves evenness of density of an electric current flowing through electrolytic part <NUM> and thereby improves efficiency in generation of ozone (an electrolytic product). This increases stability in the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid).

In this exemplary embodiment, projections <NUM> are formed midway between edges of flow path <NUM> in flow-path widthwise direction Y.

This configuration enables projections <NUM> to press a middle of electrolytic part <NUM> and thus improves evenness of contact between conductive film <NUM> and electrodes <NUM>, <NUM>. This improves evenness of density of the electric current flowing through electrolytic part <NUM> and thereby improves efficiency in generation of ozone (an electrolytic product). This increases stability in the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid).

In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of projections <NUM> is formed side by side along liquid flowing direction X.

This configuration enables projections <NUM> to press electrolytic part <NUM> along liquid flowing direction X and thus improves evenness of contact between conductive film <NUM> and electrodes <NUM>, <NUM>. This improves evenness of density of the electric current flowing through electrolytic part <NUM> and thereby improves efficiency in generation of ozone (an electrolytic product). This increases stability in the concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid).

In this exemplary embodiment, projections <NUM> are formed such that at least contact portion 64a of each projection <NUM> in contact with electrolytic part <NUM> overlaps no slot <NUM> in lamination direction Z.

This configuration ensures that no projection <NUM> is disposed over slot <NUM> and thereby prevents projections <NUM> from interfering with the flow of water (a liquid) in slots <NUM>. This prevents the formation of a buildup of air bubbles near interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> for slot <NUM> and contributes to increased concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid).

In this exemplary embodiment, a plurality of slots <NUM> is formed side by side along liquid flowing direction X. At least contact portion 64a of each projection <NUM> in contact with electrolytic part <NUM> has length L2 less than length L3 between slots <NUM> adjacent to each other in electrolytic part <NUM> in the liquid flowing direction.

This configuration ensures that no projections <NUM> are disposed over slots <NUM> even if projections <NUM> are misaligned to some extent at the time of building ozone water generator (electrolytic liquid generation device) <NUM>. This prevents the formation of a buildup of air bubbles near interfaces <NUM>, <NUM> for slot <NUM> with improved reliability and contributes to increased concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid).

In this exemplary embodiment, projections <NUM> are formed such that contour 64b viewed along lamination direction Z is a polygon with rounded edges 64d formed at apexes 64c.

Rounded edges 64d formed at apexes 64c of contour 64b of each projection <NUM> in this way can smooth the flow of a liquid near projection <NUM> and thus prevent the formation of a buildup of air bubbles with improved reliability. This configuration contributes to increased concentration of ozone (an electrolytic product) dissolved in water (a liquid).

The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited to the exemplary embodiment described above, and should include various modifications and alterations.

The exemplary embodiment described above illustrates an ozone water generator that generates ozone and dissolves the ozone in water to produce ozone water, for example. The material generated by an electrolytic liquid generation device may be hypochlorous acid, for example, other than the ozone and may be used for purposes such as disinfection and water treatment. An electrolytic liquid generation device may be configured to produce an electrolyte solution such as oxygen water, hydrogen water, water containing dissolved chlorine, or a hydrogen peroxide solution.

Anode <NUM> may be made from any other material such as conductive silicon, conductive diamond, titanium, platinum, lead oxide, or tantalum oxide, with proviso that the anode is an electrode having conductivity and durability enough to produce electrolyzed water. If anode <NUM> is a diamond electrode, the electrode may be produced by any method other than film deposition techniques. A substrate for the anode may be made of any material other than metals.

Cathode <NUM> may be made from any other material such as platinum, titanium, stainless steel, or conductive silicon, with proviso that the cathode is an electrode having conductivity and durability.

The housing, the electrolytic part, and other detailed specifications (e.g., shape, size, and layout) may be suitably changed.

Claim 1:
An electrolytic liquid generation device comprising:
an electrolytic part (<NUM>) having a laminate (<NUM>) including mutually adjacent electrodes (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a conductive film (<NUM>) interposed between the electrodes (<NUM>, <NUM>), the electrolytic part electrolyzing a liquid; and
a housing (<NUM>) in which the electrolytic part (<NUM>) is disposed,
wherein
in the housing (<NUM>), a flow path (<NUM>) is formed in such a manner that a liquid flowing direction (X) intersects with a lamination direction (Z) of the laminate (<NUM>),
the flow path (<NUM>) has an inlet (11a) and an outlet (11b) in which the inlet (11a) communicates with an external flow path (71a) located upstream to allow a liquid to flow into the inlet (11a) and be fed to the electrolytic part (<NUM>) and the outlet (11b) communicates with an external flow path (72a) located downstream to allow an electrolytic liquid produced at the electrolytic part (<NUM>) to flow out from the outlet (11b),
the electrolytic part (<NUM>) has a slot (<NUM>) that is open to the flow path (<NUM>) and that is formed in such a manner that at least a part of interfaces (<NUM>, <NUM>) between the conductive film (<NUM>) and the respective electrodes (<NUM>, <NUM>) is exposed to the slot (<NUM>),
the housing (<NUM>) includes an electrode case (<NUM>) having a recess (<NUM>) with an opening (332a) to enable insertion of the electrolytic part (<NUM>) through the opening (332a) and to contain the electrolytic part (<NUM>) in the recess (<NUM>), and an electrode case lid (<NUM>) to cover the opening (332a) of the electrode case (<NUM>),
the electrolytic part (<NUM>) is contained in the recess (<NUM>) in such a manner that the lamination direction (Z) of the laminate (<NUM>) is substantially aligned with a direction in which the opening (332a) opens,
the flow path (<NUM>) is formed between the electrolytic part (<NUM>) and the electrode case lid (<NUM>), and
wherein the electrolytic liquid generation device further comprises an elastic body (<NUM>) disposed in the housing (<NUM>) in such a manner that the elastic body (<NUM>) is in contact with one side of the electrolytic part (<NUM>) in the lamination direction (Z) of the laminate (<NUM>),
the elastic body (<NUM>) is configured to press the one side of electrolytic part (<NUM>) in the lamination direction (Z) and to allow constant pressure to be applied to entire electrolytic part (<NUM>).