HK40112905A - Tone or quality control device for musical instrument or the like, control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

Sound quality control devices, control methods and procedures for musical instruments, etc.

Technical Field

This invention relates to a device, method, and program for controlling the sound quality or performance of musical instruments, etc.

Background Technology

As an attempt to improve the sound quality of musical instruments, Patent Document 1 describes a technique for producing a natural and rich sound by layering different timbres on a piano by making the soundboard wooden and the frame metal.

In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses a structure for noise processing in a humbucker pickup for an electric guitar.

In addition, regarding the quality of matter, Patent Document 3 reports an attempt to study the effects of electromagnetic waves on liquids.

In addition, in Patent Document 4, regarding golf clubs, the following is disclosed: by arranging grooves at specific angles relative to the horizontal imaginary line on the upper and lower regions of the clubhead striking face, the grooves on the lower region can easily grip the ball and enhance the effect of increasing spin, while the grooves on the upper region can easily expel moisture and enhance the effect of maintaining spin.

In addition, Patent Document 5 discloses the following: using a fully aromatic polyester with a moisture absorption rate of 0.6% for tennis gut, thereby improving the reduction in rebound force or abrasion resistance caused by moisture absorption, and thus maintaining creep properties, i.e. reducing the loosening of the gut.

In addition, Non-Patent Document 1 discloses the dependence of the sound wave propagation characteristics of wood on the moisture content.

Background Technology Documents

Patent documents

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-142409

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-208659

Patent Document 3: WO2019/132046

Patent Document 4: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-291949

Patent Document 5: Japanese Patent Utility Model No. 64-042069

Non-patent literature

Non-Patent Literature 1: Yasuyoshi Kotama, Dependence of Sound Wave Propagation Characteristics of Wood on Moisture Content, Materials (J. Soc. Mat. Sci., Japan), Vol. 41, No. 461, pp. 144-147, February 1992

Summary of the Invention

[The problem the invention aims to solve]

Although Patent Document 1 describes adjusting the tone of a piano by changing its material, this requires significant changes to the piano's construction, making it difficult to apply to existing pianos.

Although Patent Document 2 describes adjusting the sound quality of an electric guitar by changing the structure used for noise processing, there is a problem: in order to adjust the sound quality, a major modification such as changing the structure of the humbucker pickup is required.

Although Patent Document 3 describes the influence of electromagnetic waves on the state of moisture in food, it does not disclose the control of quality aspects such as the sugar content or acidity of the food.

Although Patent Document 4 describes adjusting the amount of spin by improving the shape of the grooves on the golf club, it does not describe controlling the amount of spin or the flight distance without changing the shape of the grooves or other aspects of the golf club's construction, because the amount of spin depends on the humidity or moisture content when using the golf club.

Although Patent Document 5 describes improving the reduction in rebound force or abrasion resistance caused by moisture absorption by using a fully aromatic polyester with a moisture absorption rate of 0.6% for tennis gut, it does not describe taking countermeasures for the rebound force, abrasion resistance, creep performance, and other qualities of the gut without changing the structure of the gut or tennis racket.

Although the non-patent document 1 describes the sound wave propagation characteristics of wood, it does not explicitly state any viewpoints regarding the sound quality or quality control of wood.

The purpose of this invention is to provide a sound quality control device, method, or program that can freely control the sound quality or quality of a substance having a liquid interior or surface by applying at least one of an electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, or electromagnetic wave generated by an electrode.

[Technical means to solve the problem]

The objectives of various embodiments of the present invention can be achieved through the following configuration. Specifically, one embodiment of the sound quality or quality control device of the present invention is characterized by comprising at least one electrode and a controller that controls at least one of the voltage value, current value, frequency, or phase of the voltage or current applied to the electrode. By adjusting at least one of the voltage value, current value, frequency, or phase of the voltage or current applied to the electrode, which has a DC component and/or AC component, in a state where a substance containing liquid inside or on its surface is disposed opposite the electrode, and controlling at least one of the electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, or electromagnetic wave generated by the electrode, the state of the liquid present inside or around the substance disposed opposite the electrode is controlled, thereby controlling the sound quality or quality of the substance.

[The effects of the invention]

According to an embodiment of the present invention, the quality of a substance can be freely controlled by applying at least one of an electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, or electromagnetic wave generated by an electrode to a substance, such as wood or leather.

Attached Figure Description

Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of the electrode in Embodiment 1.

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of water molecules. Figure 2A shows water molecules in a free-moving state, and Figure 2B shows water molecules in a beaded arrangement.

Figure 3 shows microscopic images of free water. Figure 3A shows the state of free water before an electric field is applied, and Figure 3B shows the state of free water when an electric field is applied.

Figure 4 shows the simulation results of the potential of water particles. Figure 4A is an explanatory diagram of the simulation model, and Figure 4B is the result of the potential simulation.

Figure 5 is a graph showing the interfacial tension between edible oil and water when the frequency and voltage value (0-75V) of the applied voltage are changed.

Figure 6 is a graph showing the interfacial tension between edible oil and water when the frequency and voltage value (0-150V) of the voltage applied to the electrodes are changed.

Figure 7 is a photograph of water droplets falling from oil.

Figure 8 is a photograph of the microparticles surrounding a water droplet in oil.

Figure 9 is a conceptual diagram of the electrode in Variation Example 1 of Embodiment 1.

Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram of different electrodes in Variation 1 of Embodiment 1. Figure 10A is an example using one electrode, and Figure 10B is an example using one electrode and two electrodes opposite to it.

Figure 11 is a waveform diagram of voltages at different frequencies when using variation 2 of embodiment 1.

Figure 12 is a waveform diagram of voltages with different phases when using variation example 2 of embodiment 1.

Figure 13 is a block diagram of the moisture control device in Variation 3 of Embodiment 1.

Figure 14 is a graph illustrating the scanning of voltage, current and frequency values in variation 4 of embodiment 1.

Figure 15 is an illustrative diagram for use on a guitar or guitar case.

Figure 16 shows the results of the sensory test of the acoustic guitar.

Figure 17 shows the results of a sensory test on the tone of an electric guitar when connected to an amplifier.

Figure 18 shows the results of the sensory test on the double bass.

Figure 19 shows the results of the ukulele's functional tests.

Figure 20 is an explanatory diagram of the baseball bat box.

Figure 21 is an explanatory diagram of a billiard racket box.

Figure 22 is an explanatory diagram of the quality control process of strawberries according to the quality control device of Embodiment 3.

Figure 23 is an explanatory diagram of the quality control process of tobacco leaves according to the quality control device of Embodiment 4.

Figure 24A is an explanatory diagram of the control data of sugar concentration and cell concentration in the quality control device of Embodiment 4.

Figure 24B is an explanatory diagram of the control data for growth promotion and inhibition at each exposure time in the quality control device of Embodiment 4.

Figure 24C is an explanatory diagram of the control data for growth promotion and inhibition relative to the culture period in the quality control device of Embodiment 4.

Figure 24D is an explanatory diagram of the control data of the relative consumption rate in the quality control device of Embodiment 4.

Figure 24E is an explanatory diagram of the control data for deviation suppression in the quality control device of Embodiment 4.

Figure 25 is a perspective view of the food thawing device according to Embodiment 7.

Figure 26 is an explanatory diagram of the comparison results of the food thawing apparatus of Embodiment 7.

Figure 27 is a comparative photograph of tuna thawed using the food thawing device of Embodiment 7.

Figure 28 is a perspective view of the handcart in embodiment 8.

Figure 29 is a comparison diagram of the effects of the handcart in Implementation Method 8.

Figure 30 is an explanatory diagram of the preservation of cherry blossoms according to Embodiment 9.

Figure 31 is an explanatory diagram of the perilla cultivation experiment of Embodiment 10.

Figure 32 is an explanatory diagram of the rust prevention experiment of Embodiment 11.

Figure 33 is an example of setting the electrodes of embodiment 12 in an existing refrigerator.

Figure 34 is an example of setting the electrodes of embodiment 12 in an existing container.

Figure 35 is an example of setting the electrode of embodiment 12 in an existing fryer.

Figure 36 shows another embodiment related to the configuration of the electrodes.

Figure 37 shows another embodiment related to the configuration of the electrodes.

Figure 38 shows another embodiment related to the shape of the electrode.

Figure 39 shows another embodiment of the electrode for a deep fryer.

Figure 40 shows another embodiment of the cylindrical electrode.

Figure 41 shows another embodiment of the comb-shaped electrode.

Detailed Implementation

Hereinafter, a sound quality control device, control method, and procedure for musical instruments and the like, according to embodiments of the present invention, will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the embodiments shown below are illustrative examples of sound quality control devices, control methods, and procedures for musical instruments and the like, used to embody the technical concept of the present invention, and are not intended to be limited to these embodiments. They can also be equally applied to other embodiments included in the claims. Furthermore, in each embodiment, the liquid contained within or on the surface of a substance is described using "water" such as free water as an example. However, in the present invention, the liquid contained within or on the surface of a substance is not limited to water; for example, it can be widely applied to all liquids such as aqueous solutions, emulsions, oils, electrolytes, organic solvents, ionic fluids, viscous fluids, non-viscous fluids, compressible fluids, and incompressible fluids. Additionally, in each embodiment, the term "water" is sometimes used, but this is not intended to limit the liquid to water; it can be widely applied to all liquids.

[Implementation Method 1]

Referring to Figures 1 to 19, the control device, control method, program, and storage medium of Embodiment 1 will be described.

Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of the quality control device 1. The quality control device 1 includes a controller 10 and a pair of electrodes 13 and 14. The controller 10 includes a current and voltage control unit 33, a control unit 36, a communication unit 35, and a storage unit 37. At least one of a DC voltage or an AC voltage is supplied to the electrodes 13 and 14 from the current and voltage application unit 11, which is controlled by the current and voltage control unit 33. The current and/or voltage applied to the electrodes 13 and 14 is detected by the detection unit 38 and fed back to the control unit 36. In addition, a material detection unit 32 (e.g., a camera) is provided, which detects the type or size of the material disposed in the space between the electrodes 13 and 14. Furthermore, in the actual circuit configuration of the controller 10, the current and voltage application unit 11 and the detection unit 38 can be integrated with the controller 10. Alternatively, for example, the controller 10 and the current and voltage application unit 11 can be integrated and housed in a single housing.

The detection unit 38 can also be provided on the electrodes 13 and 14 to detect the state of the generated electromagnetic waves. In this case, the detection unit 38 for detecting the state of the electromagnetic waves can be integrally provided with the electrodes 13 and 14. The cable for the detection unit 38 can also be integrated with the cable for the electrodes 13 and 14, which facilitates cable routing. Alternatively, the electrodes 13 and 14 can also serve as the detection mechanism for the generation of the electromagnetic field. In addition, although the detection unit 38 has a current and/or voltage detection mechanism, in this case, the current and/or voltage can also be detected in the current and/or voltage application unit 11. Therefore, the current and/or voltage detection mechanism of the detection unit 38 can be integrated with the current and voltage application unit 11, and furthermore, it can be integrally assembled with the housing of the controller, etc. In addition, since the data detected by the current and/or voltage detection mechanism of the detection unit 38 includes the value obtained along with the generation of electromagnetic waves, the electromagnetic waves generated in the electrodes 13 and 14 can also be detected based on this detection data.

The material detection unit 32 can also be integrated with the controller, but to prevent enlargement due to the addition of cameras, etc., and for ease of camera configuration, the material detection unit 32 and the controller 10 can be configured separately. Figure 1 illustrates an example with a pair of electrodes 13 and 14, but this embodiment is not limited to this. As described below, the number of electrodes is unlimited as long as there is one or more, and various shapes can be used. For example, when there is only one electrode 13 and 14, the material can be arranged facing the electrode. If the material detection unit 32 detects the type, state, size, etc., of the material arranged facing the electrodes 13 and 14, a control command value is calculated in the control unit 36 accordingly. The current and voltage control unit 33 controls the current and voltage application unit 11 according to the control command value, thereby controlling the current and voltage applied to the electrodes 13 and 14, and applying at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field, an electromagnetic field, or an electromagnetic wave to the material disposed opposite to the electrodes (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as "applying an electromagnetic field," "irradiating an electromagnetic wave," or "applying an electric field," but these expressions are not intended to be limited to electromagnetic fields, electromagnetic waves, or electric fields, but include electric fields, magnetic fields, electromagnetic fields, or electromagnetic waves). At this time, the electromagnetic field applied to the material is controlled to the desired state according to the control command calculated by the control unit 36 based on the feedback control from the detection value from the detection unit 38.

The communication unit 35 communicates with the management server 40, database 43, other PCs 31a-31n, and other quality control devices 1a-1n to receive control parameters or control values from the management server 40. The control unit 36, equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and other components, stores a program in the storage unit 37. Based on the control parameters or control values received from the management server 40, it controls the current and/or voltage application unit 11 via the current and voltage control unit 33 built into the controller 10, thereby controlling the current and/or voltage applied to the electrodes 13 and 14. This program can be overwritten from the management server 40 via the communication unit 35. Alternatively, the program can be stored in a removable memory such as flash memory, and the program of the controller 10 can be overwritten using the removable memory. Furthermore, the program can be set or overwritten via the human-machine interface 31 connected to the communication unit 35.

The management server 40 has functions such as updating or maintaining the program of the controller 10, monitoring or surveillance of the usage status of the controller 10, collecting or analyzing the location information or environmental information of the controller 10, collecting or analyzing improvement request information from the controller 10, maintaining the controller 10, collecting control information from the controller 10 and/or information from the database 43, generating and providing learning model information for the controller 10, providing control information based on the learning model information, or providing control parameters of the controller 10.

Regarding the monitoring or surveillance of the usage status of controller 10, since management server 40 can continuously collect control information from controller 10, management server 40 has the function of constantly monitoring or surveillance the usage status of controller 10. Here, the surveillance function includes understanding the user's status by analyzing when, to what extent, and in what manner the user uses the quality control device 1 corresponding to controller 10. For example, if a restaurant uses the quality control device, management server 40 can monitor the restaurant's business operations, customer traffic, cooking activities, and purchasing activities. Furthermore, in the case of an individual user, management server 40 can monitor the user's personal life and safety status based on the usage status of the quality control device. Therefore, if management server 40 determines that the quality control device 1 is malfunctioning, it can also report the malfunction to the corresponding user and to registered contact information, emergency contact information such as police or fire department.

Regarding the collection or analysis of location information or environmental information of the controller 10, the management server 40 can collect location information, climate information, regional information, etc. of the quality control device 1 from the controller 10, and thus understand the location information or environmental conditions of the quality management device 1. Therefore, for example, the management server 40 can send control information corresponding to the usage environment to the controller 10.

Regarding the collection or analysis of improvement request information from controller 10, management server 40 can collect improvement request information input to controller 10 from PC 31, or directly collect improvement request information input from PC 31 communicating with controller 10. The improvement request information includes improvement desires from users of quality control devices 1, evaluations of control results, or expected items. This improvement request information is analyzed in management server 40 and used to set control parameters for each quality control device 1.

Regarding the maintenance of controller 10, management server 40 can collect and monitor information such as the operating status of controller 10, program status, device control parameter status, information stored in storage unit 37, machine status, and environmental status of quality control devices, and perform maintenance on the controller 10's program, control parameters, detection information, control result information, various setting parameters, and the stored content of storage unit. The maintenance content is not particularly limited, including program setting or updating, control parameter or setting parameter setting or updating, and the setting or updating of the learning model described below. Information on various operating statuses, control information, etc., collected from controller 10, and/or information from database 43 are collected and used for deep learning in management server 40 as described below. Furthermore, the learning model information trained through deep learning and/or the control parameters calculated by the learning model are provided to the controller 10 of each quality control device 1.

Furthermore, a substance detection unit 32 is connected to the controller 10 to detect the type and/or state of the substance disposed between the electrodes. The controller 10, by understanding the type and/or state of the substance, controls the built-in current and voltage application unit 11 to achieve an appropriate output voltage and/or output current based on the type, state, and size of the substance. Moreover, the current and voltage application unit 11 has at least one of the following functions: DC-DC conversion, DC-AC conversion, AC-DC conversion, and AC-AC conversion, as described below. For example, the current and voltage application unit 11 can be configured as a VVVF (VARIABLE VOLTAGE VARIABLE FREQUENCY) converter. Additionally, the current and voltage application unit 11 can apply a DC voltage and current superimposed on an AC voltage and current to the electrodes 13 and 14.

Furthermore, by communicating with the controller 10 through the human-machine interface 31, the user can set and operate the controller based on input from the human-machine interface 31. The human-machine interface 31 may include, for example, a display, touch panel, keyboard, and mouse. In addition, when operating the controller 10 using a personal computer such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet, mobile terminal, or laptop (hereinafter, the human-machine interface 31 is sometimes simply referred to as "PC"), the smartphone may also function as both the human-machine interface 31 and the communication unit 35.

PC31 can communicate with controller 10 to set control parameters, update control programs, and monitor the operation and control status of controller 10. Furthermore, if PC31 is connected to controller 10 via a communication network, PC31 can remotely set, operate, and monitor controller 10.

In addition, the quality control device 1 is connected to an external power source (not shown). The external power source can be an AC power source or a DC power source; alternatively, as a DC power source, it can be a battery including a primary battery and a secondary battery. If the external power source 39 is a battery, it helps to ensure power supply when the quality control device 1 is movable, transportable, or portable.

In addition, the controller 10 performs feedback control on at least one of the current value, voltage value, frequency or phase applied to the electrode based on the detection signal from the detector 38 described below.

A substance intended for processing is disposed between electrodes 13 and 14. The substance intended for processing is not particularly limited to at least one of a solid, liquid, and gas; various substances may be used as the object of processing as described below.

The controller 10 is connected to a communication network 45 via a communication unit 35 or via a PC 31. This communication network 45 is connected to a management server 40, a database 43, quality control devices 1a-1n, and PCs 31a-31n. The management server 40 can collect control information from the controller 10, including detection data from the material detection unit 32 and/or the detection unit 38, via the communication unit 35 or the PC 31. In the management server 40, based on data from the database 43, information from each quality control device 1, 1a-1n, and information from each PC 31, 31a-31n, a learning model is calculated, for example through deep learning or other machine learning methods, to determine the control parameters of the controller. The management server 40 sends the calculated parameters obtained through the pre-trained learning model to the controller 10 of each quality control device 1, 1a-1n. The controller 10 uses a learning model in the control unit 36 to calculate parameters suitable for the material to be arranged opposite the electrodes 13 and 14 based on detection data from the material detection unit 32 and/or the detection unit 38. Alternatively, the controller 10 uses suitable parameters sent from the management server 40 to perform calculations in the control unit 36, so as to control the current and/or voltage applied to the electrodes 13 and 14 from the current and voltage application unit 11 via the current and voltage control unit 33. A control program is stored in the storage unit 37. The controller 10 is controlled based on the control program. This control program can be overwritten from the management server 40, so the program can be updated and upgraded as needed. In addition, the control program can also be set, modified, and updated by the PC 31. Furthermore, various control parameters of the controller 10 can also be set and modified by the PC 31. Here, the controller 10 is described as being controlled by a control program, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, quality control can also be performed by applying an electromagnetic field corresponding to the material to the material using a controller 10 without a microcomputer. Furthermore, the control performed using controller 10 is not limited to feedback control; for example, it can also be open-loop control that can obtain a constant output. Additionally, controller 10 can be used for manual input, setting, and switching of setpoints.

[About Electrodes]

Figure 1 illustrates a pair of plate-shaped electrodes 13 and 14. However, the shape of electrodes 13 and 14 is not limited to plate-shaped; they can also be foil-shaped, film-shaped, or layered. Furthermore, they can take various shapes such as rod-shaped, spherical, hemispherical, cylindrical, semi-cylindrical, conical, semi-conical, approximately L-shaped, approximately U-shaped, polygonal, polygonal prism, polygonal pyramid, curved, or bent (see Figures 33 to 41 below). In addition, when electrodes 13 and 14 are foil-shaped or film-shaped, the electrode thickness can be made very thin, thus reducing the electrode installation space and allowing for free shape setting, achieving weight reduction, and facilitating electrode installation. In the case of layered electrodes, for example, thin-film electrodes can be configured to overlap with a predetermined substrate.

The shape of electrodes 13 and 14 is not limited to flat plates; any shape is acceptable. When using foil-shaped electrodes 13 and 14, the electrodes can be shaped into any shape according to the shape of the installation location; therefore, for example, the electrodes can also be made into curved surfaces.

Multiple through holes can also be provided on electrodes 13 and 14. Providing multiple through holes on the electrodes improves the characteristics of electromagnetic waves generated by the electrodes and also ensures ventilation, thereby maintaining visibility through the electrodes. The shape of the holes can be various, such as circular, elliptical, polygonal, slit-like, segmental, or combinations thereof; for example, hexagonal holes can also be provided.

The materials of electrodes 13 and 14 are not particularly limited as long as they are conductive. Examples include conductive metals such as copper, iron, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, gold, silver, and platinum, alloys of these metals, conductive oxides, and conductive glass. Alternatively, insulating materials can be used to cover the surfaces of electrodes 13 and 14. Furthermore, for example, when the electrodes are placed in a deep fryer, the inner surface of the fryer is insulated from the electrodes. Additionally, for example, when the electrodes are placed on the inner surface of a container, it is ideal to insulate the inner surface of the container from the electrodes. One of the electrodes 13 and 14 can be made of different materials. For example, electrode 13 can be made of stainless steel and electrode 14 of titanium; other combinations include stainless steel and aluminum, or stainless steel and copper. The characteristics of the electromagnetic waves generated by the electrodes can be adjusted by changing their materials. In this case, the characteristics of the electromagnetic waves can also be adjusted by swapping the materials of electrodes 13 and 14. As described below, the number of electrodes is not limited to one pair; it can be set to one electrode, three or more electrodes, two or more pairs, etc. In this case, the characteristics of the electromagnetic waves generated by the electrode can be adjusted by appropriately selecting the material of each electrode. For example, when using two pairs of electrodes, the characteristics of the electromagnetic waves generated by these electrodes can be adjusted by making one pair of electrodes stainless steel and the other pair of electrodes copper. Electrodes 13 and 14 generate at least one of electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic wave, sound wave, and ultrasound. However, when only sound wave or ultrasound is generated, the material of electrodes 13 and 14 is not limited to conductive materials; for example, non-conductive materials such as resin can be used.

A dedicated housing may be provided for installing the quality control device 1, but it is not limited to this; for example, it may be installed in an existing housing. Existing housings suitable for installing the quality control device 1 may include refrigerators, freezers, cold storage warehouses, storage boxes, warehouses, refrigerated trucks, refrigerated trucks, refrigerated boxes, transport containers, storage containers, display cases, shelves, drawers, fryers, cultivation containers (for hydroponics, etc.), fuel tanks, personal computers, mobile phones, recliners, furniture, bedding, home appliances, various manufacturing machines, processing machines, medical machines, health machines, beauty machines, cooking machines, grinding machines, vehicles, semiconductor cleaning machines, and machines controlling water vapor generated during cooling in refining, welding, and drying processes.

In the case of a refrigerator, the pair of electrodes 13 and 14 can be arranged, for example, along the top and bottom surfaces inside the refrigerator, along opposite side walls, along the top surface, shelf, or bottom surface, along the top or bottom surface and side surface, or along the inner and inner side surfaces of the door. In the case of a deep fryer, for example, they can be arranged along the two sides inside the oil container. That is, as long as the pair of electrodes 13 and 14 are arranged opposite each other, any arrangement is acceptable. Furthermore, it is not necessary for the pair of electrodes to be arranged in a parallel manner; for example, they can be arranged in a perpendicular position. As long as there is space between the two electrodes for placing the material to be processed, the two electrodes can be arranged in any manner. The number, arrangement, and shape of the electrodes are not particularly specific, and the number is not limited to one pair; there can be one, three, or more than two pairs, for example, please refer to Figures 9, 10, 23-30 below.

The quality control device 1 does not need to be a housing; it can be placed anywhere as long as there is a position where a pair of electrodes 13 and 14 can be configured. As long as the pair of electrodes 13 and 14 can be arranged facing each other, it can be installed anywhere, such as on a shelf or wall. Alternatively, a screen-like component can be used to fix the electrodes 13 and 14. For example, it can be configured as a cutting board. Furthermore, the number of electrodes is not limited to a pair; it can be one, three, or more than two pairs, as shown in Figures 9, 10, 23-30 below.

[Regarding the voltage applied to the electrodes]

The controller 10 applies at least one of a DC component voltage or an AC component voltage to a pair of electrodes 13, 14. The DC component voltage is not particularly limited; the output voltage of the controller 10, the electrode potential, or the voltage between the electrodes can be adjusted, for example, between 0V and 5000V, between 0V and 2000V, between 0V and 500V, between 0V and 200V, between 0V and 100V, between 5V and 20V, and between 10V and 15V. Depending on the application, it can be used at low voltages or high voltages; at low voltages, for example, a voltage of approximately 1.5V to 50V may be used. Furthermore, the polarity can be set to positive or negative. That is, for example, when adjusting between 0V and 200V, considering both positive and negative polarities, it can be adjusted between -200V and +200V. Therefore, considering both positive and negative polarities, the voltage can be adjusted, for example, between -5000V and +5000V, between -2000V and 2000V, between -500V and +500V, or between -200V and +200V. Regarding the power supply voltage, both DC and AC power can be used. When using DC power, batteries can be used, resulting in excellent portability. When using AC power, commercial power supplies can be used, ensuring a reliable power supply. The power supply voltage can be set, for example, to AC 100V to 400V, to DC 5V to 20V, or to DC 10V to 15V. Furthermore, when using a spatial electric field to describe it, the adjustment can be made between -2000V/cm and +2000V/cm, or between -500V/cm and +500V/cm, or between -200V/cm and +200V/cm.

Alternatively, at least the DC component voltage can be applied to a pair of electrodes 13 and 14, for example, the AC component voltage can be set to 0V and only the DC component voltage can be applied.

The direction of the DC component voltage can be set to positive (+) or negative (-). In this embodiment, the direction of the DC component voltage when the potential of electrode 14 is higher than that of electrode 13 (ground potential) is set to positive, and conversely, the direction of the DC voltage when the potential of electrode 14 is lower than that of electrode 13 is set to negative. Whether the DC component voltage is positive or negative, the effect of improving the properties of the material is achieved.

In addition to the DC component voltage, an AC component voltage can also be applied to the pair of electrodes 13 and 14. Alternatively, the DC component voltage can be set to 0V, and only the AC component voltage can be applied. The frequency of the AC component voltage is not particularly limited; for example, it can be adjusted between 0 and 1MHz, between 0Hz and 500kHz, between 0Hz and 200kHz, or between 0Hz and 100kHz. Furthermore, when the AC component is at 0Hz, it essentially becomes a DC voltage. Depending on the application, it can be used in both low-frequency and high-frequency bands. In the low-frequency band, for example, it can be used in the band of approximately 1Hz to 50Hz.

Furthermore, the voltage of the AC component voltage is not particularly limited. The spatial electric field per 1 cm can be adjusted between peaks, for example, between 0 and 2000 Vpp/cm, or between 0 and 500 Vpp/cm, or between 0 and 200 Vpp/cm. When using voltage as the unit, for example, for an electrode, the output voltage of the controller 10, the electrode potential, or the inter-electrode voltage can be adjusted between 0 and 5000 Vpp; for example, between 0 and 2000 Vpp; or between 0 and 500 Vpp; and further, for example, between 50 and 250 Vpp. Furthermore, the voltage applied to the electrode can be supplied between 0 and 5000 Vpp, or adjusted between 0 and 2000 Vpp, or between 0 and 500 Vpp, or even between 50 V and 250 Vpp, depending on the application. It can be used at low voltages or high voltages; at low voltages, for example, a voltage of approximately 1.5 Vpp to 50 Vpp may be used.

Furthermore, there are cases where the improvement in material properties is enhanced when a DC component voltage is applied, but the effect can also be obtained when only an AC component voltage is applied. In this case, the DC component voltage is set to 0V. Hereinafter, regarding the AC voltage component, in principle, when expressing voltage values peak-to-peak, [Vpp] will be used as the unit, and [V] will be used to represent the effective value of the voltage.

As described above, the voltage of the external power source can be either DC or AC. The external power source can be either AC or DC. For example, commercial power can be used as an AC power source. Alternatively, as a DC power source, it can be a battery including primary and secondary batteries, such as a 12V rechargeable battery or a dry cell battery.

To adjust the voltage value of the DC component voltage in the controller 10, there are methods such as controlling the voltage using a DC (Direct Current) to DC converter for a DC power supply, using an AC (Alternating Current) to DC converter to rectify the AC power supply, or using a DC-DC converter to control the voltage after rectification. Furthermore, to adjust the voltage value and frequency of the AC component voltage in the controller 10, there are methods such as controlling the DC power supply using a DC-AC converter (inverter), using an AC-DC converter to rectify the AC power supply and then using a DC-AC converter (inverter) for control, and using an AC-AC converter to control the AC power supply.

Furthermore, if the target voltage value of the DC component voltage is equal to the power supply voltage of the DC power source, the power supply voltage of the DC power source can be directly used as the DC component voltage. Similarly, if the target voltage and target frequency of the AC component voltage are equal to the power supply voltage of the AC power source, the power supply voltage of the AC power source can be directly used as the AC component voltage.

Furthermore, the DC component voltage is added to the AC component voltage; that is, the DC component voltage is added as an offset voltage to the AC component voltage, and the resulting voltage is applied between a pair of electrodes 13 and 14. Additionally, for example, when controlling the AC component voltage in a power conversion using a DC-AC converter, the DC component voltage can also be controlled simultaneously.

The AC component of the voltage applied to the electrodes can be exemplified by a sinusoidal voltage, but the AC voltage component in this embodiment is not limited to a sinusoidal shape; for example, it includes all waveforms such as rectangular waves and PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) waveforms. Furthermore, sine waves and rectangular waves do not refer only to sine waves or rectangular waves in the strict sense, but to waveforms that take into account noise, strain, etc. Additionally, the DC component of the voltage applied to the electrodes does not refer only to a constant voltage; a DC component voltage that varies with time can also be used.

The control voltage mechanism in the controller 10 can be any of an analog circuit, a digital circuit, or a combination of analog and digital circuits. For example, an analog circuit can be used to generate a sinusoidal voltage, or an equivalent sinusoidal wave can be generated using a PWM waveform. Alternatively, a digital circuit can be used to generate a rectangular voltage, but an analog circuit can also be used.

In addition, the controller 10 controls the voltage or current applied to the electrodes 13 and 14 in such a manner that the voltage or current is selected from at least one of the following groups of voltages or currents.

(1) Voltage or current that reduces the interfacial tension of a substance

(2) Voltage or current to prevent corrosion from food and liquids.

(3) Voltage or current that contributes to at least one of the following: preservation of cut flowers, preservation of beverage water, cultivation promotion or environmental optimization in hydroponics, improvement of germination rate, improvement of hatching rate, antifouling or purification of aquariums, water quality optimization, promotion of rock sugar growth, fuel quality improvement, or reduction of fuel consumption.

(4) Voltage or current that contributes to at least one of the following: preservation of blood or blood components, improvement of diabetes, improvement of chronic kidney disease, improvement of artificial dialysis, improvement of blood flow, angiogenesis, improvement of peripheral neuropathy, improvement of arthritis or rheumatism, organ preservation, anti-tumor effects, improvement of ischemia, improvement of lymphedema, improvement of bedsores, prevention or improvement of necrosis, improvement of circulatory system diseases, or countermeasures against infectious diseases.

(5) Voltage or current that improves the efficiency of at least one of the following: charging or discharging of an energy storage device, a generator, or a power supply device.

(6) Voltage or current that promotes emulsification or formation of emulsions, or increases the duration of emulsion state.

(7) Voltage or current to improve the effect of air purifiers or ionizers

(8) Voltage or current that separates atoms or molecules into their respective categories.

(9) Voltage for controlling the temperature or humidity of the space, and

(10) A voltage or current that separates at least one of bacteria, bacteria, viruses, or microorganisms from water.

(11) Voltage or current that promotes chemical polishing, mechanical polishing, chemical mechanical polishing, or magnetic grinding.

[Regarding controller control]

The quality control device 1, driven by the controller 10, generates an electric field between a pair of electrodes 13 and 14. At this time, electrodes 13 and 14 function as antennas, generating an electromagnetic field by radiating electromagnetic waves between them. Alternatively, sound waves and/or ultrasound waves can be generated between the electrodes by applying vibration to them using electrical, magnetic, or mechanical mechanisms. For example, a piezoelectric element can be used to generate sound waves and/or ultrasound waves between the electrodes. Therefore, at least one of an electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic wave, sound wave, and ultrasound wave is generated between the two electrodes 13 and 14. By using sound waves and/or ultrasound waves in addition to electric fields, magnetic fields, electromagnetic fields, or electromagnetic waves, the effect of improving the properties of the material is increased.

The controller 10 performs feedback control on at least one of the current value, voltage value, frequency, and phase applied to the electrode based on the detection signal from the detector 38. The detector 38 includes at least one of the following: a voltage sensor for detecting the voltage applied to the electrode, a current sensor for detecting the current applied to the electrode, a frequency sensor for detecting the frequency of the voltage and/or current applied to the electrode, a phase sensor for detecting the phase of the voltage and/or current applied to the electrode, a magnetic field sensor for detecting the magnetic field between the two electrodes 13 and 14, an electric field sensor for detecting the electric field between the two electrodes 13 and 14, an acoustic wave sensor for detecting the magnitude or frequency of the sound wave between the two electrodes 13 and 14, and an ultrasonic wave sensor for detecting the magnitude or frequency of the ultrasonic wave between the two electrodes 13 and 14.

Alternatively, sensors can be mounted on the electrodes. The electrodes themselves can also be used as sensors. When a sensor is mounted on an electrode, in addition to the power supply line to the electrode, wiring (e.g., two wires) is also required for the sensor. Ideally, the number of wires between the controller 10 and the electrodes should be small; therefore, it is preferable to combine the power supply line and the sensor line into a single wire. In this case, the single wire should be coated with a material that has at least insulation properties. Furthermore, it is also preferable to have durability or heat resistance. Furthermore, if use in a freezer is also considered, it is preferable to also withstand low temperatures. If use in a deep fryer, for example, is considered, durability and heat resistance are required in addition to insulation; therefore, the coating material for the wire can be, for example, fluoropolymer. When a pair of electrodes is provided, the sensor can be mounted on only one electrode. Alternatively, when a sensor is mounted on two electrodes, the physical quantity generated by the other electrode can be detected by the sensor on one electrode. When there are three or more electrodes, a sensor can be mounted on at least one electrode, but this is not a limitation; sensors can also be mounted on multiple electrodes or all electrodes.

The target control value of at least one of the current value, voltage value, frequency, and phase in the controller 10 is set according to the type or state of the substance being targeted. This target control value can be set remotely via a communicator (not shown). Alternatively, the control parameters or control quantities of the controller 10 can also be controlled remotely. Thus, a server 40 located at a remote location can centrally manage the controllers 10 of multiple quality control devices 1, and appropriately control each controller 10. However, the control method of the controller 10 is not limited to remote control from the server 40; for example, the controllers 10 of each quality control device 1 can also be individually controlled by directly setting the target control value or setting the control parameters.

Furthermore, the controller 10 is provided with a storage unit 37, in which a control program is stored. The controller 10 performs control based on this control program. This control program can be overwritten via communication or storage media, thus allowing for timely program updates and version upgrades. Moreover, the controller 10 can communicate with the server 40, and control parameters, control quantities, control programs, or various setpoints sent from the server 40 are stored in the storage unit 37. Alternatively, the control program can be stored on a suitable storage medium.

Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of water molecules. Figure 2A shows water molecules in a free-moving state, and Figure 2B shows water molecules in a beaded arrangement.

Substances that become objects, such as food like meat, fish, and vegetables, beverages, animal and plant cells, and oils, contain water molecules, including free water.

Typically, as shown in Figure 2A, water molecules (H₂O) are arranged irregularly. Therefore, hydrogen atoms (H) either acquire reactive oxygen species (3O), form hydrogen bonds, or the water molecules become larger and less mobile. Then, the oxidation of the water molecules begins.

In contrast, if an electric field is generated between a pair of electrodes 13 and 14, the water molecules will align themselves in a fixed direction. This is because, in the water molecules, the oxygen atom O, which has a stronger force pulling electrons, becomes slightly negative, while the hydrogen atom H, which easily generates electrons, becomes slightly positive, and each will align itself towards the direction of the electric field between the pair of electrodes 13 and 14.

If an AC component voltage is generated by controller 10, the water molecules alternately change direction. At this time, the water molecules change direction at the same frequency as the AC component voltage, becoming in a vibrational state. Then, during the repeated vibration, as shown in Figure 2B, the hydrogen bonds between the water molecules and active oxygen 30 or other components break, and the water molecules gradually and regularly form a finer particle arrangement.

The same effect exists between water particles (fine water droplets) that exist in matter, such as free water. Therefore, through the electric field between a pair of electrodes 13 and 14, the water particles are arranged in a beaded pattern by pulling each other.

When a DC component voltage is applied between a pair of electrodes 13 and 14, a force component exists that causes water molecules to align along the direction of the electric field generated by the DC component voltage. Therefore, even when only the DC component voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes 13 and 14, the water molecules also align regularly. Furthermore, if an AC component voltage is applied to the DC component voltage, the water molecules change direction at the same frequency as the AC component voltage, and a force component exists that causes the water molecules to align in one direction, making it easier for the water molecules to align regularly. Similarly, regarding the state of water particles, through the electric field between the pair of electrodes 13 and 14, water particles, such as free water, form a beaded arrangement by pulling each other.

Furthermore, when the voltage applied between the pair of electrodes 13 and 14 does not include a DC component, water molecules also change direction at the same frequency as the AC component voltage, becoming in a vibrational state. Then, during this repeated vibration, the hydrogen bonds between water molecules and active oxygen 30 or other components break, and the water molecules gradually and regularly form a finer, more granular arrangement. Additionally, when the voltage applied between the pair of electrodes 13 and 14 does not include a DC component, the effect of the AC component voltage on the state of the water particles is similarly achieved through the electric field between the pair of electrodes 13 and 14, causing water particles, such as free water, to pull each other and form a beaded arrangement.

Furthermore, since sound waves or ultrasound waves can vibrate water molecules, applying a DC component voltage and/or an AC component voltage between a pair of electrodes 13 and 14 generates sound waves and/or ultrasound waves of a specified frequency and intensity between the electrodes, thereby promoting the alignment of water molecules. Additionally, even without applying voltage between the electrodes, water molecules can be neatly aligned when water molecules are vibrated by specified sound waves and/or ultrasound waves. By controlling the electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic waves, sound waves, or ultrasound waves generated by the electrodes using the quality control device 1 of this embodiment, cavitation can be generated, resulting in the formation of multiple microbubbles in the liquid.

The alignment of water molecules or water particles is along the direction of the applied electromagnetic field. Therefore, the alignment of water molecules or water particles can be controlled by controlling the applied electromagnetic field. For example, the electromagnetic field applied by a pair of electrodes 13 and 14 has a fixed direction. However, in Figure 9 below, the electromagnetic field is applied from two orthogonal pairs of electrodes (electrodes 13 and 14, and electrodes 15 and 16). Therefore, by controlling the current or voltage applied to each electrode, the intensity of the electromagnetic field generated between the electrodes can be adjusted. In addition, the direction of the electromagnetic field can also be adjusted, thus controlling the alignment of water molecules or water particles.

Water can be divided into "bound water" and "free water." Bound water is stable due to its bond with other components via hydrogen bonds. In contrast, free water is in a free-floating state, representing the freshness and moisture of food. However, free water molecules readily combine with other components, making food containing free water prone to spoilage. That is, corrosion progresses easily when bacteria, viruses, microorganisms, or active enzymes bind to free water. Furthermore, in its bound water state, bound water can transform into free water over time, with increased temperature, or in dry environments. At this point, it becomes more susceptible to spoilage as it breaks free of hydrogen bonds, becoming part of the cellular components. Therefore, freshness can be maintained by keeping free water in a beaded, bound state (distinguished from the "bound water state") or bound to other cells.

It is believed that the water molecules arranged in a chain by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment form a structure similar to bound water, where free water molecules combine with each other. That is, the water molecules arranged regularly by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment remain within the substance and do not combine with other components, thus keeping the food fresh and moist.

Therefore, by simply installing the quality control device 1 of this embodiment into a container, the arrangement of free water within the container can be controlled, thus maintaining the freshness of the food, medicine, or cells. For example, by using the quality control device 1 as a transport container, food can be transported while maintaining its freshness, even over longer distances than before. Furthermore, the container can be, for example, polystyrene foam; by installing the quality control device 1 of this embodiment into an existing polystyrene foam container, a transport container can be constructed.

Furthermore, once the water molecules, which are regularly arranged by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment, are maintained in a regularly arranged state, they can remain so for several days to several tens of days. Therefore, when the substance being processed is food, medicine, or cells, after the free water is arranged in a beaded state by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment, the freshness of the food, medicine, or cells can be maintained even if they are transferred to another container for storage. In addition, although the water in a substance can be miniaturized by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment as described above, the water-containing cells can also be controlled by arranging the cells themselves in a beaded state or by miniaturizing the cells themselves (for example, miniaturizing a block containing multiple cells).

Furthermore, if a specified voltage is applied to electrodes 13 and 14, the water molecules in the water content of the substance will electrically align themselves in a uniform manner, oriented in a roughly fixed direction (the direction of the electric field). At this time, the conductivity of the substance increases due to the uniform alignment of the water molecules. Even when the substance is a liquid, the water molecules can still be made to align in a uniform manner, thus increasing the conductivity, for example, in the case of pure water. In addition, because the water molecules vibrate at a constant frequency in the electric field, they will not crystallize near 0°C.

Furthermore, if a specified voltage is applied to electrodes 13 and 14, the hydrogen bonds of water molecules in the substance are suppressed, thus reducing the number of hydrogen bonds and, for example, producing physiologically viable water. Moreover, by adding microbubbles, nanobubbles, or other small bubbles to this water, water with even higher functionality can be obtained. This high-functionalization of liquids caused by the electric field and microbubbles is not limited to water; for example, it can also be applied to aqueous solutions, emulsions, oils, etc.

Furthermore, if a specified voltage is applied to electrodes 13 and 14, the hydration of water molecules in the substance will be promoted. For example, if proteins and other substances contained in the substance are hydrated and combined with water molecules to form a state in which proteins and other substances are surrounded by water molecules, the deterioration of the substance can be inhibited.

Figure 3 is a microscopic photograph of free water. Figure 3A shows the state of free water before an electric field is applied, and Figure 3B shows the state of free water when an electric field is applied. As shown in Figure 3B, in the free electrons when an electric field is applied, a beaded arrangement of water particles can be observed in the areas marked with white underlines. In contrast, as shown in Figure 3A, a beaded arrangement of water particles cannot be observed in the free water before an electric field is applied. Figure 3 confirms that the free water can be made into a beaded state by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment. Figure 3 shows the beaded arrangement of the water phase in the oil phase, but the beaded arrangement of liquids can also be controlled similarly by controlling the applied electric field in other types of liquids.

Figure 4 shows the simulation results of the water particle potential. Figure 4A is an explanatory diagram of the simulation model, and Figure 4B is the result of the potential simulation. As shown in Figure 4A, the simulation model has four water particles arranged in a chain in the center and two independent water particles as free water on the left side.

Figure 4B shows three regions of equipotentiality in vertical cross-sections along the longitudinal direction of the water particles. The rightmost cross-section shows that the water particles within the beaded arrangement are at the same potential. Furthermore, the region of four beaded water particles in the center of the figure is colored approximately the same color, indicating that the potentials of these four beaded regions are approximately equal.

Electric field lines run through four water particles arranged in a beaded pattern, indicating that these four water particles attract each other. Furthermore, electric field lines from the four beaded water particles also run through two independent water particles that are located to the left, away from the four beaded water particles. Therefore, it is believed that the force attracting the four beaded water particles also acts on these two independent water particles, suggesting the possibility that two independent water particles could join the arrangement of the four beaded water particles.

[Regarding the reduction of interfacial tension]

In W/O emulsions (e.g., tiny water droplets in edible oil), the interfacial tension can be reduced when an electromagnetic field is applied by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment. In this case, the reduction in interfacial tension can be achieved by, for example, 10% or more; furthermore, depending on the electromagnetic field conditions, it can be achieved by 20% or more; and furthermore, if the DC component voltage and AC component voltage are appropriately controlled, for example, the interfacial tension can be reduced by 60% or more. This is believed to be due to the increase in interfacial polarization formed by the application of the electromagnetic field.

For example, when cooking food in cooking oil, the moisture contained in the food turns into water vapor in the oil, and the water droplets that detach from the food into the oil are tiny droplets. If these tiny droplets generate interfacial polarization sufficient to reduce interfacial tension, then they will form a beaded arrangement of tiny droplets generated by the attraction between dipoles.

When frying food in an oil-filled fryer, if the quality control device 1 of this embodiment is equipped with a pair of electrodes 13 and 14, the interfacial tension at the oil/water interface can be reduced. Generally, when food is heated for cooking, the water trapped within the food evaporates into the oil, causing boiling. According to the quality control device 1 of this embodiment, by generating a predetermined electromagnetic field, the surface tension at the oil/water interface can be reduced. As a result, when the water trapped within the food separates, it becomes small droplets in the oil, making it easier to disperse. Therefore, even if it vaporizes into water in the heated oil, the boiling is reduced. Furthermore, the free water trapped within the food is arranged in a beaded pattern by the applied electromagnetic field, making it difficult for water to escape from the food. By controlling the water trapped within the food in this way and suppressing boiling, the effect of inhibiting oil penetration into the food is achieved. In addition, the texture and taste of the cooked food become excellent.

Figures 5 and 6 are graphs showing the reduction of the interfacial tension between edible oil and water by the quality control device 1 of this embodiment. Figure 5 is a graph showing the interfacial tension between edible oil and water when the frequency and voltage value (0-75V) of the applied voltage are changed, and Figure 6 is a graph showing the interfacial tension between edible oil and water when the frequency and voltage value (0-150V) of the voltage applied to the electrodes are changed. Figures 5 and 6 differ from the measuring device described in the item [Regarding the reduction of interfacial tension]. In this device, water is placed in the lower layer and edible oil in the upper layer of a cylindrical container, with the two in contact at the interface. A pair of stainless steel electrodes are inserted into the container, and the interfacial tension between the edible oil and water is measured while applying AC voltages of various frequencies and values. The interfacial tension is measured using a Face Automatic Surface Tensiometer (Kyowa Interface Science Co., Ltd.). Furthermore, a pair of flat electrodes are used as electrodes, but this is not a limitation; for example, curved electrodes along the inner wall of the cylindrical container or flexible electrodes such as stainless steel foil can be arranged along the inner surface of the container.

Figure 5 is a graph showing the interfacial tension between edible oil and water when the frequency of the AC voltage applied to the electrodes varies between 10 kHz and 50 kHz, and the voltage varies between 0 V and 75 V. As shown in Figure 5, the interfacial tension between edible oil and water is related to the frequency and voltage value of the AC voltage applied to the electrodes. Specifically, as the frequency decreases from 50 kHz to 20 kHz, and then further to 10 kHz, the interfacial tension decreases. Conversely, as the voltage value increases from 0 V to 75 V, the interfacial tension decreases. Therefore, by utilizing this correlation between the interfacial tension and the frequency and voltage value of the AC voltage applied to the electrodes, the quality control device 1 adjusts the applied voltage, thereby controlling the interfacial tension. For example, when the quality control device 1 is applied to a deep fryer, as described above, if the interfacial tension decreases, the water trapped in the food separates and disperses easily in the cooking oil as tiny droplets of small size. Therefore, even if it vaporizes as water vapor in the heated cooking oil, the boiling-off event is reduced. However, by controlling the interfacial tension using the quality control device 1, the degree of boiling-off can be adjusted. Therefore, the voltage applied to the electrodes can be set according to various cooking conditions using the deep fryer, the type, state, or quantity of the food. Thus, even under different cooking conditions using the deep fryer, the interfacial tension can be appropriately controlled by applying an appropriate voltage to the electrodes, resulting in excellent texture and flavor of the cooked food. This method is also useful for feedback control of the voltage applied to the electrodes. Furthermore, since interfacial tension can be measured or predicted, it can also be used as one of the control parameters.

Figure 6 is a graph showing the interfacial tension between edible oil and water when the frequency of the AC voltage applied to the electrodes varies between 10 kHz and 20 kHz, and the voltage varies between 0 V and 160 V. Figure 6 is a measurement example using a specific experimental setup. Even if the measurement results cannot be extended to all measurement systems, it shows that there is a correlation between interfacial tension and the frequency and voltage value of the AC voltage applied to the electrodes. By adjusting the frequency and voltage value of the AC voltage applied to the electrodes using this correlation, the interfacial tension can be optimized. By clarifying the relationship between the effect of the quality control device 1 of this embodiment and interfacial tension, not only in the case of fryers, but also in other applications, such as for cold preservation or storage, the effect can be optimized based on the relationship with interfacial tension. The measurement of interfacial tension is relatively easy; therefore, the optimization of the quality control device 1 of this embodiment can be analyzed based on the relationship with interfacial tension, thereby enabling more appropriate and easier control of the voltage applied to the electrodes.

Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the reduction of interfacial tension between the aqueous and oil phases. However, the interfacial tension between a liquid phase and a phase different from that liquid can also be controlled by controlling the applied electromagnetic field. Controlling the interfacial tension of liquids can be applied not only to the interfacial tension between liquid phases and other liquid phases, but also to the interfacial tension between liquid and gas phases, and between liquid and solid phases. For example, interfacial tension and contact angle can be controlled by applying an electromagnetic field using the quality control device of this embodiment.

Figure 7 shows a photograph of water droplets falling into oil, illustrating the situation when physiological saline solution is dripped into edible oil through a thin tube (a 1.0 mm diameter metal pipette). A ring electrode is positioned around the tip of the thin tube, and a voltage of 100 V is applied between the thin tube and the ring electrode. Without the applied voltage, the water droplet does not fall into the oil. With the applied voltage, the interfacial tension between the edible oil and the physiological saline solution decreases, allowing the water droplet to fall into the oil. In Figure 7, the dispersion of tiny water bubbles around the falling water droplet is visible. The applied voltage reduces the interfacial tension, thus decreasing the droplet size, and further, tiny water bubbles are generated as the droplet falls.

When voltage was applied, drops of physiological saline solution fell into the edible oil, but the moment of droplet falling was observed using a high-speed camera. Figure 8A shows the state before voltage was applied, Figure 8B shows the state at the beginning of voltage application, and Figure 8C shows the state after voltage was applied, in the order of Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C in time sequence. If voltage is applied, then as shown in Figures 8B and 8C, microbubbles can be identified. In addition, there are also parts that are not clearly distinguishable from the gases generated by the electrodes due to electrolysis.

By using the quality control device of this embodiment to control the electromagnetic field applied to the substance, it is possible to act on the moisture present inside or on the surface of the substance, thereby preventing, inhibiting or controlling moisture deterioration, turbidity, color turbidity, algae growth, slipperiness, rusting or mold growth, etc.

[Example 1 of the variation]

Referring to Figure 9, the quality control device, quality control method, procedure, and storage medium of Variation 1 will be described. Figure 9 is a conceptual diagram of the electrodes of Variation 1. The same symbols are used for configurations identical to those in Figures 1 to 8, and their descriptions are omitted. The quality control device of Variation 1 differs from the quality control device of Embodiment 1 in that it has two pairs of electrodes.

The quality control device 1A includes controllers 10A and 10B, and first electrodes 13 and 14 and second electrodes 15 and 16 as two pairs of electrodes. Controllers 10A and 10B each have an AC component voltage generator and a DC component voltage generator. In the actual circuit configuration of the controller 10, it is not necessary to separately provide the AC component voltage generator and the DC component voltage generator; a circuit configuration that combines the functions of both can also be used. Alternatively, the two controllers 10A and 10B can be configured as one controller. Furthermore, as long as the first electrodes 13 and 14 and the second electrodes 15 and 16 generate the same electromagnetic waves, a single controller can apply voltage to both the first electrodes 13 and 14 and the second electrodes 15 and 16.

The quality control device 1A is driven by controllers 10A and 10B to generate an electric field between a pair of electrodes 13 and 14 of the first electrode and between a pair of electrodes 15 and 16 of the second electrode. At this time, electrodes 13 to 16 function as antennas, generating electromagnetic fields by radiating electromagnetic waves between the two electrodes 13 and 14 of the first electrode and between the two electrodes 15 and 16 of the second electrode. Therefore, at least one of an electric field, a magnetic field, an electromagnetic field, and electromagnetic waves is generated between the two electrodes 13 to 14 and 15 to 16. Furthermore, similar to Embodiment 1, sound waves and/or ultrasonic waves can be generated between electrodes by applying vibration to electrodes 13 and 14 using electrical, magnetic, or mechanical mechanisms. Furthermore, by vibrating water molecules with prescribed sound waves and/or ultrasonic waves, water molecules can be neatly arranged even without applying voltage between the electrodes.

A substance intended for processing is disposed between the first electrodes 13 and 14 and between the second electrodes 15 and 16. Similar to Embodiment 1, the substance intended for processing is not particularly limited as long as it is at least one of a solid, liquid, or gas. When the quality control device 1A of this embodiment is installed in a refrigerator, for example, the first electrodes 13 and 14 can be disposed on the side inside the refrigerator, and the second electrodes 15 and 16 can be disposed on the top, bottom, or shelf of the refrigerator. FIG9 shows an example of the first electrodes 13 and 14 and the second electrodes 15 and 16 being arranged orthogonally, but the present invention is not limited to this arrangement. The first electrodes 13 and 14 and the second electrodes 15 and 16 can be arranged in any manner as long as at least a portion of the electromagnetic fields generated by the first electrodes 13 and 14 and the electromagnetic fields generated by the second electrodes 15 and 16 act on the substance intended for processing.

Controllers 10A and 10B perform feedback control on at least one of the current value, voltage value, frequency, and phase applied to the electrodes based on detection signals from a detector (not shown). The detector includes at least one of the following: a voltage sensor for detecting the voltage applied to the electrodes; a current sensor for detecting the current applied to the electrodes; a frequency sensor for detecting the frequency of the voltage and/or current applied to the electrodes; a magnetic field sensor for detecting the magnetic field between the two electrodes 13-14 and 15-16; an electric field sensor for detecting the electric field between the two electrodes 13-14 and 15-16; a voltage phase detection sensor; a current phase detection sensor; and a voltage and current phase detection sensor.

The target control value of at least one of the current value, voltage value, frequency, and phase in controllers 10A and 10B is set according to the type or state of the substance to be processed. Furthermore, the current, voltage, frequency, and phase applied by controller 10A to the first electrodes 13 and 14 can be the same as, or different from, the current, voltage, frequency, and phase applied by controller 10B to the second electrodes 15 and 16. For example, various combinations can be made, such as different voltages and frequencies, different frequencies, or different frequencies and phases.

The target control value can be set remotely via a communicator (not shown). Additionally, the control parameters or quantities of controllers 10A and 10B can also be remotely controlled. Thus, a server 40 located at a remote location can centrally manage and appropriately control the controllers 10A and 10B of multiple quality control devices 1A. However, the control method for controllers 10A and 10B is not limited to remote control from the server 40; for example, the controllers 10A and 10B of each quality control device 1A can also be individually controlled by directly setting the target control value or setting the control parameters for each controller 10A and 10B.

In Figure 9, an electromagnetic field is applied by two pairs of orthogonal electrodes (X-direction electrodes 13 and 14, and Y-direction electrodes 15 and 16). Therefore, by controlling the current or voltage applied to each electrode, the intensity of the electromagnetic field generated between the electrodes can be adjusted. In addition, the direction of the electromagnetic field can also be adjusted, thus controlling the alignment direction of water molecules or water particles. The current or voltage applied to the X-direction electrodes 13 and 14 is controlled by controller 10A, and the current or voltage applied to the Y-direction electrodes 15 and 16 is controlled by controller 10B. As a result, for example, by adjusting the ratio of the voltage value applied to the X-direction electrodes 13 and 14 to the voltage value applied to the Y-direction electrodes 15 and 16, the intensity and direction of the electromagnetic field generated by each electrode can be adjusted. Therefore, water particles inside or on the surface of a substance disposed in this electromagnetic field can be micronized, and the alignment state of the micronized water particles can be controlled in the desired direction. Not only can AC voltage be applied to each electrode, but DC voltage can also be applied. Therefore, by adjusting the DC voltage component, the arrangement of water molecules inside or on the surface of the substance arranged in the electromagnetic field generated by each electrode in any two-dimensional direction of the X-Y coordinates can be controlled. In addition to the two pairs of electrodes in FIG9, X-direction electrodes 13, 14, and Y-direction electrodes 15, 16, another pair of Z-direction electrodes (not shown) and controller 10C can be added, thereby generating electromagnetic waves of the desired direction and intensity in three-dimensional space. Therefore, the arrangement of water molecules inside or on the surface of the substance arranged in the electromagnetic field generated by each electrode can be controlled in any three-dimensional direction. As described below, by using the quality control device of this embodiment to control the microparticle formation of water molecules inside or on the surface of a substance, the state of beaded arrangement along a specific direction, and the direction of such arrangement, the properties of the substance can be improved.

Figure 10 is a conceptual diagram of different electrodes in Variation Example 1. Figure 10A shows an example using one electrode, and Figure 10B shows an example using one electrode and two electrodes opposite to it. In Embodiment 1, an example using one pair of electrodes was described, and in Embodiment 2, an example using two pairs of electrodes was described. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples; for instance, one electrode, three electrodes, or an odd number of electrodes may also be used. For example, as shown in Figure 10A, electromagnetic waves can be generated using only one electrode 17. Furthermore, when using, for example, three electrodes, as shown in Figure 10B, two electrodes 19 and 20 may be opposite one electrode 18, or different electromagnetic waves may be generated by the three electrodes. Therefore, the number or arrangement of electrodes can be arbitrarily set and is not limited.

[Variation Example 2]

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, the quality control apparatus, quality control method, procedure, storage medium, generated substance, article, apparatus, and equipment of Variation 2 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 11 is a waveform diagram using voltages of different frequencies in Variation 2, and FIG. 12 is a waveform diagram using voltages of different phases in Variation 2. The same reference numerals are used for configurations identical to those in FIGS. 11 and 12, and their descriptions are omitted. The quality control apparatus of Variation 2 differs from Embodiment 1 and Variation 1 in that different electromagnetic waves are generated by a pair of electrodes.

In Figure 11, a pair of electrodes 21A and 21B generates an electromagnetic wave (P-wave) with a frequency of 50 kHz from electrode 21A and a electromagnetic wave (Q-wave) with a frequency of 47 kHz from electrode 21B. Here, if the amplitude of the electromagnetic wave is set as A, then the P-wave and Q-wave are represented by the following formulas. Furthermore, at time t = 0, both are represented by the formula at the position where V(t) = 0 (for example, at the exact midpoint between the two electrodes 21A and 21B).

P-wave: V(t) = Asin(2πf1t), f1 = 50kHz

Q wave: V(t) = Asin(2πf²t), f² = 47kHz

Thus, as shown in Figure 11C, the electromagnetic waves of P-wave + Q-wave are applied between a pair of electrodes 21A and 21B.

In Figure 12, an electromagnetic wave (P-wave) with a frequency of 50 kHz is generated by electrode 22A of a pair of electrodes 22A and 22B, while an electromagnetic wave (Q-wave) with a frequency of 30 kHz is generated by electrode 22B. Regarding the phase α of the two waveforms, both are in phase at α = 0. Here, if the amplitude of the electromagnetic wave is set to A, then the P-wave and Q-wave are represented by the following equations. Furthermore, at time t = 0, both are represented by equations at the position where V(t) = 0 (for example, at the exact midpoint between electrodes 21A and 21B).

P-wave: V(t) = Asin(2πf1t), f1 = 50kHz

Q wave: V(t) = Asin(2πf²t), f² = 30kHz

Thus, as shown in Figure 12B, the electromagnetic wave of P wave + Q wave is applied between a pair of electrodes 22A and 22B.

In Figure 12C, an electromagnetic wave (P-wave) with a frequency of 50 kHz and a phase α = 0 is generated by one electrode 23A of a pair of electrodes 23A and 23B, while an electromagnetic wave (Q-wave) with a frequency of 30 kHz and a phase α = π/2 is generated by the other electrode 23B. That is, the phase of the two waveforms is set to π/2. Here, if the amplitude of the electromagnetic wave is set to A, then the P-wave and Q-wave are represented by the following formulas. In addition, at time t = 0, the formulas at the position where P-wave V(t) = 0 and Q-wave V(t) = A (for example, the position at the exact midpoint between the two electrodes 21A and 21B) are used.

P-wave: V(t) = Asin(2πf1t), f1 = 50kHz

Q wave: V(t)=Asin(2πf2t+π/2), f2=30kHz

Thus, as shown in Figure 12D, the electromagnetic waves of P-wave + Q-wave are applied between a pair of electrodes 23A and 23B.

In Figures 11 and 12, electromagnetic waves with different frequencies and/or phases are generated by the two electrodes. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the inter-peak voltage of the electromagnetic waves can be controlled by adjusting the AC component voltage applied to the two electrodes, or the DC component voltage applied to the two electrodes can be adjusted and the DC component voltage applied to the AC component voltage can be used as an offset voltage, or the DC component voltage applied to the two electrodes can be made different, or the inter-peak voltage value, frequency and phase of the AC component voltage applied to the two electrodes can be made different, etc.

[Variation Example 3]

Referring to FIG13, the moisture control device, moisture control method, program, storage medium, generated substance, product, apparatus, and equipment of Embodiment 1, Variation 3 of the present invention will be described. FIG13 is a block diagram of moisture control device 1. The same reference numerals are used for configurations identical to those in FIGS. 1 to 12, and their descriptions are omitted.

Figure 13 is a block diagram corresponding to Figure 1. The communication unit 35, storage unit 37, and external power supply 39 are omitted. That is, in reality, the control unit 36 communicates with the management server 40 via the communication unit 35, performs data input/output with the storage unit 37, receives power from the external power supply 39, and controls the current and voltage application unit 11 via the current and voltage control unit 33; however, these operations are omitted in Figure 13. Furthermore, in Figure 13, the controller 10 is shown outside the housing 50 (e.g., a refrigerator), but this is not a limitation; for example, the controller 10 may be located inside the housing 50.

The processes (a) to (h) in Figure 13 will be explained sequentially. In process (a), the controller 10 is set by inputting from the human-machine interface 31, including on/off state, operating mode, type or state of substance, and output voltage and/or output current of the current/voltage application unit 11. Operating modes include, for example, automatic mode, substance input mode, and manual setting mode. In automatic mode, for example, as described below, the controller 10 is automatically controlled to ensure the substance is in an appropriate state based on detection signals from the substance detection unit 32, detection signals from the detection unit 38, and control parameters or control values from the management server 40. In substance input mode, for example, the controller 10 is appropriately controlled based on the substance by inputting the type or state of substance from the human-machine interface 31. In manual setting mode, for example, the output voltage and/or output current of the current/voltage application unit 11 is manually set. Unless otherwise specified, the automatic mode will be used as an example for explanation. In addition, in process (a), if the housing 50 also has an automatic adjustment function, it can also be configured to allow input of settings for the housing 50 from the human-machine interface 31.

In process (b), relevant information about the substance is collected from the substance detection unit 32 via instructions from the control unit 36. For example, if the housing 50 is a refrigerator, the relevant information collected by the substance detection unit 32 includes images from a camera inside the refrigerator, detection signals related to food moisture obtained from a moisture sensor, and detection signals from a temperature sensor or humidity sensor (including detection signals from sensors built into the refrigerator). Alternatively, if the housing 50 is a container, the relevant information collected by the substance detection unit 32 includes images from a camera inside the container, detection signals from a temperature sensor or humidity sensor inside the container, and signals from a GPS (Global Positioning System) installed in the container (the GPS may also be installed in the controller 10). In addition, for example, if the housing 50 is a deep fryer, the relevant information about the substance collected by the substance detection unit 32 includes images of the food to be cooked by a camera, detection signals of food moisture obtained by a moisture sensor, detection signals of food temperature, detection signals of the temperature of the oil in the deep fryer, information about the type of oil in the deep fryer, and information about the oil replacement period in the deep fryer.

In process (c), the relevant information about the substance collected by the substance detection unit 32 according to the instructions from the CPU 36 is sent to the management server 40 via the communication unit 35. Furthermore, if process (a) is set to substance input mode, information about the type or status of the substance input from the human-machine interface 31 is sent to the management server 40.

Furthermore, if the setting in process (a) is in manual setting mode, for example, information about the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 can be sent to the management server 40. After the management server 40 makes the prescribed corrections, the management server 40 sends the prescribed control parameters or control values to the control unit 36. Alternatively, for example, in order to collect information in the management server 40, the manually set output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 can be sent to the management server 40, and the control value is calculated in the control unit 36. Alternatively, for example, if the management server 40 does not need to correct the control value or collect information, then in process (c), it is not necessary to send the output voltage and/or output current information to the management server 40.

In the management server 40, appropriate control parameters or control values are calculated based on the type and state of the substance. Furthermore, when calculating control parameters or control values in the management server 40, in addition to referring to the type and state of the substance, information such as season, weather, weather forecast, date and time, location, supply and demand forecast, refrigerator entry and exit or storage status, container transport routes and traffic conditions, the status of a group of containers related to that container, inventory management information, the disorder status of the store, economic indicators, and information on the network can be referenced through communication with the database 43, etc.

The type or state of a substance can be determined in the management server 40 by image recognition from camera images collected from relevant information about the substance by the substance detection unit 32. This image recognition can, for example, use AI (Artificial Intelligence) trained by deep learning to accurately identify the type or state of the substance. That is, a neural network trained using camera images of food and data on the actual type or state of the food can accurately identify the type or state of the substance based on the camera images. The server also communicates with other controllers 10, thereby storing a large amount of image recognition data, which further improves the accuracy of image recognition for various substances. Furthermore, if the controller 10 has an AI program, a pre-trained learning model can be used in the management server 40 to perform image recognition in the control unit 36, and the image recognition result can be sent to the server 40 in process (c). By performing image recognition in the controller 10 in this way, the amount of data transmission in process (c) can be reduced.

In process (d), the control parameters or control values calculated in the management server 40 are sent to the control unit 36 of the controller 10.

In process (e), the control unit 36 uses control parameters or control values sent from the management server 40 to control the output voltage and/or output current of the current and voltage application unit 11.

In process (f), the control unit 36 performs feedback control on at least one of the current value, voltage value, frequency, and phase applied to each electrode 13, 14 based on the detection signal detected by the detection unit 38. Furthermore, the detection signal detected by the detection unit 38 includes at least one of the voltage applied to the electrode, the current applied to the electrode, the frequency and/or phase of the voltage and/or current applied to the electrode, the magnetic field between the two electrodes 13, 14, the electric field between the two electrodes 13, 14, and the sound wave and/or ultrasonic wave between the two electrodes 13, 14. At this time, the feedback control value can be the control value calculated by the control unit 36, or it can be the control value calculated by the management server 40.

Here, if the feedback control value is the control value calculated in the control unit 36, the control target value is sent from the management server 40 to the control unit 36 in process (d). Alternatively, in manual mode, the set value as the control target value is input in process (a). Furthermore, the control target value can be set variably over time based on the relevant information of the substance collected by the substance detection unit 32. Additionally, if the feedback control value is the control value calculated in the management server 40, in order to calculate the feedback control value in the management server 40, the detection signal detected by the detection unit 38 is sent to the management server 40 in process (c), the feedback control value is calculated in the management server 40, and the control value is sent from the management server 40 to the control unit 36 via process (d).

In this embodiment, an example using the detection unit 38 has been described, but control without the detection unit 38 can also be performed. In this case, process (f) is omitted, and the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 is controlled by process (e). Furthermore, various controls such as sensorless control or open-loop control can be applied in this control.

In process (g), if the housing 50 has an automatic adjustment function, control commands from the control unit 36 can be sent to the housing 50. If the housing 50 is a refrigerator, the control command is, for example, a setpoint for the temperature or humidity inside the refrigerator. If the housing 50 is a container and the container has a temperature or humidity adjustment function, the control command is, for example, a setpoint for the temperature or humidity of the container. Furthermore, if the housing 50 is a container and the container is stored in a warehouse with adjustable temperature or humidity, as described below, information related to the temperature or humidity adjustment of the container is sent to an external server and the warehouse management server (database 43) via process (i). This information is used to appropriately adjust the temperature or humidity status of all containers, including other containers. If the housing 50 is a deep fryer, the control command is, for example, a setpoint for the temperature of the oil in the oil tank. Additionally, the oil replacement period can be reported as needed. Furthermore, if the housing 50 does not have an automatic adjustment function, process (g) is not necessary. In this case, for example, in process (h) below, information related to the control commands from the control unit 36 is displayed on the human-machine interface 31.

In process (h), the control status of the control unit 36, such as the control status of the output voltage and/or output current of the current and voltage application unit 11, information on the type and status of the substance currently being processed, the status of the housing 50 (detection information from the substance detection unit 32), and information related to the control commands from the CPU 36 to the housing 50 when the housing 50 does not have an automatic adjustment function, are displayed on the human-machine interface 31. In addition to this information, as needed or based on operations from the human-machine interface 31, information such as season, weather, weather forecast, date and time, location, supply and demand forecast, refrigerator inbound/outbound or storage status, container transport path and traffic conditions, status of a group of containers related to that container, inventory management information, store clutter, economic indicators, and network information are also displayed on the human-machine interface 31 as information sent from the management server 40 in process (d), in addition to control parameters or control values. By referring to this information, the operator can appropriately produce and manage substances.

The human-machine interface 31 can be integrated with the controller 10. Alternatively, the human-machine interface 31 can be separate from the controller 10, or it can be integrated with a portion of the controller 10's functions as an independent entity. In this case, the human-machine interface 31 can also be configured as a mobile terminal with communication functions, such as a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, or PC. When the human-machine interface 31 is integrated with a portion of the controller 10's functions as an independent entity, at least one of the functions of the communication unit 35, the storage unit 37, and the calculation function of the control unit 36 in the controller 10, or a portion thereof, can be integrated with the human-machine interface 31 as an independent entity. Furthermore, the functions of the material detection sensor 32 or the detection unit 38, or a portion thereof, can also be integrated with the human-machine interface 31. For example, the camera function built into a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, or PC can be used as the material detection unit 32.

In process (i), the management server 40 communicates with the database 43 to send and receive information or collect data required for the management of materials. The management server 40 can communicate with necessary external servers via the Internet. Therefore, in the case where the housing 50 is a container, for example, the management database or management server of the warehouse that manages the container can be accessed.

As an example of a refrigerator configuration where the housing 50 is a refrigerator, the operation of this embodiment will be explained using an example where a tablet terminal is used as the human-machine interface 31 and the refrigerator is equipped with an in-fridge camera, temperature and humidity sensors, and automatic temperature and humidity adjustment functions. As an example, the case where the tablet terminal is used to select "automatic mode" as the operation mode, selects "weak" as the refrigeration temperature, and sends the information to the CPU through process (a) will be explained.

The refrigerator camera, which functions as the material detection unit 32, captures images of the area including food stored between at least two electrodes inside the refrigerator. This information is then transmitted to the management server 40 via processes (b) and (c). The management server 40 determines the type and condition of the target food, for example, using AI-based image recognition. Ideally, the camera's field of view inside the refrigerator should capture the entire stored food; multiple cameras can be configured as needed. Furthermore, information detected by the temperature and humidity sensors inside the refrigerator, which function as the material detection unit 32, is transmitted to the management server 40 via processes (b) and (c). The management server 40 uses the type and condition of the food determined through image recognition, along with the transmitted temperature and humidity information, and considers the electromagnetic fields generated by the two electrodes 13 and 14 to calculate control parameters or control values related to the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11. The control parameters or control values differ depending on the type and condition of the stored food, such as when storing leafy vegetables, raw sea bream, or cooked sea bream for simmering.

In process (d), control parameters or control values are sent to the control unit 36, and the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 are appropriately controlled based on them. Furthermore, in process (f), feedback control is performed on the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 based on the detection value of the detector 38. Additionally, in process (g), the refrigerator's temperature and humidity are appropriately controlled based on the information from process (a) (refrigeration temperature "weak") and information calculated by the management server 40.

In process (h), various information about the stored food, along with information sent from the management server 40, can be displayed on the tablet terminal. Examples of information that can be displayed on the tablet terminal include: the type, status, date of entry, shelf life, reports of food nearing its expiration date, menus of dishes using the stored food, cooking methods, and shopping lists, among others. Additionally, process (i) can include the acquisition of data required for calculations in the management server 40. Furthermore, the same information as that obtained using the management server 40 can be obtained through the tablet terminal's communication function; therefore, by sending URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) in processes (d) and (h), the communication volume of processes (d) and (h) can be reduced.

Next, as an example of a configuration where the housing 50 is a container, the operation of this embodiment will be explained using an example where a tablet terminal is used as the human-machine interface 31, the container is equipped with GPS, and the warehouse storing the containers is equipped with a management database and a management server. As an example, the case where information such as "automatic mode" as the operation mode and "apples harvested (just harvested) on X year Y month Z day" as the type and state of the substance is sent to the control unit 36 through process (a) using a tablet terminal will be explained.

The GPS of the material inspection unit 32 sends the container's location information, along with information on the type and status of the materials, to the management server 40 via processes (b) and (c). The management server 40 monitors the container's location and stores information such as containers carrying "apples harvested on [date]" transported by land from the production site and stored in designated warehouses. The management server 40 can also access the management database of the corresponding warehouses via the Internet (process (i)), thus enabling it to monitor the management status of containers in the warehouse.

In the management server 40, using information obtained through process (i), including the container's location information, the type and status of the material, the status within the warehouse, location, season, weather, weather forecast, and the status of a group of containers related to that container, and considering the electromagnetic field generated by the two electrodes 13 and 14, control parameters or control values related to the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 are calculated. Thus, in the management server 40, when storing "apples harvested on [date]" in a specified warehouse, appropriate control parameters or control values can be calculated.

In process (d), control parameters or control values are sent to the control unit 36, and the output voltage and/or output current of the AC component voltage generator 11 and the DC component voltage generator 12 are appropriately controlled based on them. Furthermore, in process (f), the output voltage and/or output current of the AC component voltage generator 11 and the DC component voltage generator 12 are controlled based on the detection value from the detection unit 38. Here, an example is given where the container does not have temperature control functionality; therefore, process (g) is omitted.

In process (h), various information about the materials loaded in the container, along with information sent from the management server 40, can be displayed on the tablet terminal. Examples of information that can be displayed on the tablet terminal include: the type, status, transport route and history, future distribution plans, current storage warehouse, warehouse management status, optimal consumption period, shelf life, and at least one of other relevant container information. Additionally, in process (i), the information required for the management of the container is directly sent from the management server 40 to the management server of the management database of the warehouse storing the container, and used for warehouse management.

Next, as an example of a configuration where the housing 50 is a deep fryer, the operation of this embodiment will be explained using a tablet terminal as a human-machine interface 31, replacing the camera of the material detection sensor, and utilizing the camera of the tablet terminal, with the deep fryer having an automatic oil temperature adjustment function. As an example, the case where "automatic mode" is selected as the operation mode using the tablet terminal, "automatic" is selected as the oil temperature, and the information is sent to the CPU via process (a) will be explained.

Instead of the camera in the material detection unit 32, a camera on a tablet terminal is used to photograph the food being cooked in the fryer, and this information is sent to the management server 40 via process (c). Alternatively, the camera equipped in the fryer that is part of the material detection unit 32 can be used instead of the camera on the tablet terminal. Furthermore, it is preferable to photograph the food only at the very beginning after the ingredients to be cooked have changed. Information on the oil temperature from the fryer, which is part of the material detection unit 32, is also sent to the management server 40 via processes (b) and (c). Furthermore, sensors for measuring the moisture content of the food or the temperature of the food can be installed as needed, and this information can be sent to the management server 40 via processes (b) and (c).

In the management server 40, for example, the type and state of the food to be targeted are determined by using AI image recognition. In the management server 40, the type and state of the food determined by image recognition, various information sent through process (c), and information obtained using process (i) such as season, weather, weather forecast, date and time, location, and the clutter situation of the store are used to set the temperature of the oil in the fryer. Furthermore, considering the electromagnetic field generated by the two electrodes 13 and 14, control parameters or control values related to the output voltage and/or output current of the current and voltage application unit 11 are calculated. Depending on the type and state of the food to be cooked, for example, when cooking shrimp, French fries, or deep-fried chicken nuggets, the control parameters or control values and the temperature of the oil in the fryer differ.

In process (d), control parameters or control values are sent to CPU 36, and the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 are appropriately controlled based on them. Furthermore, in process (f), feedback control is performed on the output voltage and/or output current of the current-voltage application unit 11 based on the detection value of detector 38. Additionally, in process (g), the temperature of the oil in the fryer is appropriately controlled based on information processed by management server 40.

In process (h), various information about the food to be cooked, along with information sent from the management server 40, can be displayed on the tablet terminal. Examples of information that can be displayed on the tablet terminal include: the type and state of the food to be cooked, the temperature of the oil in the fryer, the number of items to be cooked, the history of cooked food, and at least one of the following: the type of food to be cooked. Additionally, process (i) can include the acquisition of data required for calculations in the management server 40. Furthermore, the same information as that obtained using the management server 40 can be obtained through the tablet terminal's communication function; therefore, by sending URLs, etc., only in processes (d) and (h), the communication volume of processes (d) and (h) can be reduced.

[Variation Example 4]

Using FIG14, the quality control device, quality control method, program, and storage medium of Variation 4 of the present invention will be described. The same reference numerals are used for configurations identical to those in FIGS. 1 to 13, and their descriptions are omitted. In the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 1 and Variations 1 to 3, the current or voltage value and frequency are set to predetermined values. However, in Variation 4, the current or voltage value and/or frequency are varied according to predetermined rules and within a predetermined range, i.e., scanning. FIG14A shows an example of continuously scanning the voltage value, current value, or frequency in a linear manner. FIG14B shows an example of changing the voltage value, current value, or frequency in a linear, stepped manner. FIG14C, for example, shows a diagram of changing the voltage value in a stepped manner and continuously scanning the frequency in a linear manner; another example shows a diagram of changing the frequency in a stepped manner and continuously scanning the voltage value in a linear manner. Thus, for any object, electromagnetic waves of appropriate current or voltage value and/or appropriate frequency can be automatically generated. That is, at a specified time point within the scanning range, an appropriate current value, voltage value, or frequency will be generated. Furthermore, Figure 14C is merely an example and is not limited to this. In Figure 14C, one value is in a fixed period, and another value oscillates between 0 and the peak value, but this is not a limitation. For example, it could be configured to repeatedly perform the following changes: one value is in a fixed period, another value increases from 0 to the peak value, then one value changes stepwise, and when that value becomes fixed, the other value decreases from the peak value to 0. Furthermore, in Figure 14C, one value changes stepwise, and the other value changes continuously and frequently from 0 to the peak value, but this is not a limitation; for example, it could be configured that one value changes slowly and continuously, and the other value changes continuously and frequently from 0 to the peak value.

The scanning rules are not limited to those shown in Figure 14. Besides linear or step-like changes, they can also include curved changes, sinusoidal changes, analog smoothing changes, discrete changes, random changes, etc. Changes can be made to AC voltage values, DC voltage values, AC current values, DC current values, frequencies, etc. In this case, each value can be changed individually, multiple values can be changed in a related manner (for example, see Figure 14C), or multiple values can be changed simultaneously. Regarding the scanning range, it can be performed within the range specified in Variation Examples 1 to 3, or it can be extended to a wider range.

For any object, appropriate current, voltage, or frequency is generated at a specified time point within the scanning range. Alternatively, the controller 10 can grasp the object's state based on feedback from the material detection sensor 32, etc., and analyze it in accordance with the scanning change pattern, or perform analysis on the server side, thereby automatically detecting appropriate (or optimal) current, voltage, or frequency values. The detected appropriate values can also be used for control of the subsequent controller 10 and shared among other controllers 10 via the server.

The following description uses a stringed instrument as an example to illustrate the sound quality control device 1 of Embodiment 1. There are cases where the electrodes are directly mounted on the instrument and cases where the electrodes are mounted on the instrument case. However, in the sensory test, the electrodes are mounted on the instrument case, and after irradiating the instrument with electromagnetic waves for a specified time, the performance results are studied. Figure 15(A) shows the case where electrode 24 is mounted on a guitar, Figure 15(B) shows the case where electrodes 25-28 are mounted on a guitar case, and Figure 15(C) shows the case where the electrodes are disposed inside the guitar.

The direction of the electromagnetic waves applied to the guitar from the electrodes can be adjusted according to their placement on the guitar or guitar case. This allows for the miniaturization of moisture inside or on the surface of the guitar, and the resulting miniaturized moisture is arranged in a beaded pattern. The direction of this arrangement is controlled to correspond to the desired direction of the applied electromagnetic waves, thereby controlling the guitar's quality. In particular, the moisture content of the guitar's wood also affects its sound quality; therefore, controlling the moisture distribution in different parts of the guitar helps improve its tone. The configuration and number of electrodes can be adjusted appropriately according to the guitar's or case's construction. For example, two pairs of electrodes can be positioned in intersecting directions to generate an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction in a two-dimensional direction. Alternatively, three pairs of electrodes can be positioned in intersecting directions to generate an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction in a three-dimensional direction. In this case, by applying an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction to the guitar from the electrodes in two-dimensional or three-dimensional directions, the moisture inside or on the surface of the guitar can be miniaturized according to its shape, and the resulting miniaturized moisture is arranged in a beaded pattern. This arrangement is then controlled to the desired direction, thereby controlling the guitar's quality.

In Figure 15(A), a negative electrode 24B (the electrode on the ground side) is installed on the front panel of the guitar, and a positive electrode 24A is installed on the back panel. The controller 10 (not shown) is configured separately from the guitar, but it can also be installed on the guitar. The voltage applied to the electrodes when irradiating the guitar with electromagnetic waves is not particularly limited; for example, it can be set to AC 100V and a frequency of 50kHz. The effect is obtained when the electromagnetic wave irradiation time is approximately 5 minutes or more, and is not particularly limited; for example, applying the electromagnetic wave for about 10 minutes is sufficient. Therefore, for example, if electromagnetic waves are applied to the electrodes for about 10 minutes before using the guitar, the effect on moisture present inside or on the surface of the guitar obtained by irradiating the guitar with electromagnetic waves through the sound quality control device of this embodiment is maintained after the irradiation stops, and the good effect described below can be maintained. Therefore, the power supply to the controller only needs to be for, for example, 10 minutes of irradiating the guitar with electromagnetic waves from the electrodes, thus increasing the freedom of the power supply method; for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery, can also be used as the power source. If the power source is a rechargeable battery, then as long as the battery is fully charged when the guitar is not in use and a commercial power source is available, the guitar can be exposed to electromagnetic waves from the electrodes for, for example, 10 minutes before playing. Figure 15(A) illustrates an example of mounting electrodes 24A and 24B on the front and back of the guitar body, but this embodiment is not limited to this; for example, they can also be mounted on the neck or sides of the guitar. Furthermore, the configuration of electrodes 24A and 24B is determined considering their influence on the guitar's vibration or resonance.

In Figure 15(B), an electrode 27 is built into the body of the electric guitar. An example is shown where there is only one electrode 27, but a pair of electrodes can also be used. In this case, for example, the negative electrode (the grounded electrode) can be installed on the front panel side of the guitar body, and the positive electrode on the back panel side. The controller 10 (not shown) is separate from the guitar, but it can also be installed on the guitar. The voltage applied to the electrodes when irradiating the guitar with electromagnetic waves is not particularly limited; for example, it can be set to AC 100V and a frequency of 50kHz. Similar to the case in Figure 15(A), the effect can be obtained when the electromagnetic wave irradiation time is about 5 minutes or more, and is not particularly limited. For example, it is sufficient to apply the electromagnetic wave for about 10 minutes. Afterward, even without applying electromagnetic waves, the effect on moisture present inside or on the surface of the guitar obtained by irradiating it with electromagnetic waves through the quality control device of this embodiment can be maintained, thus maintaining the good effect described below.

In Figure 15(C), a positive electrode 25A is installed on the bottom surface of the guitar case corresponding to the neck, and a negative electrode (grounded electrode) 25B is installed on the inner surface of the guitar case lid corresponding to the neck. A positive electrode 26A is installed on the bottom surface of the guitar case corresponding to the guitar body, and a negative electrode (grounded electrode) 26B is installed on the inner surface of the guitar case lid corresponding to the guitar body. A controller 10 (not shown) is installed in the guitar case. Ideally, the controller 10 is battery-powered, but this is not particularly limited. Alternatively, the controller 10 can be placed away from the guitar case, or it can be driven by a commercial power supply. The voltage applied to the electrodes that irradiate the guitar with electromagnetic waves is not particularly limited; for example, it can be set to AC 100V at a frequency of 50kHz.

Figure 15(C) illustrates an example of electrodes being provided on the inner surface of a guitar case, but this electrode configuration is an example and is not intended to limit this embodiment. The number of electrodes need to be at least one; for example, one or more pairs of electrodes can be provided, and electromagnetic waves can be irradiated onto the guitar using the sound quality control device of this embodiment. The setting for irradiating electromagnetic waves from the electrodes provided on the inner surface of the guitar case using the sound quality control device of this embodiment is not particularly limited; the voltage applied to the electrodes is AC 100V, frequency 50kHz, and the application time is set to 10 minutes. If, for example, 10 minutes are spent irradiating the guitar with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment before using the guitar, then after stopping the irradiation and removing the guitar from the case, the effect on moisture present inside or on the surface of the guitar obtained by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment is maintained, thus maintaining the good effect described below. Thus, in order to maintain the effect even after the guitar is taken out of the storage box, when the electrodes of the sound quality control device 1 are placed in the storage box, it is not necessary to install the sound quality control device 1 on the guitar body. Therefore, the sound quality control device 1 will not cause unnecessary impact on the guitar's original vibration or resonance characteristics.

Figure 15(D) shows another example of the quality control device of this embodiment installed in a guitar case. Electrode 13 is mounted on the inner surface of the guitar case lid, electrode 14 is mounted on the bottom surface of the guitar storage section, and controller 10 is mounted on the inner side of the guitar case. Figure 15(D) shows a power line for supplying power from a commercial power source, but this embodiment is not limited to this; for example, a battery-powered type may also be used. Alternatively, controller 10 may be located away from the guitar case. The voltage applied to the electrodes that irradiate electromagnetic waves onto the guitar is not particularly limited; for example, it may be set to AC 100V at a frequency of 50kHz.

Figure 15(D) illustrates an example of providing a pair of electrodes on the inner surface and bottom surface of a guitar case, but this electrode configuration is an example and does not limit this embodiment. The number of electrodes need to be at least one; for example, one or more pairs of electrodes can be provided, and electromagnetic waves can be irradiated onto the guitar using the sound quality control device of this embodiment. The setting for irradiating electromagnetic waves from the electrodes provided on the inner surface of the guitar case using the sound quality control device of this embodiment is not particularly limited; the voltage applied to the electrodes is AC 100V, frequency 50kHz, and the application time is set to 10 minutes. If, for example, 10 minutes are spent irradiating the guitar with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment before using the guitar, then after stopping the irradiation and removing the guitar from the storage case, the effect on moisture present inside or on the surface of the guitar obtained by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment is maintained, thus maintaining the good effect described below.

In the quality control device shown in Figure 15(D), a thermometer and a hygrometer are built into or externally mounted on the controller 10. The controller 10 controls the current or voltage applied to electrodes 13 and 14 by measuring the temperature and humidity inside the guitar case and applying an electromagnetic field suitable for the temperature and humidity inside the guitar case. A display unit is provided on the outer surface of the controller 10 or the guitar case to display information from the controller 10. This display unit can show the temperature and humidity detected by the thermometer and hygrometer along with the control information. The control information includes control parameters such as power on/off, setting mode, set value, and measured value.

The types of musical instruments are not limited to stringed instruments; they can be applied to all instruments, including wind instruments and percussion instruments. Examples include: violins, guitars, cellos, basses, ukuleles, flutes, reeds, pianos, xylophones, and other wooden instruments; drums, taiko drums, and other leather instruments; and shamisen, etc., instruments made of both wood and leather. Furthermore, audio devices other than musical instruments are also included in this embodiment. For example, audio-visual equipment made of wood, such as loudspeakers and woofers, and hearing aids made of wood or resin, such as headphones, are also included in this embodiment.

<Sensory Tests>

The guitar used by the subject was tuned, and the first to sixth strings were played with equal force, followed by open chords. The sound was recorded. Then, the front, back, soundboard, neck, and strings of the guitar were exposed to electromagnetic waves generated by the sound quality control device of this embodiment for 10 minutes each. Afterward, the first to sixth strings were played with equal force, followed by open chords. The sound was recorded. The subject evaluated the sound quality of the guitar based on sustain, volume, and attack. Furthermore, the smoothness of the strings was evaluated based on the tactile sensation of the subject playing the guitar. The parameters for electromagnetic wave control using the sound quality control device of this embodiment were set to an AC voltage of 100V and a frequency of 50kHz.

<Results of the Functional Tests>

Figure 16 shows the results of the functional tests on the acoustic guitar, Figure 17 shows the results of the functional tests on the tone when the electric guitar is connected to the amplifier, Figure 18 shows the results of the functional tests on the double bass, and Figure 19 shows the results of the functional tests on the ukulele.

In Figure 16, 15 subjects participated in a sensory test of the acoustic guitar. 14 subjects rated the sustain as better after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 93%. Additionally, 14 subjects rated the sound as better after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 93%. Furthermore, 15 subjects rated the neck's onset as better after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 100%. Additionally, 15 subjects rated the guitar as easier to slide after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 100%. The results of the sensory test of the acoustic guitar show that, for all evaluation items, the high evaluation rate was higher when irradiated with electromagnetic waves generated by the sound quality control device of this embodiment.

In Figure 17, 15 subjects participated in a sensory test on an electric guitar. Nine subjects rated the sustain as better after irradiation, a high evaluation rate of 60%. Additionally, 12 subjects rated the sound as better after irradiation, a high evaluation rate of 80%. Furthermore, 11 subjects rated the neck's onset as better after irradiation, a high evaluation rate of 73%. Additionally, 15 subjects rated the guitar as easier to slide after irradiation, a high evaluation rate of 100%. The results of the sensory test on the electric guitar show that, for all evaluation items, the high evaluation rate was higher when irradiated with electromagnetic waves generated by the sound quality control device of this embodiment.

In Figure 18, three subjects conducted a sensory test on a double bass. Two subjects rated the sustain as better after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 66%. Additionally, three subjects rated the sound as better after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 100%. Furthermore, three subjects rated the neck as having better onset after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 100%. Additionally, three subjects rated the string sliding as easier after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 100%. The results of the sensory test on the double bass showed that, for all evaluation items, the high evaluation rate was higher when irradiated with electromagnetic waves generated by the sound quality control device of this embodiment.

In Figure 19, eight subjects participated in a ukulele sensory test. Five subjects rated the sustain as better after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 73%. Four subjects rated the sound as better after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 50%. Five subjects rated the neck as having better onset after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 63%. Seven subjects rated the string sliding as easier after irradiation, with a high evaluation rate of 85%. The results of the ukulele sensory test showed that, for all evaluation items, the high evaluation rate was higher when irradiated with electromagnetic waves generated by the sound quality control device of this embodiment.

<Sensory Experiment Review 1>

The following (a) to (c) are comments from three handcrafted guitar experts at ESP Ochanomizu. (d) is a comment from a professional guitarist (Mr. Daisuke Kondo, former guitar technician at Fernandes).

(a) I experimented with Solund&e (the device of this embodiment) with various guitars, including acoustic guitars and electric guitars, in ESP and my own private recording studio.

(b) In conclusion, all members experienced that “the sound quality improved after being irradiated with Sound&e (electromagnetic waves generated by the device of this embodiment).

(c) As a good quality felt by all members, examples can be given: "The sound of the body and neck itself adds to the retro feel, that is, the water retention of the body and neck has reached the optimal dryness after a long period of time. When the low to high strings are struck, the body and neck respond faster, and the so-called bright or sharp sound of the body is experienced."

(d) Using a 1997 original custom acoustic guitar that hadn't been played for about two years. "The reverberation was poor due to the lack of playing time, but that's improved. The sound profile is no longer harsh, the balance is better, and the sound is warmer. The neck sounds like it's vibrating twice as much. Chords are played smoothly without mixing. The strings are very smooth. An electric guitar that hadn't been played for about a year sounds different through the amplifier. Also, the sound is more articulate, and the clarity is improved—changes I've never experienced before. The changes are very surprising, and I don't know what they mean."

<Sensory Experiment Review 2>

The following (e) is the violinist's comment. The electromagnetic field was applied to the front, back, sides, neck, and strings of the violin for 10 minutes each, with a voltage of 100V AC at 50kHz applied to the electrodes. The violin being evaluated was made in 1825 by the Italian Precenta and was made of Brazilian mahogany.

(e) "The sound is no longer harsh; it is very clear and transparent. The sound is no longer harsh; it is very clear and transparent. The sound is slightly hissing but brighter. The volume has increased. (Generally) it is difficult to produce a sound in the mid-range, but (after applying an electromagnetic field) it becomes fuller and easier to produce a sound in the mid-range. The overall balance has been achieved. The rise in the high register has become clearer. The articulation of the sound has improved. The sound is clean and crisp. The bow is held more firmly."

The above sensory tests on an acoustic guitar, electric guitar, double bass, and ukulele yielded the following results: Regarding the tone quality or quality of each instrument, regardless of whether it is sustain, sound, or attack, the highest evaluation rate was obtained when irradiated with the electromagnetic waves generated by the tone quality control device of this embodiment. Furthermore, comments from musicians also showed a high evaluation. These results demonstrate that irradiating with the electromagnetic waves generated by the tone quality control device of this embodiment can improve the tone quality or quality of an instrument. In the sensory tests of the tone quality control device of this embodiment, the parameters of the control device were set to an AC voltage of 100V and a frequency of 50kHz. However, the control parameters that can be used in this embodiment are not limited to these; they can be adjusted between an AC voltage of 0V and 2000V and a frequency of 0 to 1MHz. Furthermore, a DC voltage adjusted between 0V and 2000V can also be applied as a DC offset voltage.

The sound quality control device of this embodiment can be applied not only to the main body of an instrument and its case, but also, for example, to the manufacturing process of a guitar, and more specifically, to the drying processes of varnish, coating, wood-shaving, and drying. By irradiating the instrument under manufacturing with prescribed electromagnetic waves from the electrodes of the sound quality control device of this embodiment during each manufacturing process, the sound quality or quality of the instrument can be improved. For example, the sound quality or quality of the instrument can be improved by including the following steps: By applying an electromagnetic field to the wood during drying, the moisture content inside the wood is minimized, and the wood is then neatly arranged before drying. Before applying varnish, an electromagnetic field is applied to the varnish, minimizing the moisture content in the varnish, and the wood is then neatly arranged before applying the varnish to the guitar. This reduces the effect of the wood-shaving process. By applying an electromagnetic field before the instrument parts or the product itself are dried, all the moisture in the material is minimized, and the material is then neatly arranged before drying. By applying an electromagnetic field after the instrument is completed, all the moisture in the material is minimized, and the material is then neatly arranged before drying. Furthermore, it can be applied not only to finished products but also to parts of musical instruments. By irradiating, for example, guitar strings with prescribed electromagnetic waves from the electrodes of the sound quality control device in this embodiment, the effect of smoothing the strings or reducing the sound when rubbing the strings is achieved.

Most musical instruments use wood, which contains two types of moisture: free water and bound water. Musical instrument wood is primarily air-dried, but its moisture content is around 11-17%. Air-dried wood also contains both free and bound water, with the bound water integrated into the wood structure through hydrogen bonds. The acoustic properties of wood are greatly affected by its internal dryness and moisture content. Both excessive dryness and excessive moisture are undesirable conditions. Therefore, by applying a prescribed electromagnetic field to the musical instrument through the electrodes of the sound quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture present inside the wood is miniaturized and arranged in a beaded pattern along a specific direction. As a result, the free water also binds to each other and arranges itself in a beaded pattern along the same direction. Furthermore, the bound water also arranges itself in a specific direction, thereby stabilizing the shrinkage state of the wood and improving its acoustic properties, such as vibration characteristics, sound wave propagation characteristics, and strength characteristics. In addition, for materials other than wood, such as leather, resin, rubber, and metal, a prescribed electromagnetic field is applied to the musical instrument from the electrodes of the sound quality control device of this embodiment, which affects the moisture inside or on the surface of each material, causing the moisture to be micronized and arranged in a beaded pattern along a specific direction, thereby improving the acoustic performance of the musical instrument.

By applying a prescribed electromagnetic field to the musical instrument from the electrodes of the sound quality control device of this embodiment, excellent acoustic effects are achieved for guitar strings. Guitar strings are divided into smooth strings and wound strings. Smooth strings are mainly used for the relatively thinner 1st, 2nd, and 3rd strings, while wound strings are mainly used for the relatively thicker 4th, 5th, and 6th strings. Smooth strings are made from a single raw material, such as nylon or other chemical fibers, or piano wire as a type of steel wire. Wound strings are made by winding a core wire around a coiled wire. For example, in gut strings used in classical guitars, the core wire is made of chemical fibers such as nylon, and the coiled wire is made of silver-plated copper wire. In addition, in electric guitars or folk guitars, for example, smooth strings use tin-plated piano wire as the core wire of wound strings, and the coiled wire uses a copper alloy, such as bronze. By applying a prescribed electromagnetic field to the musical instrument from the electrodes of the sound quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture present inside or on the surface of these string raw materials is miniaturized and arranged in a beaded pattern along a specific direction, thereby improving the acoustic performance of the strings.

Electric guitars convert the vibrations of the guitar strings into electrical signals through pickups, thus posing a risk of electromagnetic noise. The frequency of sound produced by an electric guitar is approximately 80Hz to 2000Hz, and the upper limit of the frequency range that can be produced by an amplifier is approximately 7kHz. In contrast, the 88-key piano, as an instrument with a wide range, can play frequencies from approximately 27Hz to 4200Hz. It is said that the audible range of the human ear is 20Hz to 20kHz; therefore, the 50kHz electromagnetic field generated by the electrodes of the sound quality control device in this embodiment will not be considered noise by the instrument, nor will it be perceived as noise by the human ear.

[Implementation Method 2]

In Embodiment 2, an example of sports equipment will be described. By irradiating the sports equipment with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, effects such as improving the feel of the shot by controlling the slippage of the string on the racket, and improving the quality of the golf club to increase the flight distance can be achieved. When applying electromagnetic waves to the sports equipment using the quality control device of this embodiment, if electrodes are arranged in the housing or outer cover of the sports equipment, it is easy to apply electromagnetic waves to the desired location of the sports equipment. In addition, by adjusting the direction of the electromagnetic waves applied to the sports equipment from the electrodes according to the position of the electrodes installed in the housing or outer cover of the sports equipment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the sports equipment can be miniaturized, and the miniaturized moisture can be arranged in a beaded pattern. The direction of this arrangement can be controlled to be the desired direction corresponding to the applied electromagnetic waves, thereby controlling the quality of the sports equipment. The method of applying electromagnetic waves to the sports equipment is not limited to installing electrodes in the housing or outer cover of the sports equipment. For example, an electromagnetic field can be applied to the sports equipment from electrodes fixed to the worktable, or electrodes can be directly installed on the sports equipment. Alternatively, for example, two pairs of electrodes can be arranged in intersecting directions to generate an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction in a two-dimensional direction. Or, for example, three pairs of electrodes can be arranged in intersecting directions to generate an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction in a three-dimensional direction. In this case, by applying an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction to the exercise apparatus in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional direction from the electrodes, the moisture inside or on the surface of the exercise apparatus can be miniaturized according to its shape, and the miniaturized moisture can be arranged in a beaded pattern, with the arrangement direction controlled to the desired direction, thereby controlling the quality of the exercise apparatus.

In addition, as sporting goods, it can also be used for surfboards, bodyboards, shallow water surfboards, canoeing, kayaks, yachts, racing boats, boats, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, motorsports, bamboo knives, skateboards, snowboards, unicycles, guns, bows, arrows, billiard cues, driver (golf), irons (golf), putters (golf), golf balls, ski boards, ski poles (skiing), skateboards, inline skateboards, and bats (baseball, cricket). The equipment includes, but is not particularly limited to, various utensils or storage boxes for the sports equipment, such as softballs, gloves (baseballs, crickets, softballs, etc.), balls for ball sports (e.g., baseballs, crickets, softballs, soccer balls, rugby balls, American footballs, basketballs, volleyballs, tennis balls, squash balls, short-handled wallballs, etc.), lacrosse, badminton rackets, shuttlecocks for badminton, tennis rackets, table tennis rackets, table tennis balls, shot puts, discus, javelin, and hammer throws. In addition, the quality of each sports equipment can be improved by irradiating each sports equipment with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment.

Regarding surfboards, bodyboards, and shallow water surfboards, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the board material is affected, thereby improving speed, flow, and maneuverability.

Regarding rowboats and kayaks, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the hull material or surface coating can be affected, thereby improving the quality, such as reducing wave resistance at the bow and maintaining appropriate resistance when going downstream.

Regarding yachts, racing boats, and ships, by utilizing the internal or surface moisture of the coating on the hull material or surface, and by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, it is possible to reduce water resistance, such as wave resistance, frictional resistance, and viscous pressure resistance.

Regarding automobiles, locomotives, airplanes, and motorized vehicles, by irradiating the fuel with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture content in the fuel is reduced, thereby improving fuel efficiency.

Regarding bicycles and unicycles, by using the quality control device of this embodiment to irradiate the fuel with electromagnetic waves, it is particularly effective in removing oil or moisture from the joints or contact parts of various components, thereby reducing the resistance of the chain, gears, pulleys, hubs, etc., or the road resistance.

Regarding bamboo swords (Kendo), by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the bamboo can be affected, thereby improving the quality of the bamboo and increasing its durability, making it less prone to breakage.

Regarding the gun, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the material of the gun itself is affected, as well as the bullet, cartridge case, gunpowder, detonator, etc. that make up the ammunition cartridge, especially the moisture present in each part, and the combustion rate in the chamber is appropriately adjusted, thereby improving the quality, such as increasing accuracy, range, and safety.

Regarding bows, arrows, archery, and crossbows, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the performance of the string or leaf spring is improved, and it also affects the material of the arrow, thereby affecting the moisture present inside or on the surface of each part, thus improving the quality, such as accuracy and range.

Regarding the billiard cue, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture in the raw wood is affected, thereby optimizing the slipperiness of the tip, the state of the tip or cue, the impact transmission characteristics of the wood, etc., thereby improving the force applied to the ball and the quality of spin.

Regarding drivers (golf), irons (golf), and putters (golf), by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the material of the part where the shaft or clubhead strike surface is located is affected, and the moisture state of the clubhead strike surface is optimized. In particular, it affects the moisture present inside or on the surface of each part, influencing the transmission, slippage, and spin of the ball from the clubhead strike surface, increasing the ball's flight distance, and optimizing the spin imparted to the ball.

Regarding golf balls, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture state in the interior of the core or shell, the surface of the shell, pits, etc., also affects the transmission, slippage, and rotation of the force transmitted from the golf club. In addition, due to the relationship between air resistance caused by the moisture state of the pits and the ball's rotation, the ball's flight distance is increased and its directional stability is improved.

Regarding skis and snowboards, by irradiating them with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the material of the skis can be affected to optimize rigidity, elasticity, and the condition of the skiing surface. Furthermore, it affects the wax applied to the skiing surface, particularly reducing moisture present inside or on the surface of each component or the wax, thereby reducing lubrication friction. Regarding ski poles, it affects the material of the ski poles (e.g., aluminum or carbon fiber) to optimize rigidity or elasticity. It also affects the condition of the pole basket or tip, particularly reducing moisture present inside or on the surface of each component, thereby optimizing contact with the snow surface.

Regarding skateboards and double-row wheels, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the liquids such as oil or moisture present between various parts are affected, thereby reducing the rotational resistance of bearings and other mechanical resistances. In addition, the electromagnetic waves also affect the skateboard body or sandpaper, especially the moisture present inside or on the surface of each part, and also affect the rigidity or elasticity of the board body and the friction performance of the sandpaper.

Baseball bats (baseball, cricket, softball, etc.) are made of materials with high rigidity. By striking the ball at its center, vibration nodes are set to mitigate the impact on the grip. By irradiating the bat with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the material of the bat, such as wood or metal, is affected, especially the moisture present inside or on the surface of the bat. This improves the transmission of vibrations within the bat when hitting the ball, and also improves the characteristics of the force applied by the bat to the ball or its spin, thereby increasing hitting efficiency. The sound of the bat after using the quality control device of this embodiment to irradiate electromagnetic waves to improve hitting efficiency is significantly clearer and more transparent compared to before irradiation. This effect is also related to the improvement in sound quality in the case of musical instruments.

The gloves (baseball, cricket, softball, etc.) are made of leather such as cowhide. By using the quality control device of this embodiment to irradiate electromagnetic waves, the moisture present inside or on the surface of the leather is affected, thereby improving the softness, hardness, cushioning, durability and other qualities of the leather.

Regarding balls used in ball sports (e.g., baseball, cricket, softball, lacrosse, soccer, rugby, American football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, squash, short-handled wallball, etc.), baseball hardballs use cork or low-rebound rubber cores; cricket balls use cork cores; softball balls use cork or kapok cores; lacrosse balls use hard rubber balls; soccer, rugby, American football, basketball, and volleyball balls use butyl rubber tubing or latex rubber tubing, etc., with surfaces made of natural leather, synthetic leather, rubber, resin, etc.; tennis balls have felt surfaces; and squash and short-handled wallball balls... The balls contain hollow rubber balls. In this case, if electromagnetic waves are irradiated onto these balls using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture content of the core material raw material will be affected, influencing elasticity and rigidity. It will also affect the material constituting the outer skin, especially the moisture content contained in the interior or surface of each part. This will affect the impact transmission characteristics, friction, and sliding characteristics caused by collisions during contact, thereby improving the characteristics of these balls and thus improving their quality, such as improving the feel of hitting the ball, improving control, and improving spin characteristics.

Regarding badminton and tennis rackets, if electromagnetic waves are irradiated using the quality control device of this embodiment, it will affect the material of the frame or shaft, influencing rigidity, elasticity, and impact transmission characteristics. Consequently, it will affect the strings, especially the moisture present inside or on the surface of the racket or strings. This improves the rebound characteristics, slip characteristics, spin imparting characteristics to the shuttlecock or ball, and durability of the strings, thereby enhancing the quality, such as improving the feel of the hit, increasing the speed of the shot, and improving control.

The shuttlecock used in badminton is made by inserting waterfowl feathers into a cork core. Therefore, if electromagnetic waves are irradiated using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the cork and feathers will be affected, improving the characteristics of the force transmitted from the net to the shuttlecock when hitting the shuttlecock with the racket, as well as the spin characteristics of the shuttlecock, thereby improving the quality, such as improving the feel of the hit, the speed of the hit, and the control.

Regarding table tennis rackets, the surface of a racket made of a single piece of wood, or multiple pieces of wood, or sheets woven from fibers such as carbon fiber or ZL fiber, is covered with synthetic or natural rubber sheets, such as inverted rubber, short pips rubber, and long pips rubber. Therefore, if electromagnetic waves are irradiated through the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the racket's raw materials, namely wood or fiber, and the rubber of the rubber sheet, will be affected. This will adjust the striking force and spin that the rubber imparts to the table tennis ball when hitting it, thereby improving the quality, such as adjusting the hitting speed, improving the hitting feel, and improving control (hitting trajectory, spin, etc.).

Furthermore, regarding the ping-pong ball, it is a hollow ball made of celluloid or plastic. If electromagnetic waves are irradiated using the quality control device of this embodiment, it will affect the moisture inside or on the surface of the ball's raw material, namely celluloid or plastic, and adjust the striking force and spin that the racket rubber imparts to the ping-pong ball when it is hit. As a result, the quality is improved, such as the ball speed is adjusted, the hitting feel is improved, the durability is improved, and the controllability (spin trajectory, spin, etc.) is improved.

Regarding the shot put, shot put (shot put, string, handle), and discus (wooden discus with metal frame) used in track and field, if electromagnetic waves are irradiated through the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface will be affected, which will improve the grip of the thrower's hand, reduce the center of gravity sway, reduce air resistance, and thus increase the throwing distance.

Regarding javelins used in track and field, they consist of a javelin head, a grip, and a shaft. Men's javelins are 2.6m to 2.7m long and weigh 805g to 825g, while women's javelins are 2.2m to 2.3m long and weigh 605g to 625g. The materials include metals such as duralumin and stainless steel, or carbon fiber or graphite fiber. If electromagnetic waves are irradiated using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the javelin shaft material will be affected, adjusting the rotation, vibration characteristics, and vibration damping characteristics around the long axis. In addition, the friction characteristics of the grip will be adjusted, thereby increasing the throwing distance.

Electromagnetic waves can be irradiated onto the stored sports equipment using the quality control device of this embodiment by providing at least one electrode, for example, one or more pairs of electrodes, on the inner surface of the storage box of each sports equipment. The setting for irradiating electromagnetic waves from the electrodes provided on the inner surface of the storage box of each sports equipment using the quality control device of this embodiment is not particularly limited; the voltage applied to the electrodes is AC 100V, the frequency is 50kHz, and the application time is set to 1 hour. For example, if the electromagnetic waves are irradiated using the quality control device of this embodiment for 1 hour before using the sports equipment, and then the irradiation is stopped and the sports equipment is removed from the storage box, the effect on the moisture present inside or on the surface of each sports equipment obtained by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment can be maintained, thus maintaining the effects described above.

Ideally, the power source for the quality control device installed in each sports equipment storage box should be a battery. As mentioned above, it is preferable that the time for irradiating each sports item with electromagnetic waves from the electrodes provided on the inner surface of the storage box is approximately one hour before using each sports item. Therefore, even if the power source is a battery, it is not necessary to have a large battery capacity. Furthermore, if the battery is rechargeable, it can be charged when the quality control device is not irradiating electromagnetic waves. Although the statement "electrodes are provided on the inner surface of each sports equipment storage box" is used here, this is not intended to limit the electrodes to being exposed on the inner surface of the storage box. In this embodiment, as long as the electrodes provided on the storage box can irradiate each sports item with electromagnetic waves, the arrangement of the electrodes can be any position within the storage box. For example, they can also be arranged to be embedded inside the storage box. In addition, the electrodes are not limited to plate electrodes; thin electrodes or sheet electrodes can also be used. Therefore, the electrodes can be arranged in a manner corresponding to the shape of the storage box.

Figure 20 shows an example of applying the quality control device of this embodiment to a baseball bat case. Electrode 13 is mounted on the inner surface of the bat case lid, electrode 14 is mounted on the bottom surface of the bat storage section, and controller 10 is mounted on the inner side of the bat case. Figure 20 shows a power line for supplying power from a commercial power source, but this embodiment is not limited to this; for example, a battery-powered method may also be used. Alternatively, controller 10 may be positioned away from the guitar case. The voltage applied to the electrode that irradiates electromagnetic waves onto the guitar is not particularly limited; for example, it may be set to AC 100V at a frequency of 50kHz.

Figure 20 illustrates an example of a pair of electrodes disposed on the inner surface and bottom surface of a bat box. However, this electrode configuration is an example and is not intended to limit this embodiment. At least one electrode is sufficient; for example, one or more pairs of electrodes can be disposed, and electromagnetic waves can be irradiated onto the bat using the sound quality control device of this embodiment. The bat box in Figure 20 can hold four bats, but this embodiment is not limited to this; the number of bats stored can be, for example, three or fewer, or five or more. The setting for irradiating electromagnetic waves from the electrodes disposed on the inner surface of the bat box using the quality control device of this embodiment is not particularly limited. The voltage applied to the electrodes is AC 100V, the frequency is 50kHz, and the application time is set to one hour. For example, if one hour is spent irradiating the bat with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment before use, and then the irradiation is stopped and the bat is removed from the storage box, the effect on moisture present inside or on the surface of the bat obtained by irradiating it with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment is maintained, thus maintaining the good effect described above. Furthermore, the duration of electromagnetic field application is not necessarily one hour; even about five minutes can be effective.

In the quality control device shown in Figure 20, a thermometer and a hygrometer are built into or externally mounted on the controller 10. The controller 10 controls the current or voltage applied to electrodes 13 and 14 by measuring the temperature and humidity inside the bat box and applying an electromagnetic field suitable for the temperature and humidity inside the bat box to the bats. A display unit is provided on the outer surface of the controller 10 or the bat box to display information from the controller 10. On this display unit, the temperature and humidity detected by the thermometer and hygrometer can be displayed along with the control information. The control information includes control parameters such as power on/off, setting mode, set value, and measured value.

Figure 21 shows an example of applying the quality control device of this embodiment to the case of a billiard paddle. The billiard paddle case is constructed as follows: two generally square boxes, a bottom box and a top box, are connected on one side and secured with fasteners such as fasteners. In this embodiment, a pair of electrodes 13 and 14, and a controller 10 are mounted on the inner top surface of the top box. The arrangement of the electrodes 13 and 14 and the controller 10 is not particularly limited; for example, one electrode 13 can be placed on the inner top surface of the top box and the other electrode 14 on the inner bottom surface, or both electrodes 13 and 14 can be placed on the inner bottom surface of the bottom box. Furthermore, the electrodes 13 and 14 do not need to be exposed; for example, they can be covered with decorative cloth or cushioning material to prevent direct contact between the electrodes and the billiard paddle, thereby protecting the rubber of the paddle. For example, a commercial power supply can be used; alternatively, a rechargeable battery can be used for portability, but this is not particularly limited. The voltage applied to the electrodes is, for example, set to AC 100V, 50kH.

The billiard box in Figure 21 contains two billiard paddles and two ping-pong balls. With the bottom and top boxes overlapped and secured with fasteners, voltage is applied to electrodes 13 and 14, applying an electromagnetic field to the paddles and ping-pong balls. The electric field application conditions are set, for example, AC 100V, frequency 50kHz, and application time of 1 hour. For example, if one hour is spent irradiating the billiard paddle with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment before using the paddle, then after stopping the electromagnetic wave irradiation and removing the paddle from the storage box, the effect on moisture present inside or on the surface of the paddle obtained by irradiating with electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment is maintained, thus maintaining the good effect described above. Furthermore, the application time of the electromagnetic field is not specifically 1 hour; even about 5 minutes is effective.

Sporting goods contain various materials, but moisture exists within or on the surface of any of these materials. By irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture present within or on the surface of the sporting goods' materials can be micronized and arranged in a beaded pattern along a specific direction, thereby improving the quality of the sporting goods. Regarding metallic materials, water molecules also exist in states such as hydrogen bonds; therefore, by irradiating electromagnetic waves using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture present within or on the surface of the metal can be affected, thus improving the quality of sporting goods made of metallic materials. The application conditions of the electromagnetic waves are appropriately set according to the type of sporting goods, their usage state, and usage conditions. In the above embodiment, AC voltage, frequency, and application time are exemplified, but this embodiment is not limited to these and can be appropriately adjusted within the range of the electromagnetic field application conditions of this embodiment.

[Implementation Method 3]

Referring to Figure 22, an example of quality control of strawberries in the distribution of strawberries using the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 3 will be described. In this embodiment, an example of the quality control device 1 being installed at a strawberry distribution center will be described, but it is not particularly limited. Strawberries produced by producers are inspected and graded at the distribution center, and then distributed to supermarkets and other stores through a distribution organization. Consumers who purchase strawberries sold in these stores consume the strawberries at home. In this strawberry distribution process, at the distribution center where strawberries produced by producers (strawberry farmers) are concentrated, the inspected and graded strawberries, in their packaged state, are subjected to an electromagnetic field applied to the electrodes of the quality control device 1 of this embodiment to control the quality of the strawberries to the state required according to the order. The sales information of strawberries in each store, strawberry production information (variety, production capacity, production status, production plan) of multiple strawberry producers, the collection status of strawberries in each distribution center, and the operation status of the distribution organization can be comprehensively managed through the management server 40. Therefore, after the management server has grasped the inventory status or sales information of strawberries in each store, it summarizes the order information and sends the order information to the quality management device 1 of the collection center, the producer, and the distribution agency via the communication network 43.

In this embodiment, strawberries are used as an example of the substance to which the electromagnetic field is applied by the quality control device 1, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, it can be widely applied to fruits such as grapes, melons, watermelons, mangoes, peaches, apples, pears, bananas, oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, blueberries, cranberries, and cherries. In addition, the quality control device 1 of this embodiment can be widely applied not only to fruits, but also to vegetables, grains, beans, mushrooms, etc.

In this embodiment, as the quality control device 1, the same device as in FIG1 is used to control the AC voltage and frequency applied to at least one electrode, such as a pair or more pairs of electrodes 13, 14, which generate an electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field or electromagnetic wave on the strawberry, to control the quality of the strawberry, including at least one of the strawberry's taste, aroma, texture, freshness, ripeness or appearance, to a specified state.

As for the shape of the electrode, a flat plate electrode can be used, but as mentioned above, the shape of the electrode in this embodiment is not limited to a flat plate electrode, and various types of electrodes can be used. Since various types of electrodes can be used, the arrangement or size of the electrodes can also be freely designed. For example, a pair of electrodes 13 and 14 can be arranged at both ends of the conveyor belt used in the collection yard in the width direction, or electrodes can be arranged on the strawberry storage rack, or sheet-like electrodes with a large area can be provided on the wall of the warehouse so that electromagnetic waves can be concentrated on the boxed strawberries.

By adjusting the voltage application time of electrodes 13 and 14 when applying electromagnetic waves to strawberries using the quality control device 1 of this embodiment, for example, as shown in the curves of Figures 22(A) to (D), it is possible to control various quality indicators, such as aging index (AGEs Score), hardness (N), sugar content (Brix [%)), and acidity (acidity [ml]), after a specified time, such as 24 days, to the characteristics shown by curves L1 to L4. At this time, the voltage applied to the electrodes is set to AC 100V and frequency 50kHz. Here, data of the Pearl White variety of strawberry after 24 days is shown as an example, but in this embodiment, data measured from 1 day to n days after electromagnetic wave irradiation (n is a natural number) for various strawberry varieties (hereinafter referred to as "electromagnetic wave application information") are stored in the storage unit 37. As electromagnetic wave application information, it may further include many data obtained by changing parameters such as temperature conditions, AC voltage values applied to electrodes 13 and 14, and frequency. Furthermore, in cases where abnormal data is generated, such as outliers in curves L1-L4, this data is not used; instead, countermeasures such as re-measurement are taken. Additionally, information on electromagnetic wave application stored in other quality control devices 1a-1n can be aggregated by the management server 40 and stored in the database 43 for use in controlling the electromagnetic wave application to strawberries in each quality control device. When multiple data points under identical conditions are obtained, data analysis is performed after statistical processing such as averaging. However, in this case, the quality characteristic data of strawberries may vary depending on factors such as season or temperature conditions; therefore, the data measurement conditions must be carefully considered during statistical processing.

Figure 22 shows an example of the input screen of the PC31 of the quality control device 1 according to this embodiment on the right. At the target distribution center, when an order for "48 packs of Pearl White strawberries to be delivered on March 25th" is received from a supermarket on, for example, March 1st, the order information—variety, harvest date, delivery date, and quantity—is entered into the control unit 36 via the input screen of the PC31. For example, the variety is "Pearl White," the delivery date is "March 25th," and the quantity is "48 packs." Alternatively, this order information can also be directly entered into the control unit 36 via the communication network 45. The variety, delivery date, and quantity in the order information must be entered. Information related to the inventory or production plans of each producer (hereinafter referred to as "inventory information") is aggregated by the management server 40 and stored in the database 43. For example, as shown in Figure 22, if no harvest date is specified, strawberries that meet the delivery date are automatically selected using the inventory information.

In addition to variety, harvest date, delivery date, and quantity, the ordering information also includes information on AGEs, hardness, sugar content, and acidity, each with a value of "high," "medium," or "low." For example, Figure 22 shows an example where AGEs are set to "medium," hardness to "low," sugar content to "medium," and acidity to "high." Here, an example with a level 3 setting is provided, but this embodiment is not limited to this; for example, it could also be level 2, or even level 4 or higher. Furthermore, in addition to "high," "medium," and "low," a "not selected" option can be added. When "not selected" is set, the relevant parameter is not considered during calculation.

After setting the variety, harvest date, delivery date, quantity, AGEs, firmness, sugar content, and acidity, the control unit 36 uses the inventory information and electromagnetic field application information stored in the database 43 to operate on the set strawberry inventory and the conditions for applying the electromagnetic field to the strawberries. Specifically, for example, as shown in FIG22, a sufficient quantity of Pearl White strawberries is selected from the inventory, and the electromagnetic field application time that results in "medium" AGEs, "low" firmness, "medium" sugar content, and "high" acidity is calculated. For example, under the condition of 24 days after applying the electric field, the result is a result of 40 seconds for the electric field application time. In the collection yard, after applying the electromagnetic field to the selected Pearl White strawberry inventory from the electrodes 13 and 14 of the quality control device 1 of this embodiment for the calculated 40 seconds, a distribution plan is formulated so that the strawberries can be delivered to the ordering supermarkets on the delivery date of March 25, 24 days later. Furthermore, the condition of 24 days after applying the electric field is only one example, and the allowable number of days is determined based on the strawberry inventory information, distribution conditions, storage conditions, etc. As a preservation condition, it has been confirmed that the shelf life of strawberries is greatly extended after applying electromagnetic waves using the quality control device 1 of this embodiment. For example, depending on the preservation conditions, strawberries can be preserved for more than 30 days.

When calculating the electromagnetic field application time using the control unit 36, fuzzy inference can be used, for example, but it is not particularly limited. Membership functions of "low," "medium," and "high" are defined for AGEs, hardness, sugar content, and acidity as subsequent components of the fuzzy rules. The electromagnetic field application time is set to "short (20 seconds)," "standard (40 seconds)," "long (80 seconds)," and "very long (240 seconds)." The management server 40 automatically generates fuzzy rules (IF-THEN rules) based on the electromagnetic field application information stored in the database 43. Additionally, weighting can be applied to the conditions of AGEs, hardness, sugar content, and acidity.

Furthermore, machine learning can be used when calculating the electromagnetic field application time using the control unit 36. In the management server 40, based on information stored in the database 43 and information collected by various quality control devices, a deep learning model is trained by taking order information as input and the corresponding inventory and electromagnetic field application conditions (application time, applied voltage value, frequency, etc.) as outputs. The control unit 36 then uses the learning model trained by the management server 40 to calculate the corresponding inventory and electromagnetic field application conditions based on the order information.

The object detection unit 32 can acquire image signals of the target strawberry to which the electromagnetic field is applied, and detect the type, condition, and size of the strawberry through image recognition. Therefore, it can apply an electromagnetic field that matches the target strawberry. In addition, in order to obtain electromagnetic field application information, it is necessary to track the strawberry to which the electromagnetic field is applied and manage the data along with the electromagnetic field application conditions. The management of electromagnetic field application information and the traceability during circulation can be improved by attaching tracking information such as barcodes to the strawberry packaging. In order to obtain electromagnetic field application information, AGEs, firmness, sugar content, and acidity are measured, and this data is stored in the storage unit 37 along with the electromagnetic field application conditions. Furthermore, the electromagnetic field application information is summarized by the management server 40 and stored in the database 43, so that it can be managed by each quality control device 1, 1a to 1n.

[Implementation Method 4]

Next, referring to Figures 23 and 24, the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 4, as an example, will be described to control the quality of tobacco leaves, such as promoting, stopping, or delaying maturity, or improving or maintaining freshness. The same reference numerals will be used for configurations identical to those in Embodiments 1 to 3, and their descriptions will be omitted. Furthermore, tobacco leaves are an example, and this embodiment is not limited to this; it can also be applied to other plants, herbs, fruits, vegetables, legumes, fungi, etc. In this embodiment, in the relationship between sugar concentration and cell concentration, an increase in maturity means a decrease in sugar concentration and an increase in cell concentration; an increase in maturity is the opposite of an increase in freshness.

Figure 23 is an explanatory diagram of the quality control process of tobacco leaves using the quality control device 1 of this embodiment, showing an example of the setting screen of the human-computer interface 31 such as a smartphone or tablet terminal. Figure 23(A) is the input screen for the variety name, harvest date, and delivery date of the target substance. For example, if the variety name "tobacco leaf", harvest date "May 1st", and delivery date "May 17th" are entered, and the "OK" button is pressed if the input is correct, then the "OK" button is pressed. Next, in the input screens of setting 1, setting 2, and manual setting shown in Figure 23(B), for example, setting 1 "cell concentration" is entered as "13g-dry cell/L", and if the input is correct, then the "OK" button is pressed. In addition, setting 2 is not input, and manual setting is set to "off", but in the case of manual setting, after switching manual setting to "on", the inhibition and promotion levels are manually set. As input items for Settings 1 and Settings 2, the case of specifying cell concentration is illustrated here, but this embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the following can also be specified: specifying the value of sugar concentration, sugar concentration decreasing to the final concentration, cell concentration increasing to the final concentration, increasing the degree of inhibition of metabolic rate, increasing the degree of promotion of metabolic rate, etc.

The setting information input in Figures 23(A) and 23(B) is input to the control unit 36 of the quality control device 1. When the setting information is input, the control unit 36 calculates the conditions of the electromagnetic field applied to the target material based on the control information stored in the storage unit 37, and displays the information of the electromagnetic field applied to the material from the electrode on the human-machine interface 31 as shown in Figure 23(C). In Figure 23(C), for example, the applied electric field is displayed as "30V/m", the application time as "always", and the deviation as "suppressed". When controlling the quality control device 1 under these conditions, the send button is operated. When the send button is operated, the control unit 36 issues a control command to the current and voltage control unit 33 to apply the electromagnetic field according to the calculated conditions from the electrodes 13 and 14 to the material, and the current and voltage application unit 11 is controlled by the current and voltage control unit 33 based on the control command.

In the example shown in Figure 23, an example of inputting order information from the human-machine interface 31 is illustrated, but the orderer can also input order information from PCs 31a to 31n. Alternatively, the order information from each orderer can be aggregated in the management server 40 and then sent to the control unit 36 of the corresponding quality control device 1.

The calculation of electromagnetic field application conditions in the control unit 36 utilizes electromagnetic field application information stored in the storage unit 37. Figures 24A to 24E illustrate several data points from various electromagnetic field application information. These data represent data obtained by culturing tobacco BY-2 (Nicotiana tabacum cv. Bright Yellow NO.2) cells into tobacco leaves. Regarding the culture method, after approximately two weeks of subculturing using sucrose or similar stabilizers, the cells were washed, and then formally cultured using glucose or similar media. The culture conditions were 27°C in the dark, with the cells rotating at 130 rpm. Figures 24A to 24E show relevant data from the formal culture period. As the number of days increased, samples were taken from the culture medium to detect sugar concentration and cell concentration. Sugar concentration was calculated based on the absorbance of infrared spectrophotometry, and cell concentration was calculated based on turbidity at 600 nm, but these are not specifically limited. In the formal culture, glucose and cell concentrations were measured in those cells subjected to an electromagnetic field under specified electric field conditions and those not subjected to an electromagnetic field.

Figure 24A is an explanatory diagram of the control data for sugar concentration and cell concentration in the quality control device 1. Figure 24A is a graph showing the curves when a 30V/m electric field is applied to the tobacco leaves from electrodes 13 and 14 throughout the culture period. It is a graph obtained by approximating the measured data of sugar concentration and cell concentration using the Boltzmann function. Sugar concentration H (straight line) is the curve of sugar concentration when an electric field is applied, sugar concentration C (single-dotted line) is the curve of sugar concentration when no electric field is applied (control group), cell concentration H (dashed line) is the curve of cell concentration when an electric field is applied, and cell concentration C (double-dotted line) is the curve of cell concentration when no electric field is applied (control group). Figure 24A shows that when a 30V/m electric field is applied to the tobacco leaves from electrodes 13 and 14 of the quality control device of this embodiment, compared with the case where no electric field is applied, the decrease in sugar concentration and the increase in cell concentration can be slowed down. In Figure 24A, the cell concentration is 13 g-dry cell/L when the culture period is 16 days under the condition of applying an electric field of 30 V/m. Therefore, regarding the electromagnetic field application conditions under the order information in Figure 23, the control unit 36 calculates the applied electric field "30 V/m" and the application time "always".

Figure 24B is an explanatory diagram of the control data for growth promotion and inhibition at each exposure time (electromagnetic field application time) in the quality control device 1. The inhibition and promotion of tobacco leaf maturity can be controlled according to the electromagnetic field application conditions when an electromagnetic field is applied to the tobacco leaves from electrodes 13 and 14 of the quality control device 1 in this embodiment. When the culture period corresponding to the inflection point of the sugar concentration curve when electromagnetic waves are applied is set as t _{_0,s,H} , the culture period corresponding to the inflection point of the sugar concentration curve when no electromagnetic waves are applied is set as t _{_0,s,C}, the culture period corresponding to the inflection point of the cell concentration curve when electromagnetic waves are applied is set as t _{_0,x,H}, and the culture period corresponding to the inflection point of the cell concentration curve when no electromagnetic waves are applied is set as t _{_0,x,C}, the vertical axis of Figure 24B is the ratio of the inflection points of the sugar concentration curves with and without applied voltage, t _{_0,s,H} /t_{0 _,s,C}, and the horizontal axis is the ratio of the inflection points of the cell concentration curves with and without applied voltage, t _{_0,x,H/t_0,x,C} . This means that the further the curve moves to the upper right, the higher the inhibition; and the further the curve moves to the lower left, the higher the promotion. The curves include: cases where the electric field level is set to 15V/m, 30V/m, 50V/m, 70V/m, 300V/m, and 700V/m throughout the entire cultivation period; cases where the 30V/m electric field is applied for 1 min, 1 h, and 1 day; and cases where the 700V/m electric field is applied for 1 min, 1 h, and 1 day. Furthermore, the cultivation period is not specifically limited; for example, it can be set to 25 days, with the specified electric field applied immediately after the start of cultivation for each electric field application period. This data can be used to determine the electromagnetic wave application conditions used to adjust the degree of inhibition or promotion of tobacco maturity.

Figure 24C is an illustration of the control data for growth promotion and inhibition relative to the culture period in quality control device 1. In Figure 24C, the horizontal axis represents the exposure period (electric field application time, in minutes) when an electric field of 30 V/m is applied to electrodes 13 and 14. The culture period is not specifically limited, for example, it can be set to 25 days, with the specified electric field applied immediately after the start of culture for each electric field application period. The vertical axis represents tO _,H / tO _,C . The curves with white circles represent the ratio of the inflection points of the sugar concentration curve when an electric field of 30 V/m is applied, the curves with black circles represent the ratio of the inflection points of the cell concentration curve when an electric field of 30 V/m is applied, the curves with white squares represent the ratio of the inflection points of the sugar concentration curve when an electric field of 700 V/m is applied, and the curves with black squares represent the ratio of the inflection points of the cell concentration curve when an electric field of 700 V/m is applied. As can be seen from the curves in Figure 24C, when an electric field of 30 V/m is applied, both sugar concentration characteristics and cell concentration characteristics increase with the increase of the electric field application period. In contrast, when an electric field of 700 V/m is applied, both sugar concentration and cell concentration characteristics decrease with increasing electric field application time, the opposite of the case at 30 V/m. These sugar and cell concentration characteristics can be used to determine the electromagnetic wave application conditions for adjusting the degree of inhibition or promotion of tobacco maturity.

Figure 24D is an explanatory diagram of the control data for the relative consumption rate in the quality control device 1 of this embodiment. The relative consumption rate is obtained by dividing the consumption rate by the cell concentration (Cx), and is the sugar consumption rate per cell (g-dry cell). The consumption rate is obtained by differentiating the sugar concentration Cs from the culture period t, and is expressed as dCs/dt. Therefore, the relative consumption rate is expressed as (dCs/dt)/Cs. The solid line H in Figure 24D is a graph of the relative consumption rate when an electric field of 30V/m is applied to the tobacco leaf from electrodes 13 and 14 throughout the culture period, and the dashed line C is a graph of the case without an electric field. Comparing the solid line H and the dashed line C, it can be seen that the curve characteristics of the two curves are the same. Therefore, even when an electric field is applied, the sugar metabolism behavior does not change. On the other hand, when an electric field is applied, the culture period is delayed. Therefore, by applying an electric field, the metabolic rate of the tobacco leaf can be slowed down. Utilizing the characteristics of Figure 24D, since glucose metabolism is unaffected by applied electromagnetic waves, it can be controlled using common data. Furthermore, Figure 24D is an example with a 25-day culture period, but it is not particularly limiting.

Figure 24E is an explanatory diagram of the control data for deviation suppression in the quality control device 1 of this embodiment. Although Figure 23(C) includes the control indication of deviation “suppression,” the relevant deviation data is obtained from the curves in Figure 24E. Figure 24E shows the ratio of the standard deviations of sugar concentration or cell concentration when an electric field is applied to many tobacco leaves throughout the entire culture period (25 days). In Figure 24E, SD _max,H is the standard deviation of sugar concentration or cell concentration when a voltage of 30 V/m is applied, SD _max,C is the standard deviation of sugar concentration or cell concentration when no voltage is applied, the vertical axis is the value of SD _max,H / SD _max,C , and the horizontal axis is the electric field strength applied to electrodes 13 and 14. As can be seen from Figure 24E, in all curves except for the sugar concentration data when an electric field of 700 V/m is applied, the deviation is suppressed regardless of the electric field strength.

[Implementation Method 5]

Regarding the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 5 of the present invention, the results of a sensory test conducted by applying an electromagnetic field to coffee beans are shown. It is known that coffee beans deteriorate over time during roasting, and the aroma of ground coffee beans disappears over time. The following two experiments demonstrate that the quality control device 1 of this embodiment can improve the quality of coffee and increase its freshness (become fresher). In this sensory test, the results obtained by Mr. Ryota Nakagawa (IMA Cafe), a senior barista certified by the Specialty Coffee Association of Japan (SCAJ) as a coffee maker, are presented.

<Experiment 1: Sensory evaluation of coffee beans after 6 days of grinding>

Using the quality control device of this embodiment, coffee beans that have been roasted and ground for 6 days are subjected to an electromagnetic field for 1 hour. The coffee beans treated with this method are then tasted and compared with those without the electromagnetic field applied. To prevent deviations caused by coffee extraction, coffee is extracted using a machine that allows for the same brewing method each time, such as the water pouring method, water pouring position, and water volume.

<Evaluator's comments on the control group (those without electromagnetic field applied) in Experiment 1>

"It feels like it has lost its fragrance."

"It tastes good, but it feels like something's missing."

<Evaluator's comments on the subjects subjected to the electromagnetic field in Experiment 1>

"The aroma alone makes a difference."

"The amount of aroma information is significantly different."

"Whether it's the taste, the flavor, or the depth of flavor, it's packed with information."

"The satisfying texture and coffee flavor make it taste wonderful."

"I've never heard of a product that can retain the flavor of coffee for a long time after being turned into coffee powder, which surprises me."

"Actually, when I tasted and compared them myself, I found a significant difference, which truly surprised me."

As can be seen from the results of Experiment 1, the quality control device 1 of this embodiment can control the quality of coffee beans by applying an electromagnetic field to coffee beans that have been ground for a certain period of time, thereby improving their freshness (making them fresher).

<Experiment 2: Sensory evaluation of coffee beans after 1 year of roasting>

Coffee beans that have been roasted for more than one year are ground. An electromagnetic field is applied to the ground beans for one hour using the quality control device of this embodiment. The treated coffee beans are then tasted and compared with those not treated with the electromagnetic field. To prevent deviations caused by coffee extraction, a machine that allows for the same brewing method each time, such as water pouring method, water pouring position, and water volume, is used for extraction. Alternatively, an electromagnetic field can be applied before grinding the coffee beans.

<Evaluator's comments on the control group (those not subjected to electromagnetic field) in Experiment 2>

"The odor is strong, and the coffee flavor is weak."

"(Regarding the taste) It has become so stale and has a strong, unpleasant odor that it's hard to eat; it feels like it has lost its aroma."

<Evaluator's comments on the subjects subjected to the electromagnetic field in Experiment 2>

"The aroma alone is surprising. The deteriorated smell has been noticeably mitigated."

"You can feel the original aroma of the coffee."

"The fact that even coffee beans that have been aged for a year show differences (caused by the application of electromagnetic fields) is surprising."

"What surprised me most was that it greatly alleviated the stale smell in the fragrance."

The results of Experiment 2 show that the quality control device 1 of this embodiment can control the quality of coffee beans by applying an electromagnetic field to coffee beans that have been roasted for a certain period of time, thereby improving their freshness (making them fresher).

Coffee contains over 800 aroma components, of which approximately 60 significantly influence flavor. When coffee beans are ground, an average of one bean is reduced to about 500 particles. Furthermore, due to the porous nature of coffee beans, the surface area of the ground beans increases. When an electromagnetic field is applied to the coffee beans using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside or on the surface of the beans is refined and arranged in a beaded pattern. During coffee extraction, this refined moisture acts as a carrier, drawing out many aroma components from within the coffee bean. Therefore, to extract more aroma components from the coffee bean, the quality of the coffee beans can be controlled by applying electromagnetic waves, thereby improving freshness.

[Implementation Method 6]

Regarding the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 6 of the present invention, the results of a sensory test conducted by applying an electromagnetic field to aged rice are shown. In this embodiment, aged rice refers to rice that has been harvested for more than one year, including, for example, aged rice that has been harvested for one year, two-year-old rice, and three-year-old rice that has been harvested for another year. It is said that aged rice emits a deteriorated odor like stale grains after cooking, and it is known that the fat contained in the bran or the surface of the rice will age and produce an unpleasant smell. Regarding aged rice, a sensory test was conducted while soaking it for one hour before cooking, that is, comparing rice to which an electromagnetic field was applied for one hour with rice that was not. Aged rice cooked under the same cooking conditions, except whether an electromagnetic field was applied during soaking, was tasted and compared. The results showed that by applying an electromagnetic field to aged rice using the quality control device of this embodiment, the deteriorated odor was reduced and the hardness or dryness was improved. Thus, the quality control device 1 of this embodiment can control the quality of aged rice by applying an electromagnetic field during soaking, thereby improving its freshness.

By applying an electromagnetic field to aged rice during the soaking process before cooking using the quality control device of this embodiment, the moisture inside the rice is micronized and arranged in a beaded pattern, thereby evenly distributing the moisture throughout the rice and cooking it to a fuller consistency. Furthermore, it has the effect of removing odor components produced by aged fats when the micronized moisture in the rice bran, on the rice surface, or near the surface turns into water vapor.

[Implementation Method 7]

Referring to Figures 25-27, an example of applying the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 7 of the present invention to the thawing of frozen food will be described. Figure 25 is a perspective view of the food thawing device. The food thawing device has an electrode 13 on its bottom surface and another electrode 14 on its side surface.

Figure 26 is a comparison example of applying an electromagnetic field using the food thawing device of this embodiment when thawing tuna chunks at room temperature, versus normal thawing without applying an electromagnetic field.

The right-hand photograph in Figure 27 shows the application of an electromagnetic field using the food thawing apparatus of this embodiment, while the left-hand photograph shows a comparative example. In the comparative example, the tuna is dark in color and the flesh is not firm. In contrast, when an electromagnetic field is applied using the food thawing apparatus of this embodiment, the tuna retains its beautiful red color, the flesh is firm, and it maintains its freshness.

[Implementation Method 8]

Referring to Figures 28 and 29, an application example of the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 8 of the present invention applied to a handcart will be described. Figure 28 is a perspective view of the application example of the quality control device 1 installed on a handcart. Figure 29 shows the results of comparing the application of electromagnetic waves for 1 hour using the quality control device 1 of this embodiment with a comparative example (control group).

[Implementation Method 9]

Referring to Figure 30, an application example of the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 9 of the present invention in cherry blossom preservation will be described. Figure 30 is a photograph of peony cherry blossoms that bloom at the end of March being stored in a refrigerator at 0°C for three and a half months. It can be seen that, as a result of applying an electromagnetic field using the quality control device 1 of this embodiment, the cherry blossoms maintained their freshness while still in bloom, even after three and a half months.

[Implementation Method 10]

Referring to Figure 31, an example of applying the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 10 of the present invention to perilla cultivation will be described. The following experiment was conducted: tap water was poured into a container made by cutting off the top of an empty plastic bottle, and perilla was hydroponically cultivated. In Figure 31, the growth rate and water turbidity of perilla of the same size were observed after two months of cultivation at room temperature. Figure 31A is a photograph showing the growth of perilla roots after two months. Figure 31B is a photograph showing the perilla cultivation state. Figure 31C is a photograph showing the turbidity of the water in the container after two months of perilla cultivation. In each photograph, the left side shows the case where an electromagnetic field was applied using the quality control device of this embodiment, and the right side shows the case where no electromagnetic field was applied for comparison. The electromagnetic field was applied under the following conditions: AC 100V and frequency 50kHz were set for a pair of electrodes, and the container was always clamped with the pair of electrodes during the perilla cultivation period, and the electromagnetic field was always applied.

As shown in Figure 31A, the development of perilla roots is better when an electromagnetic field is applied using the quality control device of this embodiment compared to the comparative example. In Figure 31B, it can be seen that the development of perilla leaves is also better when an electromagnetic field is applied using the quality control device of this embodiment compared to the comparative example. As shown in Figure 31C, regarding the turbidity of the water after cultivation, in the comparative example, the water was black and turbid. In contrast, when an electromagnetic field is applied using the quality control device of this embodiment, the turbidity of the water is suppressed, and the water transparency is higher. Furthermore, it can be seen that when an electromagnetic field is applied using the quality control device of this embodiment, the viscosity of the water is also suppressed compared to the comparative example. From the above experimental results, it can be seen that when an electromagnetic field is applied using the quality control device of this embodiment, it has the effect of promoting the development of perilla roots and leaves, and suppressing water turbidity or viscosity. In addition, this embodiment is not limited to the cultivation of perilla, and can also be applied to the cultivation of other plants, achieving the same effect as this experimental example in promoting plant development and suppressing water turbidity or viscosity. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the liquid is not limited to water. Since it can suppress the turbidity or viscousness of liquids other than water, by applying it to, for example, tap water pipes, fireproof water tanks, water storage tanks, various water tanks, pipelines, etc., the liquid state in each device can be maintained in a clean state, such as a state without turbidity or viscousness, and the effort of cleaning and other maintenance can be saved.

[Implementation Method 11]

As described above, by applying an electromagnetic field to a substance using the quality control device 1 of the embodiment, it is possible to act on the moisture present inside or on the surface of the substance, thereby preventing, inhibiting or controlling moisture deterioration, turbidity, color turbidity, algae growth, slipperiness, rusting, or mold growth. This effect can be used for applications such as rust prevention, mildew prevention, and corrosion prevention of tap water pipes, fireproof water tanks, water storage tanks, and various water tanks; rust prevention of pipelines (e.g., oil pipelines); rust prevention of storage materials (e.g., metal products such as molds) during material storage; mildew prevention, rust prevention, corrosion prevention, algae prevention of all materials such as steel, wood, furniture, fibers, cloth, and leather; and crack prevention of artworks or paintings.

[Experimental Example 1] The effect of preventing water in vases from becoming sticky and slippery

By comparing the state, viscosity, turbidity, and dirtiness of the water in vases with and without an electromagnetic field applied using the quality control device of this embodiment, the effectiveness of the quality control device of this embodiment is confirmed. As can be seen from Embodiment 10, this effect is also observed in tap water pipes, fireproof water tanks, water storage tanks, and various other water tanks.

[Example 2] Rust prevention effect of iron plates

Referring to Figure 32, an experimental example of rust prevention will be described using the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 11 of the present invention. Figure 32 is an explanatory diagram of the rust prevention experiment of Embodiment 11. The iron plates used in the experiment are all magnetic iron plates with a width of 100 mm, a length of 200 mm, and a thickness of 1 mm. Figure 32A shows the state of the iron plates after being soaked in brine for about 30 mm for 24 hours while an electromagnetic field is applied by the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 11 of the present invention. The strength of the electromagnetic field is not particularly limited as long as it is within the range described above. In Figure 32A, an AC voltage of 50 kHz and 100 V is applied between a pair of electrodes, and the iron plates are placed between these electrodes. Figure 32B shows the state of the iron plates of the same specifications as those in Figure 32A after being soaked in brine for about 30 mm for 24 hours. Figure 32B is a comparative example where no electromagnetic field is applied. Figure 32C shows the iron plates of Figure 31A after being removed from the brine for 7 days. Figure 32D is a comparative example, showing the iron plate from Figure 32B after it has been removed from the brine for 7 days.

It is evident that the rusting of the iron plate in Figure 32A is suppressed compared to that in Figure 32B. Similarly, it is evident that the rusting of the iron plate in Figure 32C is suppressed compared to that in Figure 32D. This experiment demonstrates that the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 11 of the present invention can be used for rust prevention. The rust prevention effect of the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 11 of the present invention can be applied to rust prevention in water pipes, pipelines (oil pipelines, etc.), storage materials during material storage (e.g., metal products such as molds), and steel.

[Implementation Method 12]

Referring to FIGS. 33 to 41, the quality control device 1 of Embodiment 12 of the present invention will be described. FIG. 33 shows an example of electrodes 13A and 14A being installed in an existing refrigerator, FIG. 34 shows an example of electrodes 13B and 14B being installed in an existing container, and FIG. 35 shows an example of electrodes 13C and 14C being installed in an existing fryer. The same reference numerals are used for configurations identical to those in FIGS. 1 to 24, and their descriptions are omitted. In the quality control device of this embodiment, a specific configuration of electrodes 13 and 14 is illustrated, and the shapes of electrodes 13 and 14 are the same as in Embodiments 1 to 6. By adjusting the configuration of the electrodes, the direction of the electromagnetic waves applied to the substance from the electrodes can be adjusted, thereby miniaturizing the moisture inside or on the surface of the substance and arranging the miniaturized moisture in a beaded pattern. The direction of this arrangement is controlled to a desired direction corresponding to the applied electromagnetic waves, thereby controlling the quality of the substance. Alternatively, for example, two pairs of electrodes can be arranged in intersecting directions to generate an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction in a two-dimensional direction. Or, for example, three pairs of electrodes can be arranged in intersecting directions to generate an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction in a three-dimensional direction. In this case, by applying an electromagnetic field of arbitrary intensity and direction to the material from the electrodes in a two-dimensional or three-dimensional direction, the moisture inside or on the surface of the material can be miniaturized according to its shape, and the miniaturized moisture can be arranged in a beaded pattern. This arrangement can be controlled in the desired direction, thereby controlling the quality of the material.

In Figure 33, electrodes 13A and 14A are provided in an existing refrigerator. The electrodes 13A and 14A, which are disposed in the refrigerator housing 50A, comprise plate-like components with a generally L-shaped cross-section made of conductive materials (e.g., copper, iron, stainless steel, aluminum, etc.). Multiple holes (e.g., hexagonal or other polygonal or circular holes) are provided in the base plate, but are not particularly limited thereto. The two electrodes 13A and 14A are connected by a connector 41. The connector 41 is, for example, a generally rectangular thin plate containing an insulating material such as polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g., Teflon (registered trademark)) or a fluoropolymer resin. Furthermore, the refrigerator housing 50A includes various types of refrigerators, such as household refrigerators or large commercial refrigerators.

The shape of the electrodes is not limited to a general L-shape; for example, they can be flat or thin-film. In this case, each electrode 13A, 14A can be positioned opposite to the inner wall of the refrigerator, which serves as the casing 50A. Alternatively, each electrode 13A, 14A can be positioned opposite to the top surface, floor surface, or shelf of the refrigerator. Alternatively, each electrode 13A, 14A can be positioned opposite to the door side and the inner side. Furthermore, the number of electrodes need to be at least one; for example, it can be two, four, or six.

If an electromagnetic field is applied to the food inside the refrigerator from electrodes 13A and 14A located in the refrigerator casing 50A, water particles, such as free water contained in the food, will form a beaded arrangement by pulling each other. Water molecules arranged in this regular manner remain within the substance and do not combine with other components, thus keeping the food fresh and moist.

In Figure 34, electrodes 13B and 14B are installed in an existing container. The electrodes installed in the container, which serves as the shell 50B, comprise conductive plate-like components (e.g., copper, iron, stainless steel, aluminum, etc.) with a generally L-shaped or U-shaped cross-section. Multiple holes (e.g., hexagonal or circular holes) are provided in the bottom plate, but this is not particularly limited. The two electrodes 13B and 14B are connected as needed via a connector 41B. The connector 41B is, for example, a generally rectangular thin plate containing an insulating material such as polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g., Teflon (registered trademark)) or a fluoropolymer resin. Furthermore, while Figure 34 illustrates a relatively large container, the container serving as the shell 50B includes various forms of containers, such as small, portable containers or large cargo containers.

The shape of the electrodes is not limited to a general L-shape; for example, they can also be flat or thin-film. In this case, each electrode 13B, 14B can be arranged facing the inner wall of the container, which serves as the shell 50B. Alternatively, each electrode 13B, 14B can be arranged facing the top and floor surfaces of the container. Alternatively, each electrode 13B, 14B can be arranged facing the door side and the inner side. Furthermore, the number of electrodes need to be at least one; for example, it can be two, four, or six.

If an electromagnetic field is applied to food inside the container, such as from electrodes 13B and 14B installed on the container (which serves as the shell 50B), water particles, including free water within the food, will form a beaded arrangement by pulling on each other. Water molecules arranged in this regular manner remain within the substance and do not combine with other components, thus keeping the food fresh and moist. Furthermore, containers equipped with electrodes 13B and 14B can also be placed in refrigerated warehouses, frozen warehouses, or freshness-maintaining warehouses, and managed within the required storage temperature range. However, even when placed in warehouses without specific freshness-maintaining functions, containers equipped with electrodes 13B and 14B can still maintain the freshness of the food.

In Figure 35, electrodes 13C and 14C are disposed within the oil tank of an existing fryer (shell 50C). The electrodes 13C and 14C disposed within the fryer, which serves as the shell 50C, are plate-shaped components made of conductive materials (e.g., copper, iron, stainless steel, aluminum, etc.) with an approximately L-shaped cross-section. Multiple holes (e.g., hexagonal or other polygonal or circular holes) are provided in the bottom plate, but these are not particularly limited. Furthermore, the bottom surfaces of electrodes 13C and 14C are arranged along the bottom surface of the oil tank within the fryer. A heating element 51 is disposed on the outer side of the oil tank, specifically on the outer side of the bottom surface of the oil tank in the example of Figure 35. Electrodes 13C and 14C are electrically connected to a controller 10, and the output voltage of the controller 10 is applied to each electrode 13C and 14C.

If an electromagnetic field is applied to the oil tank of the fryer from electrodes 13C and 14C, the interfacial tension at the oil/water interface decreases. Furthermore, the free water trapped within the food aligns itself in a beaded pattern due to the applied electromagnetic field, making it difficult for water to detach from the food. By controlling the water trapped within the food in this way, boiling over is suppressed, thus inhibiting oil penetration into the food. Additionally, this results in a superior texture and flavor in the cooked food.

In Embodiment 4, an example of applying voltage and/or current to the two electrodes 13 and 14 continuously was described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Voltage and/or current may not be applied to the two electrodes 13 and 14 within the housing 50 containing the substance continuously, but only at predetermined points in time or for predetermined durations. For example, in the case where the housing 50A is a refrigerator, by applying an electromagnetic field to the food inside the refrigerator for one hour using electrodes 13A and 14A, then not applying voltage and/or current to electrodes 13A and 14A for 47 hours, and then applying an electromagnetic field to the food inside the refrigerator for one hour again, the freshness of the food inside the refrigerator can be maintained continuously. Furthermore, power consumption can be reduced as a result. This is believed to be because by applying an electromagnetic field to the food inside the refrigerator for approximately one hour using electrodes 13A and 14A, water particles, such as free water contained in the food, form a beaded arrangement by pulling each other together, and this beaded arrangement of water molecules is maintained for a predetermined time even without an electromagnetic field. The duration for which an electromagnetic field is applied to the food inside the refrigerator using electrodes 13A and 14A, and the subsequent duration for which no voltage and/or current is applied to electrodes 13A and 14A, can be appropriately set according to the type or state of the food inside the refrigerator, storage temperature, humidity, etc. Furthermore, it is advisable to set the period for applying an electromagnetic field to the food inside the refrigerator at the moment it is newly placed in the refrigerator. In addition, the arrival of new food in the refrigerator can be detected, for example, by a camera inside the refrigerator or by the opening and closing of the door.

For example, if the hull 50B is a container, and an electromagnetic field is applied to the food inside the container for about one hour via electrodes 13B and 14B, the water particles, including free water within the food, will form a beaded arrangement by pulling on each other. Once the water molecules form this beaded arrangement, this state is maintained for a specified time even without an electromagnetic field. Therefore, by setting a specified period of no electromagnetic field application after the period of applying an electromagnetic field to the food inside the container using electrodes 13B and 14B, and by setting a period of electromagnetic field application, freshness maintenance can be achieved with reduced power consumption. Especially when the power source is a battery, reducing power consumption can extend the freshness maintenance time per charge. The period of electromagnetic field application is not limited to one hour; a period of no electromagnetic field application can also be appropriately set, and these periods can be adjusted according to the type or state of the substances inside the container, the temperature or humidity of the container, etc. Furthermore, it is advisable to set the period of electromagnetic field application to the substances inside the container at the moment they are first placed inside. In addition, the arrival of new materials into the container can be detected, for example, by a camera inside the container, a signal from the human-machine interface 31, or information from the management database of the warehouse containing the container.

Furthermore, for example, if the casing 50C is a deep fryer, it is not necessary to continuously apply an electromagnetic field to the oil tank of the fryer from electrodes 13C and 14C. A predetermined period of non-application of the electromagnetic field can be set after the period of applying the electromagnetic field to the oil tank using electrodes 13C and 14C, and a separate period of electromagnetic field application can also be set. In this case, the moisture trapped in the food is controlled, preventing boiling over and oil penetration into the food. Furthermore, this results in a superior effect in maintaining the texture and flavor of the cooked food. The period of applying and not applying the electromagnetic field to the oil tank of the fryer can be appropriately determined according to the food to be cooked, the type of oil, and the oil temperature.

Figures 36 to 41 show examples of electrodes of various shapes. Furthermore, the shape, arrangement, and voltage application method of the electrodes in this embodiment are not limited to those shown in Figures 1 to 41, and include variations or combinations of embodiments. Figure 36 shows another embodiment of the shape, arrangement, and voltage application method of two pairs of electrodes A, A′, B, B′, or a pair of electrodes A, B. Figure 36A is a diagram showing the application of voltage to a pair of opposing flat plates A and A′ and a pair of opposing flat plates B and B′. Figure 36B is a diagram showing the application of voltage to a pair of flat plates A and A′ disposed on adjacent surfaces and a pair of flat plates B and B′ disposed on adjacent surfaces. Figure 36C is a diagram showing the application of voltage to opposing bent electrodes A and B. Figure 36D is a diagram showing flat plates A and B disposed side-by-side on one side, and voltage applied to both flat plates A and B.

Figure 37 shows another embodiment of the shape, arrangement, and voltage application method of two pairs of electrodes A, A′, B, B′, or a pair of electrodes A, B. Figure 37A is a diagram showing the application of voltages to a pair of opposing plate electrodes A and A′ and opposing plate electrodes B and B′. Figure 37B is a diagram showing the application of voltages to a pair of opposing plate electrodes A and A′ and a pair of plate electrodes B and B′ disposed on adjacent surfaces. Figure 37C is a diagram showing the application of voltages to opposing U-shaped electrodes A and B.

Figure 38 shows another embodiment of the shape, arrangement, and voltage application method of a pair of curved electrodes A and B. Figure 38A is a diagram showing the application of voltage to electrodes A and B, which are shaped by cutting a hemisphere in half. Figure 38B is a diagram showing the application of voltage to opposing hemispherical electrodes A and B. Figure 38C is a diagram showing the application of voltage to a pair of electrodes A and B, which are shaped by cutting a cylinder in half along its height direction. Figure 38D is a diagram showing the application of voltage to a pair of electrodes A and B, which are shaped by cutting a bottomed cylinder in half along its height direction.

Figure 39 shows an electrode for a deep fryer, which is an electrode integrally formed by dividing the electrode into two electrodes in the width direction and electrically insulating them, with voltage applied between the two electrodes. Figure 41 shows a pair of electrodes along a cylindrical shape, containing multiple mesh-like grooves, disposed on a substrate (the black portion of the bottom surface) in an insulated state, with voltage applied between the two electrodes. Figure 41 also shows a comb-shaped electrode, in which a pair of comb-shaped electrodes can be arranged with the comb teeth alternating.

The embodiments described above are not intended to limit the invention to these specific embodiments, and can be equally applied to other embodiments included in the claims. Furthermore, the embodiments can be appropriately modified or combined. For example, in the embodiment showing a pair of electrodes, the number of electrodes is not limited to a pair; for example, it can be one electrode as shown in FIG10A, or three or more electrodes as shown in FIG9 and FIG10B. Additionally, in specific examples of the embodiments, 100V AC and 50kHz frequency are exemplified as the AC voltage component applied to the electrodes, but this is not strictly defined as 100V and 50kHz; an error of a degree conceived considering setting or measurement errors is allowed, for example, an error of about 2 to 5%. Furthermore, the values exemplified in each embodiment as the voltage applied to the electrodes are merely examples; the AC and/or DC components can be set within the setting range described in Embodiment 1, depending on the controlled object, control conditions, or specifications.

[Explanation of Symbols]

1: Sound quality or quality control device

10: Controller

11: Current and voltage application section

13-29: Electrodes

30: Reactive oxygen species

31: Human-Computer Interface (PC)

32: Material detection sensor

33: Current and Voltage Control Unit

35: Ministry of Communications

36: Control Department

37: Storage Department

38: Detector

40: Management Server

41: Connector

43: Database

45: Communication Network

50: Casing

51: Heating section.

Claims (11)

1. A sound quality or performance control device, characterized by comprising: at least one electrode, and A controller that controls at least one of the voltage value, current value, frequency, or phase of the voltage or current applied to the electrodes. By adjusting at least one of the voltage, current, frequency, or phase of the voltage or current with a DC component and/or AC component applied to the electrode, the state of the liquid present inside or around the substance disposed opposite the electrode is controlled by adjusting at least one of the electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic wave, sound wave, or ultrasonic wave generated by the electrode, thereby controlling at least one of the electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic wave, sound wave, or ultrasonic wave generated by the electrode, and thus controlling the sound quality or quality of the substance. 2. The sound quality or quality control device according to claim 1, characterized in that, for a liquid present inside or on the surface of a substance disposed opposite to the electrode, at least one of the following controls is performed: (1) Control the interfacial tension of the liquid to reduce it; (2) Control the liquid to make it combine in a beaded arrangement; (3) Controlling the liquid particles to make them smaller; or (4) Control the orientation of liquid molecules or liquid particles. 3. The sound quality or quality control device according to claim 2, wherein the interfacial tension of the liquid controlled to be in a reduced state includes at least one of the interfacial tension between the liquid and other liquids, the interfacial tension between the liquid and gas, or the interfacial tension between the liquid and solid. 4. The sound quality or quality control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, after the electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic wave, sound wave or ultrasonic wave generated by the electrode is removed, the substance disposed opposite to the electrode will still maintain the effect of improving the properties of the substance for a specified period. 5. The sound quality or quality control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the electrode is disposed in the container for storing the substance. 6. The sound quality or quality control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, when the substance is a material derived from an autophyte, the controller applies at least one of a voltage or current having at least one of a DC component or an AC component to the electrode, thereby controlling the frequency characteristics, strain rate, S/N ratio, noise, dynamic range, sustain, sound, attack, string smoothness, timbre, sound balance, mass balance, speed, flow, operability, water resistance, mechanical resistance, frictional resistance, fuel consumption rate, and durability of the substance. The following are the sound quality or quality controls to be in the specified state: range, accuracy, directional stability, impact efficiency, impact transmission characteristics, force or spin applied to the ball, directionality of the shot, ball speed, flight distance, impact feel, throwing distance, mechanical resistance, snow surface contact, rigidity, strength, vibration characteristics, softness, hardness, cushioning, skin feel, aesthetics, sugar content, acidity, hardness, AGEs fraction, sugar concentration, cell concentration, taste, aroma, mouthfeel, freshness, aging, preservation, anti-slip, anti-turbidity, anti-mildew, anti-rust, anti-algae, or anti-cracking. 7. The sound quality or quality control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that at least one of the voltage or current is controlled to increase or decrease continuously or stepwise, or to become a predetermined value. 8. The sound quality or quality control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the controller is connected to at least one of a smartphone, mobile phone, tablet terminal, mobile terminal, or PC. 9. The sound quality or quality control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the controller is communicatively connected to a management server. The management server performs at least one of the following: updating or maintaining the controller's program; monitoring or surveillance of the controller's usage status; collecting or analyzing the controller's location or environmental information; collecting or analyzing improvement request information from the controller; maintaining the controller; collecting control information from the controller and/or information from the database; generating and providing learning model information for the controller; providing control information based on the learning model information; or providing control parameters for the controller. 10. A method for controlling sound quality or performance, characterized by comprising: a step of disposing, opposite to at least one electrode, of a substance comprising at least any one of wood, leather, metal, inorganic material, organic material, material derived from plants or animals, or composite material, having a liquid interior or surface; and Control steps for controlling at least one of the voltage value, current value, frequency, or phase of the voltage or current applied to the electrodes by a controller; In the control step, by controlling at least one of the voltage value, current value, frequency, and phase of a specified voltage or current having a DC component and/or an AC component applied to at least one electrode, at least one of the electric field, magnetic field, electromagnetic field, electromagnetic wave, sound wave, or ultrasonic wave generated by the electrode is made to function, thereby controlling the state of the liquid present inside or around the substance disposed opposite to the electrode, thereby controlling the sound quality or quality of the substance. 11. A program characterized in that the control steps of the sound quality or quality control method according to claim 10 are executed by a computer.