JP2004286296A - Drying method and drier of seed or bulb of plant - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a drying method of a seed or a bulb of a plant, and a drier used for the drying method for reducing a space required for drying the seed or the bulb of the plant, reducing working manhours, and reducing a drying period. <P>SOLUTION: This drier 10 of the seed or the bulb of the plant has a drying chamber 15 kept in a sealed state, a dehumidifying means 12 for dehumidifying inside air, an air duct forming means 11 for forming air ducts r1, r2, r3, and r4, an air blowing means 13 for generating circulating winds W1, W2, and W3 by blowing the inside air, and a ventilatable seed housing vessel 14 arranged in the air duct r3, and housing the seed or the bulb. The dehumidified circulating wind W2 is passed through the inside of the seed housing vessel 14, and dries the seed or the bulb. The seed housing vessel 14 is arranged so that the circulating wind W2 uniformly passes through the inside of the seed housing vessel 14. The inside air of the drying chamber 15 may be cooled by arranging a cooling means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

【０１０５】
表１に示したように、各コンテナＣ１、Ｃ２に収納された種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラを比較すると、開口率の大きなコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋の乾燥速度が早く、また、乾燥ムラも少なかった。
【０１０６】
コンテナＣ２に収納された種子袋のうち、特に収穫時期が若干早かった若採り種に乾燥が不十分な部分が残った。
【０１０７】
（ｂ）実施例１における各コンテナＣ１、Ｃ２の乾燥速度と質量減少率を図８及び表２に示す。
【０１０８】
【表２】

【０１０９】
表２に示したように、乾燥初期の３日間は水分蒸散が活発であり、ほぼ直線的に乾燥が進んだが、４日目からは水分蒸散が緩慢になった。６日目の計測で質量減少率はコンテナＣ１が５８、２％、コンテナＣ２が５３．８％となり、必要となる乾燥はほぼ完了していたが、一部に収穫時期の早い青い種子が見られたため、庫内相対湿度が６０％になったら除湿停止をするように設定し、さらに一日乾燥し、合計乾燥日数は７日間であった。
【０１１０】
なお、比較例の乾燥日数は１０日間から１２日間であった。
【０１１１】
コンテナ別では、コンテナＣ２と比し開口率の大きなコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋が一日程度早く乾燥が進み、最終の質量減少率はコンテナＣ１が６１．６％、コンテナＣ２が５７．２％であった。
【０１１２】
（ｃ）コンテナＣの配置される上下方向の位置の相違による種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を図９、図１０及び表３に示した。なお、図９はコンテナＣ１、図１０はコンテナＣ２に収納された種子袋についての測定結果である。また、最上段から順に一段目とし、下方に向けて二段目、三段目・・・としている。
【０１１３】
【表３】

【０１１４】
図９及び図１０に示したように、風が良く当たる最上段と最下段のコンテナＣに収納された種子袋の乾燥が早く、最上段と最下段との間に位置するコンテナＣに収納された種子袋の乾燥が遅くなる傾向となった。
【０１１５】
また、３〜４日目が乾燥ムラが生じるピークであり、乾燥が進むに従って乾燥の均一化が進行した。
【０１１６】
コンテナＣ別の比較ではコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋の乾燥ムラが少なく、より均一に乾燥された。
【０１１７】
（ｄ）コンテナＣの配置される水平方向の位置の相違による種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を図１１及び表４に示した。
【０１１８】
【表４】

【０１１９】
図１１、表４に示したように、乾燥のための条件の不利な冷却機能付除湿機１１２側から三列目までのコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋の乾燥が早く、乾燥ムラも少なかった。続いてコンテナＣ１及びコンテナＣ２が混在した四列目のコンテナＣに収納された乾燥が早く、乾燥ムラも少なかった。五列目、六列目に配置されたコンテナＣ２に収納された種子袋の乾燥が遅く、コンテナＣの開口率の相違に基づく種子袋の乾燥速度、乾燥ムラの相違が顕著に現れた。
【０１２０】
（ｅ）温度及び湿度の経時変化を図１２に示す。また、日にち別の最高、最低、平均温度及び湿度を表５に示す。
【０１２１】
【表５】

【０１２２】
図１２に示したように、テント式乾燥室１１５内の温度は２８℃の設定に対して２７℃〜３０℃で推移した。
【０１２３】
また、テント式乾燥室１１５内の湿度は乾燥開始直後には７０％を切り、蒸れることなく乾燥でき、最低湿度は４５％を下回った。
【０１２４】
７月１５日午後からの湿度上昇は、湿度制御（６０％以下で除湿ＯＦＦ）の結果であり、心配した温度上昇は起こらなかった。
【０１２５】
（ｆ）時間別消費電力量を図１３に示す。また、日にち別電力消費量を表６に示す。
【０１２６】
【表６】

【０１２７】
図１３、表６に示したように、冷却機能付除湿機１１２の使用電力量は、最大稼働でコンテナＣをテント式乾燥室１１５内に配置した直後の高湿時が２．３９ｋＷｈである。そして、２日目が２．２４ｋＷｈ、３日目が２．２５ｋＷｈ、４日目が２．２１ｋＷｈ、５日目が２．１７ｋＷｈ、湿度調整を始めた６日目が１．９６ｋＷｈ、７日目が１．７０ｋＷｈと湿度低下に伴って下がり、冷却機能付除湿機１１２の定格（２．３ｋＷｈ）より少なく推移した。
【０１２８】
なお、累積消費電力は３５９．１ｋＷであった。
【０１２９】
（実施例２）
（１）試験期間
平成１４年７月２２日〜平成１４年７月２８日
（２）使用機材
本実施例２では、実施例１において使用した種子の乾燥装置１１０を用い、更に最上段のコンテナＣの上面を風路形成手段（非通気性部材）としての差圧シート１１１（図６中、二点鎖線で示した）で覆って種子を乾燥させた。
【０１３０】
また、本実施例２においては、コンテナＣとして、開口率６０％のコンテナＣ１のみを用いた。
（３）乾燥対象物
晩生品種玉葱の種子袋
乾燥前質量：５９７．３９ｋｇ（コンテナＣ１：１４０個）
対象圃場：約２，１８２平方メートル（約２．２反）
（４）試験方法
実施例１と同様の工程で種子袋の乾燥を行った。ただし、コンテナＣ１を７月２２日に６８個、７月２３日に７２個と、異なる日に配置して乾燥を開始した。
【０１３１】
また、比較例２として、晩生品種玉葱の種子袋について比較例１と同様の工程で乾燥を行った。
（５）結果
（ａ）コンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋の質量及び含水率変化を表７に示す。
【０１３２】
【表７】

【０１３３】
差圧シート１１１による風の整流効果が現れ、種子袋の乾燥速度が速く、乾燥ムラも改善し、脱穀状況も良好であった。
【０１３４】
（ｂ）種子袋の乾燥速度及び質量減少率を図１４及び表８に示した。
【０１３５】
【表８】

【０１３６】
図１４及び表８に示したように、７月２２日に配置したコンテナＣ１の種子袋は、５日間で質量減少率が６２．４％に達し、６日目には６６．２％まで乾燥できた。
【０１３７】
また、７月２３日に配置したコンテナＣ１の種子袋は７月２２日に配置したコンテナＣ１の種子袋より乾燥がやや遅くなったが、５日間の乾燥で質量減少率が６０．０％に達し、いずれも早生品種のコンテナＣ１の種子袋（５日目の質量減少率が５２．８％）より１〜２日早期に乾燥が終了した。これは、テント式乾燥室１１５内に配置した種子袋量の相違と、差圧シート１１１の整流効果に起因するものと考えられる。また、一日天日で仕上げた後の脱穀状況も良好であった。
【０１３８】
なお、従来の乾燥方法では、１０日間乾燥し、仕上げ乾燥は出荷日が迫っていたことから温風乾燥を使用した。
【０１３９】
（ｃ）コンテナＣの配置される上下方向の位置の相違による種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を図１５、図１６及び表９に示した。なお、図１５は７月２２日に配置されたコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋、図１６は７月２３日に配置されたコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋についての測定結果である。また、最上段から順に一段目とし、下方に向けて二段目、三段目・・・としている。
【０１４０】
【表９】

【０１４１】
図１５及び表９に示したように、７月２３日に配置されたコンテナＣ１については、最下段のコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋の乾燥がやや早かったが、その上方の五段はほぼ均等に乾燥が進んだ。図１６に示したように、７月２３日に配置されたコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋についても同様の傾向を示した。
【０１４２】
（ｄ）コンテナＣの配置される水平方向の位置の相違による種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を図１７及び表１０に示した。
【０１４３】
【表１０】

【０１４４】
７月２２日に配置されたコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋については、コンテナＣ１の配置される水平方向の位置の相違により乾燥中期にはやや乾燥速度に差が生じたが、６日目には殆ど解消した。７月２３日に配置されたコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋については、入り口側（冷却機能付除湿機１１２の反対側）から早く乾く傾向を示した。
【０１４５】
（ｅ）温度及び湿度の経時変化を図１８に示す。本実施例２においては、テント式乾燥室１１５外の温度及び湿度も測定した。また、日にち別の最高、最低、平均温度及び湿度を表１１に示す。
【０１４６】
【表１１】

【０１４７】
図１８に示したように、テント式乾燥室１１５内の温度は外気温の上昇に伴って、テント生地からの熱進入が大きく２８℃の設定に対して２℃程度高く推移した。
【０１４８】
テント式乾燥室１１５内の湿度は、開始当初の７０％から５日目には５０％を下回り、順調に種子袋を乾燥することができた。なお、７月２７日の午後からは過乾燥防止のため湿度調整を行った。
【０１４９】
（ｆ）時間別消費電力量を図１９に示す。また、日にち別電力消費量を表１２に示す。
【０１５０】
【表１２】

【０１５１】
図１９、表１２に示したように、冷却機能付除湿機１１２の使用電力量は、平均で２．１０ｋＷｈであり、ピーク時で２．２０ｋＷｈ、６日間の累計消費電力は３０９．１ｋＷであった。
【０１５２】
（ｇ）実施例１、２及び比較例１、２の発芽率を表１３に示した。なお、発芽率の調査は乾燥方法の違いによる種子品質の確認を目的として実施した。
【０１５３】
また、調査条件には規格があり、シャーレに濾紙を２枚敷き、水を４ｍＬ加えて種子を１００粒播き、蓋を閉めた容器を２０℃の恒温室に置き、６日目に発芽勢、１２日目に発芽率を読むものである。
【０１５４】
【表１３】

【０１５５】
表１３に示したように、実施例１は比較例１よりも発芽率が高くなり、実施例２は比較例２よりも発芽率が高くなった。
【０１５６】
このため、実施例１、２では、従来の吊し乾燥方法による比較例１、２と比し、品質面でいずれも問題のないことがわかった。
【０１５７】
また、以上の結果の主要なものをまとめたものを表１４に示した。
【０１５８】
【表１４】

【０１５９】
（考察）
（１）評価
実施例１及び２により、本発明の乾燥方法は、従来の吊し乾燥方法と比較して以下の評価が得られた。
（ａ）乾燥時間が２〜５日間短縮できる。
（ｂ）約１１，９００平方メートル（約一町二反）の圃場面積において、従来の吊し乾燥方法では、玉葱の種子袋の収穫から乾燥開始までの作業人員は約９０人役であり、本発明の種子の乾燥装置を用いた乾燥方法であれば、従来と比し１／３程度は作業人員の削減が可能と考えられる。更に、従来の吊し乾燥方法では、天日乾燥仕上げ前の茎の切断に６人役を要するため、作業人員を合計で３５〜４０人程度は削減できる。
（ｃ）本発明では、種子袋のみを収穫するため収穫後の輸送が容易になる。
（ｄ）本発明では、降雨時の吹き込み防止のためのシートの開閉が不要であり、雨の吹込みが原因で起こる発芽の心配がない。
（ｅ）乾燥するために要する面積を１／３に縮小でき、空きスペースが有効利用できる。更に、乾燥場を新設する場合には、建築費用を削減できる。
（ｆ）若干の若採りでも乾燥できるため、収穫時期が拡大し、日程調整に幅ができる。
（ｇ）切断されずに種子袋に残された茎片も十分に乾いているため、脱穀作業が容易である。
【０１６０】
（２）実用システムの設計
（ａ）設計緒元
▲１▼処理量
圃場面積 約５，９５０平方メートル（約６反）分
入庫質量 ３００ｋｇ／９９１．７ｍ２（約１反）×約５、９５０ｍ２（約６反）＝約１，８００ｋｇ
▲２▼コンテナ
外形寸法 ６００Ｗ×４００Ｄ×２３０Ｈ
入庫質量 ４．５ｋｇ／個
数量 １，８００ｋｇ／４．５ｋｇ＝４００個
▲３▼質量減少率
６２％
▲４▼乾燥日数
６日
▲５▼必要除湿量
１，８００ｋｇ×０．６２＝１，１１６ｋｇ
１，１１６ｋｇ／（２４ｈ×６日）＝７．７５ｋｇ／ｈ
（ｂ）システム設計と仕様
本発明の種子の乾燥装置１０において好適な仕様の一例を、表１５に示した。
【０１６１】
【表１５】

【０１６２】
（ｃ）ランニングコスト計算
▲１▼契約種別
低圧電力
▲２▼料金単価
基本料金単価 １，０１５円／ｋＷ・月（不使用月は半額）
電力料金単価 １１．１５円／ｋＷｈ（夏季料金適用単価）
▲３▼消費電力
９．３ｋＷｈ
▲４▼契約電力
９ｋＷ
▲５▼ランニングコスト
基本料金
９ｋＷ×１，０１５円×１月＝９，１３５円（使用月）
９ｋＷ×１，０１５円×１１月×０．５＝４１，１０８円（不使用月）
電力量料金
９．３ｋＷｈ×２４ｈ×６日×１１．１５円＝１４，９３２円
合計 ６４、２７５円／年
（ｄ）経済的効果
圃場面積約１２，０００平方メートル（約１町２反）での経済性を検討した。
▲１▼本発明の種子の乾燥装置において特に必要となる費用
イニシャルコスト：１，６５０，０００円／６，０００ｍ３×２基＝３，３００，０００円
ランニングコスト：６４，２７５円／６，０００ｍ３×２基＝１２８，５５０円／年
▲２▼従来の吊し乾燥方法に必要とされる人件費と、本発明の玉葱の種子の乾燥方法に必要とされる人件費との比較を表１６に示した。なお、人件費は１，５００円／時として算出した。
【０１６３】
【表１６】

【０１６４】
表１６に示したように、従来の吊し乾燥方法より削減できた人件費は４０６，８００円／年であり、本実用システムの試算と実施例１での結果とがほぼ一致した。また、従来の吊し乾燥方法の乾燥小屋を新設する場合は、圃場面積約１２，０００平方メートル（約１２０ａ）に対して９００万円程度が必要であり、本発明の種子の乾燥装置を導入した場合は、建屋面積の縮小により建築費が半分以下に減額されるため、建築費が設備費を上回ることになる。
【０１６５】
（まとめ）
玉葱の種子を乾燥小屋に吊して自然乾燥を行う従来の吊し乾燥方法に代えて、除湿装置を利用して早生品種は７月９日から、晩生品種は７月２２日から乾燥を開始した。
【０１６６】
従来の吊し乾燥方法では、茎を結束して吊り込む方法であるが、本発明では種子袋のみをコンテナに収納して乾燥室内に積み上げて配置して乾燥した。
【０１６７】
開口率の大きなコンテナの乾燥効率が良く、積み上げたコンテナ上部に差圧シートを掛けることにより乾燥ムラが解消でき、乾燥日数は従来方法より２〜５日短く、６日間で乾燥できることがわかった。
【０１６８】
発芽率の調査では、早生品種１００％、晩生品種も９７％と良好であり、品質についても問題なく、本発明の種子の乾燥装置を用いた乾燥方法では、従来の吊し乾燥方法と比し、有利な効果が得られた。
【０１６９】
【発明の効果】
以上説明したように、請求項１に記載の玉葱の種子の乾燥方法によれば、前記種子収納容器を前記風路に配置して、前記循環風を前記種子収納容器内を通過させて前記種子又は前記球根を乾燥するため、前記種子収納容器を積み重ねて配置することができ、乾燥スペースの低減を図ることができる。
【０１７０】
そして、前記内気を除湿するため、前記種子又は前記球根の乾燥期間を一定に保つことができる。
【０１７１】
更に、前記循環風が均一に前記種子収納容器内を通過するように該種子収納容器を前記循環風の風路に配置するため、前記種子又は前記球根を均一に乾燥させることができ、乾燥期間の短縮を図ることができる。
【０１７２】
また、請求項２に記載された発明によれば、前記種子又は前記球根の発芽率が低下する温度より、前記内気を低温に冷却するため、外気温が高温の場合であっても、前記種子又は前記球根の発芽率の低下を抑制することができる。
【０１７３】
また、請求項３に記載の発明によれば、前記乾燥室の内気を除湿する前記除湿手段を有しているため、該乾燥室内を除湿することができ、前記種子又は前記球根の乾燥期間を略一定に保つことができる。
【０１７４】
そして、前記風路に配置され、前記種子又は前記球根を収納する通風可能な種子収納容器を有しているため、前記循環風を前記種子収納容器内に作用させることができ、前記種子又は前記球根の乾燥期間の短縮を図ることができる。
【０１７５】
更に、前記種子収納容器を前記風路に配置するため、該種子収納容器を積み重ねて配置することができ、乾燥スペースの低減を図ることができる。
【０１７６】
また、請求項４に記載された発明によれば、前記内気を冷却する冷却手段を有しているため、前記乾燥室外の気温が上昇しても前記乾燥室の内気を前記種子又は球根の発芽率の低下する温度より低温に保つことができ、発芽率の低下の抑制を図ることができる。
【０１７７】
また、請求項５に記載された発明によれば、前記非通気性部材が前記種子収納容器と前記送風手段とを画成するため、前記送風手段からの送風が直接に前記種子収納容器に作用せず、前記種子又は前記球根の乾燥が不均一となることを防止することができる。
【０１７８】
また、請求項６に記載された発明によれば、前記種子収納容器が、前記循環風が均一に該種子収納容器内を通過するように配置されるため、前記循環風を均一に前記種子収納容器内を通過させて個体差を生じさせず前記種子又は前記球根を均一に乾燥させることができる。
【図面の簡単な説明】
【図１】本発明の玉葱の種子の乾燥装置の側面模式図である。
【図２】本発明の玉葱の種子の乾燥装置の上面模式図である。
【図３】本発明の玉葱の種子の乾燥装置が有する種子収納容器の斜視図である。
【図４】本発明の玉葱の種子の乾燥方法における茎の切り離し位置を示した説明図（ａ）、及び種子袋の側面図（ｂ）である。
【図５】従来の玉葱の種子の乾燥に用いられている吊し乾燥方法の説明図である。
【図６】実施例で使用した植物の種子又は球根の乾燥装置の側面模式図であり、二点鎖線は実施例２で用いた風路形成手段としての差圧シートを示している。
【図７】実施例で使用した植物の種子又は球根の乾燥装置の上面模式図であり、二点鎖線は実施例２で用いた風路形成手段としての差圧シートを示している。
【図８】実施例１における各コンテナＣ１、Ｃ２の乾燥速度と質量減少率を示した図である。
【図９】実施例１におけるコンテナＣ１（開口率の大きなコンテナ）の配置される上下方向の位置の相違による種子袋（種子）の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を示した図である。
【図１０】実施例１におけるコンテナＣ２（開口率の小さなコンテナ）の配置される上下方向の位置の相違による種子袋（種子）の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を示した図である。
【図１１】実施例１におけるコンテナＣの配置される水平方向の位置の相違による種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を示した図である。
【図１２】実施例１における温度及び湿度の経時変化を示した図である。
【図１３】実施例１における時間別消費電力量を示した図である。
【図１４】実施例２における種子袋の乾燥速度及び質量減少率を示した図である。
【図１５】実施例２における、コンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を示した図であり、７月２２日に配置されたコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋についての測定結果である。
【図１６】実施例２における、コンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を示した図であり、７月２３日に配置されたコンテナＣ１に収納された種子袋についての測定結果である。
【図１７】実施例２におけるコンテナＣの配置される水平方向の位置の相違による種子袋の乾燥速度及び乾燥ムラの経時変化を示した図である。
【図１８】実施例２における温度及び湿度の経時変化を示した図である。
【図１９】実施例２における時間別消費電力量を示した図である。
【符号の説明】
１ 玉葱の種子袋（植物の種子又は球根）
２ 茎
１０ 玉葱の種子の乾燥装置（植物の種子又は球根の乾燥装置）
１１ 非通気性部材（風路形成手段）
１２ 除湿機（除湿手段、冷却手段）
１３ 送風機（送風手段）
１４ コンテナ（種子収納容器）
Ｒ 乾燥室
ｒ１、ｒ２、ｒ３、ｒ４ 風路
Ｗ１、Ｗ２、Ｗ３ 循環風[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a method for drying plant seeds or bulbs for producing plant seeds or bulbs, and an apparatus for drying plant seeds or bulbs.
[0002]
[Prior art]
As a mode of producing seeds of a plant, a mode in which a harvesting farmer harvests, dries, thresh, and weighs the seeds, and then ships the seeds to a seedling maker through a union of harvesting farmers is common.
[0003]
Also, in the production of plant bulbs, generally, harvesting farmers harvest the bulbs and then dry them.
[0004]
Here, the reason why the seed or the bulb is dried is that if the seed or the bulb is not dried, the seed or the bulb germinates or rots. Therefore, the seed or the bulb is dried so as to be in a dormant state.
[0005]
As a drying method in such a method for producing seeds or bulbs, generally, a drying method in which the air is naturally dried by being placed outdoors or in a small indoor area through which wind from the outside passes is adopted (hereinafter, referred to as “the drying method”). Natural drying method ”).
[0006]
As another drying method of this kind, for example, there is a drying method in the production of onion seeds as shown in FIG.
[0007]
This is a method of hanging and drying a seed bag (flower ball) 1 of onion that has been cut and harvested together with the stem 2 (hereinafter referred to as a “hanging drying method”). is there.
[0008]
This hanging and drying method utilizes the fact that the onion seed bag 1 grows on the upper end of the stem 2, binds and binds several stems 2, 2... And hangs them on the hanging shelf 3 a of the drying shed 3. This is a drying method for drying naturally, and reduces the area required for drying.
[0009]
After performing the hanging and drying method, the seed bag 1 from which the stem 2 has been cut is dried in the sun to finish dry, and seeds are produced from the seed bag 1 through a threshing step.
[0010]
Further, as another drying method in the production of such seeds, there is also known a drying method in which a rotary drying device is used and ventilation is performed in a direction perpendicular to a drum rotation axis of the drying device (for example, Patent Document 1). reference.).
[0011]
[Patent Document 1]
JP-A-08-168306 (page 2, FIG. 1)
[0012]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the conventional natural drying method, in order to dry seeds or bulbs at an early stage, it is necessary to spread seeds or bulbs without thickly depositing them, and a large area is required for drying.
[0013]
Moreover, the natural drying method has a problem that the time required for drying may be long depending on the weather.
[0014]
Further, in the hanging and drying method, there is a problem that since the work load for bundling the stems 2, 2,... And hanging them on the hanging shelf 3a is large, the number of work steps is increased and the production cost is increased.
[0015]
Furthermore, in the hanging drying method, since the side of the drying hut 3 is open, it is necessary to perform work for preventing blowing by using a waterproof sheet or the like in rainy weather. There is a problem that germination may occur.
[0016]
Further, in the hanging drying method, although a large drying space is not required as compared with the natural drying method, it is necessary to arrange the hanging shelves 3a at predetermined intervals to improve ventilation, and the seed bag 1 is hung on the hanging shelf 3a. Therefore, there is a problem that there is a certain limit to the reduction of the drying space because a working space is required.
[0017]
And, in the hanging drying method, since the drying is performed using the natural environment in the same manner as the natural drying method, there is a problem that the time required for the drying is often long due to the influence of the outside air temperature and humidity. there were.
[0018]
Moreover, the hanging drying method has a problem that the progress of drying varies depending on the position where the seed bag 1 is hung, and the period required for drying is prolonged.
[0019]
On the other hand, the drying method described in Patent Literature 1 requires a rotary drying device, which increases capital investment costs and equipment maintenance costs.
[0020]
In addition, the number of seeds that can be stored in the drum of the rotary drying apparatus is limited to a small amount, and there is a problem that an operation of replacing the seeds in the drum is required and the number of operation steps is increased.
[0021]
The present invention has been made to solve such a conventional problem, and can reduce the space required for drying plant seeds or bulbs, reduce the number of work steps, and reduce the drying period. An object of the present invention is to provide a method for drying plant seeds or bulbs and a drying apparatus used in the drying method.
[0022]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention described in claim 1 stores a seed or a bulb of a plant in a seed storage container through which air can pass, and dehumidifies the inside air of a drying chamber that is kept in a sealed state and can circulate inside air. Circulating the dehumidified inside air to generate a circulating wind, disposing the seed storage container in the circulating wind air path so that the circulating air passes uniformly through the seed storage container, Alternatively, a method for drying plant seeds or bulbs, characterized by drying the bulbs.
[0023]
In the method for drying plant seeds or bulbs according to claim 1, the seed storage container is arranged in the air path, and the circulating wind is passed through the seed storage container so that the seed or the bulb is dried. Since the bulbs are dried, the seed storage containers can be stacked and arranged, and the drying space can be reduced.
[0024]
And since the inside air is dehumidified, the drying period of the seed or the bulb can be kept constant.
[0025]
Furthermore, since the seed storage container is arranged in the airflow path of the circulating wind such that the circulating air passes uniformly in the seed storage container, the seeds or the bulbs can be dried uniformly, and the drying period Can be shortened.
[0026]
The invention described in claim 2 is characterized in that the inside air is cooled to a lower temperature than the temperature at which the germination rate of the seeds or the bulbs decreases, and the seeds or bulbs of the plant according to claim 1 are cooled. It is a drying method.
[0027]
In the method for drying the seeds or bulbs of the plant according to claim 2, the inside air is cooled to a lower temperature than the temperature at which the germination rate of the seeds or the bulbs is reduced. Even in this case, a decrease in the germination rate of the seed or the bulb can be suppressed.
[0028]
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a drying chamber kept in a closed state, a dehumidifier for dehumidifying the inside air of the drying chamber, and an air path forming means for forming an air path for circulating the inside air. A blowing means for blowing the inside air to generate a circulating wind, and a ventilated seed storage container that is disposed in the air path and stores plant seeds or bulbs; It is a bulb drying device.
[0029]
The apparatus according to claim 3 configured as described above includes the dehumidifying unit that dehumidifies the inside air of the drying chamber, so that the drying chamber can be dehumidified, and a drying period of the seed or the bulb is performed. Can be kept substantially constant.
[0030]
And since it is arrange | positioned in the said wind path and has the air-permeable seed storage container which stores the said seed or the said bulb, the said circulating air can act on the said seed storage container, and the said seed or the said The bulb drying period can be shortened.
[0031]
Furthermore, since the seed storage containers are arranged in the air path, the seed storage containers can be stacked and arranged, and the drying space can be reduced.
[0032]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the plant seed or bulb drying apparatus according to the third aspect, further comprising a cooling unit for cooling the inside air.
[0033]
In the apparatus according to claim 4 configured as above, since the cooling means for cooling the inside air is provided, even if the temperature outside the drying chamber rises, the inside air of the drying chamber is germinated with the seeds or the bulbs. The temperature can be kept lower than the temperature at which the rate of germination decreases, and a decrease in the rate of germination can be suppressed.
[0034]
The invention described in claim 5 is characterized in that the air path forming means is a non-permeable member that defines the seed storage container and the air blowing means. 2. A drying device for seeds or bulbs of a plant according to item 1.
[0035]
In the apparatus according to claim 5, the air-impermeable member defines the seed storage container and the air blowing means, so that the air from the air blowing means directly acts on the seed storage container. Without this, it is possible to prevent the drying of the seed or the bulb from becoming uneven.
[0036]
The invention described in claim 6 is characterized in that the seed storage container is arranged so that the circulating wind uniformly passes through the seed storage container. An apparatus for drying seeds or bulbs of the described plant.
[0037]
In the apparatus according to claim 6, the seed storage container is arranged so that the circulating air passes through the seed storage container uniformly, so that the circulating air is uniformly stored in the seed storage container. The seed or the bulb can be dried uniformly without causing individual differences by passing through the container.
[0038]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0039]
In the present embodiment, an onion seed bag is used as a plant seed.
[0040]
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a plant seed or bulb drying apparatus 10 of the present embodiment includes a drying chamber 15 installed outdoors and a dehumidifier as a dehumidifying unit for dehumidifying the inside air of the drying chamber 15. 12, a non-breathable member 11 as an air path forming means for forming an air path for circulating the inside air, a blower 13, 13,... As a blowing means for blowing the inside air, and a seed storage container , Containers 14, 14...
[0041]
The drying chamber 15 includes a floor 15a, side walls 15b, 15c, 15d, and 15e erected on the floor 15a, and a roof 15f provided at an upper end of the side walls 15b, 15c, 15d, and 15e. have.
[0042]
The floor portion 15a, the side wall portions 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e, and the roof portion 15f are formed of a waterproof sheet, a waterproof panel, and the like so that moisture such as rain and dew does not enter the drying chamber 15, and The chamber 15 is kept substantially closed.
[0043]
The drying chamber 15 is provided with a fan fitting member 13a extending downward from the roof 15f.
[0044]
The blower fitting member 13a is located near the side wall portion 15e, is provided between the pair of opposed side wall portions 15b and 15d, and has a rectangular shape.
[0045]
The blowers 13, 13,... Are fitted and fixed to the through holes provided in the blower fitting member 13a so as to blow horizontally toward the side wall 15c.
[0046]
Further, the lower end of the blower fitting member 13a keeps a predetermined distance from the floor portion 15a, and a plurality of pillar members (not shown) are provided at the lower end of the blower fitting member 13a. The member 13a, the blowers 13, 13,..., And the base end 11c of the non-breathable member 11 are held.
[0047]
The air-impermeable member 11 extends horizontally from a base end 11c provided near the lower end of the blower fitting member 13a, and has an air path r1 above the drying chamber R and an air path r below. r3, and air paths r2 and r4 are formed near the opposing side walls 15c and 15e, respectively.
[0048]
The non-breathable member 11 has a configuration in which a non-breathable sheet is stuck to an outer frame such as a plastic pipe formed in a rectangular shape, and as shown in FIG. , 15d.
[0049]
An air path r2 is formed at a distal end portion 11d of the non-breathable member 11 at a predetermined interval from the side wall portion 15c, so that air can pass vertically between the side wall portion 15c and the distal end portion 11d. ing.
[0050]
An air passage r4 is formed at a predetermined interval between the side wall 15e and the base end 11c, so that the wind can pass vertically between the side wall 15e and the base end 11c. I have.
[0051]
Further, the base end portion 11c is fixed by a hinge or the like, and the non-breathable member 11 is rotatable around the base end portion 11c.
[0052]
In addition, the plant seed or bulb drying device 10 of the present embodiment has a lifting device 16 for lifting and lowering the distal end 11 d of the non-permeable member 11.
[0053]
The lifting device 16 includes a wire member 16a, pulley members 16b and 16b fixed to the roof portion 15f, a hook member 16c firmly fixed to the side wall portion 15c, and a ring member 16d lockable to the hook member. have.
[0054]
The ring member 16d is attached to one end of the wire member 16a, and the other end of the wire member 16a is attached to the tip 11d.
[0055]
The wire member 16a is slidably mounted on the pulley member 16b, and both ends of the wire member are suspended from the pulley member 16b.
[0056]
In addition, the dehumidifier 12 includes an indoor unit 12a, an outdoor unit 12b, and a control device 12c that controls the indoor unit 12a and the outdoor unit 12b.
[0057]
The dehumidifier 12 is connected to a power supply (not shown) so as to dehumidify the inside of the drying chamber 15.
[0058]
Further, the dehumidifier 12 of the present embodiment is provided with a cooling means so that the heat in the drying chamber R can be discharged to the outside of the drying chamber 15 to cool the inside of the drying chamber 15.
[0059]
The control device 12c is configured to apply a predetermined control voltage to the indoor unit 12a and the outdoor unit 12b such that the inside air of the drying chamber 15 maintains the set temperature and humidity.
[0060]
Are arranged in the air path r3 defined by the air blower 13 by the non-breathable member 11 so that the air blown by the air blower 13 does not directly hit the container 14.
[0061]
Are arranged on the floor portion 15a in a state of being substantially in close contact with the adjacent container 14, and continue from the side wall portion 15b to the side wall portion 15d until approaching the side wall portions 15b, 15d. Is established.
[0062]
Further, the containers 14, 14,... Are stacked so as to be close to the air-impermeable member 11 so as to close the air passage r3, and are arranged so as to overlap the entire surface of the air-impermeable member 11 in a top view. .
[0063]
As shown in FIG. 3, the container 14 has a container lower bottom wall 14a and container side walls 14b, 14b..., And has a hollow rectangular parallelepiped shape in which an upper bottom 14c is open.
[0064]
The container lower bottom wall 14a and the container side walls 14b, 14b,... Are lattice-shaped and have openings 14d, 14d,.
[0065]
The openings 14d are formed in a size that does not allow the onion seed bag 1 to pass through.
[0066]
Moreover, a plurality of openings 14d, 14d... Are provided so that the opening ratio of the container side walls 14b, 14b. Has become.
[0067]
Next, the operation of the plant seed or bulb drying device 10 having such a configuration will be described in accordance with the seed or bulb drying method of the present invention.
[0068]
First, as shown in FIG. 4 (a), the onion stem 2 which is obtained by cutting the lower end portion 2a and the seed bag 1 formed on the upper end of the stem 2 is cut off.
[0069]
Here, it is desirable to cut off the stem 2 so that the stem 2b does not protrude from the outer periphery of the seed bag 1. However, the stem 2 is cut along the line AA, and as shown in FIG. The seed bag 1 and the stem 2 are separated so that the length H2 of the stem 2b is shorter than the diameter H1 of the seed bag.
[0070]
Then, the plurality of seed bags 1, 1,... From which the stems 2 have been cut are stored in the containers 14, 14,.
[0071]
At this time, since the openings 14d, 14d,... Of the container 14 are formed in a size that does not allow the seed bag 1 to pass, the seed bags 1 are moved from the openings 14d, 14d,. Will not fall out.
[0072]
In this manner, if the stem 2 is cut off and only the seed bags 1, 1,... Are stored in the containers 14, 14,... And dried, the work of bundling the stems 2 can be omitted. Reduction can be achieved.
[0073]
Then, as shown in FIG. 1, the ring member 16d is engaged with the hook member 16c, and the free end 11d is pulled up to hold the non-breathable member 11 in a tilted state.
[0074]
Further, the containers 14, 14, ... in which the seed bags 1, 1, ... are stored are arranged in the air passage r3 defined by the air blower 13 by the non-permeable member 11.
[0075]
By arranging the containers 14, 14... That house only the seed bags 1 from which the stems 2 have been separated, no space is required for bundling and hanging the stems 2, and space can be saved. .
[0076]
Moreover, if the non-breathable member 11 defines the containers 14, 14,... And the blower 13, the air from the blower 13 does not directly act on the containers 14, 14,. . Can be reduced.
[0077]
.. Are arranged on the floor 15a in such a manner that the adjacent containers 14, 14,... Are connected in a substantially close contact state, and are continuously provided from the side wall 15b to the side wall 15d until they approach the side walls 15b, 15d.
[0078]
Further, the containers 14, 14,... Are stacked up to a position close to the non-breathable member 11, and arranged so as to close the air path r3.
[0079]
After being arranged in this way, the locking of the ring member 16d to the hook member 16c is released, and the non-breathable member 11 is returned to a horizontal state to cover the upper portions of the containers 14, 14,.
[0080]
Then, the inside air of the drying chamber 15 is dehumidified by the dehumidifier 12 and cooled to a temperature lower than the temperature at which the germination rate is reduced by cooling the inside air, that is, in the case of onion seeds, less than 35 ° C., preferably less than 33 ° C. , More preferably maintained at less than 30 ° C.
[0081]
If the humidity in the drying chamber R is reduced by dehumidifying the inside air of the drying chamber 15 in this manner, the drying speed of the seed bags 1, 1,... Can be stabilized, and the period required for drying can be kept constant. it can.
[0082]
Moreover, since the inside air of the drying chamber 15 is cooled to prevent a rise in the temperature of the seed bags 1, 1,..., A decrease in the germination rate of the seeds obtained from the seed bags 1, 1,. .
[0083]
The inside air thus dehumidified and cooled is blown by the blowers 13 to generate circulating winds W1, W2, and W3.
[0084]
That is, when the inside air is blown toward the side wall portion 15c by the blowers 13, 13,..., The non-breathable member 11 forms the air paths r1, r2, r3, r4 as shown in FIG. In addition, circulating winds W1, W2, and W3 circulating in the drying chamber 15 are generated from the air path r1 to the air path r2, the air path r2 to the air path r3, the air path r3 to the air path r4, the air path r4 to the air path r1, and the drying chamber 15. .
[0085]
At this time, the air path r4 located on the suction side of the blower 13 is in a negative pressure state, while the air paths r1 and r2 on the delivery side are in a positive pressure state, and a differential pressure is generated between r2 and r4.
[0086]
Are arranged in the air path r3 so as to close the air path r3, so that the circulating wind W2 uniformly passes through the containers 14, 14,. Outflow to r4.
[0087]
Moreover, as shown in FIG. 3, each container 14 has a plurality of openings 14d, 14d,... And can be ventilated, so that the seed bags 1, 1,. The circulating wind W2 can also be passed substantially uniformly around.
[0088]
Thus, if the circulating air W2 is uniformly passed through the containers 14, 14,..., The seed bags 1, 1,.
[0089]
Further, since the inside air is dehumidified by the dehumidifier, the period for drying the seed bags 1, 1,... Can be shortened.
[0090]
Accordingly, if the plant seed or bulb drying apparatus 10 of the present embodiment and the seed or bulb drying method using the drying apparatus 10 are used, the drying period of the seed bags 1, 1,. And the drying period can be kept constant.
[0091]
For this reason, it is possible to stabilize the shipping time of the onion seeds, and to achieve early shipping.
[0092]
Moreover, since the seed bags 1, 1,... Are stored in the containers 14, 14,... And dried, the operation of bundling and hanging the stems 2 can be omitted, and the number of work steps can be reduced. Thus, the production cost of onion seeds can be reduced.
[0093]
Also, since the containers 14, 14,... Storing only the seed bags 1 from which the stems 2 are separated are arranged, a space for bundling and suspending the stems 2 is not required, and the space can be saved.
[0094]
The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and even if there is a design change within the scope of the present invention, the present invention can be implemented. include.
[0095]
For example, the present embodiment is a method for drying onion seeds (seed bags) that can obtain a particularly remarkable effect as compared with a conventional drying method, but the seeds to be dried are not limited to onion seeds. It may be a plant seed or a bulb.
[0096]
Further, in the present embodiment, the dehumidifier has a function as a cooling means, and the inside air is cooled by the dehumidifier. However, the temperature outside the drying chamber is kept lower than the temperature at which the germination rate of seeds is reduced. If it is a place where it can lean, the cooling means is not necessarily required, and the cooling means may be provided separately from the dehumidifier.
[0097]
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the non-breathable member is configured to be rotatable by an elevating device, but the non-breathable member may be any as long as it defines the seed storage container and the air blowing means. A configuration may be adopted in which a non-breathable sheet is placed on the upper part of the storage container to define the air blowing means.
[0098]
Further, the seeds may be dried by providing the drying device of the present invention in the drying shed 3 used in the conventional hanging drying method.
[0099]
In this way, it is possible to prevent the drying chamber of the drying apparatus of the present invention from being directly irradiated with sunlight, and it is possible to suppress a rise in the temperature in the drying chamber and save power.
[0100]
【Example】
(Example 1)
The seed bags of onions were dried under the following conditions, and differences in effects based on differences in drying methods were compared and examined.
(1) Test period
July 9, 2002-July 16, 2002
(2) Equipment used
FIGS. 6 and 7 show the seed drying apparatus 110 used in the first embodiment.
[0101]
The seed drying apparatus 110 includes a tent-type drying chamber (storage) 115 as a drying chamber, a dehumidifier 112 with a cooling function as a dehumidifying unit and a cooling unit, a factory fan 113 as a blowing unit, and a ventilated seed storage. .. As containers. Here, two types of containers C, C..., A container C1 having a large opening ratio and a container C2 having a small opening ratio, were employed.
[0102]
The specifications of these equipment are shown below.
(1) Tent type drying room 115
2,700D x 1,800W x 2, 200H (mm)
(2) Dehumidifier 112 with cooling function
Power consumption: three-phase 200V 2.3kwh
Dehumidification capacity: 4.1 L / h
Cooling capacity: 6513W
(3) Factory fan 113
Power consumption: 1Φ100V 239W
(4) Container C
Container C1
Outer dimensions: 600D x 400W x 230H (mm)
Aperture ratio: about 60%
Container C2
Outer dimensions: 525D x 375W x 300H (mm)
Aperture ratio: about 40%
(3) Objects to be dried
Seeds bags of early varieties onions
Weight before drying: 751.05 kg (container C1: 79 pieces, container C2: 50 pieces)
Target field: Approximately 2,479 square meters (approximately 2.5 anti)
(4) Test method
(A) Embodiment 1 according to the present invention
{Circle around (1)} Harvesting step: Seed bags were cut off with about 30 cm of stem remaining.
(2) Stem cutting process: The stem was cut and only the seed bag was stored in the container C.
{Circle around (3)} Drying step: Container C was placed in a drying chamber and dried at 28 ° C. Here, the container C1 was arranged in the third row from the dehumidifier with cooling function 112 side (the left side in FIGS. 6 and 7). Further, the containers C1 and C2 are mixedly arranged in the fourth row, and the containers C2 are arranged in the fifth and sixth rows. Further, the containers C were stacked and arranged for each row.
{Circle around (4)} Sun-drying step: The dried seed bags were sun-dried for one day.
(5) Threshing process: Threshing with a threshing machine and collecting the first seed.
{Circle around (6)} Sun-drying process: The remaining shells were sun-dried for one day.
(7) Threshing process: Threshing was performed with a threshing machine, and a second seed was collected.
(8) Sorting step: Rice hulls and the like were removed.
[0103]
(B) Example relating to a conventional drying method (Comparative Example 1)
{Circle around (1)} Harvesting step: Seed bags were cut off with about 30 cm of stem remaining.
{Circle around (2)} Drying process: The stem was tied and hung in a hanging hut and allowed to dry naturally.
(3) Stem cutting step: Stems were cut from the seed bag.
{Circle around (4)} Sun-drying step: The dried seed bags were sun-dried for one day and hot-air dried using a kerosene heat source.
(5) Threshing process: Threshing with a threshing machine and collecting the first seed.
{Circle around (6)} Sun-drying process: The remaining shells were sun-dried for one day.
(7) Threshing process: Threshing was performed with a threshing machine, and a second seed was collected.
(8) Sorting step: Rice hulls and the like were removed.
(5) Result
(A) Table 1 shows changes in the mass and the water content of each of the containers C1 and C2 in Example 1.
[0104]
[Table 1]

[0105]
As shown in Table 1, when the drying speed and the drying unevenness of the seed bags stored in the containers C1 and C2 are compared, the drying speed of the seed bags stored in the container C1 having a large opening ratio is high and the drying speed is high. There was little unevenness.
[0106]
Of the seed bags stored in the container C2, a portion where drying was insufficient remained, especially for young varieties whose harvest time was slightly earlier.
[0107]
(B) The drying speed and the mass reduction rate of each of the containers C1 and C2 in Example 1 are shown in FIG.
[0108]
[Table 2]

[0109]
As shown in Table 2, during the first three days of drying, water evaporation was active and drying proceeded almost linearly, but from the fourth day, water evaporation became slow. According to the measurement on the 6th day, the mass loss rate was 58% for container C1 and 53.8% for container C2, and the necessary drying was almost completed. Therefore, it was set to stop the dehumidification when the relative humidity in the refrigerator became 60%, and further dried for one day, and the total number of drying days was 7 days.
[0110]
In addition, the drying days of the comparative example were 10 days to 12 days.
[0111]
By container, the seed bags stored in the container C1 having a large opening ratio as compared to the container C2 dries quickly about one day, and the final mass reduction rates are 61.6% for the container C1 and 57.2 for the container C2. %Met.
[0112]
(C) The change over time of the drying speed and drying unevenness of the seed bag due to the difference in the vertical position where the container C is arranged is shown in FIGS. 9 shows the measurement results for the container C1, and FIG. 10 shows the measurement results for the seed bags stored in the container C2. Further, the first stage is set in order from the uppermost stage, and the second stage, the third stage,.
[0113]
[Table 3]

[0114]
As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the seed bags stored in the uppermost and lowermost containers C, which are well hit by the wind, dry quickly, and are stored in the container C located between the uppermost and lowermost stages. The seed bags tended to dry slowly.
[0115]
The third and fourth days were peaks at which uneven drying occurred, and as drying progressed, drying became uniform.
[0116]
In the comparison for each container C, the seed bags stored in the container C1 had less drying unevenness and were dried more uniformly.
[0117]
(D) FIG. 11 and Table 4 show the change over time in the drying speed and drying unevenness of the seed bag depending on the difference in the horizontal position where the container C is arranged.
[0118]
[Table 4]

[0119]
As shown in FIG. 11 and Table 4, the seed bags stored in the containers C1 in the third row from the dehumidifier 112 with the cooling function, which are disadvantageous in the conditions for drying, dried quickly and had less uneven drying. . Subsequently, drying in the fourth row of containers C in which the containers C1 and C2 coexist was quickly dried, and drying unevenness was small. The drying of the seed bags stored in the containers C2 arranged in the fifth and sixth rows was slow, and the differences in the drying speed and drying unevenness of the seed bags based on the difference in the opening ratio of the containers C appeared remarkably.
[0120]
(E) Changes over time in temperature and humidity are shown in FIG. Table 5 shows the maximum, minimum, average temperature and humidity for each day.
[0121]
[Table 5]

[0122]
As shown in FIG. 12, the temperature in the tent type drying chamber 115 changed from 27 ° C. to 30 ° C. with respect to the setting of 28 ° C.
[0123]
Further, the humidity in the tent type drying chamber 115 was reduced to less than 70% immediately after the start of drying, and drying was possible without stuffiness, and the minimum humidity was less than 45%.
[0124]
The increase in humidity from the afternoon of July 15 was a result of humidity control (dehumidification was OFF at 60% or less), and no worried temperature increase occurred.
[0125]
FIG. 13 shows (f) hourly power consumption. Table 6 shows the power consumption by day.
[0126]
[Table 6]

[0127]
As shown in FIG. 13 and Table 6, the power consumption of the dehumidifier with cooling function 112 is 2.39 kWh at the time of high humidity immediately after the container C is placed in the tent type drying chamber 115 at the maximum operation. Then, 2.24 kWh on the second day, 2.25 kWh on the third day, 2.21 kWh on the fourth day, 2.17 kWh on the fifth day, 1.96 kWh on the sixth day when the humidity adjustment was started, and the seventh day Decreased to 1.70 kWh with a decrease in humidity, and was lower than the rating (2.3 kWh) of the dehumidifier 112 with a cooling function.
[0128]
Note that the accumulated power consumption was 359.1 kW.
[0129]
(Example 2)
(1) Test period
July 22, 2002-July 28, 2002
(2) Equipment used
In the second embodiment, using the seed drying device 110 used in the first embodiment, the upper surface of the uppermost container C is further subjected to a differential pressure sheet 111 (in FIG. And the seeds were dried.
[0130]
In the second embodiment, only the container C1 having an opening ratio of 60% was used as the container C.
(3) Objects to be dried
Seed bags of late varieties onions
Weight before drying: 597.39 kg (container C1: 140)
Target field: about 2,182 square meters (about 2.2 counters)
(4) Test method
The seed bag was dried in the same process as in Example 1. However, drying was started by arranging 68 containers C1 on July 22 and 72 containers on July 23 on different days.
[0131]
Further, as Comparative Example 2, a seed bag of late variety, onion, was dried in the same process as Comparative Example 1.
(5) Result
(A) Table 7 shows the mass and moisture content of the seed bag stored in the container C1.
[0132]
[Table 7]

[0133]
The wind rectification effect of the differential pressure sheet 111 appeared, the drying speed of the seed bag was high, the drying unevenness was improved, and the threshing condition was good.
[0134]
(B) The drying speed and mass reduction rate of the seed bag are shown in FIG.
[0135]
[Table 8]

[0136]
As shown in FIG. 14 and Table 8, the seed bag of the container C1 placed on July 22 had a weight loss rate of 62.4% in 5 days and dried to 66.2% on the 6th day. did it.
[0137]
In addition, the seed bag of the container C1 placed on July 23 dried slightly slower than the seed bag of the container C1 placed on July 22, but the mass loss rate was reduced to 60.0% by drying for 5 days. In all cases, the drying was completed 1-2 days earlier than the seed bags of the container C1 of the early varieties (the mass loss rate on the fifth day was 52.8%). This is considered to be due to the difference in the amount of the seed bags arranged in the tent type drying chamber 115 and the rectifying effect of the differential pressure sheet 111. Moreover, the threshing condition after finishing the day and day was also good.
[0138]
In the conventional drying method, drying was performed for 10 days, and warm air drying was used for finish drying because the shipping date was approaching.
[0139]
(C) FIG. 15, FIG. 16, and Table 9 show the change over time in the drying speed and drying unevenness of the seed bag due to the difference in the vertical position where the container C is arranged. FIG. 15 shows the measurement results for the seed bag stored in the container C1 arranged on July 22, and FIG. 16 shows the measurement results for the seed bag stored in the container C1 arranged on July 23. Further, the first stage is set in order from the uppermost stage, and the second stage, the third stage,.
[0140]
[Table 9]

[0141]
As shown in FIG. 15 and Table 9, with regard to the container C1 placed on July 23, the seed bags stored in the lowermost container C1 dried slightly faster, but the upper five tiers were almost dry. Drying progressed evenly. As shown in FIG. 16, a similar tendency was exhibited for the seed bags stored in the container C1 arranged on July 23.
[0142]
(D) FIG. 17 and Table 10 show the change over time in the drying speed and drying unevenness of the seed bag due to the difference in the horizontal position where the container C is arranged.
[0143]
[Table 10]

[0144]
Regarding the seed bags stored in the container C1 arranged on July 22, the difference in the horizontal position where the container C1 was arranged caused a slight difference in the drying speed in the middle of drying. Has almost disappeared. The seed bags stored in the container C1 arranged on July 23 tended to dry quickly from the entrance side (the opposite side of the dehumidifier 112 with a cooling function).
[0145]
(E) Changes over time in temperature and humidity are shown in FIG. In Example 2, the temperature and humidity outside the tent type drying chamber 115 were also measured. Table 11 shows the maximum, minimum, average temperature and humidity for each day.
[0146]
[Table 11]

[0147]
As shown in FIG. 18, the temperature in the tent-type drying chamber 115 was increased by about 2 ° C. from the setting of 28 ° C. due to a large amount of heat entering from the tent cloth as the outside air temperature rose.
[0148]
The humidity in the tent-type drying chamber 115 was reduced from 70% at the beginning to less than 50% on the fifth day, and the seed bags could be dried smoothly. From the afternoon of July 27, the humidity was adjusted to prevent overdrying.
[0149]
(F) FIG. 19 shows the hourly power consumption. Table 12 shows the power consumption by day.
[0150]
[Table 12]

[0151]
As shown in FIG. 19 and Table 12, the power consumption of the dehumidifier with cooling function 112 is 2.10 kWh on average, 2.20 kWh at peak, and the cumulative power consumption for 6 days is 309.1 kW. Was.
[0152]
(G) The germination rates of Examples 1 and 2 and Comparative Examples 1 and 2 are shown in Table 13. The germination rate was investigated for the purpose of confirming the seed quality depending on the drying method.
[0153]
In addition, there is a standard in the investigation conditions. Two filter papers are laid on a petri dish, 4 mL of water is added, 100 seeds are sown, the container with the lid closed is placed in a constant temperature room at 20 ° C. The germination rate is read on the 12th day.
[0154]
[Table 13]

[0155]
As shown in Table 13, the germination rate of Example 1 was higher than that of Comparative Example 1, and the germination rate of Example 2 was higher than that of Comparative Example 2.
[0156]
Therefore, in Examples 1 and 2, it was found that there was no problem in quality in comparison with Comparative Examples 1 and 2 using the conventional hanging and drying method.
[0157]
Table 14 summarizes the main results of the above.
[0158]
[Table 14]

[0159]
(Discussion)
(1) Evaluation
According to Examples 1 and 2, the following evaluation was obtained in the drying method of the present invention as compared with the conventional hanging drying method.
(A) The drying time can be shortened for 2 to 5 days.
(B) In a field area of about 11,900 square meters (about one town and two villages), according to the conventional hanging and drying method, the number of workers from harvesting onion seed bags to starting drying is about 90. With the drying method using the seed drying apparatus of the present invention, it is considered that the number of workers can be reduced by about 1/3 compared to the conventional method. Furthermore, in the conventional hanging and drying method, since cutting of the stem before the sun drying finish requires six roles, the number of working personnel can be reduced by about 35 to 40 in total.
(C) In the present invention, since only the seed bags are harvested, transportation after the harvest is facilitated.
(D) In the present invention, it is not necessary to open and close the sheet to prevent blowing during rainfall, and there is no fear of germination caused by rain blowing.
(E) The area required for drying can be reduced to 1/3, and the empty space can be used effectively. Furthermore, in the case of newly establishing a drying station, construction costs can be reduced.
(F) Since even a small number of young chicks can be dried, the harvest time is extended, and the schedule can be adjusted.
(G) Since the stem pieces left in the seed bag without being cut are sufficiently dry, threshing is easy.
[0160]
(2) Design of practical system
(A) Design specifications
(1) Processing volume
Field area: approx. 5,950 square meters (approx. 6 counters)
Storage mass 300kg / 991.7m2 (about 1 counter) x about 5,950m2 (about 6 counter) = about 1,800kg
▲ 2 ▼ Container
External dimensions 600W × 400D × 230H
Storage mass 4.5kg / piece
Quantity 1,800kg / 4.5kg = 400 pieces
(3) Mass reduction rate
62%
▲ 4 ▼ Dry days
6th
▲ 5 ▼ Required dehumidification amount
1,800 kg x 0.62 = 1,116 kg
1,116 kg / (24 h × 6 days) = 7.75 kg / h
(B) System design and specifications
Table 15 shows an example of suitable specifications in the seed drying apparatus 10 of the present invention.
[0161]
[Table 15]

[0162]
(C) Running cost calculation
(1) Contract type
Low voltage power
▲ 2 ▼ Charge unit price
Basic unit price 1,015 yen / kW / month (half price for non-use months)
Electricity unit price 11.15 yen / kWh (summer rate applicable unit price)
(3) Power consumption
9.3 kWh
(4) Contract power
9kW
▲ 5 ▼ Running cost
Basic charge
9kW x 1,015 yen x January = 9,135 yen (month of use)
9kW x 1,015 yen x November x 0.5 = 41,108 yen (unused month)
Electricity charge
9.3kWh x 24h x 6 days x 11.15 yen = 14,932 yen
Total 64, 275 yen / year
(D) Economic effects
The economics of a field area of about 12,000 square meters (about one town and two houses) were examined.
{Circle around (1)} Special costs required for the seed drying apparatus of the present invention
Initial cost: 1,650,000 yen / 6,000 m3 x 2 units = 3,300,000 yen
Running cost: 64,275 yen / 6,000 m3 x 2 = 128,550 yen / year
(2) Table 16 shows a comparison between the labor cost required for the conventional hanging and drying method and the labor cost required for the onion seed drying method of the present invention. The labor cost was calculated as 1,500 yen / hour.
[0163]
[Table 16]

[0164]
As shown in Table 16, the labor cost that could be reduced from the conventional hanging and drying method was 406,800 yen / year, and the results of the trial calculation of the practical system and the results of Example 1 were almost the same. In addition, in the case of newly constructing a drying shed by the conventional hanging drying method, about 9 million yen is required for a field area of about 12,000 square meters (about 120 a), and the seed drying apparatus of the present invention was introduced. In this case, the construction cost will be reduced to less than half by reducing the building area, and the construction cost will exceed the equipment cost.
[0165]
(Summary)
Instead of the conventional hanging drying method, in which onion seeds are hung in a drying hut and air dried, using a dehumidifier, early varieties start drying from July 9 and late varieties start drying from July 22. did.
[0166]
In the conventional hanging and drying method, the stems are tied and hung. In the present invention, only the seed bags are stored in a container, stacked in a drying chamber, and dried.
[0167]
It was found that drying efficiency of a container having a large opening ratio was good, drying unevenness could be eliminated by applying a differential pressure sheet to the upper portion of the stacked containers, and the drying days were 2 to 5 days shorter than the conventional method, and drying could be performed in 6 days.
[0168]
In the investigation of the germination rate, the early varieties were 100% and the late varieties were good at 97%, and there was no problem with the quality. The drying method using the seed drying apparatus of the present invention was more effective than the conventional hanging drying method. The advantageous effect was obtained.
[0169]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the method for drying onion seeds according to claim 1, the seed storage container is arranged in the air passage, and the circulating wind is passed through the seed storage container to allow the seeds to pass through. Alternatively, since the bulbs are dried, the seed storage containers can be stacked and arranged, so that the drying space can be reduced.
[0170]
And since the inside air is dehumidified, the drying period of the seed or the bulb can be kept constant.
[0171]
Furthermore, since the seed storage container is arranged in the airflow path of the circulating wind such that the circulating air passes uniformly in the seed storage container, the seeds or the bulbs can be dried uniformly, and the drying period Can be shortened.
[0172]
According to the invention described in claim 2, the inside air is cooled to a lower temperature than a temperature at which the germination rate of the seed or the bulb is reduced. Alternatively, a decrease in the germination rate of the bulb can be suppressed.
[0173]
According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the dehumidifying unit for dehumidifying the inside air of the drying chamber is provided, the drying chamber can be dehumidified, and the drying period of the seeds or the bulbs is reduced. It can be kept almost constant.
[0174]
And since it is arrange | positioned in the said wind path and has the air-permeable seed storage container which stores the said seed or the said bulb, the said circulating air can act on the said seed storage container, and the said seed or the said The bulb drying period can be shortened.
[0175]
Furthermore, since the seed storage containers are arranged in the air path, the seed storage containers can be stacked and arranged, and the drying space can be reduced.
[0176]
According to the invention described in claim 4, since the cooling means for cooling the inside air is provided, even if the temperature outside the drying chamber rises, the inside air of the drying chamber is germinated with the seeds or bulbs. The temperature can be kept lower than the temperature at which the rate of germination decreases, and a decrease in the rate of germination can be suppressed.
[0177]
According to the invention described in claim 5, since the non-breathable member defines the seed storage container and the blowing means, the air from the blowing means directly acts on the seed storage container. Without this, it is possible to prevent the drying of the seed or the bulb from becoming uneven.
[0178]
According to the invention as set forth in claim 6, the seed storage container is arranged so that the circulating wind uniformly passes through the seed storage container. The seed or the bulb can be dried uniformly without causing individual differences by passing through the container.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an onion seed drying apparatus of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of the onion seed drying device of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a seed storage container included in the onion seed drying device of the present invention.
FIGS. 4A and 4B are an explanatory view showing a cutting position of a stem in the onion seed drying method of the present invention, and a side view of a seed bag.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a hanging and drying method used for drying onion seeds in the related art.
FIG. 6 is a schematic side view of an apparatus for drying plant seeds or bulbs used in Examples, and a two-dot chain line indicates a differential pressure sheet as an air path forming means used in Example 2.
FIG. 7 is a schematic top view of a plant seed or bulb drying apparatus used in Example, and a two-dot chain line indicates a differential pressure sheet as an air path forming means used in Example 2.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a drying rate and a mass reduction rate of each of the containers C1 and C2 in Example 1.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a change over time of a drying speed and drying unevenness of a seed bag (seed) due to a difference in a vertical position where a container C1 (a container having a large opening ratio) is arranged in Example 1.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a temporal change of a drying speed and drying unevenness of a seed bag (seed) according to a difference in a vertical position where a container C2 (a container having a small opening ratio) is arranged in Example 1.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a change over time of a drying speed and drying unevenness of a seed bag due to a difference in a horizontal position where a container C is arranged in Example 1.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing changes over time in temperature and humidity in Example 1.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating hourly power consumption in the first embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a drying rate and a mass reduction rate of a seed bag in Example 2.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the change over time in the drying speed and drying unevenness of the seed bag stored in the container C1 in Example 2, and shows the seed bag stored in the container C1 arranged on July 22. It is a measurement result of.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing the change over time in the drying speed and drying unevenness of the seed bag stored in the container C1 in Example 2, and shows the seed bag stored in the container C1 arranged on July 23. It is a measurement result of.
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a change over time in a drying speed and drying unevenness of a seed bag due to a difference in a horizontal position where a container C is arranged in Example 2.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing changes over time in temperature and humidity in Example 2.
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating hourly power consumption in the second embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 onion seed bag (plant seed or bulb)
2 stems
10 Onion seed drying equipment (plant seed or bulb drying equipment)
11 Non-breathable members (airway forming means)
12 Dehumidifier (dehumidifying means, cooling means)
13 Blower (blower means)
14 containers (seed storage containers)
R drying room
r1, r2, r3, r4 wind path
W1, W2, W3 circulating wind

Claims (6)

Plant seeds or bulbs are stored in a breathable seed storage container,
Dehumidifies the inside air of a drying room that is kept in a closed state and can circulate inside air
Blowing the dehumidified inside air to generate a circulating wind,
A seed or a bulb of a plant, wherein the seed storage container is disposed in the air path of the circulation wind so that the circulating wind uniformly passes through the seed storage container, and the seed or the bulb is dried. Drying method. The method for drying plant seeds or bulbs according to claim 1, wherein the inside air is cooled to a lower temperature than the temperature at which the germination rate of the seeds or bulbs decreases. A drying room kept in a sealed state,
Dehumidifying means for dehumidifying the inside air of the drying chamber,
Air path forming means for forming an air path for circulating the inside air,
Blowing means for blowing the inside air to generate a circulating wind,
An air-permeable seed storage container that is disposed in the air path and stores plant seeds or bulbs. 4. The apparatus for drying plant seeds or bulbs according to claim 3, further comprising a cooling unit that cools the inside air. 5. The apparatus for drying plant seeds or bulbs according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the air path forming means is a non-breathable member that defines the seed storage container and the air blowing means. The said seed storage container is arrange | positioned so that the said circulating wind may uniformly pass through the inside of this seed storage container, The drying of the seed or bulb of the plant of any one of Claims 3 to 5 characterized by the above-mentioned. apparatus.

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