JP2012125384A - Rice cooker - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a rice cooker capable of suppressing propagation of various germs in an inner pot, and preventing generation of foul odor.SOLUTION: An ion generator 24 and a shutter 25 are provided at a lid body 2 openably/closably mounted to the upper part of a body 1. The rice cooker includes the inner pot 10 held in the body 1 so that the inner pot can be removed therefrom, temperature sensors 34 and 35 detecting the temperature of the inner pot 10, and heating sections 31, 32, and 33 heating the inner pot 10.

Description

  The present invention relates to a rice cooker.

  Conventionally, as a rice cooker, there exists what was described in Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 10-155562 (patent document 1).

  This rice cooker includes reserved rice cooking means for automatically starting rice cooking after the set time has elapsed and heat insulation means for keeping the rice warm, thereby making reservation rice cooking and heat insulation possible.

  By the way, in recent years, a single person or the like may take a long time (more than one day) for reserved cooking, and the planned return time may be changed due to a sudden business trip instruction or the like.

  In that case, as the reservation time and heat retention time become longer than previously expected, various germs propagate in the inner pot, and the spoilage due to the propagation of various germs progresses and a spoilage odor occurs. There is a problem that it becomes impossible to eat rice (cooked food) in the pot. The present inventor has discovered such a new problem.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-155562

  Then, the subject of this invention is providing the rice cooker which can suppress generation | occurrence | production of the germs in an inner pot, and can prevent generation | occurrence | production of a rotten odor.

In order to solve the above problems, the rice cooker of this invention is
The body,
A lid that is attached to the upper part of the main body so as to be freely opened and closed, and can close the upper opening of the main body,
An inner pot stored in the main body so as to be removable,
A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the inner pot;
A heating unit for heating the inner pot;
An ion generator for discharging ions is provided in the inner pot.

  According to the said structure, ion is discharge | released in an inner pot from an ion generator. Since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator, the propagation of the germs in the inner pot can be suppressed.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one Embodiment, the said ion generator is operated during the water immersion process or the heat retention process.

  According to the said embodiment, the said ion generator is operated during a water immersion process and a heat retention process, and ion is discharge | released in an inner pot from an ion generator. Since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator, the propagation of the germs in the inner pot is suppressed during the water immersion process and the heat retaining process. Therefore, no spoilage odor due to the propagation of various germs occurs during the water immersion process and the heat retention process, and the long water immersion process and the heat retention process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one embodiment, the germination brown rice control part which operates the said ion generator at the time of the germination process for creating germination brown rice, and the temperature of the said inner pot become a target temperature at the time of a rice cooking process The rice cooker control part which controls is provided.

  According to the above embodiment, during the germination step, the ion generator is operated by the germination brown rice control unit, and ions are released from the ion generator into the inner pot. The germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator.

  When making germinated brown rice, in conventional rice cookers, germination is performed by immersing brown rice in water at 28-34 ° C in the inner pot for 3-6 hours, opening and closing the rotten odor generated during this germination process It was discharged into the room from the valve. For this reason, in the conventional rice cooker, since the rotten odor peculiar to a germination process is discharged | emitted from the on-off valve to the room | chamber interior, the room | chamber (kitchen) might be filled with the unpleasant odor.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator, no spoiled odor is generated, and the water in the inner pot is not produced during the germination process. No need to replace. Therefore, germination of brown rice and cooking rice can be performed without replacing water.

  In the conventional rice cooker, there is a rice germ that says that brown rice can be germinated in 3 to 6 hours in the germination process. It may take such a case. Therefore, in order to remove the rotten odor (due to the propagation of miscellaneous bacteria) of the lye that occurs during germination of brown rice, it is necessary to replace water about every 2 to 3 hours. In conventional rice cookers, germination and cooking of brown rice In fact, it is impossible to do everything automatically and continuously without bothering human hands.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one Embodiment, the said germination brown rice control part controls the said heating part in the said germination process so that the temperature of the said inner pot becomes germination preset temperature based on the output of the said temperature sensor. .

  According to the above embodiment, since the heating unit is controlled by the germination brown rice control unit so that the temperature of the inner pot during the germination step becomes the germination setting temperature, the germination setting for germinating the brown rice in the inner pot quickly and completely. Can keep the temperature in the inner pot to the temperature.

  Moreover, the rice cooker of one Embodiment is equipped with the opening / closing apparatus which opens and closes between the exit of the said ion generator, and the inside of the said inner pot.

  According to the above embodiment, since the opening / closing device can open and close the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot, when releasing ions, the opening / closing device opens the space between the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot. , Ions can be released into the inner pot. When ions are not released, the ion generator can be blocked from the inside pan by the switchgear so that steam or the like does not go to the ion generator, thereby increasing the durability of the ion generator.

Moreover, in the rice cooker of one embodiment, it comprises an opening and closing device that opens and closes between the outlet of the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot,
The germination brown rice control unit controls the opening / closing device to be opened or closed during the germination step.

  According to the above embodiment, the germinated brown rice control unit can control the ion generator and the switching device during the germination process and operate the ion generator and the switching device in conjunction with each other. Only when the switchgear can be opened to release ions into the inner pot, and the ion generator does not generate ions, close the switchgear so that it is not exposed to steam such as steam during the rice cooking process. it can.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one Embodiment, the said control apparatus operate | moves the said germination brown rice control part and the said rice cooking control part sequentially sequentially so that the said germination process and the said rice cooking process may be performed sequentially sequentially. A continuous control unit.

  According to the above embodiment, the presence of the ion generator eliminates the need to change the water in the inner pot when germinating brown rice, and the continuous control unit includes the germination brown rice control unit and the rice cooking control unit. By sequentially operating, the germination process and the rice cooking process can be performed continuously without bothering human hands, and the process from the germination process to the rice cooking process can be performed automatically and continuously.

Further, in the cooker of the embodiment, the ion ^{_{generator, H + (H 2 O)}} m (m is an arbitrary natural number) and a positive ion ^{_{is, O 2 - (H 2 O}} ) n (n is an arbitrary And negative ions that are natural numbers).

According to the embodiment, from the ion generator, plasma cluster ions (registered trademark No. 4687401), that is, positive ions that are H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m (m is an arbitrary natural number), and O ₂ ⁻ (H Negative ions that are ₂ O) _n (n is an arbitrary natural number) are released. The active species produced when these positive ions and negative ions are generated at the same time can effectively remove the germs in the inner pot, so that in the germination process, the spoilage odor generated during germination of brown rice is reduced. It can be completely removed.

  In one embodiment, the ion generator is provided in the lid.

  According to the said embodiment, since the said ion generator is provided in the cover body, the ion from an ion generator can be discharge | released in an inner pot by the shortest distance, without being disturbed by an inner pot.

  As apparent from the above, according to the rice cooker of the present invention, since the ion generator for releasing ions is provided in the inner pot, it is possible to suppress the propagation of various germs in the inner pot and prevent the generation of spoiled odor.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a rice cooker according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rice cooker with its lid opened. FIG. 3 is a vertical end view of the rice cooker as seen from line III-III in FIG. FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the rice cooker. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the rice cooker. FIG. 6 shows sensory test data of the rice cooker.

  Hereinafter, the rice cooker of this invention is demonstrated in detail by embodiment of illustration.

  The rice cooker of this embodiment is provided with the main body 1 and the cover body 2 attached to the upper part of this main body 1 so that opening and closing is possible, as shown in FIG. The main body 1 is connected to the display operation section 3 provided on the front side, the hook button 4 provided on the front side and the upper side, the main body handle 5 attached to the rear side so as to be rotatable, and the rear side and the lower side. And a power cord 6. The display operation unit 3 has a liquid crystal display and a plurality of operation buttons. The lid body 2 is closed in a state where it is releasably locked to a latch mechanism (not shown) provided in the main body 1. Further, a steam port 2 a is provided on the rear surface side of the lid 2.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rice cooker with the lid 2 opened.

  The lid body 2 has an outer lid 21 and an inner lid 22 as shown in FIG. The lid body 2 is attached to the upper side and the rear surface side of the main body 1 and is rotatable about a hinge shaft (not shown).

  Moreover, the inner pot 10 is accommodated in the main body 1 so as to be removable. This inner pot 10 accommodates an object to be heated (rice, water, etc.). The upper end of the inner pot 10 is open, and the shape of the opening as viewed from above is substantially circular. Further, an annular flange portion 10 a is provided on the edge of the opening at the upper end of the inner pot 10. And the inner pot handle 11, 11 made of heat-resistant resin is attached to the flange portion 10a of the inner pot 10 so as to face each other in the radial direction.

  In addition, at two locations on the upper surface of the main body 1, recesses 12a (only one is shown in FIG. 2) are provided so as to face each other. The position of the inner pot 10 relative to the main body 1 is determined by fitting the inner pot handles 11, 11 of the inner pot 10 into the recesses 12 a, 12 a.

  FIG. 3 is a vertical end view of the rice cooker as seen from line III-III in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the main body 1 includes an outer case 12 and an inner case 13 that is disposed in the outer case 12 and in which the inner pot 10 is accommodated. The inner case 13 is formed of a material having heat resistance and electrical insulation.

  Moreover, the said inner pot 10 is substantially circular shape in planar view, and has the flange part 10a and the trunk | drum part 10b. The body portion 10b extends vertically downward from the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 10a, inclines from the lower end of the vertical portion toward the center, and continues to the annular bottom.

  An induction coil 31 for inductively heating the inner pot 10 is disposed below the inner case 13 of the main body 1. The induction coil 31 is bonded to the inner case 13 with a heat-resistant resin or the like. Further, a ferrite member 39 and the like for preventing leakage magnetic flux of the induction coil 31 are disposed below the induction coil 31. In the above rice cooker, the induction coil 31 is used as a heating source, but the heating source may be, for example, an electric heater or a gas fire.

  A bottom temperature sensor 34 (shown in FIG. 4) is disposed below the inner case 13. The bottom temperature sensor 34 abuts on the inner pot 10 stored in the inner case 13 and detects the temperature of the inner pot 10.

  A side heater 32 is disposed in the main body 1. The side heater 32 is provided along the circumferential direction so as to surround the upper side portion of the inner case 13.

  When the inner pot 10 is stored in the inner case 13, the annular heat-resistant rubber lower packing 26 attached to the upper end surface of the inner case 13 is in close contact with the lower surface of the flange portion 10 a of the inner pot 10 so as to be able to contact and separate. The space between the inner pot 10 and the inner case 13 is sealed.

  The lid body 2 includes an outer lid 21 that is rotatably supported by the main body 1 and an inner lid 22 that is attached to a side of the outer lid 21 that faces the inner pot 10.

  The inner lid 22 has a substantially circular shape that is slightly smaller than the outer dimensions including the flange portion 10a of the inner pot 10 in plan view. An annular heat-resistant rubber upper packing 23 is detachably attached to the outer periphery of the inner lid 22. When the lid 2 is closed, the upper packing 23 is in close contact with the upper surface of the flange portion 10a of the inner pot 10 so as to be able to contact and separate, and seals between the inner pot 10 and the inner lid 22.

  An ion generator 24 and an ion storage chamber 28 having a substantially rectangular cross section are provided on the left surface side (the left side in FIG. 3) of the outer lid 21 in the lid body 2. The ion generator 24 is attached in a state where an end portion having an emission port for emitting ions penetrates the left side surface of the ion storage chamber 28. In addition, an ion supply port 20 communicating with the inside of the ion storage chamber 28 and the inside of the inner pot 10 opens at the lower surface of the ion storage chamber 28. Further, a shutter 25 as an example of an opening / closing device that opens and closes the ion supply port 20 is provided in the ion storage chamber 28. The shutter 25 is attached to the lower part of the right side surface of the ion storage chamber 28.

The ion generator 24 is a plasma cluster (registered trademark No. 4582023) (Japanese Patent No. 3680121), H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m (m is an arbitrary natural number), O ₂ ⁻ ( H ₂ O) _n (n is an arbitrary natural number) and negative ions are released. These ions (referred to as plasma cluster ions) adhere to the surface of airborne bacteria in the air and chemically react to generate H ₂ O ₂ or .OH (hydroxyl radical) as an active species. Since H ₂ O ₂ or .OH shows extremely strong activity, it can be inactivated and removed by surrounding mold and bacteria that are airborne bacteria. Hereinafter, plasma cluster ions are simply referred to as ions.

  The ions released from the ion generator 24 are first released into the ion storage chamber 28. Then, by opening the shutter 25, the ion supply port 20 is opened, and the inside of the ion storage chamber 28 communicates with the inside of the inner pot 10, and ions are released from the ion supply port 20 into the inner pot 10. .

  Since the ion generator 24 is provided on the lid 2, ions from the ion generator 24 can be released into the inner pot 10 at the shortest distance without being obstructed by the inner pot 10.

  A lid heater 33 and a lid temperature sensor 35 (shown in FIG. 4) are disposed in the lid body 2. The lid heater 33 is provided on the side facing the inner pan 10 of the outer lid 21 so as to contact the inner lid 22.

  FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the rice cooker.

  The control device 30 arranged in the main body 1 is composed of a microcomputer and an input / output circuit and the like, as shown in FIG. 4, an operation signal from the display operation unit 3, a water immersion control unit 36, a germination brown rice control unit 37, rice cooking. Based on a control signal from the control unit 38, the continuous control unit 41, the heat retention control unit 42, a signal from the bottom temperature sensor 34, the lid temperature sensor 35, or the like, the display operation unit 3, the inundation control unit 36, the germination brown rice control Control unit 37, rice cooking control unit 38, continuous control unit 41, heat insulation control unit 42, induction coil 31, side heater 32, heater duct 16, lid heater 33, ion generator 24, and shutter 25 are controlled.

  In the rice cooker having the above-described configuration, the ion generator 24 and the shutter 25 are controlled by the water immersion control unit 36 during the water immersion process. The soaking process refers to a stage in which rice is soaked in water before cooking in the inner pot 10 and does not include a germination process in which brown rice is soaked in water for germination.

  When the shutter 25 is opened, the ion supply port 20 is opened. The ions released from the ion generator 24 are discharged into the inner pot 10 from the ion supply port 20 into the inner pot 10. At this time, the emission rate of ions emitted from the ion generator 24 can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3.

  Since the germs in the inner pot 10 are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator 24, the propagation of the germs in the inner pot 10 is suppressed during the water immersion process. Therefore, no spoilage odor due to the propagation of germs occurs during the water immersion process, and the long water immersion process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene. In particular, even in summer when the temperature is high and germs are easy to propagate, a long water immersion process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene. In addition, when cooking not only rice but also various ingredients such as cooked rice in the inner pot 10, the rotting odor caused by the propagation of various bacteria does not occur during the inundation process, and it takes a long time. The water immersion process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene.

  Further, during the heat insulation process, the ion generator 24, the shutter 25, the side heater 32, and the lid heater 33 are controlled by the heat insulation control unit 42.

  When the shutter 25 is opened, the ion supply port 20 is opened. The inner pot 10 is heated by the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 so that the ions released from the ion generator 24 are released into the inner pot 10 from the ion supply port 20 and the inner pot 10 is kept at the temperature setting temperature. 10 is heated. At this time, the emission ratio of the ions emitted from the ion generator 24 and the heat retention set temperature can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3.

  In addition, it is preferable that the shutter 25 is opened only when it is necessary for ion emission during the heat retaining step. The durability of the ion generator 24 can be increased by preventing steam or the like of the rice being kept warm from going to the ion generator 24.

  At the time of the heat retaining step, ions are released from the ion generator 24 to decompose and remove germs, and the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 raise the temperature of the inner pot 10 to 70 to 75 ° C. Preventing breeding. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the progress of the rotting of the rice and maintain a tasty rice for a long time. Therefore, it is possible to keep the cooked rice heated for a long time.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the rice cooker. The continuous control process of the germination process and the rice cooking process in the rice cooker of the said structure of this invention is demonstrated using FIG.

  First, in step S1, the continuous control part 41 operates the germination brown rice control part 37, starts a germination process, and progresses to step S2.

  In step S <b> 2, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 detects the temperature of the inner pot 10 based on signals from the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35, and the inner pot detected by the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35. It is determined whether or not the temperature of 10 is the germination set temperature. The germination set temperature is the temperature of the water in the inner pot 10 set for germinating brown rice, and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel 3 before starting rice cooking. When the temperature of the inner pot 10 detected by the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35 has reached a predetermined germination set temperature, the process proceeds to step S3.

  On the other hand, when the temperature of the inner pot 10 detected by the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35 has not reached the germination set temperature, the process proceeds to step S5, and the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 are turned on. The inner pot 10 is heated. And it returns to step 2 and the temperature of the inner pot 10 is detected again, and it is judged whether the temperature of the inner pot 10 has reached the germination set temperature. Thus, the germination brown rice control unit 37 continues to turn on the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 until the temperature of the inner pot 10 reaches the germination set temperature.

  The germination set temperature is preferably 28 to 35 degrees, more preferably 30 to 34 degrees, and still more preferably about 32 degrees.

  In step S3, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 turns off the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33, and proceeds to step S4.

  In step S4, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 determines whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time. The germination setting time is a time for immersing brown rice set to germinate brown rice in water, and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3 before starting rice cooking. If the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time, the process proceeds to step S9.

  On the other hand, if the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has not reached the germination set time, the process returns to step S2. And the germination brown rice control part 37 turns on and turns off the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 until the elapsed time from the start of the germination process reaches the germination set time, Continue to maintain temperature at germination set temperature.

  In order to completely germinate all the brown rice, it may take about one day after being immersed in water at approximately 32 degrees, and therefore it is preferable that the germination setting time can be set for at least 24 hours.

  Moreover, when the germination brown rice control part 37 starts a germination process by step S1, it starts control of the ion generator 24 simultaneously with progressing to step S2. At this time, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 detects the ion release setting and proceeds to step S6. The ion release setting is a setting of the release ratio of ions released into the inner pot 10 and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3 before starting rice cooking. This rice cooker is set to discharge ions at a duty ratio of 50/60 seconds.

  In step S6, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 controls the ion generator 24 and the shutter 25 to release ions from the ion generator 24 into the inner pot 10 for the time set in the ion release setting. The process proceeds to step S7. At this time, the germination brown rice control unit 37 controls to open the shutter 25 so that the ion supply port 20 is opened.

  In step S7, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 controls the ion generator 24 to stop the release of ions into the inner pot 10 for the time set in the ion release setting, and in step S8. Proceed to

  In step S8, the germination brown rice control unit 37 determines whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time. If the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time, the process proceeds to step S9.

  On the other hand, when the time elapsed since the start of the germination process has not elapsed the germination set time, the process returns to step S6. And the germination brown rice control part 37 controls the ion generator 24 based on ion discharge | release setting again, and repeats discharge | release and stop of the ion in the inner pot 10 until germination setting time passes.

  In step S9, the continuous control unit 41 ends the germination process when the germination set time has elapsed. And after completion | finish of a germination process, the continuous control part 41 switches a control part automatically from the germination brown rice control part 37 to the rice cooking control part 38, and follows it to step S10.

  In step S10, the rice cooking control part 38 act | operates and transfers to a rice cooking process. The rice cooking control unit 38 turns on the induction coil 31, the side heater 32, and the lid heater 33 to start cooking, and proceeds to step S11. At this time, the rice cooking control unit 38 controls the shutter 25 and closes the shutter 25 to close the ion supply port 20.

  In step S11, the rice cooking control unit 38 turns off the induction coil 31 with the passage of the rice cooking set time, and ends the rice cooking process. The rice cooking setting time is a rice cooking time set based on the rice cooking process set before cooking rice, and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3 before starting the rice cooking. In addition, after a rice cooking process is complete | finished, it transfers to a heat retention process automatically.

  In the rice cooker having the above-described configuration, the ion generator 24 is operated by the germination brown rice control unit 37 during the germination step, and ions are released from the ion generator 24 into the inner pot 10. Since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator 24, the rotten odor is removed without being released into the room (kitchen) during the germination process. At this time, since the germinated brown rice control unit 37 operates the ion generator 24 and the shutter 25 in conjunction with each other, ions can be released into the inner pot 10.

  Further, since the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 are controlled by the germination brown rice control unit 37 so that the temperature of the inner pot 10 becomes the germination set temperature, the temperature in the inner pot 10 is maintained at the germination set temperature, The brown rice in the inner pot 10 can be germinated quickly and completely.

  Moreover, at the time of a rice cooking process, the rice cooking control part 38 controls the induction coil 31, the side heater 32, and the lid heater 33, and heats the inner pot 10 so that the temperature of the inner pot 10 reaches target temperature, Therefore Optimal temperature Can cook rice. At this time, the rice cooking control unit 38 controls the shutter 25 and closes the ion supply port 20 by the shutter 25, so that the ion generator 24 is not exposed to water vapor such as steam. Durability can be increased.

  Furthermore, since the said continuous control part 41 controls so that the germination brown rice control part 37 and the rice cooking control part 38 operate | move sequentially one after another, it is not necessary to change the water in the inner pot 10. The germination step and the rice cooking step can be carried out continuously without bothering human hands, and the steps from the germination step to the rice cooking step can be carried out automatically.

  FIG. 6 shows the result of the sensory test in the rice cooker having the above configuration. There were five testers for this sensory test. One cup of brown rice and water necessary for cooking were placed in the inner pot 10 and investigated for a case where they were immersed for 24 hours at room temperature. One of the investigation targets is a rice cooker left as it is for 24 hours, and the other is a rice cooker in which plasma cluster ions are released into the inner pot 10 at a rate of 50/60 seconds during the soaking of brown rice.

  As can be seen from the test results of FIG. 6, by releasing plasma cluster ions from the ion generator 24 into the inner pot 10 during the germination process of brown rice, it is possible to almost completely remove the rotten odor generated during germination of the brown rice. it can.

  In the above embodiment, since the ion generator 24 generates plasma cluster ions, it has a high sterilizing ability, can almost completely remove odors, and is plasma with a low voltage of an effective value of 1.1 kV to 1.4 kV. It can generate cluster ions, does not require a high voltage circuit, and can easily and cheaply produce rice cookers.

  However, the ion generator 24 is not limited to the plasma cluster ion generator, and may be a normal ion generator using a high voltage, for example.

  The rice cooker having the above-described configuration can automatically perform the germination process, the rice cooking process, and the heat retaining process continuously, but it can of course automatically perform the water immersion process, the rice cooking process, and the heat retaining process. is there. Furthermore, for example, it is of course possible to carry out only the germination step or the rice cooking step alone.

  Further, for example, a time from the end of one process to the start of the next process may be set as a timer so that the process proceeds to a rice cooking process after a certain time has elapsed after completion of the germination process.

  Alternatively, the ion generator 24 may be controlled so that ions can be released only during a specific process (for example, only the germination process, or only the water immersion process and the heat retaining process).

  In the above-described embodiment, the ion generator 24 is controlled by the control device 30 for each process according to the setting performed by the user, and discharges ions. However, regardless of the control device 30, for example, in each process Ions may be released manually by a switch or the like.

  In addition, some ion emission settings may be stored in the control device 30 in advance. Each control unit of the control device 30 may automatically select an ion release setting that is optimal for each process and release the ions, or each ion of the control device 30 may have an ion release setting determined for each process. The control unit may select and release ions.

  In each step, a timer may be set so that the ion generator 24 is operated for a certain period of time to release ions into the inner pot 10.

  In addition, for example, the inundation control unit 36 may control the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 in the inundation process so that the temperature of the water in which rice is immersed in the inundation process can be adjusted. 36 may also serve as the germination brown rice control unit 37.

  Further, the ion generator 24 may be provided not in the lid 2 but in the main body 1 so as to release ions into the inner pot 10 through an ion passage.

  For example, the ion generator 24 may be provided with an inspection port on the upper surface of the lid 2 so that the ion generator 24 can be detached from the lid 2. Even if the ion generator 24 is contaminated due to a twist or the like, the ion generator 24 can be removed from the lid 2 and cleaned. By washing the ion generator 24 in this manner, the inside of the rice cooker can be kept clean, and the performance of the ion generator 24 can always be maximized.

  Further, a blower fan may be provided on the left side surface of the ion storage chamber 28 where the discharge port of the ion generator 24 is provided. Since the air is sent toward the ion supply port 20 by this blower fan, the ions released from the ion generator 24 can be reliably discharged from the ion storage chamber 28 into the inner pot 10, and the ion emission efficiency can be improved. it can.

  Further, for example, a stirring device or an air bubble generator may be provided on the right surface side (the right side in FIG. 3) in the outer lid 21 in the lid body 2. When ions are released from the ion generator 24, the surface of the water in the inner pot 10 is agitated by a stirrer or an air bubble generator so that the ions are easily dissolved in the water. The decomposition and removal effect can be further enhanced.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Rice cooker main body 2 ... Cover 2a ... Steam port 3 ... Display operation part 4 ... Hook button 5 ... Main body handle 6 ... Power supply cord 10 ... Inner pan 10a ... Flange part 10b ... Body part 11 ... Inner pan handle 12 ... Out Case 12a ... Recess 13 ... Inner case 20 ... Ion supply port 21 ... Outer lid 22 ... Inner lid 23 ... Upper packing 24 ... Ion generator 25 ... Shutter 26 ... Lower packing 28 ... Ion storage chamber 30 ... Control device 31 ... Induction coil 32 ... Side heater 33 ... Lid heater 34 ... Bottom temperature sensor 35 ... Lid temperature sensor 36 ... Inundation control unit 37 ... Germination brown rice control unit 38 ... Rice cooking control unit 39 ... Ferrite member 41 ... Continuous control unit 42 ... Insulation control unit

  The present invention relates to a rice cooker.

  Conventionally, as a rice cooker, there exists what was described in Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 10-155562 (patent document 1).

  This rice cooker includes reserved rice cooking means for automatically starting rice cooking after the set time has elapsed and heat insulation means for keeping the rice warm, thereby making reservation rice cooking and heat insulation possible.

  By the way, in recent years, a single person or the like may take a long time (more than one day) for reserved cooking, and the planned return time may be changed due to a sudden business trip instruction or the like.

  In that case, as the reservation time and heat retention time become longer than previously expected, various germs propagate in the inner pot, and the spoilage due to the propagation of various germs progresses and a spoilage odor occurs. There is a problem that it becomes impossible to eat rice (cooked food) in the pot. The present inventor has discovered such a new problem.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 10-155562

  Then, the subject of this invention is providing the rice cooker which can suppress generation | occurrence | production of the germs in an inner pot, and can prevent generation | occurrence | production of a rotten odor.

In order to solve the above problems, the rice cooker of this invention is
The body,
A lid that is attached to the upper part of the main body so as to be freely opened and closed, and can close the upper opening of the main body,
An inner pot stored in the main body so as to be removable,
A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the inner pot;
A heating unit for heating the inner pot;
An ion generator that emits ions into the inner pot ;
An opening and closing device for opening and closing between the ion generator and the inner pot ,
In the state where the switchgear is opened, the switchgear is opposed to the ion generator, and serves as a guide for guiding ions generated by the ion generator to the center of the inner pot.
A rice germination control unit that controls the germination brown rice control unit that activates the ion generator during the germination step to create germinated brown rice that is a submerged step, and the heating unit that controls the temperature of the inner pot during the rice cooking step. And a heat control unit that controls the heating unit so that the temperature of the inner pot becomes a target temperature during the heat-holding process and operates the ion generator .

  According to the said structure, ion is discharge | released in an inner pot from an ion generator. Since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator, the propagation of the germs in the inner pot can be suppressed.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one Embodiment, the said ion generator is operated during the water immersion process or the heat retention process.

  According to the said embodiment, the said ion generator is operated during a water immersion process and a heat retention process, and ion is discharge | released in an inner pot from an ion generator. Since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator, the propagation of the germs in the inner pot is suppressed during the water immersion process and the heat retaining process. Therefore, no spoilage odor due to the propagation of various germs occurs during the water immersion process and the heat retention process, and the long water immersion process and the heat retention process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one embodiment, the germination brown rice control part which operates the said ion generator at the time of the germination process for creating germination brown rice, and the temperature of the said inner pot become a target temperature at the time of a rice cooking process The rice cooker control part which controls is provided.

  According to the above embodiment, during the germination step, the ion generator is operated by the germination brown rice control unit, and ions are released from the ion generator into the inner pot. The germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator.

  When making germinated brown rice, in conventional rice cookers, germination is performed by immersing brown rice in water at 28-34 ° C in the inner pot for 3-6 hours, opening and closing the rotten odor generated during this germination process It was discharged into the room from the valve. For this reason, in the conventional rice cooker, since the rotten odor peculiar to a germination process is discharged | emitted from the on-off valve to the room | chamber interior, the room | chamber (kitchen) might be filled with the unpleasant odor.

  Moreover, according to this embodiment, since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator, no spoiled odor is generated, and the water in the inner pot is not produced during the germination process. No need to replace. Therefore, germination of brown rice and cooking rice can be performed without replacing water.

  In the conventional rice cooker, there is a rice germ that says that brown rice can be germinated in 3 to 6 hours in the germination process. It may take such a case. Therefore, in order to remove the rotten odor (due to the propagation of miscellaneous bacteria) of the lye that occurs during germination of brown rice, it is necessary to replace water about every 2 to 3 hours. In conventional rice cookers, germination and cooking of brown rice In fact, it is impossible to do everything automatically and continuously without bothering human hands.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one Embodiment, the said germination brown rice control part controls the said heating part in the said germination process so that the temperature of the said inner pot becomes germination preset temperature based on the output of the said temperature sensor. .

  According to the above embodiment, since the heating unit is controlled by the germination brown rice control unit so that the temperature of the inner pot during the germination step becomes the germination setting temperature, the germination setting for germinating the brown rice in the inner pot quickly and completely. Can keep the temperature in the inner pot to the temperature.

  Moreover, the rice cooker of one Embodiment is equipped with the opening / closing apparatus which opens and closes between the exit of the said ion generator, and the inside of the said inner pot.

  According to the above embodiment, since the opening / closing device can open and close the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot, when releasing ions, the opening / closing device opens the space between the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot. , Ions can be released into the inner pot. When ions are not released, the ion generator can be blocked from the inside pan by the switchgear so that steam or the like does not go to the ion generator, thereby increasing the durability of the ion generator.

Moreover, in the rice cooker of one embodiment, it comprises an opening and closing device that opens and closes between the outlet of the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot,
The germination brown rice control unit controls the opening / closing device to be opened or closed during the germination step.

  According to the above embodiment, the germinated brown rice control unit can control the ion generator and the switching device during the germination process and operate the ion generator and the switching device in conjunction with each other. Only when the switchgear can be opened to release ions into the inner pot, and the ion generator does not generate ions, close the switchgear so that it is not exposed to steam such as steam during the rice cooking process. it can.

  Moreover, in the rice cooker of one Embodiment, the said control apparatus operate | moves the said germination brown rice control part and the said rice cooking control part sequentially sequentially so that the said germination process and the said rice cooking process may be performed sequentially sequentially. A continuous control unit.

  According to the above embodiment, the presence of the ion generator eliminates the need to change the water in the inner pot when germinating brown rice, and the continuous control unit includes the germination brown rice control unit and the rice cooking control unit. By sequentially operating, the germination process and the rice cooking process can be performed continuously without bothering human hands, and the process from the germination process to the rice cooking process can be performed automatically and continuously.

Further, in the cooker of the embodiment, the ion ^{_{generator, H + (H 2 O)}} m (m is an arbitrary natural number) and a positive ion ^{_{is, O 2 - (H 2 O}} ) n (n is an arbitrary And negative ions that are natural numbers).

According to the embodiment, from the ion generator, plasma cluster ions (registered trademark No. 4687401), that is, positive ions that are H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m (m is an arbitrary natural number), and O ₂ ⁻ (H Negative ions that are ₂ O) _n (n is an arbitrary natural number) are released. The active species produced when these positive ions and negative ions are generated at the same time can effectively remove the germs in the inner pot, so that in the germination process, the spoilage odor generated during germination of brown rice is reduced. It can be completely removed.

  In one embodiment, the ion generator is provided in the lid.

  According to the said embodiment, since the said ion generator is provided in the cover body, the ion from an ion generator can be discharge | released in an inner pot by the shortest distance, without being disturbed by an inner pot.

  As apparent from the above, according to the rice cooker of the present invention, since the ion generator for releasing ions is provided in the inner pot, it is possible to suppress the propagation of various germs in the inner pot and prevent the generation of spoiled odor.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a rice cooker according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rice cooker with its lid opened. FIG. 3 is a vertical end view of the rice cooker as seen from line III-III in FIG. FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the rice cooker. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the rice cooker. FIG. 6 shows sensory test data of the rice cooker.

  Hereinafter, the rice cooker of this invention is demonstrated in detail by embodiment of illustration.

  The rice cooker of this embodiment is provided with the main body 1 and the cover body 2 attached to the upper part of this main body 1 so that opening and closing is possible, as shown in FIG. The main body 1 is connected to the display operation section 3 provided on the front side, the hook button 4 provided on the front side and the upper side, the main body handle 5 attached to the rear side so as to be rotatable, and the rear side and the lower side. And a power cord 6. The display operation unit 3 has a liquid crystal display and a plurality of operation buttons. The lid body 2 is closed in a state where it is releasably locked to a latch mechanism (not shown) provided in the main body 1. Further, a steam port 2 a is provided on the rear surface side of the lid 2.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the rice cooker with the lid 2 opened.

  The lid body 2 has an outer lid 21 and an inner lid 22 as shown in FIG. The lid body 2 is attached to the upper side and the rear surface side of the main body 1 and is rotatable about a hinge shaft (not shown).

  Moreover, the inner pot 10 is accommodated in the main body 1 so as to be removable. This inner pot 10 accommodates an object to be heated (rice, water, etc.). The upper end of the inner pot 10 is open, and the shape of the opening as viewed from above is substantially circular. Further, an annular flange portion 10 a is provided on the edge of the opening at the upper end of the inner pot 10. And the inner pot handle 11, 11 made of heat-resistant resin is attached to the flange portion 10a of the inner pot 10 so as to face each other in the radial direction.

  In addition, at two locations on the upper surface of the main body 1, recesses 12a (only one is shown in FIG. 2) are provided so as to face each other. The position of the inner pot 10 relative to the main body 1 is determined by fitting the inner pot handles 11, 11 of the inner pot 10 into the recesses 12 a, 12 a.

  FIG. 3 is a vertical end view of the rice cooker as seen from line III-III in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the main body 1 includes an outer case 12 and an inner case 13 that is disposed in the outer case 12 and in which the inner pot 10 is accommodated. The inner case 13 is formed of a material having heat resistance and electrical insulation.

  Moreover, the said inner pot 10 is substantially circular shape in planar view, and has the flange part 10a and the trunk | drum part 10b. The body portion 10b extends vertically downward from the inner peripheral edge of the flange portion 10a, inclines from the lower end of the vertical portion toward the center, and continues to the annular bottom.

  An induction coil 31 for inductively heating the inner pot 10 is disposed below the inner case 13 of the main body 1. The induction coil 31 is bonded to the inner case 13 with a heat-resistant resin or the like. Further, a ferrite member 39 and the like for preventing leakage magnetic flux of the induction coil 31 are disposed below the induction coil 31. In the above rice cooker, the induction coil 31 is used as a heating source, but the heating source may be, for example, an electric heater or a gas fire.

  A bottom temperature sensor 34 (shown in FIG. 4) is disposed below the inner case 13. The bottom temperature sensor 34 abuts on the inner pot 10 stored in the inner case 13 and detects the temperature of the inner pot 10.

  A side heater 32 is disposed in the main body 1. The side heater 32 is provided along the circumferential direction so as to surround the upper side portion of the inner case 13.

  When the inner pot 10 is stored in the inner case 13, the annular heat-resistant rubber lower packing 26 attached to the upper end surface of the inner case 13 is in close contact with the lower surface of the flange portion 10 a of the inner pot 10 so as to be able to contact and separate. The space between the inner pot 10 and the inner case 13 is sealed.

  The lid body 2 includes an outer lid 21 that is rotatably supported by the main body 1 and an inner lid 22 that is attached to a side of the outer lid 21 that faces the inner pot 10.

  The inner lid 22 has a substantially circular shape that is slightly smaller than the outer dimensions including the flange portion 10a of the inner pot 10 in plan view. An annular heat-resistant rubber upper packing 23 is detachably attached to the outer periphery of the inner lid 22. When the lid 2 is closed, the upper packing 23 is in close contact with the upper surface of the flange portion 10a of the inner pot 10 so as to be able to contact and separate, and seals between the inner pot 10 and the inner lid 22.

  An ion generator 24 and an ion storage chamber 28 having a substantially rectangular cross section are provided on the left surface side (the left side in FIG. 3) of the outer lid 21 in the lid body 2. The ion generator 24 is attached in a state where an end portion having an emission port for emitting ions penetrates the left side surface of the ion storage chamber 28. In addition, an ion supply port 20 communicating with the inside of the ion storage chamber 28 and the inside of the inner pot 10 opens at the lower surface of the ion storage chamber 28. Further, a shutter 25 as an example of an opening / closing device that opens and closes the ion supply port 20 is provided in the ion storage chamber 28. The shutter 25 is attached to the lower part of the right side surface of the ion storage chamber 28.

The ion generator 24 is a plasma cluster (registered trademark No. 4582023) (Japanese Patent No. 3680121), H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m (m is an arbitrary natural number), O ₂ ⁻ ( H ₂ O) _n (n is an arbitrary natural number) and negative ions are released. These ions (referred to as plasma cluster ions) adhere to the surface of airborne bacteria in the air and chemically react to generate H ₂ O ₂ or .OH (hydroxyl radical) as an active species. Since H ₂ O ₂ or .OH shows extremely strong activity, it can be inactivated and removed by surrounding mold and bacteria that are airborne bacteria. Hereinafter, plasma cluster ions are simply referred to as ions.

  The ions released from the ion generator 24 are first released into the ion storage chamber 28. Then, by opening the shutter 25, the ion supply port 20 is opened, and the inside of the ion storage chamber 28 communicates with the inside of the inner pot 10, and ions are released from the ion supply port 20 into the inner pot 10. .

  Since the ion generator 24 is provided on the lid 2, ions from the ion generator 24 can be released into the inner pot 10 at the shortest distance without being obstructed by the inner pot 10.

  A lid heater 33 and a lid temperature sensor 35 (shown in FIG. 4) are disposed in the lid body 2. The lid heater 33 is provided on the side facing the inner pan 10 of the outer lid 21 so as to contact the inner lid 22.

  FIG. 4 is a control block diagram of the rice cooker.

  The control device 30 arranged in the main body 1 is composed of a microcomputer and an input / output circuit and the like, as shown in FIG. 4, an operation signal from the display operation unit 3, a water immersion control unit 36, a germination brown rice control unit 37, rice cooking. Based on a control signal from the control unit 38, the continuous control unit 41, the heat retention control unit 42, a signal from the bottom temperature sensor 34, the lid temperature sensor 35, or the like, the display operation unit 3, the inundation control unit 36, the germination brown rice control Control unit 37, rice cooking control unit 38, continuous control unit 41, heat insulation control unit 42, induction coil 31, side heater 32, heater duct 16, lid heater 33, ion generator 24, and shutter 25 are controlled.

  In the rice cooker having the above-described configuration, the ion generator 24 and the shutter 25 are controlled by the water immersion control unit 36 during the water immersion process. The soaking process refers to a stage in which rice is soaked in water before cooking in the inner pot 10 and does not include a germination process in which brown rice is soaked in water for germination.

  When the shutter 25 is opened, the ion supply port 20 is opened. The ions released from the ion generator 24 are discharged into the inner pot 10 from the ion supply port 20 into the inner pot 10. At this time, the emission rate of ions emitted from the ion generator 24 can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3.

  Since the germs in the inner pot 10 are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator 24, the propagation of the germs in the inner pot 10 is suppressed during the water immersion process. Therefore, no spoilage odor due to the propagation of germs occurs during the water immersion process, and the long water immersion process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene. In particular, even in summer when the temperature is high and germs are easy to propagate, a long water immersion process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene. In addition, when cooking not only rice but also various ingredients such as cooked rice in the inner pot 10, the rotting odor caused by the propagation of various bacteria does not occur during the inundation process, and it takes a long time. The water immersion process can be performed safely in terms of hygiene.

  Further, during the heat insulation process, the ion generator 24, the shutter 25, the side heater 32, and the lid heater 33 are controlled by the heat insulation control unit 42.

  When the shutter 25 is opened, the ion supply port 20 is opened. The inner pot 10 is heated by the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 so that the ions released from the ion generator 24 are released into the inner pot 10 from the ion supply port 20 and the inner pot 10 is kept at the temperature setting temperature. 10 is heated. At this time, the emission ratio of the ions emitted from the ion generator 24 and the heat retention set temperature can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3.

  In addition, it is preferable that the shutter 25 is opened only when it is necessary for ion emission during the heat retaining step. The durability of the ion generator 24 can be increased by preventing steam or the like of the rice being kept warm from going to the ion generator 24.

  At the time of the heat retaining step, ions are released from the ion generator 24 to decompose and remove germs, and the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 raise the temperature of the inner pot 10 to 70 to 75 ° C. Preventing breeding. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the progress of the rotting of the rice and maintain a tasty rice for a long time. Therefore, it is possible to keep the cooked rice heated for a long time.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the rice cooker. The continuous control process of the germination process and the rice cooking process in the rice cooker of the said structure of this invention is demonstrated using FIG.

  First, in step S1, the continuous control part 41 operates the germination brown rice control part 37, starts a germination process, and progresses to step S2.

  In step S <b> 2, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 detects the temperature of the inner pot 10 based on signals from the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35, and the inner pot detected by the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35. It is determined whether or not the temperature of 10 is the germination set temperature. The germination set temperature is the temperature of the water in the inner pot 10 set for germinating brown rice, and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel 3 before starting rice cooking. When the temperature of the inner pot 10 detected by the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35 has reached a predetermined germination set temperature, the process proceeds to step S3.

  On the other hand, when the temperature of the inner pot 10 detected by the bottom temperature sensor 34 and the lid temperature sensor 35 has not reached the germination set temperature, the process proceeds to step S5, and the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 are turned on. The inner pot 10 is heated. And it returns to step 2 and the temperature of the inner pot 10 is detected again, and it is judged whether the temperature of the inner pot 10 has reached the germination set temperature. Thus, the germination brown rice control unit 37 continues to turn on the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 until the temperature of the inner pot 10 reaches the germination set temperature.

  The germination set temperature is preferably 28 to 35 degrees, more preferably 30 to 34 degrees, and still more preferably about 32 degrees.

  In step S3, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 turns off the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33, and proceeds to step S4.

  In step S4, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 determines whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time. The germination setting time is a time for immersing brown rice set to germinate brown rice in water, and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3 before starting rice cooking. If the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time, the process proceeds to step S9.

  On the other hand, if the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has not reached the germination set time, the process returns to step S2. And the germination brown rice control part 37 turns on and turns off the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 until the elapsed time from the start of the germination process reaches the germination set time, Continue to maintain temperature at germination set temperature.

  In order to completely germinate all the brown rice, it may take about one day after being immersed in water at approximately 32 degrees, and therefore it is preferable that the germination setting time can be set for at least 24 hours.

  Moreover, when the germination brown rice control part 37 starts a germination process by step S1, it starts control of the ion generator 24 simultaneously with progressing to step S2. At this time, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 detects the ion release setting and proceeds to step S6. The ion release setting is a setting of the release ratio of ions released into the inner pot 10 and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3 before starting rice cooking. This rice cooker is set to discharge ions at a duty ratio of 50/60 seconds.

  In step S6, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 controls the ion generator 24 and the shutter 25 to release ions from the ion generator 24 into the inner pot 10 for the time set in the ion release setting. The process proceeds to step S7. At this time, the germination brown rice control unit 37 controls to open the shutter 25 so that the ion supply port 20 is opened.

  In step S7, the germinated brown rice control unit 37 controls the ion generator 24 to stop the release of ions into the inner pot 10 for the time set in the ion release setting, and in step S8. Proceed to

  In step S8, the germination brown rice control unit 37 determines whether or not the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time. If the elapsed time since the start of the germination process has reached the germination set time, the process proceeds to step S9.

  On the other hand, when the time elapsed since the start of the germination process has not elapsed the germination set time, the process returns to step S6. And the germination brown rice control part 37 controls the ion generator 24 based on ion discharge | release setting again, and repeats discharge | release and stop of the ion in the inner pot 10 until germination setting time passes.

  In step S9, the continuous control unit 41 ends the germination process when the germination set time has elapsed. And after completion | finish of a germination process, the continuous control part 41 switches a control part automatically from the germination brown rice control part 37 to the rice cooking control part 38, and follows it to step S10.

  In step S10, the rice cooking control part 38 act | operates and transfers to a rice cooking process. The rice cooking control unit 38 turns on the induction coil 31, the side heater 32, and the lid heater 33 to start cooking, and proceeds to step S11. At this time, the rice cooking control unit 38 controls the shutter 25 and closes the shutter 25 to close the ion supply port 20.

  In step S11, the rice cooking control unit 38 turns off the induction coil 31 with the passage of the rice cooking set time, and ends the rice cooking process. The rice cooking setting time is a rice cooking time set based on the rice cooking process set before cooking rice, and can be freely set by the user on the operation panel of the display operation unit 3 before starting the rice cooking. In addition, after a rice cooking process is complete | finished, it transfers to a heat retention process automatically.

  In the rice cooker having the above-described configuration, the ion generator 24 is operated by the germination brown rice control unit 37 during the germination step, and ions are released from the ion generator 24 into the inner pot 10. Since the germs in the inner pot are decomposed and removed by the ions released from the ion generator 24, the rotten odor is removed without being released into the room (kitchen) during the germination process. At this time, since the germinated brown rice control unit 37 operates the ion generator 24 and the shutter 25 in conjunction with each other, ions can be released into the inner pot 10.

  Further, since the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 are controlled by the germination brown rice control unit 37 so that the temperature of the inner pot 10 becomes the germination set temperature, the temperature in the inner pot 10 is maintained at the germination set temperature, The brown rice in the inner pot 10 can be germinated quickly and completely.

  Moreover, at the time of a rice cooking process, the rice cooking control part 38 controls the induction coil 31, the side heater 32, and the lid heater 33, and heats the inner pot 10 so that the temperature of the inner pot 10 reaches target temperature, Therefore Optimal temperature Can cook rice. At this time, the rice cooking control unit 38 controls the shutter 25 and closes the ion supply port 20 by the shutter 25, so that the ion generator 24 is not exposed to water vapor such as steam. Durability can be increased.

  Furthermore, since the said continuous control part 41 controls so that the germination brown rice control part 37 and the rice cooking control part 38 operate | move sequentially one after another, it is not necessary to change the water in the inner pot 10. The germination step and the rice cooking step can be carried out continuously without bothering human hands, and the steps from the germination step to the rice cooking step can be carried out automatically.

  FIG. 6 shows the result of the sensory test in the rice cooker having the above configuration. There were five testers for this sensory test. One cup of brown rice and water necessary for cooking were placed in the inner pot 10 and investigated for a case where they were immersed for 24 hours at room temperature. One of the investigation targets is a rice cooker left as it is for 24 hours, and the other is a rice cooker in which plasma cluster ions are released into the inner pot 10 at a rate of 50/60 seconds during the soaking of brown rice.

  As can be seen from the test results of FIG. 6, by releasing plasma cluster ions from the ion generator 24 into the inner pot 10 during the germination process of brown rice, it is possible to almost completely remove the rotten odor generated during germination of the brown rice. it can.

  In the above embodiment, since the ion generator 24 generates plasma cluster ions, it has a high sterilizing ability, can almost completely remove odors, and is plasma with a low voltage of an effective value of 1.1 kV to 1.4 kV. It can generate cluster ions, does not require a high voltage circuit, and can easily and cheaply produce rice cookers.

  However, the ion generator 24 is not limited to the plasma cluster ion generator, and may be a normal ion generator using a high voltage, for example.

  The rice cooker having the above-described configuration can automatically perform the germination process, the rice cooking process, and the heat retaining process continuously, but it can of course automatically perform the water immersion process, the rice cooking process, and the heat retaining process. is there. Furthermore, for example, it is of course possible to carry out only the germination step or the rice cooking step alone.

  Further, for example, a time from the end of one process to the start of the next process may be set as a timer so that the process proceeds to a rice cooking process after a certain time has elapsed after completion of the germination process.

  Alternatively, the ion generator 24 may be controlled so that ions can be released only during a specific process (for example, only the germination process, or only the water immersion process and the heat retaining process).

  In the above-described embodiment, the ion generator 24 is controlled by the control device 30 for each process according to the setting performed by the user, and discharges ions. However, regardless of the control device 30, for example, in each process Ions may be released manually by a switch or the like.

  In addition, some ion emission settings may be stored in the control device 30 in advance. Each control unit of the control device 30 may automatically select an ion release setting that is optimal for each process and release the ions, or each ion of the control device 30 may have an ion release setting determined for each process. The control unit may select and release ions.

  In each step, a timer may be set so that the ion generator 24 is operated for a certain period of time to release ions into the inner pot 10.

  In addition, for example, the inundation control unit 36 may control the side heater 32 and the lid heater 33 in the inundation process so that the temperature of the water in which rice is immersed in the inundation process can be adjusted. 36 may also serve as the germination brown rice control unit 37.

  Further, the ion generator 24 may be provided not in the lid 2 but in the main body 1 so as to release ions into the inner pot 10 through an ion passage.

  For example, the ion generator 24 may be provided with an inspection port on the upper surface of the lid 2 so that the ion generator 24 can be detached from the lid 2. Even if the ion generator 24 is contaminated due to a twist or the like, the ion generator 24 can be removed from the lid 2 and cleaned. By washing the ion generator 24 in this manner, the inside of the rice cooker can be kept clean, and the performance of the ion generator 24 can always be maximized.

  Further, a blower fan may be provided on the left side surface of the ion storage chamber 28 where the discharge port of the ion generator 24 is provided. Since the air is sent toward the ion supply port 20 by this blower fan, the ions released from the ion generator 24 can be reliably discharged from the ion storage chamber 28 into the inner pot 10, and the ion emission efficiency can be improved. it can.

  Further, for example, a stirring device or an air bubble generator may be provided on the right surface side (the right side in FIG. 3) in the outer lid 21 in the lid body 2. When ions are released from the ion generator 24, the surface of the water in the inner pot 10 is agitated by a stirrer or an air bubble generator so that the ions are easily dissolved in the water. The decomposition and removal effect can be further enhanced.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Rice cooker main body 2 ... Cover 2a ... Steam port 3 ... Display operation part 4 ... Hook button 5 ... Main body handle 6 ... Power supply cord 10 ... Inner pan 10a ... Flange part 10b ... Body part 11 ... Inner pan handle 12 ... Out Case 12a ... Recess 13 ... Inner case 20 ... Ion supply port 21 ... Outer lid 22 ... Inner lid 23 ... Upper packing 24 ... Ion generator 25 ... Shutter 26 ... Lower packing 28 ... Ion storage chamber 30 ... Control device 31 ... Induction coil 32 ... Side heater 33 ... Lid heater 34 ... Bottom temperature sensor 35 ... Lid temperature sensor 36 ... Inundation control unit 37 ... Germination brown rice control unit 38 ... Rice cooking control unit 39 ... Ferrite member 41 ... Continuous control unit 42 ... Insulation control unit

Claims (9)

The body,
A lid that is attached to the upper part of the main body so as to be freely opened and closed, and can close the upper opening of the main body,
An inner pot stored in the main body so as to be removable,
A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of the inner pot;
A heating unit for heating the inner pot;
A rice cooker comprising an ion generator for releasing ions in the inner pot. In the rice cooker according to claim 1,
A rice cooker characterized in that the ion generator is operated during a water immersion process or a heat retention process. In the rice cooker according to claim 1 or 2,
A germination brown rice control unit that activates the ion generator during the germination process for creating germinated brown rice, and a rice cooking control unit that controls the heating unit so that the temperature of the inner pot becomes a target temperature during the rice cooking process. A rice cooker comprising a control device. In the rice cooker according to claim 3,
The said germination brown rice control part controls the said heating part in the said germination process so that the temperature of the said inner pot becomes germination preset temperature based on the output of the said temperature sensor. In the rice cooker as described in any one of Claim 1 to 4,
A rice cooker comprising an opening and closing device for opening and closing between the outlet of the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot. In the rice cooker according to claim 3 or 4,
An opening / closing device that opens and closes between the outlet of the ion generator and the inside of the inner pot,
The sprouted brown rice control unit controls the open / close device to open or open during the germination step. In the rice cooker as described in any one of Claim 3 to 6,
The control device includes a continuous control unit that sequentially and continuously operates the germination brown rice control unit and the rice cooking control unit so that the germination step and the rice cooking step are sequentially performed. Rice cooker. In the rice cooker according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The ion generator emits positive ions that are H ⁺ (H ₂ O) _m (m is an arbitrary natural number) and negative ions that are O ₂ ⁻ (H ₂ O) _n (n is an arbitrary natural number). A rice cooker characterized by doing. In the rice cooker as described in any one of Claim 1 to 8,
The said ion generator is provided in the said cover body, The rice cooker characterized by the above-mentioned.

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