JPWO2016170701A1 - Storage method and sterilizer - Google Patents

Abstract

When storing an object in a predetermined space, the electrolyzed water generated by electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed is vaporized, and the vaporized substance of the electrolyzed water is circulated in the space to circulate in the space. While sterilizing, the water | moisture content contained in the said space is collect | recovered.

Description

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a storage method and a sterilization method.

In recent years, interest in safety for various food products has been increasing. For example, perishable foods such as fruits and vegetables are no exception, not to mention the growth process, but also to the safety in each distribution process such as harvesting, collecting or processing, packing, transporting, storing and selling to consumers. Countermeasures are desired.
One of such measures is to prevent the growth or adhesion of bacteria in fresh foods. It is expected to ensure food safety and prevent damage to fresh foods and the like by applying appropriate cleaning or sterilization to fresh foods before reaching the consumer.
However, depending on the type of fresh food, there may be cases where existing cleaning or sterilization is not suitable. For example, some fruits and vegetables such as strawberries are not suitable for washing and sterilization using a liquid such as water washing.
Also, fresh foods once packed are rarely subjected to sterilization or the like before reaching the consumer. For example, in the process of transportation and storage, which occupies a large amount of time from shipment to delivery to consumers, at present, there are hardly any means for suppressing the growth of bacteria such as fresh food by methods other than cooling.

JP 2013-99472 A JP 2003-339912 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a storage method and a sterilization apparatus suitable for the distribution or storage process of an object that requires prevention of bacterial growth or adhesion.

  A storage method according to an embodiment vaporizes electrolyzed water generated by electrolyzing water to be electrolyzed, and circulates the vaporized substance of the electrolyzed water in the space to sterilize the space. Then, moisture contained in the space is recovered.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process for producing and distributing fresh food.
FIG. 2 is a diagram for schematically explaining the sterilization system and the sterilization method according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the first sterilization apparatus included in the sterilization system.
FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the second sterilizer included in the sterilization system.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the sterilization process according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria are cultured in an experiment for verifying the bactericidal action of vaporized sterilizing water.
FIG. 7 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria are cultured in an experiment for verifying the bactericidal action of vaporized sterilizing water.
FIG. 8 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria were cultured in an experiment for verifying the bactericidal action of vaporized sterilizing water.
FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the first sterilizer according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the second sterilizer according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sterilization process according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer according to the third embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria are cultured in an experiment for verifying a bactericidal action when dehumidification is performed in addition to the release of vaporized bactericidal water.
FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which the vaporizer of the second sterilizer illustrated in FIG. 4 is disposed in a space surrounded by a wall portion.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the vaporizer and the dehumidifier of the second sterilization apparatus illustrated in FIG. 12 are arranged in a space surrounded by a wall portion.
FIG. 16 is a graph showing temporal changes in the humidity of the space and the supply amount of the evaporated electrolyzed water when the evaporation and discharge of the electrolyzed water are continued in the configuration shown in FIG.
FIG. 17 is a graph showing an example of temporal changes in the humidity of the space and the supply amount of the vaporized electrolytic water when the vaporization and discharge of the electrolytic water is continued in the configuration shown in FIG.
FIG. 18 is a graph showing the supply amount of electrolyzed water when the amount of vaporization of electrolyzed water is changed while keeping the humidity of the space constant.
FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the humidity of the air sent to the vaporizer and the supply amount of electrolyzed water.
FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer according to the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer according to the fifth embodiment.
FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer according to the sixth embodiment.
FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer according to the seventh embodiment.

Several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Throughout each embodiment, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. Each figure is a schematic diagram for the purpose of understanding the embodiment, and the shape and dimensions of the elements shown in each figure may be different from the actual ones. Changes may be made as appropriate in consideration of technology and the like.
Each embodiment discloses a sterilization system and a sterilization method for sterilizing fresh food or a space around the fresh food in the distribution process of fresh food. Examples of the fresh food include fruits and vegetables such as fruits and vegetables, meats, and seafood. In this embodiment, fresh food is listed as an example, but in addition to processed foods, raw materials, intermediate foods, and additives for processed foods, they are used in decorative products such as fresh flowers, and in the medical and nursing fields. The sterilization method, sterilization system, and storage method of each embodiment may be appropriately applied to methods for sterilization, transportation, and storage of sanitary products and other objects that require prevention of bacterial growth or adhesion.
Here, as an example, the process of production and distribution of fruits and vegetables is shown in FIG. As shown in the flow of this figure, the fruits and vegetables are harvested when the seedlings are grown outdoors or in an indoor farmland such as a greenhouse or a growing place such as a plant plant. The harvested fruits and vegetables are collected at the collection place and processed as needed. Furthermore, fruits and vegetables are packed in a predetermined unit. Packing here includes, for example, packing in a predetermined number or each predetermined weight, accommodation in a packing container such as a cardboard box or a dedicated packing case. After packing, the fruits and vegetables are shipped and transported to a sales destination by a transporter or the like. As modes of transportation, transportation by vehicles such as trucks or trains, transportation by ships, transportation by aircraft, and the like are assumed. In general, this transportation is performed in a state where the packed fruits and vegetables are accommodated in a cargo bed, a luggage room, a container or the like. When the fruits and vegetables arrive at a sales destination or the like, they are stored in a storage place as necessary, displayed at a storefront or the like at an appropriate timing, and sold to general consumers, or delivered to restaurants or the like.
In each embodiment, the case where the fresh food is the fruit and vegetables which distribute | circulate in the above distribution processes is assumed. However, it goes without saying that the same sterilization system and sterilization method can be applied to the distribution process of other types of fresh food.
(First embodiment)
FIG. 2 is a diagram for schematically explaining the sterilization system and the sterilization method according to the first embodiment. In the example of this figure, the sterilization system includes a first sterilization device 1 and a second sterilization device 2.
The 1st sterilizer 1 is arrange | positioned at 1st sterilization places L1, such as the growth place or collection place of fruits and vegetables P, for example.
The first sterilization place L1 is different from the space where the second sterilization device 2 described later is disposed, and may be a space completely open to the outside air, or the second sterilization device 2 described later is disposed. A space similar to the space may be used.
The first sterilization apparatus 1 sprays vaporized sterilizing water on the fruits and vegetables P after harvesting, after collection, or just before harvesting, and thereby sterilizes diseased bacteria and the like attached to the surfaces of the fruits and vegetables P without wetting the surfaces of the fruits and vegetables P. A first sterilization step is performed. As the sterilizing water used by the first sterilizing apparatus 1, for example, hypochlorous acid water such as electrolyzed water can be used.
Electrolyzed water is water in which substances obtained by electrolyzing electrolyzed water to which an electrolyte such as potassium chloride or calcium chloride is added are mixed. Alkaline ion water (alkaline water) showing alkalinity is produced from the cathode side. Acid water containing hypochlorous acid is produced from the anode side of the electrode.
The fruits and vegetables P that have undergone the first sterilization step after being harvested, or the fruits and vegetables P that have been harvested after the first sterilization step have been packed (accommodated) in the packaging container 3 at, for example, a collection place or a processing place. As the packing container 3, for example, a box formed of cardboard or foamed polystyrene, a dedicated packing case, or the like can be used. The fruits and vegetables P are shipped in a state of being accommodated in the packing container 3, and are transported by a transportation means L2 such as a vehicle, a ship, or an aircraft. The packaging container 3 has a portion opened to the outside, and can circulate the air around the fruits and vegetables P and the air inside the packaging container 3.
The purpose of the first sterilization step is to sterilize the surface of the fruits and vegetables P. If the purpose can be achieved after packaging, the order of the packaging and the first sterilization step does not matter. Moreover, the packing form is not ask | required.
The 2nd sterilizer 2 is arrange | positioned, for example in the loading platform, luggage compartment, etc. of the transportation means L2. The arrangement place of the 2nd sterilizer 2 here is the space 5 enclosed by the wall part 4. FIG. In this space 5, a packaging container 3 in which the fruits and vegetables P are accommodated is also arranged. The wall portion 4 may be a wall surface of a cargo bed or a luggage compartment, or a wall surface of a container placed on the cargo bed or cargo compartment. Such a wall portion 4 surrounds the upper, lower, and four sides of the space 5 and has a sealing property similar to that of a normal luggage compartment or container.
The space 5 having a certain degree of hermeticity includes containers used for transportation of vehicles, ships, airplanes, etc., their cargo compartments, refrigerated rooms / freezers that can be stored at low temperatures, food storages that store food, etc.・ There are warehouses. There is no problem as long as the effect of the present embodiment can be obtained, even if the airtightness is completely ensured or even if there is some openness.
The second sterilization device 2 releases the vaporized sterilizing water to the space 5, so that bacteria floating in the space 5 (floating bacteria), bacteria attached to the wall 4 or the surface of the packaging container 3 (surface bacteria), etc. Perform a second sterilization step to sterilize. When the sealing property of the packing container 3 is low, the inside of the packing container 3 can also be sterilized in the second sterilization step. When the role of the 1st sterilization step which sterilizes the surface of fruits and vegetables P can also be performed in the 2nd sterilization step, it is also possible to omit the 1st sterilization step.
Sterilization by the second sterilization apparatus 2 is executed until the transportation means L2 arrives at the transportation destination, for example. As the vaporized sterilizing water used by the second sterilizer 2, for example, electrolytic water similar to the first sterilizer 1 can be used.
Such a 1st sterilization step and a 2nd sterilization step do not wet the surface of the fruit and vegetables P or the packing container 3 grade | etc.,.
Moreover, since the surface of the fruits and vegetables P or the space in which the fruits and vegetables P are arranged is sterilized by the sterilized water which is vaporized in both the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step, the surface of the fruits and vegetables P or the packaging container 3 is not damaged.
Moreover, even if the fruits and vegetables P are accommodated in the packaging container 3, the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step are performed if vaporized sterilizing water enters the interior of the packaging container 3 through holes or gaps provided in the packaging container 3. The surface of the fruits and vegetables P can be sterilized.
In the present specification, releasing the sterilized water or the like vaporized by the first sterilizer 1 is mainly called spraying, and releasing the sterilized water or the like vaporized by the second sterilizer 2 is mainly called release. The terms “spraying” and “releasing” may include the operation of releasing vaporized sterilizing water or the sterilizing water and mist, and may refer to the same operation.
Then, an example of a structure applicable to the 1st sterilizer 1 and the 2nd sterilizer 2 is demonstrated. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the first sterilizer 1. The first sterilization apparatus 1 shown in this figure includes a tank 10, a pipe 11, a pump 12, a spraying device 13, and a controller 14 (first control means).
The tank 10 stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of sterilizing water. The hypochlorous acid water is appropriately replenished manually by a water supply port provided in the tank 10 or by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the tank 10.
One end of the pipe 11 is connected to the bottom surface of the tank 10, for example, and the other end is connected to the spraying device 13. The pump 12 functions as a liquid feeding device that supplies hypochlorous acid water in the tank 10 to the spray device 13, and is provided in the pipe 11. The pump 12 can adjust the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water to be sent to the spraying device 13 by, for example, variable control of the rotation speed. In addition, the hypochlorous acid water feeding from the tank 10 to the spraying device 13 may be performed using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water sent to the spraying device 13 can be adjusted by providing the piping 11 with an electromagnetic valve having a variable opening degree.
The spray device 13 includes a housing 15 having an intake port 15 a and an exhaust port 15 b, and a vaporizer 16 and a fan 17 housed in the housing 15. In the example of FIG. 3, the pipe 11 extends into the housing 15 and is connected to the vaporizer 16.
The vaporizer 16 vaporizes hypochlorous acid water supplied via the pipe 11 and discharges a sterilizing component to the space. At the same time, the vaporizer 16 also generates mist having a relatively small particle size. In the first sterilization step, for example, an ultrasonic method can be adopted as a vaporization method that does not mainly generate mist. In this case, the vaporizer 16 vibrates the hypochlorous acid water supplied through the pipe 11 and the hypochlorous acid water stored in the container by ultrasonic waves so that the hypochlorous acid water is vibrated from the liquid surface. An ultrasonic vibrator that generates mist of chloric acid water. In addition, as a method of vaporizing hypochlorous acid water by the vaporizer 16, a method of vaporizing (atomizing) the hypochlorous acid water by discharging the hypochlorous acid water from a nozzle having a fine hole, etc. May be adopted. In addition, there is a natural vaporization formula that applies a wind to the vaporization filter with a fan or the like. However, for the purpose of sterilization without wetting the object, it is desirable that the amount of mist generated is small and the particle size is small. In addition, the vaporizer including the vaporizer of the 2nd sterilizer mentioned later may be anything as long as it has not only an equivalent of the above-mentioned method but also a vaporization method by heat such as a thermal method and other vaporizing functions.
The fan 17 sends the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and mist generated by the vaporizer 16 to the outside of the housing 15. Specifically, as the fan 17 rotates, air is taken into the housing 15 from the intake port 15a, and this air is discharged from the exhaust port 15b together with the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and mist generated by the vaporizer 16. (Sprayed). By variable control of the rotational speed of the fan 17, it is possible to adjust the amount of vaporized hypochlorous acid water or the like sprayed outside the housing 15 and the air volume.
The controller 14 includes, for example, a processor that plays a central role in the control of the first sterilizer 1, a memory that stores various setting conditions and computer programs executed by the processor, a power supply device that generates voltages to be supplied to the respective units, and the like. Yes. The controller 14 controls the pump 12, the vaporizer 16, the fan 17, and the like. In the example of FIG. 3, an input / output device 18 including a display device such as an indicator lamp or a display, an input device such as a button or a switch, and an audio output device such as a speaker is connected to the controller 14.
For example, the controller 14 controls the rotational speed of the fan 17 to such an extent that the surface of the fruits and vegetables P such as strawberries, cherries, and okras is not wetted.
Such vaporized sterilized water (hypochlorous acid water) can be sterilized without wetting the surface of the fruits and vegetables P, and at the same time, even if a mist having a small particle diameter is attached, the fruits and vegetables are rapidly evaporated. The surface of P is not wetted excessively. Therefore, it is suitable for sterilization of fruits and vegetables P that are unsuitable for washing with water, such as strawberries, cherries, or okras. Thus, the particle diameter of the mist (liquid mist) which does not wet the surface of the fruits and vegetables P is, for example, about 50 μm or less.
Thus, the first sterilization step (or spraying step described later) includes spraying liquid particles obtained by misting electrolyzed water, and the particle size of the liquid particles is determined when the liquid particles adhere to the fruits and vegetables P. It is a grade which does not wet P.
Moreover, radish, burdock, etc. may be sprinkled with sterilization water as the first sterilization step, instead of the vaporized sterilization water described above. In the present application, even when flowing in this way, it is handled as a kind of spray of sterilizing water. Spraying may be performed by discharging hypochlorous acid water from a nozzle having fine holes.
FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2. The 2nd sterilizer 2 shown in this figure is provided with the tank 20, the piping 21, the pump 22, the vaporizer 23, and the controller 24 (2nd control means).
The tank 20 stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of sterilizing water. The hypochlorous acid water is appropriately replenished manually by a water supply port provided in the tank 20 or by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the tank 20.
One end of the pipe 21 is connected to the bottom surface of the tank 20, for example, and the other end is connected to the vaporizer 23. The pump 22 functions as a liquid feeding device that supplies hypochlorous acid water in the tank 20 to the vaporizer 23, and is provided in the pipe 21. The pump 22 can adjust the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water sent to the vaporizer 23 by, for example, variable control of the rotation speed. It should be noted that the hypochlorous acid solution may be sent from the tank 20 to the vaporizer 23 using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water sent to the vaporizer 23 can be adjusted by providing a solenoid valve having a variable opening degree in the pipe 21.
The vaporizer 23 includes a housing 25 having an intake port 25a and an exhaust port 25b, and a vaporizer 26 (vaporization member) and a fan 27 housed in the housing 25. In the example of FIG. 4, the pipe 21 is connected to the upper wall of the housing 25, and hypochlorous acid water is dropped into the vaporizer 26.
As the vaporizer 26, for example, a water absorption filter that absorbs hypochlorous acid water dropped from the pipe 21 can be used. This water absorption filter may have a fine structure such as a fine honeycomb structure in order to increase the contact area with air and efficiently vaporize hypochlorous acid water. Furthermore, the water absorption filter is made of a material that does not easily react with hypochlorous acid water, for example, a polyolefin-based material such as polyethylene or polypropylene, or an inorganic material, or a surface coated with these materials. There may be. If such a water absorption filter is used, corrosion of the water absorption filter by hypochlorous acid water and deactivation of hypochlorous acid water can be prevented. The vaporizer 26 can vaporize hypochlorous acid water and at the same time generate mist having a relatively small particle size.
The fan 27 discharges the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26 to the outside of the housing 25. Specifically, as the fan 27 rotates, air is taken into the housing 25 from the intake port 25a, and this air is discharged (released) from the exhaust port 25b together with the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26. With the variable control of the rotation speed of the fan 27, the amount of gas released to the outside of the housing 25 can be adjusted. In the example of FIG. 4, the fan 27 is disposed between the vaporizer 26 and the exhaust port 25b. Thereby, it can prevent that the hypochlorous acid water before the wind from the fan 27 hits directly on the vaporizer | carburetor 26, and is vaporized is scattered.
The controller 24 includes, for example, a processor that plays a central role in the control of the second sterilizer 2, a memory that stores various setting conditions and a computer program executed by the processor, and a power supply device that generates a voltage to be supplied to each unit. . The controller 24 controls the pump 22, the vaporizer 26, the fan 27, and the like. In the example of FIG. 4, an input / output device 28 including a display device such as an indicator lamp or a display, an input device such as a button or a switch, and an audio output device such as a speaker is connected to the controller 24.
The flow of the sterilization process using the first sterilizer 1 and the second sterilizer 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The operator at the first sterilization place L1 where the first sterilization apparatus 1 is located inputs an operation start instruction by operating the input / output device 18, for example, in order to sterilize the surface of the fruits and vegetables P (step S11). In response to the input of this instruction, the controller 14 starts spraying hypochlorous acid water (step S12). That is, the controller 14 starts operation of the pump 12, the carburetor 16, and the fan 17. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water in the tank 10 is vaporized by the vaporizer 16 to become vaporized sterilizing water containing, for example, mist, and sprayed from the exhaust port 15b. The fruits and vegetables P are disposed at a place exposed to the vaporized sterilizing water, for example, at a position facing the exhaust port 15b, and the surface is sterilized by the vaporized sterilizing water.
While spraying the vaporized sterilizing water, the controller 14 waits for the timing of the end of processing (step S13). The processing end timing can be, for example, a timing at which a processing end instruction is input by an operation of the input / output device 18, a timing at which a certain time has elapsed from the start of spraying, or the like. In response to the end of processing (YES in step S13), the controller 14 stops spraying the vaporized sterilizing water.
After the first sterilization step (steps S11 to S13), the fruits and vegetables P are accommodated in the packing container 3 and transported. During this transportation, the operator inputs an operation start instruction by, for example, operating the input / output device 28 of the second sterilizer 2 in order to sterilize the space 5 in which the packing container 3 is disposed (step S14). In response to the input of this instruction, the controller 24 starts releasing the vaporized sterilizing water and mist (step S15). That is, the controller 24 starts operation of the pump 22 and the fan 27. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water of the tank 20 is vaporized by the vaporizer 26, and this vaporized gas is discharged from the exhaust port 25b. The released gas (vaporizing substance) is dispersed in the space 5 and sterilizes the bacteria floating in the space 5. Further, the released gas (vaporized material) reaches the surface of an object such as a wall 4 (ceiling, wall, floor, etc.) in the space 5 or a packaging container 3 disposed in the space 5, and these walls. Sterilize bacteria present on the floor or surface of objects. In the vaporizer 23, bacteria contained in the air taken in from the space 5 come into contact with the vaporizer 26, and the vaporizer 26 is sterilized by the hypochlorous acid water absorbed.
The controller 24 may repeat the operation and stop of the pump 22 and the fan 27 at regular intervals. This predetermined time is determined in consideration of various factors such as the size (volume) of the space 5, the number of packing containers 3 arranged in the space 5, or the concentration of hypochlorous acid water in the tank 20, for example. It can be determined at the time when the bactericidal action is realized.
While the sterilizing water is vaporized and discharged, the controller 24 waits for the timing of the end of processing (step S16). The processing end timing is, for example, the timing at which the transport means L2 arrives at the transport destination. Specifically, when the packaging container 3 is unloaded from the transport means L2, the operator ends the processing by operating the input / output device 28. The timing for inputting the instruction can be used. In addition, the processing end timing may be a timing at which a certain time has elapsed from the start of vaporization and release. In response to the end of processing timing (YES in step S16), the controller 24 stops the vaporization and discharge of the sterilizing water.
This is the end of the sterilization process shown in the flowchart. If the sterilization process including the first sterilization step (steps S11 to S13) and the second sterilization step (steps S14 to S16) is used, the surface of the fruits and vegetables P and the packaging thereof are suitably sterilized, and the final consumer, etc. Can be provided in a safe and fresh state.
If the sterilized water vaporized in the first sterilization step is sprayed, the surface of the fruits and vegetables P does not get wet, and the surfaces of the fruits and vegetables P that are unsuitable for washing with water can be sterilized. Further, in the second sterilization step, since the sterilization is performed with the vaporized sterilizing water, the packing container 3 and the like are not wetted.
Further, since the mist released together with the sterilized water vaporized in the space 5 in the second sterilization step contains water vapor, the humidity of the space 5 is increased. Thereby, the humidity suitable for maintaining the freshness of the fruits and vegetables P is realized, drying of the fruits and vegetables P accommodated in the packing container 3 is prevented, and the freshness of the fruits and vegetables P is maintained.
Thus, the sterilization treatment according to the present embodiment is suitable for the distribution process of fresh food such as fruits and vegetables P.
Here, the time for spraying the sterilized water vaporized in the first sterilization step is T1, and the time for vaporizing and releasing hypochlorous acid water in the second sterilization step is T2. Since the first sterilization step is performed before shipment of the fruits and vegetables P and the second sterilization step is performed during transportation, in many cases, T1 <T2.
In the first sterilization step, it is necessary to sterilize the surface of the fruits and vegetables P in a short time, so it is preferable to use hypochlorous acid water having a relatively high effective chlorine concentration. On the other hand, in the second sterilization step, hypochlorous acid water having a relatively low effective chlorine concentration can be used in order to sterilize the space 5 for a long time during transportation. For example, assuming that the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water used in the first sterilization step is D1, and the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water used in the second sterilization step is D2, the relationship of D1> D2 is established. It can be established. For example, D1 can be about twice or more of D2.
Note that the effective chlorine concentration in the mist sprayed by the first sterilizer 1 is about 1/2 to 1/3 lower than the concentration of hypochlorous acid water in the tank 10. Therefore, the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water stored in the tank 10 may be an effective chlorine concentration that is at least twice, or three times or more the target effective chlorine concentration of mist. For example, if the effective chlorine concentration that can be added to food is 80 ppm or less, the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water stored in the tank 10 is 160 ppm or less, and the effective chlorine concentration of sprayed hypochlorous acid water is 80 ppm. The following may be used.
Further, in the second sterilization step, the amount of hypochlorous acid water consumed by the second sterilizer 2 may be relatively small so that the hypochlorous acid water in the tank 20 is not deficient during long-time transportation. . For example, the amount of hypochlorous acid water consumed per unit time in the second sterilizer 2 is made smaller than the amount of hypochlorous water consumed per unit time in the first sterilizer 1. It is assumed that The consumption of hypochlorous acid water can be adjusted by changing the operating conditions of the pump 12 and fan 17 of the first sterilizer 1 and the pump 22 and fan 27 of the second sterilizer 2. As an example, the relationship of Q1> Q2 can be established, where Q1 is the blowing amount (volume flow rate) of the fan 17 and Q2 is the blowing amount (volume flow rate) of the fan 27. For example, Q1 can be about twice or more of Q2.
In the first sterilization step, it is better to arrange the object so that the air blown from the fan 17 directly hits the surface of the object, and in the second sterilization step, the air blown from the fan 27 is the entire space 5. In order to circulate, the air is once blown toward the ceiling so that the object indirectly hits the object.
In other words, the second sterilization step may include a circulation step of circulating the vaporized substance in which the electrolyzed water (sterilized water, hypochlorous acid water) is vaporized in the space 5. In this embodiment, the fan 27 functions as a circulation means for circulating the vaporized electrolytic water in the space 5. The circulation means is not only forcibly circulating the fan 27 and the like, but also convection in the space 5, diffusion of electrolyzed water (sterilized water, hypochlorous acid water) vaporized substances by Brownian motion, etc., and their equivalents. In addition, anything that has a function of circulating the vaporized substance in the space 5 may be used. A vaporization substance contains the gas obtained by vaporizing electrolyzed water. Further, this circulation step is performed by sterilizing the floating bacteria by contacting the floating member floating in the space 5 with a vaporizing member such as the vaporizer 26 and by dispersing the vaporized substance in the space 5. Sterilizing the floating bacteria in the inside, and allowing the vaporized substance to reach the surface of the object such as the wall or floor in the space 5 or the packing container 3 arranged in the space 5, and the surface of the wall, floor or the object Sterilizing surface bacteria present in
The sterilization in the first sterilization step is to sterilize bacteria mainly attached to the surface of freshly harvested crops and objects stored in a space open to the outside air. Although it is necessary to supply water, the sterilization by the second sterilization step is less than the first sterilization step because the bacteria floating in the sealed space are mainly sterilized after the surface of the object is sterilized. It is sufficient to supply hypochlorous acid water. Instead, it is necessary to supply hypochlorous acid water for a long period of time throughout the storage period and transportation period.
The humidity in the space 5 of the second sterilization step may be 50 to 100%, and preferably 80 to 100% from the viewpoint of storage of objects such as fruits and vegetables P. In container transport by train or truck, the indoor temperature varies greatly depending on the season, and the amount of hypochlorous acid water saturated in the space 5 also varies due to this temperature variation. For this reason, this fluctuation | variation is estimated beforehand and it is good also considering humidity as 50 to 80%.
The inventors verified the sterilization effect of the vaporized sterilizing water used in the first sterilization step by experiments. In this experiment, about 1m of harvested okra ³ After spraying the hypochlorous acid water vaporized in this booth at a humidity of 50 to 80% for a predetermined time, the bacteria are collected from the surface of the okra, and the collected bacteria are used as a medium. And cultured at 37 ° C. for about 1 day. For comparison, the okra was immersed in hypochlorous acid water for about 2 minutes, the bacteria were collected from the surface of the okra after the immersion, and the collected bacteria were cultured in the same manner.
FIG. 6 is a photograph in which the above experiment was performed four times (N1 to N4) and the medium on which the bacteria were cultured was photographed. Both the hypochlorous acid water for vaporization used here and the hypochlorous acid water used for immersion are ph6 and the effective chlorine concentration is 76 ppm. In each photograph, the medium is arranged in a circular petri dish, and the white-whited portion corresponds to the cultured bacteria. When immersed in hypochlorous acid water (“electrolyzed water immersion” in the figure) and when vaporized hypochlorous acid water is sprayed for 1 hour (“vaporized hypochlorous acid water 1” in the figure) Compared with “time spray”), the amount of the cultured bacteria was smaller when immersed in hypochlorous acid water in any of N1 to N4. On the other hand, when vaporized hypochlorous acid water is sprayed over 24 hours ("vaporized electrolyzed water 24 hours spray" in the figure), the amount of the cultured bacteria is more than that in the case of spraying for 1 hour. Was significantly less, comparable or better than in the case of immersion.
FIG. 7 shows that the concentration of hypochlorous acid water before vaporization is 152 ppm, the concentration is doubled from the verification of FIG. 6, and the spraying time is further refined to make the above experiment four times (N1 to N4). It is the photograph which carried out over this and image | photographed the culture medium in which the microbe was cultured. The spraying time is 1 hour (“vaporized electrolyzed water 1 hour spray” in the figure), 3 hours (“vaporized electrolyzed water 3 hour spray” in the figure), and 6 hours (“vaporized electrolyzed water 6 in the figure”). Time spray ”) and 24 hours (“ vaporized electrolyzed water 24 hours spray ”in the figure). From FIG. 7, it can be seen that the longer the spraying time, the fewer bacteria are cultured. Further, when the propagation amount of the bacteria in the medium after the 24-hour spray treatment in FIGS. 6 and 7 is compared, the bacteria cultured after the 24-hour spray treatment in FIG. 7 in which the concentration of hypochlorous acid water is doubled. I understand that there are few. That is, the bactericidal action on the surface of fruits and vegetables is related to the spraying time and the concentration of hypochlorous acid water. Therefore, the disinfection action on the surface of fruits and vegetables can be enhanced by setting appropriate spraying time and concentration according to the production and distribution process of fruits and vegetables, the kind of fruits and vegetables, and the like.
Furthermore, the inventors verified the sterilization effect by the vaporized sterilizing water used in the second sterilization step by experiments. In this experiment, spores of gray mold fungus were dissolved in physiological saline, and then subdivided into petri dishes to prepare samples of about 1 m. ³ After spraying the hypochlorous acid water vaporized in the booth at a humidity of 50 to 80% for 6 hours, the sample liquid was collected and kept in the medium for about 6 days. The culture was performed in an environment of 20 ° C. FIG. 8 is a photograph obtained by photographing the medium in which the above experiment was performed three times (N1 to N3) and the bacteria were cultured. As a comparison object, the culturing result of the sample treated with the vaporized spray of water shows that the bacterium has propagated on the entire surface of the culture medium in the same manner as the result of culturing the physiological saline dissolved with the spores of gray mold fungus without treatment. On the other hand, in the result of culturing after treating with vaporized spray of hypochlorous acid water, the growth of bacteria is not seen. Therefore, this embodiment is shown to be effective as spatial sterilization.
(Second Embodiment)
A second embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the first sterilization device 1 and the second sterilization device 2 and the flow of the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step. The same elements as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.
FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the first sterilizer 1 according to the present embodiment. The first sterilization apparatus 1 shown in this figure is replaced with the tank 10, the pipe 11, and the pump 12 shown in FIG. 3, and the first tank 10a, the second tank 10b, the first pipe 11a, the second pipe 11b, 1 pump 12a and 2nd pump 12b are provided.
The first tank 10a stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of electrolyzed water (or sterilized water). The first pipe 11 a has one end connected to, for example, the bottom surface of the first tank 10 a and the other end connected to the spraying device 13. The 1st pump 12a functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 10a to the spraying apparatus 13, and is provided in the 1st piping 11a. The first pump 12a can adjust the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water to be sent to the spraying device 13, for example, by variable control of the rotation speed.
The second tank 10b stores alkaline water which is an example of electrolyzed water. As this alkaline water, for example, an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution can be used. The second pipe 11b has one end connected to the bottom surface of the second tank 10b, for example, and the other end connected to the spraying device 13. The 2nd pump 12b functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the alkaline water of the 2nd tank 10b to the spraying apparatus 13, and is provided in the 2nd piping 11b. The 2nd pump 12b can adjust the flow volume of the alkaline water sent to the spraying apparatus 13 by variable control of rotation speed, for example.
The hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 10a and the alkaline water in the second tank 10b are supplied manually or through the water supply ports provided in the first tank 10a and the second tank 10b, respectively, or the first tank 10a and the second tank 10b. It is appropriately replenished by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the. The liquid feeding from the first tank 10a and the second tank 10b to the spraying device 13 may be performed using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rates of hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water sent to the spraying device 13 can be adjusted by providing solenoid valves with variable openings in the first pipe 11a and the second pipe 11b, respectively. .
The controller 14 controls the first pump 12a and the second pump 12b, respectively. When hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 10a is supplied to the vaporizer 16 by the first pump 12a while the second pump 12b is stopped, the hypochlorous acid water can be vaporized in the vaporizer 16. At the same time, the vaporizer 16 also generates a mist of hypochlorous acid water having a relatively small particle size. On the other hand, when the alkaline water in the second tank 10b is supplied to the vaporizer 16 by the second pump 12b with the first pump 12a stopped, the alkaline water can be vaporized in the vaporizer 16. At the same time, the vaporizer 16 also generates alkaline water mist having a relatively small particle size. Thus, the 1st sterilizer 1 concerning this embodiment selectively sprays vaporized hypochlorous acid water and vaporized alkaline water by selective control of the 1st pump 12a and the 2nd pump 12b. be able to.
FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2 according to the present embodiment. The second sterilization apparatus 2 shown in this figure replaces the tank 20, the pipe 21 and the pump 22 shown in FIG. 4 with a first tank 20a, a second tank 20b, a first pipe 21a, a second pipe 21b, 1 pump 22a and 2nd pump 22b are provided.
The first tank 20a stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of electrolyzed water (or sterilized water). The first pipe 21 a has one end connected to, for example, the bottom surface of the first tank 20 a and the other end connected to the vaporizer 23. The 1st pump 22a functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 20a to the vaporizer 23, and is provided in the 1st piping 21a. The 1st pump 22a can adjust the flow volume of hypochlorous acid water sent to vaporizer 23, for example by variable control of the number of rotations. The hypochlorous acid water sent to the vaporizer 23 is dropped into the vaporizer 26.
The second tank 20b stores alkaline water that is an example of electrolyzed water. As this alkaline water, for example, an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution can be used. The second pipe 21b has one end connected to the bottom surface of the second tank 20b, for example, and the other end connected to the vaporizer 23. The 2nd pump 22b functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the alkaline water of the 2nd tank 20b to the vaporizer 23, and is provided in the 2nd piping 21b. The 2nd pump 22b can adjust the flow volume of the alkaline water sent to the vaporizer 23, for example by variable control of rotation speed. The alkaline water sent to the vaporizer 23 is dropped into the vaporizer 26.
The hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 20a and the alkaline water in the second tank 20b are supplied manually or through the water supply ports provided in the first tank 20a and the second tank 20b, respectively, or the first tank 20a and the second tank 20b. It is appropriately replenished by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the. The liquid feeding from the first tank 20a and the second tank 20b to the vaporizer 23 may be performed using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rates of hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water sent to the vaporizer 23 can be adjusted by providing the first pipe 21a and the second pipe 21b with solenoid valves having variable opening degrees. .
The controller 24 controls the first pump 22a and the second pump 22b. When hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 20a is supplied to the vaporizer 26 by the first pump 22a in a state where the second pump 22b is stopped, a gas is generated by vaporizing the hypochlorous acid water in the vaporizer 26. be able to. The vaporizer 26 vaporizes the hypochlorous acid water and at the same time generates mist of hypochlorous acid water having a relatively small particle size. On the other hand, when alkaline water in the second tank 20b is supplied to the vaporizer 26 by the second pump 22b while the first pump 22a is stopped, a gas obtained by vaporizing alkaline water in the vaporizer 26 can be generated. . The vaporizer 26 vaporizes the alkaline water, and at the same time generates alkaline water mist having a relatively small particle size. As described above, the second sterilization apparatus 2 according to this embodiment is configured such that the gas obtained by vaporizing the hypochlorous acid water and the gas obtained by vaporizing the alkaline water by the selective control of the first pump 22a and the second pump 22b. Etc. can be selectively released.
The flow of the sterilization process according to this embodiment using the first sterilizer 1 and the second sterilizer 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
As in the first embodiment, the controller 14 of the first sterilizer 1 sprays alkaline water over a predetermined time when an operation start instruction is input (step S21) (step S22: first spraying step). . That is, the controller 14 operates the second pump 12b, the carburetor 16, and the fan 17 for a predetermined time while the first pump 12a is stopped. Thereby, the alkaline water of the 2nd tank 10b is vaporized by the vaporizer 16, becomes a gas containing mist, for example, and is sprayed from the exhaust port 15b. The sprayed alkaline water removes organic substances and the like attached to the surface of the fruits and vegetables P.
Subsequently, the controller 14 sprays hypochlorous acid water over a predetermined time (step S23: second spraying step). That is, the controller 14 operates the first pump 12a, the carburetor 16, and the fan 17 for a predetermined time with the second pump 12b stopped. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 10a is vaporized by the vaporizer 16, becomes the vaporized sterilization water containing mist, for example, and is sprayed from the exhaust port 15b. The surface of the fruits and vegetables P is sterilized by the vaporized sterilizing water.
After steps S22 and S23, the controller 14 determines whether or not the processing end timing has come (step S24). The processing end timing is the same as in the first embodiment. If the process end timing has not arrived (NO in step S24), the controller 14 executes steps S22 and S23 again. On the other hand, the controller 14 stops spraying the vaporized alkaline water and the vaporized hypochlorous acid water in response to the end of the process (YES in step S23).
When transporting after the above first sterilization step (steps S21 to S24), the operator inputs an operation start instruction to the second sterilization apparatus 2 as in the first embodiment (step S25). In response to the input of this instruction, the controller 24 discharges the sterilized water and mist vaporized over a predetermined time into the space 5 (step S26: first discharge step). That is, the controller 24 operates the first pump 22a and the fan 27 for a predetermined time while the second pump 22b is stopped. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 20a is vaporized by the vaporizer | carburetor 26, and this vaporized gas is discharge | released from the exhaust port 25b.
Subsequently, the controller 24 discharges alkaline water and mist vaporized over a predetermined time into the space 5 (step S27: second release step). That is, the controller 24 operates the second pump 22b and the fan 27 for a predetermined time while the first pump 22a is stopped. At this time, the alkaline water in the second tank 20b is vaporized by the vaporizer 26, and the vaporized gas is discharged from the exhaust port 25b. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water adhering to the packaging container 3 etc. which are arrange | positioned at the wall part 4 or the space 5, for example is neutralized, and these corrosion can be prevented. For example, the amount of alkaline water vaporized and released in step S27 may be less than the amount of hypochlorous acid water vaporized and released in step S26.
In steps S26 and S27, the time for releasing the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water is, for example, the size (volume) of the space 5, the number of the packing containers 3 arranged in the space 5, or the first tank 20a. In consideration of various factors such as the concentration of hypochlorous acid water and the concentration of alkaline water in the second tank 20b, the time can be determined at which the desired sterilizing action and neutralizing action are realized.
After steps S26 and S27, the controller 24 determines whether or not the processing end timing has come (step S28). The processing end timing is the same as in the first embodiment. When the process end timing has not come (NO in step S28), the controller 24 executes steps S26 and S27 again. On the other hand, the controller 24 stops vaporization and discharge of hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water in response to the end of processing (YES in step S28). This is the end of the sterilization process shown in the flowchart.
As in this embodiment, not only hypochlorous acid water but also alkaline water such as sodium hydroxide aqueous solution is used as electrolyzed water, so that the first sterilization step (steps S21 to S24) and the second sterilization step (steps S25 to S25). In each of S28), a suitable action is exhibited.
That is, in the first sterilization step, organic substances and the like attached to the surface of the fruits and vegetables P are removed by spraying alkaline water, and the sterilization action by hypochlorous acid water sprayed thereafter can be enhanced. On the other hand, in the second sterilization step, the interior of the space 5 can be neutralized to prevent corrosion of the wall 4 and the like.
In addition to these, the present embodiment can provide the same operation as the first embodiment.
In the second embodiment, a method is used in which electrolytic water is stored in advance in the first tank 10a, the second tank 10b of the first sterilizer 1, or the first tank 20a, the second tank 20b of the second sterilizer 2. The three-chamber electrolyzed water production apparatus as described in the specification attached to Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-191565 proposed by the present applicant is attached in place of these tanks, while electrolytically producing electrolyzed water, It may be sprayed. The details of the three-chamber electrolyzed water production apparatus are omitted by quoting Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-191565, and the entire contents thereof are hereby incorporated by reference.
(Third embodiment)
A third embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the second sterilizer 2 and the flow of the second sterilization step. The same elements as those in the first embodiment and the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.
FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2 according to the present embodiment. The second sterilization apparatus 2 shown in this figure is different from those shown in FIGS. 4 and 10 in that it further includes a dehumidifying apparatus 30 that recovers moisture from the space 5 and a humidity sensor 31.
The dehumidifier 30 is disposed in the space 5 together with the vaporizer 23, and includes a dehumidifier 32 and a dehumidifying fan 33 (second fan) that blows air to the dehumidifier 32. In order to distinguish from the dehumidifying fan 33, in the present embodiment, the fan 27 is referred to as a vaporizing fan 27 (first fan).
In the example of FIG. 12, the vaporizer 23 and the dehumidifier 30 share a housing 25. That is, the inside of the housing 25 is partitioned into two spaces by the partition plate 34, the vaporizer 26 and the vaporization fan 27 are disposed in one of these spaces, and the dehumidifier 32 and the dehumidification fan 33 are disposed in the other space. ing. The partition plate 34 is provided with a communication hole 34 a that communicates these two spaces. The air inlet 25a communicates the space where the dehumidifier 32 and the dehumidifying fan 33 are arranged with the outside of the housing 25, and the air outlet 25b is the space where the carburetor 26 and the vaporizing fan 27 are arranged and the outside of the housing 25. Is communicated. In the example of FIG. 12, the dehumidifying fan 33 is disposed between the air inlet 25 a and the dehumidifier 32.
For example, a cooling system in which the air sent by the dehumidifying fan 33 is cooled by the dehumidifier 32 (condenser) can be applied to the dehumidifying device 30. In this case, the dehumidifying device 30 includes a circulation pipe connected to the dehumidifier 32 and a compressor that compresses the refrigerant flowing through the circulation pipe, and heats the air sent by the dehumidifying fan 33 with the refrigerant in the dehumidifier 32. It cools by exchange, and condenses the water vapor | steam contained in this air (a refrigerant | coolant evaporates). The dehumidifying device 30 compresses the air taken in from the intake port 25a isothermally to condense the water vapor contained in the air, or evaporates the moisture adsorbed by the dehumidifying agent by the heat of the heater, A desiccant method of cooling and condensing can also be applied. The moisture generated by the condensation in the dehumidifier 32 falls as droplets into the housing 25 and is stored in the lower part of the space for housing the dehumidifier 32, for example, surrounded by the housing 25 and the partition plate 34. .
The air dehumidified by the dehumidifier 30 reaches the space where the carburetor 26 is disposed through the communication hole 34 a and is exhausted from the exhaust port 25 b to the outside of the housing 25.
The humidity sensor 31 detects the humidity of the space 5 and outputs the detected value to the controller 24. The humidity detected here is relative humidity, for example. The controller 24 controls the dehumidifying fan 33 in addition to the pump 22 and the vaporizing fan 27.
The timing at which dehumidification (dehumidification step) is performed by the dehumidifying device 30 can be, for example, a timing at which the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 rises to a threshold value (first threshold value) lower than a predetermined saturated vapor pressure. . After performing the dehumidification due to the humidity reaching this threshold, the vaporizer 23 further vaporizes the hypochlorous acid water, so that the vaporized material of the hypochlorous acid water released into the space 5 can be replaced. . Such a threshold is determined, for example, within a range where the relative humidity is 50% or more and less than 100% (saturated vapor pressure). That is, according to the control using this threshold value, the dehumidifying and vaporizing device by the dehumidifying device 30 so that the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 is in the range of 50% or more and less than 100% which is the saturated vapor pressure. Evaporation of electrolyzed water by 23 is executed.
Furthermore, in order to obtain a sufficient moisturizing action of the fruits and vegetables P and to prevent condensation in the space 5, the above threshold value is preferably about 80%. Further, the dehumidification by the dehumidifying device 30 and the vaporization of the electrolyzed water by the vaporizing device 23 may be performed so that the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 becomes a threshold value of about 80%.
In addition, the timing of dehumidification execution can also be determined by factors other than humidity, such as the timing at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of vaporization and release of hypochlorous acid water.
The timing of completion of dehumidification can be, for example, a timing at which the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 is reduced to a predetermined threshold (second threshold). Such a threshold value is set to a value lower than the threshold value used in the determination of the dehumidifying execution timing. The timing of completion of dehumidification can also be determined by factors other than humidity, such as the timing at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of dehumidification.
It should be noted that the vaporization and release of hypochlorous acid water by the vaporization device 23 may be performed constantly regardless of the timing of dehumidification execution by the dehumidification device 30, or at the same timing as the timing of dehumidification execution by the dehumidification device 30. May be executed. Moreover, vaporization and discharge | release of hypochlorous acid water by the vaporizer 23 may be performed when the dehumidification by the dehumidifier 30 is not performed, and may be stopped when dehumidification is performed.
In the present embodiment described above, the same operation as that of the first embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, if it is the structure of this embodiment, the humidity of the space 5 can be controlled and the humidity environment more suitable for transportation and storage of fruits and vegetables P can be created. Even if a temperature change caused by the temperature difference of the outside air occurs in the space 5 during transportation of the fruits and vegetables P, it is generated on the surface of the fruits and vegetables P and the wall 4 in the space 5 by appropriately controlling the humidity of the space 5 Condensation that can be performed can be suppressed. Moreover, the gas which was discharged | emitted in the space 5 and the bactericidal action became thin is collect | recovered with the dehumidification apparatus 30, and the disinfection capability of the space 5 can be improved by discharge | releasing fresh gas. If the humidity in the space 5 is high, the hypochlorite water is less likely to be vaporized in the vaporizer 23, but the vaporization of the hypochlorite water in the vaporizer 23 is promoted by collecting moisture from the space 5 and reducing the humidity. can do. Generally, hypochlorous acid is immediately activated by contact with an organic substance or the like. Therefore, it is extremely important for sterilization management using hypochlorous acid to always supply new hypochlorous acid around the object to be sterilized. According to the present embodiment, new vaporized hypochlorous acid can be supplied by collecting the gas and moisture (water molecules) released into the space 5 by the dehumidifier 30. In addition, the above can be easily realized by managing the humidity of the space 5.
In the present specification, the term “recovery” includes not only removing the gas and moisture (water molecules) from the space 5 by the dehumidifying device 30 but also discharging the gas and moisture from the space 5. That is, a configuration in which gas or moisture in the space 5 is discharged from a vent or a gap provided in the wall 4 may be employed.
The inventors verified the bactericidal action in the case of releasing the vaporized bactericidal water and dehumidifying the space as in the present embodiment by experiments. In this experiment, the purchased okra is about 1m ³ After being placed in the booth and sprayed with hypochlorous acid water vaporized in the booth for a predetermined time, the bacteria were collected from the surface of okra, and the collected bacteria were cultured in a medium for about one day. Culturing was performed in an environment at 0 ° C. This experiment was conducted for the case where a dehumidifier was placed in the booth to dehumidify the inside of the booth together with the spraying of hypochlorous acid water, and the case where no dehumidifier was placed. For comparison, bacteria were collected from the surface of okra immediately after purchase, and the collected bacteria were cultured in the same manner.
FIG. 13 is a photograph obtained by photographing the medium in which the above experiment was performed four times (N1 to N4) and the bacteria were cultured. The experimental conditions when dehumidification is not performed (“no dehumidification” in the figure) are: the booth room temperature is about 12 ° C., the humidity is 100%, and the effective chlorine concentration (ACC) of hypochlorous acid water for vaporization is 152 ppm. The experimental time is 24 hours. On the other hand, when dehumidifying is performed (“with dehumidification” in the figure), the room temperature in the booth is about 24 ° C., the humidity is 50 to 80%, and the effective chlorine concentration of vaporized hypochlorous water (ACC) ) Is 152 ppm and the experiment time is 24 hours. The high room temperature in the booth when dehumidifying is due to the heat generated by the dehumidifying device.
In each photograph, the medium is arranged in a circular petri dish, and the white-whited portion corresponds to the cultured bacteria. When the vaporized hypochlorous acid water was not sprayed ("No treatment" in the figure) and the vaporized hypochlorous acid water sprayed were compared, When the vaporized hypochlorous acid water was sprayed, the amount of the cultured bacteria was smaller. Furthermore, when spraying vaporized hypochlorous acid water, the amount of the cultured bacteria was smaller when dehumidification was performed than when dehumidification was not performed. It is worth noting that the room temperature when dehumidifying is 24 ° C., and the culturing of the bacteria is suppressed despite the fact that the bacteria are more likely to propagate than 12 ° C. when not dehumidifying.
From this experiment, the dehumidifying device 30 is provided in the second sterilizing device 2 as in the third embodiment, and the space 5 is dehumidified while releasing the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and dehumidifying the space 5. Can be seen to improve.
The driving conditions of the second sterilizer 2 vary depending on the object to be sterilized. Regarding conditions for supplying vaporized electrolyzed water to the space 5, for example, when sterilization in a short time is required, it is necessary to increase the supply amount per unit time. On the other hand, for example, when sterilizing over a long time during container transportation or storage in a warehouse, the supply amount per unit time may be small.
Regarding the humidity of the space 5, for example, when sterilizing an object that does not want to wet the surface, such as strawberries, the humidity is preferably 60% or less. Moreover, when storing the target object which needs moisturizing for a long period of time, it is desirable to set it as high humidity of 80%-95%.
Here, the advantages of the present embodiment will be described by comparison with the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which the vaporizer 26 of the second sterilization apparatus 2 illustrated in FIG. 4 is disposed in the space 5 surrounded by the wall portion 4. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the vaporizer 26 and the dehumidifier 32 of the second sterilizer 2 illustrated in FIG. 12 are arranged in the space 5 surrounded by the wall 4. Here, the amount [μg] of electrolyzed water supplied from the vaporizer 26 to the space 5 per unit time [min] is the supply amount QA [μg / m. ² Min], the amount [L] of electrolyzed water vaporized by the vaporizer 26 per unit time [h] is the vaporization amount QB [L / h · m ³ ], The relative humidity of the space 5 is defined as humidity RH1 [%]. Further, the amount of water collected by the dehumidifier 32 from the space 5 per unit time is defined as the collected amount QC, and the relative humidity of the atmosphere blown to the vaporizer 26 is defined as the humidity RH2. In the configuration of FIG. 14 in which the dehumidifier 32 is not disposed, RH1≈RH2.
FIG. 16 shows an example of temporal changes in the humidity RH1 and the supply amount QA when electrolytic water is continuously vaporized and released in the configuration shown in FIG. The bar graph shows the supply amount QA, and the line graph shows the humidity RH1. The horizontal axis represents the time T [min] at which the evaporated electrolyzed water was continuously released. The humidity RH1 increases with time T and eventually reaches 100%. In a state where the humidity RH1 reaches 100%, condensation occurs. Further, in a state where the humidity RH1 reaches 100%, the electrolytic water is hardly vaporized in the vaporizer 26, so that the supply amount QA is significantly reduced. If the vaporization by the vaporizer 26 is stopped at an arbitrary humidity, the humidity is kept constant when the space 5 is a sealed space, but the supply of electrolyzed water to the space 5 is also stopped. As described above, in the configuration that does not include the dehumidifier 32, it is difficult to achieve both the supply of vaporized electrolytic water to the space 5 and the maintenance of the humidity of the space 5.
On the other hand, the configuration shown in FIG. 15 can solve this problem. FIG. 17 shows an example of temporal changes in the humidity RH1 and the supply amount QA when the electrolysis water is continuously vaporized and released in the configuration shown in FIG. By setting the vaporization amount QB by the vaporizer 26 and the recovery amount QC by the dehumidifier 32 to the same amount at an arbitrary humidity, the humidity RH1 of the space 5 is kept constant without stopping the supply of vaporized electrolyzed water to the space 5 Can be kept in. Furthermore, the humidity RH1 can be set to an arbitrary humidity by adjusting the vaporization amount QB and the recovery amount QC. The supply amount QA (vaporization amount QB) and the recovery amount QC are adjusted, for example, by changing the rotation speeds of the vaporization fan 27 and the dehumidifying fan 33 under the control of the controller 24.
Further, with the configuration shown in FIG. 15, the supply amount QA can be increased while the humidity RH1 is kept constant by increasing the vaporization amount QB and the recovery amount QC while maintaining the same amount. FIG. 18 shows the supply amount QA (= vaporized electrolyzed water arrival amount) when the vaporization amount QB (= recovered amount QC) is changed while maintaining the humidity RH1 constant. It can be confirmed that the supply amount QA increases linearly by increasing the vaporization amount QB and the recovery amount QC by the same amount.
FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the humidity RH2 and the supply amount QA when the humidity RH1 is high at 80 to 90%. Plot PA is a measurement result in the configuration shown in FIG. 14, and plot PB is a measurement result in the configuration shown in FIG. The humidity RH2 is 30 to 45% in the plot PB and 80 to 90% in the plot PA. As for the supply amount QA, the plot PB is more than twice the plot PA. Since these plots PA and PB can be approximated by a straight line as shown in the figure, the supply amount QA and the humidity RH2 have a linear relationship, and the supply amount QA increases as the humidity RH2 is lower.
As described above, when the gas after the moisture is collected by the dehumidifier 32 is sent to the vaporizer 26 as shown in FIG. 15, the humidity RH2 of the gas blown to the vaporizer 26 is higher than the humidity RH1 of the space 5. Lower. And if it is the structure of FIG. 15, even if it is the same ventilation volume, compared with the structure which is not equipped with the dehumidifier 32 like FIG. 14, the supply amount QA and the vaporization amount QB can be increased.
Note that, as described above, the compressor method and the desiccant method can be applied to the dehumidifying method of the dehumidifying device 30, but when these methods are applied, electric power for driving the compressor and the heater is required. Therefore, it is necessary to secure a drive power supply, but measures such as using a battery are necessary in an environment where supply of power is restricted. When a battery is used, the operation time is limited, so it is not suitable for long-time transportation. Further, due to the heat generated by the operation of the dehumidifying device 30, the temperature in the space 5 may be higher than the intended temperature.
In order to deal with these problems, the dehumidifier 32 may be configured with a dehumidifier that does not require electric power, and the moisture of the air may be adsorbed by the dehumidifier when the air passes through the dehumidifier 32. As the dehumidifying agent, for example, zeolite, silica gel, alumina, activated carbon and the like can be used. By sufficiently increasing the amount of the dehumidifying agent used in the dehumidifier 32, the dehumidifying function can be maintained even during long-time transportation. Further, there is no temperature rise due to heating, and the configuration of the dehumidifying device 30 can be simplified.
(Fourth embodiment)
A fourth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment in the configuration of the second sterilizer 2. The same elements as those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.
FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2 according to the present embodiment. The second sterilization apparatus 2 shown in this figure is that the dehumidifier 32 of the dehumidifier 30 is formed of a photocatalyst, and the dehumidifier 30 includes an ultraviolet lamp 35 (irradiation apparatus) that irradiates the dehumidifier 32 with ultraviolet rays. 12 is different from that shown in FIG.
As a photocatalyst forming the dehumidifier 32, for example, titanium oxide can be used. The ultraviolet lamp 35 is turned on and off under the control of the controller 24. When the dehumidifier 32 formed of the photocatalyst is irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the ultraviolet lamp 35, an organic gas (growth promoting gas) such as ethylene gas contained in the air taken in from the intake port 25a is generated due to its oxidizing action. Decompose.
The sterilization process using the second sterilization apparatus 2 according to the present embodiment can be performed in the same procedure as that shown in the flowchart of FIG. For example, the controller 24 continuously turns on the ultraviolet lamp 35 during the second sterilization step. Alternatively, the controller 24 may turn on the ultraviolet lamp 35 at a predetermined timing in the sterilization process, for example, when a dehumidifying operation is performed by the dehumidifying device 30.
The fruits and vegetables P are spoiled by ethylene gas, and the spoiled fruits and vegetables P generate ethylene gas. If it is the structure of this embodiment, since such ethylene gas can be removed with the dehumidifier 32 formed of the photocatalyst, the fruits and vegetables P can be kept fresher.
In addition, according to this embodiment, the same operation as that of the third embodiment can be obtained.
(Fifth embodiment)
A fifth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in the configuration of the vaporizer 23. The same elements as those in the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.
FIG. 21 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer 23 according to the present embodiment. The vaporizer 23 shown in this figure is different from those shown in FIGS. 4, 10, 12, and 20 in that it includes cooling fins 40.
The cooling fins 40 are made of, for example, a metal material, and a plurality of cooling fins 40 are arranged in the vicinity of the exhaust port 25b. The gas discharged from the exhaust port 25b is cooled by the cooling fin 40, and water vapor contained in the gas is condensed. Moisture generated thereby adheres or falls to the cooling fin 40 as, for example, droplets. The vaporizer 23 may further include a container that receives water droplets falling from the cooling fin 40.
If it is the structure of this embodiment, the water | moisture content of the gas discharge | released from the exhaust port 25b to the space 5 by the cooling fin 40 will be removed, and the surface of objects, such as the packaging container 3 which accommodated fruit and vegetables P and fruit and vegetables P, will be wet. In addition, the humidity can be reduced and the humidity in the space 5 can be prevented from rising excessively.
In addition, you may provide the cooling fin 40 similar to this embodiment with respect to the 1st sterilizer 1 shown in FIG.3 and FIG.9.
(Sixth embodiment)
A sixth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in the configuration of the vaporizer 23. The same elements as those in the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.
FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer 23 according to the present embodiment. The vaporizer 23 shown in this figure does not drop hypochlorous acid water into the vaporizer 26, but immerses the vaporizer 26 in the hypochlorous acid water stored in the housing 25. FIG. This is different from those shown in FIGS. 10, 12, and 20.
In the example of FIG. 22, the piping 21 is connected to the bottom wall (the wall portion on the lower side in the direction of gravity) of the casing 25, and hypochlorous acid water supplied through the piping 21 is below the casing 25. Accumulated. A part of the vaporizer 26 is immersed in hypochlorous acid water accumulated in the housing 25. The vaporizer 26 having a fine structure such as a honeycomb structure sucks up hypochlorous acid water in the housing 25 by a capillary phenomenon. The hypochlorous acid water sucked up in this way is efficiently vaporized in contact with air over a wide area due to the slight difference structure of the vaporizer 26.
Even if it is the structure of this embodiment, the effect | action similar to other embodiment can be acquired. The configuration disclosed in the present embodiment can also be applied to the spray device 13 of the first sterilizer 1.
(Seventh embodiment)
A seventh embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in the configuration of the vaporizer 23. The same elements as those in the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.
FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer 23 according to the present embodiment. The vaporizer 23 shown in this figure has a fan 27 disposed between the vaporizer 26 and the intake port 25a (or the communication hole 34a of the partition plate 34). This is different from that shown in FIG.
In such an arrangement, the wind sent by the fan 27 directly hits the carburetor 26, which is effective when a strong blow to the carburetor 26 is required. Further, when the fan 27 is located between the vaporizer 26 and the exhaust port 25b, the fan 27 is exposed to the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26 or the flying hypochlorous acid water. It is easy to corrode. On the other hand, according to the arrangement of the present embodiment, the fan 27 is not easily exposed to the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26 or the flying hypochlorous acid water, and corrosion of the fan 27 can be suppressed. The configuration disclosed in the present embodiment can also be applied to the spray device 13 of the first sterilizer 1.
Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.
For example, the second sterilization step disclosed in each embodiment may be executed not only during transportation of the fruits and vegetables P accommodated in the packing container 3 but also when stored after the arrival thereof.
In addition, the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step disclosed in each embodiment can be appropriately combined with other processes. For example, when the fresh food to be sterilized is one that can be washed like root vegetables, a washing process may be added instead of the first sterilization step or together with the first sterilization step.
In 2nd Embodiment, the example which vaporizes both hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water by one vaporizer 16 and 26 by the time division was shown. However, in each of the first sterilization apparatus 1 and the second sterilization apparatus 2, a vaporizer for hypochlorous acid water and a vaporizer for alkaline water may be provided separately.
In 3rd Embodiment, the example which the vaporizer 23 and the dehumidifier 30 share the one housing | casing 25 was shown. However, the vaporizing device 23 and the dehumidifying device 30 may be separate devices from which the casing is separated.
The second sterilizer 2 disclosed in each embodiment may further include an air conditioner function for controlling the temperature of the space 5. In this case, a temperature environment suitable for the fresh food disposed in the space 5 can be created, and the fresh food can be transported or stored more suitably.
The configurations disclosed in the embodiments can be combined as appropriate. For example, the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined to realize a sterilization apparatus having a function of neutralizing the space 5 and a function of dehumidifying the space 5, and the fourth embodiment. You may implement | achieve the sterilizer provided with the function which decomposes | disassembles the organic gas in the space 5 combining these.

  P ... fruits and vegetables, L1 ... sterilization place, L2 ... transport means, 1 ... first sterilization device, 2 ... second sterilization device, 3 ... packing container, 4 ... wall part, 5 ... space, 10, 20 ... tank, 11, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 21 ... Piping, 12, 22 ... Pump, 13 ... Spraying device, 14, 24 ... Controller, 16, 26 ... Vaporizer, 17, 27 ... Fan, 23 ... Vaporizer.

  Embodiments described herein relate generally to a storage method and a sterilization method.

  In recent years, interest in safety for various food products has been increasing. For example, perishable foods such as fruits and vegetables are no exception, not to mention the growth process, but also to the safety in each distribution process such as harvesting, collecting or processing, packing, transporting, storing and selling to consumers. Countermeasures are desired.

  One of such measures is to prevent the growth or adhesion of bacteria in fresh foods. It is expected to ensure food safety and prevent damage to fresh foods and the like by applying appropriate cleaning or sterilization to fresh foods before reaching the consumer.

  However, depending on the type of fresh food, there may be cases where existing cleaning or sterilization is not suitable. For example, some fruits and vegetables such as strawberries are not suitable for washing and sterilization using a liquid such as water washing.

  Also, fresh foods once packed are rarely subjected to sterilization or the like before reaching the consumer. For example, in the process of transportation and storage, which occupies a large amount of time from shipment to delivery to consumers, at present, there are hardly any means for suppressing the growth of bacteria such as fresh food by methods other than cooling.

JP 2013-99472 A JP 2003-339912 A

  The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a storage method and a sterilization apparatus suitable for the distribution or storage process of an object that requires prevention of bacterial growth or adhesion.

A storage method according to an embodiment is a storage method of storing an object in a predetermined space, wherein the first humidity gas in the space is dehumidified to have a second humidity lower than the first humidity. Generating gas , evaporating electrolyzed water generated by electrolyzing water to be electrolyzed in the generated gas of the second humidity , and circulating the vaporized substance of the electrolyzed water in the space; Accordingly, sterilizing the space above object is disposed.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process for producing and distributing fresh food. FIG. 2 is a diagram for schematically explaining the sterilization system and the sterilization method according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the first sterilization apparatus included in the sterilization system. FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the second sterilizer included in the sterilization system. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the sterilization process according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria are cultured in an experiment for verifying the bactericidal action of vaporized sterilizing water. FIG. 7 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria are cultured in an experiment for verifying the bactericidal action of vaporized sterilizing water. FIG. 8 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria were cultured in an experiment for verifying the bactericidal action of vaporized sterilizing water. FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the first sterilizer according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer according to the second embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a sterilization process according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer according to the third embodiment. FIG. 13 is a photograph of a culture medium in which bacteria are cultured in an experiment for verifying a bactericidal action when dehumidification is performed in addition to the release of vaporized bactericidal water. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which the vaporizer of the second sterilizer illustrated in FIG. 4 is disposed in a space surrounded by a wall portion. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the vaporizer and the dehumidifier of the second sterilization apparatus illustrated in FIG. 12 are arranged in a space surrounded by a wall portion. FIG. 16 is a graph showing temporal changes in the humidity of the space and the supply amount of the evaporated electrolyzed water when the evaporation and discharge of the electrolyzed water are continued in the configuration shown in FIG. FIG. 17 is a graph showing an example of temporal changes in the humidity of the space and the supply amount of the vaporized electrolytic water when the vaporization and discharge of the electrolytic water is continued in the configuration shown in FIG. FIG. 18 is a graph showing the supply amount of electrolyzed water when the amount of vaporization of electrolyzed water is changed while keeping the humidity of the space constant. FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the humidity of the air sent to the vaporizer and the supply amount of electrolyzed water. FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer according to the fourth embodiment. FIG. 21 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer according to the sixth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer according to the seventh embodiment.

  Several embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Throughout each embodiment, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description is omitted. Each figure is a schematic diagram for the purpose of understanding the embodiment, and the shape and dimensions of the elements shown in each figure may be different from the actual ones. Changes may be made as appropriate in consideration of technology and the like.

  Each embodiment discloses a sterilization system and a sterilization method for sterilizing fresh food or a space around the fresh food in the distribution process of fresh food. Examples of the fresh food include fruits and vegetables such as fruits and vegetables, meats, and seafood. In this embodiment, fresh food is listed as an example, but in addition to processed foods, raw materials, intermediate foods, and additives for processed foods, they are used in decorative products such as fresh flowers, and in the medical and nursing fields. The sterilization method, sterilization system, and storage method of each embodiment may be appropriately applied to methods for sterilization, transportation, and storage of sanitary products and other objects that require prevention of bacterial growth or adhesion.

  Here, as an example, the process of production and distribution of fruits and vegetables is shown in FIG. As shown in the flow of this figure, the fruits and vegetables are harvested when the seedlings are grown outdoors or in an indoor farmland such as a greenhouse or a growing place such as a plant plant. The harvested fruits and vegetables are collected at the collection place and processed as needed. Furthermore, fruits and vegetables are packed in a predetermined unit. Packing here includes, for example, packing in a predetermined number or each predetermined weight, accommodation in a packing container such as a cardboard box or a dedicated packing case. After packing, the fruits and vegetables are shipped and transported to a sales destination by a transporter or the like. As modes of transportation, transportation by vehicles such as trucks or trains, transportation by ships, transportation by aircraft, and the like are assumed. In general, this transportation is performed in a state where the packed fruits and vegetables are accommodated in a cargo bed, a luggage room, a container or the like. When the fruits and vegetables arrive at a sales destination or the like, they are stored in a storage place as necessary, displayed at a storefront or the like at an appropriate timing, and sold to general consumers, or delivered to restaurants or the like.

  In each embodiment, the case where the fresh food is the fruit and vegetables which distribute | circulate in the above distribution processes is assumed. However, it goes without saying that the same sterilization system and sterilization method can be applied to the distribution process of other types of fresh food.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 2 is a diagram for schematically explaining the sterilization system and the sterilization method according to the first embodiment. In the example of this figure, the sterilization system includes a first sterilization device 1 and a second sterilization device 2.

The 1st sterilizer 1 is arrange | positioned at 1st sterilization places L1, such as the growth place or collection place of fruits and vegetables P, for example.
The first sterilization place L1 is different from the space where the second sterilization device 2 described later is disposed, and may be a space completely open to the outside air, or the second sterilization device 2 described later is disposed. A space similar to the space may be used.

  The first sterilization apparatus 1 sprays vaporized sterilizing water on the fruits and vegetables P after harvesting, after collection, or just before harvesting, and thereby sterilizes diseased bacteria and the like attached to the surfaces of the fruits and vegetables P without wetting the surfaces of the fruits and vegetables P. A first sterilization step is performed. As the sterilizing water used by the first sterilizing apparatus 1, for example, hypochlorous acid water such as electrolyzed water can be used.

  Electrolyzed water is water in which substances obtained by electrolyzing electrolyzed water to which an electrolyte such as potassium chloride or calcium chloride is added are mixed. Alkaline ion water (alkaline water) showing alkalinity is produced from the cathode side. Acid water containing hypochlorous acid is produced from the anode side of the electrode.

The fruits and vegetables P that have undergone the first sterilization step after being harvested, or the fruits and vegetables P that have been harvested after the first sterilization step have been packed (accommodated) in the packaging container 3 at, for example, a collection place or a processing place. As the packing container 3, for example, a box formed of cardboard or foamed polystyrene, a dedicated packing case, or the like can be used. The fruits and vegetables P are shipped in a state of being accommodated in the packing container 3, and are transported by a transportation means L2 such as a vehicle, a ship, or an aircraft. The packaging container 3 has a portion opened to the outside, and can circulate the air around the fruits and vegetables P and the air inside the packaging container 3.
The purpose of the first sterilization step is to sterilize the surface of the fruits and vegetables P. If the purpose can be achieved after packaging, the order of the packaging and the first sterilization step does not matter. Moreover, the packing form is not ask | required.

  The 2nd sterilizer 2 is arrange | positioned, for example in the loading platform, luggage compartment, etc. of the transportation means L2. The arrangement place of the 2nd sterilizer 2 here is the space 5 enclosed by the wall part 4. FIG. In this space 5, a packaging container 3 in which the fruits and vegetables P are accommodated is also arranged. The wall portion 4 may be a wall surface of a cargo bed or a luggage compartment, or a wall surface of a container placed on the cargo bed or cargo compartment. Such a wall portion 4 surrounds the upper, lower, and four sides of the space 5 and has a sealing property similar to that of a normal luggage compartment or container.

  The space 5 having a certain degree of hermeticity includes containers used for transportation of vehicles, ships, airplanes, etc., their cargo compartments, refrigerated rooms / freezers that can be stored at low temperatures, food storages that store food, etc.・ There are warehouses. There is no problem as long as the effect of the present embodiment can be obtained, even if the airtightness is completely ensured or even if there is some openness.

The second sterilization device 2 releases the vaporized sterilizing water to the space 5, so that bacteria floating in the space 5 (floating bacteria), bacteria attached to the wall 4 or the surface of the packaging container 3 (surface bacteria), etc. Perform a second sterilization step to sterilize. When the sealing property of the packing container 3 is low, the inside of the packing container 3 can also be sterilized in the second sterilization step. When the role of the 1st sterilization step which sterilizes the surface of fruits and vegetables P can also be performed in the 2nd sterilization step, it is also possible to omit the 1st sterilization step.
Sterilization by the second sterilization apparatus 2 is executed until the transportation means L2 arrives at the transportation destination, for example. As the vaporized sterilizing water used by the second sterilizer 2, for example, electrolytic water similar to the first sterilizer 1 can be used.

Such a 1st sterilization step and a 2nd sterilization step do not wet the surface of the fruit and vegetables P or the packing container 3 grade | etc.,.
Moreover, since the surface of the fruits and vegetables P or the space in which the fruits and vegetables P are arranged is sterilized by the sterilized water which is vaporized in both the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step, the surface of the fruits and vegetables P or the packaging container 3 is not damaged.
Moreover, even if the fruits and vegetables P are accommodated in the packaging container 3, the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step are performed if vaporized sterilizing water enters the interior of the packaging container 3 through holes or gaps provided in the packaging container 3. The surface of the fruits and vegetables P can be sterilized.

  In the present specification, releasing the sterilized water or the like vaporized by the first sterilizer 1 is mainly called spraying, and releasing the sterilized water or the like vaporized by the second sterilizer 2 is mainly called release. The terms “spraying” and “releasing” may include the operation of releasing vaporized sterilizing water or the sterilizing water and mist, and may refer to the same operation.

  Then, an example of a structure applicable to the 1st sterilizer 1 and the 2nd sterilizer 2 is demonstrated. FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the first sterilizer 1. The first sterilization apparatus 1 shown in this figure includes a tank 10, a pipe 11, a pump 12, a spraying device 13, and a controller 14 (first control means).

The tank 10 stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of sterilizing water. The hypochlorous acid water is appropriately replenished manually by a water supply port provided in the tank 10 or by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the tank 10.
One end of the pipe 11 is connected to the bottom surface of the tank 10, for example, and the other end is connected to the spraying device 13. The pump 12 functions as a liquid feeding device that supplies hypochlorous acid water in the tank 10 to the spray device 13, and is provided in the pipe 11. The pump 12 can adjust the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water to be sent to the spraying device 13 by, for example, variable control of the rotation speed. In addition, the hypochlorous acid water feeding from the tank 10 to the spraying device 13 may be performed using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water sent to the spraying device 13 can be adjusted by providing the piping 11 with an electromagnetic valve having a variable opening degree.

The spray device 13 includes a housing 15 having an intake port 15 a and an exhaust port 15 b, and a vaporizer 16 and a fan 17 housed in the housing 15. In the example of FIG. 3, the pipe 11 extends into the housing 15 and is connected to the vaporizer 16.
The vaporizer 16 vaporizes hypochlorous acid water supplied via the pipe 11 and discharges a sterilizing component to the space. At the same time, the vaporizer 16 also generates mist having a relatively small particle size. In the first sterilization step, for example, an ultrasonic method can be adopted as a vaporization method that does not mainly generate mist. In this case, the vaporizer 16 vibrates the hypochlorous acid water supplied through the pipe 11 and the hypochlorous acid water stored in the container by ultrasonic waves so that the hypochlorous acid water is vibrated from the liquid surface. An ultrasonic vibrator that generates mist of chloric acid water. In addition, as a method of vaporizing hypochlorous acid water by the vaporizer 16, a method of vaporizing (atomizing) the hypochlorous acid water by discharging the hypochlorous acid water from a nozzle having a fine hole, etc. May be adopted. In addition, there is a natural vaporization formula that applies a wind to the vaporization filter with a fan or the like. However, for the purpose of sterilization without wetting the object, it is desirable that the amount of mist generated is small and the particle size is small. In addition, the vaporizer including the vaporizer of the 2nd sterilizer mentioned later may be anything as long as it has not only an equivalent of the above-mentioned method but also a vaporization method by heat such as a thermal method and other vaporizing functions.

  The fan 17 sends the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and mist generated by the vaporizer 16 to the outside of the housing 15. Specifically, as the fan 17 rotates, air is taken into the housing 15 from the intake port 15a, and this air is discharged from the exhaust port 15b together with the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and mist generated by the vaporizer 16. (Sprayed). By variable control of the rotational speed of the fan 17, it is possible to adjust the amount of vaporized hypochlorous acid water or the like sprayed outside the housing 15 and the air volume.

The controller 14 includes, for example, a processor that plays a central role in the control of the first sterilizer 1, a memory that stores various setting conditions and computer programs executed by the processor, a power supply device that generates voltages to be supplied to the respective units, and the like. Yes. The controller 14 controls the pump 12, the vaporizer 16, the fan 17, and the like. In the example of FIG. 3, an input / output device 18 including a display device such as an indicator lamp or a display, an input device such as a button or a switch, and an audio output device such as a speaker is connected to the controller 14.
For example, the controller 14 controls the rotational speed of the fan 17 to such an extent that the surface of the fruits and vegetables P such as strawberries, cherries, and okras is not wetted.

  Such vaporized sterilized water (hypochlorous acid water) can be sterilized without wetting the surface of the fruits and vegetables P, and at the same time, even if a mist having a small particle diameter is attached, the fruits and vegetables are rapidly evaporated. The surface of P is not wetted excessively. Therefore, it is suitable for sterilization of fruits and vegetables P that are unsuitable for washing with water, such as strawberries, cherries, or okras. Thus, the particle diameter of the mist (liquid mist) which does not wet the surface of the fruits and vegetables P is, for example, about 50 μm or less.

Thus, the first sterilization step (or spraying step described later) includes spraying liquid particles obtained by misting electrolyzed water, and the particle size of the liquid particles is determined when the liquid particles adhere to the fruits and vegetables P. It is a grade which does not wet P.
Moreover, radish, burdock, etc. may be sprinkled with sterilization water as the first sterilization step, instead of the vaporized sterilization water described above. In the present application, even when flowing in this way, it is handled as a kind of spray of sterilizing water. Spraying may be performed by discharging hypochlorous acid water from a nozzle having fine holes.

FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2. The 2nd sterilizer 2 shown in this figure is provided with the tank 20, the piping 21, the pump 22, the vaporizer 23, and the controller 24 (2nd control means).
The tank 20 stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of sterilizing water. The hypochlorous acid water is appropriately replenished manually by a water supply port provided in the tank 20 or by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the tank 20.

  One end of the pipe 21 is connected to the bottom surface of the tank 20, for example, and the other end is connected to the vaporizer 23. The pump 22 functions as a liquid feeding device that supplies hypochlorous acid water in the tank 20 to the vaporizer 23, and is provided in the pipe 21. The pump 22 can adjust the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water sent to the vaporizer 23 by, for example, variable control of the rotation speed. It should be noted that the hypochlorous acid solution may be sent from the tank 20 to the vaporizer 23 using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water sent to the vaporizer 23 can be adjusted by providing a solenoid valve having a variable opening degree in the pipe 21.

The vaporizer 23 includes a housing 25 having an intake port 25a and an exhaust port 25b, and a vaporizer 26 (vaporization member) and a fan 27 housed in the housing 25. In the example of FIG. 4, the pipe 21 is connected to the upper wall of the housing 25, and hypochlorous acid water is dropped into the vaporizer 26.
As the vaporizer 26, for example, a water absorption filter that absorbs hypochlorous acid water dropped from the pipe 21 can be used. This water absorption filter may have a fine structure such as a fine honeycomb structure in order to increase the contact area with air and efficiently vaporize hypochlorous acid water. Furthermore, the water absorption filter is made of a material that does not easily react with hypochlorous acid water, for example, a polyolefin-based material such as polyethylene or polypropylene, or an inorganic material, or a surface coated with these materials. There may be. If such a water absorption filter is used, corrosion of the water absorption filter by hypochlorous acid water and deactivation of hypochlorous acid water can be prevented. The vaporizer 26 can vaporize hypochlorous acid water and at the same time generate mist having a relatively small particle size.

  The fan 27 discharges the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26 to the outside of the housing 25. Specifically, as the fan 27 rotates, air is taken into the housing 25 from the intake port 25a, and this air is discharged (released) from the exhaust port 25b together with the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26. With the variable control of the rotation speed of the fan 27, the amount of gas released to the outside of the housing 25 can be adjusted. In the example of FIG. 4, the fan 27 is disposed between the vaporizer 26 and the exhaust port 25b. Thereby, it can prevent that the hypochlorous acid water before the wind from the fan 27 hits directly on the vaporizer | carburetor 26, and is vaporized is scattered.

  The controller 24 includes, for example, a processor that plays a central role in the control of the second sterilizer 2, a memory that stores various setting conditions and a computer program executed by the processor, and a power supply device that generates a voltage to be supplied to each unit. . The controller 24 controls the pump 22, the vaporizer 26, the fan 27, and the like. In the example of FIG. 4, an input / output device 28 including a display device such as an indicator lamp or a display, an input device such as a button or a switch, and an audio output device such as a speaker is connected to the controller 24.

The flow of the sterilization process using the first sterilizer 1 and the second sterilizer 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The operator at the first sterilization place L1 where the first sterilization apparatus 1 is located inputs an operation start instruction by operating the input / output device 18, for example, in order to sterilize the surface of the fruits and vegetables P (step S11). In response to the input of this instruction, the controller 14 starts spraying hypochlorous acid water (step S12). That is, the controller 14 starts operation of the pump 12, the carburetor 16, and the fan 17. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water in the tank 10 is vaporized by the vaporizer 16 to become vaporized sterilizing water containing, for example, mist, and sprayed from the exhaust port 15b. The fruits and vegetables P are disposed at a place exposed to the vaporized sterilizing water, for example, at a position facing the exhaust port 15b, and the surface is sterilized by the vaporized sterilizing water.

  While spraying the vaporized sterilizing water, the controller 14 waits for the timing of the end of processing (step S13). The processing end timing can be, for example, a timing at which a processing end instruction is input by an operation of the input / output device 18, a timing at which a certain time has elapsed from the start of spraying, or the like. In response to the end of processing (YES in step S13), the controller 14 stops spraying the vaporized sterilizing water.

  After the first sterilization step (steps S11 to S13), the fruits and vegetables P are accommodated in the packing container 3 and transported. During this transportation, the operator inputs an operation start instruction by, for example, operating the input / output device 28 of the second sterilizer 2 in order to sterilize the space 5 in which the packing container 3 is disposed (step S14). In response to the input of this instruction, the controller 24 starts releasing the vaporized sterilizing water and mist (step S15). That is, the controller 24 starts operation of the pump 22 and the fan 27. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water of the tank 20 is vaporized by the vaporizer 26, and this vaporized gas is discharged from the exhaust port 25b. The released gas (vaporizing substance) is dispersed in the space 5 and sterilizes the bacteria floating in the space 5. Further, the released gas (vaporized material) reaches the surface of an object such as a wall 4 (ceiling, wall, floor, etc.) in the space 5 or a packaging container 3 disposed in the space 5, and these walls. Sterilize bacteria present on the floor or surface of objects. In the vaporizer 23, bacteria contained in the air taken in from the space 5 come into contact with the vaporizer 26, and the vaporizer 26 is sterilized by the hypochlorous acid water absorbed.

  The controller 24 may repeat the operation and stop of the pump 22 and the fan 27 at regular intervals. This predetermined time is determined in consideration of various factors such as the size (volume) of the space 5, the number of packing containers 3 arranged in the space 5, or the concentration of hypochlorous acid water in the tank 20, for example. It can be determined at the time when the bactericidal action is realized.

  While the sterilizing water is vaporized and discharged, the controller 24 waits for the timing of the end of processing (step S16). The processing end timing is, for example, the timing at which the transport means L2 arrives at the transport destination. Specifically, when the packaging container 3 is unloaded from the transport means L2, the operator ends the processing by operating the input / output device 28. The timing for inputting the instruction can be used. In addition, the processing end timing may be a timing at which a certain time has elapsed from the start of vaporization and release. In response to the end of processing timing (YES in step S16), the controller 24 stops the vaporization and discharge of the sterilizing water.

This is the end of the sterilization process shown in the flowchart. If the sterilization process including the first sterilization step (steps S11 to S13) and the second sterilization step (steps S14 to S16) is used, the surface of the fruits and vegetables P and the packaging thereof are suitably sterilized, and the final consumer, etc. Can be provided in a safe and fresh state.
If the sterilized water vaporized in the first sterilization step is sprayed, the surface of the fruits and vegetables P does not get wet, and the surfaces of the fruits and vegetables P that are unsuitable for washing with water can be sterilized. Further, in the second sterilization step, since the sterilization is performed with the vaporized sterilizing water, the packing container 3 and the like are not wetted.
Further, since the mist released together with the sterilized water vaporized in the space 5 in the second sterilization step contains water vapor, the humidity of the space 5 is increased. Thereby, the humidity suitable for maintaining the freshness of the fruits and vegetables P is realized, drying of the fruits and vegetables P accommodated in the packing container 3 is prevented, and the freshness of the fruits and vegetables P is maintained.
Thus, the sterilization treatment according to the present embodiment is suitable for the distribution process of fresh food such as fruits and vegetables P.

  Here, the time for spraying the sterilized water vaporized in the first sterilization step is T1, and the time for vaporizing and releasing hypochlorous acid water in the second sterilization step is T2. Since the first sterilization step is performed before shipment of the fruits and vegetables P and the second sterilization step is performed during transportation, in many cases, T1 <T2.

  In the first sterilization step, it is necessary to sterilize the surface of the fruits and vegetables P in a short time, so it is preferable to use hypochlorous acid water having a relatively high effective chlorine concentration. On the other hand, in the second sterilization step, hypochlorous acid water having a relatively low effective chlorine concentration can be used in order to sterilize the space 5 for a long time during transportation. For example, assuming that the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water used in the first sterilization step is D1, and the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water used in the second sterilization step is D2, the relationship of D1> D2 is established. It can be established. For example, D1 can be about twice or more of D2.

  Note that the effective chlorine concentration in the mist sprayed by the first sterilizer 1 is about 1/2 to 1/3 lower than the concentration of hypochlorous acid water in the tank 10. Therefore, the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water stored in the tank 10 may be an effective chlorine concentration that is at least twice, or three times or more the target effective chlorine concentration of mist. For example, if the effective chlorine concentration that can be added to food is 80 ppm or less, the effective chlorine concentration of hypochlorous acid water stored in the tank 10 is 160 ppm or less, and the effective chlorine concentration of sprayed hypochlorous acid water is 80 ppm. The following may be used.

  Further, in the second sterilization step, the amount of hypochlorous acid water consumed by the second sterilizer 2 may be relatively small so that the hypochlorous acid water in the tank 20 is not deficient during long-time transportation. . For example, the amount of hypochlorous acid water consumed per unit time in the second sterilizer 2 is made smaller than the amount of hypochlorous water consumed per unit time in the first sterilizer 1. It is assumed that The consumption of hypochlorous acid water can be adjusted by changing the operating conditions of the pump 12 and fan 17 of the first sterilizer 1 and the pump 22 and fan 27 of the second sterilizer 2. As an example, the relationship of Q1> Q2 can be established, where Q1 is the blowing amount (volume flow rate) of the fan 17 and Q2 is the blowing amount (volume flow rate) of the fan 27. For example, Q1 can be about twice or more of Q2.

  In the first sterilization step, it is better to arrange the object so that the air blown from the fan 17 directly hits the surface of the object, and in the second sterilization step, the air blown from the fan 27 is the entire space 5. In order to circulate, the air is once blown toward the ceiling so that the object indirectly hits the object.

  In other words, the second sterilization step may include a circulation step of circulating the vaporized substance in which the electrolyzed water (sterilized water, hypochlorous acid water) is vaporized in the space 5. In this embodiment, the fan 27 functions as a circulation means for circulating the vaporized electrolytic water in the space 5. The circulation means is not only forcibly circulating the fan 27 and the like, but also convection in the space 5, diffusion of electrolyzed water (sterilized water, hypochlorous acid water) vaporized substances by Brownian motion, etc., and their equivalents. In addition, anything that has a function of circulating the vaporized substance in the space 5 may be used. A vaporization substance contains the gas obtained by vaporizing electrolyzed water. Further, this circulation step is performed by sterilizing the floating bacteria by contacting the floating member floating in the space 5 with a vaporizing member such as the vaporizer 26 and by dispersing the vaporized substance in the space 5. Sterilizing the floating bacteria in the inside, and allowing the vaporized substance to reach the surface of the object such as the wall or floor in the space 5 or the packing container 3 arranged in the space 5, and the surface of the wall, floor or the object Sterilizing surface bacteria present in

  The sterilization in the first sterilization step is to sterilize bacteria mainly attached to the surface of freshly harvested crops and objects stored in a space open to the outside air. Although it is necessary to supply water, the sterilization by the second sterilization step is less than the first sterilization step because the bacteria floating in the sealed space are mainly sterilized after the surface of the object is sterilized. It is sufficient to supply hypochlorous acid water. Instead, it is necessary to supply hypochlorous acid water for a long period of time throughout the storage period and transportation period.

  The humidity in the space 5 of the second sterilization step may be 50 to 100%, and preferably 80 to 100% from the viewpoint of storage of objects such as fruits and vegetables P. In container transport by train or truck, the indoor temperature varies greatly depending on the season, and the amount of hypochlorous acid water saturated in the space 5 also varies due to this temperature variation. For this reason, this fluctuation | variation is estimated beforehand and it is good also considering humidity as 50 to 80%.

The inventors verified the sterilization effect of the vaporized sterilizing water used in the first sterilization step by experiments. In this experiment, the harvested okra was placed in a booth of about 1 m ³ and vaporized hypochlorous acid water was sprayed in the booth at a humidity of 50 to 80% for a predetermined time. Bacteria were collected from the surface, and the collected bacteria were cultured in a medium at 37 ° C. for about 1 day. For comparison, the okra was immersed in hypochlorous acid water for about 2 minutes, the bacteria were collected from the surface of the okra after the immersion, and the collected bacteria were cultured in the same manner.

  FIG. 6 is a photograph in which the above experiment was performed four times (N1 to N4) and the medium on which the bacteria were cultured was photographed. Both the hypochlorous acid water for vaporization used here and the hypochlorous acid water used for immersion are ph6 and the effective chlorine concentration is 76 ppm. In each photograph, the medium is arranged in a circular petri dish, and the white-whited portion corresponds to the cultured bacteria. When immersed in hypochlorous acid water (“electrolyzed water immersion” in the figure) and when vaporized hypochlorous acid water is sprayed for 1 hour (“vaporized hypochlorous acid water 1” in the figure) Compared with “time spray”), the amount of the cultured bacteria was smaller when immersed in hypochlorous acid water in any of N1 to N4. On the other hand, when vaporized hypochlorous acid water is sprayed over 24 hours ("vaporized electrolyzed water 24 hours spray" in the figure), the amount of the cultured bacteria is more than that in the case of spraying for 1 hour. Was significantly less, comparable or better than in the case of immersion.

  FIG. 7 shows that the concentration of hypochlorous acid water before vaporization is 152 ppm, the concentration is doubled from the verification of FIG. 6, and the spraying time is further refined to make the above experiment four times (N1 to N4). It is the photograph which carried out over this and image | photographed the culture medium in which the microbe was cultured. The spraying time is 1 hour (“vaporized electrolyzed water 1 hour spray” in the figure), 3 hours (“vaporized electrolyzed water 3 hour spray” in the figure), and 6 hours (“vaporized electrolyzed water 6 in the figure”). Time spray ”) and 24 hours (“ vaporized electrolyzed water 24 hours spray ”in the figure). From FIG. 7, it can be seen that the longer the spraying time, the fewer bacteria are cultured. Further, when the propagation amount of the bacteria in the medium after the 24-hour spray treatment in FIGS. 6 and 7 is compared, the bacteria cultured after the 24-hour spray treatment in FIG. 7 in which the concentration of hypochlorous acid water is doubled. I understand that there are few. That is, the bactericidal action on the surface of fruits and vegetables is related to the spraying time and the concentration of hypochlorous acid water. Therefore, the disinfection action on the surface of fruits and vegetables can be enhanced by setting appropriate spraying time and concentration according to the production and distribution process of fruits and vegetables, the kind of fruits and vegetables, and the like.

Furthermore, the inventors verified the sterilization effect by the vaporized sterilizing water used in the second sterilization step by experiments. In this experiment, spores of gray mold fungus were dissolved in physiological saline, and then subdivided into petri dishes. The sample was placed in a booth of about 1 m ³ , and hypochlorous acid vaporized in the booth. After spraying water for 6 hours at a humidity of 50 to 80%, a sample liquid was collected and cultured in a medium in an environment at 20 ° C. for about 6 days. FIG. 8 is a photograph obtained by photographing the medium in which the above experiment was performed three times (N1 to N3) and the bacteria were cultured. As a comparison object, the culturing result of the sample treated with the vaporized spray of water shows that the bacterium has propagated on the entire surface of the culture medium in the same manner as the result of culturing the physiological saline dissolved with the spores of gray mold fungus without treatment. On the other hand, in the result of culturing after treating with vaporized spray of hypochlorous acid water, the growth of bacteria is not seen. Therefore, this embodiment is shown to be effective as spatial sterilization.

(Second Embodiment)
A second embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the first sterilization device 1 and the second sterilization device 2 and the flow of the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step. The same elements as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the first sterilizer 1 according to the present embodiment. The first sterilization apparatus 1 shown in this figure is replaced with the tank 10, the pipe 11, and the pump 12 shown in FIG. 3, and the first tank 10a, the second tank 10b, the first pipe 11a, the second pipe 11b, 1 pump 12a and 2nd pump 12b are provided.
The first tank 10a stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of electrolyzed water (or sterilized water). The first pipe 11 a has one end connected to, for example, the bottom surface of the first tank 10 a and the other end connected to the spraying device 13. The 1st pump 12a functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 10a to the spraying apparatus 13, and is provided in the 1st piping 11a. The first pump 12a can adjust the flow rate of hypochlorous acid water to be sent to the spraying device 13, for example, by variable control of the rotation speed.

  The second tank 10b stores alkaline water which is an example of electrolyzed water. As this alkaline water, for example, an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution can be used. The second pipe 11b has one end connected to the bottom surface of the second tank 10b, for example, and the other end connected to the spraying device 13. The 2nd pump 12b functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the alkaline water of the 2nd tank 10b to the spraying apparatus 13, and is provided in the 2nd piping 11b. The 2nd pump 12b can adjust the flow volume of the alkaline water sent to the spraying apparatus 13 by variable control of rotation speed, for example.

  The hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 10a and the alkaline water in the second tank 10b are supplied manually or through the water supply ports provided in the first tank 10a and the second tank 10b, respectively, or the first tank 10a and the second tank 10b. It is appropriately replenished by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the. The liquid feeding from the first tank 10a and the second tank 10b to the spraying device 13 may be performed using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rates of hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water sent to the spraying device 13 can be adjusted by providing solenoid valves with variable openings in the first pipe 11a and the second pipe 11b, respectively. .

  The controller 14 controls the first pump 12a and the second pump 12b, respectively. When hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 10a is supplied to the vaporizer 16 by the first pump 12a while the second pump 12b is stopped, the hypochlorous acid water can be vaporized in the vaporizer 16. At the same time, the vaporizer 16 also generates a mist of hypochlorous acid water having a relatively small particle size. On the other hand, when the alkaline water in the second tank 10b is supplied to the vaporizer 16 by the second pump 12b with the first pump 12a stopped, the alkaline water can be vaporized in the vaporizer 16. At the same time, the vaporizer 16 also generates alkaline water mist having a relatively small particle size. Thus, the 1st sterilizer 1 concerning this embodiment selectively sprays vaporized hypochlorous acid water and vaporized alkaline water by selective control of the 1st pump 12a and the 2nd pump 12b. be able to.

FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2 according to the present embodiment. The second sterilization apparatus 2 shown in this figure replaces the tank 20, the pipe 21 and the pump 22 shown in FIG. 4 with a first tank 20a, a second tank 20b, a first pipe 21a, a second pipe 21b, 1 pump 22a and 2nd pump 22b are provided.
The first tank 20a stores hypochlorous acid water which is an example of electrolyzed water (or sterilized water). The first pipe 21 a has one end connected to, for example, the bottom surface of the first tank 20 a and the other end connected to the vaporizer 23. The 1st pump 22a functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 20a to the vaporizer 23, and is provided in the 1st piping 21a. The 1st pump 22a can adjust the flow volume of hypochlorous acid water sent to vaporizer 23, for example by variable control of the number of rotations. The hypochlorous acid water sent to the vaporizer 23 is dropped into the vaporizer 26.

  The second tank 20b stores alkaline water that is an example of electrolyzed water. As this alkaline water, for example, an aqueous sodium hydroxide solution can be used. The second pipe 21b has one end connected to the bottom surface of the second tank 20b, for example, and the other end connected to the vaporizer 23. The 2nd pump 22b functions as a liquid feeding apparatus which supplies the alkaline water of the 2nd tank 20b to the vaporizer 23, and is provided in the 2nd piping 21b. The 2nd pump 22b can adjust the flow volume of the alkaline water sent to the vaporizer 23, for example by variable control of rotation speed. The alkaline water sent to the vaporizer 23 is dropped into the vaporizer 26.

  The hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 20a and the alkaline water in the second tank 20b are supplied manually or through the water supply ports provided in the first tank 20a and the second tank 20b, respectively, or the first tank 20a and the second tank 20b. It is appropriately replenished by a power source such as a pump through a water supply pipe connected to the. The liquid feeding from the first tank 20a and the second tank 20b to the vaporizer 23 may be performed using a water head pressure or the like. In this case, for example, the flow rates of hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water sent to the vaporizer 23 can be adjusted by providing the first pipe 21a and the second pipe 21b with solenoid valves having variable opening degrees. .

  The controller 24 controls the first pump 22a and the second pump 22b. When hypochlorous acid water in the first tank 20a is supplied to the vaporizer 26 by the first pump 22a in a state where the second pump 22b is stopped, a gas is generated by vaporizing the hypochlorous acid water in the vaporizer 26. be able to. The vaporizer 26 vaporizes the hypochlorous acid water and at the same time generates mist of hypochlorous acid water having a relatively small particle size. On the other hand, when alkaline water in the second tank 20b is supplied to the vaporizer 26 by the second pump 22b while the first pump 22a is stopped, a gas obtained by vaporizing alkaline water in the vaporizer 26 can be generated. . The vaporizer 26 vaporizes the alkaline water, and at the same time generates alkaline water mist having a relatively small particle size. As described above, the second sterilization apparatus 2 according to this embodiment is configured such that the gas obtained by vaporizing the hypochlorous acid water and the gas obtained by vaporizing the alkaline water by the selective control of the first pump 22a and the second pump 22b. Etc. can be selectively released.

The flow of the sterilization process according to this embodiment using the first sterilizer 1 and the second sterilizer 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
As in the first embodiment, the controller 14 of the first sterilizer 1 sprays alkaline water over a predetermined time when an operation start instruction is input (step S21) (step S22: first spraying step). . That is, the controller 14 operates the second pump 12b, the carburetor 16, and the fan 17 for a predetermined time while the first pump 12a is stopped. Thereby, the alkaline water of the 2nd tank 10b is vaporized by the vaporizer 16, becomes a gas containing mist, for example, and is sprayed from the exhaust port 15b. The sprayed alkaline water removes organic substances and the like attached to the surface of the fruits and vegetables P.

  Subsequently, the controller 14 sprays hypochlorous acid water over a predetermined time (step S23: second spraying step). That is, the controller 14 operates the first pump 12a, the carburetor 16, and the fan 17 for a predetermined time with the second pump 12b stopped. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 10a is vaporized by the vaporizer 16, becomes the vaporized sterilization water containing mist, for example, and is sprayed from the exhaust port 15b. The surface of the fruits and vegetables P is sterilized by the vaporized sterilizing water.

  After steps S22 and S23, the controller 14 determines whether or not the processing end timing has come (step S24). The processing end timing is the same as in the first embodiment. If the process end timing has not arrived (NO in step S24), the controller 14 executes steps S22 and S23 again. On the other hand, the controller 14 stops spraying the vaporized alkaline water and the vaporized hypochlorous acid water in response to the end of the process (YES in step S23).

  When transporting after the above first sterilization step (steps S21 to S24), the operator inputs an operation start instruction to the second sterilization apparatus 2 as in the first embodiment (step S25). In response to the input of this instruction, the controller 24 discharges the sterilized water and mist vaporized over a predetermined time into the space 5 (step S26: first discharge step). That is, the controller 24 operates the first pump 22a and the fan 27 for a predetermined time while the second pump 22b is stopped. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water of the 1st tank 20a is vaporized by the vaporizer | carburetor 26, and this vaporized gas is discharge | released from the exhaust port 25b.

  Subsequently, the controller 24 discharges alkaline water and mist vaporized over a predetermined time into the space 5 (step S27: second release step). That is, the controller 24 operates the second pump 22b and the fan 27 for a predetermined time while the first pump 22a is stopped. At this time, the alkaline water in the second tank 20b is vaporized by the vaporizer 26, and the vaporized gas is discharged from the exhaust port 25b. Thereby, the hypochlorous acid water adhering to the packaging container 3 etc. which are arrange | positioned at the wall part 4 or the space 5, for example is neutralized, and these corrosion can be prevented. For example, the amount of alkaline water vaporized and released in step S27 may be less than the amount of hypochlorous acid water vaporized and released in step S26.

  In steps S26 and S27, the time for releasing the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water is, for example, the size (volume) of the space 5, the number of the packing containers 3 arranged in the space 5, or the first tank 20a. In consideration of various factors such as the concentration of hypochlorous acid water and the concentration of alkaline water in the second tank 20b, the time can be determined at which the desired sterilizing action and neutralizing action are realized.

  After steps S26 and S27, the controller 24 determines whether or not the processing end timing has come (step S28). The processing end timing is the same as in the first embodiment. When the process end timing has not come (NO in step S28), the controller 24 executes steps S26 and S27 again. On the other hand, the controller 24 stops vaporization and discharge of hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water in response to the end of processing (YES in step S28). This is the end of the sterilization process shown in the flowchart.

As in this embodiment, not only hypochlorous acid water but also alkaline water such as sodium hydroxide aqueous solution is used as electrolyzed water, so that the first sterilization step (steps S21 to S24) and the second sterilization step (steps S25 to S25). In each of S28), a suitable action is exhibited.
That is, in the first sterilization step, organic substances and the like attached to the surface of the fruits and vegetables P are removed by spraying alkaline water, and the sterilization action by hypochlorous acid water sprayed thereafter can be enhanced. On the other hand, in the second sterilization step, the interior of the space 5 can be neutralized to prevent corrosion of the wall 4 and the like.
In addition to these, the present embodiment can provide the same operation as the first embodiment.

  In the second embodiment, a method is used in which electrolytic water is stored in advance in the first tank 10a, the second tank 10b of the first sterilizer 1, or the first tank 20a, the second tank 20b of the second sterilizer 2. The three-chamber electrolyzed water production apparatus as described in the specification attached to Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-191565 proposed by the present applicant is attached in place of these tanks, while electrolytically producing electrolyzed water, It may be sprayed. The details of the three-chamber electrolyzed water production apparatus are omitted by quoting Japanese Patent Application No. 2014-191565, and the entire contents thereof are hereby incorporated by reference.

(Third embodiment)
A third embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the configuration of the second sterilizer 2 and the flow of the second sterilization step. The same elements as those in the first embodiment and the second embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2 according to the present embodiment. The second sterilization apparatus 2 shown in this figure is different from those shown in FIGS. 4 and 10 in that it further includes a dehumidifying apparatus 30 that recovers moisture from the space 5 and a humidity sensor 31.
The dehumidifier 30 is disposed in the space 5 together with the vaporizer 23, and includes a dehumidifier 32 and a dehumidifying fan 33 (second fan) that blows air to the dehumidifier 32. In order to distinguish from the dehumidifying fan 33, in the present embodiment, the fan 27 is referred to as a vaporizing fan 27 (first fan).

  In the example of FIG. 12, the vaporizer 23 and the dehumidifier 30 share a housing 25. That is, the inside of the housing 25 is partitioned into two spaces by the partition plate 34, the vaporizer 26 and the vaporization fan 27 are disposed in one of these spaces, and the dehumidifier 32 and the dehumidification fan 33 are disposed in the other space. ing. The partition plate 34 is provided with a communication hole 34 a that communicates these two spaces. The air inlet 25a communicates the space where the dehumidifier 32 and the dehumidifying fan 33 are arranged with the outside of the housing 25, and the air outlet 25b is the space where the carburetor 26 and the vaporizing fan 27 are arranged and the outside of the housing 25. Is communicated. In the example of FIG. 12, the dehumidifying fan 33 is disposed between the air inlet 25 a and the dehumidifier 32.

For example, a cooling system in which the air sent by the dehumidifying fan 33 is cooled by the dehumidifier 32 (condenser) can be applied to the dehumidifying device 30. In this case, the dehumidifying device 30 includes a circulation pipe connected to the dehumidifier 32 and a compressor that compresses the refrigerant flowing through the circulation pipe, and heats the air sent by the dehumidifying fan 33 with the refrigerant in the dehumidifier 32. It cools by exchange, and condenses the water vapor | steam contained in this air (a refrigerant | coolant evaporates). The dehumidifying device 30 compresses the air taken in from the intake port 25a isothermally to condense the water vapor contained in the air, or evaporates the moisture adsorbed by the dehumidifying agent by the heat of the heater, A desiccant method of cooling and condensing can also be applied. The moisture generated by the condensation in the dehumidifier 32 falls as droplets into the housing 25 and is stored in the lower part of the space for housing the dehumidifier 32, for example, surrounded by the housing 25 and the partition plate 34. .
The air dehumidified by the dehumidifier 30 reaches the space where the carburetor 26 is disposed through the communication hole 34 a and is exhausted from the exhaust port 25 b to the outside of the housing 25.

The humidity sensor 31 detects the humidity of the space 5 and outputs the detected value to the controller 24. The humidity detected here is relative humidity, for example. The controller 24 controls the dehumidifying fan 33 in addition to the pump 22 and the vaporizing fan 27.
The timing at which dehumidification (dehumidification step) is performed by the dehumidifying device 30 can be, for example, a timing at which the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 rises to a threshold value (first threshold value) lower than a predetermined saturated vapor pressure. . After performing the dehumidification due to the humidity reaching this threshold, the vaporizer 23 further vaporizes the hypochlorous acid water, so that the vaporized material of the hypochlorous acid water released into the space 5 can be replaced. . Such a threshold is determined, for example, within a range where the relative humidity is 50% or more and less than 100% (saturated vapor pressure). That is, according to the control using this threshold value, the dehumidifying and vaporizing device by the dehumidifying device 30 so that the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 is in the range of 50% or more and less than 100% which is the saturated vapor pressure. Evaporation of electrolyzed water by 23 is executed.

  Furthermore, in order to obtain a sufficient moisturizing action of the fruits and vegetables P and to prevent condensation in the space 5, the above threshold value is preferably about 80%. Further, the dehumidification by the dehumidifying device 30 and the vaporization of the electrolyzed water by the vaporizing device 23 may be performed so that the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 becomes a threshold value of about 80%.

In addition, the timing of dehumidification execution can also be determined by factors other than humidity, such as the timing at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of vaporization and release of hypochlorous acid water.
The timing of completion of dehumidification can be, for example, a timing at which the humidity detected by the humidity sensor 31 is reduced to a predetermined threshold (second threshold). Such a threshold value is set to a value lower than the threshold value used in the determination of the dehumidifying execution timing. The timing of completion of dehumidification can also be determined by factors other than humidity, such as the timing at which a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of dehumidification.

  It should be noted that the vaporization and release of hypochlorous acid water by the vaporization device 23 may be performed constantly regardless of the timing of dehumidification execution by the dehumidification device 30, or at the same timing as the timing of dehumidification execution by the dehumidification device 30. May be executed. Moreover, vaporization and discharge | release of hypochlorous acid water by the vaporizer 23 may be performed when the dehumidification by the dehumidifier 30 is not performed, and may be stopped when dehumidification is performed.

  In the present embodiment described above, the same operation as that of the first embodiment can be obtained. Furthermore, if it is the structure of this embodiment, the humidity of the space 5 can be controlled and the humidity environment more suitable for transportation and storage of fruits and vegetables P can be created. Even if a temperature change caused by the temperature difference of the outside air occurs in the space 5 during transportation of the fruits and vegetables P, it is generated on the surface of the fruits and vegetables P and the wall 4 in the space 5 by appropriately controlling the humidity of the space 5 Condensation that can be performed can be suppressed. Moreover, the gas which was discharged | emitted in the space 5 and the bactericidal action became thin is collect | recovered with the dehumidification apparatus 30, and the disinfection capability of the space 5 can be improved by discharge | releasing fresh gas. If the humidity in the space 5 is high, the hypochlorite water is less likely to be vaporized in the vaporizer 23, but the vaporization of the hypochlorite water in the vaporizer 23 is promoted by collecting moisture from the space 5 and reducing the humidity. can do. Generally, hypochlorous acid is immediately activated by contact with an organic substance or the like. Therefore, it is extremely important for sterilization management using hypochlorous acid to always supply new hypochlorous acid around the object to be sterilized. According to the present embodiment, new vaporized hypochlorous acid can be supplied by collecting the gas and moisture (water molecules) released into the space 5 by the dehumidifier 30. In addition, the above can be easily realized by managing the humidity of the space 5.

  In the present specification, the term “recovery” includes not only removing the gas and moisture (water molecules) from the space 5 by the dehumidifying device 30 but also discharging the gas and moisture from the space 5. That is, a configuration in which gas or moisture in the space 5 is discharged from a vent or a gap provided in the wall 4 may be employed.

The inventors verified the bactericidal action in the case of releasing the vaporized bactericidal water and dehumidifying the space as in the present embodiment by experiments. In this experiment, the purchased okra was placed in a booth of about 1 m ³ and the hypochlorous acid water vaporized in the booth was sprayed for a predetermined time, and then bacteria were collected from the surface of the okra and collected. The fungus was cultured in a medium at 37 ° C. for about 1 day. This experiment was conducted for the case where a dehumidifier was placed in the booth to dehumidify the inside of the booth together with the spraying of hypochlorous acid water, and the case where no dehumidifier was placed. For comparison, bacteria were collected from the surface of okra immediately after purchase, and the collected bacteria were cultured in the same manner.

  FIG. 13 is a photograph obtained by photographing the medium in which the above experiment was performed four times (N1 to N4) and the bacteria were cultured. The experimental conditions when dehumidification is not performed (“no dehumidification” in the figure) are: the booth room temperature is about 12 ° C., the humidity is 100%, and the effective chlorine concentration (ACC) of hypochlorous acid water for vaporization is 152 ppm. The experimental time is 24 hours. On the other hand, when dehumidifying is performed (“with dehumidification” in the figure), the room temperature in the booth is about 24 ° C., the humidity is 50 to 80%, and the effective chlorine concentration of vaporized hypochlorous water (ACC) ) Is 152 ppm and the experiment time is 24 hours. The high room temperature in the booth when dehumidifying is due to the heat generated by the dehumidifying device.

In each photograph, the medium is arranged in a circular petri dish, and the white-whited portion corresponds to the cultured bacteria. When the vaporized hypochlorous acid water was not sprayed ("No treatment" in the figure) and the vaporized hypochlorous acid water sprayed were compared, When the vaporized hypochlorous acid water was sprayed, the amount of the cultured bacteria was smaller. Furthermore, when spraying vaporized hypochlorous acid water, the amount of the cultured bacteria was smaller when dehumidification was performed than when dehumidification was not performed. It is worth noting that the room temperature when dehumidifying is 24 ° C., and the culturing of the bacteria is suppressed despite the fact that the bacteria are more likely to propagate than 12 ° C. when not dehumidifying.
From this experiment, the dehumidifying device 30 is provided in the second sterilizing device 2 as in the third embodiment, and the space 5 is dehumidified while releasing the vaporized hypochlorous acid water and dehumidifying the space 5. Can be seen to improve.

The driving conditions of the second sterilizer 2 vary depending on the object to be sterilized. Regarding conditions for supplying vaporized electrolyzed water to the space 5, for example, when sterilization in a short time is required, it is necessary to increase the supply amount per unit time. On the other hand, for example, when sterilizing over a long time during container transportation or storage in a warehouse, the supply amount per unit time may be small.
Regarding the humidity of the space 5, for example, when sterilizing an object that does not want to wet the surface, such as strawberries, the humidity is preferably 60% or less. Moreover, when storing the target object which needs moisturizing for a long period of time, it is desirable to set it as high humidity of 80%-95%.

Here, the advantages of the present embodiment will be described by comparison with the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating a state in which the vaporizer 26 of the second sterilization apparatus 2 illustrated in FIG. 4 is disposed in the space 5 surrounded by the wall portion 4. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the vaporizer 26 and the dehumidifier 32 of the second sterilizer 2 illustrated in FIG. 12 are arranged in the space 5 surrounded by the wall 4. Here, the amount [μg] of electrolyzed water supplied from the vaporizer 26 to the space 5 per unit time [min] is the supply amount QA [μg / m ² · min], and the vaporizer 26 per unit time [h]. The amount of electrolyzed water [L] that vaporizes is defined as the amount of vaporization QB [L / h · m ³ ], and the relative humidity of the space 5 is defined as humidity RH1 [%]. Further, the amount of water collected by the dehumidifier 32 from the space 5 per unit time is defined as the collected amount QC, and the relative humidity of the atmosphere blown to the vaporizer 26 is defined as the humidity RH2. In the configuration of FIG. 14 in which the dehumidifier 32 is not disposed, RH1≈RH2.

  FIG. 16 shows an example of temporal changes in the humidity RH1 and the supply amount QA when electrolytic water is continuously vaporized and released in the configuration shown in FIG. The bar graph shows the supply amount QA, and the line graph shows the humidity RH1. The horizontal axis represents the time T [min] at which the evaporated electrolyzed water was continuously released. The humidity RH1 increases with time T and eventually reaches 100%. In a state where the humidity RH1 reaches 100%, condensation occurs. Further, in a state where the humidity RH1 reaches 100%, the electrolytic water is hardly vaporized in the vaporizer 26, so that the supply amount QA is significantly reduced. If the vaporization by the vaporizer 26 is stopped at an arbitrary humidity, the humidity is kept constant when the space 5 is a sealed space, but the supply of electrolyzed water to the space 5 is also stopped. As described above, in the configuration that does not include the dehumidifier 32, it is difficult to achieve both the supply of vaporized electrolytic water to the space 5 and the maintenance of the humidity of the space 5.

  On the other hand, the configuration shown in FIG. 15 can solve this problem. FIG. 17 shows an example of temporal changes in the humidity RH1 and the supply amount QA when the electrolysis water is continuously vaporized and released in the configuration shown in FIG. By setting the vaporization amount QB by the vaporizer 26 and the recovery amount QC by the dehumidifier 32 to the same amount at an arbitrary humidity, the humidity RH1 of the space 5 is kept constant without stopping the supply of vaporized electrolyzed water to the space 5 Can be kept in. Furthermore, the humidity RH1 can be set to an arbitrary humidity by adjusting the vaporization amount QB and the recovery amount QC. The supply amount QA (vaporization amount QB) and the recovery amount QC are adjusted, for example, by changing the rotation speeds of the vaporization fan 27 and the dehumidifying fan 33 under the control of the controller 24.

  Further, with the configuration shown in FIG. 15, the supply amount QA can be increased while the humidity RH1 is kept constant by increasing the vaporization amount QB and the recovery amount QC while maintaining the same amount. FIG. 18 shows the supply amount QA (= vaporized electrolyzed water arrival amount) when the vaporization amount QB (= recovered amount QC) is changed while maintaining the humidity RH1 constant. It can be confirmed that the supply amount QA increases linearly by increasing the vaporization amount QB and the recovery amount QC by the same amount.

  FIG. 19 is a graph showing the relationship between the humidity RH2 and the supply amount QA when the humidity RH1 is high at 80 to 90%. Plot PA is a measurement result in the configuration shown in FIG. 14, and plot PB is a measurement result in the configuration shown in FIG. The humidity RH2 is 30 to 45% in the plot PB and 80 to 90% in the plot PA. As for the supply amount QA, the plot PB is more than twice the plot PA. Since these plots PA and PB can be approximated by a straight line as shown in the figure, the supply amount QA and the humidity RH2 have a linear relationship, and the supply amount QA increases as the humidity RH2 is lower.

  As described above, when the gas after the moisture is collected by the dehumidifier 32 is sent to the vaporizer 26 as shown in FIG. 15, the humidity RH2 of the gas blown to the vaporizer 26 is higher than the humidity RH1 of the space 5. Lower. And if it is the structure of FIG. 15, even if it is the same ventilation volume, compared with the structure which is not equipped with the dehumidifier 32 like FIG. 14, the supply amount QA and the vaporization amount QB can be increased.

  Note that, as described above, the compressor method and the desiccant method can be applied to the dehumidifying method of the dehumidifying device 30, but when these methods are applied, electric power for driving the compressor and the heater is required. Therefore, it is necessary to secure a drive power supply, but measures such as using a battery are necessary in an environment where supply of power is restricted. When a battery is used, the operation time is limited, so it is not suitable for long-time transportation. Further, due to the heat generated by the operation of the dehumidifying device 30, the temperature in the space 5 may be higher than the intended temperature.

  In order to deal with these problems, the dehumidifier 32 may be configured with a dehumidifier that does not require electric power, and the moisture of the air may be adsorbed by the dehumidifier when the air passes through the dehumidifier 32. As the dehumidifying agent, for example, zeolite, silica gel, alumina, activated carbon and the like can be used. By sufficiently increasing the amount of the dehumidifying agent used in the dehumidifier 32, the dehumidifying function can be maintained even during long-time transportation. Further, there is no temperature rise due to heating, and the configuration of the dehumidifying device 30 can be simplified.

(Fourth embodiment)
A fourth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment, the second embodiment, and the third embodiment in the configuration of the second sterilizer 2. The same elements as those in the above-described embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the second sterilizer 2 according to the present embodiment. The second sterilization apparatus 2 shown in this figure is that the dehumidifier 32 of the dehumidifier 30 is formed of a photocatalyst, and the dehumidifier 30 includes an ultraviolet lamp 35 (irradiation apparatus) that irradiates the dehumidifier 32 with ultraviolet rays. 12 is different from that shown in FIG.
As a photocatalyst forming the dehumidifier 32, for example, titanium oxide can be used. The ultraviolet lamp 35 is turned on and off under the control of the controller 24. When the dehumidifier 32 formed of the photocatalyst is irradiated with ultraviolet rays from the ultraviolet lamp 35, an organic gas (growth promoting gas) such as ethylene gas contained in the air taken in from the intake port 25a is generated due to its oxidizing action. Decompose.

The sterilization process using the second sterilization apparatus 2 according to the present embodiment can be performed in the same procedure as that shown in the flowchart of FIG. For example, the controller 24 continuously turns on the ultraviolet lamp 35 during the second sterilization step. Alternatively, the controller 24 may turn on the ultraviolet lamp 35 at a predetermined timing in the sterilization process, for example, when a dehumidifying operation is performed by the dehumidifying device 30.
The fruits and vegetables P are spoiled by ethylene gas, and the spoiled fruits and vegetables P generate ethylene gas. If it is the structure of this embodiment, since such ethylene gas can be removed with the dehumidifier 32 formed of the photocatalyst, the fruits and vegetables P can be kept fresher.
In addition, according to this embodiment, the same operation as that of the third embodiment can be obtained.

(Fifth embodiment)
A fifth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in the configuration of the vaporizer 23. The same elements as those in the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

FIG. 21 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer 23 according to the present embodiment. The vaporizer 23 shown in this figure is different from those shown in FIGS. 4, 10, 12, and 20 in that it includes cooling fins 40.
The cooling fins 40 are made of, for example, a metal material, and a plurality of cooling fins 40 are arranged in the vicinity of the exhaust port 25b. The gas discharged from the exhaust port 25b is cooled by the cooling fin 40, and water vapor contained in the gas is condensed. Moisture generated thereby adheres or falls to the cooling fin 40 as, for example, droplets. The vaporizer 23 may further include a container that receives water droplets falling from the cooling fin 40.

If it is the structure of this embodiment, the water | moisture content of the gas discharge | released from the exhaust port 25b to the space 5 by the cooling fin 40 will be removed, and the surface of objects, such as the packaging container 3 which accommodated fruit and vegetables P and fruit and vegetables P, will be wet. In addition, the humidity can be reduced and the humidity in the space 5 can be prevented from rising excessively.
In addition, you may provide the cooling fin 40 similar to this embodiment with respect to the 1st sterilizer 1 shown in FIG.3 and FIG.9.

(Sixth embodiment)
A sixth embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in the configuration of the vaporizer 23. The same elements as those in the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer 23 according to the present embodiment. The vaporizer 23 shown in this figure does not drop hypochlorous acid water into the vaporizer 26, but immerses the vaporizer 26 in the hypochlorous acid water stored in the housing 25. FIG. This is different from those shown in FIGS. 10, 12, and 20.

In the example of FIG. 22, the piping 21 is connected to the bottom wall (the wall portion on the lower side in the direction of gravity) of the casing 25, and hypochlorous acid water supplied through the piping 21 is below the casing 25. Accumulated. A part of the vaporizer 26 is immersed in hypochlorous acid water accumulated in the housing 25. The vaporizer 26 having a fine structure such as a honeycomb structure sucks up hypochlorous acid water in the housing 25 by a capillary phenomenon. The hypochlorous acid water sucked up in this way is efficiently vaporized in contact with air over a wide area due to the slight difference structure of the vaporizer 26.
Even if it is the structure of this embodiment, the effect | action similar to other embodiment can be acquired. The configuration disclosed in the present embodiment can also be applied to the spray device 13 of the first sterilizer 1.

(Seventh embodiment)
A seventh embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in the configuration of the vaporizer 23. The same elements as those in the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of the vaporizer 23 according to the present embodiment. The vaporizer 23 shown in this figure has a fan 27 disposed between the vaporizer 26 and the intake port 25a (or the communication hole 34a of the partition plate 34). This is different from that shown in FIG.
In such an arrangement, the wind sent by the fan 27 directly hits the carburetor 26, which is effective when a strong blow to the carburetor 26 is required. Further, when the fan 27 is located between the vaporizer 26 and the exhaust port 25b, the fan 27 is exposed to the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26 or the flying hypochlorous acid water. It is easy to corrode. On the other hand, according to the arrangement of the present embodiment, the fan 27 is not easily exposed to the gas vaporized by the vaporizer 26 or the flying hypochlorous acid water, and corrosion of the fan 27 can be suppressed. The configuration disclosed in the present embodiment can also be applied to the spray device 13 of the first sterilizer 1.

  Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. These embodiments and modifications thereof are included in the scope and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalents thereof.

For example, the second sterilization step disclosed in each embodiment may be executed not only during transportation of the fruits and vegetables P accommodated in the packing container 3 but also when stored after the arrival thereof.
In addition, the first sterilization step and the second sterilization step disclosed in each embodiment can be appropriately combined with other processes. For example, when the fresh food to be sterilized is one that can be washed like root vegetables, a washing process may be added instead of the first sterilization step or together with the first sterilization step.

In 2nd Embodiment, the example which vaporizes both hypochlorous acid water and alkaline water by one vaporizer 16 and 26 by the time division was shown. However, in each of the first sterilization apparatus 1 and the second sterilization apparatus 2, a vaporizer for hypochlorous acid water and a vaporizer for alkaline water may be provided separately.
In 3rd Embodiment, the example which the vaporizer 23 and the dehumidifier 30 share the one housing | casing 25 was shown. However, the vaporizing device 23 and the dehumidifying device 30 may be separate devices from which the casing is separated.

The second sterilizer 2 disclosed in each embodiment may further include an air conditioner function for controlling the temperature of the space 5. In this case, a temperature environment suitable for the fresh food disposed in the space 5 can be created, and the fresh food can be transported or stored more suitably.
The configurations disclosed in the embodiments can be combined as appropriate. For example, the second embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined to realize a sterilization apparatus having a function of neutralizing the space 5 and a function of dehumidifying the space 5, and the fourth embodiment. You may implement | achieve the sterilizer provided with the function which decomposes | disassembles the organic gas in the space 5 combining these.

  P ... fruits and vegetables, L1 ... sterilization place, L2 ... transport means, 1 ... first sterilization device, 2 ... second sterilization device, 3 ... packing container, 4 ... wall part, 5 ... space, 10, 20 ... tank, 11, DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 21 ... Piping, 12, 22 ... Pump, 13 ... Spraying device, 14, 24 ... Controller, 16, 26 ... Vaporizer, 17, 27 ... Fan, 23 ... Vaporizer.

Claims (24)

A storage method for storing an object in a predetermined space,
The electrolyzed water generated by electrolyzing the electrolyzed water is vaporized,
By circulating a vaporized substance of vaporized electrolytic water in the space, the space is sterilized,
Recovering moisture contained in the space;
A storage method characterized by that. When the humidity in the space becomes larger than a predetermined value, water is recovered from the space, and further evaporated electrolyzed water is supplied into the space.
The storage method according to claim 1. Recovering moisture contained in the space by dehumidifying the space;
The storage method according to claim 1. Detecting a relative humidity of the space by a humidity sensor, and controlling a vaporizing fan for vaporizing the electrolyzed water and a dehumidifying fan for dehumidifying the inside of the space according to the detected relative humidity;
The storage method according to claim 3. When the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor rises to a first threshold value lower than a predetermined saturated vapor pressure, dehumidification is performed, and the electrolyzed water is vaporized, whereby the electrolyzed water discharged into the space is discharged. Swap vaporizers,
The storage method according to claim 4. Dehumidification in the space and vaporization of electrolyzed water are performed so that the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor is in the range of 50% or more and less than 100% which is the saturated vapor pressure.
The storage method according to claim 5. Dehumidification in the space and evaporation of electrolyzed water are performed so that the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor is about 80%.
The storage method according to claim 6. Dehumidification is completed when the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor drops to a predetermined second threshold lower than the first threshold;
The storage method according to claim 5. The timing of evaporating the electrolyzed water is when dehumidification is not performed, and when dehumidifying is performed, evaporating of electrolyzed water is stopped.
The storage method according to claim 3. The evaporation of the electrolyzed water is performed constantly regardless of the timing of dehumidification execution.
The storage method according to claim 3. The evaporation of electrolyzed water and dehumidification in the space are performed with the same amount of electrolyzed water vaporized and the amount of water recovered from the space.
The storage method according to claim 3. In the state where the humidity of the space is kept constant by making the vaporization amount and the water recovery amount the same, the supply amount of the electrolyzed water to the space is increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing the vaporization amount and the water recovery amount. Control,
The storage method according to claim 11. A vaporizer for sterilizing the inside of the space by evaporating the electrolyzed water generated by electrolyzing the water to be electrolyzed and circulating the vaporized substance obtained by the vaporization in the space where the object is disposed; ,
A dehumidifying device for recovering moisture contained in the space;
A sterilizing apparatus comprising: The vaporizer is
A vaporizing member that absorbs electrolyzed water and vaporizes the absorbed electrolyzed water;
A vaporizing fan that discharges the gas vaporized by the vaporizing member into the space;
The sterilizer according to claim 13, comprising: The dehumidifying device collects moisture from the gas taken in from the space, and sends the gas after collecting moisture to the vaporizing member.
The sterilizer according to claim 14. The dehumidifier is
A condenser for condensing water vapor in the space;
A dehumidifying fan for sending the gas taken from the space to the condenser;
The sterilizer according to claim 14, comprising: A humidity sensor for detecting the relative humidity in the space;
Control means for controlling the vaporizing fan and the dehumidifying fan according to the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor;
The sterilizer according to claim 16, further comprising: The control means rotates the dehumidifying fan when the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor rises to a first threshold value lower than a predetermined saturated vapor pressure, and further rotates the vaporizing fan, thereby Replacing the vaporized substance of the electrolyzed water released inside,
The sterilizer according to claim 17. The control means stops the dehumidifying fan when the relative humidity detected by the humidity sensor decreases to a predetermined second threshold value lower than the first threshold value.
The sterilizer according to claim 18. The vaporizing member is a filter having a honeycomb structure that absorbs electrolyzed water,
The sterilizer according to claim 14. The condenser is formed by a photocatalyst;
The dehumidifying device further includes an irradiation device for irradiating the condenser with ultraviolet rays.
The sterilizer according to claim 16. A housing for accommodating the vaporizing member and the vaporizing fan, the condenser and the dehumidifying fan;
The sterilizer according to claim 16. A cooling fin that is provided in the vicinity of an exhaust port provided in the housing for discharging the evaporated electrolyzed water, and that condenses water vapor contained in the gas discharged from the exhaust port;
The sterilizer according to claim 22. The dehumidifying device includes a dehumidifying agent that adsorbs moisture in the space without requiring electric power.
The sterilizer according to claim 13.