RU2771020C9 - Freshness preservation device, frying device, spatial potential generator, water activation device, cultivation device, drying device, ripening device, growing device and air conditioner - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: food industry; agriculture; electrical engineering.

SUBSTANCE: spatial potential generator configured with the possibility of generating an AC electric field consists of an electrode part, to which primary AC voltage is applied; and a voltage application device that applies primary AC voltage to the electrode part to generate the AC electric field around an electronic part, while the voltage application device is equipped with: a transformer that includes a primary coil, to which secondary AC voltage is applied from an AC source, and a secondary coil magnetically connected to the primary coil; a feedback control circuit that feeds one terminal of the secondary coil back to one terminal of the primary coil to regulate the voltage of the secondary coil; an output control unit that is connected to another terminal of the secondary coil to transmit low-frequency vibration to an output of the secondary coil; and a voltage control unit that regulates a voltage value of primary AC voltage by switching the voltage value of tertiary AC voltage input from the AC power source from a set of voltage values and applying tertiary AC voltage having the switched voltage value to the primary coil as secondary AC voltage. The voltage control unit includes a resistance element and a switching element, while the resistance element is provided between a terminal of the primary coil and the AC power source, and an electrode part is connected to another terminal of the secondary coil through the output control unit. A freshness preservation device, consisting of a spatial potential generator and a space for preserving freshness, is prepared to preserve the freshness of perishable products, wherein an electrode part is provided in the space for preserving freshness, and an AC electric field is generated in the space for preserving freshness to preserve the freshness of perishable products located in the space for preserving freshness, in which the AC electric field is generated. A frying device consists of a spatial potential generator and an oil tank, in which oil is stored; wherein an electrode part is provided in the oil tank; and an AC electric field is generated. A device for processing water with currents consists of a spatial potential generator and a water tank, which is prepared for storing water, in which there is an electrode plate provided in the water tank, and an AC electric field is generated in the water tank to process water stored in the water tank with currents. A cultivation device consists of a spatial potential generator and a water tank that is prepared for storing water, in which there is an electrode plate provided in the water tank, and an AC electric field is generated in the water tank to cultivate aquatic organisms in the water tank, in which an AC electric field is generated. A drying device consists of a spatial potential generator and a drying cabinet, which is prepared for drying an object to be dried, in which there is an electrode part provided in the drying cabinet, and an AC electric field is generated in the drying cabinet for drying the object to be dried in the drying cabinet, in which an AC electric field is generated.

EFFECT: invention makes it possible to obtain a processing device capable of reducing the cost of commissioning and the cost of operating a freshness preservation device, a frying device and other various processing devices equipped with a spatial potential generator capable of further increasing the influence of an AC electric field that affects the operation of processing devices or the capability of controlling the target space.

18 cl, 26 dwg

Description

FIELD OF TECHNOLOGY

[0001] The present invention relates to devices for keeping fresh, frying, space potential generators, devices for activating water, devices for culturing (devices for compacting fish consistency), devices for drying, devices for maturation, devices for growing and conditioners.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Previously, there was a perishable food freshness keeping device, in the freshness keeping space of this device, an alternating current electric field prepared to keep the perishable food fresh is generated. The presence of this field allows the freshness of perishable products located in the freshness space to be maintained in the proper state while an alternating current electric field is generated in the freshness space. The above-described freshening apparatus is equipped with a space potential generator for generating an alternating current electric field inside the freshening space. The space potential generator is equipped with an electrode part provided in the freshness space and a voltage application device for supplying an alternating voltage to the electrode part.

[0003] International Publication No. 2015/122070 (Patent Document 1) discloses the technology of a freshness keeping device formed by a spatial potential generator configured to have: a transformer formed by magnetically connecting a primary coil and a secondary coil; a feedback control circuit that supplies one terminal of the secondary coil to one terminal of the primary coil to regulate the voltage of the secondary coil; an output control part that is provided at the other terminal of the secondary coil for transmitting low-frequency vibration to the output of the secondary coil; also a static electricity discharger which is formed of a conductive material and provided at the other terminal of the secondary coil through the output control part, wherein an electric field having a predetermined voltage is generated in the surrounding space of the static electricity discharger by the static electricity discharged from the static electricity discharger.

[0004] In addition, the above-described Patent Document 1 discloses a freshness keeping device technology in which an electric field is generated in a freshness keeping space by discharging static electricity from a static electricity discharger of a space potential generator, and the voltage is applied to items such as food stored in the freshness preservation space, which allows you to keep the freshness of these items.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[Patent Documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2015/122070

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[Problems to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The freshness storage device described above is equipped with a space forming part (for example, the space may be formed by a refrigerator) that forms the freshness storage space, an electrode part provided in the freshness storage space, and a voltage application device. The spatial potential generator formed by the electrode part and the voltage supply device keeps the freshness of perishable foods located in the freshness-keeping space by the action of an alternating electric field generated in the fresh-keeping space. Accordingly, the implementation cost and operating cost of the freshness keeping apparatus can be reduced, and the freshness of perishable foodstuffs can be efficiently maintained within the freshness keeping space by the action of the alternating current electric field generated by the space potential generator.

[0007] However, in the above-described freshness keeping apparatus, adjusting the amount of AC voltage applied to the electrode portion is not a simple task. Therefore, it is also quite difficult to determine the strength of the electric field of an alternating current generated by a spatial potential generator. This refers to the difficulty in adjusting this tension to a certain type, quantity and condition of packaging of perishable products, as well as to certain temperatures and humidity in space to maintain freshness. Thus, further increasing the effect of the AC electric field influencing the freshness process is difficult, or it is difficult to control the range of its influence, as well as control the increase / decrease in the target influence space.

[0008] In addition, when the freshening device is equipped with a space potential generator, the above-described problems of the difficulty of further enhancing the effect of the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator, the difficulty of controlling the range of influence, and the difficulty of controlling the increase/decrease of the target space are not limited to the freshness keeping device. For example, when a frying device, a water activating device, a culture device, a drying device, a ripening device, a growing device, or other various processing devices for processing objects to be processed have a spatial potential generator, it is difficult to further enhance the influence an alternating current electric field that affects the processing process that is performed using the processing device, or it is difficult to control the range of influence and control the increase / decrease in the target space.

[0009] The present invention is intended to solve the above-described problems and is directed to providing a processing device capable of reducing the cost of commissioning and operating cost of a fresh-keeping device, a frying device, and various other processing devices equipped with a spatial potential generator, capable of further increasing the effect of electric AC fields that affect the operation of processing devices, or the ability to control the target space.

[Means to solve the problem]

[0010] In the invention disclosed within the scope of the present invention, a brief description of typical embodiments will be explained as follows.

[0011] The freshness preservation apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention is a freshness preservation apparatus capable of generating an alternating current electric field in a freshness storage space prepared for preserving the freshness of perishable foodstuffs in order to preserve the freshness of perishable foodstuffs, located in a freshness preservation space in which an alternating current electric field is generated. The freshness storage device has: a space forming part that forms a freshness storage space; an electrode part that is provided in the freshness keeping space formed by the space forming part; and a voltage application device that applies a primary AC voltage to the electrode portion. The voltage application device has: a transformer that includes a primary coil to which a secondary AC voltage from an AC source is applied, and a secondary coil magnetically coupled to the primary coil; a feedback control circuit that feeds back one terminal of the secondary coil to one terminal of the primary coil to regulate the voltage of the secondary coil; and an output control unit that is connected to the other terminal of the secondary coil to transmit low frequency vibration to the output of the secondary coil. In addition, the voltage application device is equipped with a voltage adjusting unit that adjusts the voltage amount of the primary AC voltage by switching the voltage amount of the tertiary AC voltage supplied from the AC power supply with a plurality of kinds of voltage values, then the tertiary AC voltage having the switchable voltage amount , is applied to the primary coil as a secondary AC voltage. In addition, the electrode part is connected to the other terminal of the secondary coil through the output control unit.

[0012] In another embodiment, the voltage adjustment unit may include: a resistance element that is provided between the AC power source and the first terminal, which is one primary coil terminal or another primary coil terminal; and a switching element that switches depending on whether the first terminal is connected to the AC power supply through the resistance element or the first terminal is connected to the AC power source without operating the resistance element.

[0013] In another embodiment, in the freshness storage device, an AC electric field may be generated in the freshness storage space by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the freshness storage space, and the freshness of perishable foods can be maintained while the generated AC field is applied to perishable products.

[0014] In another embodiment, the voltage application device may apply a primary AC voltage having a frequency of 20 to 100 Hz to the electrode portion.

[0015] In another embodiment, the ground electrode may be omitted from the freshener (not provided).

[0016] In another embodiment, the current flowing through the secondary coil may be from 0.002 to 0.2 A.

[0017] In another embodiment, the electrode portion may be the first electrode, and the voltage application device may be electrically separated (not connected) to other electrodes than the first electrode. In addition, the electrode portion may have a plate portion including a main surface, and the plate portion may include a plurality of holes formed on the main surface. However, the electrode portion is not limited to a configuration having a plate portion. The electric discharge plate that serves as the electrode portion may be formed from a sheet laminated with aluminum foil or the like. In addition, an electric discharge plate that serves as an electrode portion (that is, an output sheet for AC power output) having a waterproof effect and formed in a sheet shape can only be formed with high voltage lines. Such an electric discharge plate has the same effect. In addition, when the electrode is attached to or in contact with various substances, the substance can serve as an electric discharge plate as well as an output part.

[0018] In another embodiment, the surface of the electrode portion may be coated with a photocatalyst or an oxygen catalyst.

[0019] In another embodiment, the space forming part may be a refrigerator, the freshness storage space may be formed in the refrigerator built into the wall or shelf, and the electrode part may be provided in the refrigerator. It should be noted that the space-forming part may be a freezer or a storage room used in a normal temperature environment, in addition to a refrigerator.

[0020] The frying apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention has: an oil tank in which oil is stored; the electrode part, which is provided in the oil tank; and a voltage application device that applies a primary AC voltage to the electrode portion to generate an AC electric field in the oil tank. The voltage application device has: a transformer that includes a primary coil to which a secondary AC voltage from an AC source is applied, and a secondary coil magnetically coupled to the primary coil; a feedback control circuit that feeds back one terminal of the secondary coil to one terminal of the primary coil to regulate the voltage of the secondary coil; and an output control unit that is connected to the other terminal of the secondary coil to transmit low frequency vibration to the output of the secondary coil. In addition, the voltage application device is equipped with a voltage adjusting unit that adjusts the voltage amount of the primary AC voltage by switching the voltage amount of the tertiary AC voltage supplied from the AC power supply with a plurality of kinds of voltage values, then the tertiary AC voltage having the switchable voltage amount , is applied to the primary coil as a secondary AC voltage. In addition, the electrode part is connected to the other terminal of the secondary coil through the output control unit.

[0021] In another embodiment, the voltage adjustment unit may include: a resistance element that is provided between the AC power source and the first terminal, which is one primary coil terminal or another primary coil terminal; and a switching element that switches depending on whether the first terminal is connected to the AC power supply through the resistance element or the first terminal is connected to the AC power source without operating the resistance element.

[0022] In another embodiment, in the fryer, an AC electric field may be generated in the oil tank by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the oil tank, and the generated AC electric field may be applied to the oil stored in the oil tank.

[0023] In another embodiment, the voltage application device may apply a primary AC voltage having a frequency of 20 to 100 Hz to the electrode portion.

[0024] In another embodiment, the ground electrode may be omitted from the fryer (not provided).

[0025] In another embodiment, the current flowing through the secondary coil may be from 0.002 to 0.2 A.

[0026] In another embodiment, the electrode portion may be the first electrode, and the voltage application device may be electrically separated (not connected) to other electrodes than the first electrode.

[0027] In another embodiment, the surface of the electrode portion may be coated with a photocatalyst or an oxygen catalyst.

[0028] A space potential generator according to one embodiment of the present invention is a space potential generator configured to generate an AC electric field. The spatial potential generator has: an electrode part, to which the primary alternating current voltage is applied; and a voltage application device that applies a primary AC voltage to the electrode portion to generate an AC electric field around the electrode portion. The voltage application device has: a transformer that includes a primary coil to which a secondary AC voltage from an AC source is applied, and a secondary coil magnetically coupled to the primary coil; a feedback control circuit that feeds back one terminal of the secondary coil to one terminal of the primary coil to regulate the voltage of the secondary coil; and an output control unit that is connected to the other terminal of the secondary coil to transmit low frequency vibration to the output of the secondary coil. In addition, the voltage application device is equipped with a voltage adjusting unit that adjusts the voltage amount of the primary AC voltage by switching the voltage amount of the tertiary AC voltage supplied from the AC power supply with a plurality of kinds of voltage values, then the tertiary AC voltage having the switchable voltage amount , is applied to the primary coil as a secondary AC voltage. In addition, the electrode part is connected to the other terminal of the secondary coil through the output control unit.

[0029] In another embodiment, the voltage adjustment unit may include: a resistance element that is provided between the AC power source and the first terminal, which is one primary coil terminal or another primary coil terminal; and a switching element that switches depending on whether the first terminal is connected to the AC power supply through the resistance element or the first terminal is connected to the AC power source without operating the resistance element.

[0030] In another embodiment, an AC electric field may be generated around the electrode portion by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion around the electrode portion.

[0031] In another embodiment, the voltage application device may apply a primary AC voltage having a frequency of 20 to 100 Hz to the electrode portion.

[0032] In another embodiment, the ground electrode may be omitted from the space potential generator (not provided).

[0033] In another embodiment, the current flowing through the secondary coil may be from 0.002 to 0.2 A.

[0034] In another embodiment, the electrode portion may be the first electrode, and the voltage application device may be electrically separated (not connected) to other electrodes than the first electrode.

[0035] In another embodiment, the surface of the electrode portion may be coated with a photocatalyst or an oxygen catalyst.

[0036] A device for activating water according to one embodiment of the present invention has: a spatial potential generator; as well as a water tank, which is prepared for storing water. The water tank has an electrode part. In the water activating device, an AC electric field is generated in the water tank to activate water stored in the water tank, in which the AC electric field is generated.

[0037] In another embodiment, in the water tank, an AC electric field may be generated by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the water tank, and the water may be activated while the generated AC field is applied to the water.

[0038] A culture apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention has: a spatial potential generator; as well as a water tank, which is prepared for storing water. The water tank has an electrode part. In the culture apparatus, an AC electric field is generated in the water tank to cultivate aquatic organisms in the water tank in which the AC electric field is generated.

[0039] In another embodiment, the AC electric field may be generated in the water tank by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the water tank, and the aquatic organisms may be cultured while the generated AC field is applied to the aquatic organisms.

[0040] A drying apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention has: a spatial potential generator; as well as a drying cabinet, which is prepared for drying the object to be dried. An electrode part is provided in the drying cabinet. In the drying apparatus, an AC electric field is generated in an oven for drying an object to be dried, in which an AC electric field is generated.

[0041] In another embodiment, in the dryer, an AC electric field may be generated in the drying cabinet by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the drying cabinet, and the drying object may be dried while the generated AC field is applied to the drying object.

[0042] The ripening device according to one embodiment of the present invention is equipped with a spatial potential generator. In the ripening space prepared for maturing the object to be matured, an electrode part is provided. The AC electric field is generated in a maturation space prepared for maturing an object to be matured inside the maturation space in which the AC electric field is generated.

[0043] In another embodiment, in the maturation space, an AC electric field may be generated in the maturation space by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the maturation space, and the object to be matured may be matured while the generated AC field is applied to the object to be matured. maturation.

[0044] The growth apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention is equipped with a spatial potential generator. An electrode part is provided around the growing object. In the growth apparatus, an AC electric field is generated around the growth object to grow the object to be grown around which the AC electric field is generated.

[0045] In another embodiment, in the growth apparatus, an AC electric field can be generated around the object to be grown by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion around the object to be grown, and the object to be grown can be grown while the generated AC field applied to the object to be grown.

[0046] An air conditioner according to one embodiment of the present invention is equipped with a space potential generator. An electrode part is provided in an air-conditioning space in which air-conditioning is performed, and an AC electric field is generated in the air-conditioning space to control the air temperature in the air-conditioning space in which the AC electric field is generated.

[0047] In another embodiment for an air conditioner, an AC electric field may be generated in the air conditioning space by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the air conditioning space, and the air temperature in the air conditioning space may be controlled while the generated AC field is applied to the air inside the air conditioning space.

[Invention Effects]

[0048] By applying an embodiment of the present invention, the influence of the AC electric field that affects the operation of the freshness keeper, fryer, or various other devices equipped with a space potential generator can be further increased, or the target space can be controlled. At the same time, the costs for the implementation and operation of processing devices are reduced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0049] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1.

Rice. 2 is a top view schematically showing an example of an electrode part equipped with a freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1.

Rice. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an example of the spatial potential generator of Embodiment 1.

Rice. 4 is a drawing showing that beef is defrosted after being frozen in a freezer of a refrigerator equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3.

Rice. 5 is a drawing showing a spring lobster (Japanese spiny lobster, Panulirus japonicus) being defrosted after being frozen in a refrigerator freezer equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3.

Rice. 6 is a drawing showing Hanna abalone (Haliotis Discus Hannai) being defrosted after being frozen in a refrigerator freezer equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3.

Rice. 7 is a drawing showing pork (wild boar meat) being thawed after being frozen in a freezer equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 4 and Working Example 4.

Rice. 8 is a drawing showing fish being defrosted after freezing in a store equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 5 and Working Example 5.

Rice. 9 is a drawing showing a chestnut stored in a store equipped with a freshness keeping device of Comparative Example 6 and Working Example 6.

Rice. 10 is a front view including a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the freshness keeping device of the first modified example of Embodiment 1.

Rice. 11 is a side view including a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the freshness keeping device of the second modified example of Embodiment 1.

Rice. 12 is a plan view schematically showing the freshness keeping device of the third modified example of Embodiment 1.

Rice. 13 is a side view schematically showing the freshness keeping device of the fourth modified example of Embodiment 1.

Rice. 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the frying apparatus of Embodiment 2.

Rice. 15 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the water activating device according to Embodiment 3.

Rice. 16 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a culture apparatus according to Embodiment 4.

Rice. 17 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a storage device according to Embodiment 5.

Rice. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a storage device according to Embodiment 5.

Rice. 19 is a drawing showing an installation stored in the storage device of Comparative Example 8 and Embodiment 8.

Rice. 20 is a drawing showing an installation stored in the storage device of Comparative Example 8 and Embodiment 8.

Rice. 21 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a dryer according to Embodiment 6.

Rice. 22 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a modified example of the dryer according to Embodiment 6.

Rice. 23 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the ripening apparatus according to Embodiment 7.

Rice. 24 is a graph showing the measured results of the content of glutamic acid contained in beef matured in the maturation apparatus of Comparative Example 12 and Working Example 12.

Rice. 25 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the growth apparatus according to Embodiment 8.

Rice. 26 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of an air conditioner according to Embodiment 9.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0050] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be explained with reference to the drawings.

[0051] Please note that the disclosure is only an example. Thus, a configuration that can be easily arrived at by a person skilled in the art by arbitrarily changing the disclosure while maintaining the scope of the invention is obviously included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, width, thickness, shape, etc. each part may be schematically shown in the drawings in comparison with the embodiments in order to offer a more precise explanation. However, the drawings are merely exemplary and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention.

[0052] In addition, in the description and drawings, the same reference symbol is assigned to the same element, provided that this element has been described previously, and a detailed explanation may be arbitrarily omitted.

[0053] In addition, in the drawings used in the embodiments, the shading (shading) added to distinguish the structure may be omitted in some of the drawings.

[0054] In the following embodiments, when the range is shown as "A-B (A to B)", this means that A or more and B or less, unless otherwise indicated.

[0055] (Embodiment 1)

First, the freshness keeping device and the space potential generator provided by the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1, which is an embodiment of the present invention, will be explained.

[0056] <Fresh Keeper>

First, the fresh-keeping apparatus according to Embodiment 1 will be explained. The fresh-keeping apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is a fresh-keeping apparatus capable of generating an alternating current electric field in a fresh-keeping space prepared for preserving the freshness of perishable foods, in for the purpose of preserving the freshness of perishable products located in the freshness storage space in which an alternating electric field is generated. In addition, the freshness preservation device according to Embodiment 1 is equipped with a space potential generator as an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field.

[0057] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a top view schematically showing an example of an electrode portion equipped with the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1.

[0058] Next, an example will be explained in which the freshness storage device according to Embodiment 1 is equipped with a refrigerator (for example, a conventional refrigerator for home use) as a space forming part prepared for forming a freshness storage space. However, as explained in the first modified example and the third modified example of Embodiment 1 described later, using FIG. 10 to 12, the freshness storage device according to Embodiment 1 may have space forming parts other than a refrigerator for home use as a space forming part prepared to form a freshness storage space. Alternatively, as explained in the fourth modified example of Embodiment 1 described below using FIG. 13, it is optional that the freshness keeping device in Embodiment 1 has a space forming portion prepared to form a freshness keeping space.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 1, the freshness storage device according to Embodiment 1 is equipped with a refrigerator 1, an electrode part 2, and a voltage application device 3. The refrigerator 1 is a space forming part prepared for forming a freshness storage space for 5 perishable foods (fresh foods) 4 and the freshness storage space 5 is formed in the refrigerator 1. As described above, as the refrigerator 1, for example, a conventional home-use refrigerator can be used. The electrode part 2 is provided in the freshness storage space 5 formed by (that is, determined, predetermined by) the space forming part. In other words, the electrode part 2 is provided in the refrigerator 1. The voltage supply device 3 is built into the rear surface of the refrigerator 1, for example. 3) to the electrode part 2. The spatial potential generator 6 is formed by the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 as an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field.

In addition, the electrode part 2 is a static electricity discharger for discharging static electricity in the freshness space 5. Namely, the electrode part 2 is a static electricity discharger equipped with a space potential generator 6.

[0060] The freshness storage device according to Embodiment 1 generates an AC electric field in the freshness storage space 5 (that is, around the electrode part 2) by discharging static electricity from the electrode part 2 into the freshness storage space 5, the freshness of perishable foods 4 is maintained , while the generated AC electric field acts on perishable products 4.

At this time, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate the water molecules contained in the perishable food 4 under the influence of an alternating current electric field. Thus, the cells in the perishable food 4 are activated, and the freshness of the perishable food 4 can be maintained for a long time.

[0061] It should be noted that perishable products in the description of the present invention include vegetables, fruits, flowers, trees, and other agricultural products, all agricultural products, including livestock products such as meat, and all aquatic products, including, for example, fish and seafood. .

[0062] As shown in Fig. 1, a space (i.e., freshness storage space 5) inside the refrigerator 1 is divided into three spaces by partition plates 11 and 12. A cooling compartment 13 is formed in the uppermost space, a refrigerator compartment 14 is formed in the middle space, and a vegetable compartment 15 is formed in the lowest space. Accordingly, in the example shown in Fig. 1, the freshness storage space 5 is formed by a cooling compartment 13, a refrigerator compartment 14, and a vegetable compartment 15.

[0063] The electrode part 2 is provided inside the separation plate 11, between the cooling compartment 13 and the refrigeration compartment 14, the electrode part serves as a static electricity discharger equipped with a space potential generator 6. In the above-described case, the separation plate 11 functions as an insulating member covering the surface of the electrode part 2. As described above, when the electrode part 2 is provided inside the separating plate 11, the electrode part 2 cannot be seen from the outside, and the sense of security is immediately enhanced. In addition, even when a large current flows through the electrode portion 2 by mistake, the user never directly touches the electrode portion 2. Thus, electric shock caused by direct contact can be prevented.

[0064] In addition, when the electrode part 2 is provided inside the separation plate 11, the intensity of the AC electric field in the cooling compartment 13 and the refrigeration compartment 14 will be stronger because these compartments are close to the electrode part 2, while the intensity of the AC electric field in The vegetable compartment 15 will be weaker since this compartment is separated from the electrode part 2. In this way, an AC electric field strength suitable for storing perishable food 4 can be obtained.

[0065] Although the electrode portion 2 is provided inside the separation plate 11 in the example shown in FIG. 1, the position at which the electrode portion 2 is provided is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1. Namely, the electrode portion 2 may be provided in a different position. For example, the electrode part 2 may be located inside the back plate, top plate, or other separation plates of the refrigerator 1.

[0066] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the electrode portion 2 is formed from a plate-shaped conductive material. In addition, the electrode portion 2 may be flat or curved.

[0067] As shown in Fig. 2, the electrode part 2 should preferably have a plate-shaped part 22 including the main surface 21. Due to this, the electrode part 2 can be easily installed, for example, inside the separation plate 11.

[0068] As shown in Fig. 2, the plate-shaped part 22 is more preferable, includes a plurality of recesses or holes (i.e., a plurality of holes 23) formed on the main surface 21. The shape of the holes 23 may be round, hexagonal, or the like when viewed in the direction perpendicular to the main surface 21 of the plate portion 22. When the plate portion 22 includes the above-described holes 23 having a round shape, a hexagonal shape, or the like, an AC electric field is concentrated around the holes 23, for example. Thus, static electricity can be easily discharged from the electrode part 2 to perishable products 4. It should be noted that the electrode part 2 is not limited to the electrode part having the plate part 22. For example, the electric discharge plate can be formed with an aluminum foil laminated sheet to serve as the electrode part 2. In addition, , output sheet (that is, you AC power output lead sheet) having a waterproof effect and having a sheet shape can only be formed by the action of the high voltage line, after which it can serve as the electrode part 2. Such an output sheet has the same effect. Various materials such as aluminum foil, copper, stainless materials, iron and carbon can be deposited when they are connected to the output part, regardless of the material's conductivity.

[0069] When a sheet-shaped output sheet is used as the electrode part 2, the water resistance of the electrode part 2 can be easily improved, the electrode part 2 can be made even lighter, the electrode part 2 can be easily mounted, or the thickness of the electrode part 2 can be easily reduced.

[0070] Although the output sheet may be formed using aluminum foil as described above, the output sheet may also be formed by carbon treatment. As for the output sheet formed by carbon treatment, for example, a mold having a length of 25 cm x 25 cm x a thickness of 1 mm can be used. The above-described exit sheet formed by carbon treatment has a weight of, for example, 80 g. The electrode part 2 can be further lightened, and the electrode part 2 can be easily mounted compared to an exit sheet based on other materials.

[0071] For the output sheet formed by carbon treatment, because the resistance of the electrode portion 2 decreases and the conductivity of the electrode portion 2 increases, the range affected by the AC electric field can be increased by about twice that of the range which is subjected to an alternating current electric field of an output sheet formed using other materials. In particular, in the output sheet formed by carbon processing, the resistance of the output sheet can be reduced to about 5-40 ohms. Thus, the effect obtained from the influence of the AC electric field when using the aluminum foil exit sheet at a distance of 3 m, when using the exit sheet formed by processing carbon, can be achieved at a distance as early as 5 m.

[0072] In addition, it is preferable that the so-called far-infrared ceramic, which is a far-infrared-emitting ceramic powder easily, is kneaded into the output sheet formed by carbon processing. For example, tourmaline can be used as ceramic. The particle diameter of the powder may be, for example, 200 µm. Since the above-described ceramic, called far-infrared ceramic, such as tourmaline, easily generates negative ions, the range of the AC electric field can be further extended. Alternatively, the output sheet formed by carbon treatment may be coated with a photocatalyst such as titanium oxide or an oxygen catalyst. Thus, the freshness-preserving effect can be further enhanced.

[0073] Alternatively, the electrode portion 2 may be formed inside the cooling compartment 13, the refrigerator compartment 14, and the vegetable compartment 15 instead of being placed in the inner partition. In the above-described case, the plate portion 22 includes holes 23 having a round shape, a hexagonal shape, or the like. When the air in the refrigerator 1 is circulated by the fan provided in the refrigerator 1, the electrode part 2 does not interfere with the air circulation, then the freshness keeping conditions including the electric field strength in each part of the cooling compartment 13, the refrigerator compartment 14 and the vegetable compartment 15 can be easily unified.

[0074] Alternatively, the electrode part 2 may have an insulating member on the main surface 21 of the plate portion 22 or on the opposite surface of the main surface 21. In addition, the surface of the plate portion 22 may be covered with an insulating member. Alternatively, the freshness keeping device may have an insulating member to cover the surface of the electrode portion 2. Because of this, an increased sense of security can be immediately felt compared to when the plate portion 22 is opened. In addition, even if a large current flows through the secondary coil by mistake, there is no risk of electric shock caused by direct contact. In addition, the formation of a corona discharge can be prevented.

[0075] Although a plurality of depressions or pits (ie, a plurality of holes) may be formed on the surface of the insulating member in the same manner as holes 23, the surface of the insulating member may be flat without forming holes. In this case, the electrode portion 2 must have a waterproof effect, and the plate portion 22 must be protected from contact with water.

In addition, the surface of the flat insulating member may be coated with a photocatalyst such as titanium oxide or an oxygen catalyst. When the above-described flat surface is provided and an insulating member on which a photocatalyst or the like is applied is provided, ethylene gas generated from the perishable food 4 can be removed in the cooling compartment 13, the refrigeration compartment 14, the vegetable compartment 15, and the like (i.e. e. in the space to maintain freshness 5). It should be noted that it will be sufficient that the surface of the electrode portion 2 be coated with a photocatalyst or an oxygen catalyst. Thus, the photocatalyst or oxygen catalyst may be applied to the surface of the insulating member, or may be applied to the surface of the electrode itself.

[0076] <Space Potential Generator>

Next, explanations will be given regarding the spatial potential generator of Embodiment 1. The space potential generator of Embodiment 1 is an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field. In addition, the space potential generator according to Embodiment 1 is a space potential generator attached to the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1.

[0077] Fig. 3 is a circuit diagram showing an example of a space potential generator according to Embodiment 1. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a transformer 31, a feedback control circuit 32, an output control unit 33, and an output terminal 34. The transformer 31 is equipped with a primary coil 35 and a secondary coil 36 that are magnetically coupled to each other.

[0078] An AC voltage VL2 is applied to the primary coil 35 by an AC power source.

In the example shown in fig. 3, a commercial power supply (not shown) connected to the AC input plug 37 is used as the AC power supply.

[0079] It should be noted that the circuit breaker 38 may be provided between the AC input plug 37 and the primary coil 35, and the switching element 39 may be provided between the circuit breaker 38 and the primary coil 35. In addition, the AC power supply obtained by converting the power of the secondary battery or the power of another DC source provided inside or outside the voltage application device 3 by the inverter circuit or other various AC power sources can be used as the AC power source.

[0080] One terminal 36a of secondary coil 36 is connected to one terminal 35a of primary coil 35 via feedback control circuit 32. In addition, feedback control circuit 32 controls the voltage of secondary coil 36. In other words, feedback control circuit 32 provides feedback to one terminals 36a of the secondary coil 36 to one terminal 35a of the primary coil 35 to adjust the voltage of the secondary coil 36.

[0081] The output control unit 33 is provided between the other output 36b of the secondary coil 36 and the output terminal 34. In addition, the output control unit 33 transmits low frequency vibration to the output voltage of the secondary coil 36. In other words, the output control unit 33 is connected to the other terminal 36b of the secondary coil 36 to transmit low frequency vibration to the output voltage of the secondary coil 36.

[0082] The electrode part 2 is connected to the output terminal 34 (i.e., the terminal opposite the other terminal 36b of the secondary coil 36 of the output control unit 33) through the power supply mechanism 24 (power line) (shown in Fig. 1) made of conductive wires. Accordingly, the electrode part 2 is connected to the other terminal 36b of the secondary coil 36 through the power supply mechanism 24 and the output control unit 33.

[0083] When the voltage application device 3 described above is used, the current generated on the side of the secondary coil 36 is fed back to the primary coil 35 by the reverse control circuit 32. Thus, a high voltage can be obtained on the side of the secondary coil 36 even when the number of coil turns. In addition, the feedback control circuit 32 and the output control unit 33 are configured to induce a delay in the circuit. As a result, a low-frequency vibration from 20 to 100 Hz is applied to the output of the secondary coil 36.

[0084] In addition, one terminal 36a of the secondary coil 36 is connected to one terminal 35a of the primary coil 35 through the feedback control circuit 32 to adjust the voltage of the secondary coil 36. As a result, the voltage application device 3 can be made in a small size.

[0085] As described above, the freshness storage device according to Embodiment 1 is configured to generate an alternating current electric field in the freshness storage space 5 prepared to keep the perishable food 4 fresh, in order to keep the freshness of the perishable food 4 located in the storage space. freshness 5, in which an alternating current electric field is generated. Specifically, an AC electric field is generated in the freshness space 5 by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion 2 into the freshness space 5, and freshness of the perishable food 4 is maintained while the generated AC electric field is applied to the perishable food 4.

[0086] At this time, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate the water molecules contained in the perishable food 4 under the influence of an alternating current electric field. Thus, cells in perishable foods 4 can be activated. In addition, when the perishable food 4 is decomposed, the perishable food 4 can be prevented from being oxidized, and the activity of bacteria can be suppressed by replenishing electrons, since the number of electrons is reduced when the perishable food 4 is oxidized. That is, when the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1 is used. implementation, and there is also a spatial potential generator 6, the freshness of perishable products 4 can be maintained for a long time due to the influence of an alternating current electric field.

[0087] In addition, when the cluster effect, negative electrons and positive electrons are charged on cells or the like in perishable foods 4, cell oxidation or the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the virus or the like is killed, viral growth can also be suppressed in perishable foods 4.

[0088] When an AC electric field is applied, chicken is not frozen until the temperature is -5°C, and beef and pork are not frozen until the temperature is -7°C. Thus, perishable foods can be stored at low temperature without freezing. Because of this, tissue destruction that occurs when a frozen object is thawed can be prevented. Thus, perishable foods can be stored for a long period of time without freezing while maintaining freshness.

[0089] In addition, the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1 is equipped with a refrigerator 1 (for example, a conventional refrigerator for home use), an electrode part 2, and a voltage application device 3. In addition, as described above, the freshness of perishable foods 4 can be maintained for a long time under the influence of an alternating current electric field. Accordingly, when the freshness preservation apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is used, the commissioning cost and the operation cost of the freshness preservation apparatus can be reduced, and the freshness of the perishable food 4 can be effectively maintained by subjecting the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6 .

[0090] In addition, in the freshness keeping apparatus according to Embodiment 1, a high voltage is generated at the output of the secondary coil 36, and a low frequency vibration is transmitted to the output of the secondary coil 36 by the feedback control circuit 32 and the output control unit 33. Accordingly, although the output signal is only one line of the terminal 36b, static electricity is discharged from the electrode part 2 towards the low potential part (for example, the ground part), and a high voltage alternating current electric field is generated around the electrode part 2 (in particular, in a region with a radius of approximately 1. 5 m and 360° around the electrode part 2). Because of this, it is not necessary to use two electrodes to generate an alternating current electric field around the perishable food 4. Accordingly, the configuration of the freshness preservation device can be simplified.

[0091] Namely, in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1, when the electrode part 2 is referred to as the first electrode, the voltage application device 3 is not necessarily connected to other electrodes other than the first electrode, and the voltage application device 3 does not need to apply voltage to others. electrodes other than the first electrode. Because of this, the freshness-keeping effect can be increased while keeping the perishable food 4 fresh, and the configuration of the freshness-keeping device can be simplified.

[0092] When an alternating current electric field is generated in a refrigerator divided into a plurality of compartments such as a refrigerator compartment, a vegetable compartment, and a freezer compartment, an electrode shelf should be installed in each compartment, or a pair of electrodes should be provided in a standard potential generator space .

[0093] On the other hand, in the freshness keeping apparatus of Embodiment 1, since the electrode part 2 functions as an antenna, the amplitude (i.e., voltage) of the applied AC electric field is not significantly reduced even in the freshness keeping space 5 on the separate part with respect to to the electrode part 2. Accordingly, although only one electrode is provided as the electrode part 2, the effect of suppressing cell oxidation or the like and the effect of killing the virus or the like in the perishable food 4, together with suppressing viral growth, can be obtained by accumulating the cluster effect , negative electrons and positive electrons on cells or the like in perishable products 4.

[0094] However, the strength of the AC electric field generated in the freshness keeping space 5 becomes larger as it approaches the electrode portion 2, and becomes smaller as it is separated from the electrode portion 2. Accordingly, according to the kind of perishable products 4 whose freshness is necessary save, the AC electric field strength may be small for some perishable products 4, and the AC electric field strength should be large for other perishable products 4. Thus, the best effect can be obtained by placing the electrode part 2 in an appropriate position according to the layout of the cooling compartment 13, fridge compartment 14 and vegetable compartment 15.

[0095] Preferably, AC voltage VL2 is supplied to primary coil 35 by an AC power source. Specifically, the voltage application device 3 supplies the AC voltage input from the AC power source to the primary coil 35 as the AC voltage VL2.

[0096] Alternatively, the battery can be used as the power supply of the voltage application device 3. Also in such a case, since the power consumption of the voltage application device 3 is low, the voltage application device 3 can be operated for three days, provided, for example, parallel connection of batteries D sixteenth size. Accordingly, the space potential generator 6 can also be applied to a space potential generator mounted on a vehicle or the like (i.e., a mobile space potential generator).

[0097] Preferably, the output control unit 33 applies a voltage having a frequency of 20 to 100 Hz to the output of the secondary coil 36. In other words, the voltage application device 3 applies an AC voltage having a frequency of 20 to 100 Hz to the electrode portion 2 Compared with the case where the voltage that the output control unit 33 supplies to the output of the secondary coil 36, namely less than 20 Hz or more than 100 Hz, and when the voltage that the output control unit 33 supplies to the output of the secondary coil 36, is 20- 100 Hz, water molecules contained in cells, etc. of the perishable food 4 can be effectively activated, the oxidation of cells or the like of the perishable food 4 can be effectively prevented, or the activity of the virus and the like in the perishable food 4 can be effectively suppressed.

[0098] It is preferable that the ground electrode is not equipped with a space potential generator 6. In other words, the ground electrode does not need to be equipped with a refresher.

Because of this, static electricity can be easily discharged from the electrode part 2 provided (connected) to the other terminal 36b of the secondary coil 36.

[0099] Preferably, the current flowing through the secondary coil 36 is between 0.002 and 0.2 A. Compared to the case where the current flowing through the secondary coil 36 is less than 0.002 A and when the current flowing through the secondary coil 36 is 0.002 A or more, water molecules contained in cells or the like in perishable substances 4 can be effectively activated, oxidation of cells or the like in perishable substances 4 can be effectively prevented, or when the activity of a virus or the like in perishable substances 4 substances 4 can be effectively suppressed. In addition, compared with the case where the current flowing through the secondary coil 36 exceeds 0.2 A, or when the current flowing through the secondary coil 36 is 0.2 A or less, the current flowing through the secondary coil 36 is weak current, there is no risk of electric shock.

[0100] When the spatial potential generator 6 of Embodiment 1 is used, only by installing one electrode part 2 in an arbitrary place such as a freezer, a refrigerator, a thawing chamber, a display case, a food storage chamber, an ISO (International Standards Organization) container , transport truck, normal temperature warehouse, fishing boat refrigerator/freezer and medical use refrigerator/freezer, a high voltage AC electric field can be formed in the entire space (storage, vehicle chamber) in which the electrode part 2 is installed. Accordingly, the freshness keeping function using an AC electric field can be cheaply and easily added to a desired location.

[0101] In addition, if the electrode portion 2 is embedded in a wall, ceiling, separation plate, or the like. freezer, refrigerator, defrosting compartment, display case, food storage compartment, ISO container, normal temperature warehouse, etc., the keep fresh function can be pre-added for freezer, refrigerator, defrosting compartment, display cabinet, food storage, ISO container, normal temperature warehouse, etc. In this case, since the electrode part 2 is embedded in a wall, ceiling, separation plate, etc., the appearance of the equipment is improved and the sense of security is increased compared to a state in which the electrode part 2 is not embedded in anything. In addition, since the wall, ceiling, partition plate, etc. function as an insulating material, no insulating material is required for the outer parts. Moreover, even if a high current flows by mistake, there is no risk of electric shock.

[0102] In the case of a large warehouse, where a plurality of shelves 8 m or more in length are installed in the warehouse, and the shelves can be moved to the right and left, so that the pallets placed on the shelves can be easily removed from the shelf by a forklift for transportation.

In the above case, since the electrode portion 2 is separately prepared for the shelves, the electrode part 2 can be easily installed even if the shelves are movable.

[0103] <Voltage Adjustment Unit>

The voltage application device 3 equipped with the space potential generator 6 of Embodiment 1 is further equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41. The voltage adjustment unit 41 adjusts the voltage amount for the AC voltage VL1 output to the output terminal 34 by switching the amount of AC voltage VL3 input from an AC power source with a plurality of kinds of voltage values that are different from each other, and supplies an AC voltage VL3 having a switchable voltage value to the primary coil 35 as an AC voltage VL2.

[0104] Because of this, the voltage value of the AC voltage VL1 can be easily adjusted by switching between two voltage values, such as high and low, or between three voltage values, such as high, medium, and low. Thus, in the freshness space 5, the strength of the AC electric field generated by the space potential generator 6 can be easily adjusted and set to an appropriate intensity according to the type, quantity and state of the package of perishable products 4, or according to temperature and humidity. 5. Accordingly, the influence of the AC electric field influencing the freshness preservation process can be further increased, or the influence range and increase/decrease of the target space can be controlled, while the commissioning cost and the operating cost freshness device is reduced.

[0105] Preferably, the voltage regulation unit 41 includes a resistance element 42 and a switching element 43. A resistance element 42 is provided between a terminal 35c (i.e. one terminal 35a or the other terminal 35b of the primary coil 35) and an AC power source (i.e. e. AC input plug 37). In the example shown in fig. 3, the other terminal 35b of the primary coil 35 is terminal 35c. However, one terminal 35a of primary coil 35 may be terminal 35c.

[0106] The switching element 43 switches, depending on whether terminal 35c is connected to an AC power source (i.e., AC input plug 37) via resistance element 42, or when an AC power source is connected to terminal 35c (i.e., to the AC input plug 37) without involving the resistance element 42. Because of this, the amount of AC voltage VL2 applied to the primary coil 35 can switch between the amount of AC voltage VL3 input from the power supply alternating current, and another voltage value, which is less than the value of the AC voltage VL3. Thus, the magnitude of the AC voltage VL1 output to the output terminal 34 can be easily switched between two kinds (strong and weak) of voltage magnitudes that are different from each other.

[0107] In addition, a variable resistance having a variable voltage value in a range with a center value of approximately 50 Ω can be used as the resistance element 42. Because of this, when the magnitude of the AC voltage VL2 applied to the primary coil 35 is switched to voltage value which is smaller than the AC voltage value VL3, the voltage value can be further changed. Thus, when the AC voltage value VL1 outputted to the output terminal 34 is easily switched between two types (strong and weak) of voltage values that are different from each other, the smaller voltage value can be further changed.

[0108] As shown in Fig. 3, the voltage regulation unit 41 may include a spark gap 44 that is connected in parallel with the resistance element 42. In this case, the switching element 43 switches depending on whether terminal 35c is connected to an AC power source (i.e., an input AC plug 37) through resistance element 42 and arrester 44, which are connected in parallel with each other, or when terminal 35c is connected to an AC power source (i.e., AC input plug 37), without involving resistance element 42 and spark gap 44, which are connected in parallel with each other. Because of this, for example, when the resistance element 42 is suddenly subjected to a large voltage as a result of, for example, lightning or the like, the current flowing through the resistance element 42 can be reduced because the resistance value of the arrester 44 suddenly decreases and the current is concentrated on the spark gap 44. Thus, combustion or the like of the resistance element 42 can be prevented.

[0109] <Influence of the AC electric field that affects the freshness-keeping process when the space-forming part is different from that provided by the refrigerator>

Here, the influence of the AC electric field affecting the fresh-keeping process by the fresh-keeping device will be explained in the case where the fresh-keeping device according to Embodiment 1 is equipped with a space forming part other than a refrigerator as a forming part. space, which is used to form a freshness preservation space.

[0110] First, a freshness keeping device without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 1, and a freshness keeping device (i.e., a freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as working example 1.

[0111] A storage space organized as a freshness storage space formed by a space forming part of each freshness storage apparatus of Comparative Example 1 and Working Example 1 had the following shape: length 5 m × width 6 m × height 2.5 m. , the four electrode parts 2 were installed on the side at a height of 1.5 m from the floor of both side walls in the longitudinal direction of the storage space, which was prepared as the freshness storage space 5. The electrode part 2 provided together with the freshness storage device of Working Example 1, was formed by an electrode plate having the following front shape: width 40 cm × length 25 cm. , placed in a storage place, became equal to 40 V due to static electricity, ra charged from the electrode part 2.

The day temperature was 30°C, the night temperature was 10°C, and the total amount of products was 3 tons. In addition, the products were stored in plastic boxes at the storage location and stacked at a height of 2 meters.

[0112] Next, a comparative test was carried out on storage tomatoes as storage products provided for each freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 1 and Working Example 1. The storage temperature was 10 to 30°C, and the storage period was s 1st to 8th day, when the start date of the test was determined to be 1st day.

[0113] As a result, in the tomatoes stored in the Comparative Example storage from day 1 to day 8, the weight loss was 30.34% (i.e. moisture loss), the tomatoes could not be eaten because they were rotten or had insects have evolved. However, in Working Example 1, the weight loss was 11.70% (ie moisture retained) and the tomatoes were perfectly fresh and edible. Namely, compared with Comparative Example 1, in Working Example 1, the weight reduction could be reduced by 74%.

[0114] Based on the test result described above, it was confirmed that the storage period of perishable foodstuffs 4 at normal temperature can be extended using the freshness preservation apparatus of Embodiment 1, where a space potential generator 6 is provided, the electrode part 2 is installed in the space to maintain 5, an AC electric field having an appropriate strength is generated in the freshness space 5 in which the electrode part 2 is installed, and perishable foods 4 are stored in the freshness space 5 in which the AC electric field is generated.

[0115] <Influence of AC electric field on the process of keeping fresh in the presence of a refrigerator>

Next, when the freshness-keeping apparatus of Embodiment 1 is equipped with a refrigerator as a space-forming part that is responsible for forming a fresh-keeping space, the influence of an AC electric field that affects the fresh-keeping process provided by the fresh-keeping apparatus will be explained.

[0116] First, a freshness keeping device without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 2, and a freshness keeping device (i.e., a freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as working example 2.

[0117] The freshness storage space formed in the refrigerator equipped with each freshness storage device of Comparative Example 2 and Working Example 2 was 80 cm wide × 150 cm high × 50 cm deep. freshness of Working Example 2 was formed using an electrode plate having a shape of 30 cm long x 15 cm wide x 1 mm thick. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of plastic (copolymerized acrylonitrile butadiene styrene resin, that is, ABS resin plate), which was an insulating material. The insulating member covering the upper surface of the electrode plate was 40 cm long × 35 cm wide × 4 mm thick, and the insulating member covering the lower surface of the electrode plate was 40 cm long × 35 cm wide × 4 mm thick.

[0118] Next, a comparative test was carried out for storing chicken as a product in a refrigerator provided on each freshness keeping device of Comparative Example 2 and Working Example 2. The voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 800 V, and the voltage directly served on the chicken was set to 30 V. The temperature in the refrigerator was 5°C, and the storage period was from the 1st to the 4th day, when the start date of the test was determined to be the 1st day.

[0119] As a result, the chicken stored in the refrigerator of Comparative Example 2 until the 4th day dripped (i.e., the flavor was expelled), the flavor was lost, and the color began to change. However, in Working Example 2, there was almost no dripping, the chicken remained fresh, and the color of the chicken remained virtually unchanged from the start date of the experiment.

[0120] In addition, a comparative test was conducted for storing spinach as a product in a refrigerator provided on each freshness keeping device of Comparative Example 2 and Working Example 2. The voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 800 V, and the voltage directly applied to the spinach was set to 30 V. The temperature in the refrigerator was 4°C and the storage period was from the 1st to the 19th day, when the start date of the test was determined as the 1st day.

[0121] As a result, the spinach stored in the refrigerator of Comparative Example 2 up to the 19th day was shriveled and the appearance changed noticeably. However, in working example 2, the spinach did not dry out, and the appearance did not change much.

[0122] Based on the test result described above, it was confirmed that the cooling period of the perishable food 4 can be extended using the freshness preservation apparatus of Embodiment 1, where a space potential generator 6 is provided, the electrode part 2 is installed in the freshness keeping space 5, an AC electric field having an appropriate strength is generated in the refrigerator 1 in which the electrode part 2 is installed, and perishable foods 4 are stored in the refrigerator 5 in which the AC electric field is generated.

[0123] <Storage Status of Perishable Foods Frozen in the Fresh Keeper>

Next, the storage state of perishable foods frozen in the freshness storage apparatus of Embodiment 1 will be explained.

[0124] First, a freshness keeping device without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 3, and a freshness keeping device (i.e., a freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1) equipped with a spatial potential generator 6 is defined as working example 3.

[0125] The freshness storage space formed in the refrigeration compartment of the refrigerator equipped with each freshness storage device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3 had a shape of 60 cm wide x 80 cm high x 45 cm deep. in the freshness preservation apparatus of Working Example 3 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape 10 cm long × 5 cm wide. is an insulating material. The insulating member covering the upper surface of the electrode plate was shaped as 12 cm long × 17 cm wide × 7 mm thick, and the insulating member covering the lower surface of the electrode plate was shaped as 12 cm long × 17 cm wide × 6 cm thick.

[0126] Next, a comparative test was conducted for storing beef as a product in the freezer compartment of a refrigerator equipped with each freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3. The temperature in the freezer compartment was -24°C and the storage period was from the 1st to day 7, when the test start date was determined to be day 1. In addition, the frozen beef was taken out on the 7th day and thawed at 4°C for 24 hours. Note that the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 1000V, and the voltage directly applied to the beef was set to 20V.

[0127] Fig. 4 is a drawing showing that beef is defrosted after being frozen in a freezer of a refrigerator equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3. On the left side of Fig. 4 shows a photograph of thawed beef after being frozen in the refrigerator freezer of Comparative Example 3. On the right side of FIG. 4 shows a photograph of thawed beef after being frozen in the freezer of the refrigerator of working example 3.

[0128] As shown on the left side of Fig. 4, 3.28% of the dripping liquid came out of the thawed beef in a weight ratio, and the flavor component came out in Comparative Example 3. On the other hand, as shown on the right side of FIG. 4, only 0.69% of the dripping liquid came out of the thawed beef by weight, and the beef remained fresh in working example 3.

[0129] In addition, a comparative test was conducted for storing spring lobster (spring lobster) as a product in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator installed on each freshness preservation apparatus of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3. The temperature in the freezer compartment was -24° C and the storage period was from the 1st to the 7th day, when the test start date was determined to be the 1st day. In addition, the frozen spring lobster (spring lobster) was taken out on the 7th day and thawed at room temperature. Note that the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 1800V, and the voltage directly applied to the spring lobster (spring lobster) was set to 30V.

[0130] Fig. 5 is a drawing showing a spring lobster (spring lobster) thawed after being frozen in a refrigerator freezer equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3. On the left side of FIG. 5 shows a photograph of a spring lobster (spring lobster) that has been thawed after being frozen in the refrigerator freezer of Comparative Example 3. On the right side of FIG. 5 shows a photograph of a spring lobster (spring lobster) thawed after being frozen in the refrigerator freezer of Working Example 3.

[0131] As shown on the left side of Fig. 5, lobster meat becomes friable, and the shape of the midgut (that is, part of the so-called shrimp intestines) of the thawed spring lobster (spring lobster) of Comparative Example 3 is friable. On the other hand, as shown on the right side of Fig. 5, the lobster meat of Working Example 3 was still firm, and the shape of the midgut of the thawed spring lobster (spring lobster) was preserved.

[0132] In addition, a comparative test was conducted for storing Hanna abalone as a product in a refrigerator freezer installed on each freshness preservation apparatus of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3. The temperature in the freezer was -24°C and the storage period was was from the 1st to the 7th day, when the trial start date was determined to be the 1st day. In addition, Hanna's frozen abalone was taken out on the 7th day and thawed at normal temperature. Note that the voltage applied to electrode part 2 was set to 2000V, while the voltage directly applied to Hanna's abalone was set to 25V.

[0133] Fig. 6 is a drawing showing Hanna's abalone thawed after being frozen in a refrigerator freezer equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 3 and Working Example 3. The upper part of FIG. 6 shows a photo of Hanna's abalone thawing after being frozen in the refrigerator freezer of Comparative Example 3. At the bottom of FIG. 6 shows a photograph of Hanna's abalone thawed after being frozen in the freezer of the refrigerator of working example 3.

[0134] As shown at the top of FIG. 6, the amount of liquid dripping was large, the shell meat became loose, and the liver in the thawed Hanna abalone of Comparative Example 3 was destroyed. On the other hand, as shown at the bottom of Fig. 6, the amount of liquid dripping was small, the friability of the shell meat was reduced, and the shape of the liver in the thawed Hanna abalone of Working Example 3 was preserved. In addition, in Comparative Example 3, when the thawed Hanna abalone was heated and cooked, the shell meat shrank, the particle appearance (i.e., granular surface shape) was poor (loose), and the texture of the food was soft. However, the hard texture in Working Example 3 is still there, even though the shell meat has shrunk.

[0135] When the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1 is used, water molecules can be frozen without destroying the cells through the cluster effect. In addition, since freshness can be maintained after freezing, compared with the case of quick freezing, there is no need to transfer frozen foods from quick freezing to a conventional freezer. Therefore, it is not necessary to install expensive devices such as a quick freezer. When the space potential generator 6 is installed in conventional freezing equipment, the cost of electricity and carbon dioxide emissions can be reduced.

[0136] Further, a freshness keeping device not equipped with a space potential generator but equipped with a freezer is defined as Comparative Example 4, and a freshness keeping device (i.e., a freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1) equipped with a space potential generator 6 and equipped with freezer was defined as Working Example 4. Then, a freezing test was conducted using each freshness keeping device of Comparative Example 4 and Working Example 4 by setting a constant temperature at -18°C. As a result, it was confirmed that ice crystals adhering to foodstuffs after freezing are large in Comparative Example 4, and ice crystals adhering to foodstuffs after freezing are small in Working Example 4. It is believed that the above-described effect can be obtained because the cluster of water molecules is smaller when it is frozen in the freshness preservation apparatus of Working Example 4. Thus, it was confirmed that foods could be frozen in the best way and without cell destruction by installing the spatial potential generator 6 in a conventional freezer.

[0137] In addition, even frozen food spoils after one month at -18°C in the freshness preservation apparatus of Comparative Example 4. Thus, when food has been stored in the freezer for one month or more, the stored food is frozen and cannot be suitable for food. On the other hand, in the freshness preservation apparatus of Working Example 4, freshness can be maintained even for one year. Moisture is retained by keeping fresh after freezing, and this ensures a high quality of frozen storage.

[0138] Fig. 7 is a drawing showing thawing of nutmeg after freezing in a freezer equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 4 and Working Example 4. On the left side of FIG. 7 shows a photograph of thawing nutmeg after being frozen in the freezer of Comparative Example 4 at -18°C for three months. On the right side of Fig. 7 shows a photograph of thawing nutmeg after being frozen in the freezer of Working Example 4 at -18°C for three months.

[0139] As shown on the left side of Fig. 7, the thawed nutmegs changed color from red to other colors and could not be eaten in Comparative Example 4. On the other hand, as shown on the right side of FIG. 7, the color of the thawed nutmeg almost did not change from red, the nut was in a fresh state in working example 4.

[0140] For example, with respect to an ISO container or a refrigerated truck, transportation by an ISO container at a temperature of -20°C from abroad is carried out within two weeks. When the space potential generator 6 is provided in a conventional freezer, it is possible to transport food in a refrigerated environment at -5°C while maintaining freshness. As a result, energy costs and carbon emissions can be reduced.

[0141] <Installation in a fishing boat>

Next, an application example of the freshness preservation apparatus of Embodiment 1 for storage provided in a fishing boat environment will be explained.

[0142] Typically, when the caught fish is stored in the storage area of the fishing boat, 7 days after the start of storage, a weight loss of 30% occurs. In summer, after 7 days from the start of storage, a weight loss of 50% occurred. Weight loss is closely related to deterioration in fish freshness. Thus, people tried to fight weight loss.

[0143] Meanwhile, the freshness preservation device according to Embodiment 1 was applied to the storage location provided on the fishing boat, as the freshness preservation device according to Working Example 5, the fish was stored at -1°C in the storage state, in the container of ICE foam, the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was 30 to 50 V, and the storage period was from the 1st to the 7th day, when the start date of the test was determined to be the 1st day. Meanwhile, a normal storage mode without a space potential generator was determined as a mode using a freshness keeping device in Comparative Example 5, and a fish storage comparison test was also conducted and freshness was compared in each freshness keeping device of Working Example 5 and Comparative Example 5.

[0144] The freshness storage space formed in the storage location equipped with each freshness storage device of Comparative Example 5 and Working Example 5 had a shape of 4 m wide x 3 m high x 5 m deep. with the freshness keeping device of Working Example 5 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape of 15 cm long × 25 cm wide. material. The insulating member covering the upper surface of the electrode plate was 25 cm long × 35 cm wide × 6 mm thick, and the insulating member covering the lower surface of the electrode plate was 25 cm long × 35 cm wide × 6 mm thick. An AC voltage was applied to the electrode portion 2 by the voltage application device 3, so that the voltage at the storage location became 20 V in the storage state, the storage location was an EPS container with ice, and the voltage applied to the products located at the storage location , became 20 V due to static electricity discharged from the electrode part 2.

[0145] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing fish thawed after freezing in a storage facility equipped with a freshness preservation device of Comparative Example 5 and Working Example 5. On the left side of FIG. 8 shows a photograph of fish thawed after being frozen at the storage location of Comparative Example 5. On the right side of fig. 8 shows a photograph of fish thawed after being frozen at the storage location of working example 5.

[0146] When comparing the left side of Fig. 8 with the right side of fig. 8, the fish eye color was white in Comparative Example 5, while the fish eye color was black in Working Example 5. Thus, the eye color of the stored fish of Comparative Example 5 and Working Example 5 was completely different. This means confirmation of the fact that the freshness of the fish stored in the storage location can be improved by applying the freshness keeping agent of option 1 to the storage location provided in the fishing boat.

[0147] <Chestnut Keep Fresh Effect>

Next, the chestnut freshness keeping effect when the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1 is used will be explained.

[0148] First, a freshness keeping device without a space potential generator is defined as a comparative example 6, and a freshness keeping device (i.e., a freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1) equipped with a spatial potential generator 6 is defined as a working example 6.

[0149] The freshness storage space formed in the storage location equipped with each freshness storage device of Comparative Example 6 and Working Example 6 had a shape of 50 cm wide x 50 cm high x 45 cm deep. freshness keeping apparatus of Working Example 6 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape 15 cm long × 25 cm wide. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of plastic (PE insulating material. The insulating member covering the upper surface of the electrode plate was 25 cm long × 35 cm wide × 6 mm thick, and the insulating member covering the lower surface of the electrode plate was 25 cm long × 35 cm wide × 6 mm thick. An AC voltage was applied to the electrode part 2 by the voltage application device 3, so that the voltage at the storage location became 100 V in the state where 1 kg of chestnut was stored in the plastic tray, and the voltage applied to the products located at the storage location became 120 B due to static electricity discharged from the electrode part 2.

[0150] Next, a comparative test was conducted for storing chestnut as a food product in a storage location that can be used as a storage location at normal temperature, a cold store, and a freezer storage, and which is provided on each device to keep the freshness of Comparative Example 6 and a working example 6. Thus, were compared changes in appearance and sugar content.

In Comparative Example 6, the storage temperature was normal, or 5°C, and the storage period was one month to two months. In Working Example 6, the temperature at the storage location was 0° C. or -2° C., and the storage period was from one month to two months. In addition, a test was carried out under the same conditions for three test samples, that is, for each sample from comparative example 6 and working example 6.

[0151] Fig. 9 is a drawing showing a chestnut stored in a storage place equipped with a freshness keeping device of Comparative Example 6 and Working Example 6. On the left side of FIG. 9 shows a photograph of a chestnut stored for 1.5 months at the storage location of Comparative Example 6 at normal temperature. On the right side of Fig. 9 shows a photograph of a chestnut stored for 2 months in the storage location of Working Example 6 at -2°C.

[0152] As a result, it was noted that fungus (mold) was formed on the surface of all three test samples of chestnut stored in Comparative Example 6 at normal temperature after one month, and the average value of the sugar content of the three samples was 2.5. The fungus was too large after 1.5 months and the sugar content could not be measured.

One of the three samples, after 1.5 months of testing, is shown on the left side of Fig. 9.

[0153] In the chestnut stored in the storage location of Comparative Example 6 at 5°C, after one month, no noticeable change was observed in all three test samples, and the average sugar content of the three test samples was 6.93. The fungus was too large after 1.5 months and the sugar content could not be measured.

[0154] On the other hand, in the chestnut stored in the storage location of Working Example 6 at ordinary temperature, fungus was observed to form on the surface of all three test samples after one month, and the average sugar content of the three test samples was 4.46. The fungus was too large after 1.5 months and the sugar content could not be measured.

[0155] In the chestnut stored in the storage location of Working Example 6 at 0°C, after one month, no noticeable changes were observed in all three test samples, and the average sugar content of the three test samples was 6.26. In addition, no noticeable change was seen in all three test samples even after two months, and the average sugar content of the three test samples was 11.26.

[0156] In the chestnut stored in the storage location of Working Example 6 at -2°C, after one month, no noticeable changes were observed in all three test samples, and the average sugar content of the three test samples was 6.53. In addition, no noticeable change was seen in all three test samples even after two months, and the average sugar content of the three test samples was 21.43. One of the three tested samples, after 2 months of testing, is shown on the right side of Fig. 9.

[0157] As shown in the above-described difference in fungus formation and comparison of the left side in Fig. 9 and the right side in fig. 9, it was confirmed that the chestnut freshness-preserving effect could be remarkably improved when the chestnut was stored using the freshness-keeping apparatus of Embodiment 1. In addition, as shown in the above-described difference in sugar content value, it was confirmed that the sugar content could be significantly increased when the chestnut was stored using the freshness preservation apparatus of Embodiment 1. It is believed that the above-described effect can be achieved because the chestnut can be stored for a long time in a state in which the freshness of the chestnut is maintained.

[0158] <Voltage Control Unit Influence>

When the refrigerator in which the freshness storage space is formed is further divided into a plurality of spaces by a partition plate, an electric discharge plate must be added to serve as the electrode part 2. However, in such a case, the voltage may be insufficient. For example, when the freshness storage space 5 is formed in a large warehouse, the wiring for connecting the electrode portion 2 to the voltage application device 3 needs to be extended. However, the voltage may not be sufficient if the wiring length is 10m, 20m or 30m.

[0159] On the other hand, when the voltage adjusting unit 41 of the fresh-keeping apparatus according to Embodiment 1 is used, the fresh-keeping space 5 having a more stable fresh-keeping effect can be formed by adjusting the voltage and applying the adjusted voltage to the electric discharge plate that serves as as an electrode part 2 for generating an alternating current electric field. Namely, a common problem was that by adding an electric discharge plate that serves as the electrode portion 2, the voltage decreased. However, when the voltage adjusting unit 41 of the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1 is used, the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 is increased by adjusting the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 even when the freshness keeping space 5 is large. the freshness preservation space can be obtained throughout the freshness storage space 5. Conversely, even when the area of the freshness storage space 5 is small, electricity leakage can be prevented and an alternating current electric field can be generated by applying a voltage to the electric discharge plate that serves as the electrode portion 2 , according to the amount of space to keep fresh 5.

[0160] <First Modified Example of Embodiment 1>

Rice. 10 is a front view including a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the freshness keeping device of the first modified example of Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 10, the freshness storage device of the first modified example is equipped with a prefabricated refrigerator 51 which serves as a space forming part for forming the freshness storage space 5 instead of the refrigerator 1 (shown in Fig. 1) which serves as a refrigerator for home use.

[0161] In addition, similar to the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1, the freshness keeping device in the first modified example is equipped with an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3, and a space potential generator 6 is formed by an electrode part 2 and a voltage supply device 3. The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness preservation device of the first modified example may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness preservation device of Embodiment 1. Thus, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0162] In the first modified example, the electrode portion 2 is configured to hang from the ceiling 51a of the holding refrigerator 51. Due to this, the freshness of perishable products 4 (such as food) stored in the holding refrigerator 51 can be maintained for a long time.

Thus, the commissioning cost and operating cost of the freshness keeping apparatus can be reduced, and the freshness of perishable foodstuffs 4 can be maintained for a long time in the freshness keeping space 5 by the action of the AC electric field generated by the space potential generator 6. Although rice. 10, the illustration is omitted, the electrode portion 2 is covered with an insulating member.

[0163] Preferably, the electrode portion 2 can be located approximately in the center of the freshness storage space 5 formed in the refrigerator assembly 51. By doing so, the AC electric field can be evenly generated in the refrigerator collection 51 (i.e., in the freshness storage space 5) .

[0164] In addition, also in the first modified example, as in Embodiment 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Because of this, also in the first modified example, as in Embodiment 1, the voltage value for the AC voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) can be switched within two voltage values, such as high and low voltage, or within three values voltage, such as high, medium and low voltage. Thus, the most appropriate condition can be adjusted and indicated according to the kind, quantity, and packaging state of the perishable food 4 (such as food) stored in the collection refrigerator 51, or according to the temperature and humidity in the freshness storage space 5. Accordingly, the effect of the AC electric field influencing the freshness keeping process provided by the freshness keeping device can be further increased, or the target space can be controlled while the commissioning cost and maintenance cost of the freshness keeping device will be reduced.

[0165] <Second Modified Example of Embodiment 1>

Rice. 11 is a side view including a partial cross-sectional view schematically showing the freshness keeping device of the second modified example of Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 11, the freshness preservation device of the second modified example is installed in the refrigerator car 52 instead of the refrigerator 1 (shown in Fig. 1) which serves as a refrigerator for home use. The freshness storage device in the second modified example is equipped with a refrigerator 53 located in the vehicle, which serves as a space forming part within the freshness storage space formation 5. The refrigerator car 52 is equipped with a cooler 52a and a cold air opening 52b.

[0166] In addition, similar to the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1, the freshness keeping device in the second modified example is equipped with an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3, and a space potential generator 6 is formed by an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3. The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of the second modified example may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and the voltage applying device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1. Thus, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0167] In the second modified example, the refrigerator car 52 is cooled by the vehicle refrigerator 53 by sending cold air from the refrigerator 52a into the freshness storage space 5 formed in the automobile refrigerator 53, for example, through the cold air opening 52b.

[0168] In the second modified example, the electrode part 2, which serves as a static electricity discharger of the spatial potential generator 6, is provided on the ceiling 53a of the automobile refrigerator 53. Due to this, the storage period of perishable products 4 (for example, food) stored in the automobile refrigerator 53 , can be extended. Thus, the commissioning cost and operating cost of the freshness keeping apparatus can be reduced, and the freshness of perishable foodstuffs 4 can be maintained for a long time in the freshness keeping space 5 by the AC electric field generated by the space potential generator 6. Although rice. 11, this illustration is omitted, the electrode part 2 is covered with an insulating member. In addition, the voltage application device 3 is connected to a battery (not shown) of the refrigerator car 52.

[0169] Preferably, the electrode part 2 can be located approximately in the center of the freshness storage space 5 formed in the vehicle refrigerator 53. Due to this, the AC electric field can be uniformly generated in the vehicle refrigerator 53 (that is, in the freshness storage space 5).

[0170] In addition, also in the second modified example, as in Embodiment 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Because of this, also in the second modified example, as in Embodiment 1, the voltage value for the AC voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) can be switched within two voltage values, such as high and low voltage, or within three values voltage, such as high, medium and low voltage. Thus, the most suitable condition can be adjusted and indicated according to the kind, quantity and packaging condition of perishable products 4 (for example, food) stored in the refrigerator of the vehicle 53, or according to the temperature and humidity in the freshness preservation space 5 Accordingly, the effect of the alternating current electric field affecting the freshness keeping process provided by the freshness keeping device can be further increased, or the target space can be controlled, while the commissioning cost and maintenance cost of the fresh keeping device can be reduced.

[0171] <Third Modified Example of Embodiment 1>

Rice. 12 is a top view schematically showing the freshness keeping device of the third modified example of Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 12, the freshness storage apparatus of the third modified example is equipped with a plurality of open-type racks for displaying products 55 prepared in the store 54, which serve as a space forming part forming a freshness storage space 5 instead of the refrigerator 1 (shown in Fig. 1), which serves as a refrigerator for home use. The plurality of product display racks 55 includes product display racks 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d.

[0172] In addition, similar to the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1, the freshness keeping device in the third modified example is equipped with an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3, and a space potential generator 6 is formed by an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3. The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of the third modified example may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and the voltage applying device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1. Thus, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0173] In the third modified example, the electrode part 2, which serves as a static electricity discharger of the spatial potential generator 6, is provided in the wall part of the store 54 in the area adjacent to the display racks 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d. Although the illustration in Fig. 12 is omitted, the electrode part 2 is covered with an insulating member.

[0174] In the third modified example, the space potential generator 6 operates at night when the store 54 is closed, for example, to generate an AC electric field around the product display racks 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d. Due to this, the storage period of perishable products 4 (for example, food) displayed in each of the freshness storage spaces 5 of the product display racks 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d can be extended. Thus, the commissioning cost and the operating cost of the freshness keeping device can be reduced, and the freshness of the perishable food 4 can be maintained for a long time under the action of the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6.

[0175] In addition, also in the third modified example, as in Embodiment 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Because of this, also in the third modified example, as in Embodiment 1, the voltage value for the AC voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) can be switched within two voltage values, such as high and low voltage, or within three values voltage, such as high, medium and low voltage. In this way, the most appropriate condition can be adjusted and indicated according to the kind, quantity, and packaging state of the 4 perishable products (such as food) displayed in each of the freshness preservation spaces 5 of the product display racks 55a, 55b, 55c, and 55d, or according to the temperature and humidity in the fresh-keeping space 5 Accordingly, the effect of the AC electric field affecting the fresh-keeping process provided by the fresh-keeping device can be further increased, or the target space can be controlled while the cost commissioning and operating costs of the freshness preservation device will be reduced.

[0176] <Fourth Modified Example of Embodiment 1>

Rice. 13 is a side view schematically showing the freshness keeping device in the fourth modified example of Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. 13, the freshness storage device in the fourth modified example does not have a portion that would be used to form the freshness storage space 5 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0177] In addition, similar to the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1, the freshness keeping device in the fourth modified example is equipped with an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3, and a space potential generator 6 is formed by an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3. The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of the fourth modified example may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and the voltage applying device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1. Thus, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0178] On the other hand, the freshness keeping device in the fourth modified example is equipped with a supporting member 56 for supporting the electrode portion 2, which serves as a static electricity discharger of the spatial potential generator 6.

[0179] As shown on the left side of Fig. 13, the support member 56 may be a support member 56a, which is an electrode portion 2 placed vertically on the floor 57. suitable position.

[0180] In addition, as shown on the right side of Fig. 13, the support member 56 may be the support member 56b, which is the electrode portion 2 suspended from the ceiling 58. In such a case, the support member 56b is attached to the ceiling 58 by the fixing portion 56c. When the above-described support member 56b is used, the installation location of the electrode part 2 becomes wider, and the electrode part 2 can be installed in a more suitable position.

[0181] (Exercise 2)

<Fryer>

Next, the situation of the frying apparatus of Embodiment 2 will be explained. The frying apparatus according to Embodiment 2 is equipped with a space potential generator that serves as an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field.

[0182] Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the frying apparatus of Embodiment 2. As shown in FIG. 14, the frying apparatus of embodiment 2 is equipped with an oil tank 61, an electrode part 2, and a voltage application device 3. The oil 61a is stored in the oil tank 61. The electrode part 2 is located in the oil tank 61, and is preferably immersed in the oil 61a stored in the oil tank. 61. Voltage application device 3 applies AC voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) to the electrode part 2 to create an AC electric field in the oil tank 61. Spatial potential generator 6 generates an AC electric field, which is created in the oil tank 61 at electrode part 2 and voltage application device 3.

[0183] It should be noted that the oil tank 61 is not necessarily provided on the fryer of Embodiment 2. In such a case, the fryer equipped with only the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 is used in combination with the oil tank.

[0184] The electrode portion 2 and voltage application device 3 provided in the frying apparatus of Embodiment 2 may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness maintaining apparatus of Embodiment 1. Thus, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0185] In the frying apparatus 2, the oil tank 61 and the space potential generator 6 are provided in combination, and static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 to the oil tank 61. Thus, an alternating current electric field is generated in the oil tank 61, and the products 61b are fried while the generated AC electric field is applied to the oil 61a stored in the oil tank 61. Because of this, the commissioning cost and maintenance cost of the fryer can be reduced, and the freshness of the oil 61a for frying the food 61b in the oil 61a stored in the oil tank 61 can be effectively stored under the influence of the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6.

[0186] In addition, just like the freshness preservation apparatus of Embodiment 1, the frying apparatus of Embodiment 2 is equipped with a space potential generator 6 with an electrode portion 2, as well as a voltage application apparatus 3. Also , like the freshness device in variant 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Because of this, the AC electric field strength in the oil tank 61 can be easily adjusted and set to an appropriate intensity according to the type of oil 61a and the type and amount of foods 61b that are fried in the oil 61a stored in the oil tank 61. Accordingly, the influence of the electric the AC field applied to the frying process by the fryer can be further increased, while the cost of commissioning and operating costs of the fryer are reduced.

[0187] <Influence of AC electric field on the frying process>

Next, the influence of the AC electric field on the frying process with the frying apparatus according to Embodiment 2 will be explained.

[0188] First, a fryer without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 7, and a fryer (that is, a fryer according to Embodiment 2) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 7. In addition, , as the electrode portion 2 provided in the fryer of Working Example 7, the electrode portion was used in a state where the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode portion were covered with an insulating member. A comparative continuous frying test was conducted with the same number of test samples in the oil tank as provided in each fryer of Comparative Example 7 above and Working Example 7. Thus, color and odor in the oil tank were compared.

[0189] Six liters of oil were stored in the oil tank provided in each fryer of Comparative Example 7 and Working Example 7. Further, the electrode portion 2 provided in the fryer of Working Example 7 was formed by an electrode plate shaped with a flat surface 5 cm long x 10 cm wide x 1 mm thick. Both the top and bottom surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) Teflon (registered trademark), which is an insulating material. A PTFE material having a heat resistance resistant to a temperature of 260°C was used. One or both of the top and bottom surfaces of the insulating material covering both surfaces of the electrode plate were 1 cm long x 1 cm wide x 5 mm thick. Note that the electrode part 2 can be built into the fryer, and the insulated installation surface can be covered to prevent current leakage.

[0190] The power supply device 24 for connecting the output terminal 34 (shown in Fig. 3) of the voltage application device 3 to the electrode part 2 was covered with an insulating member made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) Teflon (registered trademark).

The above-described PTFE material also had a heat resistance providing resistance to a temperature of 260°C. It should be noted that the fryer of Comparative Example 7 and the fryer of Working Example 7 were installed so that they were separated from each other by 4 m, so as not to interfere with each other.

[0191] In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 was set to 800 V, and the voltage directly applied to the oil 61a stored in the oil tank 61 was set to 800 V.

[0192] In particular, 300 g of chicken (with powdered starch) was continuously fried until the total amount of chicken reached 28 kg, then the condition of 61a oil was compared in terms of color, smell, AC (acid value), POV ( peroxide value) and the amount of acrylamide produced. Color was judged by visual observation. The odor was assessed based on a sensory assessment performed by an odor assessor, which is a Japanese national qualification approved by the Ministry of the Environment. The acid number is a reference value commonly used to judge the degree of deterioration in Japan. Although the peroxide value is not a reference value commonly used to measure spoilage, the peroxide value was measured to confirm the effect from various aspects.

[0193] With regard to acrylamide, the Food Safety Commission of the Japanese Cabinet Food Safety Commission is currently studying the risk of acrylamide as a food chemical and assesses acrylamide as a "genotoxic carcinogen" in a draft evaluation. In addition, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) reported in the "FDA Action Plan for Acrylamide in Foods" that acrylamide, which carries the risk of being a carcinogen and the possibility of causing genetic damage, can be formed in processed food. . In addition, on April 24, 2002, a joint research team consisting of members of the Swedish National Food Authority and scientists from Stockholm University published a report stating that when food was cooked by frying or grilling raw materials containing a lot of carbohydrates, at a high temperature of 120°C or more, food containing acrylamide was produced. As explained above, since acrylamide may be a carcinogen, the amount of acrylamide formed was also confirmed.

[0194] In the above state, the same amount of food was continuously fried in each fryer of Comparative Example 7 and Working Example 7 for three days to keep the fried state substantially the same. The used oil was then collected to compare each of the test samples listed above. The internal temperature after frying was measured with a thermometer, the internal temperature was 75°C.

[0195] As a result, compared with Comparative Example 7, the oil spoilage suppression effect was more pronounced in Working Example 7 for all test items: color, odor, acid value, and peroxide value. In addition, it was confirmed that the amount of acrylamide produced was reduced to a quarter in Working Example 7 compared to Comparative Example 7.

[0196] With regard to color, the color difference between Comparative Example 7 and Working Example 7 was compared from the 2nd day after the start of the test. Here, the color difference is a value that fully compares the difference between oil before cooking and oil after cooking using the L * a * b * color system, where L stands for brightness, +a stands for red, -a stands for green, +b stands for yellow, -b stands for blue, depending on the direction. According to NBS units of the US National Bureau of Standards), the color difference value (ΔE) is considered large when the color difference value is 6.0 or more.

[0197] As a result, the color of the oil in the fryer of Working Example 7 was brighter than that of the oil in the fryer of Comparative Example 7, and the color difference was 6.43. Thus, it was confirmed that in Comparative Example 7, the oil from the fryer deteriorated to a greater extent.

[0198] In addition, a plurality of inspectors, including an odor evaluation technician, evaluated the smell of oil between the oil in the fryer of Comparative Example 7 and the oil in the fryer of Working Example 7. and an odor indicative of something being fried were weak in the oil of the fryer of Working Example 7. Thus, it was confirmed that the odor of fried chicken or the like was transferred to the oil to a lesser extent.

[0199] In addition, the oil in the fryer of Working Example 7 was compared with the oil in the fryer of Comparative Example 7 by visual observation. As a result, black spots and bubbles were seen in Comparative Example 7. Also, when 200 g of potatoes were additionally fried after the above test in Comparative Example 7, when the last 100 g of potatoes were fried, the oil smoke was like bath steam. Thus, the working environment was deteriorated, sticky spots and bad smell were confirmed. On the other hand, in Working Example 7 no bubbles were visible and the surface of the oil was smooth.

[0200] In addition, regarding the assessment of the amount of peroxide, a test was conducted to fry 200 g of potatoes for three days, and then a comparison was made of the state of the oil between the fryer of Working Example 7 and the fryer of Comparative Example 7. As a result, although the oil peroxide value of the fryer of Working Example 7 was 1.89, the oil peroxide value of the fryer of Comparative Example 7 was 2.77. Thus, it was confirmed that the fryer of Working Example 7 suppressed deterioration by 32% compared to the fryer of Comparative Example 7.

[0201] In addition, with regard to acrylamide, the amount of acrylamide contained in fried potatoes when 100 g of potatoes were further fried after the above test was compared between the fryer of Working Example 7 and the fryer of Comparative Example 7. As a result, the content of acrylamide in the potato , fried in the fryer of Comparative Example 7 was 425 µg/kg, while the acrylamide content of potatoes fried in the fryer of Working Example 7 was 113 µg/kg. It was confirmed that the amount of acrylamide contained can be reduced by up to a quarter in the fryer of Working Example 7 compared to the fryer of Comparative Example 7. the world. Therefore, it is very important that the amount of acrylamide contained can be reduced by using the spatial potential generator 6.

[0202] Then, a comparative test was conducted to add 80 g of potatoes to the oil stored in the oil tank of each fryer of Comparative Example 7 and Working Example 7, then the temperature was set to 170° C. to fry the potatoes, and the change in oil condition was compared.

[0203] As a result, in the fryer of Comparative Example 7, product water infiltrated oil by combining and emulsifying with oil. On the other hand, in the fryer of Working Example 7, since the oil combined with electrons and did not combine with water, the water in the product immediately evaporated and did not enter the oil. Therefore, the temperature of the oil always remained constant, and the time required for frying could be reduced. In addition, water in the form of water vapor evaporated only from the fryer of Working Example 7. Therefore, the oil mist around the fryer can be reduced. Therefore, the oil does not remain in the form of traces in the kitchen and in the store, the kitchen and store can be kept in proper sanitary condition. In addition, evaporation of oil can be suppressed in the fryer of Working Example 7. Therefore, the smell of oil generated when frying food can be suppressed. For example, oil is prevented from sticking to the clothes of customers in a store.

[0204] In addition, a comparative test was conducted on frying frozen chicken using each frying apparatus of Comparative Example 7 and Working Example 7, and a comparison was made of the elapsed time.

[0205] 6 liters of oil was stored in an oil tank provided in each fryer of Comparative Example 7 and Working Example 7. In addition, the temperature was set to 165°C, the temperature at the center of the fried chicken was measured on both fryers of Comparative Example 7 and Working Example 7 after 2 minutes and 30 seconds, and after 3 minutes, for comparison purposes.

[0206] As a result, the temperature at the center of the fried chicken was 83.6°C after 2 minutes and 30 seconds, and 95°C after 3 minutes in the fryer of Working Example 7. On the other hand, the temperature at the center of the fried chicken was 34.6°C after 2 minutes and 30 seconds, and 80°C after 3 minutes in the fryer of Comparative Example 7. From the above, it was confirmed that in the fryer of Working Example 7, the thermal conductivity was higher and the time required for frying, reduced.

[0207] In addition, when the space potential generator 6 was installed in a fryer used in a real store, when using 405 liters (22.5 cans) of oil per month, the frying temperature could be lowered from 180°C to 170°C after installation of a spatial potential generator 6. Because of this, the oil used in the store could be reduced to 108 liters (6 cans) per month. Waste oil volume reduced by 73%. In addition, the time required for frying has been reduced by 10% or more. Thus, the work efficiency has been improved.

[0208] As explained above, when the frying apparatus of Embodiment 2 equipped with the space potential generator 6 provided in the oil tank 61 was used, an alternating current electric field was generated in the oil tank 61 by the space potential generator 6, the thermal conductivity of the oil increased, and the food to be fried become crispy. Thus, the best effect was obtained. In addition, oil smoke was prevented because the water evaporated. Thus, the worker in the kitchen did not feel pain in his eyes.

[0209] (Exercise 3)

<Water activation device>

Next, explanations will be given on the water activating apparatus of Embodiment 3. In the water activating apparatus of Embodiment 3, an AC electric field is generated in the water tank, and the water stored in the water tank in which the AC electric field is generated is electrolytically treated and is activated. In addition, the water activating device according to Embodiment 3 is equipped with a space potential generator that serves as an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field.

[0210] Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the water activating device according to Embodiment 3. As shown in FIG. 15, the water activating device of Embodiment 3 is equipped with a water tank 62, an electrode part 2, and a voltage application device 3.

The water 62a is stored in the water tank 62. The electrode part 2 is provided in the water tank 62, preferably the electrode part is immersed in the water 62a stored in the water tank 62. The voltage application device 3 supplies an AC voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) to the electrode portion 2 to generate an alternating current electric field in the water tank 62. The space potential generator 6 for generating an alternating current electric field generates in the water tank 62 by means of the electrode portion 2 and the voltage application device 3.

[0211] It should be noted that the water tank 62 is not necessarily provided on the water activation device in Embodiment 3. In such a case, the water activation device equipped with only the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 is combined with the water tank, and water is subjected to electrolytic treatment and activated. In addition, even when the electrode portion 2 is not immersed in the water 62a, a similar effect can be obtained as if the electrode portion 2 is immersed in the water 62a.

[0212] The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the water activating device according to Embodiment 3 may be the same as the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1. Thus , a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0213] The water activation device of Embodiment 3 is provided by combining the water tank 62 and the space potential generator 6, and static electricity is discharged from the electrode part 2 to the water tank 62. Thus, an AC electric field is generated in the water tank 62, and the water 62a is activated while the generated AC electric field is applied to the water 62a stored in the water tank 62. Because of this, the commissioning cost and operating cost of the fryer can be reduced, and the freshness of the water 62a stored in the water tank 62 can be effectively activated by the action of the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6.

[0214] When water is electrolyzed by applying a DC voltage between two electrodes, an active anode (eg, OH) is generated at the anode, and various organic substances are oxidized by the generated active oxygen. Hydrogen (H+) is generated at the cathode, and various organic substances are reduced by the generated hydrogen. Alternatively, when water such as sea water containing chloride ion (Cl-) is electrolyzed by applying a DC voltage between two electrodes, hypochlorous acid (HClO) is formed at the anode, and bacteria and the like are oxidatively decomposed by formed hypochlorous acid. Alternatively, when water containing chloride ion and ammonia nitrogen (NH3) is electrolyzed by applying a DC voltage between two electrodes, the ammonia nitrogen reacts and becomes harmless nitrogen (N ₂ ).

[0215] On the other hand, only one electrode portion 2 is provided on the water activating device of Embodiment 3. Also, in such a case that an AC voltage is applied to the electrode portion 2, the electrode portion 2 alternately and repeatedly serves as an anode and a cathode. Accordingly, hydrogen and active oxygen are generated from the electrode part 2 when water is electrolyzed, hypochlorous acid is generated when water containing chloride ion is hydrolyzed, and nitrogen is generated when water containing chloride ion and ammonia nitrogen (NH ₃ ).

[0216] Because of this, organic matter may be oxidized and removed when various organic matter exists in the water 62a stored in the water tank 62; bacteria and the like can be oxidatively decomposed and sterilized when bacteria and the like exist in the water 62a; also ammonia nitrogen can be converted to nitrogen and removed when water 62a contains ammonia nitrogen. Namely, the water 62a stored in the water tank 62 can be activated.

[0217] In addition, just like the freshness preservation device according to Embodiment 1, the water activating device according to Embodiment 3 is equipped with a space potential generator 6 with an electrode portion 2, as well as a voltage application device 3. Just like the freshness device in embodiment 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Because of this, the strength of the AC electric field in the water tank 62 can be easily adjusted and set to an appropriate intensity according to the type and amount of organic matter and bacteria present in the water 62a, as well as the amount of ammonia nitrogen present in the water 62a. Accordingly, the influence of the AC electric field exerted on the activation process which is performed by the water activation device can be further increased, while the commissioning cost and maintenance cost for the water activation device are reduced.

[0218] <Influence of the AC electric field on the activation process>

A test was carried out to grow 15 goldfish having a length of 15 cm x a width of 2 cm x a height of 10 cm in a water tank 62 measuring 80 cm long x 2 m wide x 50 cm high for six months.

[0219] The electrode portion 2 provided in the water tub 62 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape 5 cm long x 10 cm wide x 1 mm thick. Both the top and bottom surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) Teflon (registered trademark), which is an insulating material. One or both of the top and bottom surfaces of the insulating material covering both surfaces of the electrode plate were 1 cm long x 1 cm wide x 5 mm thick. Please note that the electrode plate may have other shapes. In addition, the electrode plate can be built into the wall of the water tank, and the installation surface can be covered to prevent current leakage.

[0220] An alternating current electric field of 2200 V was applied to the electrode plate, and a test was made to grow 15 goldfish for six months as described above. Cleaning was not carried out during all six months, the filter was also not cleaned at all. In addition, no light was applied to the filter, a dark environment was created, closed from sunlight. Food was given once or twice a day, and the goldfish were reared in the usual way.

[0221] As a result, no stains were formed on the inner surface of the water tank after six months, and a clean state was maintained. In addition, the water did not become cloudy, and there was no strange mass in the water tank and in the filter. Thus, the best effect can be obtained.

As described above, when the voltage is adjusted according to the size of the water tank and the amount of water, a suitable environment for the target aquatic organism can be formed. In addition, since the electrode plate can be installed in the water tank 62, fish cells can be activated and the health of the fish themselves can be improved. When an alternating current electric field is generated by an electrode plate having two poles, it cannot be used in the state where the fish is in the water tank. However, as described above, when the AC electric field is generated by the single-pole electrode plate, it can be used in the state where the fish is inside the water tank 62. Namely, when the water activation device of Embodiment 3 is used, the water is activated and purified by electrolysis.

[0222] <Voltage Regulator Influence>

When the voltage adjustment unit 41 of the water activation device of Embodiment 3 is used, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 can be adjusted according to the size of the water tank and the number of fish. When the intensity of the alternating current electric field applied to an aquatic organism such as a fish is too strong, it may have a harmful effect on the aquatic organism. However, when the voltage adjusting unit 41 of the water activating device of Embodiment 3 is used, water can be activated without adversely affecting the aquatic body.

[0223] (Exercise 4)

<Cultivation device>

Next, explanations will be given on the culture apparatus (cultivation apparatus, fish strengthening apparatus) of Embodiment 4. The culture apparatus of Embodiment 4 generates an AC electric field in the water tank, and the aquatic organism is cultured in the water tank, in which an alternating current electric field is generated. In addition, the culture apparatus of Embodiment 4 is equipped with a space potential generator that serves as an electric field generation device for generating an alternating current electric field.

[0224] Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the culture apparatus of Embodiment 4. As shown in FIG. 16, the cultivation apparatus of embodiment 4 is equipped with a water tank 63, an electrode part 2, and a voltage application device 3. Water 63a, such as sea water, is stored in the water tank 63. The electrode part 2 is located in the water tank 63, and is preferably immersed in water 63a stored in a water tank 63. A voltage application device 3 applies an AC voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) to the electrode part 2 to create an AC electric field in the water tank 63. A spatial potential generator 6 generates an electric an alternating current field, which is created in the water tank 63 using the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3.

[0225] It should be noted that the water tank 63 is not necessarily provided on the culture apparatus of Embodiment 4. In such a case, the culture apparatus equipped with only the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 is used in combination with the culture water tank aquatic organisms.

[0226] The electrode portion 2 and voltage application device 3 provided in the culture apparatus of Embodiment 4 may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping apparatus of Embodiment 1. Thus, the detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0227] In the cultivation apparatus of Embodiment 4, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 to the water tank 63. Thus, an AC electric field is generated in the water tank 63, and an aquatic organism 63b such as a fish is cultivated in while the generated AC electric field is applied to the aquatic body 63b. At this time, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate the water molecules contained in the aquatic body 63b by the action of the AC electric field. Thus, the cells of the aquatic organism 63b are activated, and the aquatic organism 63b can be cultured together with the activation of the viability of the aquatic organism 63b.

[0228] In addition, the cultivation apparatus of Embodiment 4 is equipped with a conventional water tank 63, an electrode portion 2, and a voltage supply device 3. In addition, as described above, the aquatic organism 63b can be cultured while the viability of the aquatic organism 63b is activated by the action of the AC electric field. Accordingly, when the culturing apparatus according to Embodiment 4 is used, the commissioning cost and the operating cost of the culturing apparatus can be reduced, and the aquatic body 63b can be efficiently cultivated by exposure to the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6.

[0229] In addition, when the voltage application device 3 is not equipped with a ground electrode, and the electrode portion 2, which serves as a static electricity discharger, is covered with an insulating material, no corona discharge is generated, and the static electricity discharged around the electrode portion 2 does not cause dielectric breakdown. In addition, although the electrode portion 2 physically vibrates at a low frequency, the AC electric field also propagates and propagates around the electrode portion 2 in accordance with the low frequency vibration. Thus, the electric field can be generated over a wide range.

[0230] In conventional two-electrode electrical processing, the current magnitude was high (i.e., 10 to 20 A) and the electrodes could not be inserted into the water tank because there was a risk of electric shock to an aquatic organism such as a fish or a human performing cultivation work. Therefore, the sterilization treatment was performed by applying a high voltage between two electrodes provided separately from the water tank in a state where sea water or fresh water taken from the water tank passes through the electrodes. However, stability was not ensured because the sterilization treatment was carried out only when water was circulating outside the water tank.

[0231] On the other hand, when the culture apparatus according to Embodiment 4 is used, since an AC voltage which has a low voltage and a low frequency is applied to the electrode portion 2, there is no risk of electric shock to the water body 63b or the person. Thus, the use of the culture device can be considered safe. In addition, since the cells are activated, the viability of an aquatic organism 63b such as a fish reared in the water tank 63 can be activated. Specifically, when a fish whose scales had changed color to black and which had not undergone an activation process/behaved sluggishly was placed in the water tank 63 for cultivation, the blackening of its scales disappeared and the fish became active on the 5th day, while the culture start date was defined as day 1.

[0232] In addition, just like the freshness preservation apparatus of Embodiment 1, the culture apparatus of Embodiment 4 is equipped with a space potential generator 6 with an electrode portion 2, as well as a voltage application apparatus 3. Thus In the same way as the freshness preservation device in Embodiment 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Because of this, the strength of the AC electric field in the water tank 63 can be easily adjusted and set to an appropriate intensity according to the kind and amount of cultivated aquatic organisms 63b. Accordingly, the influence of the AC electric field exerted on the culturing process performed by the culturing apparatus can be further increased, while the commissioning cost and maintenance cost for the culturing apparatus are reduced.

[0233] <Voltage Regulator Influence>

When the voltage adjustment unit 41 of the culture apparatus of Embodiment 4 is used, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 can be adjusted according to the size of the water tank and the number of fish. When the intensity of the alternating current electric field applied to an aquatic organism such as a fish is too strong, it may have a harmful effect on the aquatic organism. However, when the voltage adjusting unit 41 of the cultivation apparatus of Embodiment 4 is used, the aquatic organism can be cultivated without being adversely affected.

[0234] (Exercise 5)

<Storage device>

Next, explanations will be given regarding the storage device of Embodiment 5. In the storage device of Embodiment 5, an AC electric field is generated in the storage space for a stored object to be stored therein, the object itself is stored in the storage space in which the AC electric field is generated, while the freshness of the stored object is maintained.

[0235] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of a storage device according to Embodiment 5. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the storage device according to Embodiment 5. Note that the illustration of the power supply device 24 is omitted from FIG. eighteen.

[0236] As shown in Fig. 17 and fig. 18, in the normal temperature storage location in Embodiment 5, there is a normal temperature storage location 64. The normal temperature storage location 64 is a space forming portion for forming a storage space 64b in which a storage object 64a to be stored is stored. The storage space 64b is formed in a normal temperature storage space 64. The normal temperature storage space has a shelf board 64c, this storage space can be used as a normal temperature storage space 64, for example.

[0237] In addition, similar to the freshness keeping device according to Embodiment 1, the storage device in Embodiment 5 is equipped with an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3, and a space potential generator 6 is formed by an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3. The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the storage location of Embodiment 5 may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1. Thus, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0238] In Embodiment 5, the electrode part 2 is provided to hang from the ceiling 64d of the normal temperature storage place 64. The electrode part 2 is equipped with a sheet (sheet-like) electrode 2a as an output sheet (electric discharge sheet or discharge sheet) which has soft and foldable. The sheet electrode 2a is glued to the screen 64f, which is capable of being wound around the winding portion 64e. When the space potential generator 6 is used, the sheet electrode 2a is suspended integrally with the screen 64f extended from the winding portion 64e. When the space potential generator 6 is not used, the sheet electrode 2a is wound by the winding portion 64e integrally with the screen 64f. The sheet electrode 2a exhibits the effect of an alternating current electric field on the front and rear surfaces of the sheet electrode 2a. The screen 64f can be hung and wound manually using a remote control 64g or the like, or it can be automatically controlled depending on temperature, time, and the like.

[0239] Because of this, the freshness of the object 64a stored in the storage location at the normal temperature 64 can be maintained for a long time. Thus, the commissioning cost and the operating cost of the storage device can be reduced, and the freshness of the object to be stored 64a can be maintained for a long time in the storage space 64b by the AC electric field generated by the space potential generator 6. Although in Fig. . 17 and fig. 18, this illustration is omitted, the electrode portion 2 is covered with an insulating member. In addition, the normal temperature storage space of 64 can be a storage space that is as small as a home use refrigerator.

[0240] Preferably, the electrode portion 2 can be positioned approximately in the center of a plan view of the storage location 64b formed by the normal temperature storage location 64. Due to this, the AC electric field can be uniformly generated in the normal temperature storage location 64 (i.e., in storage space at normal temperature 64b).

[0241] In addition, as in the freshness preservation device according to Embodiment 1, the storage device according to Embodiment 5 is equipped with a space potential generator 6 with an electrode portion 2, as well as a voltage application device 3. Also , like the freshness device in embodiment 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). As a result, the AC electric field strength in the normal temperature storage location 64 can be easily adjusted and set to the appropriate intensity according to the type and quantity, the packaging condition of the object 64a to be stored, and the specific temperatures and humidity in the storage space 64b. . Accordingly, the influence of the AC electric field affecting the storage process performed by the storage device can be further increased, the influence range can be controlled, or the target space can be increased/decreased, while the commissioning cost and the cost storage device usage may be reduced.

[0242] <Influence of the AC electric field on the storage process>

Next, the influence of the AC electric field on the storage process using the storage device according to Embodiment 2 will be explained.

[0243] First, a storage device without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 8, and a storage device (i.e., the storage device of Embodiment 5) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 8. In addition, In order to study the true effect of the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator, as the electrode part 2, the electrode part 2 provided in the freshness keeping apparatus of Working Example 8, which was not covered with insulating material on both the upper and lower surfaces, was used.

[0244] A comparative test was conducted to compare the state of preservation of a plant placed in a vase in a state where approximately half of the vase was filled with water, and the vase was placed in a storage location at a normal temperature of 64 provided in each storage device of the above comparative example 8 and working example 8. Thus, the state of conservation was compared on the 8th day, when the start date of the test was determined as the 1st day. Here, the temperature of a normal temperature storage location provided in each storage device of Comparative Example 8 and Working Example 8 was 20 to 30°C. In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 was set to 2000 V, and the voltage directly applied to the plant was set to 50 V.

[0245] Fig. 19 and fig. 20 are drawings showing a plant stored in the storage device of Comparative Example 8 and Working Example 8. On the left side of FIG. 19 is a photograph showing a plant on the 8th day of storage in the storage device of Comparative Example 8. On the right side of FIG. 19 shows a photograph of a plant on the 8th day of storage in the storage device of working example 8. In addition, on the left side of fig. 20 shows a photograph of a plant on the 8th day of storage in the storage device of Comparative Example 8. On the right side of FIG. 20 shows a photograph of the plant at day 8 of storage in the storage device of working example 8.

[0246] As shown on the left side of Fig. 19 and on the left side of fig. 20, in the plant stored in the storage device of Comparative Example 8, the color of the flower changed, the upper part of the stem was wrinkled and bent, and the color of the lower part of the stem changed from that at the beginning of the test. On the other hand, as shown on the right side of Fig. 19 and on the right side of fig. 20, the plant stored in the storage device of Working Example 8 showed little or no change since the start of the test. Accordingly, it was confirmed that the effect of increasing the storage period of the object 64a to be stored can be obtained when the storage device is equipped with the space potential generator 6.

[0247] <Voltage Control Unit Influence>

When the voltage adjusting unit 41 of the storage device according to Embodiment 5 is used, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 can be adjusted according to the number of stored objects such as fresh flowers and the size of the storage space 64b. Namely, the size of the storage space 64b, which is also the range affected by the AC electric field, can be adjusted.

[0248] <Modified Example of Embodiment 5>

The storage device of Embodiment 5 may include a coffin instead of a normal temperature storage location. The electrode portion may be formed in a coffin, and the dead body of a person may be stored in a coffin in which the electrode portion is provided. The above case will be briefly explained as a modified example of Embodiment 5. In the storage device of the modified example, an AC electric field is generated in a coffin for storing a dead body, and a dead body is stored in a coffin in which an AC electric field is generated.

[0249] When the storage device of the modified example has a coffin, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 into the coffin. Thus, the dead body is preserved as long as the generated AC electric field is applied to the dead body. Because of this, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate water molecules contained in a dead body. Thus, the cells in the dead body are activated, and the change in the state of the dead body can be suppressed. In addition, when the dead body is kept at a freezing temperature of -1°C to -5°C, the dead body can be kept in good condition by suppressing bacteria. However, when a voltage regulation module 41 (shown in Fig. 3) is provided, it is possible to store several dead bodies. The number of electrode parts 2 to be connected can be increased according to the number of coffins. Thus, the number of coffins can be increased.

[0250] (Exercise 6)

<Dryer>

Next, explanations will be given on the drying apparatus of Embodiment 6. In the drying apparatus of Embodiment 6, an AC electric field is generated in a drying cabinet, an object is dried in a drying cabinet in which an AC electric field is generated. In addition, the drying apparatus of Embodiment 6 is equipped with a space potential generator that serves as an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field.

[0251] Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the drying apparatus according to Embodiment 6. As shown in FIG. 21, the drying apparatus according to Embodiment 6 is equipped with a drying cabinet 65, an electrode portion 2, and a voltage application device 3. The drying cabinet 65 is a space forming part for forming a drying space 65b for drying an object 65a to be dried, and the drying space 65b formed in the drying cabinet 65. The drying cabinet having the shelf board 65c can be used as, for example, the drying cabinet 65. The electrode part 2 is provided in the drying cabinet 65. The voltage application device 3 supplies an alternating current voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3 ) to the electrode part 2 to generate an AC electric field in the drying cabinet 65. The spatial potential generator 6 is designed to generate an AC electric field generated in the drying cabinet 65 by the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3.

[0252] It should be noted that the drying cabinet 65 is not necessarily provided on the drying apparatus according to Embodiment 6. In such a case, the drying apparatus equipped with only the electrode portion 2 and the voltage application apparatus 3 is combined with the drying apparatus and used for drying the object to be drying.

[0253] The electrode portion 2 and voltage application device 3 provided in the drying apparatus of Embodiment 6 may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping apparatus of Embodiment 1. Thus, detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0254] With regard to the method of drying the object, the object can be dried by forcibly blowing hot air. However, the above-described method has a problem that the operating cost of the drying apparatus is high because the power consumption is quite large and the electricity cost will increase. In addition, the color of the object may change when dried at high temperatures.

[0255] Alternatively, with regard to the method of drying the object, the object may be dried by sublimation of ice after pre-freezing, which is performed by rapid cooling of the substance, including water. However, the above-described method has the problem that the commissioning cost of such a drying apparatus is high due to the high price of the freeze dryer, although the quality of the object after drying is high.

[0256] Alternatively, with regard to the method of drying the object, the object may be dried by removing water from the air of the room to dehumidify the drying chamber in order to adjust the relative humidity. The above method has the characteristic that the power consumption can be reduced by about 50% compared with the hot air blowing method, and the cells of the object to be dried are almost not destroyed. However, the above-described method has a problem that the drying speed is low and the drying efficiency of the object cannot be said to be high.

[0257] Namely, with the conventional method of drying an object, it was difficult to achieve effective drying of the object and at the same time reduce the commissioning cost and the operating cost of the drying apparatus.

[0258] On the other hand, in the drying apparatus of Embodiment 6, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 to the drying cabinet 65. Thus, the object 65a is dried while the generated AC electric field is applied to the object 65a to be drying. At this time, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate the water molecules contained in the object 65a to be dried by the action of an alternating current electric field. Thus, the water molecules contained in the object 65a to be dried are more easily vibrated and more easily evaporated. As a result, the drying speed can be increased. In the above-described case, the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 can be put into operation and operated at low cost, and the object 65a can be effectively dried in the drying cabinet 65.

[0259] In addition, as in the freshness preservation apparatus according to Embodiment 1, the drying apparatus according to Embodiment 6 is equipped with a space potential generator 6 with an electrode portion 2, as well as a voltage application device 3. Thus In the same way as the freshness preservation device in Embodiment 1, the voltage application device 3 is equipped with a voltage adjustment unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Therefore, the AC electric field strength in the oven 65 can be easily adjusted and set to the appropriate intensity according to the type and quantity, the packaging condition of the object 65a to be dried, and the temperature and humidity in the oven 65. Accordingly, , the influence of the AC electric field affecting the drying process that is performed by the dryer can be further increased, or the target space can be controlled, while the commissioning cost and the operating cost of the dryer can be reduced.

[0260] Note that the range of objects to be dried is not particularly limited. Accordingly, various objects can be dried, such as chili pepper (paprika), radish, pumpkin, potato, bluebell, ginseng, orange, shiitake mushroom, beef jerky, dried persimmon, garlic, coffee, tobacco, dried sardine (boiled-dried fish ), croaker, shrimp, dried fish, Alaska pollock, and sea cucumber (sea cucumber) using the drying apparatus of Embodiment 6.

[0261] <Modified Example of Embodiment 6>

Rice. 22 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a modified example of the drying apparatus according to Embodiment 6. As shown in FIG. 22, the drying apparatus of the modified example is equipped with a large drying chamber 66 instead of the drying cabinet 65 (shown in Fig. 21). The drying chamber 66 is a space forming part for forming the drying space 66b for drying the object 66a, and the drying chamber 66 is formed in the drying chamber 66 of the drying space 66b. A drying chamber having a shelf board 66c can be used as a drying chamber 66, for example.

[0262] In addition, similarly to the drying device of Embodiment 6, the drying device in the modified example is equipped with an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3, and a space potential generator 6 is formed by an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3. The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the drying device of the modified example may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1. Thus, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0263] In the modified example, the electrode part 2 is provided under the ceiling 66d of the drying chamber 66. Due to this, the drying time of the object 66a that is being dried in the drying chamber 66 can be shortened. Although the illustration in Fig. 22 is omitted, the electrode part 2 is covered with an insulating member.

[0264] Preferably, the electrode part 2 can be located approximately in the center of the top view of the drying space 66b formed by the drying chamber 66. Due to this, the AC electric field can be evenly generated in the drying chamber 66 (i.e., in the drying space 66b) .

[0265] <Influence of the AC electric field on the drying process>

Next, the effect of the AC electric field on the drying process with the drying apparatus according to Embodiment 6 will be explained.

[0266] First, a drying apparatus without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 9, and a drying apparatus (that is, a drying apparatus of Embodiment 6) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 9. A comparative test was conducted on storing frozen Chinese chili peppers (i.e., capsicum) in an oven provided in each drying apparatus of Comparative Example 9 and Working Example 9, and drying the peppers at 58°C using the water removal method.

[0267] The drying space formed in the drying cabinet provided in each drying apparatus of Comparative Example 9 and Working Example 9 had a flat character and an area of 2.3 m ² and a volume capable of holding a maximum of 300 kg of an object. In addition, the electrode portion 2 provided in the drying apparatus of Working Example 9 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape 20 cm long × 30 cm wide. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of plastic ( ABS resin plate), which is an insulating material. The insulating members covering the top surface of the electrode plate were 30 cm long x 40 cm wide x 150 mm thick.

[0268] In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 2200 V, and the voltage directly applied to the frozen Chinese chili stored in the oven was set to 30 V.

[0269] As a result, the drying time in the drying apparatus of Working Example 9 was 28 hours, while in the drying apparatus of Comparative Example 9, the drying time was 38 hours. Thus, the drying time could be reduced by about 10 hours in Working Example 9 compared to Comparative Example 9. This means that the drying time could be reduced by about 26% in Working Example 9 compared to the drying time of Comparative Example 9. In addition, Since the power consumption of Working Example 9 can be reduced by about 16% compared to that of Comparative Example 9, the power consumption of Working Example 9 can be reduced by about 40% compared to that of Comparative Example 9.

[0270] When the drying temperature was changed from 58°C to 52°C, the drying time was 38 hours in the dryer of Working Example 9, while in the dryer of Comparative Example 9, the drying time was 48 hours. Thus, in Working Example 9, the drying time can be reduced by about 10 hours compared to Comparative Example 9. When drying is performed by lowering the temperature from the normal temperature, a high quality red color similar to the case of sun drying can be seen.

[0271] First, a drying apparatus without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 10, and a drying apparatus (i.e., a drying apparatus of Embodiment 6) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 10. A comparative test was conducted on storing frozen chili peppers in an oven provided in each drying apparatus of Comparative Example 10 and Working Example 10, and drying peppers at 58°C using the water removal method.

[0272] The drying space formed in the drying cabinet provided in each drying apparatus of Comparative Example 10 and Working Example 10 had a flat character and an area of 6.6 m ² , and a volume capable of accommodating a maximum of 1.2 tons of object for drying. In addition, the electrode portion 2 provided in the drying apparatus of Working Example 10 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape 20 cm long × 30 cm wide. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of plastic ( ABS resin plate), which is an insulating material. The insulating members covering the upper surface of the electrode plate were 30 cm long x 40 cm wide x 8 mm thick.

[0273] In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 was set to 1800 V, and the voltage directly applied to the frozen Chinese chili stored in the oven was set to 20 V.

[0274] As a result, the drying time in the drying apparatus of Working Example 10 was 42 hours, while in the drying apparatus of Comparative Example 10, the drying time was 56 hours. Thus, the drying time could be reduced by about 14 hours in Working Example 10 compared to Comparative Example 10. This means that the drying time could be reduced by about 24% in Working Example 10 compared to the drying time of Comparative Example 10. In addition, Since the power consumption of Working Example 10 can be reduced by about 17% compared to that of Comparative Example 10, the power consumption amount of Working Example 10 can be reduced by about 41% compared to that of Comparative Example 10.

[0275] First, a drying apparatus without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 11, and a drying apparatus (i.e., a drying apparatus of Embodiment 6) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 11. A comparative test was conducted on storing frozen chili peppers in an oven provided in each drying apparatus of Comparative Example 11 and Working Example 11, and drying peppers at 58°C using the water removal method.

[0276] The drying space formed in the drying cabinet provided in each drying apparatus of Comparative Example 11 and Working Example 11 had a flat character and an area of 83 m ² and a volume capable of accommodating a maximum of 12 tons of an object to be dried. In addition, the electrode portion 2 provided in the drying apparatus of Working Example 11 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape 20 cm long × 30 cm wide. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of plastic ( PE plate), which is an insulating material. The insulating members covering the upper surface of the electrode plate were 30 cm long x 40 cm wide x 8 mm thick.

[0277] In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 2200 V, and the voltage directly applied to the frozen Chinese chili stored in the oven was set to 20 V.

[0278] As a result, the drying time in the drying apparatus of Working Example 11 was 41 hours, while in the drying apparatus of Comparative Example 11, the drying time was 54 hours. Thus, the drying time could be reduced by about 13 hours in Working Example 11 compared to Comparative Example 11. This means that the drying time could be reduced by about 24% in Working Example 11 compared to the drying time of Comparative Example 11. In addition, Since the power consumption of Working Example 11 can be reduced by about 16% compared to that of Comparative Example 11, the power consumption amount of Working Example 11 can be reduced by about 40% compared to that of Comparative Example 11.

[0279] <Voltage Regulator Influence>

When the voltage adjusting unit 41 of the storage device according to Embodiment 6 is used, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 can be adjusted according to the number of objects and the size of the space. Namely, the size of the drying space 66b, which is also the range affected by the AC electric field, can be adjusted.

[0280] (Exercise 7)

<Maturation device>

Next, explanations will be given regarding the ripening apparatus (aging apparatus) according to Embodiment 7. The ripening apparatus of Embodiment 7 generates an AC electric field in the ripening space, and an object can be ripened in the ripening space in which the AC electric field is generated. current.

In addition, the ripening apparatus of Embodiment 7 is equipped with a space potential generator, which serves as an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field.

[0281] Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the ripening apparatus according to Embodiment 7. As shown in fig. 23, the ripening device according to embodiment 7 is equipped with a refrigerator 67, an electrode part 2, and a voltage supply device 3. The refrigerator 67 is a part constituting a space for forming a ripening space 67b of an object 67a, and a ripening space 67b is formed in the refrigerator 67. As the refrigerator 67, for example, a commercial upright refrigerator with a shelf board 67c can be used. The electrode part 2 is formed in the refrigerator 67 (that is, in the ripening space 67b). The voltage application device 3 supplies an alternating voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) to the electrode part 2 to generate an alternating current electric field in the refrigerator 67. A spatial potential generator 6 for generating an alternating current electric field is formed in the refrigerator 67 by the electrode part 2 and the feeder tension 3.

[0282] It should be noted that the refrigerator 67 is not necessarily provided on the ripening device according to Embodiment 7. In such a case, the ripening device equipped with only the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 is combined with the refrigerator and used to ripen the object to be ripened.

[0283] The electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the ripening device according to Embodiment 7 may be the same as the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping device of Embodiment 1. Thus, detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0284] In the ripening apparatus of Embodiment 7, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 to the ripening space 67b. Thus, an AC electric field is generated in the ripening space 67b, and the object 65a matures while the AC electric field is applied to the object 67a to be matured. At this time, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate the water molecules contained in the object to be matured 67a under the influence of an alternating current electric field. In this way, the cells of the object 67a to be matured are activated, and the maturation of the object 67a can be accelerated while the freshness of the object 67a is maintained.

[0285] Food, such as meat, can ripen early as long as the amino acid content is increased by adjusting the temperature. Since the meat usually matures for 15 days or more, special equipment is required to suppress the growth of bacteria or control the temperature, and strict adherence to the rules under the supervision of a specialist is required during the same period.

[0286] On the other hand, when the ripening apparatus of Embodiment 7 equipped with a spatial potential generator is used, the spread of bacteria can be suppressed and the best ripening effect can be achieved in a short time. When the spatial potential generator 6 is installed in a conventional refrigerator, beef, pork or chicken can be matured and stored in units of several tons or more in weight in a short time and at low cost.

[0287] In addition, the ripening device according to Embodiment 7 is equipped with a conventional refrigerator 67, an electrode part 2, and a voltage supply device 3. In addition, as described above, the ripening of an object 67a located in the ripening space 67b can be accelerated through the influence of an alternating current electric field. Accordingly, when the ripening apparatus according to Embodiment 7 is used, the commissioning cost and operating cost of the ripening apparatus can be reduced, and the object 67a can be effectively matured in the ripening space 67b by subjecting the AC electric field generated by the generator spatial potential 6.

[0288] In addition, similarly to the freshening apparatus of Embodiment 1, in the ripening apparatus of Embodiment 7, the voltage supply apparatus 3 is equipped with a voltage adjusting unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). As a result, the strength of the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6 in the refrigerator 67 can be easily adjusted and set to the appropriate intensity according to the type, quantity and packaging condition of the object 67a to be ripened, or according to the temperature and humidity in maturation space 67b. Accordingly, the effect of the AC electric field on the ripening process provided by the ripening apparatus can be further increased, or the target space can be controlled while the commissioning cost and the operating cost of the ripening apparatus are reduced.

[0289] <Influence of the AC electric field on the ripening process>

Next, the influence of the AC electric field on the ripening process with the ripening apparatus according to Embodiment 7 will be explained.

[0290] First, a maturation device without a space potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 12, and a maturation device (i.e., a maturation device according to Embodiment 7) equipped with a space potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 12. A test was carried out on storing 1 kg of beef fillet in the refrigerator provided in each ripening apparatus of Comparative Example 12 and Working Example 12, the beef ripening period was set from the 1st to the 30th day, when the start date of the test was determined as 1- th day, and the measurement of the content of glutamic acid per 100 g of beef was carried out on the 15th and 30th day. Here, the temperature in the refrigerator provided in each ripening apparatus of Comparative Example 12 and Working Example 12 was 2°C.

[0291] The drying space formed in the refrigerator provided in each ripening apparatus of Comparative Example 12 and Working Example 12 was flat and 4 m ² in area, as well as a volume capable of accommodating a maximum of 150 kg of an object to be ripened. In addition, the electrode portion 2 provided in the ripening apparatus of Working Example 12 was formed by an electrode plate having a flat shape 20 cm long × 30 cm wide. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode plate were covered with an insulating member made of plastic ( ABS resin plate), which is an insulating material. The insulating members covering the upper surface of the electrode plate were 30 cm long x 40 cm wide x 8 mm thick.

[0292] In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 1800 V, and the voltage directly applied to the beef stored in the refrigerator 67 was set to 50 V.

[0293] First, on the 15th day, fungus (mold) did not form on the surface. The beef matured in the maturator of Working Example 12 showed almost no color change. On the other hand, in the beef ripened in the maturation apparatus of Comparative Example 12, a fungus was formed on the surface, and the layer structure was visible inside the beef (for example, a layer boundary was formed between the surface and the middle part of the beef).

[0294] On the other hand, on the 30th day, the beef matured in the maturation device of both Working Example 12 and Comparative Example 12 also had fungus on the surface, and the layer structure was visible inside the beef.

[0295] Fig. 24 is a graph showing the measurement results of the content of glutamic acid contained in beef matured in the maturation apparatus of Comparative Example 12 and Working Example 12. As shown in FIG. 24, the content of glutamic acid per 100 g of beef was 21 mg at the start date of the test in both Working Example 12 and Comparative Example 12; 38 mg on day 15 in working example 12; 41 mg on Day 15 in Comparative Example 12; 51 mg on day 30 in working example 12; and 41 mg on the 30th day in Comparative Example 12. Namely, it was confirmed that the content of glutamic acid did not increase and ripening was not accelerated after the 15th day in Comparative Example 12, while the content of glutamic acid was increased and ripening accelerated also after day 15 in working example 12.

[0296] The above result means that the maturation of the object was accelerated in Working Example 12 compared with Comparative Example 12. Accordingly, it was confirmed that the object 67a could be effectively matured under the action of the AC electric field generated by the space potential generator 6 in the maturation device. of Embodiment 7, and the influence of the AC electric field affecting the ripening process performed by the ripening apparatus was increased.

[0297] <Voltage Control Unit Influence>

When the voltage adjustment unit 41 of the ripening apparatus according to Embodiment 7 is used, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 can be adjusted according to the number of objects and the size of the space. Namely, the size of the ripening space 67b, which is also the range affected by the AC electric field, can be adjusted.

[0298] (Exercise 8)

<Growing device>

Next, explanations will be given on the growth apparatus of Embodiment 8. The growth apparatus of Embodiment 8 generates an AC electric field around an object to be grown, and the object is grown in a state where an AC electric field is generated around the object. Further, the growth apparatus of Embodiment 8 is equipped with a space potential generator that serves as an electric field generating device for generating an alternating current electric field.

[0299] Fig. 25 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of the growth apparatus according to Embodiment 8. As shown in FIG. 25, the growth apparatus of Embodiment 8 is equipped with a growth portion 68, an electrode portion 2, and a voltage application device 3. in which the object 68b to be grown, such as a leafy vegetable, is grown in each of the plurality of pot parts 68c; there is also an irradiation part 68d, which is provided next to the closed part 68a (for example, above the closed part 68a) to emit light in the direction of the object 68b to be grown. The electrode part 2 is provided next to the object 68b to be grown (for example, above the closed part 68a). The voltage application device 3 applies an AC voltage VL1 (shown in Fig. 3) to the electrode portion 2 to generate an AC electric field around the object 68b to be grown. A spatial potential generator 6 for generating an alternating current electric field around an object 68b to be grown is formed by an electrode part 2 and a voltage application device 3.

[0300] It should be noted that the growth portion 68 is not necessarily provided on the growth apparatus of Embodiment 8. In such a case, the growth apparatus equipped with only the electrode portion 2 and the voltage application device 3 are combined with the growth portion (i.e., the growing 68) and is used to grow the object 68b to be grown.

[0301] The electrode portion 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the growth apparatus of Embodiment 8 may be the same as the electrode portion 2 and the voltage application device 3 provided in the freshness keeping apparatus of Embodiment 1. Thus, detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0302] In the growth apparatus according to Embodiment 8, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 around the object 68b to be grown. Thus, an AC electric field is generated around the object 68b to be grown, and the object 68b grows while the generated AC electric field is applied to the object 68b. At this time, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate the water molecules contained in the object 68b to be grown under the influence of an alternating current electric field. In this way, the cells of the object 68b to be grown are activated, and the growth of the object 68b can be accelerated while the viability of the object 68b is activated.

[0303] In addition, the growth apparatus of Embodiment 8 is equipped with a conventional growth part 68, an electrode part 2, and a voltage application device 3. In addition, as described above, the growth of the object 68b can be assisted by exposure to an AC electric field. Accordingly, when the growing apparatus according to Embodiment 8 is used, the commissioning cost and operating cost of the growing apparatus can be reduced, and the object 68b can be efficiently grown by the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6.

[0304] Further, similarly to the freshness keeping apparatus of Embodiment 1, in the growing apparatus of Embodiment 8, the voltage supplying apparatus 3 is equipped with a voltage adjusting unit 41 (shown in Fig. 3). Because of this, the strength of the AC electric field generated by the spatial potential generator 6 around the object 68b to be grown can be easily adjusted and set to the appropriate intensity according to the kind, quantity and packing condition of the object 68b to be grown, or according to the temperature and humidity around the object 68b to be grown. Accordingly, the effect of the AC electric field on the growth process provided by the grow apparatus can be further increased, or the target space can be controlled while the commissioning cost and the operation cost of the grow apparatus are reduced.

[0305] <Influence of the AC electric field on the cultivation process>

Next, the influence of the AC electric field on the growth process using the growth apparatus according to Embodiment 8 will be explained.

[0306] First, a growth device without a spatial potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 13, and a growth device (i.e., a growth device according to Embodiment 8) equipped with a spatial potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 13. A comparison test was performed to compare the growth rate of turf grass in each grower of Comparative Example 13 and Working Example 13 until the turf grass grew to about 10 cm with respect to the growth medium after turf grass seeds were sown.

[0307] The closed portion 68a of the growth portion 68 provided in each of the growth apparatus of Comparative Example 13 and Working Example 13 has a shape of 4 m long × 3 m wide × 2.4 m high. A light emitting diode (LED) was used as irradiating part 68d. The distance from the culture medium introduced into each part in the form of pots 68c placed in the closed part 68a and the irradiation part 68d was 20 cm. The irradiation part 68d continuously emitted light for 24 hours. In addition, water was supplied by a water spray system under the same conditions in both Comparative Example 13 and Working Example 13.

[0308] In addition, the electrode portion 2 provided in the growth apparatus of Working Example 13 was formed by an electrode plate having a shape of 5 cm wide x 10 cm long x 1 mm thick. In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 was set to 3000 V.

[0309] As a result, no difference in growing speed was observed between Comparative Example 13 and Working Example 13 after the seeds were sown and until the lawn grass sprouted for the first time. In addition, no difference in growth rate was observed between Comparative Example 13 and Working Example 13 after the turf grass sprouted for the first time and until the turf grass grew about 10 cm up relative to the growth medium. In addition, no difference in growth rate was observed between Comparative Example 13 and Working Example 13 when the turf grass was cut after the turf grass grew about 3 cm up relative to the growth medium, after which the cut turf grass was continued to grow.

[0310] On the other hand, a comparative test was conducted to compare the appearance of the turf grass root in the state where the turf grass was grown in each growing device of Comparative Example 13 and Working Example 13, after the turf grass was taken out and after removing nutrient soil by flushing with water. The exposed roots were then examined. As a result, when viewed before washing off the nutrient soil, the root was more tightly bonded to the nutrient soil in Working Example 13 compared to Comparative Example 13. the root was thick and the volume of the entire root was large.

[0311] Further, a growth apparatus without a spatial potential generator is defined as Comparative Example 14, and a growth apparatus (i.e., a growth apparatus according to Embodiment 8) equipped with a spatial potential generator 6 is defined as Working Example 14. Comparative Test was conducted to compare the taste of leafy vegetables such as curly mustard and vitamin-na (a kind of Japanese leafy vegetable) by eating them for sensory evaluation after the leafy vegetables were grown in each growing device of Comparative Example 14 and working example 14.

[0312] The closed portion 68a of the growth portion 68 provided in each of the growth apparatus of Comparative Example 14 and Working Example 14 has a shape of 4 m long × 3 m wide × 2.4 m high. A light emitting diode (LED) was used as irradiating part 68d. The distance from the culture medium introduced into each part in the form of pots 68c placed in the closed part 68a and the irradiation part 68d was 20 cm. The irradiation part 68d continuously emitted light for 24 hours. In addition, water was supplied by a water spray system under the same conditions in both Comparative Example 14 and Working Example 14.

[0313] In addition, the electrode portion 2 provided in the growth apparatus of Working Example 14 was formed by an electrode plate having a shape of 5 cm wide x 10 cm long x 1 mm thick. In addition, the voltage applied to the electrode part 2 was set to 3000V, and the voltage at the position of 20cm, 15cm, 10cm, 5cm and 2cm above the culture medium was set to 2800V, 500V, 120V, 60V and 10V respectively.

[0314] As a result, with respect to the curly mustard, the evaluation of Comparative Example 14 was "taste weak and watery", while the evaluation of Working Example 14 was "the taste of curly mustard was strong". In addition, with respect to the vitamin, the evaluation of Comparative Example 14 was "the taste was juicy", while the evaluation of Working Example 14 was "felt the sweet taste of vegetables and herbs".

[0315] The above result of Comparative Example 13 and Comparative Example 14 means that the growth rate of object 68b was increased in Working Example 13 compared to Working Example 14. Accordingly, it was confirmed that object 68b could be effectively grown under the action of an AC electric field, generated by the spatial potential generator 6 in the growth apparatus of Embodiment 8, and the influence of the AC electric field affecting the growth process produced by the growth apparatus was increased.

[0316] <Voltage Regulator Influence>

When the voltage adjustment unit 41 of the growth apparatus according to Embodiment 8 is used, the voltage applied to the electrode portion 2 can be adjusted according to the number of objects and the size of the space. Namely, the size of the space, which is also the range affected by the AC electric field, can be adjusted.

[0317] (Exercise 9)

The air conditioner according to Embodiment 9 and the air purifier according to the modified example of Embodiment 9 can be obtained by applying the space potential generator according to Embodiment 1 to the air conditioner and the air purifier.

[0318] Fig. 26 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an example of an air conditioner according to Embodiment 9. As shown in Fig. 26, the air conditioner according to Embodiment 9 has an air conditioning portion 69 that serves as an air conditioner body part, an electrode part 2, and a voltage application device 3. In addition, although illustration is omitted, the air purifier in the modified example of Embodiment 9 is equipped with an air purifier body part (not shown), electrode part 2 (shown in Fig. 1) and voltage application device 3 (shown in Fig. 1)

[0319] The air conditioner according to Embodiment 9 generates an AC electric field in the air conditioning space 69b in which the air conditioning part 69 performs air conditioning, and the air temperature in the air conditioning space 69b in which the AC electric field is generated is corrected. Specifically, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 formed in the air conditioning space 69b to the air conditioning space 69b. Thus, an AC electric field is generated in the air-conditioning space 69b, and the air temperature is controlled in the air-conditioning space 69b, while the generated AC electric field is applied to living organisms and the like located in the air-conditioning space 69b.

[0320] The air conditioning part 69 is attached to the wall part 69c, and the wall part 69c forms the air conditioning space 69b. The electrode portion 2 may be formed in the air conditioning space 69b. The electrode part 2 may be stored on the rear surface side of the air conditioning part 69 with respect to the air outlet 69e or the front panel 69d of the air conditioning part 69 which serves as a part of the air conditioner body. In such a case, the voltage application device 3 can be stored within the air conditioning part 69. In the above case, the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 can be embedded and integrated with the air conditioning part 69. In this way, the cost of the device can be reduced and the choice of location for device installation can be expanded.

[0321] The electrode part and the voltage application device 3 provided in the air conditioner according to Embodiment 9 may be the same as the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 (i.e., space potential generator 6) provided in the freshness keeping device of the Embodiment 1. Therefore, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0322] In addition, the air purifier in the modified example generates an AC electric field in a clean space in which air is purified, clean space air in which an AC electric field is generated is purified. Specifically, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 into a clean space. Thus, an AC electric field is generated in the clean space, and the air in the clean space is purified, while the generated AC electric field is applied to living organisms, etc. located in the clean space.

[0323] As a result, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate water molecules contained in living organisms located in an air-conditioning space or a clean space. Thus, cells in living organisms can be activated. In addition, when the degradation of living organisms occurs, the oxidation of living organisms can be prevented, and the activity of bacteria can be suppressed by replenishing electrons, since the number of electrons decreases when living organisms are oxidized. In addition, when the electrode part 2 and the voltage application device 3 shown in Fig. 26 are stored in the air cleaner body part instead of the air conditioning part 69, the space potential generator equipped with the air conditioner according to Embodiment 9 can be applied to the modified example air purifier.

[0324] Namely, when the air conditioner according to Embodiment 9 and the air purifier according to the Modified Example equipped with a space potential generator are used, for living organisms or the like located in the air conditioning space, a freshness keeping effect and an anti-aging effect can be achieved. In an air-conditioning space or a clean space, the deodorization effect can be maintained for a long time.

[0325] (Exercise 10)

The rice cooker of Embodiment 10 can be provided by applying the spatial potential generator of Embodiment 1 to the rice cooker. In such a case, the rice cooker of Embodiment 10 is equipped with a rice cooker body (not shown), an electrode portion 2 (shown in Fig. 1), and a voltage application device 3 (shown in Fig. 1).

[0326] In the rice cooker of Embodiment 10, an AC electric field is generated in a rice cooker portion of a rice cooker (not shown) which is housed in a rice cooker body portion, and rice is cooked in a rice cooker portion of a rice cooker in which an AC electric field is generated. current. Specifically, static electricity is discharged from the electrode portion 2 into the rice cooker. Thus, an AC electric field is generated in the rice cooker, and the rice is cooked, while the generated AC electric field is applied to the rice located in the rice cooker.

[0327] Because of this, an electromagnetic wave having a certain wavelength can irradiate water molecules contained in rice. Thus, rice cells can be activated. In addition, when there is deterioration in the quality of rice, rice oxidation can be prevented and bacterial activity can be suppressed by replenishing electrons, since the number of electrons decreases when rice is oxidized. Namely, when the rice cooker of Embodiment 10 equipped with the space potential generator is used, the rice located in the rice cooker portion can be softer and more delicious.

[0328] The invention invented by the inventor is specifically explained above based on the embodiments. However, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and the embodiments may be varied in various ways without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0329] Those skilled in the art may come up with various variant examples and modified examples within the scope of the concept of the present invention, and these variant examples and modified examples are included within the scope of the present invention.

[0330] For example, even when components are added, removed or changed arbitrarily, processes are added or omitted, and those skilled in the art change the conditions of the above embodiments, such configurations are also included in the present invention if they fall within the scope of the invention.

[Description of reference numbers]

[0331] 1: refrigerator

2: electrode part

2a: sheet electrode

3: voltage application device

4: perishable products

5: freshness preservation device

6: space potential generator

11: separation plate

13: cooling compartment

14: refrigerator compartment

15: vegetable compartment

21: main surface

22: plate part

23: hole

24: power supply device

31: transformer

32: feedback control circuit

33: output control box

34: output terminal

35: primary coil

35a-35c, 36a, 36b: terminals

36: secondary coil

37: AC input plug

38: circuit breaker

39: switching element

41: voltage adjustment block

42: resistance element

43: switching element

44: spark gap

51: prefabricated refrigerator

51a, 53a, 58: ceiling

52: refrigerator car

52a: refrigerator

52b: cold air outlet

53: vehicle refrigerator

54: shop

55, 55a-55d: product display rack

56, 56a, 56b: support element

56c: fixing part

57: floor

61: oil tank

61a: oil

61b: products

62, 63: water tank

62a, 63a: water

63b: aquatic organisms

64: normal temperature storage location

64a: object to be stored

64b: storage space

64c, 65c, 66c, 67c: shelf

64d, 66d: ceiling

64e: winding part

64f: screen

64g: remote control

65: drying cabinet

65a, 66a: object to be dried

65b, 66b: drying space

66: drying chamber

67: refrigerator

67a: object to be matured

67b: maturing space

68: growing part

68a: closed part

68b: object to be grown

68c: part in the form of pots

68d: irradiation part

69: air conditioning section

69b: air conditioning space

69c: wall part

69d: front panel

69e: air hole

VL1-VL3: AC voltage

Claims (68)

1. Spatial potential generator configured to generate an AC electric field, consisting of: an electrode portion to which a primary AC voltage is applied; and a voltage application device that applies a primary AC voltage to the electrode portion to generate an AC electric field around the electrode portion, which has voltage application device equipped with: a transformer that includes a primary coil to which a secondary AC voltage is applied from an AC source, and a secondary coil magnetically coupled to the primary coil; a feedback control circuit that feeds back one terminal of the secondary coil to one terminal of the primary coil to regulate the voltage of the secondary coil; an output control unit that is connected to another terminal of the secondary coil to transmit low frequency vibration to the output of the secondary coil; and a voltage adjusting unit that adjusts the voltage amount of the primary AC voltage by switching the voltage amount of the tertiary AC voltage input from the AC power supply from a plurality of voltages and applying the tertiary AC voltage having the switched voltage amount to the primary coil as a secondary AC voltage, wherein the voltage adjustment unit includes a resistance element and a switching element, wherein the resistance element is provided between the primary coil terminal and the AC power source, and the electrode part is connected to the other output of the secondary coil through the output control unit. 2. Spatial potential generator in accordance with paragraph 1, in which voltage regulation unit includes: a resistance element that is provided between the AC power supply and one terminal, which is one terminal of the primary coil or another terminal of the primary coil; and a switching element that performs switching, depending on whether the first terminal is connected to an AC power source through a resistance element or the first terminal is connected to an AC power source without involving the resistance element. 3. Spatial potential generator in accordance with paragraph 1 or 2, in which an alternating current electric field is generated around the electrode portion by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion around the electrode portion. 4. Spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-3, in which the voltage application device supplies a primary alternating voltage having a frequency of 20 to 100 Hz to the electrode part. 5. Spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-4, in which ground electrode is not provided. 6. Spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-5, in which the current flowing through the secondary coil is between 0.002 and 0.2 A. 7. Spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-6, in which the electrode portion is the first electrode, and the voltage application device is not electrically connected to other electrodes other than the first electrode. 8. Spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-7, which has the surface of the electrode part coated with a photocatalyst or an oxygen catalyst. 9. Device for preserving freshness, consisting of: spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-8, and the freshness space is prepared for the freshness of perishable foodstuffs, and the electrode part is provided in the space for keeping freshness, and an alternating current electric field is generated in the freshness storage space to keep fresh perishable foods located in the freshness storage space in which the alternating current electric field is generated. 10. A device for preserving freshness in accordance with paragraph 9, in which there are an alternating current electric field that is generated in the freshness-keeping space by discharging static electricity from the electrode portion into the freshness-keeping space, and the freshness of perishable foods is maintained while the generated AC electric field is applied to the perishable foods. 11. Device for preserving freshness in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 9 or 10, which has the part that forms the space is the refrigerator, the freshness keeping device is formed in the refrigerator, and the electrode part is provided in the refrigerator. 12. Device for frying, consisting of: spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-8, and an oil tank in which oil is stored; and the electrode part is provided in the oil tank; and an alternating current electric field is generated. 13. A device for treating water with currents, consisting of: spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-8; and water tank, which is prepared for storing water, in which there are an electrode plate provided in the water tank, and an alternating current electric field is generated in the water tank for treating water stored in the water tank in which the alternating current electric field is generated. 14. A device for treating water with currents in accordance with paragraph 13, in which an alternating current electric field is generated in the water tank by discharging static electricity from the electrode part in the water tank, and the water is treated with currents while the generated AC electric field acts on the water. 15. Device for cultivation, consisting of: spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-8; and water tank, which is prepared for storing water, in which there are an electrode plate provided in the water tank, and an AC electric field is generated in the water tank to cultivate aquatic organisms in the water tank in which the AC electric field is generated. 16. Device for cultivation in accordance with paragraph 15, in which an alternating current electric field is generated in the water tank by discharging static electricity from the electrode part in the water tank, and the aquatic organism is cultured when the generated AC electric field is applied to the aquatic organism. 17. Device for drying, consisting of: spatial potential generator in accordance with any one of paragraphs. 1-8; and drying cabinet, which is prepared for drying the object to be dried, in which there are an electrode part provided in the drying cabinet, and an alternating current electric field is generated in the dryer for drying an object to be dried in the dryer in which the alternating current electric field is generated. 18. Drying device according to paragraph 17, in which an alternating current electric field is generated in the drying cabinet by discharging static electricity from the electrode part into the drying cabinet, and the object to be dried is dried while the generated AC electric field acts on the object to be dried.

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