JP4196127B2 - refrigerator - Google Patents

Description

  The storage of the present invention is a food storage, and particularly relates to a refrigerator including a mist spraying device for improving the moisture content of food.

  Factors that influence the decline in freshness of vegetables include temperature, humidity, environmental gas, microorganisms, and light. Vegetables are living creatures that perform respiration and transpiration. Therefore, it is necessary to suppress respiration and transpiration to maintain freshness. Except for some vegetables, such as those that cause low temperature damage, respiration is suppressed at low temperatures, and transpiration can be prevented by high humidity. In recent years, refrigerators for home use have been provided with sealed vegetable containers for the purpose of preserving vegetables, cooling vegetables to an appropriate temperature, increasing the humidity in the cabinet, and suppressing transpiration of moisture from vegetables. It is controlled as follows. Moreover, there exists a thing using the part which sprays mist as a part of humidification in a store | warehouse | chamber.

  As shown in the prior art of Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-257933 (hereinafter referred to as Patent Document 1), a refrigerator equipped with this type of mist spraying function generates and sprays mist with an ultrasonic humidifier when the vegetable compartment is low in humidity. Humidifying the vegetable compartment to prevent transpiration from the vegetable.

  FIG. 18 shows a refrigerator provided with a conventional ultrasonic humidifier described in Document 1. As shown in FIG. 18, the vegetable compartment 31 is provided in the lower part of the main body case 36 of the refrigerator main body 30, and the opening of the whole surface is closed by the drawer door 32 drawn out so that opening and closing is possible. Moreover, the vegetable compartment 31 is partitioned off from the upper refrigerator compartment (not shown) by the partition plate 2.

  A fixed hanger 33 is fixed to the inner surface of the drawer door 32, and a vegetable case 1 for storing food such as vegetables is mounted on the fixed hanger 33. The top opening of the vegetable case 1 is sealed with a lid 3. A thawing chamber 4 is provided inside the vegetable case 1, and the thawing chamber 4 is provided with an ultrasonic humidifier 5.

  The ultrasonic humidifier 5 includes a mist outlet, a water storage container, a humidity sensor, and a hose receiver. The water storage container is connected to the defrost water hose 10 by a hose receiver. The defrost water hose 10 is provided with a purification filter 11 for cleaning the defrost water at a part thereof.

  The operation of the refrigerator configured as described above will be described below.

  The cooling air cooled by a heat exchange cooler (not shown) flows through the outer surface of the vegetable case 1 and the lid 3, whereby the vegetable case 1 is cooled and the food stored inside is cooled. Further, the defrost water generated from the cooler during the refrigerator operation is purified by the purification filter 11 when passing through the defrost water hose 10 and supplied to the water storage container of the ultrasonic humidifier 5.

  Next, when the humidity sensor detects that the internal humidity is 80% or less, the ultrasonic humidifier 5 starts humidification, and the atmosphere in the vegetable case 1 is moderate to keep the vegetables fresh. The humidity can be adjusted to a certain level.

  On the other hand, when the humidity sensor detects that the internal humidity is 90% or more, the ultrasonic humidifier 5 stops excessive humidification. As a result, the ultrasonic humidifier 5 can quickly humidify the vegetable compartment, and the vegetable compartment is always at a high humidity, and the transpiration action of the vegetable or the like is suppressed and the freshness of the vegetable or the like can be maintained.

Moreover, Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2000-220949 (henceforth patent document 2) shows the refrigerator provided with the ozone water mist apparatus. The refrigerator has an ozone generator, an exhaust port, a water supply path directly connected to a water supply, and an ozone water supply path in the vicinity of the vegetable compartment. The ozone water supply route is led to the vegetable room. The ozone generator is connected to a water supply unit directly connected to the water supply. Further, the exhaust port is configured to be connected to the ozone water supply path. In addition, an ultrasonic element is provided in the vegetable compartment. Ozone generated by the ozone generator is brought into contact with water to become ozone water as treated water. The generated ozone water is guided to the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator, atomized by an ultrasonic vibrator, and sprayed to the vegetable compartment.
JP-A-6-257933 JP 2000-220949 A

  In the atomizing device of the present invention, the defrost water generated from the cooler during the refrigerator operation as in the prior art is purified by the purification filter 11 when passing through the defrost water hose 10, and the ultrasonic humidifier 5. It is not a method of supplying water to a water storage container or a method of having a water supply path directly connected to a water supply and leading it to a vegetable room, but improves the above invention and supplies water droplets generated by condensation of water vapor in the vicinity of the atomizer Atomization is performed using condensed water.

The refrigerator of the present invention has a storage room partitioned by a partition made of a heat insulating material, and an atomization device provided in the partition , and the water supply to the atomization device is provided with the atomization device. A cooling source provided in an adjacent space through the partition cools a member that condenses moisture in the air to a dew point temperature or less to replenish water condensed in the air near the atomizer. To do .

  Thus, moisture in the air in the vicinity of the atomizing device is condensed by the cooling source, and water droplets are reliably generated.

  In addition, the user can replenish the food stored in the storage chamber without replenishing water from the outside.

  The refrigerator of the present invention can reliably generate water droplets by condensing moisture in the air in the vicinity of the atomizing device with a cooling source, and can be stored in the storage chamber without the user replenishing water from the outside. Since hydrated food can be replenished, dew condensation water can be stably supplied, so that mist can be efficiently sprayed in the storage space and the storage space can be maintained at high humidity.

The invention according to claim 1 includes a storage chamber partitioned by a partition made of a heat insulating material, and an atomization device that is a spray unit provided in the partition, and the partition provided with the atomization device. By means of heat conduction from a cooling source provided in an adjacent space through the atomizing device provided in a location where the wall thickness is thinner than other portions in the partition, and moisture in the air By cooling a member to be condensed to a dew point temperature or less, water in which moisture in the air in the vicinity of the atomizer is condensed is replenished to the atomizer.

  As a result, by cooling below the dew point temperature, moisture in the air in the vicinity of the atomizer can be more reliably condensed and water droplets can be generated. The mist can be sprayed on the storage room, and the storage room space can be maintained at high humidity.

In addition to the invention described in claim 1 , the member described in claim 2 is a spray tip provided in the atomizer for condensing water vapor in the vicinity of the atomizer using a cooling source.

As a result, moisture in the air can be reliably condensed on the spray tip provided in the atomizer , and mist can be sprayed.

The invention according to claim 3, in addition to the invention of claim 1, member for condensing the water vapor by cooling source is water collected plate provided in the vicinity of the atomization device, is condensation on the water collection plate Water droplets are supplied to the atomizer.

  As a result, water vapor in the cabinet is condensed on the water collecting plate, and mist spraying can be performed.

In addition to the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , the invention described in claim 4 is a storage in which the space adjacent to the partition plate provided with the atomizer is provided with the atomizer. It is a storage chamber on the upper side adjacent to the chamber.

This stabilizes the condensed water by reliably generating water droplets by condensing moisture in the air in the vicinity of the atomizing device by heat conduction from the relatively cool air adjacent to the atomizing device through the partition. Can be supplied.

  In addition, when isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant, is used as the refrigerant in the refrigeration system, even if isobutane leaks into the vegetable compartment, the refrigerant is heavier than air and stays in the lower part of the storage compartment. Therefore, since the atomizing device is installed on the top surface of the storage room, it is possible to provide a refrigerator that is extremely low in the vicinity of the atomizing device and has a highly combustible concentration.

The invention according to claim 5 is, in addition to the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , a space adjacent to the space through the partition plate provided with the atomizing device is a storage room provided with the atomizing device. It is a wind path located in the back of the.

Thus, air passages located at the back of the storage compartment, for example because the cool air generated by the cooler (evaporator) in which are provided for transporting the storage rooms, the atomizing device and the partition Condensed water can be stably supplied by dew condensation of moisture in the air in the vicinity of the atomization device and reliable generation of water droplets by heat conduction from the adjacent lower temperature air.

In addition to the invention described in any one of claims 1 to 5 , the invention described in claim 6 includes a heating unit that adjusts the dew point temperature of a member that condenses water vapor by a cooling source.

  Accordingly, the amount of condensation can be adjusted by finely adjusting the temperature of the member that condenses water vapor by the heating unit. Further, even if ice or frost is generated on the member that condenses water vapor, when the atomizer is operated by melting these, water droplets can be reliably formed, and safety is maintained.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the atomizing device is an electrostatic atomizing device, and the electrostatic atomizing device is electrically connected to a voltage application unit that generates a voltage and is applied as a spray tip. An electrode is provided, and when the application electrode is cooled by a cooling source, water droplets generated by condensation of water vapor in the vicinity of the electrostatic atomizer are atomized by the application electrode.

  Thus, mist is generated by an electrostatic atomization system, and fine mist is generated by splitting and subdividing water droplets using electric energy such as high voltage. The generated mist has a charge, so by giving the mist the opposite charge to the object you want to attach, such as vegetables and fruits, for example, the mist with a negative charge is added to the positively charged vegetables. Spraying improves adhesion to vegetables and fruits, so that the mist adheres more uniformly to the vegetable surface and improves the mist adhesion rate compared to non-charged mists. I can do it. In addition, the sprayed fine mist can be directly sprayed on the food in the vegetable container, and the fine mist can be attached to the vegetable surface using the potential of the fine mist and the vegetable, so the freshness is efficiently maintained. Can be improved.

  Furthermore, since the mist generated by the electrostatic atomization method contains radicals, agricultural chemicals and wax adhering to the vegetable surface can be decomposed and removed with an extremely small amount of water, so that water can be saved and input can be reduced.

  In addition, when the electrostatic atomization method is used, ozone is also generated when fine mist is generated. The ozone concentration in the storage chamber can be adjusted by ON / OFF operation of the electrostatic atomizer. By adjusting the ozone concentration appropriately, deterioration such as yellowing of vegetables due to excessive ozone can be prevented, and the sterilization and antibacterial action of the vegetable surface can be enhanced.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the spray portion of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a control flow diagram.

In FIG. 1, the refrigerator 221 is partitioned into a refrigerator compartment 223, a switching chamber 224, a vegetable compartment 225, and a freezer compartment 226 from above by a partition 222. A vegetable container 228 is installed in the vegetable compartment 225. The vegetable room 225 is a space partitioned by a door 233, a partition 222, and an interior partition 230, in which food is stored, and the humidity is about 80% RH or more (during food storage) and maintained at a temperature of 4 to 6 ° C. Has been. A rear compartment 230 for partitioning the air passage 229 and the vegetable compartment 225 is provided on the back of the vegetable compartment 225. A partition 222 on the top surface of the vegetable compartment 225 is provided with a water supply device 232 including a spray unit 231. The spray unit 231 is, for example, an electrostatic atomizer, a nozzle atomizer, an ultrasonic atomizer, a centrifugal atomizer, or the like.

  Further, since the refrigerator 221 cools the refrigerator, the refrigeration cycle includes a compressor 241, a condenser, a decompression device (not shown) such as an expansion valve and a capillary tube, an evaporator 242, piping for connecting these components, and refrigerant. Etc.

  The refrigerator 221 has a machine room, and the machine room is provided with a compressor 241 and a condenser. In the case of a refrigeration cycle using a three-way valve or a switching valve, these functional parts can be arranged in the machine room.

  The capillary constituting the refrigeration cycle may function as an electronic expansion valve that can freely control the flow rate of the refrigerant driven by the pulse motor.

  In the heat insulation box, an evaporator 242 is provided on the back surface of the freezer compartment 226, and plays a role of cooling the refrigerant and the air in the cabinet, which have been lowered in temperature by decompression expansion, by heat exchange.

  As shown in the figure, an electrostatic atomizer 304 that is an example of the spray unit 231 is incorporated in a partition 222. The electrostatic atomizer 304 has a spray tip 304 a that sprays mist in the vegetable compartment 225. The outer periphery of the electrostatic atomizer 304 is composed of a cylindrical holder 305. An application electrode 306 is installed in the cylindrical holder 305, and the periphery of the application electrode 306 is covered with a water retention material 307. The spherical end of the electrode 306 is in a water-containing state. Furthermore, a donut disk-shaped counter electrode 308 is attached to the inner opening of the holder 305 so as to maintain a certain distance from the tip of the application electrode 306. Further, a voltage application unit 309 that generates a high voltage electrically connects the negative electrode side to the application electrode 306 and the positive electrode side to the counter electrode 308.

  Further, a part of the electrostatic atomizer 304 is provided with a temperature detection unit 312 for detecting the tip temperature of the application electrode 306, detects the signal, performs a predetermined calculation, and configures the configuration. A control unit 314 for operating the parts is provided. As this control unit, for example, a microcomputer or the like can be used.

  Further, a heating unit 313 is provided on the back surface of the application electrode 306 in order to control the tip temperature of the application electrode 306.

Here, the partition 222 is mainly composed of a heat insulating material such as polystyrene foam, and the wall thickness is about 30 mm, but the wall thickness on the back of the electrostatic atomizer 304 is composed of 5 mm to 10 mm. .

  About the refrigerator comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement / effect | action is demonstrated below.

In the case of a refrigerator, the cold air heat-exchanged by a cooler (evaporator) 242 is stored in a refrigerator room 223, a switching room 224, a vegetable room 225, a freezer room 226, and an ice making room (not shown) by a stirring fan (not shown). In general, cold air is distributed to the vehicle and the ON / OFF operation is performed so as to maintain a predetermined temperature. The vegetable room 225 is adjusted so as to be 4 ° C. to 6 ° C. by ON / OFF operation such as distribution of cold air or a heating unit, and generally has no internal temperature detection unit. The vegetable room 225 is highly humid due to transpiration from food and permeation of water vapor by opening and closing the door. The thickness of the partition 222 in which the electrostatic atomizer 304 is installed requires a cooling capacity for cooling the application electrode 306, and the wall thickness of the portion where the electrostatic atomizer 304 is provided is other than It is made thinner than the part. Therefore, the application electrode 306 can be cooled by heat conduction from the ice making chamber at a relatively low temperature. Here, if the tip temperature of the application electrode 306 is set to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature, water vapor in the vicinity of the application electrode 306 is condensed on the application electrode 306, and water droplets are reliably generated.

  Specifically, the tip temperature is measured by the temperature detection unit 312 installed in the vicinity of the application electrode 306, and the heating unit 313 is ON / OFF controlled by the control unit 314, or the voltage is changed. Thereby, the tip temperature of the application electrode 306 is adjusted to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature, and moisture contained in the high-humidity air is condensed on the application electrode 306. Although not shown here, a dew point temperature can be determined strictly in accordance with changes in the internal environment by a predetermined calculation by installing an internal temperature detection unit, an internal humidity detection unit, etc. . Even if the tip of the application electrode 306 becomes ice or frost, the heating electrode 306 can raise the tip temperature of the application electrode 306 to the melting temperature by the heating unit 313, so that water is appropriately generated by melting the frost or ice. I can do it.

  In the electrostatic atomizer 304 of the present embodiment, since the application electrode 306 is covered with the water retention material 307, the application electrode 306 is in a certain amount of water-containing state. In this state, the application electrode 306 is set to the negative voltage side and the counter electrode 308 is set to the positive voltage side, and a high voltage (eg, 4.6 kV) is applied between the electrodes by the voltage application unit 309. At this time, for example, corona discharge occurs between the electrodes separated by a distance of 3 mm, and the water of the application electrode 306 is atomized from the tip of the electrode, accompanied by a nano-level fine mist having a charge of less than 1 μm that cannot be visually observed. Ozone and OH radicals are generated.

  The generated fine mist is sprayed into the vegetable container 228. The fine mist sprayed from the electrostatic atomizer 304 is negatively charged. On the other hand, vegetables, which are fruits and vegetables, are stored in the vegetable room, and green rape leaves, fruits and the like are also stored therein. These fruits and vegetables are usually stored in a slightly deflated state due to transpiration at the time of purchase return or transpiration during storage. These fruits and vegetables are normally charged with a positive charge, and the sprayed fine mist with a negative charge tends to collect on the vegetable surface. Therefore, the sprayed fine mist makes the vegetable room highly humid again and at the same time adheres to the surface of the fruits and vegetables, suppresses the transpiration from the fruits and vegetables, and improves the freshness. In addition, it penetrates into the tissues through the gaps between the cells of vegetables and fruits, the water evaporates, the water is supplied again into the deflated cells, the deflation is eliminated by the swelling pressure of the cells, and it returns to a crispy state .

  Moreover, the generated fine mist holds ozone, OH radicals, etc., and these hold strong oxidizing power. Therefore, the generated fine mist can deodorize the vegetable room and antibacterial and sterilize the vegetable surface, and at the same time oxidatively decompose and remove harmful substances such as agricultural chemicals and wax adhering to the vegetable surface.

  Further, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged by the operation of the compressor 241 exchanges heat with the air in the refrigerator 221 in the condenser to dissipate heat and condensates and reaches the capillary. Thereafter, the pressure is reduced while exchanging heat with the suction line through the capillary, and the vapor reaches the evaporator 242.

  Due to the action of a cooling fan (not shown), the cool air having a relatively low temperature due to the evaporation action of the refrigerant in the evaporator 242 flows into the refrigerator compartment 223, the freezer compartment 226, etc., and the respective rooms are cooled. . In the evaporator 242, the refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the air in the cabinet is then sucked into the compressor 241 through the suction line.

  As the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle described above, isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant with a low global warming potential, is used from the viewpoint of global environmental conservation.

  This isobutane, which is a hydrocarbon, has a specific gravity approximately twice that at normal temperature and atmospheric pressure compared with air (at 2.04 and 300K).

  If isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant, leaks from the refrigeration system when the compressor is stopped, it leaks downward because it is heavier than air. At this time, there is a possibility that the refrigerant leaks into the cabinet from the partition on the back of the freezer compartment. In particular, in the case of leakage from the evaporator 242 with a large amount of refrigerant, the amount of leakage may increase. However, the vegetable compartment 225 having the electrostatic atomizer 304 is installed above the evaporator. Therefore, even if it leaks, it does not leak into the vegetable room.

  Even if it leaks into the vegetable compartment, the refrigerant stays in the lower part of the storage compartment because it is heavier than air. Therefore, since the electrostatic atomizer is installed on the top of the storage room, it is extremely low that the vicinity of the electrostatic atomizer becomes a flammable concentration.

  Next, a control flow relating to fine mist spraying will be described with reference to FIG.

During the fine mist spraying, the temperature at the tip of the application electrode 306 is determined. If the applied electrode temperature determination mode is entered in step 1, then the temperature of the temperature detector 312 is determined in step 2. If the detected temperature T is lower than the reference temperature T ₁ of reduced below the dew point temperature, the process proceeds to step 3. On the other hand, if the detected temperature is higher than the reference temperature T ₁ of the applied electrode tip is determined to be in the dry state, the process proceeds to Step 5, OFF the electrostatic atomizer 304 for safety, including idling To.

When the process proceeds from step 2 to step 3, then, when the temperature detected by the temperature detecting portion than the reference temperature T ₂ which predetermined application electrode tip does not freeze or frost is high, when being condensed on the application electrode tip It judges, and it judges that mist spraying is possible, turns on a spraying part, and sprays fine mist in a storage room.

If it is determined that the temperature detected by the temperature detecting portion is lower than the reference temperature T ₂ in step 3, application electrode tip is determined that the frozen or frosted, the process proceeds to step 6. In step 6, the electrostatic atomizer 304 is turned off, the heating unit 313 is turned on, and the tip portion is heated to melt ice and frost.

  As mentioned above, this Embodiment 1 is a refrigerator provided with the heat insulation box which has the storage chamber by which heat insulation was carried out, and an electrostatic atomizer as a spraying part which sprays a liquid. Cooling the application electrode of the electrostatic atomizer by heat conduction from the other low temperature storage room side, using the low temperature cold air of the separate storage room, which is relatively low temperature, to adjust the temperature of the application electrode tip temperature below the dew point Thus, moisture in the air can be reliably condensed on the tip of the application electrode.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the amount of condensation can be adjusted by finely adjusting the tip temperature of the tip of the application electrode with the heating unit on the back surface of the application electrode. Further, even if ice or frost is generated at the tip, when the electrostatic atomizer is operated by melting these, water droplets can be reliably formed, and safety is maintained.

  Moreover, the electrostatic retention of the fine mist of this Embodiment makes it possible to increase the moisture retention of vegetables and improve the freshness by reliably attaching the mist to the vegetable surface. Further, when fine mist is generated, the effects of deodorization, removal of harmful substances on the food surface, and antifouling can be enhanced by ozone and OH radicals generated simultaneously.

  Moreover, the spray part of this Embodiment produces | generates mist by an electrostatic atomization system, and generates fine mist by dividing | segmenting and subdividing a water droplet using electric energy, such as a high voltage. The generated mist has a charge, so by giving the mist the opposite charge to the object you want to attach, such as vegetables and fruits, for example, the mist with a negative charge is added to the positively charged vegetables. Spraying improves adhesion to vegetables and fruits, so that the mist adheres more uniformly to the vegetable surface and improves the mist adhesion rate compared to non-charged mists. I can do it. In addition, the sprayed fine mist can be directly sprayed on the food in the vegetable container, and the fine mist can be attached to the vegetable surface using the potential of the fine mist and the vegetable, so the freshness is efficiently maintained. Can be improved.

  Furthermore, the makeup water of this embodiment uses condensed water instead of tap water supplied from the outside. Therefore, there are no mineral components and impurities, and deterioration of water retention due to deterioration of the applied electrode tip or clogging can be prevented. In addition, by extracting moisture contained in the air in the storage chamber, the user can replenish the food stored in the storage chamber without supplying water from the outside.

  Furthermore, since the mist of the present embodiment contains radicals, agricultural chemicals and wax adhering to the vegetable surface can be decomposed and removed with an extremely small amount of water, so that water can be saved and input can be reduced.

  Ozone is also generated when fine mist is generated. The ozone concentration in the storage chamber can be adjusted by ON / OFF operation of the electrostatic atomizer. By adjusting the ozone concentration appropriately, deterioration such as yellowing of vegetables due to excessive ozone can be prevented, and the sterilization and antibacterial action of the vegetable surface can be enhanced.

  In addition, since the electrostatic atomizer is arranged above the evaporator, when the refrigeration cycle is configured using a combustible refrigerant such as isobutane or propane, and when the refrigerant leaks, Since it is heavier than air, it is safe because the refrigerant does not fill the vegetable compartment.

  Moreover, since the electrostatic atomization part is installed above the storage room also in the vegetable compartment, even if a refrigerant | coolant leaks, it will remain in the lower part of a storage room, and it does not ignite.

  In addition, since there is no part which faces the refrigerant | coolant piping etc. directly in the storage chamber, a refrigerant | coolant does not leak. Therefore, the combustible refrigerant is not ignited.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 4 is a longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the spraying portion in the second embodiment of the present invention. The same parts and members as those of the first embodiment may be indicated by the same numbers.

In FIG. 4, the partition 222 of the refrigerator 221 is provided with an electrostatic atomizer 304, in the vicinity of the water storage tank 315, the stored water 316 in the water storage tank 315, and high-humidity air toward the application electrode 306. A blower 317 for flowing is configured.

  About the refrigerator comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement / effect | action is demonstrated below.

  The water tank 315 stores tap water, condensed water, and the like. Here, when the fine mist is sprayed into the storage chamber by the electrostatic atomizer 304, the atmosphere in the vicinity of the tip of the application electrode and the storage chamber need to be at high humidity. The reason is that in the case of low humidity, the dew point temperature is lower than the freezing point and cannot be atomized. Also, if the storage room is low in humidity, transpiration from the surface of the food is promoted and the freshness deteriorates. Therefore, the stored water 316 is vaporized by flowing wind over the water surface of the water storage tank 315 to create high-humidity air, which is conveyed to the application electrode 306 by the blower 317. The transported high-humidity air condenses on the application electrode 306 controlled to a temperature equal to or lower than the dew point temperature, and generates high-voltage between the application electrode and the counter electrode to generate a nano-level fine mist with charges that cannot be visually observed. Spray into storage room. In addition, the storage room can be equally humidified to maintain freshness.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the electrostatic atomizer 304 is provided in the refrigerator partition, and the storage tank and the air blowing unit are provided in the vicinity thereof, so that the application electrode and the storage chamber can be provided as necessary. In addition to transporting moist air and ensuring the freshness in the storage chamber, the freshness and antibacterial properties can be further improved by the fine mist generated from the applied electrode.

  In addition, by increasing the humidity of the application electrode of this embodiment, in particular, air discharge between the application electrode and the counter electrode is suppressed, so that the ozone concentration can be reduced.

  In this embodiment, the water tank is fixed to the partition, but a detachable water tank may be used. This makes it easy to replace, add, and clean water, and can meet the needs of users who are more clean-minded, improving the convenience of the refrigerator.

  In the present embodiment, the air blowing unit is used to promote evaporation from the water storage tank, but a heating unit or the like may be used. In this case, the temperature difference between the temperature of the air and the water storage tank widens, and the stored water easily evaporates.

  In the present embodiment, the air blowing unit is used to promote evaporation from the water storage tank, but a stirring unit or the like may be used. In this case, the liquid level of the stored water is easily vaporized.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the water collection part of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of the refrigerator in the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a control flowchart of the third embodiment. The same parts and members as those of the first embodiment may be indicated by the same numbers.

In FIG. 5, a water supply device 322, an irradiation unit 323, and a diffusion plate 324 are attached to the partition 222 on the top of the vegetable room. The water supply device 322 receives the water generated by the electrostatic atomizer 304, the water collection plate 321, the water collection plate surface temperature detection unit 327, the heating unit 328 such as a heater, and the water collection plate 321. And a cover member 329 for causing the spray section to flow water. The irradiation unit 323 includes an LED, a lamp, and the like for irradiating light with a specific wavelength within the chamber. The diffuser plate 324 made of a translucent material diffuses the light from the irradiation unit 323 throughout the interior. In the vegetable compartment 225, an internal temperature detector 325 and an internal humidity detector 326 are provided. Furthermore, although not shown here, the door opening / closing detection part for detecting the door opening / closing of a vegetable compartment is provided.

  About the refrigerator comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement * effect | action is demonstrated below.

  First, the dew point temperature of the vegetable 225 can be predicted by the internal temperature detection unit 325 and the internal humidity detection unit 326. Accordingly, the surface temperature is grasped by the temperature detection unit 327 on the surface of the water collecting plate, and the water collecting plate surface temperature is adjusted to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature by the heating unit 328 or the like. For example, the water collecting plate surface temperature is adjusted as shown in (Table 1).

  For example, if the internal temperature is 5 ° C. and the internal humidity is 90%, the dew point temperature is 3.5 ° C. If the internal temperature is lower than this temperature, the water vapor in the internal chamber is condensed on the water collecting plate 321. The condensed water is supplied to the electrostatic atomizer 304 along the water collecting plate 321 or the cover member 329.

  Further, for example, when the internal temperature detection unit 325 detects that the internal temperature detection unit 325 is 5 ° C. or more and the internal humidity detection unit 326 is 95% or more, the irradiation unit 323 is turned on. The irradiation unit 323 is, for example, a blue LED or a lamp covered with a material that transmits only blue light. When weak blue light is irradiated to vegetables and fruits, the pores existing on the surface of the skin of the vegetables and fruits are greatly opened as compared with the normal state by light stimulation of blue light.

  That is, the emitted blue light is used to control the pore opening of vegetables, and the wavelength is preferably 400 nm to 500 nm as shown in the action spectrum of blue light-induced pore opening in FIG. The relative effect becomes particularly high when irradiation light having a central wavelength of 440 nm or 470 nm is used. In particular, if a blue LED is used, light can be irradiated with low cost and low input, and the thermal influence on the storage chamber can be reduced.

Also, photon flux density represents the intensity of ^{light, 0.1μmol · m -2 · s -1} ~100μmol · m -2 · s -1 is desired. In particular, vegetables open and close their pores by light stimulation, but respond to light stimulation if the photon flux density is about 0.1 μmol · m ⁻² · s ⁻¹ . In addition, if the photon flux density is higher than that, the pores will be opened, but if it exceeds 100 μmol · m ⁻² · s ⁻¹ , photosynthesis becomes active, and transpiration from the vegetable surface becomes intense and the freshness is impaired. . Actually, it is desirable that the photon flux density of the irradiation unit 323 is set to about 1 μmol · m ⁻² · s ⁻¹ in consideration of the illuminance distribution in the container and the accumulation of vegetables.

  Condensed water is supplied to the application electrode, and fine mist generated by applying a high voltage between the application electrode and the counter electrode is sprayed into the vegetable container 228. The sprayed mist adheres to the surface of vegetables or fruits in the state of pores controlled by blue light, and penetrates into the tissue through the pores. As a result, the water is evaporated and the water is supplied again into the deflated cells, the deflation is eliminated by the bulging pressure of the cells, and the state is restored to the shakited state.

Note that the pores of vegetables can be opened and closed with light containing red light having a wavelength of 500 nm to 700 nm. However, as shown in FIG. 7, in the case of the red light will, in photon flux density of 500μmol ^{· m} -2 ^{· s -1,} the result of poor effect of blue light 1μmol ^{· m} -2 ^{· s -1} there were.

  Next, the functional block diagram of FIG. 8 will be described. In order to adjust the amount of water supplied to the electrostatic atomizer 304 and to adjust the operation of the irradiation unit 323, a water collecting plate temperature detection unit 327, a vegetable room temperature detection unit 325, a vegetable room humidity detection unit 326, An information signal with the door opening / closing detection unit 330 is input to the control unit.

  For example, when it is detected that the internal temperature is 5 ° C., the internal humidity is 90%, and the water collecting plate surface temperature is 4 ° C., the controller 314 operates the electrostatic atomizer 304 and heats it. The operation of the unit 328 is stopped. That is, in this case, it is necessary to cool the surface temperature of the water collecting plate below the dew point temperature. For example, the heating unit is turned off or input is reduced, or control is performed to lower the temperature of the cold air. Also, by operating the electrostatic atomizer 304 only when the door opening / closing detection unit 330 detects that the door is closed, it is possible to prevent mist leakage to the outside when the door is opened / closed. Furthermore, when the stored vegetables open pores at a low temperature around 0 ° C., the low temperature damage of the vegetables is promoted and the vegetables are damaged. Moreover, if it is 15 degreeC or more, the transpiration from the vegetable surface by respiration will flourish, and it will become easy to reduce a moisture content. Therefore, if the vegetable room temperature detection unit 325 turns on the irradiation unit 323 only when, for example, a range of 2 ° C. to 15 ° C. is detected, the freshness can be maintained efficiently and the amount of water can be improved.

  Next, the control flow diagram of FIG. 9 will be described.

In step 11, the water collecting plate surface temperature detector 327 measures the surface temperature t ° C. When the surface temperature t ° C. is in a range between t _A ° C and t _B ° C determined in advance, the control unit 314 determines that the moisture content can be improved by controlling the pores of the vegetable and by mist spraying.

  In step 12, the control unit 314 operates the electrostatic atomizer 304 to spray fine mist in the storage chamber.

In the next step 13, whether the integrated operating time T _A of the electrostatic atomization apparatus 304 exceeds a T ₁ is determined, if it exceeds, the process proceeds to step 14, to operate the illumination unit 323.

In step 15, it is determined whether cumulative operation time T _A of the electrostatic atomization apparatus 304 is greater than T ₂ is, if it exceeds, the process proceeds to step 16 to terminate the mist spray, even illumination unit simultaneously Turn it off.

In step 17, the integrated stop time T _B of the electrostatic atomizing device 304, it is determined whether exceeds T ₃ is, if it exceeds the routine proceeds to step 18, the timer T _A, T _B Is returned to the initial value, and the water collecting plate surface temperature is detected again.

  As described above, the refrigerator according to the third embodiment irradiates the vegetables being stored in the vegetable room with the light selected by the irradiation unit by the irradiation unit, and can pass through the pores with the mist spraying device. Spray an appropriate amount of mist. Thereby, mist will permeate the inside of the vegetable from the pores on the opened vegetable surface, the moisture content of the vegetable can be improved, and the freshness of the vegetable can be maintained.

  Further, by attaching the irradiation unit and the water supply device to the partition of the present embodiment, the assembly efficiency can be improved and the wiring of the power supply circuit and the like can be simplified.

Moreover, in this Embodiment, by irradiating 0.1-100 micromol * m ^<-2 > * s ^{< -1} > blue light, photosynthesis activity is made low by weak light irradiation, On the other hand, a pore opening rate is made high. I can do it. As a result, water consumption by photosynthesis of vegetables can be suppressed as much as possible, and moisture can be efficiently supplied into the vegetables from the open pores. Further, by selecting a wavelength of 400 nm to 500 nm including blue light, it is possible to suppress the photon flux density, and it is possible to apply an LED or the like, leading to an energy saving effect and cost reduction.

  Further, by providing the vegetable room temperature detection unit, the vegetable room humidity detection unit, and the door opening / closing detection unit, it is possible to collect condensed water and spray mist more efficiently.

  In addition, although the irradiation part was made into blue light, it may be an ultraviolet-ray. In this case, the sprayed mist can be sterilized and the surface of the food can be sterilized, and the safety of the food can be improved.

(Embodiment 4)
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a front view of the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13: is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in Embodiment 4 of this invention. FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a control flowchart in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. The same parts and members as those of the first embodiment may be indicated by the same numbers.

In the figure, the refrigerator 221 is partitioned into a refrigerator compartment 223, a switching chamber 224, a vegetable compartment 225, and a freezer compartment 226 from above by a partition 222 having heat insulation properties. The vegetable compartment 225 is provided with a vegetable container 228, which stores food in the space, and is cooled to 4 to 6 ° C. with a humidity of about 90% RH or more (during food storage). A rear compartment 230 for partitioning the air passage 229 and the vegetable compartment 225 is provided on the back of the vegetable compartment 225. The internal partition 230 is provided with a water supply device 322 including an ultrasonic atomizing device 401. Furthermore, the partition 222 on the top of the vegetable room is provided with an irradiating unit 323 for irradiating light with a specific wavelength selected and a diffusion plate 324 for diffusing the light throughout the interior.

  In the figure, an air passage 229 is provided between the internal partition 230 and the refrigerator outer wall 402. The air path 229 is provided, for example, for transporting cold air generated by the cooler (evaporator) 242 to each storage chamber or transporting air heat-exchanged from each storage chamber to the cooler 242. Here, an ultrasonic atomizer 401 is incorporated in the internal partition 230. The internal partition 230 is mainly made of a heat insulating material such as polystyrene foam, and its wall thickness is about 30 mm. On the back surface of the stored water holding unit 404, the wall thickness is 5 mm to 10 mm. A water collecting plate 321 is installed inside the storage water holding unit 404. For example, a heating unit 328 such as a heater made of nichrome wire is brought into contact with one surface of the water collecting plate 321, and a cover member for forming a ventilation unit 317 such as a BOX fan and a circulation air path 407 is provided inside the cabinet. 406 is installed.

  In the figure, the cover member 406 is provided with a first circulation air passage opening 408 and a second circulation air passage opening 409 related to the circulation air passage 407. Further, the water collecting plate 321 is provided with a temperature detection unit 327 for detecting the temperature of the surface of the water collecting plate 321.

  In the figure, the ultrasonic atomizer 401 is composed of a horn 410 and a piezoelectric element 411. The horn 410 is processed into a substantially conical shape by cutting or the like, and a flange portion 412 is formed integrally with the horn 410 on the piezoelectric element 411 side of the horn 410. Further, the horn 410 and the piezoelectric element 411 are bonded and fixed, and the vibration generated by the piezoelectric element 411 is amplified so as to have a maximum amplitude at the tip of the horn. Moreover, the ultrasonic atomizer 401 is attached to the connection part 405 of a refrigerator or its attachment member by using the flange part 412 as an attachment position.

  The horn 410 is made of a material having high thermal conductivity, and examples thereof include metals such as aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel. In particular, it is preferable to select a material mainly composed of aluminum from the viewpoint of light weight, high thermal conductivity, and amplitude amplification performance during ultrasonic transmission. In order to extend the life, it is desirable to select a material mainly composed of stainless steel.

  Also, the amplitude of the ultrasonic vibration is such that the flange portion 412 becomes a node of the amplitude, and the tip of the horn 410 becomes an abdominal portion of the amplitude, and between the flange portion 412 and the tip of the horn 410 is ¼ wavelength. It is set to be. The length of the horn 410 is determined by the atomized particle diameter of the generated mist, the oscillation frequency of the piezoelectric element 411, and the material of the horn 410. For example, when the atomized particle diameter is about 10 μm, the length B of the horn 410 is about 6 mm when the material of the horn 410 is aluminum and the oscillation frequency of the piezoelectric element 411 is about 270 kHz. When the atomized particle diameter is about 15 μm, the length B of the horn 410 is about 11 mm when the material of the horn 410 is aluminum and the oscillation frequency of the piezoelectric element 411 is about 146 kHz. A summary of these theoretical calculation values is shown in (Table 2).

  The refrigeration cycle of the refrigerator 221 includes a compressor 241, a condenser, a decompression device (not shown) such as an expansion valve and a capillary tube, an evaporator 242, piping connecting these components, and a refrigerant. .

  The refrigerator 221 has a machine room, and the machine room includes a compressor 241 and a condenser. In the case of a refrigeration cycle using a three-way valve or a switching valve, those functional components may be disposed in the machine room.

  The capillaries constituting the refrigeration cycle may function as an electronic expansion valve that can freely control the flow rate of the refrigerant driven by the pulse motor.

  In the heat insulation box, an evaporator 242 is provided on the back surface of the freezer compartment 226, and plays a role of cooling the refrigerant and the air in the cabinet, which have been lowered in temperature by decompression expansion, by heat exchange.

  About the refrigerator comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement / effect | action is demonstrated below.

  In the case of the refrigerator 221, the cold air exchanged by the cooler 242 is cooled by the agitating fan (not shown) or the like into the refrigerator compartment 223, the switching room 224, the vegetable room 225, the freezer room 226, the ice making room (not shown), or the like. In general, the system is operated ON / OFF so as to maintain a predetermined temperature. The vegetable room 225 is adjusted to 4 ° C. to 6 ° C. by ON / OFF operation such as distribution of cold air or a heating unit, and in general, there are many that do not have an internal temperature detection unit. The vegetable compartment 225 is highly humid due to the evaporation of moisture from the food and the intrusion of water vapor by opening and closing the door. The internal partition 230 is configured to be thinner than other portions because a certain amount of cooling capacity is required. Here, if the surface temperature of the water collecting plate 321 is set to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature, the water vapor in the vicinity of the water collecting plate 321 is condensed on the water collecting plate 321, and water droplets are reliably generated.

  Specifically, (1) the surface temperature state is grasped by the temperature detection unit 327 installed on the water collecting plate 321, and (2) the blower 317 and the heating unit 328 are turned on / off by the control unit 314 or (3) The surface temperature of the water collecting plate 321 is adjusted to the dew point temperature or less, and (4) moisture contained in the high-humidity air sent from the inside by the wind section 317 is condensed on the water collecting plate 321. Let In particular, although not shown here, if there is an internal temperature detection unit, an internal humidity detection unit, or the like, the dew point temperature can be strictly determined according to a change in the internal environment by a predetermined calculation. Even if ice or frost is formed on the surface of the water collecting plate 321, the surface temperature of the water collecting plate 321 can be raised to the melting temperature using the heating unit 328, so that water can be generated appropriately.

  Here, when the air blower 317 is operated, the surface temperature of the water collecting plate 321 increases due to the influence of the air in the vegetable compartment 225, while when the air blower 317 stops, the surface temperature decreases. When the wall thickness is 10 mm or more, the surface temperature of the water collecting plate 321 becomes equal to or higher than the dew point temperature even when the air blower 317 is in operation and the heating unit 328 is OFF, and the amount of condensation cannot be adjusted. On the other hand, when the wall thickness is 5 mm or less, the heating unit 328 is always in an ON state, resulting in poor energy efficiency. Therefore, the energy of the heating unit 328 can be minimized while controlling the surface temperature of the water collecting plate 321 by setting the thickness of the internal partition 30 on the back surface of the water collecting plate 321 to 5 to 10 mm.

  Moreover, in order to promote condensation, it is necessary to circulate the air in the vegetable compartment 225. Therefore, air is taken in by the blower 317. For example, after taking in high-humidity air from the second circulation air passage opening 409 by the blower 317 and allowing the water collection plate 321 to condense, air is discharged from the first circulation air passage opening 408 into the chamber. Condensation is promoted by circulating the air in the vegetable compartment 225.

  Water droplets condensed on the surface of the water collecting plate 321 gradually grow, flow downward without using power such as a pump due to its own weight, and gather near the ultrasonic atomizer 401. The collected condensed water is supplied to the tip of the horn 410 by the water supply unit 403.

  The water supplied to the tip of the horn 410 is sprayed into the vegetable container 228 as a mist having a small particle diameter by the vibration of the ultrasonic vibrator 411. Among the vegetables that are fruits and vegetables, green vegetable leaves and fruits are also stored in the vegetable room 225, and these fruits and vegetables are more likely to wither due to transpiration. The vegetables and fruits stored in the vegetable room 225 usually include those that are slightly deflated by transpiration at the time of purchase return or transpiration during storage. The surface of vegetables is moistened. At this time, when the internal temperature detection unit 325 detects that the internal temperature detection unit 325 is 5 ° C. or more and the internal humidity detection unit 326 is 95% or more, the irradiation unit 323 is turned on. The irradiation unit 323 is, for example, a blue LED or a lamp covered with a material that transmits only blue light. The irradiation unit 323 emits weak blue light, and the pores present on the surface of the skin of vegetables and fruits are stimulated by blue light. As a result, the opening of the pores becomes larger than in a normal state, and the vegetables and fruits easily absorb moisture.

  That is, the blue light irradiated at this time controls the stomatal opening of vegetables, and the wavelength is preferably 400 nm to 500 nm. In particular, when an irradiating portion having a central wavelength of 440 nm or 470 nm is used, the relative effect is high. In particular, when a blue LED is used, irradiation can be performed with low cost and low input, and the thermal influence on the storage chamber can be reduced.

Also, photon flux density represents the intensity of ^{light, 0.1μmol · m -2 · s -1} ~100μmol · m -2 · s -1 is desired. Particularly, the pores of vegetables open and close the pores by light stimulation, and respond to light stimulation if the photon flux density sensed by the stimulation is about 0.1 μmol · m ⁻² · s ⁻¹ . On the other hand, if it exceeds that, the pores are opened, but if it exceeds 100 μmol · m ⁻² · s ⁻¹ , photosynthesis becomes active, and therefore, transpiration from the vegetable surface becomes intense and the freshness is impaired. Actually, it is desirable that the photon flux density of the irradiation unit 323 is set to about 1 μmol · m ⁻² · s ⁻¹ in consideration of the illuminance distribution in the container and the accumulation of vegetables.

  As a result, the sprayed mist causes the inside of the vegetable compartment 225 to become highly humid and at the same time adheres to the surface of the vegetables and fruits in the pore-open state in the vegetable compartment 225, penetrates into the tissue through the pores, and moisture evaporates. Then, water is supplied again into the deflated cells, and the deflation is eliminated by the swelling pressure of the cells, and it returns to a crispy state. At that time, the atomized particle diameter is preferably 4 μm to 20 μm. Furthermore, since the average pore size of a general vegetable is about 20 μm, a finer mist with a particle size of 20 μm or less is more preferable in order to restore a wilted vegetable.

  The horn 410 generates heat due to vibration in the vicinity of the tip of the horn 410. However, since the horn 410 is a highly heat conductive material, it also serves to conduct heat to the entire horn 410.

  When the piezoelectric element 411 is driven, each part vibrates as shown by a solid line A in FIG. The flange portion 412 side of the horn 410 becomes a node portion of the sound wave propagating through the ultrasonic atomizer 401, and the flange portion 412 of the horn 410 corresponding to the node portion, for example, directly with the internal partition 230 or indirectly through an attachment member. Connected and installed. Since the connection is made at the node of the propagating sound wave, the loss is reduced and the power consumption can be reduced.

  Moreover, if the length (horn length: B) of the front-end | tip of the horn 410 and the flange part 412 has a 1/4 wavelength, the full length of the ultrasonic atomizer 401 can be shortened. Conversely, if there are a plurality of abdominal portions between the tip of the horn 410 and the flange portion 412, the vibration energy loss increases and the power required for vibration increases.

  Further, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged by the operation of the compressor 241 exchanges heat with the air in the refrigerator 221 in the condenser to dissipate heat and condensates and reaches the capillary. Thereafter, the pressure is reduced while exchanging heat with the suction line through the capillary, and the vapor reaches the evaporator 242.

  Due to the action of a cooling fan (not shown), the cool air having a relatively low temperature due to the evaporation action of the refrigerant in the evaporator 242 flows into the refrigerator compartment 223, the freezer compartment 226, etc., and the respective rooms are cooled. . In the evaporator 242, the refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the air in the cabinet is then sucked into the compressor 241 through the suction line.

  As the refrigerant of the refrigeration cycle described above, isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant with a low global warming potential, is used from the viewpoint of global environmental conservation.

  This isobutane, which is a hydrocarbon, has a specific gravity approximately twice that at normal temperature and atmospheric pressure compared with air (at 2.04 and 300K).

  Even if the combustible refrigerant leaks from the evaporator 242 when the compressor is stopped, the ultrasonic atomizer does not have a discharge portion as in the electrostatic atomizer and does not have an ignition source. Therefore, an ultrasonic atomizer can be installed irrespective of the structure of the parts which comprise the refrigerating cycle, and it is safe regardless of the kind of refrigerant.

  Next, the functional block diagram of FIG. 14 will be described. The control unit 314 controls the operation of the ultrasonic atomizer 401, the heating unit 328 that operates to adjust the amount of water supplied to the ultrasonic atomizer 401, the air blower 317, and the like, and the operation of the irradiation unit 323. For these controls, information signals from the water collecting plate temperature detection unit 327, the vegetable room temperature detection unit 325, the vegetable room humidity detection unit 326, and the door opening / closing detection unit 330 are input to the control unit 314. For example, when it is detected that the internal temperature is 5 ° C., the internal humidity is 90%, and the water collecting plate surface temperature is 4 ° C., the control unit 314 turns the ultrasonic atomizer 401 ON / OFF, heats The operation of the unit 328 is determined. In this case, the control unit 314 needs to cool the water collecting plate surface temperature below the dew point temperature. For example, the control unit 314 turns off the heating unit, reduces the input to the heating unit, or sets the temperature of the cold air. Control is performed to increase the number of revolutions of the compressor in order to reduce the number of revolutions or to reduce the number of revolutions of the blower. In addition, the control unit 314 operates the ultrasonic atomizer 401 only when the door opening / closing detection unit 330 detects that the door is closed, thereby leaking mist to the outside when the door is opened / closed. Can be prevented. Furthermore, when the stored vegetables open pores at a low temperature around 0 ° C., the low temperature damage of the vegetables is promoted and the vegetables are damaged. Moreover, if it is 15 degreeC or more, the transpiration from the vegetable surface by respiration will flourish, and it will become easy to reduce a moisture content. Therefore, if the irradiation unit 324 is turned on only when the vegetable room temperature detection unit 325 detects a range of 5 ° C. to 15 ° C., for example, efficient freshness maintenance and moisture content can be improved.

  Next, the control flow diagram of FIG. 15 will be described.

In step 21, when the surface temperature t ° C. measured by the water collecting plate surface temperature detector 327 is within the predetermined range of t _A ° C. and t _B ° C., the controller 314 controls the vegetable pores. In step 22, the ultrasonic atomizer 401 is operated to spray the mist into the storage chamber.

In step 23, the control unit 314 when the integrated operating time _{T A} of the ultrasonic atomization apparatus 401 determines that more than _{T 1,} to operate the illumination unit 323 proceeds to step 24.

In step 25, the control unit 314 when the cumulative operation time _{T A} of the ultrasonic atomization apparatus 401 determines that more than _{T 2,} the routine proceeds to step 26, and ends the mist spray, the irradiation unit even in the OFF state at the same time.

In step 27, the control unit 314 stop time of the ultrasonic atomization apparatus 401 determines that exceeds T _3, back to the initial value more timer T _A, the T _B proceeds to step 28, again water collecting plate Detect surface temperature.

  As described above, the refrigerator according to the fourth embodiment includes the heat insulation box having a storage compartment partitioned by heat insulation, and the ultrasonic atomization device as a spray unit for spraying liquid. With this configuration, the air collecting path is used to convey the low temperature cold air to each relatively low temperature storage room, and the water collecting plate for supplying water to the ultrasonic atomizer is cooled by heat conduction from the air path side. To do. By adjusting the temperature of the water collecting plate below the dew point, moisture in the air can be reliably generated, and water can be supplied to the tip of the ultrasonic atomizer vibrator by a water supply unit or the like.

  Moreover, in this Embodiment, if supply of water is enough by having used the spraying part as the ultrasonic atomizer, spraying quantity can fully be ensured. Therefore, the amount of spray can be adjusted by ON / OFF operation, and the operation time in actual use can be shortened, and the life reliability of components and the like is improved.

  Moreover, in this embodiment, by irradiating the vegetable room with an irradiation part containing blue light selected in combination with a mist spray and having a wavelength of 400 nm to 500 nm, the opening and closing of the pores can be controlled by light stimulation, Furthermore, the water supply to vegetables is improved.

  Further, in the present embodiment, since the spray unit is an ultrasonic atomizer, ozone is not generated when mist is generated, so it is not particularly necessary to take measures against ozone, and the configuration of components and control contents can be simplified. .

  In the present embodiment, the ultrasonic atomizer is provided with a water storage tank so that various functional waters such as acidic water, alkaline water, or nutrient water containing vitamins can be injected and used as vegetables. It can be sprayed indoors and various new functions can be added to the vegetable room.

  In the present embodiment, since the spraying portion is an ultrasonic atomizer, the amount of atomization can be sufficiently secured, so that agricultural chemicals and wax adhering to the vegetable surface can be lifted and removed with a very small amount of water, thus saving water. .

  Further, in this embodiment, even when a flammable refrigerant such as isobutane or propane is used as the refrigerant for the refrigeration cycle by using the ultrasonic atomizer, the arrangement of the components of the refrigeration cycle is not considered. An ultrasonic atomizer can be installed, and it is not necessary to provide special measures such as explosion-proof measures.

  Further, in the case of a refrigerator using a flammable refrigerant, no discharge occurs in the mist generating portion, so that it is not necessary to take an explosion-proof measure, and it can be configured more simply and inexpensively.

  In the present embodiment, the water collection plate is provided in the storage chamber, so that the condensation amount can be adjusted by the heating unit and the air blowing unit, and at the same time, the humidity in the cabinet is also adjusted by changing the temperature of the water collection plate. I can do it.

  In addition, the refrigerator of the present embodiment includes a horn formed in a substantially conical shape and a piezoelectric element, and an ultrasonic atomizing device in which the piezoelectric element is bonded to and integrated with one end surface of the horn in the storage chamber. It is arranged. With this configuration, a miniaturized and low-input ultrasonic atomizer can be applied to the refrigerator, so that there are few installation restrictions and design can be given flexibility. In addition, since the input is low, power consumption can be reduced, and a control board on which the control unit 314 is mounted can be reduced in size and cost.

  Moreover, since the calorific value of the ultrasonic atomizer itself can be suppressed, the temperature rise in the storage chamber can be suppressed. Moreover, since abnormal heat generation can be suppressed particularly when water shortage occurs, the life of the ultrasonic atomizer is prolonged and the reliability is improved. Furthermore, since it is used in a low-temperature atmosphere called a refrigerator, heat generation is suppressed and the ultrasonic atomizer itself can have a long life.

  In addition, by providing a water supply section, moisture is efficiently and stably supplied to the tip of the horn, so that it is always stably sprayed from the ultrasonic atomizer and the storage space can be maintained at high humidity. I can do it. Moreover, since water can be prevented from being lost at the horn tip by stably supplying moisture to the horn tip, the life of the ultrasonic atomizer is prolonged and the reliability is improved.

  Further, since the water supply part is provided in the vicinity of the stored water holding part, moisture is replenished from the stored water holding part to the tip of the horn by the water supply part, so that the water supply part can be efficiently sprayed to the storage room space. High humidity can be maintained. Moreover, since the stored water holding part and the water supply part are located in the vicinity, the structure of the water path from the stored water holding part to the horn tip can be made compact and simplified, and the degree of design freedom is improved.

  In addition, the stored water holding unit has a unit that condenses moisture in the air in the storage chamber as a water collecting unit. By supplying the condensed water to the tip of the horn by the water supply unit, the condensed water generated by the dew condensation unit is collected in the stored water holding unit. Since the condensed water collected at the tip of the horn can be constantly supplied through the supply unit, mist can be efficiently sprayed into the storage space, and the storage chamber space can be maintained at high humidity.

  In addition, since the horn is a highly heat-conductive material, heat generation is diffused throughout the horn at the horn tip, and the storage space is in a low-temperature environment, so the temperature rise of the ultrasonic atomizer itself can be suppressed. Longer service life and improved reliability.

  Further, by setting the atomized particle diameter to 0.5 μm to 20 μm, water can be forcibly supplied to the inside of the food, so that the water content of the food can be improved.

  Also, make the horn tip near the vibration belly and the flange formed on the horn's piezoelectric element bonding surface near the vibration node, and connect the flange and the refrigerator body directly or indirectly This makes it possible to efficiently atomize the water replenished to the horn tip at the abdomen where the amplitude of vibration is large, that is, the tip of the horn, and because the amplitude is small at the vibration node, ie, the flange formed on the horn. In addition, vibration transmission from the connection part directly or indirectly connected to the refrigerator can be reduced.

  In addition, the ultrasonic atomizer has a structure in which the length of the horn tip and the flange portion vibrates in a quarter wavelength mode, so that the tip of the horn that becomes the atomization surface and the horn that becomes the connection portion are formed. A single abdominal part and nodal part exist between the flange part. As a result, the horn can be reduced in size, and energy dispersion and attenuation can be reduced, so that the efficiency can be improved. Moreover, since it can be reduced in size, there are few installation restrictions, a design freedom can be given, and a storage space can be enlarged.

  Moreover, since the horn becomes small by setting the length of the horn from 1 mm to 20 mm, the refrigerator design can have a degree of freedom and the storage space can be enlarged.

  Moreover, since a user etc. cannot touch directly by providing a cover member around an ultrasonic atomizer, safety can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, the ultrasonic atomizer has been described using a horn formed in a substantially conical shape. However, if the shape is not a substantially conical shape but amplifies the amplitude of vibration at the tip. Similar effects can be obtained. For example, a tapered shape from the piezoelectric element side toward the tip can be formed into a substantially rectangular shape at the tip. This increases the area over which the mist is sprayed compared to the circular shape, so that the spray range is expanded and the diffusibility is improved.

(Embodiment 5)
FIG. 16 is a longitudinal sectional view in the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a front view of the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment of the present invention. The same parts and members as those of the first embodiment may be indicated by the same numbers.

In the fifth embodiment, the refrigerator 221 is partitioned by a partition 222 having heat insulation properties. A vegetable container 228 is installed in the vegetable room 225, stores food in the space, and is cooled to 4 to 6 ° C. at a humidity of about 90% RH or more (when food is stored). A rear compartment 230 for partitioning the air passage 229 and the vegetable compartment 225 is provided on the back of the vegetable compartment 225. An ultrasonic atomizer 401 is provided on the outer wall 402 of the left side surface portion of the refrigerator 221.

There is an air passage 229 between the internal partition 230 and the refrigerator outer wall 402. For example, the cool air generated by the cooler 242 is transferred to each storage room, or the air exchanged heat from each storage room is sent to the cooler. It is provided for transport. Here, the ultrasonic atomizer 401 is installed on the outer wall of the left side surface portion of the refrigerator 221 and the top surface of the vegetable compartment 225, that is, the partition 222 having heat insulation properties. The partition 222 having heat insulation is mainly composed of a heat insulating material such as polystyrene foam.

  There is a switching chamber 224 above the vegetable chamber 225, and the switching chamber 224 has a switching chamber container. As a cooling method, the switching chamber 224 has, for example, a cool air discharge port 413 and a suction port 414 in a part of the back surface, and the temperature is adjusted by adjusting the amount of the cool air and the operation of a heating unit (not shown). A water collecting plate 321 is provided in the upper part of the ultrasonic atomizing device 401, and a cover member 406 that is inclined so that water flows through the ultrasonic atomizing device 401 is provided. The back surface of the water collecting plate 321 has a thinner wall thickness than the surrounding heat insulating material. Further, the water collecting plate 321 is configured with an air passage by the cover member 406, and a blower 317 is provided in a part thereof.

  Furthermore, the cover member 406 on the top surface of the vegetable compartment 225 is provided with an irradiating section 323 for irradiating light with a specific wavelength selected and a diffusion plate 324 for diffusing the light throughout the interior.

The switching chamber 224 is used from the freezing temperature zone to the refrigeration temperature zone. For example, when the freezer temperature is set, cold air flows from the discharge port 413 and the internal temperature becomes about −20 ° C. Since the upper surface (switching chamber side) of the thinned partition 222 is at a temperature around −20 ° C., the upper surface of the vegetable chamber 225 is cooled by heat conduction from the switching chamber. In the fifth embodiment, a heating unit 328 and a surface temperature detection unit are provided on the back surface of the water collecting plate 321, and the surface temperature is controlled below the dew point temperature by these so Water is generated by condensing the water vapor that has penetrated by opening and closing.

  The water dripped from the water collecting plate 321 is received by the cover member 406 and collected in the water storage tank 315 provided in the stored water holding unit 404 along the inclined cover member 406. Accordingly, the water supply unit 403 sufficiently contains water, and in this state, mist is generated from the ultrasonic atomizer 401 and sprayed to the vegetable compartment 225. The mist sprayed by this makes the inside of the vegetable compartment 225 highly humid again. At the same time, by irradiating the inside of the vegetable container 228 with the irradiation unit selected in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm, the pores of the vegetables stored in the vegetable room 225 are opened. With the pores open, mist adheres to the surface of vegetables and fruits, and mist penetrates into the tissue from the pores. As a result, the water is evaporated, the water is supplied again into the deflated cells, the deflation is eliminated by the bulging pressure of the cells, and the state returns to a crispy state.

  In addition, the amount of condensation on the water collecting plate 321 can be controlled using the air blowing unit 317.

  As described above, in the fifth embodiment, the water collection plate attached to the top partition of the vegetable room and the low-temperature cold air generated in the switching room as the cooling source, The water collecting plate is cooled by heat conduction from the switching chamber side. By adjusting the surface temperature of the water collecting plate below the dew point using the heating unit and the air blowing unit, moisture in the air can be reliably condensed on the water collecting plate. Water collected by condensation is collected in a water storage tank provided in the storage water holding unit, and water is supplied to the ultrasonic atomizer by the water supply unit. Mist can be reliably sprayed on the vegetable container from the upper left side of the vegetable compartment, and by attaching the mist to the vegetable surface, the moisture retention of the vegetable can be improved and the freshness can be improved.

  The water storage tank 315 is detachably installed with respect to the stored water holding unit 404. Therefore, when the amount of vegetables stored in the vegetable compartment is small or when the humidity is relatively low immediately after the start of operation of the refrigerator, water can be replenished in advance in the water storage tank, so that the moisture retention can be improved more stably. I can do it.

  Moreover, since the ultrasonic atomizer and the water tank are on the door side, they are easy to remove and easy to maintain.

  Further, in the fifth embodiment, the combination of the water storage tank and the dew condensation system has been described. However, when sufficient water can be secured to spray the mist, the water storage tank can be eliminated. Thereby, the effective volume of a storage room can be increased.

  In the fifth embodiment, the switching room is used as the cooling source for the vegetable room. However, a freezing room or an ice making room may be used as the cooling source. As a result, the temperature becomes constant and the control unit is simplified.

  As described above, the refrigerator of the present invention can stably supply dew condensation water, so that mist can be efficiently sprayed on the storage space and the storage room space can be maintained at high humidity. It can also be used for refrigerators, food storage, and cold cars.

Side sectional view of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the spray section of the refrigerator in Embodiment 1 of the present invention Control flow chart of refrigerator in Embodiment 1 of the present invention Longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the spray section of the refrigerator in Embodiment 2 of the present invention Longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the water collection part of the refrigerator in Embodiment 3 of the present invention Action spectrum diagram of blue light-induced pore opening in Embodiment 3 of the present invention The characteristic figure of the wavelength of an irradiation part, and a pore opening degree in Embodiment 3 of this invention Functional block diagram of the refrigerator in Embodiment 3 of the present invention Control flow diagram of refrigerator in embodiment 3 of the present invention Sectional drawing of the refrigerator in Embodiment 4 of this invention Longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Front view of the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment of the present invention Vertical sectional view of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fourth embodiment of the present invention Functional block diagram in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Control flow diagram in Embodiment 4 of the present invention Longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment of the present invention Front view of the vicinity of the ultrasonic atomizer of the refrigerator in the fifth embodiment of the present invention Schematic diagram of a vegetable room in a conventional refrigerator

Explanation of symbols

221 Refrigerator 222 Partition 222a Recessed part 223 Refrigerated room 224 Switching room 225 Vegetable room 226 Freezer room 228 Vegetable container 229 Air channel 230 Interior partition 231 Spraying part 232 Water supply device 233, 310 Door 241 Compressor 242 Cooler (evaporator)
270 Ozone water 271 Ozone water path 272 Ozone water supply port 273 Ozone generator 275 Mist spraying device 276 Spray nozzle 281 Water supply path 282 Water supply port 291 Electrode 292 Power supply 293 Electrolyzer 294 Partition 295 Anode electrode plate 296 Cathode electrode plate 297 DC Power supply 298 Reservoir supply part 299, 304a Spray tip part 300 Capillary supply structure 301 Electrode 304 Electrostatic atomizer 305 Holder 306 Application electrode 307 Water retention material 308 Counter electrode 309 Voltage application part 312 Temperature detection part 313 Heating part 314 Control part 315 Water storage tank 316 Reserved water 317 Blowing unit 321 Water collecting plate 322 Water supply device 323 Irradiating unit 324 Diffusion plate 325 Inside (vegetable room) temperature detecting unit 326 Inside (vegetable room) humidity detecting unit 327 Water collecting plate surface temperature detecting Part 328 Part 329 cover member 401 ultrasonic atomizing unit 402 refrigerator outer wall

Claims (7)

It has a storage room partitioned by a partition made of a heat insulating material, and an atomization device that is a spray unit provided in the partition, and is provided in a space adjacent to the partition provided with the atomization device. The atomization device and the member that condenses moisture in the air provided at a location where the wall thickness is thinner than the other portions in the partition are cooled to a dew point temperature or less by heat conduction from the cooling source. The refrigerator which replenishes the said atomizer with the water which condensed the water | moisture content in the air of the vicinity of the said atomizer. The refrigerator according to claim 1 , wherein the member that condenses moisture in the air with a cooling source is a spray tip provided in the atomizer. Member for condensing moisture in the air by the cooling source is water collected plate provided in the vicinity of the atomization device, a refrigerator according to claim 1 for supplying water droplets is condensation on the water collection plate to the atomizer. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the space adjacent to the partition provided with the atomizing device is an upper storage chamber adjacent to the storage chamber provided with the atomizing device. The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the space adjacent to the partition provided with the atomizing device is an air passage located on the back surface of the storage chamber provided with the atomizing device. The refrigerator as described in any one of Claim 1 to 5 which has a heating part which adjusts the dew point temperature of the member which condenses water vapor | steam with a cooling source. The atomizing device is an electrostatic atomizing device, and the electrostatic atomizing device is electrically connected to a voltage application unit that generates a voltage and includes an application electrode that is a spray tip, and the application electrode is cooled. by being cooled by the source, the moisture generated by dew condensation water droplets in the air of the electrostatic atomization apparatus near to one of claims 1 or 2 or 4 to 6 for atomization by said application electrode The refrigerator described.