JP5332140B2 - Atomization device and storage device equipped with the atomization device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To solve the problem that there is a possibility that the contact of water with microorganisms such as bacteria suspended in a storage space causes propagation of the microorganisms in water and the microorganisms propagated during the storage in a state that sterilization effect is insufficient are released as they are alive into the storage space with mist water containing the microorganisms by an atomizer. <P>SOLUTION: The refrigerator of the storage apparatus has a water storage part 42 for storing a liquid and an atomizer arranged to incorporate a sterilization unit in which a first electrode 48a and a second electrode 48b each having different ionization tendency are arranged at a position opposed to each other in the water storage part 42 with a certain interval and a short circuit part for short-circuiting between the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b. As a result, the propagation of the microorganism in the inside water is suppressed to sterilize with a simple structure without using power while keeping high safety and continuity and attaining a low cost and humidity of the storage space (vegetable chamber) of the refrigerator is kept high by spraying safe mist and freshness of vegetables is kept for a long period of time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an ultrasonic atomizing device that supplies atomized water to fresh products such as vegetables stored in a storage room space, and a storage device such as a refrigerator in which the atomizing device is installed.

  In recent years, for example, in a refrigerator for home use, a sealed vegetable container is provided to cool the vegetable to an appropriate temperature, the vegetable container is humidified, and mist water is sprayed into the container. In addition, refrigerators that preserve the freshness of vegetables and the like for a long time have been proposed.

  As a conventional humidifying method in the case of spraying mist, there is one using an ultrasonic atomizer (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view of a vegetable room of a refrigerator provided with the ultrasonic atomizing device described in Patent Document 1. FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view showing a main part of the ultrasonic atomizer.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the vegetable compartment is arranged in the lower part of the main body case 3 constituting the refrigerator main body 1, and the front opening thereof is closed by a drawer door 5 that is freely opened and closed. Moreover, the vegetable compartment is partitioned off by the partition plate 4 from the refrigerator compartment (not shown) above it.

  A fixed hanger 6 is fixed to the inner surface of the drawer door 5, and a vegetable case 2 for storing food such as vegetables is mounted on the fixed hanger 6. The top opening of the vegetable case 2 is sealed with a lid 7. A thawing chamber 8 is provided inside the vegetable case 2, and an ultrasonic atomizing device 9 is provided in the thawing chamber 8.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the ultrasonic atomizer 9 is provided with a mist outlet 10, a water storage container 11, a humidity sensor 12, and a hose receiver 13. The water storage container 11 is connected to a defrost water hose 14 (FIG. 8) by a hose receiver 13. The defrost water hose 14 is provided with a purification filter 15 for purifying the defrost water at a part thereof.

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

  Cooling air cooled by a heat exchange cooler (not shown) circulates around the vegetable case 2 and the lid 7. The vegetable case 2 is cooled by the flow of this cooling air, 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 15 when passing through the defrost water hose 14 and supplied to the water storage container 11 of the ultrasonic atomizer 9.

  Next, when the humidity sensor 12 detects that the internal humidity is 90% or less, the ultrasonic atomizing device 9 starts humidification, so that the humidity in the vegetable case 2 is kept at a suitable level. Humidity can be adjusted.

  On the other hand, when the humidity sensor 12 detects that the internal humidity is 90% or more, the ultrasonic atomizer 9 stops excessive humidification.

  As a result, the vegetable compartment can be quickly humidified by the ultrasonic atomizer 9, the inside of the vegetable compartment is always at a high humidity, the transpiration action of the vegetable etc. is suppressed, and the freshness of the vegetable etc. can be maintained.

  Moreover, as a method of supplying water to the ultrasonic atomizer 9, there is one configured in another form (for example, see Patent Document 2).

  FIG. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view showing a configuration around the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator provided with the ultrasonic atomizer described in Patent Document 2. FIG. 11 is a longitudinal sectional view of the ultrasonic atomizer and the cover.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the main body 1 of the refrigerator is composed of a heat-insulating box, and a vegetable room equipped with a drawer-type vegetable case 2 is provided at an intermediate portion in the vertical direction in the main body 1. . Above the vegetable compartment in the main body 1, a refrigerated compartment (only part of which is shown) is arranged via a partition plate 16. The vegetable room is configured to be slightly hotter and higher in humidity than the refrigerated room. Further, below the vegetable compartment in the main body 1, an ice making chamber (only part of which is shown) and a temperature switching chamber (not shown) are arranged side by side through a heat insulating partition wall 17, and further below the freezer compartment. (Not shown) is provided.

  The refrigeration space is circulated through a duct having a refrigeration cooler 18 and a fan (not shown) disposed on the back surface, and the refrigeration space is a refrigeration cooler disposed on the back surface. The cool air is circulated from ducts (both not shown) provided with a fan, and each is controlled to be maintained at a set temperature.

  A cover 19 that covers the upper surface opening of the vegetable case 2 is provided at the top of the vegetable compartment. The cover 19 covers the top opening of the vegetable container 2 when the vegetable compartment door 2a closes the opening of the vegetable compartment, so that the inside of the vegetable container 2 is in a semi-sealed state. It is configured.

  The cover 19 is made of a metal plate such as an aluminum plate, for example, and an atomizing device 9 is disposed on the lower surface of the deepest portion 20 of the cover 19 as shown in FIGS. . The atomizing device 9 includes a water storage tank 21, a water supply core 22, an ultrasonic transducer 23, and a spring 24. The water storage tank 21 is formed in a shallow circular container shape.

  The water supply core 22 is formed of a rod-like felt fiber, is provided so as to penetrate the center of the bottom of the water storage tank 21, and the upper part thereof is immersed in the water in the water storage tank 21. On the lower end surface of the water supply core 22, an ultrasonic vibrator 23 is held by a spring 24 so as to always contact the water supply core 22. The ultrasonic vibrator 23 is constituted by a disk-type vibrator formed by forming nickel or stainless steel corrosion-resistant electrodes on a piezoelectric element such as lead zirconate titanate or barium titanate.

  And the mist-like water | moisture-content microparticles | fine-particles produced | generated on the smooth surface of the ultrasonic transducer | vibrator 23 are supplied in the vegetable case 2, and it is comprised so that the inside of the vegetable case 2 may be hold | maintained in a high-humidity atmosphere. ing.

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

  The vegetable room, that is, the outside of the vegetable case 2 and the cover 19 is cooled by circulating cold air. And since the vegetable is accommodated in the inside of the vegetable container 2 and the cover 19, and mist is supplied by the atomizer 9, the inside becomes the atmosphere of high humidity.

  For this reason, dew condensation occurs on the inner surface of the cover 19 made of a metal plate. Then, the water droplet moves downward along the inclined surface portion of the cover 19, reaches the lower surface of the deepest portion 20, and then drops into the water storage tank 21 of the atomizing device 9.

  Thereby, moisture condensed on the inner surface of the cover 19 is guided and stored in the water storage tank 13 of the atomizing device 9.

  Further, the water in the water storage tank 21 is impregnated in the water supply core 22 and adheres to the ultrasonic transducer 23. Then, it is made mist by the vibration of the ultrasonic vibrator 23 and supplied into the vegetable case 2.

  Thereby, the inside of the vegetable case 2 is kept at high humidity.

Furthermore, a humidifier equipped with a sterilization unit is known (for example, see Patent Document 3).
JP-A-6-257933 JP 2006-162195 A JP 2004-93108 A

  However, in the conventional configuration described in Patent Document 1, the defrost water generated from the cooler is purified by the purification filter 15 when passing through the defrost water hose 14, but after passing through the purification filter 15. In the path until atomization, the microorganism may come into contact with microorganisms such as bacteria floating in the storage space. As a result, the microorganisms may propagate in the atomized water.

  Therefore, the mist water containing microorganisms may be sprayed into the storage space by the atomizing device 9 such as an ultrasonic method, and there is a possibility that the microorganisms grown during the storage will be released alive. It was.

  Moreover, in the structure described in the said patent document 2, after the water droplet which arose by condensation moved below along the inclined surface part of the cover 19, and reached the lower surface of the deepest part 20, the water storage tank of the atomization apparatus 9 11 is dripped and stored. Therefore, similarly to the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, there is a possibility that microorganisms and the like may propagate in water by contacting with microorganisms such as bacteria floating in the storage space, and store mist water containing microorganisms. There was a possibility that microorganisms that were dispersed in the space or that proliferated during storage were released alive.

  Furthermore, it is also conceivable to suppress the growth of microorganisms by adding or applying an antibacterial material to the constituent members where water is stored or passes through as a countermeasure against the growth of microorganisms.

  However, since the antibacterial effect in this case is exhibited only on the surface of the member to which the antibacterial material is added or applied, it is insufficient for the entire water to be sprayed. The effect of suppressing the growth of microorganisms in the water flowing in the inside of the gasification apparatus 9 is low.

  Further, since the humidifying device described in Patent Document 3 is a configuration in which the electrodes are arranged above and below, the amount of water stored for the vertical interval is required at least, and such a configuration naturally increases in size. Not suitable for incorporation into storage devices such as refrigerators. Furthermore, it requires air blowing means to promote high humidity, and when applied to a storage device such as a refrigerator, the room may dry, and some improvement measures are required for application in a storage device such as a refrigerator. is there.

  The present invention solves the above-described conventional problems, and can make an atomizing device that can suppress and disinfect microorganisms with respect to water in a water storage section with a simple configuration, and particularly requires electric power. In other words, the power consumption is small, the safety and the sustainability are high, and the bacteria can be sterilized or the growth of microorganisms can be suppressed at a low cost.

  Moreover, by using the atomizing device, a safe mist is sprayed on a storage space such as a vegetable room, the storage space is maintained at high humidity, and the freshness of fresh food such as vegetables is maintained for a long period of time. Alternatively, it is an object of the present invention to provide a storage device capable of maintaining the storage space in an aseptic environment or an environment close thereto.

In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, an atomization apparatus according to the present invention includes a water storage unit that stores water, an atomization unit that atomizes water in the water storage unit, and a spray port that also serves to maintain the water level of the water storage unit. , comprising a sterilization unit for the growth inhibition of sterilization or microorganism of the water in the water storage section, the sterilization unit, being disposed opposite to each other at an interval, and a part of water in the water storage section The first electrode and the second electrode with different ionization tendency immersed therein and the short-circuit portion that short-circuits the first electrode and the second electrode, and the vibration portion of the atomization portion is the The water stored in the water storage unit is attached to the water storage unit so as to adhere to the tip using the surface tension action of the water, and is formed by the first electrode and the second electrode of the sterilization unit. The surface tension does not affect the surface tension action at the vibrating part of the atomizing part Sea urchin, a vibration portion of the atomization unit, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode of the sterilization units arranged with a predetermined interval, further, the lower side of the spray nozzle and the lower than the short-circuit portion It is set to be .

  Moreover, the storage apparatus of this invention can maintain the storage chamber in the sterilized high-humidity environment by the atomization effect | action of the said atomization apparatus.

  According to the present invention, by incorporating a sterilization unit, water that is atomized over a long period of time is maintained in a sanitary manner, and water that is atomized and scattered (mist) is also sterilized or aseptic. Highly safe spraying can be performed.

  Further, in the above-described atomization, a vibration type or ultrasonic type atomization device can be used, and as a result, a simple configuration can be obtained. Further, when sterilizing or suppressing the growth of microorganisms, no power is required or a small amount of power is consumed, and the safety and sustainability are high, which can be realized at low cost.

  In addition, according to the present invention, the storage chamber can be maintained in a sterilized high-humidity environment by the atomizing action of the atomizing device, and the preservation of articles that require humidity maintenance including fresh vegetables and the like can be performed. It can be performed stably.

The invention according to claim 1 is a water storage section that stores water, an atomization section that atomizes water in the water storage section, a spray port that also serves to maintain the water level of the water storage section, and water removal in the water storage section. It has a sterilization unit that suppresses the growth of bacteria or microorganisms, the sterilization units are arranged at positions facing each other at intervals, and the ionization tendency is partially immersed in water in the water storage section. The first electrode, the second electrode, and a short-circuit portion that short-circuits the first electrode and the second electrode are provided. The vibration portion of the atomization portion is formed by water stored in the water storage portion. The surface tension formed by the first electrode and the second electrode of the sterilization unit is attached to the water storage section so as to adhere to the tip using the surface tension action of the water, and the atomization section In order not to affect the surface tension action in the vibration part, the vibration part of the atomization part , Wherein the first electrode and the second electrode of the sterilization units arranged with a predetermined interval, further, in which the lower side of the spray nozzle was set to be lower than the short-circuit portion.

  By adopting such a configuration, water that is atomized over a long period of time is maintained in a sanitary manner, and water that is atomized and scattered (mist) is also sterilized or aseptic, and as a result, spray with high safety. Can be done. Moreover, when sterilizing the water to be atomized or suppressing the growth of microorganisms, it can be realized with a simple structure, no electric power, high safety and sustainability, and low cost.

Invention of Claim 2 provides the supply part which supplies water to the water storage part in the invention of Claim 1, and in the water path from the supply part to the atomization part, the sterilization unit, It arrange | positions between the said supply part and the said atomization part.

  By setting it as this structure, the disinfection effect | action can be exhibited until just before mist is sprayed from an atomization part.

The invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the sterilization unit is provided below the supply unit, and a lower end of the electrode is disposed below the atomization unit. Is.

  In this way, the supplied water can be supplied to the atomization unit that generates mist after sterilization, and hygienic mist (mist) can be stably generated.

The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein an interval between the first electrode and the second electrode is 30 mm or less. The flow of ionized electrons can be improved due to the difference in ionization tendency, and the effect of sterilization or the growth inhibition of microorganisms can be improved.

Invention of Claim 5 uses the ultrasonic vibration type | formula for the said atomization part in the invention as described in any one of Claim 1 to 4 , This produces | generates a fine mist It is possible to form a high-humidity environment preferable for fresh products such as vegetables.

The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the box includes a lid or door for opening and closing, and stores and stores articles and the like therein, and the box An atomizing device that supplies water in an atomized state is provided, and the atomizing device is a storage device that is an atomizing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

  Therefore, since hygienic mist is supplied into the box, the box can be maintained in a hygienic and humid environment, and contamination and damage of stored items due to various germs can be suppressed and stabilized. The storage period can be extended.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, taking a refrigerator as an example of a storage device. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a longitudinal sectional view of the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a view as seen from an arrow A in FIG. 2 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 3 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a view taken along arrow C in FIG. 3 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

  1 and 2, the refrigerator 31 corresponds to the box 32 having heat insulation, the partitions 33a, 33b, and 33c that divide the box 32 into a plurality of storage rooms, and each of the storage rooms. Doors 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d. The partitions 33a, 33b, and 33c are formed of a heat insulating material as necessary. Further, as a result of the partitioning by the partitions 33a, 33b, and 33c, the storage rooms are arranged in the order of the refrigeration room 35, the multipurpose room 36 such as the switching room or the ice making room, the vegetable room 37, and the freezing room 38 from the top. Yes.

  The vegetable compartment 37 is provided with a vegetable compartment container 37a, accommodates food in the space, and is cooled to 4 to 6 ° C. with a humidity of about 80% RH or more (during food storage). Further, on the back surface of the vegetable compartment 37, an air compartment 39 and an internal partition 40 for partitioning the vegetable compartment 37 are provided. The internal partition 40 is provided with an atomizing device 41 described later.

  The above-described air passage 39 is formed between the internal partition 40 and the outer wall 32 of the main body, and the air passage 39 is for cooling each storage compartment partitioned in the refrigerator 31, and is compressed. Machine 50, a condenser (not shown), a decompression device (not shown) such as an expansion valve and a capillary tube, a cooler 51, piping connected to a circuit for circulating these components, and further in the circuit In the refrigeration cycle composed of a refrigerant or the like sealed in, the cooling air generated by the cooler 51 is transported to each storage chamber, or the heat exchanged from each storage chamber is transported to the cooler 51. It has been. Here, an atomizing device 41 including an ultrasonic vibration device corresponding to the vegetable compartment 37 is incorporated in the internal partition 40.

  Next, the atomizer 41 and the configuration for supplying water to the atomizer 41 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5.

  In the vegetable compartment 37, a water recovery unit 52 for supplying water to the atomizer 41 is provided. The water recovery unit 52 is installed at the bottom of the partition 33b disposed at the top of the vegetable compartment 37, and is disposed at the bottom of the cooling plate 53 made of a highly thermally conductive metal or resin such as aluminum or stainless steel. A water recovery cover 54 provided with a supply part (water injection port) 47 that receives the liquid condensed on the plate 53 and supplies the condensed and collected water to the atomizing device 41 is provided.

  Here, on one surface of the cooling plate 53, for example, a heating means 55 such as a heater made of nichrome wire, a planar heating element, a PTC heater or the like is provided so as to be able to conduct heat. There is provided temperature detecting means 56 for detecting. And the temperature control of the cooling plate 53 is performed by determining the energization rate of the heating means 55 according to the detected temperature of the temperature detection means 56. Therefore, the surface temperature of the cooling plate 53 can be maintained within a predetermined range, the dew condensation state on the cooling plate 53 can be stabilized, and an appropriate amount of dew condensation water can be generated and supplied to the atomizing device 41.

  The atomization device 41 is provided at a position at a predetermined height from the bottom surface of the water storage unit 42 in order to maintain a constant water level (water amount) in the water storage unit 42 and the water storage unit 42 that stores water droplets from the supply unit 47. A spray port 49, an atomizing part 41 a attached to the water storage part 42 so that water stored in the water storage part 42 adheres to the tip using the surface tension action of the water, and water to the atomization part 41 a The guide part 43 (FIG. 3) which is arrange | positioned in the vicinity of the front-end | tip of the atomization part 41a and produces | generates surface tension between the atomization part 41a is provided.

  Here, the spray port 49 also has a function of draining excess water so as to retain a certain amount of water in the water reservoir 42 as described above, and also serves as a drain port of the present invention.

  Further, the atomization device 41 is provided with a sterilization unit 48 to be described later, and performs sterilization of water in the water storage section 42 or suppression of growth of microorganisms.

  Further, the atomizing unit 41 a employs a Langevin type ultrasonic vibration device in which the vibrating unit 44, the first electrode unit 45 a, the piezoelectric element 46, and the second electrode unit 45 b are sequentially arranged. The adhering water is attached by adjusting its angle and the like so that the atomized mist is mainly ejected toward the spray port 49 side. In the first embodiment, when the arrangement direction of the atomizing portion 41a is used as an axis, the axis is set to be parallel or slightly upward (elevation angle) with the water surface WF (FIG. 3).

  As for the vibration part 44 which comprises the atomization part 41a, the front-end | tip part (atomization surface) 44F becomes smaller than the bottom face part (the piezoelectric element 46 attachment side) by cutting, sintering, a casting mold, etc. Since it is processed to have a step, it has a convex shape, and the surface of the tip 44F is a circle as shown in FIG. In other words, the shape of the vibration part 44 in the first embodiment is a shape in which cylinders with different diameters are arranged coaxially, but the cylinder (piezoelectric element 46 mounting side) and a rectangular column having a rectangular cross section are coaxially arranged. The arranged shape may be used.

  In any case, the convex shape of the vibration part 44 is formed so that the cross-sectional area ratio of the large diameter part (the piezoelectric element 46 side) and the small diameter part (tip part) is about 1/5 or less. The side shape of the portion (tip portion) is formed depending on the oscillation frequency of the piezoelectric element 46.

  The vibrating portion 44, the first electrode portion 45a, the piezoelectric element portion 46, and the second electrode portion 45b are arranged in that order, and are bonded and fixed with an epoxy or silicon-based adhesive between the respective connections. The configuration is such that the vibration oscillated by the element 46 is amplified so as to have a maximum amplitude at the atomization surface 44F which is the tip of the vibration part 44.

  Moreover, the vibration part 44 is preferably 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 in view of lightness, high thermal conductivity, and amplitude amplification performance during ultrasonic transmission. From the viewpoint of extending the service life, it is desirable to select a material mainly composed of stainless steel.

  Further, the attachment of the atomizing part 41 a will be described in detail. The atomizing part 41 a is fixed so that the tip of the vibration part 44 is exposed to the inside of the water storage part 42 from the outside of the water storage part 42. Furthermore, the component parts (electrodes, piezoelectric elements, electrical connection parts, etc.) exposed to the outside of the water storage part 42 are entirely coated with silicon resin, epoxy resin, acrylic resin, etc., and have a dustproof and waterproof structure. As for such a coating, it is preferable to select a coating mainly composed of a flexible silicone resin from the viewpoint of amplitude amplification performance during ultrasonic transmission. By coating with silicon resin or the like, moisture and liquid can be prevented from entering the bonded portion with the vibrating portion 44, the first electrode portion 45a, the piezoelectric element portion 46, and the second electrode portion 45b, and the adhesive deteriorates. Therefore, the long-term reliability of the atomizing device 41 can be ensured.

  3 and 4, the sterilization unit 48, which is a component of the atomization device 41, short-circuits the first electrode 48a, the second electrode 48b, and the first and second electrodes 48a, 48b. The short circuit part 48c is the main component. The first and second electrodes 48a and 48b are formed of materials having different ionization tendencies, and are fixed in advance so as to be opposed to each other with a gap using, for example, a spacer or a positioning component. In this state, the water storage section 42 is arranged so as to be perpendicular to the water surface WF and so that a predetermined portion is always immersed in the water in the water storage section 42.

  In addition, the vibration portion 44 and the electrodes 48a and 48b are in a state where the surface tension of water acts at the contact portions with water, but the surface tension formed by the electrode portions 48a and 48b does not affect the atomization. They are arranged at a certain interval.

  Here, if the distance between the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b is 30 mm or less, practical disinfection performance is exhibited, and in order to further improve the performance, it is arranged in the range of 500 μm to 6 mm. It is preferable to do. Further, it was confirmed that the surface tension formed by the electrode portions 48a and 48b has no effect on the spray when the distance between the vibrating portion 44 and the electrodes 48a and 48b is 20 mm or more.

  On the other hand, in order to arrange them at intervals of 20 mm or less, it is possible to provide a wall (not shown) that inhibits the surface tension formed by the electrode portions 48a and 48b between the vibrating portion 44 and the electrodes 48a and 48b. It is.

  The short-circuit portion 48c short-circuits the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b at a height that does not contact the water in the water storage portion 42. Accordingly, the spray port 49 is set so that its lower side is below the short-circuit portion 48c, and the short-circuit portion 48c is prevented from coming into contact with the liquid by maintaining the water level.

  In the first embodiment, the spray port 49 serves as a drain port, but a drain port 62 (FIG. 3) may be provided separately. In such a case, it is provided below the short-circuit portion 48c, and the lower side of the spray port 49 and the lower side of the drain port 62 may be provided at substantially the same height.

  Here, as a material of each electrode, for example, the monopolar potential of the material constituting the first electrode 48a is higher than the monopolar potential of the material constituting the second electrode 48b. Table 1 shows electrode materials that can be used in the present invention and their monopolar potentials in water or aqueous solutions.

  As a combination of the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b, materials having different monopolar potentials may be used. However, in order to further ensure the sterilization effect, the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b are combined. It is desirable that the potential difference between the electrodes 48b be about 1.0V.

  In the first embodiment, a combination of copper (Cu) for the first electrode 48a and zinc (Zn) for the second electrode 48b is selected as an inexpensive and easily available material. Moreover, each electrode does not necessarily need to be a pure metal, and it is also possible to use an alloy. Furthermore, it is possible to form the insulating base material by coating by vapor deposition of a selected metal.

  The electrode structure and / or shape may be any one that does not impair the disinfection effect. For example, when the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b are immersed in water, microorganisms move from the first electrode 48a having a high monopolar potential to the second electrode 48b having a low monopolar potential. The first electrode 48a can be formed into a porous body or a mesh in consideration of the flowability of water.

  Further, the second electrode 48b may have the same shape, but a plate shape is preferable in order to reliably capture the moving microorganisms. In addition, since the second electrode 48b is ionized and the electrode is eluted, the thickness or size of the electrode is set so that the second electrode 48b is thicker or larger than the first electrode 48a in consideration of the lifetime. Is preferred. Further, from the viewpoint of extending the life of the electrode, in order to ensure the necessary sterilization performance, in the short circuit portion 48c, for example, using an electric resistor or the like, the elution speed of the electrode may be changed to extend the life. Is possible.

  In addition, since the sterilization unit 48 is provided between the supply unit 47 and the vibration unit 44, the condensed and recovered water is efficiently sterilized, and the sterilized liquid is sprayed from the vibration unit 44. It becomes. Therefore, even if the sterilization unit 48 is provided at a position away from the supply unit 47, it is sufficient if water is stored and immersed in the sterilization unit 48, so that the sterilization effect can be exhibited. Arranging immediately before 47 and immediately before the vibrating part 44 is preferable in view of the fact that the sterilization / microorganism growth inhibitory effect can be expected more and the atomization device 41 is compact.

  Furthermore, by adding an antibacterial function such as a material in which an antibacterial agent is kneaded or a material coated on the surface to the water storage unit 42, the growth of microorganisms in the stored water in the atomization device 41 can be further suppressed.

  The water condensed and collected from the water recovery unit 52 is supplied to the water storage unit 42 from the supply unit 47 provided on the upper part of the atomization device 41. When the water amount reaches a predetermined amount, microorganisms in the liquid are removed by the sterilization unit 48. Water is supplied to the vibration unit 44 side. In the supply, surface tension acts between the guide portion 43 and the vibration portion 44, and water adheres to the front end surface 44 </ b> F of the vibration portion 44. When the atomizing portion 41a is energized in this state, capillary waves are generated by the vibration of the vibrating portion 44, and the attached water is atomized from several μm to several tens of μm to become mist (mist).

  The atomized water is sprayed into the vegetable compartment 37 from the spray port 49 as a mist, and acts so that the vegetable compartment 37 becomes a high humidity environment.

  About the refrigerator 31 comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement is demonstrated below.

  First, the vegetables and fruits stored in the vegetable room 37 usually include those that are slightly deflated by transpiration at the time of purchase return or transpiration during storage, and the storage environment is usually outside air. Fluctuates due to temperature fluctuations, the influence of door opening / closing, and the operating state of the refrigeration cycle.

  Therefore, the atomizing device 41 is operated at regular intervals, for example, 1 minute ON, 9 minutes OFF, and the water in the water storage section 47 is atomized, and the amount of atomization is adjusted to the mist in the vegetable compartment 37. As a result, the inside of the vegetable compartment 37 is quickly humidified.

  For example, when the vegetable compartment 37 of the refrigerator 31 is assumed, the temperature in the cabinet (in the vegetable compartment 37) is maintained at approximately 3 ° C. to 5 ° C., and the humidity in the cabinet is maintained at about 80%. The dew point temperature at that time is 1.8 ° C. or lower, and if it is lower than this temperature, the water vapor in the vegetable compartment 37 condenses and becomes a liquid. That is, when the surface temperature of the cooling plate 53 is set to be equal to or lower than the dew point temperature, moisture in the room is condensed on the surface of the cooling plate 53 to form water droplets. Specifically, the temperature state of the surface is grasped by the cooling plate temperature detecting means 56 installed on the cooling plate 53, and the heater 55, which is a heating means, is turned on / off so as to be below the dew point temperature calculated in advance. Control and cause condensation on the cooling plate 53. In particular, although not shown here, if there is an internal temperature detection means, an internal humidity detection means, or the like in the storage (in the vegetable compartment 37), the dew point temperature is strictly calculated according to changes in the internal environment by calculation. be able to. Even if ice or frost is formed on the surface of the cooling plate 53, the cooling plate control means (not shown) raises the surface temperature of the cooling plate 53 to the melting temperature to recover water appropriately. Can do.

  That is, moisture in the air in the vegetable compartment 37 is condensed on the cooling plate 53 and water droplets attached to the cooling plate 53 are grown. Eventually, the water drops drop onto the water recovery cover 54 by their own weight, flow through the water recovery cover 54, and flow into the water storage part 42 from the supply part 47 provided at the upper part of the atomizer 41. In this way, the microorganisms in the water are physically removed by the sterilization unit 48 when it flows into the water reservoir 42.

  Then, when the sterilized water is supplied to the vibrating portion 44 side, the liquid adheres to the tip surface 44F of the vibrating portion 44 due to the surface tension action between the guide portion 43 and the vibrating portion 44, and the vibrating portion 44. Capillary waves are generated by this vibration, and water is atomized to several μm to several tens of μm and sprayed as mist.

  In this Embodiment 1, since the water to generate mist is collected from the air in the vegetable compartment 37 as dew condensation, it cannot be said that the water supplied to the atomizer 41 is stable. Even in the case of a small amount of stored water (low water level) in such a state, in order to exert the effect of the sterilization unit 48, the liquid level of the liquid in which the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b are stored is used. They are arranged vertically and spaced apart from each other. Therefore, the sterilization unit 48 can always contact the stored water and exhibit the sterilization or microorganism growth suppression effect.

  In this state, when a high voltage (for example, 300 to 400 V) is applied to the electrode part 45a and the electrode part 45b at a predetermined frequency (for example, 80 to 210 kHz) by the high-voltage / oscillation circuit, the piezoelectric element 46 vibrates and the supplied water Mist is discharged from the front end surface 44F of the vibrating portion 44, and the mist that has passed through the spray port 49 increases the humidity in the vegetable compartment 37. Further, the mist that has not passed through the spray port 49 is classified, that is, returns to the water storage section 42 through the wall around the spray port 49 and is again subjected to atomization. The mist to be classified is a mist having a large particle diameter mainly generated from the tip of the vibrating portion 44 and other parts.

  Here, the specific operation principle of the sterilization unit 48 is as follows.

  When the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b having different ionization tendencies are immersed in water staying in the water storage section 42 provided in the atomizer 41, the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b A potential difference occurs between the two.

  At this time, when one end of the first electrode 48a and one end of the second electrode 48b are short-circuited by the short-circuit portion 48c provided above the water surface, the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b are charged, The first electrode 48a having a large ionization tendency becomes a-(minus) pole, and the second electrode 48b having a small ionization tendency becomes a + (plus) pole. Microorganisms are normally negatively charged in the electrolyte due to their cell tissue structure, and therefore move to the surface side of the second electrode 48b having a small ionization tendency.

  In addition, when the microorganisms move to the surface of the second electrode 48b and accumulate, the growth ability is lost due to the influence of metal ions eluted from the surface of the second electrode 48b. In addition, the cell wall of the microorganism is destroyed due to an electrical effect of losing charge on the surface of the second electrode 48b. Or, since microorganisms accumulate and the distance between the solids of each microorganism is extremely shortened, a normal growth environment cannot be formed, so that intake of oxygen and nutrients becomes insufficient or impossible, and microorganisms lose their ability to grow. Inactivate.

  As described above, in the first embodiment, hygienic mist is generated from the low-cost atomizing device 41 that has a simple configuration, does not use electric power, and has high safety and sustainability. It is.

  Moreover, by using the atomizer 41 to spray hygienic mist on the storage space (vegetable room 37) of the refrigerator 31, the space is maintained at high humidity and the freshness of the vegetables is maintained over a long period of time. can do.

  In the first embodiment, the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b of the sterilization unit 48 are perpendicular to the water surface WF of water stored at least partially in the water storage section 42. Since it arrange | positions so that it may provide a space | interval and it may oppose with respect to the water in the continuous water storage part 42, the proliferation suppression or disinfection effect of microorganisms can be exhibited.

  Moreover, in this Embodiment 1, since the sterilization unit 48 is arrange | positioned in the path | route between the supply part 47 and the atomization part 41a, it fully exhibits the sterilization effect until just before mist is sprayed. be able to.

  Furthermore, since the short circuit part 48c of the sterilization unit 48 is installed above the water surface WF of the water storage part 42, an electrical circuit can be surely provided by the first electrode 48a, the second electrode 48b, and the short circuit part 48c through water. Since it can comprise, the disinfection effect can fully be exhibited.

  Moreover, since the lower end of the electrode of the sterilization unit 48 is located below the atomization unit 41, water can be sterilized and then supplied to the atomization unit 41 a, so that hygienic mist can be stabilized. Can be supplied.

  And by making the space | interval of the 1st electrode and 2nd electrode of the microbe elimination unit 48 or less into 30 mm, the flow of the ionized ion by the difference in ionization tendency can be improved, and the microbe elimination effect is improved. Can do.

  Moreover, since it is the ultrasonic atomizer 41, a hygienic and fine mist can be sprayed in the storage space, and as a result, the storage space is easily maintained at a higher humidity.

  In the first embodiment, since the liquid is supplied to the vibrating unit 44 with surface tension and atomized, a consumable / deformable member such as a water absorbing material for supplying the liquid to the vibrating unit 44 is used. There is no need, and as a result, a stable atomization action can be obtained over a long period of time, and maintenance and inspection can be simplified without replacement of parts over a long period of time.

  Moreover, it becomes possible to spray a high-quality fine mist by the classification effect | action by the spraying nozzle 49, and it can also suppress that a store thing is damaged by adhesion of excess water.

  In the first embodiment, the water to be atomized is water condensed and collected by the water recovery unit 52. However, for example, water for ice making provided in a normal refrigerator is provided in the refrigerator 31. It is also possible to supply the ice making water supply tank from a path branched to the atomizing device 41. Alternatively, a dedicated tank for supplying the atomizing device 41 may be provided. Thereby, since water is sufficiently supplied, it is possible to atomize water to an appropriate amount at all times when necessary. Furthermore, it is also possible to use defrost water generated at the time of defrosting of the cooler 51 that constitutes the refrigeration cycle for cooling each storage chamber of the refrigerator 31.

  Whichever water supply method is used, the sterilization unit 48 incorporated in the atomization apparatus 41 can sufficiently sterilize the water to be atomized, and can suppress the spraying of mist containing microorganisms.

  In the first embodiment, the sterilization unit 48 is described as a unit composed of a different metal utilizing the difference in ionization tendency. However, as a unit having a sterilization effect, the configuration is somewhat complicated and a small amount of power is consumed. Although it becomes a required structure, it can also be set as the unit which sterilizes by producing electrolyzed water containing hypochlorous acid by carrying out electrolysis of water by energizing an electrode actively, for example.

  Moreover, it is also possible to set it as the unit which positively adds the zinc ion and silver ion which have a bactericidal effect to stored water.

  Furthermore, in this Embodiment 1, although it has set as the structure which can suppress that the short circuit part 48c contacts a liquid by providing the drain port 62 in the water storage part 42, the water level sensor for detecting the upper limit of a water level is used. The operation of the water supply pump may be controlled.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the atomizing device for a refrigerator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Here, the same components as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 6, the atomization device 41 is configured to include a water storage unit 42, an atomization unit 41 b, a supply unit 47, and a sterilization unit 48. The atomizing unit 41b is a Langevin type ultrasonic vibration device including a vibrating unit 44, an electrode unit (not shown), and a piezoelectric element (not shown) as in the first embodiment. A water supply material 60 that sucks up the water stored in 42 by capillary action and supplies the water to the front end surface 44F of the vibrating portion 44 is provided. The atomizing device 41 is installed so that the direction of the atomizing jet is substantially parallel to or slightly upward from the water surface WF stored in the water storage section 42.

  In other words, the atomizing device 41 according to the second embodiment is different in the method for supplying water to the vibration unit 44 described in the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, water is attached to the tip surface 44F by the water absorption action (water absorption by capillary action) of the water supply material 60 having water absorption. It is configured to adhere. Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  The sterilization unit 48, which is a component part of the atomization device 41, is also configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment, and in the water storage section 42, the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b having different ionization tendencies, for example, spacers or positioning As a configuration provided with a short-circuit portion 48c that is disposed opposite to each other with a gap by a portion or the like and that short-circuits the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b at a position above the water storage portion 42 that does not contact water. Yes.

  In the configuration of the second embodiment, in view of the water path, the sterilization unit 48 is provided between the supply unit 47 and the water supply material 60. Therefore, the condensed and recovered water is efficiently sterilized and removed. The sterilized water is supplied to the vibration unit 44 through the water supply material 60 and sprayed therefrom. Here, the water supply material 60 has a water absorption property utilizing a capillary phenomenon, such as a rod-shaped felt material, a porous material, or a thin tube.

  Even if the supply unit 47 is provided at a position away from the sterilization unit 48, water is stored in the water storage unit 42, and at least a part of the sterilization unit 48 (electrodes 48a and 48b) is immersed in the water. If so, the disinfection effect can be exerted. In particular, the disposition of the disinfection / microorganism growth suppression and the atomization device 41 can be performed immediately after the supply unit 47 and immediately before the vibration unit 44. It is also preferable from downsizing.

  Further, the spray port 49 through which the mist (mist) passes is provided in the direction in which the water atomized by the tip end surface 44F (the atomized surface) of the vibration unit 44 is jetted as in the first embodiment. The shape is rectangular. Such a shape simply acts as a wall for storing a predetermined amount of water, and unlike the first embodiment, it does not have a function of maintaining the height of the water surface WF at a predetermined height with high accuracy. It can be of any shape.

  About the refrigerator 31 which comprises the atomization apparatus 41 comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement is demonstrated below. This operation will be described with reference to FIG.

  Water vapor (moisture) in the vegetable compartment 37 is condensed on the cooling plate 53 and grows with time to form water droplets. And it dripped at the water collection | recovery cover 54 with dead weight, flows through the water collection | recovery cover 54, and is supplied to the water storage part 42 from the supply part 47. FIG. At this time, microorganisms that inhabit the water in the water reservoir 42 are physically removed by the sterilization unit 48. The sterilized water then travels through the water supply material 60 and adheres to the distal end surface 44F of the vibration unit 44. In the vibration unit 44, capillary waves are generated by the vibration of the vibration element, whereby water is atomized into particles of several μm to several tens of μm, and is sprayed from the spray port 49 as mist (mist).

  The above-described atomization will be described in detail. A high voltage (for example, 300 to 400 V) is applied to a predetermined frequency (for example, 80 k to 80 k) by a high-voltage / oscillation circuit (not shown) in a state where water is attached to the tip surface 44F of the vibration unit 44. When applied to the electrode portion at 210 kHz, the piezoelectric element (not shown) vibrates, and the water adhering to the front end surface 44F is atomized and discharged from the front end surface of the vibration unit 44, passing through the spray port 49. , Humidify the storage space.

  Further, when passing through the spray port 49, the mist having a large particle diameter or the mist scattered in a direction other than a predetermined (substantially forward) is blocked by the peripheral edge of the spray port 49 and is soaked in the vegetable compartment 37 by a so-called classification action. Is not injected but returned to the water storage section 42 and used again for atomization.

  In the above-described atomization action, water from which condensation has been collected is supplied to the water storage unit 42 from a supply unit 47 provided at the top of the atomization device 41, and the microorganisms in the liquid are physically removed by the sterilization unit 48. Is supplied to the vibrating portion 44 side, and the water supply material 60 can be solved by clogging of the water supply material 60 due to microorganisms and the like, which has been a problem in the past, and the life reduction and frequent replacement of the water supply material 60 due to this clogging. The service life of 60 can be extended and the replacement frequency can be reduced to simplify maintenance and inspection.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of an atomizer for a refrigerator according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Here, the same components as those in the first and second embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 7, the atomization device 41 is configured to include a water storage unit 42, a piezoelectric element 61 that is an atomization unit, a supply unit 47, and a sterilization unit 48. The atomizing unit uses a disk-type ultrasonic vibration device. The atomization device 41 is attached so that one surface thereof is directly or indirectly in contact with the bottom surface of the water storage section 42, and as a result, the direction of atomization is substantially perpendicular to the water surface WF of the water storage section 42. Become.

  The atomization device 41 using the Langevin type ultrasonic vibration device described in the second embodiment has a configuration in which the atomization direction is sprayed in a direction substantially parallel to the water surface WF of the water storage unit 42. In the atomization device 41 using the disk type ultrasonic vibration device 3, the atomization direction is once sprayed in a substantially vertical direction with respect to the water surface WF of the water storage unit 42. Other configurations are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 7, the sterilization unit 48 that is a component of the atomization device 41 is also configured in the same manner as in the first embodiment. In the water storage section 42, the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b having different ionization tendencies are For example, a short-circuit portion 48c that is disposed opposite to each other with a gap by a spacer, a positioning portion, etc., and that short-circuits the first electrode 48a and the second electrode 48b at a position above the water storage portion 42 that does not contact water. The configuration is provided.

  Also in the configuration of the third embodiment, in view of the water path, since the sterilization unit 48 is provided between the supply unit 47 and the atomization device 41, the supply unit 47 of the water recovery unit 52 is changed to the water storage unit 42. The condensed and recovered water is sterilized efficiently, and the sterilized water is misted by the operation of the atomizing device 41 installed on the bottom surface of the water storage unit 42. That is, the vibration of the piezoelectric element 61 is transmitted to the stored water, and the vibration forms a liquid column on the water surface WF. When the liquid column protrudes from the water surface WF, a part of the liquid column is micronized from several μm to several tens of μm. And sprayed as a mist into the storage chamber.

  Here, although the sterilization unit 48 is provided at a position away from the liquid supply unit 47, if at least a part of the electrodes 48a and 48b is immersed in the water stored in the water storage unit 42, the sterilization unit 48 is disposed. The effect can be demonstrated. The sterilization unit 48 is preferably disposed immediately after the supply unit 47 and immediately before the vibration unit 44 from the viewpoint of the sterilization / microorganism growth inhibitory effect and the compaction of the atomization device 41.

  Since the sterilization unit 48 is provided between the supply unit 47 and the atomization device 41 for the refrigerator 31 including the atomization device 41, the water collected and condensed from the water recovery unit 52 to the water storage unit 42 is efficient. Well sterilized (microbe growth suppression), the sterilized water forms a liquid column on the water surface WF by vibration transmission from one side of the atomizer 41 installed on the bottom surface of the water storage unit 42, the water surface When the liquid column protrudes from the WF, it becomes fine particles of several μm to several tens of μm and is sprayed into the vegetable compartment 37 as mist.

  Therefore, also in this Embodiment 3, the vegetable compartment 37 can be kept hygienic.

  As described above, since the atomizing device according to the present invention makes the water (liquid) to be sprayed hygienic, it can be implemented in a humidifying device in a sterilization room or a storage device such as a household or commercial refrigerator. Needless to say, the present invention can also be applied to uses such as low-temperature circulation for fresh foods such as vegetables, and further to medical devices and the like that maintain a storage chamber in a constant humidity environment such as an incubator.

The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the refrigerator in Embodiment 1 of this invention The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator in Embodiment 1 FIG. 2 A view of FIG. 2 in the first embodiment Sectional drawing by the BB line of FIG. 3 in Embodiment 1 C view of FIG. 3 in Embodiment 1 Sectional drawing of the atomization apparatus of the refrigerator in Embodiment 2 of this invention Sectional drawing of the atomization apparatus of the refrigerator in Embodiment 3 of this invention A longitudinal sectional view of a vegetable room of a refrigerator provided with an ultrasonic atomizing device showing a conventional example The expanded perspective view which shows the principal part of the ultrasonic atomizer which shows a prior art example The longitudinal cross-sectional view which shows the structure of the vegetable room periphery of the refrigerator which provided the ultrasonic atomizer which shows a prior art example Longitudinal sectional view of ultrasonic atomizer and cover showing conventional example

Explanation of symbols

31 Refrigerator 41 Atomizer 41a Atomizer 41b Atomizer 42 Water Reservoir 44 Vibrator 47 Supply Unit 48 Sanitization Unit 48a First Electrode 48b Second Electrode 48c Short-Circuit Portion 49 Spray Port (Drain Port)
62 Drainage port

Claims (6)

A water storage part for storing water, an atomization part for atomizing the water in the water storage part, a spray port that also serves to maintain the water level of the water storage part, and removal of bacteria in the water storage part or suppression of microbial growth. 1st electrode and 2nd electrode which comprise a microbe unit, are arrange | positioned in the position which mutually opposed and provided the space | interval, and the ionization tendency from which a part was immersed in the water in the said water storage part And a short-circuit part that short-circuits the first electrode and the second electrode, and the vibration part of the atomization part uses the surface tension action of the water stored in the water storage part. The surface tension formed by the first electrode and the second electrode of the sterilization unit affects the surface tension action at the vibration part of the atomization unit. So that the vibration part of the atomization part and the sterilization unit of the first Electrode and the second electrode are arranged with a predetermined interval, further, atomizer lower side of the spray nozzle was set to be lower than the short-circuit portion. The supply part which supplies water to the said water storage part is provided, The said disinfection unit is arrange | positioned between the said supply part and the said atomization part in the water path | route from the said supply part to the atomization part. Atomization equipment. The sterilization unit is provided below the supply part, the lower end of the electrode, atomizer according to claim 1 or 2 disposed on the lower side of the atomization unit. The atomization apparatus as described in any one of Claim 1 to 3 which made the space | interval of a said 1st electrode and a said 2nd electrode 30 mm or less. The atomization apparatus as described in any one of Claim 1 to 4 which used the ultrasonic vibration type for the said atomization part. 2. An opening / closing lid or door, comprising a box for storing and storing articles and the like, and an atomization device for supplying water into the box in an atomized state, wherein the atomization device comprises: storage apparatus and atomizing device according to any one of 5 from.