Ripening control device, air composition adjusting device, container, and freezer

Abstract

The ripening control device (60) includes a holding section (62), a separation section (63), and a supply section (65). The holding section (62) holds a ripening component (16) that is generated by the object (15) and ripens the object (15). The separation section (63) separates the ripening component (16) held by the holding section (62) from the holding section (62). The supply section (65) supplies the ripening component (16) separated by the separation section (63) to the object space (S).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a ripening control device, an air composition adjusting device, a container, and a freezer. BACKGROUND

[0002] In Patent Literature 1, there is disclosed an ethylene gas concentration control method that causes a filter to adsorb ethylene gas released from fruits in a storage, thereby maintaining a low-concentration ethylene gas environment, and on the other hand, opens an ethylene gas cylinder to introduce ethylene gas into the storage, so as to easily ripen fruits that have reached a shipment date.

[0003] PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS

[0004] PATENT LITERATURE

[0005] Patent Literature 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-262767 SUMMARY

[0006] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION

[0007] However, in the existing invention, an ethylene gas cylinder for introducing ethylene gas must be prepared separately, the device is thus upsized, and a setting space needs to be secured.

[0008] An object of the present disclosure is to be able to supply a ripening component to an object space with a relatively simple structure.

[0009] SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEMS

[0010] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a ripening control device that ripens an object 15 housed in an object space S, characterized by including: a holding portion 62 that holds a ripening component 16 generated by the object 15 and that ripens the object 15; a detachment portion 63 that detaches the ripening component 16 held by the holding portion 62 from the holding portion 62; and a supply portion 65 that supplies the ripening component 16 detached by the detachment portion 63 to the object space S.

[0011] In the first aspect, the ripening component 16 generated by the object 15 is held by the holding portion 62. The ripening component 16 is detached from the holding portion 62 by the detachment portion 63. The ripening component 16 detached by the detachment portion 63 is supplied to the object space S by the supply portion 65.

[0012] In this way, during a period in which freshness of the object 15 is intended to be maintained, the ripening component 16 generated by the object 15 is held by the holding portion 62, so that ripening of the object 15 can be suppressed.

[0013] On the other hand, when it is desired to ripen the object 15, the ripening agent 16 is detached from the holding part 62 and supplied to the object space S, thereby enabling the ripening agent 16 to be reused.

[0014] The second aspect of this disclosure, based on the first aspect, is characterized in that: the ripening control device includes a ripening control unit 70, which controls the operation of the detachment unit 63 and the supply unit 65; the object space S includes a first object space 101 and a second object space 102; the ripening control unit 70 executes a first mode in which the ripening component 16 is supplied to the first object space 101; the ripening component 16 is generated by the object 15 in the second object space 102 and is held in the holding unit 62.

[0015] In the second aspect, it is possible to recover the ripening agent 16 generated by the object 15 in the second object space 102 and supply the ripening agent 16 to the object 15 in the first object space 101.

[0016] The third aspect of this disclosure, based on the second aspect, is characterized in that: the ripening control unit 70 executes a second mode in which the ripening ingredient 16 is supplied to the second object space 102, the ripening ingredient 16 being generated by the object 15 in the first object space 101 and held in the holding unit 62.

[0017] In the third aspect, it is possible to recover the ripening agent 16 generated by the object 15 in the first object space 101 and supply the ripening agent 16 to the object 15 in the second object space 102.

[0018] The fourth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to third aspects, characterized in that: the ripening control device includes a discharge section 74, which discharges at least a portion of the ripening component 16 detached from the detachment section 63 to the outside of the object space S.

[0019] In the fourth aspect, at least a portion of the ripening agent 16 that has been separated from the detachment section 63 is discharged to the outside of the target space S using the discharge section 74.

[0020] In this way, the ripening agent 16 that cannot be completely held by the holding part 62 can be discharged to the outside of the object space S.

[0021] The fifth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to fourth aspects, characterized in that: the ripening control device includes a storage section 66, which stores at least a portion of the ripening component 16 that has been released from the release section 63.

[0022] In the fifth aspect, at least a portion of the ripening agent 16 that has been separated from the release section 63 is stored in the storage section 66.

[0023] In this way, ripening agent 16 that cannot be completely retained by holding part 62 can be stored in storage part 66.

[0024] The sixth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to fifth aspects, characterized in that: the retaining part 62 has a hollow fiber membrane 62a.

[0025] In the sixth aspect, by using a hollow fiber membrane 62a in the holding part 62, the ripening agent 16 can be retained efficiently.

[0026] The seventh aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to fifth aspects, characterized in that: the retaining part 62 has a metal-organic framework.

[0027] In the seventh aspect, by using a metal-organic framework in the retaining part 62, the ripening agent 16 can be retained efficiently.

[0028] The eighth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to seventh aspects, characterized in that: the holding part 62 is connected to the storage tank 66, the storage tank 66 storing air containing the ripening agent 16.

[0029] In the eighth aspect, air containing the ripening agent 16 held by the holding part 62 can be stored in the storage tank 66.

[0030] The ninth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to eighth aspects, characterized in that: the detachment portion 63 has a heating portion 64, which heats the holding portion 62.

[0031] In the ninth aspect, the detachment section 63 has a heating section 64. In this way, the holding section 62 can be heated, causing the ripening agent 16 held in the holding section 62 to detach.

[0032] The tenth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to ninth aspects, characterized in that: the detachment portion 63 has a pressurizing portion 65, which pressurizes the holding portion 62.

[0033] In the tenth aspect, the detachment section 63 has a pressurizing section 65. In this way, the holding section 62 can be pressurized, causing the ripening agent 16 held in the holding section 62 to detach.

[0034] The eleventh aspect of this disclosure, based on any one of the first to tenth aspects, is characterized in that: the ripening control device includes a measuring unit 86, which measures the concentration of the ripening component 16 in the object space S.

[0035] In the eleventh aspect, the concentration of ripening agent 16 in object space S can be measured by measuring unit 86, thereby managing the ripening state of object 15.

[0036] The twelfth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to eleventh aspects, characterized in that: the ripening control device includes an adjustment unit 80, which adjusts the concentration of the ripening component 16 in the object space S.

[0037] In the twelfth aspect, the concentration of ripening agent 16 in the object space S can be adjusted by adjusting the adjustment unit 80, thereby managing the ripening state of the object 15.

[0038] The thirteenth aspect of this disclosure, based on any one of the first to twelfth aspects, is characterized in that: the regulating unit 80 includes at least one of a heating unit 64, a pressurizing unit 65, a regulating valve 85, a switching unit 92, and a switching valve 95; the heating unit 64 regulates the heating amount on the holding unit 62; the pressurizing unit 65 regulates the pressurizing amount on the holding unit 62; the regulating valve 85 regulates the flow rate of air released from the holding unit 62 to the object space S; the switching unit 92 regulates the opening degree of the discharge port 91; the discharge port 91 connects the storage tank 66 storing the ripening agent 16 to the outside; and the switching valve 95 connects any one of a plurality of discharge passages 96, 97, and 98 to the storage tank 66, wherein the diameters of the plurality of discharge passages 96, 97, and 98 are different and all of the plurality of discharge passages 96, 97, and 98 are connected to the outside.

[0039] In the thirteenth aspect, at least one of the heating unit 64, the pressurizing unit 65, the regulating valve 85, the switching unit 92, and the switching valve 95 can be used to adjust the concentration of the ripening component 16 in the object space S, thereby managing the ripening state of the object 15.

[0040] The fourteenth aspect of this disclosure is based on any one of the first to thirteenth aspects, characterized in that: the ripening control device includes: a detection unit 87 that detects the state of the object 15; and a ripening control unit 70 that controls the operation of the detachment unit 63 according to the detection result of the detection unit 87.

[0041] In the fourteenth aspect, the state of the object 15 is detected by the detection unit 87. Based on the detection results, the ripening control unit 70 controls the operation of the detachment unit 63.

[0042] In this way, the concentration of ripening agent 16 supplied to object space S can be increased or decreased according to the maturity state of object 15.

[0043] The fifteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to an air composition regulating device, characterized in that: the air composition regulating device includes: a ripening control device 60 as described in any one of the first to fourteenth aspects; and an air composition regulating unit 30, which introduces air with a composition different from that of the external air into the target space S.

[0044] In the fifteenth aspect, in an air composition regulating device including a ripening control device 60 and an air composition regulating unit 30, the ripening state of the object 15 can be managed by adjusting the concentration of the ripening component 16 and the air composition in the object space S.

[0045] The sixteenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a container, characterized in that: the container includes: a ripening control device 60 as described in any one of the first to fourteenth aspects; and a container body 2 having the object space S inside.

[0046] In the sixteenth aspect, the ripening state of the object 15 stored inside the container body 2 can be managed within the container including the ripening control device 60 and the container body 2.

[0047] The seventeenth aspect of this disclosure relates to a cold storage facility, characterized in that: the cold storage facility includes: a ripening control device 60 as described in any one of the first to fourteenth aspects; and a refrigeration device 10 for cooling the object space S.

[0048] In the seventeenth aspect, in a freezer including a ripening control device 60 and a refrigeration device 10, the ripening state of the object 15 stored inside the freezer can be managed. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Figure 1 This is a side sectional view showing a simplified structure of a container including the ripening control device according to this embodiment;

[0050] Figure 2 This is a piping system diagram showing the refrigerant circuit of a refrigeration unit;

[0051] Figure 3 This is a piping system diagram showing the air circuit of the air composition regulating device, which shows the air flow in the first connection state;

[0052] Figure 4This is a piping system diagram showing the air circuit of the air composition regulating device, which shows the air flow in the second connection state;

[0053] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the ripening control device;

[0054] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the ripening control device involved in this modified example 1;

[0055] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the ripening control device involved in this modified example 2;

[0056] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing a simplified structure of the ripening control device involved in this variation 3;

[0057] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the first mode of the ripening control device involved in this variation 4;

[0058] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates the second mode of the ripening control device. Detailed Implementation

[0059] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] <container>

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown, container 1 includes a container body 2, a refrigeration unit 10, an air composition conditioning unit 50 (CA unit: Controlled Atmosphere System), and a ripening control unit 60. Container 1 is used for maritime transportation, etc.

[0062] The refrigeration unit 10 cools the air in the internal space S (object space) of the container body 2. The air composition regulating device 50 introduces air with a composition different from the outside air into the internal space S. The ripening control device 60 controls the ripening state of the plants 15 (objects) stored in the internal space S.

[0063] Plants 15, as fresh produce, are stored in a boxed state within the container body 2. Plants 15 include, for example, fruits and vegetables such as bananas and avocados, vegetables, grains, bulbs, and flowers. Plants 15 respire, absorbing oxygen (O2) from the air and releasing carbon dioxide (CO2). Plants 15 produce gases containing ripening agents 16. Ripening agent 16 is, for example, ethylene. Ripening agent 16 promotes the ripening of plants 15.

[0064] <Refrigeration equipment>

[0065] The refrigeration unit 10 includes a refrigeration housing 12, a refrigerant circuit 20 for refrigeration cycle, and a refrigeration control unit 100 (see reference). Figure 2 ).

[0066] The container body 2 is shaped like a slender cuboid box with an open end. The refrigeration housing 12 is installed around the opening of the container body 2 in a manner that blocks the open end of the container body 2.

[0067] The lower part of the refrigeration housing 12 bulges outward toward the inside of the container body 2. As a result, a first storage space S1 is formed at the lower part of the refrigeration housing 12, which is located on the outside of the container body 2.

[0068] The first storage space S1 houses a compressor 21, a condenser 22, an air composition regulator 50, and an external fan 25. The condenser 22 is positioned in the central part of the first storage space S1 in the vertical direction. The compressor 21 and the air composition regulator 50 are located below the condenser 22. The external fan 25 is located above the condenser 22.

[0069] A second storage space S2 is formed in the upper part of the refrigeration housing 12, located inside the container body 2. An evaporator 24 and an internal fan 26 are housed in the second storage space S2. The internal fan 26 is positioned above the evaporator 24.

[0070] A partition 18 is arranged inside the container body 2. The partition 18 is arranged to face the inside of the refrigeration shell 12. The partition 18 divides the container body 2 into an internal space S for storing plants 15 and a second storage space S2.

[0071] An intake port 18a is formed between the upper end of the partition 18 and the top surface inside the container body 2. Air inside the container body 2 is drawn into the second storage space S2 through the intake port 18a.

[0072] An air outlet 18b is formed between the lower end of the partition 18 and the bottom surface inside the container body 2. The air outlet 18b blows air cooled by the refrigeration unit 10 into the container body 2.

[0073] <Operating status of the refrigeration unit>

[0074] like Figure 2 As shown, the refrigerant circuit 20 is a closed loop formed by connecting the compressor 21, condenser 22, expansion valve 23, and evaporator 24 sequentially through the refrigerant pipe 20a. The refrigerant circulates in the refrigerant circuit 20, thus performing a vapor compression refrigeration cycle.

[0075] The refrigeration control unit 100 controls the operation of the compressor 21, expansion valve 23, external fan 25, and internal fan 26. The refrigeration control unit 100 performs a cooling operation, during which the air inside the container body 2 is cooled.

[0076] The external fan 25 delivers air (outside air) from the space outside the container body 2 to the condenser 22. In the condenser 22, heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant flowing inside the condenser 22 after being compressed by the compressor 21 and the outside air delivered to the condenser 22 by the external fan 25.

[0077] The in-container fan 26 draws in air from inside the container body 2 through the suction port 18a and blows it toward the evaporator 24. In the evaporator 24, heat exchange occurs between the refrigerant flowing inside the evaporator 24 after being depressurized by the expansion valve 23 and the in-container air delivered to the evaporator 24 by the in-container fan 26, thereby cooling the air inside the container.

[0078] The air inside the container, cooled in the evaporator 24, is blown back into the container body 2 through the outlet 18b. In this way, the air inside the container body 2 is cooled.

[0079] <Air composition regulating device>

[0080] like Figure 3 As shown, the air composition regulating device 50 includes a gas supply unit 30 (air composition regulating unit) and an air composition control unit 40. The air composition regulating device 50 regulates the oxygen concentration and carbon dioxide concentration of the air inside the container body 2. It should be noted that the term "concentration" used in the following description refers to "volume concentration".

[0081] The gas supply unit 30 is a unit used to generate air with adjusted composition. In this embodiment, the gas supply unit 30 generates nitrogen-rich air with a low oxygen concentration for supplying to the interior space S of the container body 2. The gas supply unit 30 is composed of a VPSA (Vacuum Pressure Swing Adsorption) device.

[0082] The gas supply unit 30 includes an air pump 31, a first directional control valve 32, a second directional control valve 33, and an air circuit 3. A first adsorption cylinder 34 and a second adsorption cylinder 35 are connected in the air circuit 3. Inside the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35, an adsorbent for adsorbing nitrogen components in the air is disposed. The components of the air circuit 3 are housed in the unit housing 36.

[0083] The air pump 31 has a first pump mechanism 31a and a second pump mechanism 31b. The first pump mechanism 31a constitutes a pressurizing pump mechanism, which pressurizes the intake air and then ejects it. The second pump mechanism 31b constitutes a depressurizing pump mechanism. The first pump mechanism 31a and the second pump mechanism 31b are connected to the drive shaft of the motor 31c.

[0084] Air circuit 3 includes components such as air pump 31. Air circuit 3 includes external air passage 41, pressurization passage 42, depressurization passage 43, supply passage 44, and oxygen exhaust passage 45.

[0085] An external air passage 41 penetrates the unit housing 36, thus connecting the interior of the unit housing 36 with the outside. One end of the external air passage 41 is connected to the suction port of the first pump mechanism 31a. A membrane filter 37 is provided at the other end of the external air passage 41.

[0086] One end of a pressurization passage 42 is connected to the nozzle of the first pump mechanism 31a. The other end of the pressurization passage 42 branches into two, which are respectively connected to the first directional control valve 32 and the second directional control valve 33.

[0087] One end of a pressure-reducing passage 43 is connected to the suction port of the second pump mechanism 31b. The other end of the pressure-reducing passage 43 branches into two, which are respectively connected to the first directional control valve 32 and the second directional control valve 33. One end of a supply passage 44 is connected to the discharge port of the second pump mechanism 31b. The other end of the supply passage 44 opens toward the second storage space S2 of the container body 2. A check valve 55 is provided at the other end of the supply passage 44. The check valve 55 allows air to flow into the second storage space S2 and prevents air backflow.

[0088] Two exhaust fans 49 are installed on the side of the air pump 31. The exhaust fans 49 cool the air pump 31 by blowing air towards it.

[0089] The pressurized pump mechanism, namely the first pump mechanism 31a, performs adsorption by supplying pressurized air to one of the adsorption cylinders, the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35. In this adsorption process, the nitrogen component in the pressurized air is adsorbed onto the adsorbent in the adsorption cylinder.

[0090] The pressure reducing pump mechanism, namely the second pump mechanism 31b, performs a desorption operation by drawing air from another adsorption cylinder among the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35. During this desorption operation, the nitrogen component adsorbed on the adsorbent in the adsorption cylinder is desorbed. Nitrogen-rich air is generated through this desorption operation.

[0091] In the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35, adsorption and desorption actions are performed alternately. The supply passage 44 is a passage that supplies the nitrogen-rich air generated during the desorption action to the interior of the container body 2.

[0092] One end of an oxygen exhaust passage 45 is connected to the other end of the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35 (the outlet when pressurized). The oxygen exhaust passage 45 leads the oxygen-enriched air generated by the pressurized external air to the outside of the container body 2.

[0093] One end of the oxygen discharge passage 45 branches into two, connecting to the other ends of the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35, respectively. The other end of the oxygen discharge passage 45 opens towards the outside of the gas supply unit 30, i.e., the outside of the container body 2. Check valves 51 are respectively provided at the branch where the oxygen discharge passage 45 connects to the first adsorption cylinder 34 and at the branch where the oxygen discharge passage 45 connects to the second adsorption cylinder 35. The check valves 51 prevent air from flowing back from the oxygen discharge passage 45 towards the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35.

[0094] A throttling orifice 53 is provided midway through the oxygen discharge passage 45. The throttling orifice 53 reduces the pressure of the oxygen-enriched air that has flowed out of the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35 before discharging it outside the chamber. The oxygen discharge passage 45 is the passage through which the oxygen-enriched air generated in the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35 is discharged outside the chamber.

[0095] A first directional control valve 32 is arranged between the air pump 31 and the first adsorption cylinder 34, and a second directional control valve 33 is arranged between the air pump 31 and the second adsorption cylinder 35. The first directional control valve 32 and the second directional control valve 33 switch the connection state between the air pump 31 and the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35 to two connection states (first connection state or second connection state) described later. The switching action of the first directional control valve 32 and the second directional control valve 33 is controlled by the air composition control unit 40.

[0096] The first directional control valve 32 is connected to the pressurization passage 42, the depressurization passage 43, and one end of the first adsorption cylinder 34. The pressurization passage 42 is connected to the outlet of the first pump mechanism 31a. The depressurization passage 43 is connected to the inlet of the second pump mechanism 31b. One end of the first adsorption cylinder 34 is the inlet during pressurization.

[0097] The first directional control valve 32 is in the first state ( Figure 4 The state shown) and the second state ( Figure 5The system switches between the states shown. In the first state, the first adsorption cylinder 34 is connected to the outlet of the first pump mechanism 31a, and the first adsorption cylinder 34 is disconnected from the inlet of the second pump mechanism 31b. In the second state, the first adsorption cylinder 34 is connected to the inlet of the second pump mechanism 31b, and the first adsorption cylinder 34 is disconnected from the outlet of the first pump mechanism 31a.

[0098] The second directional control valve 33 is connected to the pressurization passage 42, the depressurization passage 43, and one end of the second adsorption cylinder 35.

[0099] The second directional control valve 33 is in the first state ( Figure 3 The state shown) and the second state ( Figure 4 The system switches between the states shown. In the first state, the second adsorption cylinder 35 is connected to the suction port of the second pump mechanism 31b, and the second adsorption cylinder 35 is disconnected from the discharge port of the first pump mechanism 31a. In the second state, the second adsorption cylinder 35 is connected to the discharge port of the first pump mechanism 31a, and the second adsorption cylinder 35 is disconnected from the suction port of the second pump mechanism 31b.

[0100] The air composition control unit 40 performs control over the concentration adjustment operation, in which the oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations of the air inside the container body 2 are adjusted to the desired concentrations. Specifically, the air composition control unit 40 controls the operation of the gas supply unit 30 based on the measurement results of oxygen and carbon dioxide sensors (not shown) to make the composition (oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations) of the air inside the container body 2 reach the desired composition (e.g., 5% oxygen concentration and 5% carbon dioxide concentration).

[0101] The air composition control unit 40 includes, for example, a microcomputer and a storage medium. The microcomputer controls various elements of the air composition regulating device 50, and the storage medium can be a memory, disk, or the like that storing an executable control program. The detailed structure and algorithm of the air composition control unit 40 can be any combination of hardware and software.

[0102] <Operating status of the air composition regulating device>

[0103] If both the first directional control valve 32 and the second directional control valve 33 are set to the first state, then the air circuit 3 switches to the first connection state (refer to...). Figure 3 In the first connected state, the nozzle of the first pump mechanism 31a is connected to the first adsorption cylinder 34, and the suction port of the second pump mechanism 31b is connected to the second adsorption cylinder 35. In the first connected state, the adsorption action of adsorbing nitrogen components in the external air is carried out in the first adsorption cylinder 34, and the desorption action of desorbing the nitrogen components adsorbed in the adsorbent is carried out in the second adsorption cylinder 35.

[0104] If both the first directional control valve 32 and the second directional control valve 33 are set to the second state, then the air circuit 3 switches to the second connection state (refer to...). Figure 4 In the second connection state, the nozzle of the first pump mechanism 31a is connected to the second adsorption cylinder 35, and the suction port of the second pump mechanism 31b is connected to the first adsorption cylinder 34. In the second connection state, adsorption occurs in the second adsorption cylinder 35, and desorption occurs in the first adsorption cylinder 34.

[0105] In the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35, if pressurized outside air is supplied from the air pump 31 to pressurize the interior of the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35, the nitrogen component in the outside air will be adsorbed into the adsorbent. As a result, oxygen-enriched air with a lower nitrogen content than that in the outside air is generated. Compared with the outside air, the oxygen-enriched air has a lower nitrogen concentration and a higher oxygen concentration. The oxygen-enriched air is discharged out of the chamber through the oxygen exhaust passage 45.

[0106] On the other hand, in the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35, if the air inside the first adsorption cylinder 34 and the second adsorption cylinder 35 is drawn away by the air pump 31 to reduce the pressure, the nitrogen component adsorbed in the adsorbent will be desorbed. As a result, nitrogen-rich air containing more nitrogen than the nitrogen component in the outside air is generated. Compared with the outside air, the nitrogen-rich air has a high nitrogen concentration and a low oxygen concentration. In this embodiment, for example, nitrogen-rich air with a nitrogen concentration of 92% and an oxygen concentration of 8% is generated. The nitrogen-rich air is drawn into the second pump mechanism 31b and, after being pressurized, is ejected into the supply passage 44.

[0107] In the internal space S of the container body 2, the oxygen concentration of the air inside the container body 2 decreases due to the respiration of the plants 15, and will soon reach the target oxygen concentration of 5%.

[0108] <Ripe-enhancing control device>

[0109] like Figure 1 As shown, the ripening control device 60 is a device for controlling the ripening state of the plant 15 stored in the box space S. The ripening control device 60 includes an adsorption section 62 (holding section), a detachment section 63, a pressure-reducing device 65 (supply section), a storage tank 66 (storage section), and a ripening control section 70.

[0110] A unit housing 61 is provided on the top surface inside the container body 2. The components of the ripening control device 60 are housed in the unit housing 61.

[0111] The downstream end of the suction passage 71 is connected to the adsorption section 62. The upstream end of the suction passage 71 penetrates the unit housing 61 and opens toward the internal space S. The upstream end of the release passage 72 is connected to the adsorption section 62. The downstream end of the release passage 72 penetrates the unit housing 61 and opens toward the internal space S.

[0112] The adsorption unit 62 has a hollow fiber membrane 62a and an adsorption cylinder 62b. The hollow fiber membrane 62a is arranged inside the adsorption cylinder 62b. The hollow fiber membrane 62a adsorbs ripening agent 16 produced by the plant 15 and used to ripen the plant 15. The ripening agent 16 is, for example, ethylene. It should be noted that a metal organic framework (MOF) can also be used instead of a hollow fiber membrane 62a.

[0113] The detachment section 63 includes a heater 64 (heating section). The heater 64 is arranged along the outer surface of the adsorption cylinder 62b. The heater 64 detaches the ripening agent 16 adsorbed on the hollow fiber membrane 62a by heating the hollow fiber membrane 62a. The amount of ripening agent 16 detached increases by increasing the heating intensity of the heater 64.

[0114] The pressure-reducing device 65 is connected to the suction passage 71. The pressure-reducing device 65 is an air supply device that sends air from inside the container into the adsorption section 62. The pressure-reducing device 65 circulates the air inside the container between the ripening control device 60 and the internal space S of the container body 2 via the suction passage 71 and the release passage 72.

[0115] It should be noted that the pressure-reducing device 65 can also pressurize the hollow fiber membrane 62a by increasing the airflow to the adsorption section 62. If the hollow fiber membrane 62a is pressurized, the ripening agent 16 adsorbed on it will detach. That is, the pressure-reducing device 65 also functions as a detachment section 63 to detach the ripening agent 16 adsorbed in the adsorption section 62. The amount of ripening agent 16 detached increases by increasing the pressure applied by the pressure-reducing device 65.

[0116] In the release passage 72, a first switching valve 81 and a regulating valve 85 are connected sequentially from the upstream side. The regulating valve 85 regulates the flow rate of air released from the release passage 72 by adjusting the valve opening.

[0117] The upstream end of the bypass passage 73 is connected to the adsorption section 62. The upstream end of the bypass passage 73 is connected to the axial middle part of the adsorption cylinder 62b. The downstream end of the bypass passage 73 is connected to the portion of the release passage 72 located between the first switching valve 81 and the regulating valve 85.

[0118] In the bypass passage 73, a second switching valve 82, a storage tank 66, and a third switching valve 83 are connected sequentially from the upstream side. The storage tank 66 stores the ripening agent 16 that has separated from the adsorption section 62.

[0119] The upstream end of the discharge passage 74 is connected to the storage tank 66. The downstream end of the discharge passage 74 opens towards the outside of the container body 2. A fourth switching valve 84 is connected in the discharge passage 74.

[0120] The ripening control unit 70 performs control over the concentration adjustment operation, in which the concentration of the ripening component 16 in the chamber space S is adjusted to the desired concentration.

[0121] The ripening control unit 70 includes, for example, a microcomputer and a storage medium. The microcomputer controls various elements of the ripening control device 60, and the storage medium can be a memory, disk, or the like that storing an executable control program. The detailed structure and algorithm of the ripening control unit 70 can be any combination of hardware and software.

[0122] A measuring unit 86 and a detection unit 87 are connected to the ripening control unit 70. The measuring unit 86 and the detection unit 87 are arranged in the internal space S of the container body 2.

[0123] The measuring unit 86 measures the concentration of the ripening agent 16 in the chamber space S. The measuring unit 86 is, for example, a semiconductor sensor for detecting ethylene. Information indicating the concentration of the ripening agent 16 measured by the measuring unit 86 is sent to the ripening control unit 70.

[0124] The detection unit 87 detects the state of the plant 15. The detection unit 87 is, for example, a camera that captures images of the plant 15. Information indicating the state of the plant 15 detected by the detection unit 87 is sent to the ripening control unit 70.

[0125] The ripening control unit 70 controls the operation of the pressure increasing / depressurizing device 65, the disengagement unit 63, the regulating valve 85, the first switching valve 81, the second switching valve 82, the third switching valve 83, and the fourth switching valve 84 based on the measurement results of the measuring unit 86 and the detection results of the detection unit 87.

[0126] For example, during the transportation of container 1 to its destination, during the storage period when it is desired to maintain the freshness of the plant 15, the ripening control unit 70 performs adsorption operation, in which the concentration of ripening component 16 in the container space S is reduced.

[0127] Specifically, by driving the pressure-reducing device 65, air from inside the chamber is introduced into the adsorption unit 62, causing the ripening agent 16 contained in the air to be adsorbed onto the hollow fiber membrane 62a. The air, now free of the ripening agent 16, is then released back into the chamber space S. As described above, by circulating the air between the chamber space S and the adsorption unit 62, the concentration of the ripening agent 16 in the chamber space S can be reduced.

[0128] Before container 1 arrives at its destination, at the time when the plant 15 is to mature, the ripening control unit 70 performs ripening operation, during which the concentration of ripening ingredient 16 in the container space S is increased.

[0129] Specifically, the ripening agent 16 adsorbed on the hollow fiber membrane 62a is detached by heating the adsorption section 62 with heater 64. It should be noted that the ripening agent 16 adsorbed on the hollow fiber membrane 62a can also be detached by increasing the airflow of the pressure-reducing device 65. The detached ripening agent 16 is stored in storage tank 66. The ripening agent 16 stored in storage tank 66 is released into the chamber space S through release passage 72. In this way, the ripening agent 16 produced by the plant 15 can be reused to increase the concentration of the ripening agent 16 in the chamber space S.

[0130] <Operating status of the ripening control device>

[0131] like Figure 5 As shown, in step ST11, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether a ripening operation is being performed to supply the ripening agent 16 to the internal space S of the chamber. If the determination in step ST11 is "yes", the process moves to step ST24. If the determination in step ST11 is "no", the process moves to step ST12.

[0132] In step ST12, the ripening control unit 70 controls the pressure-reducing device 65 to perform adsorption operation of the adsorption unit 62 to adsorb the ripening component 16. During adsorption operation, the ripening control unit 70 opens the first switching valve 81 and closes the second switching valve 82, the third switching valve 83, and the fourth switching valve 84. The ripening control unit 70 drives the pressure-reducing device 65 and adjusts the valve opening of the regulating valve 85.

[0133] The air drawn into the chamber through the intake passage 71 contains a ripening agent 16. The ripening agent 16 is adsorbed by the hollow fiber membrane 62a of the adsorption section 62. The air after the ripening agent 16 has been adsorbed is released into the chamber space S through the release passage 72.

[0134] In step ST13, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether the concentration of the ripening agent 16 in the chamber space S is less than a predetermined lower limit. If the determination in step ST13 is "yes", the process moves to step ST22. If the determination in step ST13 is "no", the process moves to step ST14.

[0135] In step ST14, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether the ripening component 16 adsorbed in the adsorption unit 62 exceeds a predetermined upper limit. The upper limit is set based on the amount of ripening component 16 that the adsorption unit 62 can adsorb. If the determination in step ST14 is "yes", the process moves to step ST15. If the determination in step ST14 is "no", step ST14 is repeated.

[0136] In step ST15, the ripening control unit 70 controls the detachment unit 63 to perform a detachment operation that detaches a portion of the ripening component 16 adsorbed by the adsorption unit 62. During the detachment operation, the ripening control unit 70 opens the second switching valve 82 and closes the first switching valve 81, the third switching valve 83, and the fourth switching valve 84. The ripening control unit 70 also energizes the heater 64 to heat it.

[0137] The ripening agent 16 adsorbed in the adsorption section 62 is removed from the adsorption section 62 by heating by the heater 64. The removed ripening agent 16 is stored in the storage tank 66 through the bypass passage 73.

[0138] In step ST16, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether the amount of ripening agent 16 stored in the storage tank 66 exceeds a predetermined upper limit. The upper limit is set based on the amount of ripening agent 16 that the storage tank 66 can store. If the determination in step ST16 is "yes", the process moves to step ST17. If the determination in step ST16 is "no", the process moves to step ST18.

[0139] In step ST17, the ripening control unit 70 performs a discharge operation to release the ripening agent 16 from the storage tank 66 to the outside of the container 1. During the discharge operation, the ripening control unit 70 opens the fourth switch valve 84. A portion of the ripening agent 16 stored in the storage tank 66 is discharged to the outside of the container 1 through the discharge passage 74. After a certain amount of ripening agent 16 is discharged from the storage tank 66, the ripening control unit 70 closes the fourth switch valve 84.

[0140] In step ST18, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether the ripening component 16 adsorbed in the adsorption unit 62 exceeds a predetermined upper limit. If the determination in step ST18 is "yes", the process moves to step ST15. If the determination in step ST18 is "no", the process moves to step ST12.

[0141] In step ST19, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether the storage amount of ripening agent 16 in storage tank 66 exceeds a predetermined upper limit. If the determination in step ST19 is "yes", the process moves to step ST20. If the determination in step ST19 is "no", the process moves to step ST21.

[0142] In step ST20, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether the concentration of the ripening agent 16 in the chamber space S is less than a predetermined lower limit. If the determination in step ST20 is "yes", the process moves to step ST22. If the determination in step ST20 is "no", the process moves to step ST19.

[0143] In step ST21, the ripening control unit 70 de-energizes the heater 64, thereby stopping the disconnection operation. The ripening control unit 70 also closes the fourth switching valve 84, thereby stopping the discharge operation. After step ST21, the process returns to step ST12.

[0144] In step ST22, the ripening control unit 70 stops the operation of the pressure-reducing device 65, thereby stopping the adsorption operation. The ripening control unit 70 de-energizes the heater 64, thereby stopping the disengagement operation. The ripening control unit 70 closes the fourth switching valve 84, thereby stopping the discharge operation.

[0145] In step ST23, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether a ripening start command has been output. For example, if the container 1 is about to arrive at its destination and it is time to allow the plant 15 to mature, the user outputs a ripening start command by performing a ripening start operation. It should be noted that the time and date of outputting the ripening start command can also be pre-input into the ripening control unit 70.

[0146] If the judgment in step ST23 is "yes", proceed to step ST24. If the judgment in step ST23 is "no", repeat step ST23.

[0147] In step ST24, the ripening control unit 70 performs ripening operation to supply ripening component 16 to the internal space S of the container. During ripening operation, the ripening control unit 70 opens the second switching valve 82 and the third switching valve 83. The ripening control unit 70 drives the pressure relief device 65 and adjusts the valve opening of the regulating valve 85. As a result, the ripening component 16 stored in the storage tank 66 is released into the internal space S of the container through the bypass passage 73 and the release passage 72.

[0148] It should be noted that when the adsorption section 62 adsorbs the ripening agent 16, the heater 64 can be heated and the first switch valve 81 can be opened, so that the ripening agent 16 detached from the adsorption section 62 can be released into the chamber space S through the release passage 72.

[0149] In step ST25, the ripening control unit 70 determines whether the ripening of the plant 15 has ended. Specifically, it determines the maturity status of the plant 15 based on the detection results of the detection unit 87. During the ripening operation, the maturity status can also be estimated based on the amount of ripening component 16 supplied to the chamber space S and the ripening time.

[0150] If the judgment in step ST25 is "yes", proceed to step ST26. If the judgment in step ST25 is "no", repeat step ST25. At this time, in order to promote the maturation of plant 15, controls such as increasing the valve opening of regulating valve 85 and increasing the heating temperature of heater 64 can be implemented.

[0151] In step ST26, the ripening control unit 70 closes the second switching valve 82 and the third switching valve 83, causing the pressure relief device 65 to stop operating, thereby stopping the ripening process. This concludes the processing within the ripening control device 60.

[0152] It should be noted that when the ripening control device 60 is used to adjust the concentration of ripening ingredient 16, if the air composition is adjusted by the air composition adjustment device 50 to control the respiration of plant 15, the amount of ripening ingredient 16 produced by plant 15 can be adjusted, thereby managing the ripening state of plant 15.

[0153] -Effects of the implementation method-

[0154] According to the features of this embodiment, the adsorption section 62 adsorbs the ripening agent 16 generated by the target object 15. The detachment section 63 detaches the ripening agent 16 from the adsorption section 62. The supply section 65 supplies the ripening agent 16 detached from the detachment section 63 to the target space S.

[0155] In this way, during the period when it is desired to maintain the freshness of the object 15, the adsorption part 62 adsorbs the ripening component 16 produced by the object 15, thereby inhibiting the ripening of the object 15.

[0156] On the other hand, when it is time to allow the object 15 to mature, the ripening agent 16 is removed from the adsorption section 62 and supplied to the object space S, thereby enabling the ripening agent 16 to be reused.

[0157] According to the features of this embodiment, at least a portion of the ripening agent 16 that has been separated from the detachment section 63 is discharged to the outside of the target space S using the discharge section 74.

[0158] In this way, the ripening agent 16 that cannot be completely adsorbed by the adsorption section 62 can be discharged to the outside of the target space S.

[0159] According to the features of this embodiment, at least a portion of the ripening agent 16 that has been separated from the release section 63 is stored in the storage section 66.

[0160] In this way, ripening agent 16 that cannot be completely adsorbed by adsorption section 62 can be stored in storage section 66.

[0161] According to the features of this embodiment, by using a hollow fiber membrane 62a in the adsorption section 62, the ripening agent 16 can be adsorbed efficiently.

[0162] According to the features of this embodiment, by using a metal-organic framework in the adsorption section 62, the ripening agent 16 can be adsorbed efficiently.

[0163] According to the features of this embodiment, the detachment section 63 has a heating section 64. In this way, the adsorption section 62 can be heated, causing the ripening agent 16 adsorbed in the adsorption section 62 to detach.

[0164] According to the features of this embodiment, the detachment section 63 has a pressurization section 65. In this way, the adsorption section 62 can be pressurized, causing the ripening agent 16 adsorbed in the adsorption section 62 to detach.

[0165] According to the features of this embodiment, the concentration of ripening agent 16 in the object space S can be measured by the measuring unit 86, thereby managing the ripening state of the object 15.

[0166] According to the features of this embodiment, the concentration of ripening agent 16 in the target space S can be adjusted by adjusting unit 85, thereby managing the ripening state of target object 15.

[0167] According to the features of this embodiment, the state of the object 15 is detected by the detection unit 87. Based on the detection results, the ripening control unit 70 controls the operation of the detachment unit 63.

[0168] In this way, the concentration of ripening agent 16 supplied to object space S can be increased or decreased according to the maturity state of object 15.

[0169] According to the features of this embodiment, in the air composition regulating device including the ripening control device 60 and the air composition regulating unit 30, the ripening state of the object 15 can be managed by adjusting the concentration of the ripening component 16 and the air composition in the object space S.

[0170] According to the features of this embodiment, in a container including a ripening control device 60 and a container body 2, the ripening state of the object 15 stored inside the container body 2 can be managed.

[0171] According to the features of this embodiment, in a freezer including a ripening control device 60 and a refrigeration device 10, the ripening status of the object 15 stored inside the freezer can be managed.

[0172] - Variation Example 1 -

[0173] like Figure 6 As shown, the upstream end of the discharge passage 74 is connected to the storage tank 66. A discharge box 90 is connected to the downstream end of the discharge passage 74. Air flowing through the discharge passage 74 enters the discharge box 90. The discharge box 90 is located outside the container body 2.

[0174] A discharge port 91 is formed on the discharge box 90. The discharge port 91 has a switch door 92. The switch door 92 is movable between an open position where the discharge port 91 is open and a closed position where the discharge port 91 is closed. The switch door 92 regulates the amount of ripening agent 16 discharged from the storage tank 66 by adjusting the opening degree of the discharge port 91.

[0175] - Variation Example 2 -

[0176] like Figure 7 As shown, the upstream end of the discharge passage 74 is connected to the storage tank 66. A three-way switching valve 95 is connected to the downstream end of the discharge passage 74.

[0177] A first discharge passage 96, a second discharge passage 97, and a third discharge passage 98 are connected to a three-way switching valve 95. The diameter of the first discharge passage 96 is larger than the diameter of the second discharge passage 97. The diameter of the second discharge passage 97 is larger than the diameter of the third discharge passage 98.

[0178] The three-way switching valve 95 can switch between a closed discharge passage 74 state and a state in which the storage tank 66 is connected to any one of the first discharge passage 96, the second discharge passage 97, and the third discharge passage 98.

[0179] Here, the amount of ripening agent 16 discharged is maximized when the storage tank 66 is connected to the first discharge passage 96. On the other hand, the amount of ripening agent 16 discharged is minimized when the storage tank 66 is connected to the third discharge passage 98. In this way, the amount of ripening agent 16 discharged from the storage tank 66 can be adjusted.

[0180] - Variation Example 3 -

[0181] like Figure 8 As shown, in the intake passage 71, a pressure-reducing device 65 and a first switching valve 88 are connected sequentially from the upstream side. In the release passage 72, a second switching valve 89 and a pressure-reducing device 65 are connected sequentially from the upstream side.

[0182] A storage tank 66 is connected to the adsorption section 62. The storage tank 66 stores air containing a ripening agent 16, which is released from the adsorption section 62. The upstream end of the discharge passage 74 is connected to the storage tank 66. A three-way switching valve 95 is connected to the downstream end of the discharge passage 74. A regulating valve 85 is connected midway through the discharge passage 74. The regulating valve 85 adjusts the flow rate of air discharged from the discharge passage 74 by adjusting its opening degree.

[0183] A first discharge passage 96, a second discharge passage 97, and a third discharge passage 98 are connected to a three-way switching valve 95. The diameter of the first discharge passage 96 is larger than the diameter of the second discharge passage 97. The diameter of the second discharge passage 97 is larger than the diameter of the third discharge passage 98.

[0184] The three-way switching valve 95 can switch between a closed discharge passage 74 state and a state in which the storage tank 66 is connected to any one of the first discharge passage 96, the second discharge passage 97, and the third discharge passage 98.

[0185] During adsorption operation, the first switching valve 88 is opened, while the second switching valve 89, regulating valve 85, and three-way switching valve 95 are closed. The ripening control unit 70 drives the pressure relief device 65 on the suction passage 71 side.

[0186] During disengagement, the second switching valve 89 is opened, while the first switching valve 88, regulating valve 85, and three-way switching valve 95 are closed. The ripening control unit 70 drives the pressure relief device 65 on the release passage 72 side. A portion of the released ripening component 16 is stored in the storage tank 66.

[0187] During discharge operation, the opening degree of the regulating valve 85 is adjusted, and the connection state of the three-way switching valve 95 is switched. A portion of the ripening agent 16 stored in the storage tank 66 is discharged to the outside of the container 1 through the discharge passage 74. After a certain amount of ripening agent 16 is discharged from the storage tank 66, the ripening control unit 70 closes the regulating valve 85 and the three-way switching valve 95.

[0188] In this way, the amount of ripening agent 16 discharged from storage tank 66 can be adjusted.

[0189] - Variation Example 4 -

[0190] like Figure 9 As shown, the object space S includes a first object space 101 and a second object space 102. Figure 9 In the example shown, there are two containers 1. Figure 9 In this configuration, the interior of the left container 1 is designated as the first object space 101, and the interior of the right container 1 is designated as the second object space 102. The two containers 1 are connected by a connecting passage 75. The first object space 101 and the second object space 102 are connected by the connecting passage 75. A ripening control device 60 is connected midway through the connecting passage 75.

[0191] The ripening control unit 70 of the ripening control device 60 executes a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode, the ripening agent 16 produced by the plant 15 in the second target space 102 and adsorbed in the adsorption unit 62 is supplied to the first target space 101 (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0192] Specifically, in the first mode, the adsorption unit 62 adsorbs the ripening agent 16 produced by the plant 15 in the second target space 102. The ripening agent 16, which is adsorbed by the adsorption unit 62 and then released, is stored in the storage tank 66. When it is time to ripen the plant 15 in the first target space 101, the ripening agent 16 stored in the storage tank 66 is supplied to the first target space 101.

[0193] On the other hand, in the second mode, the ripening agent 16 produced by the plant 15 in the first object space 101 and adsorbed in the adsorption section 62 is supplied to the second object space 102 (see reference). Figure 10 ).

[0194] Specifically, in the second mode, the adsorption unit 62 adsorbs the ripening agent 16 produced by the plant 15 in the first target space 101. The ripening agent 16, which is adsorbed by the adsorption unit 62 and then released, is stored in the storage tank 66. When it is time to ripen the plant 15 in the second target space 102, the ripening agent 16 stored in the storage tank 66 is supplied to the second target space 102.

[0195] It should be noted that, in Figure 9 and Figure 10 The text describes a structure for exchanging ripening agent 16 between two containers 1 containing plants 15, but it could also be a structure for exchanging ripening agent 16 between two storage rooms containing plants 15.

[0196] Other Implementation Methods

[0197] The above implementation method can also adopt the following structure.

[0198] In the above embodiments, the adsorption unit 62 is not limited to a hollow fiber membrane 62a or a metal-organic framework (MOF) structure; for example, zeolite, activated carbon, natural rock, bamboo, etc., can also be used. As the holding unit for holding the ripening agent 16, a structure can also be adopted in which air containing the ripening agent 16 is passed through to capture the ripening agent 16 into the internal space of the holding unit 62.

[0199] In the above embodiment, ethylene was used as an example of the ripening agent 16 produced by plant 15, but it can also be, for example, butene, propylene, acetylene, etc.

[0200] In the above embodiment, a semiconductor sensor was described as an example of a sensor for measuring the concentration of ripening agent 16, but other sensors such as contact combustion sensors, electrochemical sensors, and biosensors can also be used.

[0201] In the above embodiments, the heating unit 64 is not limited to a structure using a heater 64. For example, a thermoelectric element, high-temperature and high-pressure gas from the refrigeration device 10, waste heat, etc., may also be used.

[0202] In the above embodiment, the structure of the release part 63 including both the heating part 64 and the pressurizing part 65 is described, but it may also be a structure that includes only one of them.

[0203] In the above embodiments, the detection unit 87, which detects the maturity state of the plant 15, may also be a structure that detects images, near-infrared rays, respiration quotient, fluorescence, aroma, etc.

[0204] In the above embodiment, an example of applying the ripening control device 60 to a maritime transport container 1 has been described, but the application of the ripening control device 60 is not limited to this. Besides maritime transport containers, the ripening control device 60 can also be used for ripening control in, for example, land transport containers, simple cold storage facilities, and ambient temperature storage facilities. The ripening control device 60 can also control the ripening of materials within a fixed storage facility (cold storage facility), rather than controlling the ripening of materials within a transport container. The ripening control device 60 can also be applied to boxes that can hold approximately several plants 15.

[0205] The above describes the implementation methods and variations, but it is understood that various changes can be made to the methods and specific situations without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. As long as the function of the object of this disclosure is not affected, the above implementation methods and variations can be appropriately combined or substituted. The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., in the specification and claims are only used to distinguish statements containing these terms and are not intended to limit the number or order of the statements.

[0206] -Industry Applicability-

[0207] In summary, this disclosure is useful for ripening control devices, air composition conditioning devices, containers, and cold storage facilities.

[0208] - Symbol Explanation -

[0209] 1 container (cold storage)

[0210] 2. Container body

[0211] 10 Refrigeration unit

[0212] 15. Plants (object)

[0213] 16 ripening agents

[0214] 30 Gas Supply Unit (Air Composition Regulator)

[0215] 60. Ripening control device

[0216] 62 Adsorption section (holding section)

[0217] 62a Hollow Fiber Membrane

[0218] 63. Separation section

[0219] 64. Heater (Heating Section)

[0220] 65 Pressure regulating device (supply section, pressure regulating section)

[0221] 66. Storage tanks (storage section)

[0222] 70. Roasting Control Department

[0223] 74 Discharge Pathway (Discharge Section)

[0224] 80 Adjustment Section

[0225] 85 Control valve

[0226] 86 Measurement Department

[0227] 87 Testing Department

[0228] 91 Discharge outlet

[0229] 92. Door opening and closing mechanism (opening and closing section)

[0230] 95 Three-way switching valve (switching valve)

[0231] 96 First discharge pathway (discharge pathway)

[0232] 97 Second discharge pathway (discharge pathway)

[0233] 98 Third Excretion Pathway (Excretion Pathway)

[0234] 101 First Object Space

[0235] 102 Second Object Space

[0236] S - Internal space of the box (object space)

Claims

1. A ripening control device for ripening an object (15) contained in an object space (S), characterized in that: The ripening control device includes: The holding part (62) holds the ripening agent (16) generated by the object (15) and causing the object (15) to mature. A release section (63) that allows the ripening agent (16) held by the holding section (62) to detach from the holding section (62); and The supply unit (65) supplies the ripening agent (16) that has been separated from the detachment unit (63) to the object space (S). The ripening control device also includes: Storage section (66), wherein the storage section (66) stores at least a portion of the ripening agent (16) that has detached from the holding section (62) via the release section (63) when the amount of ripening agent (16) held by the holding section (62) exceeds a predetermined upper limit; and Discharge section (74) discharges at least a portion of the ripening agent (16) that has been released from the storage section (66) to the outside of the object space (S) when the amount of ripening agent (16) stored in the storage section (66) exceeds a predetermined upper limit of storage.

2. The ripening control device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ripening control device includes a ripening control unit (70), which controls the operation of the detachment unit (63) and the supply unit (65). The object space (S) includes a first object space (101) and a second object space (102). The ripening control unit (70) executes a first mode in which the ripening ingredient (16) is supplied to the first object space (101), and the ripening ingredient (16) is generated by the object (15) in the second object space (102) and held in the holding unit (62).

3. The ripening control device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The ripening control unit (70) executes a second mode in which the ripening ingredient (16) is supplied to the second object space (102), the ripening ingredient (16) is generated by the object (15) in the first object space (101) and is held in the holding unit (62).

4. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The retaining part (62) has a hollow fiber membrane (62a).

5. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that: The retaining part (62) has a metal-organic framework.

6. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that: The retaining part (62) is connected to the storage tank (66), which stores air containing the ripening ingredient (16).

7. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The detachment part (63) has a heating part (64) that heats the holding part (62).

8. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The detachment part (63) has a pressurizing part (65) that pressurizes the holding part (62).

9. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: The ripening control device includes a measuring unit (86) that measures the concentration of ripening component (16) in the object space (S).

10. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that: The ripening control device includes an adjustment unit (80) that adjusts the concentration of ripening component (16) in the object space (S).

11. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that: The regulating unit (80) includes at least one of a heating unit (64), a pressurizing unit (65), a regulating valve (85), a switching unit (92), and a switching valve (95). The heating unit (64) adjusts the amount of heat applied to the holding unit (62). The pressurizing unit (65) adjusts the amount of pressure applied to the holding unit (62). The regulating valve (85) regulates the flow rate of air released from the retaining part (62) to the object space (S). The switch (92) adjusts the opening of the outlet (91), which connects the storage tank (66) storing the ripening agent (16) to the outside. The switching valve (95) connects any one of the multiple discharge passages (96, 97, 98) to the storage tank (66), wherein the diameters of the multiple discharge passages (96, 97, 98) are different and all of the multiple discharge passages (96, 97, 98) are connected to the outside.

12. The ripening control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that: The ripening control device includes: The detection unit (87) detects the state of the object (15); and The ripening control unit (70) controls the operation of the detachment unit (63) based on the detection result of the detection unit (87).

13. An air composition regulating device, characterized in that: The air composition conditioning device includes: The ripening control device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; and An air composition regulating unit (30) introduces air with a composition different from that of the outside air into the object space (S).

14. A container, characterized in that: The container includes: The ripening control device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; and The container body (2) has the object space (S) inside.

15. A cold storage facility, characterized in that: The cold storage includes: The ripening control device (60) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; and A refrigeration device (10) for cooling the object space (S).

Images