Snowfall device, artificial weather chamber, and snowfall method

Abstract

The present application provides a snowfall device, an artificial weather chamber, and a snowfall method. The snowfall device includes a snow storage unit having a snow making function to generate snow and a snow storage function to keep the generated snow in a non-solidified state and store it, and a snowfall unit that is introduced with the snow stored in the snow storage unit and causes the introduced snow to fall or be supplied to a sample body, wherein the snow storage unit includes a tank having at least the snow making function, a blower, and a circulation path connected to the tank at both ends and provided with the blower, and the snow making function includes a structure in which, by operation of the blower, the snow is mainly air conveyed from top to bottom in the tank, and the snow flowing from the tank to the circulation path is returned to the tank again.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of patent application No. 202010179251.6, filed on March 13, 2020, entitled "Snowfall Device, Artificial Weather Chamber and Snowfall Method". Technical Field

[0002] This invention relates to a snowmaking device, an artificial weather chamber, and a snowmaking method. Background Technology

[0003] As disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication Nos. 5843240 and 6-63686, snowmaking devices for artificial snowfall are known. For example, the snowmaking device disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 5843240 includes an ice-making chamber equipped with an ice maker and a low-temperature chamber for pulverizing ice produced in the ice-making chamber into ice pellets under low-temperature conditions. The pulverized artificial snow is conveyed under pressure towards a wind tunnel. On the other hand, the snowmaking device disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication Nos. 6-63686 includes an ice crystal generating mechanism, a collection chamber for collecting ice crystals generated in the ice crystal generating mechanism, a liquid spraying mechanism for generating fog, and an ultrasonic levitation mechanism for forming a low-temperature ultrasonic field. In this device, fog and ice crystals become snowflakes during the levitation process using the ultrasonic field, and the snowflakes fall naturally.

[0004] The snowmaking devices disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 5843240 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 6-63686 employ a structure that simultaneously produces snow and releases it sequentially. Therefore, the amount of snowfall or snow supply is limited by the snowmaking capacity. In other words, it is impossible to obtain a snowfall exceeding the snowmaking capacity. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a snowmaking device, an artificial weather chamber, and a snowmaking method for obtaining snowfall or snow supply that is not limited by snowmaking capacity.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention relates to a snow-falling device comprising: a snow storage unit having a snow-making function for generating snow and a snow-storage function for maintaining and storing the generated snow in a non-freezing state; and a snow-falling unit for introducing snow stored in the snow storage unit and causing the introduced snow to fall or be supplied to a sample, wherein the snow storage unit comprises at least a tank having the snow-making function, a blower, and a circulation path connected at both ends to the tank and provided with the blower, the snow storage function comprising the following structure: through the operation of the blower, snow is mainly transported from top to bottom by air in the tank, and snow flowing out of the tank to the circulation path is returned to the tank.

[0007] One aspect of the snowmaking apparatus of the present invention includes: a snow storage unit having a snowmaking function for generating snow and a snow storage function for maintaining and storing the generated snow in a non-freezing state; a supply path; and a snowfalling unit, through which snow stored in the snow storage unit is introduced and the introduced snow is allowed to fall or be supplied to a sample, wherein the snow storage unit includes a tank having the snowmaking function and a blower, and the snow storage unit, in a state where the snow is not allowed to be transported to the snowfalling unit through the supply path or the flow rate of the air accompanying the snow being transported to the snowfalling unit through the supply path is adjusted, uses the blower to flow the snow in the tank that has grown to the extent of falling based on gravity, thereby maintaining and storing the snow in a non-freezing state.

[0008] Another aspect of the invention relates to an artificial weather chamber comprising: the snowmaking device; and a test chamber having a space for arranging a sample, wherein the snowmaking device snows or supplies snow to the sample in the test chamber.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a snowfall method using the snowfall device, comprising the following steps: generating snow in the snow storage section of the snowfall device; maintaining and storing the generated snow in the snow storage section in a non-freezing state; introducing the snow in the snow storage section into the snowfall section; and snowfalling through the snowfall section or supplying snow to a sample.

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to obtain snowfall or snow supply that is not limited by snowmaking capacity. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates the snow-falling device according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the connection points of the circulation path to the tank.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates a snow-falling device according to a variation of the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates the snow-falling device according to the second embodiment.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the snow-falling device according to the third embodiment.

[0016] Figure 6 This is a diagram that roughly illustrates the snow-falling device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the snow-falling device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a diagram that roughly represents the artificial weather chamber involved in the sixth embodiment.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a diagram that schematically illustrates the artificial weather chamber involved in a variation of the sixth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0021] (First Implementation)

[0022] like Figure 1 As shown, the snowmaking device 10 according to the first embodiment is a device for artificially generating snow and causing the generated snow to fall. The snowmaking device 10 includes an ice crystal generating unit 12, a snow storage unit 14, an adjusting unit 18, and a snowfall unit 20.

[0023] The ice crystal generating unit 12 is configured to generate ice crystals that serve as nuclei for snow growth. Ice crystals are produced by freezing fine water droplets generated by a humidifier, such as an ultrasonic humidifier. The ice crystal generating unit 12 has a low-temperature space where fine water droplets are sprayed. The temperature within this space is adjusted to, for example, below -40°C. Therefore, the mist-like fine water droplets in the ice crystal generating unit 12 freeze to generate ice crystals. Ice crystals are ice particles of a size that are suspended in the air without naturally falling. The ice crystals generated in the ice crystal generating unit 12 are piped into the tank 22 of the snow storage unit 14, described later.

[0024] The snow storage section 14 is a part that generates snow and stores the generated snow as non-freezing snow. It has a tank 22, a circulation path 24 connected to the tank 22 at both ends, and a connecting path 26 branching from the circulation path 24. The tank 22 is sized to temporarily store snow for a specified period of time, such as a set test time.

[0025] One end of the circulation path 24 is connected to the bottom (lower part) of the tank 22, and the other end is connected to the side of the tank 22. A blower 28 is installed in the circulation path 24. By operating the blower 28, air inside the tank 22 is drawn in from the bottom of the tank 22. The air flowing in the circulation path 24 is blown out from the side of the tank 22 into the tank 22. That is, in the circulation path 24, the end connected to the bottom of the tank 22 is the suction end, and the end connected to the side of the tank 22 is the discharge end.

[0026] One end of the connecting passage 26 is connected to the downstream side of the blower 28 in the circulation passage 24, and the other end is connected to the top of the tank 22. A portion of the air flowing in the circulation passage 24, accompanied by snow, flows into the connecting passage 26. Since the other end of the connecting passage 26 is connected to the central part of the top, the snow blown into the tank 22 from the connecting passage 26 is less likely to adhere to the inner wall of the tank 22.

[0027] A cooler 30 is provided in the connecting passage 26 to cool the air flowing along the snow. The cooler 30 has the ability to cool the air to the temperature at which snow is generated and fine snowflakes grow inside the tank 22. The cooler 30 is, for example, an evaporator of a vapor compression refrigeration machine.

[0028] The tank 22 forms a space for snow to be generated and grow. Specifically, multiple nozzles 32 are arranged inside the tank 22 to spray low-temperature water droplets in a mist form. These nozzles 32 are upward-facing and spray water droplets in a mist form. The nozzles 32 can be made of two-fluid nozzles. The temperature inside the tank 22 is adjusted to about -20°C by introducing air cooled by the cooler 30. Therefore, in the space inside the tank 22, above the nozzles 32, ice crystals generated in the ice crystal generation section 12 come into contact with the mist-like water droplets sprayed from the nozzles 32, and snowflakes grow using the ice crystals as nuclei. That is, the snow storage section 14 has a snowmaking function, and the space above the nozzles 32 inside the tank 22 becomes a space for snow to be generated and grow. On the other hand, the space below the nozzles 32 inside the tank 22 becomes a snow storage space for storing the generated snow. In other words, inside the tank 22, snow is generated above the part of the airflow accompanying the snow by the snowmaking function. Since the nozzle 32 is configured to spray water from bottom to top, it is possible to prevent the snow in the snow storage space from becoming wet due to water droplets adhering to it.

[0029] The side of the can 22, located below the connection at the other end of the circulation path 24, slopes downwards towards the center. Therefore, snow tends to flow towards the bottom of the center.

[0030] Alternatively, a structure in which the ice crystal generation section 12 is omitted can be used. In this case, if the temperature inside the tank 22 is adjusted to around -40°C, snow can be generated inside the tank 22.

[0031] The other end of the circulation path 24 is connected to the side of the tank 22 below the nozzle 32. This other end is as follows: Figure 2As shown, the air is connected to the side of the tank 22 in a direction that deviates laterally from the centerline 22a extending vertically along the tank 22. Specifically, the tank 22 is circular in plan view, and the circulation path 24 is connected to the tank 22 by passing its extension line at a position deviating from the centerline 22a of the circle. Therefore, when the blower 28 operates and air is blown from the circulation path 24 into the tank 22, a circulating flow of air accompanying the snow is generated below the nozzle 32 in the tank 22, causing the air accompanying the snow to rotate circumferentially along the inner surface of the tank 22. Therefore, the snow generated in the tank 22 and the snow blown into the tank 22 from the circulation path 24 are stored in the tank 22 while flowing. That is, the snow is not stored in the tank 22 in a state of accumulation, but in a state of flow. Therefore, the snow in the snow storage section 14 does not freeze for a long time and remains in a state of snow. That is, the snow storage section 14 has a mechanism to keep the snow in the snow storage section 14 in a non-freezing state.

[0032] In the snow storage section 14, the snow in the tank 22 is transported by air through the operation of the blower 28, drawn from the bottom of the tank 22 into the circulation path 24, and the air accompanying the snow flowing in the circulation path 24 returns to the tank 22. This circulation is repeated. Furthermore, a portion of the air flowing in the circulation path 24 flows into the connecting path 26. The connecting path 26 causes a portion of the air accompanying the snow flowing in the circulation path 24 to flow into the tank 22 from the top. In other words, the blower 28 guides the snow stored in the tank 22 to the snow-making section through the circulation path 24 and the connecting path 26.

[0033] Additionally, an air inlet (not shown) is provided in the circulation path 24 upstream of the blower 28. This prevents the circulation path 24 upstream of the blower 28 from becoming a near-vacuum low-pressure area, even when snow is supplied via the supply path 34 (described later).

[0034] A supply path 34, which is connected to the snowfall section 20, is connected to the circulation path 24. Therefore, at least a portion of the snow-laden air flowing in the circulation path 24 can be directed to the snowfall section 20 via the supply path 34.

[0035] The regulating unit 18 adjusts the supply flow rate and supply amount of snow from the snow storage unit 14 to the snowfall unit 20. Specifically, the regulating unit 18, under the instruction of the snowfall amount setting device 36, adjusts the supply flow rate and supply amount of air accompanying the snow to the snowfall unit 20. The regulating unit 18 has a first damper 18a disposed downstream of the connection of the supply path 34 in the circulation path 24 and a second damper 18b disposed in the supply path 34. The snowfall amount setting device 36 controls the opening degree of the first damper 18a and the second damper 18b according to the set snowfall amount. In addition, the snowfall amount set in the snowfall amount setting device 36 represents the amount of snow accumulated per unit time. This snowfall amount can be set to be more than the amount of snow that can be generated in the snow storage unit 14 per unit time.

[0036] At least a portion of the air carrying snow flowing in the circulation path 24 is introduced into the snowfall section 20. The snowfall section 20 has a snow outlet 20a for causing the introduced snow to fall. The snow from the snow outlet 20a is diffused by a diffusion member (not shown) to fall. Alternatively, if the snowfall device 10 is used outdoors, the snowfall section 20 may also be configured outdoors. Or the snowfall section 20 may be configured in a laboratory (not shown).

[0037] Alternatively, the structure could be one in which snow is blown directly from the snow outlet 20a without restricting the pipe constituting the supply path 34 at the snow outlet 20a. However, instead of this structure, the snow outlet 20a could be formed by a snow-falling nozzle that restricts the pipe constituting the supply path 34, and snow could fall from the snow-falling nozzle.

[0038] The snow introduced into the snowfall section 20 is dry snow. Therefore, the snowfall section 20 is provided with a nozzle 38 that sprays water in a mist onto the introduced dry snow. Accordingly, wet snow can fall from the snowfall section 20. In addition, the nozzle 38 can also spray air and water in a mist simultaneously. In this case, a mechanism for adjusting the amount of air sprayed can be added. Alternatively, a structure in which the nozzle 38 is omitted and dry snow falls from the snowfall section 20 can also be used.

[0039] A nozzle 38 that sprays water in a mist towards the snow is connected to a water supply pipe 39 that supplies water to the nozzle 38. A water flow adjustment valve 39a is provided on the water supply pipe 39. The water flow adjustment valve 39a adjusts the spray volume according to a command from a moisture content setting device 42. The moisture content setting device 42 is a device for setting the moisture content of the snow falling from the snowfall section 20, and outputs a command corresponding to the set moisture content. The water flow adjustment valve 39a adjusts its opening according to this command. Accordingly, the spray volume from the nozzle 38 is adjusted. That is, the snowfall section 20 is configured to produce snow corresponding to the set moisture content. Furthermore, the moisture content setting device 42 can be configured to change the set moisture content. In this case, snow with various moisture contents can be produced, and the snow quality can be changed. When adjusting the water volume using the water flow adjustment valve 39a, the set snowfall amount of the snowfall amount setting device 36 can also be considered. Furthermore, if the snowfall section 20 is designed to produce wet snow with a specified moisture content, the nozzle 38 can also be configured to spray a specified amount of water in a mist. In this case, the moisture content setter 42 is omitted. However, when the moisture content setter 42 is omitted, the water volume adjustment valve 39a is configured to adjust the water volume according to the set snowfall amount set by the snowfall setter 36 when the snowfall amount changes. Alternatively, a structure can be adopted in which the water spray volume is directly adjusted using the nozzle 38.

[0040] Alternatively, a spray volume setter can be installed instead of a moisture content setter 42. In this case, the opening of the water volume adjustment valve 39a or the spray volume of the nozzle 38 is adjusted to achieve the spray volume set by the spray volume setter. In this configuration, the moisture content of the snow falling from the snowfall section 20 can also be adjusted.

[0041] Here, the snowfall method performed by the snowfall device 10 according to the first embodiment will be described. First, ice crystals are generated in the ice crystal generation section 12. To generate ice crystals, fine water droplets are generated by a humidifier, and these water droplets are sprayed into the ice crystal generation section 12. Since the temperature inside the ice crystal generation section 12 is adjusted to, for example, below -40°C, the sprayed mist-like fine water droplets freeze to form ice crystals.

[0042] The ice crystals generated in the ice crystal generation section 12 are introduced into the tank 22 of the snow storage section 14. The temperature inside the tank 22 of the snow storage section 14 is adjusted to approximately -20°C, and fine water droplets are sprayed out in a mist form from the nozzle 32. As a result, the ice crystals become nuclei and grow into snowflakes. The snowflakes gradually grow, and if they grow to the point where they fall due to gravity, they fall below the nozzle 32. In addition, the suction effect of the blower 28 inside the tank 22 also plays a role, so some of the fine snowflakes also flow downwards towards the nozzle 32.

[0043] By operating the blower 28, snow stored in the tank 22, particularly below the nozzle 32, is drawn from the bottom of the tank 22 into the circulation path 24 and flows there. Air accompanying the snow flowing in the circulation path 24 is blown into the tank 22 from its side. At this time, the air is blown into the tank 22 in a direction deviating from the centerline 22a of the tank 22, thus the air accompanying the snow flows circumferentially along the inner surface of the side of the tank 22 below the nozzle 32. Therefore, in the snow storage section 14, circulation of the air accompanying the snow through the circulation path 24 is generated, and snow flow occurs within the tank 22. Thus, in the snow storage section 14, snow is kept in a non-freezing state and stored. In other words, the snow storage section 14 has a snow storage function.

[0044] A portion of the snow-laden air flowing in circulation path 24 is introduced into connecting path 26. In connecting path 26, the snow-laden air is cooled by cooler 30. The cooled snow-laden air is introduced into tank 22 from the top. That is, cooling air is introduced into tank 22, thus maintaining a snow-making environment inside tank 22. Snow flowing into tank 22 from the top grows by contacting water droplets sprayed in a mist from nozzle 32. In other words, the snow-laden air discharged from tank 22 to circulation path 24 is directed to the snow-making section located in the upper part of tank 22, where snow grows. Furthermore, after a predetermined amount of snow has been generated, the spraying of water in a mist from nozzle 32 is stopped, but the operation of blower 28 continues. That is, snow storage unit 14 can be in a state where snow-making and snow-laden air circulation are carried out simultaneously, or in a state where snow-laden air circulation is carried out without snow-making.

[0045] The snow storage unit 14 stores snow before the snowfall from the snowfall unit 20. Therefore, snow can be pre-made and stored before the command from the snowfall setting device 36 is sent to the regulating unit 18. At this time, the second airlock 18b is closed, and the first airlock 18a is fully open. Therefore, in the snow storage unit 14, the air accompanying the snow is not transported to the snowfall unit 20, but circulates between the tank 22 and the circulation path 24.

[0046] If a command is sent from the snowfall setting device 36 to the adjustment unit 18, the opening of the first airlock 18a and the second airlock 18b is adjusted to allow air of the flow rate corresponding to the command to flow into the supply path 34. Accordingly, at least a portion of the snow flowing in the circulation path 24 is guided to the snowfall unit 20 through the supply path 34. Furthermore, by sending a command from the snowfall setting device 36, the snowfall amount can be changed during snowfall. At this time, it is possible to change the snowfall amount while snowfall is occurring.

[0047] In the snowfall section 20, the opening of the water volume adjustment valve 39a is adjusted according to the command from the moisture content setting device 42. Accordingly, the spray volume of water from the nozzle 38 is adjusted, and the snow sprayed from the snow outlet 20a becomes wet snow with the desired moisture content. This wet snow is then diffused through the diffusion member and falls as snow. Alternatively, the adjustment of the water spray volume can be based on the snowfall amount set by the snowfall amount setting device 36. Furthermore, the snowfall section 20 can also be designed such that after the snow is diffused through the diffusion member, it is wetted by the water spray from the nozzle 38.

[0048] As explained above, in this embodiment, snow is generated in the snow storage section 14 and stored while remaining in a non-frozen state. Furthermore, the snowfall device 10 causes the snow stored in the snow storage section 14 to fall via the snowfall section 20. That is, the amount of snow introduced from the snow storage section 14 to the snowfall section 20 per unit time can exceed the snowmaking capacity of the snow storage section 14 per unit time. Additionally, the total amount of snowfall that will occur within a predetermined time by the snowfall section 20 can be pre-stored in the snow storage section 14. Therefore, unlike a structure where snow is made and snowfall occurs sequentially, the amount of snowfall or snow supply is not limited by the snowmaking capacity. Thus, in the snowfall device 10, the amount of snowfall or snow supply can be obtained without being limited by the snowmaking capacity per unit time. Moreover, since the snow is kept in a non-frozen state in the snow storage section 14, snowfall can occur from the snowfall section 20 as long as the snow stored in the snow storage section 14 is introduced into the snowfall section 20. Furthermore, while the snow is kept in the snow storage section 14 in a way that prevents it from freezing, this does not mean that all the snow is completely free of freezing. It is possible to keep it in a non-freezing state, but sometimes the snow freezes locally. In short, the goal is simply to keep the snow in the snow storage section 14 in a state that allows it to be supplied to the snowfall section 20.

[0049] Furthermore, in this embodiment, by operating the blower 28 in the snow storage section 14, air flows along with the snow within the tank 22. Therefore, the snow in the tank 22 is stored in the snow storage section 14 in a continuous, non-static manner until it is introduced into the snowfall section 20. Thus, in the snow storage section 14, the snow can be kept in a non-freezing state for a long time after snowmaking. In other words, it can be said that the structure that causes the air to flow along with the snow utilizes the air pressure drawn into the tank 22 to create the airflow along with the snow within the tank 22.

[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the air accompanying the snow flows circumferentially along the inner surface of the side of the can 22 within the can 22. Therefore, air can flow smoothly within the can 22, making it easy to maintain a state where the snow does not freeze.

[0051] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the circulation path 24 is connected to the tank 22, and air flows through the circulation path 24 due to the operation of the blower 28. Accordingly, snow inside the tank 22 is transported by air and flows through the circulation path 24. The air accompanying the snow flowing in the circulation path 24 returns to the tank 22. Thus, snow is transported by air and flows through the circulation path 24 until it is introduced into the snowfall section 20, thereby preventing the snow from freezing. In addition, the airflow in the circulation path 24 also acts on the tank 22, causing air to flow along with the snow within the tank 22. Therefore, the snow is also prevented from freezing within the tank 22. Furthermore, compared to a structure that prevents the air accompanying the snow from circulating between the tank 22 and the circulation path 24, allowing the air accompanying the snow to flow only within the tank 22, it is possible to suppress the large size of the tank 22.

[0052] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the snow generation section of the tank 22 in the snow storage section 14 is located above the connection of the circulation path 24. Large snowflakes in the generated snow tend to fall to the lower part, so there is no need to add a mechanism for conveying large snowflakes to the lower part of the connection of the circulation path 24. On the other hand, snow flowing below the connection of the circulation path 24 within the tank 22 is unlikely to flow to the snow-making section. Therefore, large snowflakes can be easily kept in the lower part of the tank 22. Moreover, the influence of airflow in the lower part of the tank 22 is unlikely to affect the snow generation section. Therefore, in the snow-making space, it is possible to suppress the situation where the generated snow is conveyed by the air introduced from the circulation path 24 and flows along the inner wall of the tank 22, and it is possible to suppress the generated snow from adhering to the inner wall of the tank 22.

[0053] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the circulation path 24 is connected to the tank 22 in a manner that allows air to flow in in a direction deviating from the centerline 22a of the tank 22. Therefore, by blowing air accompanied by snow into the tank 22, air flows around the centerline 22a (circumferentially) of the tank along with the snow within the tank 22. That is, by adjusting the connection position of the circulation path 24 to the tank 22, a structure that circulates air within the tank 22 can be achieved, thus eliminating the need for additional stirring mechanisms or the like.

[0054] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the air present in the snow storage section within the tank 22 is guided to the snow-making section within the tank 22 along with the snow through the circulation path 24 and the connecting path 26. By conveying the fine snow flakes from the tank 22 to the snow-making section, the snow flakes can be made to grow. Therefore, the number of incompletely grown snow flakes can be reduced.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since the adjustment unit 18 is provided, the amount of snowfall from the snowfall unit 20 can be changed. Therefore, the amount of snowfall can also be varied.

[0056] Furthermore, the regulating unit 18 adjusts the diversion ratio from the circulation path 24 in such a way that at least a portion of the air flowing in the circulation path 24 accompanied by snow is introduced into the snowfall section 20. In other words, the amount of snow delivered to the snowfall section 20 can be adjusted by simply adjusting the ratio of snow circulating through the circulation path 24 to snow introduced into the snowfall section 20.

[0057] Furthermore, this embodiment employs a structure where the ice crystal generating section 12 is connected to the tank 22 of the snow storage section 14, but it is not limited to this. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, a structure can also be adopted in which air at around -40°C is introduced into the tank 22 of the snow storage unit 14. In this case, a pipe 61 is provided to guide air into the tank 22. Furthermore, a cooling device 60 is provided to cool the air flowing in the pipe 61 to around -40°C (for example, -35°C to -45°C). In addition, the air introduced into the tank 22 is preferably dry air.

[0058] Air cooled by the cooling device 60 is introduced into the tank 22 of the snow storage unit 14 via a pipe 61. The pipe 61 is connected to the tank 22 in such a way that it sprays air towards water ejected from a nozzle 32 disposed inside the tank 22. Alternatively, the nozzle 32 may be configured to spray water in a direction along the side of the tank 22 and in the same direction as the circumferential rotation of the air from the circulation path 24. The nozzle 32 is configured to spray out fine water droplets generated by the ultrasonic humidifier in a mist.

[0059] Alternatively, the inner surface of tank 22 can be treated with waterproofing, hydrophilic treatment, mirror finish, or other surface treatments.

[0060] A vibration unit 62 may also be provided to vibrate the tank 22, the first airlock 18a, or the circulation path 24 of the snow storage section 14. Vibration of the tank 22, the first airlock 18a, or the circulation path 24 can suppress snow from adhering to the tank 22, the first airlock 18a, or the circulation path 24. The vibration unit 62 is configured to vibrate the tank 22, the first airlock 18a, or the circulation path 24 by applying an impact to it or by shaking it. The vibration unit 62 may also be omitted.

[0061] The excitation unit 62 can also be configured to vibrate the connecting path 26. In this case, it is possible to suppress snow from adhering to the connecting path 26.

[0062] (Second Implementation)

[0063] Figure 4 This indicates the second embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0064] In the first embodiment, the blower 28 draws air from the end of the circulation path 24 connected to the bottom of the canister 22 into the circulation path 24, and blows air out of the canister 22 from the end connected to the side of the canister 22. That is, a downward airflow is primarily generated within the canister 22. In contrast, in the second embodiment, a downward airflow is primarily generated within the canister 22. That is, in the second embodiment, the blower 28 draws air from the end of the circulation path 24 connected to the top of the canister 22 into the circulation path 24, and blows air out of the canister 22 from the end connected to the side of the canister. Therefore, large snowflakes are less likely to be drawn into the circulation path 24 and mainly flow within the canister 22.

[0065] The end of the circulation path 24 that connects to the side of the tank 22 is located below the nozzle 32.

[0066] In the second embodiment, no connecting path 26 branching from the circulation path 24 is provided, and the cooler 30 is disposed within the circulation path 24. When the blower 28 operates, the air cooled by the cooler 30 in the circulation path 24 is blown into the tank 22. Since upward airflow is primarily generated within the tank 22, large snowflakes rotate circumferentially below the nozzle 32 within the tank 22, while smaller snowflakes are transported upwards by the air. In the upper part of the tank 22, as the smaller snowflakes come into contact with water droplets ejected from the nozzle 32, they grow into larger snowflakes.

[0067] Supply path 34 is connected to tank 22, not circulation path 24. An airlock 18c is installed in supply path 34. This airlock 18c functions as an adjustment unit 18 for regulating the supply flow and amount of snow from snow storage unit 14 to snowfall unit 20. Snowfall setting device 36 controls airlock 18c to open supply path 34 only when snowfall occurs from snowfall unit 20. When only snow generation and storage are performed, airlock 18c is closed by snowfall setting device 36.

[0068] In this embodiment, by operating the blower 28, air flows along with the snow within the snow-making tank 22. That is, the airflow within the tank 22, accompanied by the snow, is caused by the force of the air blown into it. Therefore, the snow within the tank 22 is continuously moving and stored in the snow storage unit 14 until it is introduced into the snowfall section 20. Furthermore, the snow is transported by air and flows through the circulation path 24 until it is introduced into the snowfall section 20. Therefore, within the snow storage unit 14, the snow can be kept in a non-freezing state for an extended period after snowmaking.

[0069] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fine snowflakes inside the tank 22 are transported to the snowmaking section and allowed to grow. Large snowflakes have difficulty flowing upwards, while fine snowflakes flow upwards easily. Therefore, it is mainly the fine snowflakes that are easily guided into the snowmaking section. As a result, the number of incompletely grown snowflakes can be reduced.

[0070] Alternatively, in this embodiment, the structure having the ice crystal generation section 12 can be substituted with... Figure 3 Similarly, the structure used is to introduce air at approximately -40°C into the tank 22 of the snow storage section 14. A pipe 61 is provided to guide air into the tank 22. Furthermore, a cooling device 60 is provided to cool the air flowing within the pipe 61 to approximately -40°C. The pipe 61 is connected to the tank 22 in such a way that it sprays air towards water ejected from a nozzle 32 inside the tank 22. Additionally, the nozzle 32 can be configured to spray water in a direction along the side of the tank 22 and in the same direction as the circumferential rotation of the air from the circulation path 24.

[0071] The inner surface of the tank 22 can also be treated with waterproofing, hydrophilic treatment, mirror finish, or other surface treatments. A vibration excitation unit 62 can also be provided to vibrate the tank 22 or the circulation path 24.

[0072] Other structures, functions, and effects are omitted from the description, but the description of the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment.

[0073] (Third Implementation)

[0074] Figure 5 This indicates the third embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as in the first embodiment, and their detailed descriptions are omitted herein.

[0075] In the first embodiment, a nozzle 32 is provided to spray water droplets into the tank 22 in a mist-like manner. In contrast, in the third embodiment, the nozzle 32 is not disposed inside the tank 22 but rather downstream of the cooler 30 in the circulation path 24. One end (intake end) of the circulation path 24 is connected to the bottom of the tank 22, and the other end (outtake end) is connected to the top of the tank 22. The nozzle 32 is disposed near the outtake end within the circulation path 24.

[0076] The outlet in circulation path 24 is connected to the top of canister 22, not the side. Therefore, a downward airflow from top to bottom is created within canister 22. If air is blown into canister 22 from circulation path 24, the air velocity decreases. Thus, the air flowing within canister 22 takes the time required for snow to grow before reaching the bottom of canister 22. Furthermore, the fine water droplets ejected from nozzle 32 freeze primarily within canister 22 where the flow velocity is reduced. Therefore, snow is difficult to adhere to circulation path 24 and the inner wall of canister 22. Moreover, the air accompanying the snow flows through canister 22 and circulation path 24, and flows downward within canister 22, thus keeping the snow in a non-freezing state.

[0077] The supply path 34 is connected to the downstream side of the cooler 30 in the circulation path 24, but it can also be connected to the upstream side of the cooler 30 and the downstream side of the blower 28 in the circulation path 24.

[0078] Alternatively, in this embodiment, the structure having the ice crystal generation section 12 can be substituted with... Figure 3 Similarly, the structure shown employs a method that introduces air at approximately -40°C into the tank 22 of the snow storage unit 14. In this case, a pipe 61 is provided to guide air into the tank 22. Furthermore, a cooling device 60 is provided to cool the air flowing within the pipe 61 to approximately -40°C.

[0079] The inner surface of the tank 22 can also be treated with waterproofing, hydrophilic treatment, mirror finish, or other surface treatments. A vibration excitation unit 62 can also be provided to vibrate the tank 22, the first airlock 18a, or the circulation path 24.

[0080] Other structures, functions, and effects are omitted from the description, but the descriptions of the first and second embodiments can be applied to the third embodiment.

[0081] (Fourth Implementation)

[0082] Figure 6 This indicates the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as in the first embodiment, and their detailed descriptions are omitted herein.

[0083] In the fourth embodiment, a partition member 44 is disposed on the inner side of the can 22, and the space inside the can 22 is divided into two spaces.

[0084] The partition member 44 includes, for example, a cylindrical wall portion 44a and a conical inclined portion 44b connected to the lower end of the wall portion 44a. The upper end of the wall portion 44a is connected to the top of the can 22, but a gap may also be formed between it and the top of the can 22. The cylindrical wall portion 44a is positioned to move inward from the side of the can 22, and the inclined portion 44b of the partition member 44 is positioned to move inward from the bottom of the can 22. Therefore, spaces are formed both inside and outside the partition member 44.

[0085] Nozzle 32 is disposed on the inner side of cylindrical wall 44a in a manner that sprays water droplets upward in a mist. That is, the space inside the partition 44, that is, the space surrounded by the partition 44 and the top of the tank 22, becomes a snowmaking space with snowmaking function.

[0086] One end of the circulation path 24 (the intake end) is connected to the bottom of the tank 22, and the other end of the circulation path 24 (the exhaust end) is connected to the side of the tank 22. Therefore, the circulation path 24 draws in air from the space outside the partition member 44, and the air flowing through the circulation path 24 is blown out into the space outside the partition member 44. That is, the space outside the partition member 44 within the inner space of the tank 22 becomes the snow storage space.

[0087] An opening 44c is formed at the lower end of the inclined section 44b, connecting the snowmaking space and the snow storage space. Snow generated in the snowmaking space falls through this opening 44c and is guided into the snow storage space. The snowmaking space and the snow storage space are connected through the opening 44c of the separating component 44.

[0088] The air carrying snow, blown from the circulation path 24 into the snow storage space, flows downwards while circulating around the cylindrical wall 44a. Then, it is drawn into the circulation path 24 from the bottom of the tank 22. This airflow is generated within the snow storage space. On the other hand, since the snowmaking space is separated from the snow storage space by the partition 44, it is less affected by the airflow within the snow storage space.

[0089] Connecting path 26, branching from circulation path 24, connects to the central part of the top of tank 22. Therefore, the air flowing along connecting path 26, carrying snow, is introduced into the snowmaking space within tank 22. An airlock 46 is configured in connecting path 26. If snow generation within tank 22 ceases, the airlock 46 is closed.

[0090] In this embodiment, since the inner space of the tank 22 is divided into a snowmaking space and a snow storage space by the partition component 44, the influence of airflow in the snow storage space on the snowmaking space used to generate snow can be suppressed.

[0091] Furthermore, in this embodiment, snow is generated in the snow-making space within the tank 22, and the generated snow is introduced into the snow storage space through the opening 44c of the partition member 44. Large snowflakes in the generated snow tend to fall to the bottom, therefore, there is no need to add a mechanism for conveying the snow generated within the tank 22 to the airflow section.

[0092] Furthermore, in the fourth embodiment, a structure is adopted in which the connecting path 26 is connected to the circulation path 24, but a structure in which the connecting path 26 is omitted is also possible. In this case, for example, a structure can be adopted in which a gap is formed between the upper end of the wall portion 44a and the top of the tank 22, so that the air accompanying the snow flowing through the circulation path 24 flows not only into the snow storage space but also into the snow making space. In addition, for example, a structure can be adopted in which air accompanying ice crystals is introduced from the ice crystal generation unit 12 into the snow making space.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the structure having the ice crystal generation section 12 can be substituted for the structure having the ice crystal generation section 12. Figure 3 Similarly, the structure used is to introduce air at approximately -40°C into the snow-making space (the space inside the partition member 44) within the tank 22 of the snow storage unit 14. A pipe 61 is provided to guide the air into the snow-making space. Furthermore, a cooling device 60 is provided to cool the air flowing within the pipe 61 to approximately -40°C. The pipe 61 is connected to the partition member 44 in such a way that it sprays air towards the water jet from the nozzle 32 within the snow-making space.

[0094] The inner surface of the tank 22 and the partition component 44 may also be treated with waterproofing, hydrophilic treatment, mirror finish, or other surface treatments. A vibration exciter 62 may also be provided to vibrate the tank 22, the first airlock 18a, or the circulation path 24. The vibration exciter 62 may also have a structure that vibrates the connecting path 26 or the partition component 44.

[0095] Other structures, functions, and effects are omitted from the description, but the description of the first embodiment can be applied to the fourth embodiment.

[0096] (Fifth Implementation)

[0097] Figure 7 This indicates the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for the same constituent elements as in the first embodiment, and their detailed descriptions are omitted herein.

[0098] In the first embodiment, the snow generated in the tank 22 is allowed to fall naturally and be guided to the lower part of the tank 22. In contrast, in the fifth embodiment, the snow generated in the tank 22 is guided into the space below the nozzle 32 through the second circulation path 48.

[0099] Specifically, in the fifth embodiment, the connecting path 26 is omitted, and a second circulation path 48, independently constructed from the circulation path 24, is provided. One end of the second circulation path 48 is connected to the top of the tank 22, and the other end is connected to the portion below the nozzle 32 in the tank 22. A blower 49 is disposed in the second circulation path 48. When the blower 49 is operating, the air generated in the tank 22 along with the snow is guided through the second circulation path 48 to the lower part of the nozzle 32 in the tank 22. The cooler 30 is disposed in the second circulation path 48 instead of the circulation path 24. An upward airflow is formed in the upper part of the tank 22, so fine snowflakes are introduced into the tank 22 below the nozzle 32 and then directed upward toward the nozzle 32. Accordingly, the fine snowflakes grow. On the other hand, large snowflakes fall naturally downward toward the nozzle 32 in the tank 22 regardless of the airflow.

[0100] In the lower part of the tank 22, that is, below the connection of the circulation path 24 on the side of the tank 22, air flows from top to bottom, similar to the first embodiment. Therefore, air accompanying snow can flow into the tank 22 from the circulation path 24.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the structure having the ice crystal generation section 12 can be substituted for the structure having the ice crystal generation section 12. Figure 3 Similarly, the structure used is to introduce air at approximately -40°C into the tank 22 of the snow storage section 14. A pipe 61 is provided to guide the air into the tank 22. A cooling device 60 is also provided to cool the air flowing within the pipe 61 to approximately -40°C. The pipe 61 is connected to the tank 22 in such a way that it sprays water from a nozzle 32 inside the tank 22. Alternatively, the nozzle 32 may be configured to spray water in a direction along the side of the tank 22, in the same direction as the circumferential rotation of the air from the circulation path 24. The second circulation path 48 is connected to the tank 22 so that the air blown out from the second circulation path also rotates circumferentially in the same direction.

[0102] The inner surface of the tank 22 can also be treated with waterproofing, hydrophilic treatment, mirror finish, or other surface treatments. A vibration exciter 62 can also be provided to vibrate the tank 22, the first airlock 18a, or the circulation path 24. The vibration exciter 62 can also adopt a structure that vibrates the second circulation path 48.

[0103] Other structures, functions, and effects are omitted from the description, but the description of the first embodiment can be applied to the fifth embodiment.

[0104] (Sixth Implementation Method)

[0105] The sixth embodiment is an artificial weather chamber 50 equipped with the snowmaking device 10 described in the first embodiment. The snowmaking device 10 of the first embodiment is not limited to being installed in the artificial weather chamber 50; for example, it can also be used for snowfall both indoors and outdoors. In contrast, in the sixth embodiment, the snowmaking device 10 is used for snowfall in the artificial weather chamber 50.

[0106] like Figure 8 As shown, the artificial weather chamber 50 according to the sixth embodiment includes a snowmaking device 10 and a laboratory 52. ​​Furthermore, the same reference numerals are used for the same components as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0107] The test chamber 52 is configured to accommodate a sample (not shown) and to allow snowfall. The temperature inside the test chamber 52 is adjusted to, for example, around -20°C or around 5°C via an air conditioning unit (not shown).

[0108] The snowmaking device 10 includes an ice crystal generating unit 12, a snow storage unit 14, a regulating unit 18, and a snowfall unit 20. A humidifier 13 that generates fine water droplets is connected to the ice crystal generating unit 12. The humidifier 13 is located outside the test chamber 52. On the other hand, the ice crystal generating unit 12, the snow storage unit 14, the regulating unit 18, and the snowfall unit 20 are located inside the test chamber 52. The tank 22 of the ice crystal generating unit 12 and the snow storage unit 14, and the circulation path 24 may or may not be covered by heat insulation. Equipment that is not suitable for placement in extremely low temperature environments, such as the motor 54 that drives the blower 28 installed in the circulation path 24, is located outside the test chamber 52.

[0109] Alternatively, the ice crystal generating unit 12, snow storage unit 14, and regulating unit 18 may not be located within the test chamber 52. In this case, the ice crystal generating unit 12, snow storage unit 14, and regulating unit 18 can be located in a room formed independently of the test chamber 52, where the air is regulated. Furthermore, for example... Figure 9 As shown, the ice crystal generation unit 12, snow storage unit 14, and regulating unit 18 can also be arranged on the outside of the test chamber 52, and the ice crystal generation unit 12, snow storage unit 14, and regulating unit 18 adopt a structure covered by the heat insulation member 58. On the other hand, the snow outlet 20a of the snowfall unit 20 is arranged inside the test chamber 52. In this structure, it is not necessary to lower the temperature inside the test chamber 52 to a low temperature that does not affect snowmaking and snow storage, and snowfall tests can be conducted by adjusting the temperature inside the test chamber 52 to a temperature suitable for the environment required for the test of the sample. Therefore, the temperature inside the test chamber 52 can have a degree of freedom.

[0110] In the artificial weather chamber 50, instead of the ice crystal generation unit 12, a piping 61 can be installed to guide the air to the tank 22, and a cooling device 60 can be installed to cool the air flowing in the piping 61 to about -40°C. In this case, the piping 61 and the cooling device 60 can also be covered by a heat insulation component 58.

[0111] The snow-falling section 20 can be positioned above the area where the specimen is placed within the test chamber 52, or in a region offset from the area where the specimen is placed within the test chamber 52. Alternatively, the snow outlet 20a may not be configured to fall snow within the test chamber 52, but rather to be positioned, for example, to the side of the area where the specimen is placed, and to blow snow towards the specimen. It is also possible that snow is blown from the snow outlet 20a in a direction different from the specimen, rather than directly towards the specimen, and is ultimately supplied to the specimen. In this case, it can also be positioned above a region offset from the area where the specimen is placed, etc.

[0112] In addition, the descriptions of other structures, functions and effects are omitted, but the descriptions of the first embodiment can be applied to the sixth embodiment.

[0113] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative at all points and should not be considered as limiting. The present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from its spirit. For example, in the described embodiment, a blower 28 disposed in the circulation path 24 is used to circulate air within the tank 22, but this is not a limitation. A structure may also be adopted in which a blower is installed independently of the blower disposed in the circulation path 24, and air is circulated within the tank 22 using this blower.

[0114] In the described embodiment, a regulating unit 18 is used to adjust the flow rate and amount of snow supplied to the snowfall section 20, but the regulating unit 18 may be omitted. That is, a structure can be adopted that supplies a constant amount of snow instead of adjusting the flow rate of snow supplied to the snowfall section 20. In this case, a structure can also be adopted in which an on / off valve (or airlock) is provided in the supply path 34, and the on / off valve is closed when snow is stored in the snow storage section 14 and opened when snow is supplied to the snowfall section 20.

[0115] The regulating unit 18 is not limited to a structure having a first airlock 18a and a second airlock 18b. For example, the regulating unit 18 may also be composed of a single valve such as a three-way valve.

[0116] In the described embodiment, the adjusting unit 18 is configured with a first airlock 18a and a second airlock 18b. However, alternatively, the adjusting unit 18 may also have, for example, a structure with a first airlock 18a and a second airlock 18b. Figure 1The structure includes a first blower positioned at the first airlock 18a and a second blower positioned at the second airlock 18b. The first blower is driven when the snow-accompanying air is circulated in the snow storage section 14, and the second blower is driven when the snow-accompanying air is delivered from the snow storage section 14 to the snowfall section 20 through the supply path 34.

[0117] In the described embodiment, a structure is used to generate snow by arranging nozzles 32 in the snow storage section 14, but it is not limited to this structure. For example, a structure that generates snow by cutting ice can also be used, or a structure that generates snow by humidification can also be used. As a structure for generating snow by cutting ice, for example, water is sprayed in a mist onto a wall to form an ice film, and the ice film formed on the wall is cut with a scraper to generate snow. In addition, externally generated ice can be brought into the snow storage section 14 and cut within the snow storage section 14. On the other hand, the humidification method can be to introduce highly humid air into the snow storage section 14 from a humidifier (not shown), and the snow melts within the snow storage section 14. The humidifier can be any type of humidifier, such as a boiler type, a disc type, or an ultrasonic type.

[0118] Here, the implementation method is described in summary.

[0119] (1) The snowmaking device involved in the embodiment includes: a snow storage unit having a snowmaking function to generate snow and a snow storage function to keep the generated snow in a non-freezing state and store it; and a snowfall unit that introduces snow stored in the snow storage unit and causes the introduced snow to fall or be supplied to the sample body.

[0120] In the snowmaking apparatus according to the described embodiment, snow is generated in the snow storage section and stored while remaining in a non-frozen state. The snow stored in the snow storage section is then allowed to fall or be supplied to the sample via the snowfall section. That is, the amount of snow introduced from the snow storage section to the snowfall section per unit time can exceed the snowmaking capacity of the snow storage section per unit time. Furthermore, the total amount of snow that will fall or be supplied to the sample by the snowfall section within a specified time can be pre-stored in the snow storage section. Therefore, unlike structures where snow is created and snow falls sequentially during snowfall, the amount of snowfall or snow supply is not limited by the snowmaking capacity. Thus, in this snowmaking apparatus, the amount of snowfall or snow supply can be obtained without being limited by the snowmaking capacity per unit time. Moreover, since the snow is kept in a non-frozen state in the snow storage section, snowfall can occur from the snowfall section simply by introducing the snow stored in the snow storage section into the snowfall section. Furthermore, in the snow storage area, although the goal is to retain snow in a way that prevents it from freezing, this does not mean that all the snow is completely free of freezing. It is possible to maintain it in a non-frozen state, but sometimes the snow freezes locally. In short, the goal is simply to maintain the snow in the snow storage area in a state that allows for the supply of snow to the snowfall area.

[0121] (2) In the snowmaking device, the snow storage function can also be achieved by a mechanism that keeps the snow in the snow storage section in a non-freezing state.

[0122] In this structure, the snow stored in the snow storage section does not easily freeze. Therefore, the time it can remain in a snowy state can be extended. That is, a mechanism is provided in the snow storage section to not only temporarily prevent the snow stored in the snow storage section from freezing, but also to maintain the snow in a non-frozen state. Accordingly, it is possible to maintain the snow in a non-frozen state for a longer period of time. In the snow storage section, although the snow is maintained in a way that prevents it from freezing, it does not mean that all the snow is completely non-frozen. It is possible to maintain the snow in a non-frozen state through the aforementioned mechanism, but sometimes the snow freezes locally. In short, as long as the snow storage section is kept in a state where it can be supplied to the snowfall section by means of a mechanism that maintains the snow in a non-frozen state.

[0123] (3) Alternatively, the snow storage unit may include a tank with the snowmaking function and a blower, wherein the blower causes the air accompanying the snow to circulate inside the tank.

[0124] In this structure, an air blower operates, causing air to flow along with the snow inside the canister, which has a snowmaking function. Therefore, the snow inside the canister is continuously moving and stored in the snow storage section until it is introduced into the snowfall section. Thus, within the snow storage section, the snow can be kept in a non-freezing state for an extended period after snowmaking. Alternatively, the structure for flowing the air accompanying the snow can utilize the airflow momentum drawn into the canister to create the airflow.

[0125] (4) Alternatively, through the operation of the blower, the air accompanying the snow can flow in a circumferential rotation along the inner surface of the tank.

[0126] In this structure, the air accompanying the snow flows in a circumferential rotation along the inner surface of the can. Therefore, air can flow smoothly inside the can, and the snow can be easily kept in a non-freezing state.

[0127] (5) Snow can also be generated inside the tank, above the part of the airflow accompanying the snow, by the snowmaking function.

[0128] In this structure, the snow-generating section inside the can is located above the snow-flowing section. Large snowflakes tend to fall downwards, thus eliminating the need for an additional mechanism to transport them to the airflow section. Conversely, snow flowing in the airflow section is less likely to reach the snow-generating section. Therefore, large snowflakes can easily remain within the airflow section inside the can. Furthermore, the airflow within the airflow section of the can is less likely to affect the snow-generating section. This prevents the generated snow from being transported by the flowing air and flowing along the inner wall of the can, and also prevents the generated snow from adhering to the inner wall of the can.

[0129] (6) The snow storage unit may also include a circulation path connected to the tank at both ends and equipped with the blower. In this case, the snow storage function can also be achieved by the operation of the blower, which causes the snow in the tank to be transported by air and flow through the circulation path before returning to the tank.

[0130] In this structure, air flows through a circulation path via the operation of a blower. Snow inside the tank is thus transported by air and flows through the circulation path. The air accompanying the snow flowing through the circulation path returns to the tank. In this way, snow is transported by air and flows through the circulation path until it is introduced into the snowfall section, thus preventing the snow from freezing. Furthermore, the airflow force in the circulation path also acts on the tank, causing air inside the tank to flow along with the snow. Therefore, the snow is also kept from freezing inside the tank. Moreover, compared to structures where only the air accompanying the snow flows inside the tank, the size of the tank can be reduced.

[0131] (7) Snow can also be generated inside the tank, above the connection of the circulation path, by the snowmaking function.

[0132] In this structure, the snow generation section is located above the connection point of the circulation path. Large snowflakes tend to fall to the lower part of the generated snow, thus eliminating the need for an additional mechanism to transport large snowflakes below the connection point of the circulation path. On the other hand, snow flowing below the connection point of the circulation path is less likely to reach the snow-generating section. Therefore, large snowflakes can be easily contained in the lower part of the can. Furthermore, the airflow in the lower part of the can is less likely to affect the snow generation section. Therefore, the occurrence of generated snow flowing along the inner wall of the can through the air introduced into the can is suppressed, and the occurrence of generated snow adhering to the inner wall of the can is also suppressed.

[0133] (8) Alternatively, the circulation path can be connected to the tank in such a way that air flows in in a direction that is offset from the centerline of the tank.

[0134] In this structure, air accompanying the snow is blown into the tank, causing the air inside the tank to flow around the tank's centerline (circumferentially) along with the snow. That is, by adjusting the connection position of the circulation path within the tank, a structure that allows air circulation inside the tank can be achieved, thus eliminating the need for additional stirring mechanisms.

[0135] (9) It can also be: the blower causes the air accompanying the snow to flow in such a way that the air in the tank flows to the snowmaking part above it.

[0136] In this structure, fine snowflakes inside the tank are transported to the snowmaking section for growth. Larger snowflakes have difficulty flowing upwards, while finer snowflakes flow upwards easily. Therefore, it is primarily the finer snowflakes that are easily guided into the snowmaking section. Consequently, the number of incompletely grown snowflakes can be reduced.

[0137] (10) The snowmaking device may also further include: a separating component that divides the space inside the tank into a snowmaking space having the snowmaking function and a snow storage space having the snow storage function. In this case, the circulation path may also be used to draw air from the snow storage space in a state accompanying the snow.

[0138] In this structure, because the inner space of the tank is divided into a snowmaking space and a snow storage space by a partition, it is possible to prevent the snowmaking space, which is used to generate snow, from being affected by the airflow in the snow storage space. The snow in the snow storage space is transported by air and flows in a circulation path.

[0139] (11) The partition may also have an opening that allows snow generated in the snowmaking space to fall and be directed into the snow storage space.

[0140] In this structure, snow is generated in the snowmaking space inside the tank, and the generated snow is guided into the snow storage space through the opening of the partition component. Large snowflakes in the generated snow tend to fall to the bottom, therefore, there is no need to add a mechanism for conveying the snow generated inside the tank to the airflow section.

[0141] (12) The snowfall device may also include an adjustment unit for adjusting the amount of snow supplied from the snow storage unit to the snowfall unit. In this structure, the amount of snowfall in the snowfall unit can be changed. Therefore, the amount of snowfall can be varied.

[0142] (13) The snowfall device may also include: an adjustment unit that adjusts the amount of snow supplied from the snow storage unit to the snowfall unit, the adjustment unit adjusting the amount of air introduced into the snowfall unit from the air flowing in the circulation path accompanied by snow.

[0143] In this structure, air flows through a circulation path due to the operation of a blower. Snow inside the tank is thus transported by air and flows through the circulation path. The air accompanying the snow flowing through the circulation path returns to the tank. Therefore, the air accompanying the snow circulates through the circulation path. An adjustment unit adjusts the flow ratio from the circulation path so that at least a portion of the air accompanying the snow flowing through the circulation path is introduced into the snowfall section. In other words, by adjusting the ratio of snow circulating through the circulation path to snow introduced into the snowfall section, the amount of snow delivered to the snowfall section can be adjusted.

[0144] (14) The snow storage unit may also have nozzles that spray water in a mist, and use ice crystals generated by cooled air and water sprayed in a mist from the nozzles to create snow. In this structure, since snow is created by using ice crystals generated by cooled air and water sprayed in a mist from the nozzles in the snow storage unit, snow can easily grow. Therefore, snow can be created even without lowering the temperature inside the snow storage unit to extremely low temperatures such as -40°C.

[0145] (15) The snowfall device may also include a vibration unit that vibrates the snow storage unit. In this structure, snow adhesion to the snow storage unit can be suppressed.

[0146] (16) The artificial weather chamber involved in the embodiment includes: the snowmaking device; and a test chamber having a space for arranging a sample body, wherein the snowmaking device snows or supplies snow to the sample body in the test chamber.

[0147] (17) The snowfall method involved in the embodiment is a method of snowfall using the snowfall device, which includes the following steps: generating snow in the snow storage section of the snowfall device; keeping the generated snow in a non-freezing state and storing it in the snow storage section; introducing the snow in the snow storage section into the snowfall section; and snowfalling or supplying snow to the sample body through the snowfall section.

[0148] As explained above, it is possible to obtain snowfall or snow supply that is not limited by snowmaking capacity.

Claims

1. A snowmaking device, characterized in that... include: The snow storage unit has the functions of snowmaking (generating snow) and snow storage (keeping the generated snow in a non-freezing state and storing it). as well as The snowfall section receives snow stored in the snow storage section and causes the received snow to fall or be supplied to the sample body, wherein... The snow storage unit includes at least a tank with the snowmaking function, a blower, and a circulation path connected to the tank at both ends and equipped with the blower. The snow storage function includes: a structure in which snow is transported from top to bottom by air through the operation of the blower, and snow flowing out of the tank to the circulation path is returned to the tank, and snow in the tank that has grown to the point of falling due to gravity is circulated between the circulation path and the tank by the blower, and the snow is kept in a non-freezing state and stored.

2. The snowmaking device according to claim 1, characterized in that... Also includes: A supply path, connected to the circulation path and to the snowfall unit, wherein... The snow storage unit, in a state where the snow is not transported to the snowfall unit through the supply path or the airflow accompanying the snow is adjusted when the snow is transported to the snowfall unit through the supply path, uses the blower to circulate the snow in the tank, which has grown to the point of falling based on gravity, between the circulation path and the tank.

3. A snowmaking device, characterized in that... include: The snow storage unit has the functions of snowmaking (generating snow) and snow storage (keeping the generated snow in a non-freezing state and storing it). Supply route; as well as The snowfall section receives snow stored in the snow storage section via the supply path, and the received snow is either released or supplied to the sample body. The snow storage unit includes a tank with the snowmaking function, a blower, and a circulation path connected to the tank at both ends and equipped with the blower. The snow storage unit, in a state where the snow is not transported to the snowfall unit through the supply path or the airflow accompanying the snow is adjusted, uses the blower to circulate the snow in the tank, which has grown to the point of falling due to gravity, between the circulation path and the tank, keeping the snow in a non-freezing state and storing it.

4. The snowfall device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, As the blower operates, the air accompanying the snow flows in a circumferential rotation along the inner surface of the tank.

5. The snowfall device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, Snow is generated inside the can, above the area where airflow accompanies the snow, by the snowmaking function.

6. The snowfall device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The snow storage function is achieved by the operation of the blower, which causes the snow in the tank to be transported by air and then returned to the tank after flowing through the circulation path.

7. The snowfall device according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that, Snow is generated inside the tank, above the connection of the circulation path, by the snowmaking function.

8. The snowfall device according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that, The circulation path is connected to the tank in such a way that air flows in in a direction offset from the centerline of the tank.

9. The snowfall device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The blower causes air to circulate along with the snow by directing air from inside the canister to the snowmaking section above it.

10. The snowmaking device according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that... Also includes: A partition divides the inner space of the tank into a snowmaking space with the snowmaking function and a snow storage space with the snow storage function. The circulation path draws air from the snow storage space in a manner that accompanies the snow.

11. The snowmaking device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The separating component has an opening that allows snow generated in the snowmaking space to fall and be directed into the snow storage space.

12. The snowmaking device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that... Also includes: The regulating unit adjusts the amount of snow supplied from the snow storage unit to the snowfall unit.

13. The snowmaking device according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that... Also includes: The regulating unit adjusts the snow supply from the snow storage unit to the snowfall unit. The regulating unit adjusts the amount of air introduced into the snowfall unit from the air flowing in the circulation path accompanied by snow.

14. The snowfall device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The snow storage unit has nozzles that spray water in a mist and uses ice crystals generated by cooled air and water sprayed in a mist from the nozzles to make snow.

15. The snowmaking device according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that... Also includes: The excitation section causes the snow storage section to vibrate.

16. An artificial weather chamber, characterized in that... include: The snowmaking device according to any one of claims 1 to 15; as well as The laboratory has a space for preparing test specimens, in which... The snowmaking device either produces snow in the test chamber or supplies snow to the sample.

17. A snowfall method, comprising using the snowfall device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that... Includes the following steps: Snow is generated in the snow storage section of the snowfall device; Within the snow storage section, the generated snow is kept in a non-freezing state and stored. The snow in the snow storage section is directed into the snowfall section; and Snow is deposited or supplied to the sample via the snowfall section.

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