Food product storage device

Abstract

To provide a food product storage device capable of shortening measurement of properties of a food product.SOLUTION: A food product storage device 301 comprises a measuring unit 305 which has a predetermined internal space IS and in which at least a part of a target food product FT is exposed to the internal space IS, a gas measuring unit 133 that is installed inside the measuring unit 305 and detects characteristic values of gas derived from the target food product FT, and a control unit 100 that determines the state of the target food product FT on the basis of measurement results of the gas measuring unit 133, and one target product food FT is provided for one measuring unit 205.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a food storage device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a freshness determination device that uses a gas sensor to determine the freshness of fresh food, in which the gas sensor begins detection upon receiving a signal from a start switch, and the gas sensor detects gases originating from multiple fresh foods stored in a storage compartment or storage compartment drawer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-72344 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure provides a food storage device that can shorten the measurement of food characteristics. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The food storage device of the present disclosure comprises a measuring unit having a predetermined internal space in which at least a portion of the target food is exposed to the internal space, a gas measuring means installed inside the measuring unit for detecting characteristic values ​​of gas derived from the target food, and a control unit for determining the state of the target food based on the measurement results of the gas measuring means, and there is one target food per measuring unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The food storage device of the present disclosure can shorten the measurement of food characteristics. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a food storage device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the lid member 3 of the food storage device 1. [Figure 3] A block diagram showing the control configuration of the food storage device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Flowchart showing the operation of the food storage device regarding the measurement of target food [Figure 5] A flowchart showing the operation of the food storage device regarding the measurement of target food in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of a food storage device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 7] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of a food storage device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] A block diagram showing the control configuration of a food storage device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a timing chart showing the operation of the gas measuring unit and the fan in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a timing chart showing the operation of the gas measuring unit and the fan in the second embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the food storage device regarding the measurement of target food in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of a food storage device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 13] A block diagram showing the control configuration of a food storage device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 14] A flowchart showing the operation of the food storage device regarding the measurement of target food in embodiment 3. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a food holding portion according to a modification of the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] (Findings that formed the basis of this disclosure) At the time when the inventors came up with the idea for the present disclosure, there was a technology that used a gas sensor that detects multiple gas components derived from food within a measuring unit as a means for detecting the quality of food, such as its freshness and ripeness. However, the inventors discovered that the above-mentioned conventional technology, which is designed to store multiple target foods in the measuring unit, has a problem in that the measuring unit is large and it takes a long time to detect gas originating from the target foods. Specifically, the internal space of the food storage device is large, and the gas concentration in the internal space is likely to be low. In order to solve this problem, the inventors have come up with the subject matter of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure provides a food storage device that can shorten the measurement of food characteristics.

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, in some cases, unnecessary detailed descriptions may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters or redundant descriptions of substantially the same configurations may be omitted. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0010] (Embodiment 1) [1-1.Configuration] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of food storage device 1 in embodiment 1. Fig. 2 is a plan view of lid member 3 of food storage device 1. With lid member 3 facing upward relative to device body 2, Fig. 2 is a plan view viewed from below. In other words, Fig. 2 shows the back surface of lid member 3. The food storage device 1 of embodiment 1 detects characteristics such as the ripeness, freshness, and type of target food FT while transporting or temporarily storing multiple target foods FT. The user is notified of the status of the target foods FT after transportation, etc., and can decide how to handle them, such as when to sell or use them, depending on the status of each target food FT. Therefore, by making effective use of the time during food distribution, it is possible to individually decide how to handle the target foods FT, which can be useful for reducing food waste, etc. Below, an example of detecting the ripeness of the target foods FT will be explained. In FIG. 1, fruit is used as an example of the target foods FT.

[0011] The food storage device 1 is composed of a box-shaped device main body 2 and a lid member 3 that closes the device main body 2. The internal space IS of the device main body 2 is provided with partition plates 5 in a lattice pattern. Each internal space IS separated by the partition plates 5 constitutes a measurement section 4 that contains one target food FT (described below). The target food FT is exposed to the internal space IS.

[0012] The upper end of the partition plate 5 is on approximately the same plane as the upper end of the device body 2. As a result, when the cover member 3 is attached to the device body 2, the measurement unit 4 is approximately sealed. In other words, the measurement unit 4 is made up of the partition plate 5, the lower surface of the device body 2, and the back surface of the cover member 3 on which the gas measurement unit 133 is installed. One gas measuring unit 133 is disposed on the rear surface of the lid member 3 at each location corresponding to the multiple measuring units 4. In Figure 2, the position of the partition plate 5 when the device main body 2 is closed with the lid member 3 is indicated by a dashed line. In this embodiment, the food storage device 1 has 25 measuring units 4 and can store 25 target foods FT, but the number of measuring units 4 is not limited to this and can be changed to any number greater than or equal to two.

[0013] The gas measurement unit 133 measures the characteristic values ​​of the gas derived from the target food FT. The food storage device 1 determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results of the gas measurement unit 133. The state of the target food FT can be rephrased as the characteristics of the target food FT. For example, the characteristics of the target food FT are quantitative characteristics. Specific examples include the freshness of fresh produce, the ripeness of fruit or meat, the degree of fermentation progress of fermented foods, and the degree to which the aroma of coffee beans remains after roasting. The characteristics of the target food FT may also be qualitative characteristics. Specific examples include identifying the type of fruit when the target food FT is fruit, and classifying beverages such as sake and wine based on their flavor. Therefore, the target food FT that the food storage device 1 measures may be any food that generates some kind of gas and whose gas derived from the target food FT can be measured by the food storage device 1. Furthermore, the target food FT is preferably a food in which the components and characteristic values ​​of the gas derived from the target food FT correlate with the state of the target food FT. As described above, examples of the target food FT include fresh foods, beverages, fermented foods, and other processed foods. In this embodiment and each of the embodiments and modifications described below, an example will be described in which fruit is used as the target food FT.

[0014] Examples of gases measured by the gas measuring unit 133 include esters, aldehydes, alcohols, carbon dioxide, ethylene, and other gases. The gas measuring unit 133 may be configured to measure one type of gas, or may be configured to measure characteristic values ​​of multiple gases. The gas measuring unit 133 is an example of a gas measuring means.

[0015] In the food storage device 1, the internal volume of the measuring unit 4 is an important factor in shortening the detection time for measuring the gas characteristic values. The smaller the internal volume, as long as the target food FT can be stored, the more suitable it is for shortening the detection time. This is because the smaller the internal volume, the more quickly the change in the measurement results detected by the gas measuring unit 133 occurs when gas originating from the target food FT is released from the target food FT, making it possible to perform the ripeness determination described below in a shorter time. In addition, the smaller the internal volume, the higher the gas concentration, making it less likely that the gas concentration will fall below the lower detection limit of the gas measuring unit 133, and thus easier to improve detection accuracy. Furthermore, if a user accidentally stores more than one target food in one measuring unit 4, there is a risk that the ripeness determination will not be performed appropriately. In this embodiment, the measuring unit 4 is partitioned by a partition plate 5 to prevent more than one target food FT from being stored therein, thereby reducing this risk. A note on how to count "one" in the target food FT. In the case of fruit, one is usually considered to be one individual fruit. However, if the ripeness and ripening characteristics are relatively consistent within the same shipping lot, it is practically acceptable to consider a package containing multiple individuals from the same lot as one. For example, kiwis, pears, peaches, etc. distributed in Japan have relatively little variation within a single package, so one package can be treated as one. On the other hand, imported avocados, etc., have relatively large variations in ripeness even within the same shipping lot, so proper detection will not be possible unless each individual is treated as one. The same approach applies to other foods such as meat, fish, and vegetables. If a package contains multiple individuals with similar characteristics, it is acceptable to consider it as one.

[0016] The lid member 3 is formed in a plate shape from a material such as resin. The lid member 3 is formed with an electrical component case 6 that houses components (see FIG. 3) related to the control of the food storage device 1. The electrical component case 6 also houses a battery (not shown) and the like.

[0017] The target food FT often contains a lot of water. The lid member 3 prevents liquid (e.g., fruit juice) dripping from the target food FT from contaminating the gas measuring unit 133. Furthermore, because the electrical equipment case 6 is substantially sealed, it is possible to prevent the liquid from entering the electrical equipment case 6 and causing an electrical short circuit. If the device body 2 is made of resin, the food storage device 1 can be reused. If the device body 2 is made of a heat-insulating material, deterioration of the target food FT due to temperature changes in the external space can be prevented. Furthermore, if the device body 2 is made of a paper material such as cardboard, the lid member 3 can be reused, and the device body 2 can be disposed of or recycled, reducing the effort required for collection or replacement.

[0018] Furthermore, by providing the electrical component case 6 inside the lid member 3, the top surface of the lid member 3 is formed to be substantially smooth, making it easy to stack a plurality of food storage devices 1. One gas measuring unit 133 is provided for one measuring unit 4. Therefore, the orientation of the cover member 3 relative to the device body 2 is fixed. The cover member 3 and the device body 2 are each provided with a mark 7 for positioning. This makes it easy for the user to determine the orientation when attaching the cover member 3.

[0019] The electrical component case 6 may be formed to bulge outward from the cover member 3 in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. In this case, a recessed portion corresponding to the shape of the electrical component case 6 may be formed on the outer bottom surface of the device body 2. With this configuration, when multiple food storage devices 1 are stacked, the electrical component case 6 and the recessed portion fit together, making it easier to stack multiple food storage devices 1 and preventing the stacked food storage devices 1 from shifting.

[0020] Next, we will explain the control configuration of food storage device 1. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of food storage device 1 in embodiment 1. The food storage device 1 includes a control unit 100. The control unit 100 includes a processor 110, which is a processor that executes programs such as a CPU or an MPU, and a memory 120, and controls each part of the food storage device 1. The control unit 100 executes various processes through cooperation of hardware and software, such that the processor 110 reads out a program 121 stored in the memory 120 and executes the process.

[0021] The memory 120 has a storage area for storing programs executed by the processor 110 and data processed by the processor 110. The memory 120 stores control programs executed by the processor 110, a determination model (described later), setting data, measurement data, and various other data. The memory 120 has a nonvolatile storage area for nonvolatilely storing programs and data. The memory 120 may also have a volatile storage area and constitute a work area for temporarily storing programs executed by the processor 110 and data to be processed.

[0022] Connected to the control unit 100 are a communication unit 131, a lid detection unit 132, and a gas measurement unit 133 corresponding in number to the measurement units 4. The control unit 100 controls the communication unit 131, the lid detection unit 132, and the gas measurement unit 133.

[0023] The communication unit 131 is a communication device having a transmitter and a receiver, and performs short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The communication unit 131 performs wireless data communication with the external terminal 10. The communication unit 131 may be connected to the external terminal 10 via a communication network. The communication unit 131 transmits data indicating the measurement results of the gas measurement unit 133 and the determination results of the control unit 100 (described later) to the external terminal under the control of the control unit 100. For example, the communication unit 131 may transmit data including information to be displayed on a display unit such as a display of the external terminal 10 by the control unit 100, and display the data on the display screen of the external terminal 10. The communication unit 131 receives data transmitted by the external terminal 10 and outputs the data to the control unit 100. For example, the communication unit 131 receives data indicating input contents input by a user to the external terminal 10 and outputs the data to the control unit 100. In this case, the food storage device 1 can perform operations based on information input to the external terminal 10, and the external terminal 10 can be used as an input device. The external terminal 10 is, for example, a portable computer such as a tablet computer or a smartphone.

[0024] The lid detector 132 detects whether the lid member 3 is attached to the device body 2. The lid detector 132 outputs a lid state signal to the controller 100 indicating whether the lid member 3 is detached and in an open state, or attached and in a closed state. The lid detector 132 is, for example, an air pressure sensor. In this case, the lid detector 132 detects the air pressure inside the measurement unit 4 and detects whether the lid member 3 is in an open state or a closed state from a certain change in air pressure. The lid detector 132 is, for example, an illuminance sensor. In this case, the lid detector 132 detects a change in illuminance inside the measurement unit 4. Furthermore, for example, the lid detector 132 is a switch provided at a position on the lid member 3 that abuts against the device body 2. In this case, the lid detector 132 detects whether the switch is in a pressed state.

[0025] The gas measuring unit 133 includes a sensor element and a temperature adjusting unit (not shown). The sensor element measures a characteristic value of a gas. Specifically, an example of the sensor element is a semiconductor gas sensor whose element surface is made of metal oxide (MOx). The semiconductor gas sensor detects a change in the electrical resistance of the element surface due to the adhesion of gas to the element surface, and outputs a characteristic value related to the gas concentration as a measurement value. When a large amount of gas adheres to the element surface, the metal oxide on the element surface is reduced, causing a decrease in electrical resistance. Therefore, the higher the gas concentration, the lower the measured electrical resistance value. The sensor element may have various configurations, such as a system that uses a piezoelectric element to detect a change in vibration frequency due to adsorbed gas, a system that uses a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) element to detect a change in deflection due to adsorbed gas, or a system that detects a signal due to an electrochemical reaction with gas.

[0026] The temperature adjustment unit has a function of adjusting the temperature of the sensor element. The temperature adjustment unit includes, for example, a heater that heats the surface of the sensor element. The temperature adjustment unit generates and stops heat generation under the control of the control unit 100. The temperature adjustment unit may include a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the sensor element. The temperature sensor may be, for example, a thermistor or a thermocouple.

[0027] When the control unit 100 causes the gas measurement unit 133 to perform a measurement, the control unit 100 stores the data obtained by the measurement as measurement data in the memory 120. The measurement data may, for example, be stored as a measurement value, which is the measurement result of the sensor element, associated with the date and time when the measurement was performed. Note that the measurement result may be a single measurement value at a certain point in time, or multiple measurement values ​​over a certain period of time. The measurement data may also be data that associates the measurement result of the sensor element with measurement conditions. The measurement conditions include, for example, the temperature of the sensor element at the time of measurement. The measurement conditions may include any of the temperature of the sensor element when the sensor element performs a measurement operation, the operating voltage of the sensor element, the frequency of the operating voltage of the sensor element, the duration of current flow through the sensor element, and the frequency of current flow through the sensor element.

[0028] The control unit 100 determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results of the gas measurement unit 133. The control unit 100 determines the state of the target food FT by inputting the measurement results of the gas measurement unit 133 into, for example, a function, program, or other algorithm, and outputs the determination result. The control unit 100 may refer to past measurement results included in the measurement data in the process of determining the state of the target food FT.

[0029] The control unit 100 of this embodiment determines the state of the target food FT using a determination model stored in the memory 120. The determination model is a trained machine learning model that has previously learned the correlation between the measurement results of the gas measurement unit 133, the measurement conditions, and the state of the target food FT, and is a so-called AI (Artificial Intelligence). The control unit 100 executes the determination model and estimates the state of the target food FT by providing the measurement results and measurement conditions of the gas measurement unit 133 to the determination model.

[0030] The learning data used to train the judgment model is, for example, data in which the characteristic values ​​of the gas emitted by the target food FT are used as explanatory variables and the ripeness or other food characteristic values ​​of the representative food that is the target food FT are used as objective variables.

[0031] As described above, in the food storage device 1, various foods can be used as the target food FT. For target food FT, the state of which changes over time can be referred to as freshness or ripeness. Vegetables and fruits change from an immature state to a state suitable for eating, and in some cases to a state that is optimal for eating, and then to a state that is unsuitable for eating. Meat and seafood change from a highly fresh state to a state where freshness has decreased but is still edible, and then to a state that is unsuitable for eating. This change in the target food FT is called maturation or ripening, and the state of the target food FT during this change will be referred to as ripeness below. Ripeness is expressed as a numerical value, with a higher numerical value indicating more advanced maturation or ripening. Hereinafter, the state in which the target food FT has matured or ripened to a state suitable for eating, and the ripeness at that time, will be referred to as suitable ripeness.

[0032] The control unit 100 determines the ripeness of the target food FT from the measurement results of the gas measurement unit 133. The control unit 100 may also be configured to be able to predict changes in the ripeness of the target food FT. That is, the control unit 100 may be configured to be able to predict the ripeness suitable for eating or the time when the target food FT will reach the appropriate ripeness, for a target food FT that is not yet ripe enough to reach the appropriate ripeness. The control unit 100 may also have a function to estimate the conditions necessary to increase the ripeness of the target food FT that is not yet ripe enough to reach the appropriate ripeness.

[0033] [1-2. Operation] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the food storage device 1 regarding the measurement of the target food FT. Steps SA1 to SA11 are executed by the control unit 100. When control unit 100 receives a lid state signal indicating an open state from lid detection unit 132 (step SA1), it activates gas measurement unit 133 (step SA2). Specifically, the control unit 100 performs a warm-up operation by controlling the temperature adjustment unit of the gas measuring unit 133 to adjust the temperature of the gas measuring unit 133. By this warm-up operation, the adsorption state between the surface of the sensor element of the gas measuring unit 133 and the air molecules in the measuring unit 4 reaches equilibrium.

[0034] Next, when control unit 100 receives a lid state signal indicating the closed state from lid detection unit 132 (step SA3), it starts measurement by gas measurement unit 133, continues measurement for a predetermined period at a predetermined cycle, adopts the first measurement value as a reference value, and stores it in memory 120 (step SA4). Note that in step SA4, the measurement results for the predetermined time are also stored in memory 120.

[0035] The transition from step SA2 to step SA3 occurs, for example, when the user places the target food FT in the measurement unit 4 and closes the lid member 3. The effect of using the measurement value by the gas measurement unit 133 immediately after the lid member 3 is closed in steps SA3 and SA4 as the reference value will be described. While the lid member 3 is open, air from the external space fills the internal space IS, and the concentration of gas originating from the target food FT is significantly lower than after the lid member 3 is closed. Therefore, the air flow near the surface of the sensor element of the gas measurement unit 133 is relatively unstable, and the measurement value is relatively significantly affected by fluctuations in air pressure, etc., making it easy for the measurement value to vary. On the other hand, immediately after the lid member 3 is closed, gas originating from the target food FT is contained in the measurement unit 4, and the measurement value is stable and highly reproducible. Therefore, using this as the reference value can improve the reliability of the ripeness determination results.

[0036] Next, the control unit 100 corrects the measurement result based on the measurement result obtained in step SA4, determines the ripeness of the target food FT (step SA5), and stores the determination result in the memory 120 (step SA6). Note that, when dividing the ripeness into three stages in ascending order, the determination result is either level 1, level 2, or level 3. Note that the ripeness stages may be further subdivided.

[0037] The correction of the measurement results by the control unit 100 in step SA5 will be described. The gas measurement unit 133 repeatedly performs measurements at a predetermined cycle for a predetermined period of time. The control unit 100 obtains a corrected measurement value by correcting the measurement value at each measurement timing with the reference value obtained in step SA4. The method for correcting the measurement value using the reference value will be explained using an example in which the measurement result of the gas measurement unit 133 includes a resistance value. The unit of resistance is Ω. The difference obtained by subtracting the logarithm of the reference value from the logarithm of the resistance at each measurement timing is the corrected measurement value. Alternatively, the quotient obtained by dividing the resistance value at each measurement timing by the resistance value that is a reference value may be used as the corrected measurement value. Furthermore, by performing such a correction, it is possible to suppress the influence of individual differences in the gas measurement unit 133 and changes over time on the surface of the sensor element of the gas measurement unit 133, thereby widening the scope of application of the judgment by the control unit 100. In this way, the control unit 100 judges the ripeness of the target food FT based on the measurement results corrected using the reference value. Furthermore, the control unit 100 may perform zero point correction on the measurement results at each measurement timing using a reference value.

[0038] Next, the control unit 100 stops the gas measuring unit 133 (step SA7). Next, the control unit 100 establishes communication between the user's external terminal 10 and the food storage device 1 via the communication unit 131 (step SA8), and transmits the determination result stored in the memory 120 to the external terminal 10 (step SA9). When the communication unit 131 receives a signal from the external terminal 10 indicating that the determination result has been stored (step SA10), it stops the operation of the control unit 100 (step SA11).

[0039] The determination of the ripeness by the control unit 100 in step SA5 is made based on a plurality of measurements taken over a predetermined period of time, and the advantages of this will be described below. After the target food FT is stored in the substantially sealed measuring unit 4, the change over time in the diffusion of gas originating from the target food FT may characteristically represent the ripeness of the target food FT. For example, it is known that a certain target food FT may release the largest amount of gas at the time when the ripeness is high. Furthermore, even if the target food FT is not limited to ripeness and releases a specific gas that is a similar component, when the target food FT is, for example, not ripe, the specific gas is contained in the cell membrane of the target food FT, so the change in diffusion over time is not large. On the other hand, when the target food FT is, for example, ripe, the specific gas leaks out of the cell membrane, so the change in diffusion over time is large. An example of a target food FT that shows this tendency is fresh food, and in this case, the degree of ripeness can also be rephrased as the degree of freshness, as mentioned above.

[0040] In this way, the accuracy of the ripeness determination is improved by determining the ripeness based on multiple measurements over a predetermined period of time. In this case, a time-series algorithm that has been trained to learn changes in ripeness over a predetermined period of time is used as the determination model.

[0041] (Modification of the first embodiment) Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of food storage device 1 in a modified example. The overall operation shown in Figure 5 replaces steps SA4 and SA5 shown in Figure 4. That is, after step SA3 is completed, control unit 100 causes food storage device 1 to execute the operation shown in Figure 5, and after completion of this operation, the process proceeds to step SA6.

[0042] After step SA3 is completed, control unit 100 starts measurement by gas measurement unit 133 (step SB1), and stores the first measurement value in memory 120 as a reference value (step SB2).

[0043] Next, at a predetermined interval, the control unit 100 causes the gas measurement unit 133 to measure, acquires the measurement value, and calculates the probability that the target food FT is at each stage of ripeness based on the corrected value corrected with the reference value (step SB3). For example, if three stages of ripeness are set, in step SB3 the control unit 100 calculates the probability X% that the target food FT is at level 1 of ripeness, Y% that it is at level 2, and Z% that it is at level 3. These probabilities X, Y, and Z are called the probabilities of each stage.

[0044] Next, the control unit 100 accumulates the probabilities of each stage (step SB4). Accumulation in step SB4 means taking the sum of the probabilities of each past stage and the probability of each current stage for each stage.

[0045] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not there is a stage among the accumulated probabilities of each stage that is equal to or greater than a predetermined reference value (step SB5). If the control unit 100 determines that there is a stage where the ripeness is equal to or greater than the predetermined reference value (step SB5: YES), it determines that the ripeness of the target food FT is equal to or greater than the predetermined reference value (step SB6).

[0046] If the control unit 100 determines that there is no stage where the value is equal to or greater than the predetermined judgment criterion value (step SB5: NO), it determines whether a predetermined period has elapsed (step SB7), and if the predetermined period has not elapsed (step SB7: NO), it proceeds to step SB3. If the control unit 100 determines that the predetermined period has elapsed (step SB7: YES), it determines that the ripeness of the target food FT cannot be determined (step SB8). After completing step SB6 or step SB8, the control unit 100 proceeds to step SA6 shown in FIG.

[0047] Thus, in this modified example, the determination result is either ripeness level 1, level 2, level 3, or indeterminable. In this modified example, the control unit 100 causes the gas measurement unit 133 to continue measuring for a predetermined period of time at a predetermined cycle, as in FIG. 4. However, the control unit 100 determines the ripeness of the target food FT based on a single measurement value. This allows the ripeness to be determined without the passage of a predetermined time or without completing all the measurements that are performed at a predetermined cycle within a predetermined time, as explained in FIG. 4, thereby shortening the time required to determine the ripeness.

[0048] [1-3.Effects] As described above, the food storage device 1 in embodiment 1 has a predetermined internal space IS, a measuring unit 4 in which at least a portion of the target food FT is exposed to the internal space IS, a gas measuring unit 133 installed inside the measuring unit 4 and detecting the characteristic values ​​of the gas originating from the target food FT, and a control unit 100 that determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results of the gas measuring unit 133, and there is one target food FT for one measuring unit 4. According to this configuration, two or more target foods FT are not stored in one measurement unit 4, and the volume of one measurement unit 4 can be reduced. Therefore, the measurement time for the characteristics of the food can be shortened.

[0049] The measuring unit 4 is composed of a box-shaped device main body 2 and a lid member 3, and the device main body 2 accommodates a plurality of target foods FT. According to this configuration, two or more target foods FT cannot be stored in one measuring unit 4, the volume of one measuring unit 4 can be reduced, and moreover, it is possible to provide multiple measuring units 4. This makes it possible to measure the characteristics of multiple target foods FT using one food storage device 1.

[0050] (Embodiment 2) [2-1.Configuration] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing an overview of food storage device 201 in embodiment 2. Figure 6 shows the case where lid member 203 is in an open state. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an overview of food storage device 201 in embodiment 2. Figure 7 shows the case where lid member 203 is in a closed state.

[0051] Food storage device 201 is composed of a box-shaped device body 202, a cover member 203 that closes device body 202, and a storage section 204 provided on the side of device body 202. The food storage device 201 is provided with one measuring unit 205 and one gas measuring unit 133 for one target food item FT. The internal space IS of the device body 202 is configured as the measuring section 205. That is, the inside of the device body 202 and the lid member 203 configure the measuring section 205 of the food storage device 1.

[0052] The lid member 203 is attached to the device body 202 via a hinge 203A so as to be able to open and close. When closed, the lid member 203 bulges upward and is formed in a substantially hemispherical shape. This allows target food FT that protrudes from the top end of the device body 202 to be stored in the measuring unit 205. The food storage device 1 in the second embodiment is suitable for large-sized target food FT (e.g., melon). In the food storage device 201 of this embodiment, in order to shorten the detection time, it is preferable that the volume of the measuring unit 205 is as small as or smaller than the volume of the target food FT. The smaller the volume, the shorter the concentration of the gas originating from the target food FT will increase to a detectable concentration, thereby shortening the time required to determine the ripeness. The volume of the measuring unit 205 is such that it can accommodate only one target food FT, not two or more target foods FT.

[0053] At least a portion of lid member 203 is made of a transparent material, which allows the interior of food storage device 1 to be seen from the outside. The transparent material is, for example, transparent resin or glass.

[0054] The cover member 203 has an apparatus vent 206 formed on its side, and a valve 207 that covers the apparatus vent 206 is provided inside the cover member 203. The measurement unit 205 is in communication with the outside via the apparatus vent 206. The valve 207 is, for example, a cover member that is provided so as to be able to open and close freely using a hinge. The valve 207 has the function of restricting the inflow of air into the measurement unit 205 from the outside when the measurement unit 205 is at atmospheric pressure, and opening when the pressure in the measurement unit 205 is reduced by being pushed by the inflowing air, thereby connecting the measurement unit 205 to the outside.

[0055] One gas measuring unit 133 is provided at a position facing the device vent hole 206 of the cover member 203, that is, on the hinge 203A side.

[0056] The storage unit 204 is provided on the side of the device main body 202 on the hinge 203A side. A storage unit vent 208 is formed in a wall 211 separating the storage unit 204 and the device main body 202, and a second valve 209 is provided to cover the storage unit vent 208. The storage unit 204 is in communication with the measurement unit 205 via the storage unit vent 208. The second valve 209 is, for example, a cover member that is provided so as to be able to open and close freely using a hinge. The second valve 209 has the function of restricting the inflow of air from the measurement unit 205 when the pressure difference between the measurement unit 205 and the storage unit 204 is small, and when the pressure in the storage unit 204 is reduced, the second valve 209 is pushed by the inflowing air to open, thereby connecting the measurement unit 205 and the storage unit 204.

[0057] The storage unit 204 is provided with a fan 210 on its side. The fan 210 exhausts air from the storage unit 204, thereby reducing the pressure in the storage unit 204 and ultimately reducing the pressure in the measurement unit 205. The fan 210 can ventilate the storage unit 204 or the measurement unit 205. The fan 210 is an example of a pressure reducing means. The fan 210 reduces the pressure in the measuring unit 205, which makes it easier for gas originating from the target food FT to be extracted from the target food FT. This makes it possible to speed up the increase in concentration of the gas originating from the target food FT, thereby shortening the detection time.

[0058] 7, when the fan 210 is operated, outside air flows into the measuring section 205 through the device vent 206 and is exhausted through the storage section vent 208. The air flow is indicated by arrow W. A valve 207 provided downstream of the device vent 206 and the storage section vent 208 opens while the fan 210 is operating and closes when the fan 210 stops. When the fan 210 is stopped, the valve 207 closes, improving the sealing of the measuring section 205 and making it easier for the concentration of gas generated from the target food FT to increase.

[0059] Furthermore, the storage section 204 and the measurement section 205 are separated by a wall 211. This allows the area of ​​the opening provided in the measurement section 205 to be reduced, and the degree of sealing of the measurement section 205 can be increased. In this way, the time until the concentration of the gas generated from the target food FT increases after the measuring unit 205 is ventilated can be shortened. Furthermore, if there is an air flow around the gas measuring unit 133 when the gas measuring unit 133 is operating, the temperature adjusted by the temperature adjustment unit of the gas measuring unit 133 may be affected, which may reduce the reliability of the measurement results. In the second embodiment, the measurement value immediately after the fan 210 stops is used as the reference value. In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the gas measuring unit 133 is disposed in the cover member 203, away from the path of the air flow that flows from the device vent 206 toward the storage unit vent 208. These configurations stabilize the reference value.

[0060] Next, we will explain the control configuration of food storage device 201. Figure 8 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of food storage device 201 in embodiment 2. The same components as in Figure 3 are given the same reference numerals and explanations will be omitted. The control unit 100 is connected to the gas measurement unit 133, the notification unit 231, the notification activation unit 232, the input unit 233, and the fan 210.

[0061] The notification activation unit 232 is a means for activating the notification unit 231, which will be described later. The notification activation unit 232 is, for example, a human presence sensor, and when the presence of a user is detected, the notification unit 231 is activated. The notification activation unit 232 may also be a tactile switch, and when the user presses the tactile switch, the notification unit 231 is activated. The activation of the notification unit 231 may also be triggered by the control unit 100 outputting a determination result. The notification activation unit 232 is provided on the side of the device body 202 opposite the storage unit 204. It can also be said that the notification activation unit 232 is provided in the front of the device body 202. The cover member 203 is provided so that it can be opened and closed by the user from the front to the rear, making it easy to access the notification activation unit 232 together with the cover member 203.

[0062] The notification unit 231 is, for example, a full-color LED (Light-Emitting Diode). By matching the ripeness of the target food FT with the color impression, the ripeness information notified to the user can be more intuitively notified. For example, if the notification unit 231 notifies immature food FT with green, almost ripe with orange, ripe with red, and overripe with brown, even young users who cannot read or write can easily determine when the target food FT is ripe to eat. Furthermore, for example, by further subdividing green into various green colors to indicate different degrees of immatureness, the notification unit 231 can intuitively notify the time required until the target food FT is ripe, i.e., until it is ready to eat. When the target food FT is fruit, the desired ripeness level may vary greatly depending on each user's preferences. However, by allowing users to memorize and determine the corresponding ripeness level and color according to their preferences, the effort of configuring notification settings according to each user's preferences can be eliminated. Furthermore, in this case, notification settings do not need to be changed for each user, so there is no inconvenience even when the food storage device 201 is used jointly by multiple users. In addition, if the notification unit 231 is a speaker, the same effect as described above can be achieved by using tone or pitch, and in this case, ripeness information can be effectively notified to visually impaired users as well. Notification unit 231 is provided inside cover member 203 at a position opposite hinge 203A.

[0063] The input unit 233 is a means for outputting a start signal as a trigger for starting the operation of determining the state of the target food FT by the food storage device 201, or an end signal for ending the operation. The input unit 233 is, for example, a switch. When the user presses the switch, the start signal or end signal can be output. The input unit 233 is provided inside the lid member 203.

[0064] The input unit 233 may be a tactile switch or weight sensor that detects a load, or may be a distance measuring sensor. In this case, the input unit 233 detects that the target food FT is present in the measuring unit 205. The input unit 233 outputs a start signal when the target food FT is stored in the measuring unit 205, and outputs an end signal when the target food FT is removed. The target food FT being continuously stored means that the target food FT has been continuously stored since the start signal was output without the end signal being output.

[0065] [2-1-1. Timing chart] 9 and 10 are timing charts showing the operation of the gas measuring unit 133 and the fan 210 in embodiment 2. Fig. 9 is a timing chart of the first measurement after the target food FT is stored in the measuring unit 205, and Fig. 10 is a timing chart of the second and subsequent measurements. The operation (ON) and stop (OFF) of the fan 210 and the operation (ON) and stop (OFF) of the gas measuring unit 133 are controlled by the control unit 100.

[0066] First, the first measurement will be described. As shown in Fig. 9, at time T1, which is the time when the start signal is output, the fan 210 does not operate during the first measurement, but the gas measuring unit 133 operates. Next, at time point A, which is immediately after time T2, which is the time period t1 after time T1, measurement is performed by the gas measuring unit 133. Next, at time T3, which is the time period t2 after time T2, the gas measuring unit 133 is stopped. Specifically, the temperature adjustment unit of the gas measuring unit 133 is stopped, and measurement is stopped.

[0067] The period t1 corresponds to the time required for the warm-up operation described in embodiment 1. Although it depends on the type of sensor element, if the element surface is made of metal oxide, approximately 1 to 15 minutes is suitable.

[0068] Next, the second and subsequent measurements will be described. As shown in Fig. 10, at time T4, which is the time when the start signal is output, the fan 210 is operated, but the gas measuring unit 133 is not operated. Next, at time T5, which is a period t3 after time T4, the gas measuring unit 133 is operated. Specifically, the temperature adjustment unit of the gas measuring unit 133 adjusts the temperature of the sensor element.

[0069] Next, at time T6, a period t1 after time T5, the fan 210 is stopped. As described in FIG. 9, period t1 corresponds to the warm-up period. However, from the second measurement onward, the surface of the sensor element of the gas measuring unit 133 is adsorbed not only with the air in the external space but also with gas originating from the target food FT. Therefore, from the viewpoint of the reliability of the measurement results, the warm-up period alone is insufficient. This is because the target food FT continues to be stored, and gas originating from the target food FT remains within the measuring unit 205. By ventilating the measuring unit 205 and the storage unit 204 with the fan 210 from time T4 to time T6, the gas adsorbed on the surface of the sensor element of the gas measuring unit 133 can be removed. As described above, by providing the device vent 206 and the storage unit vent 208 (see FIGS. 6 and 7), the pressure in the measuring unit 205 and the storage unit 204 can be reduced by operating the fan 210, thereby enabling ventilation. Furthermore, the ventilation can reduce the humidity in the measurement unit 205, which can suppress the growth of microorganisms in the target food FT.

[0070] Furthermore, the fan 210 is operated only for the period t3+t1, and the gas measuring unit 133 is warmed up only for the period t1. In this way, when the fan 210 is operated, even if the warm-up operation of the gas measuring unit 133 starts with a delay from the start of operation of the fan 210, the gas adsorbed on the surface of the sensor element of the gas measuring unit 133 can be sufficiently removed.

[0071] At time point A immediately after time T6, measurement is performed by gas measuring unit 133. Next, at time T7 when period t2 has elapsed since time T6, gas measuring unit 133 is stopped.

[0072] The control unit 100 acquires the measurement value measured by the gas measurement unit 133 at time point A as a reference value. That is, the food storage device 201 in embodiment 2 determines ripeness using a reference value based on the first measurement result immediately after the fan 210 is stopped in the second or subsequent measurements. Immediately after the fan 210 is stopped, the amount of gas originating from the target food FT adsorbed on the surface of the sensor element of the gas measurement unit 133 is less than before the fan 210 was operated. This improves the accuracy of determining ripeness using the reference value.

[0073] [2-2. Operation] 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the food storage device 1 regarding the measurement of the target food FT. Steps SC1 to SC15 are executed by the control unit 100. The control unit 100 stops its operation when it receives an end signal.

[0074] When control unit 100 receives a start signal from input unit 233 (step SC1), it activates gas measurement unit 133 (step SC2, time T1). Next, after period t1 has elapsed, control unit 100 starts measurement by gas measurement unit 133, continues measurement at a predetermined cycle for a predetermined period (period t2), and stores the first measurement value in memory 120 as a reference value (step SC3). Note that in step SC3, the measurement results at the predetermined time are also similarly stored in memory 120. The first measurement value is the measurement value at time point A in FIG. 9.

[0075] Next, the control unit 100 corrects the measurement result based on the measurement result obtained in step SC3 and determines the ripeness of the target food FT (step SC4). Next, the control unit 100 stores the determination result in the memory 120 (step SC5). Note that, when dividing the ripeness into three stages in ascending order, the determination result is either level 1, level 2, or level 3. Note that the ripeness stages may be further subdivided. Note that, in step SC5, the control unit 100 may execute a notification by the notification unit 231.

[0076] Next, the control unit 100 stops the gas measuring unit 133 (step SC6, time T3), which can reduce power consumption. Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not a predetermined measurement interval period has elapsed until the start of the next measurement (step SC7). If the measurement interval period has not elapsed (step SC7: NO), the control unit 100 repeats the operation of step SC7.

[0077] If the measurement interval period has elapsed (step SC7: YES), the control unit 100 operates the fan 210 (step SC8, time T4). Next, after the period t3 has elapsed, the control unit 100 operates the gas measuring unit 133 (step SC9, time T5). After the period t1 has elapsed, the control unit 100 stops the fan 210 (step SC10). Immediately after stopping the fan 210, the control unit 100 starts measurement by the gas measurement unit 133, continues measurement at a predetermined cycle for a predetermined period (t2), and stores the first measurement value in the memory 120 as a reference value (step SC11). Note that in step SC11, the measurement results at the predetermined time are also similarly stored in the memory 120. The first measurement value is the measurement value at time point A in FIG. 10.

[0078] Next, the control unit 100 corrects the measurement result based on the measurement result obtained in step SC11 and determines the ripeness of the target food FT (step SC12). Next, the control unit 100 stores the determination result in the memory 120 (step SC13). Note that in step SC13, the control unit 100 may cause the notification unit 231 to issue a notification. Next, the control unit 100 stops the gas measuring unit 133 (step SC14, time T7), which can reduce power consumption.

[0079] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not a predetermined measurement interval period has elapsed until the start of the next measurement (step SC15). If the measurement interval period has not elapsed (step SC15: NO), the control unit 100 repeats the operation of step SC14. If the measurement interval period has elapsed (step SC15: YES), the control unit 100 proceeds to step SC8.

[0080] If the measurement interval is long enough that the ripeness of the target food FT changes significantly, the reliability of the measurement results will be compromised. On the other hand, if the measurement interval is short enough that the ripeness of the target food FT changes very little, the power consumption of the food storage device 201 will increase and the gas measurement unit 133 and fan 210 will wear out. In this case, the reliability of the measurement results will not improve. From this perspective, for example, if the target food FT is fruit and the temperature of the environment in which the food storage device 201 is installed is approximately 20 to 25 degrees Celsius, a measurement interval of approximately 6 to 12 hours is suitable.

[0081] Thus, compared to the food storage device 1 of embodiment 1, the food storage device 201 is equipped with a ventilation fan 210, which allows repeated measurements of the same target food FT at intervals. This makes it possible to grasp the current state of ripeness of the target food FT at each stage of ripening over several days. Furthermore, the transparent lid member 203 allows the user to easily see the appearance of the target food FT in addition to the ripeness information that is notified, and allows the user to decide when the food is best to be eaten and how to store it based on the ripeness information and appearance.

[0082] [2-3. Effects] As described above, the food storage device 201 in embodiment 2 has a predetermined internal space IS, a measuring unit 205 in which at least a portion of the target food FT is exposed to the internal space IS, a gas measuring unit 133 installed inside the measuring unit 205 and detecting the characteristic values ​​of the gas originating from the target food FT, and a control unit 100 that determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results of the gas measuring unit 133, and there is one target food FT for one measuring unit 205. According to this configuration, two or more target foods FT are not stored in one measuring unit 205, and it is possible to reduce the volume of one measuring unit 205. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the measurement time for the characteristics of the food.

[0083] The measuring section 205 is composed of a box-shaped device main body 202 and a lid member 203, and one target food FT is housed inside the device main body 202. According to this configuration, the cover member 203 allows the target food FT to be stored in the measuring section 205 even if the target food FT is large.

[0084] In addition, the food storage device 201 has a fan 210 that reduces the pressure in the internal space IS of the measurement unit 205, and the control unit 100 determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results detected by the gas measurement unit 133 after the internal space IS is reduced in pressure by the fan 210. According to this configuration, the internal space IS is ventilated by the fan 210, thereby reducing the amount of gas adsorbed on the surface of the gas measuring unit 133 originating from the target food FT, and then the state of the target food FT is determined, thereby enabling a more accurate determination of the ripeness of the target food FT.

[0085] In addition, the food storage device 201 has an input unit 233 that detects whether or not the target food FT is present in the measurement unit 205, and the control unit 100 determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results detected by the gas measurement unit 133 after the input unit 233 detects that the target food FT is present. This configuration can prevent the gas measuring unit 133 from operating in the absence of the target food FT, resulting in increased power consumption.

[0086] In addition, the control unit 100 adopts the characteristic value corresponding to the measurement result detected by the gas measurement unit 133 after the fan 210 is stopped as a reference value, and after measuring the reference value, determines the state of the target food FT based on the difference between the measurement result detected by the gas measurement unit 133 and the reference value. According to this configuration, the characteristic value measured after the internal space IS is ventilated with air from the external space by the fan 210 becomes the reference value. The concentration of the air in the external space is high both while the fan 210 is operating and immediately after the fan 210 is stopped, but the concentration of gases originating from the target food FT is higher in the latter case. The gas measurement unit 133 has low sensitivity to the air in the external space other than gases originating from the target food FT, and the characteristic value varies widely. On the other hand, immediately after the fan 210 is stopped, the concentration of the air in the external space is high and also contains gases originating from the target food FT, so the characteristic value varies less. Therefore, the reference value is stable, and the ripeness of the target food FT can be determined more accurately.

[0087] The control unit 100 activates the fan 210 when it detects via the input unit 233 that the target food FT is being continuously stored, and does not activate the fan 210 when the target food FT is not being continuously stored. With this configuration, when the target food FT is not continuously stored, the amount of gas originating from the target food FT adsorbed on the surface of the gas measuring unit 133 is small, and ventilation is not necessary, it is not necessary to operate the fan 210. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the detection time corresponding to time t3 in Figure 10 and reduce power consumption.

[0088] The food storage device 201 of the second embodiment detects the ripeness of one target food FT while ripening it based on the temperature of the environment or room in which the food storage device 201 is installed, and notifies the user of the ripeness information. The user can know the ripeness while storing the target food FT in an easily accessible state, so that the user can eat the food at the ripeness that they prefer and can also prevent the user from forgetting to eat the food.

[0089] (Embodiment 3) [3-1.Configuration] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an overview of a food storage device 301 according to the third embodiment. Food storage device 301 is composed of a box-shaped device main body 202 and a storage section 204 provided on the side of device main body 202. The food storage device 301 is provided with one measuring unit 305 and one gas measuring unit 133 for one target food item FT.

[0090] The device body 302 has a circular opening 303 at the top that connects the internal space IS with the external space. The shape of the opening 303 can be changed appropriately to suit the target food FT, and may be, for example, elliptical.

[0091] The device main body 302 has a gas measuring unit 133 and an air pressure sensor 310 (described later) on the side of the internal upper surface facing the storage unit 204, and has an alarm unit 231 on the side facing the storage unit 204. The alarm unit 231 is, for example, a speaker. The device main body 302 has an input unit 233 near the opening 303. The device main body 302 has an alarm activation unit 232 on its side. In the third embodiment, the measurement value immediately after the fan 210 stops is used as the reference value, as in the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, as shown in Fig. 12, the gas measuring unit 133 is disposed in a recess between the wall 210 and a rib 303A (described later), away from the path of the air flow that flows from the device vent 206 toward the storage unit vent 208. This stabilizes the reference value.

[0092] A torus-shaped food holding section 304 is provided on the upper surface of device main body 302, on the periphery of opening 303. Food holding section 304 and opening 303 form measuring section 305. By placing target food FT on measuring section 305, the internal space IS of device main body 302 can be made substantially airtight. Target food FT functions as a lid member that closes the inside of device main body 302.

[0093] Food holding portion 304 is made of a flexible material. For example, food holding portion 304 is made of closed-cell urethane foam, polyethylene foam, or polystyrene foam, and is desirably compressed and deformed by approximately 50-90% of its volume under the load of target food FT. Food holding portion 304 deforms according to the shape of the surface of target food FT, thereby closing the gap between target food FT and food holding portion 304. The food holding section 304 is formed in a shape that restricts the target food FT to a predetermined position, and in the predetermined position, a predetermined portion of the target food FT is exposed to the internal space IS of the measuring section 305. In this embodiment, the predetermined position is a position in which the target food FT is properly placed in the measuring section 305 and the gap between the target food FT and the measuring section 305 is sufficiently closed. For example, if the target food FT is a fruit with a sepal, the predetermined portion of the target food FT is a lower portion of the target food FT that faces the sepal.

[0094] Furthermore, since the gas volatilization characteristics differ depending on the type of target food FT and the location, it is preferable to specify a specific location of the target food FT and place it in the food holding section 304. By restricting the target food FT to a specific orientation using the food holding section 304, the specific location with a relatively high gas volatilization rate can be made to face the internal space IS, thereby shortening the detection time. The internal space IS is a chamber inside the device body 302, and corresponds to an example of an internal space chamber.

[0095] The device body 302 is provided with a rib 303A that protrudes downward from the lower outer edge of the opening 303. The rib 303A is circular when viewed from above. Even if liquid (e.g., fruit juice) is released from the target food FT, the liquid can be prevented from running down the upper surface inside the device body 302 and wetting electrical components such as the gas measuring unit 133, the air pressure sensor 310, or the alarm unit 231.

[0096] A fan 210 is installed at the top of the storage section 204 .

[0097] Device body 302 has device vent 206 formed on its side, and valve 207 covering device vent 206 is provided inside device body 302. Device body 302 is in communication with the outside via device vent 206. Valve 207 is, for example, a cover member that is provided so as to be able to open and close freely using a hinge. Valve 207 has the function of restricting the inflow of air from the outside into device body 302 when the pressure in internal space IS of device body 302 is approximately the same as that of the external space, and when the pressure inside device body 302 is reduced, valve 207 is pushed by the inflowing air to open, thereby connecting device body 302 to the outside.

[0098] The area of ​​the opening 303 and the volume of the internal space IS are important factors in shortening the time required to determine the ripeness. The larger the area of ​​the opening 303, as long as it does not exceed the projected area of ​​the target food FT, the greater the area of ​​the target food FT exposed to the internal space IS, and the greater the amount of gas volatilized into the internal space IS, making it preferable.

[0099] The internal space IS is preferable because the smaller the volume, the higher the concentration of gas derived from the target food FT, as long as the device main body 302 can accommodate the gas measuring unit 133, alarm unit 231, valve 207, etc.

[0100] In the food storage device 301 of this embodiment, the measuring unit 305 has an opening 303, and the target food FT is placed on the measuring unit 305 so as to close the opening 303, thereby reducing the volume of the internal space IS. Specifically, for example, the volume can be reduced by shortening the vertical dimension of the device main body 302.

[0101] The operation of ventilating the device main body 302 and the storage section 204 by the fan 210 is the same as that described in the second embodiment.

[0102] Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing the control configuration of food storage device 301 in embodiment 3. The same components as those in Figs. 3 and 8 are given the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted. The control unit 100 is connected to an air pressure sensor 310. The air pressure sensor 310 is a sensor that measures the pressure in the internal space IS and outputs the measurement result including the pressure value to the control unit 100. The air pressure sensor 310 measures the pressure at a predetermined cycle and outputs the measurement result. The air pressure sensor 310 is an example of a food detection means. The atmospheric pressure sensor 310 is, for example, a so-called MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) sensor. In this case, the atmospheric pressure sensor 310 may be included in the gas measurement unit 133 and configured as a composite sensor of the atmospheric pressure sensor 310 and the gas measurement unit 133.

[0103] The control unit 100 determines whether the target food FT has been placed properly. The control unit 100 may perform this determination operation in response to a start signal, or may perform this determination operation after the completion of step SC8 described in FIG. 11.

[0104] A method for determining whether the target food FT is properly placed will be described. After operating the fan 210 for a predetermined decompression period, the control unit 100 determines whether the pressure value measured by the air pressure sensor 310 is below a predetermined threshold. If the gap between the target food FT and the food holding portion 304 is well sealed, the internal space IS communicates mainly through the device vent 206, and the pressure drops below the predetermined threshold during the decompression period. On the other hand, if the target food FT is not placed properly and there is a large gap between the target food FT and the food holding portion 304, the pressure does not drop below the predetermined threshold during the decompression period. From this perspective, the predetermined threshold is determined in advance.

[0105] In addition to the configuration in the second embodiment, the notification unit 231 also notifies information indicating that the target food FT is not properly placed when the control unit 100 determines that the target food FT is not properly placed. For example, the notification unit 231 issues an alarm sound in this case.

[0106] [3-2. Operation] The food storage device 301 of the third embodiment operates in the same manner as the second embodiment, but further determines whether the target food FT is placed properly. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation of the food storage device 1 related to the measurement of the target food FT in embodiment 3. Steps SD1 to SD6 are executed by the control unit 100.

[0107] When the control unit 100 receives a start signal from the input unit 233 (step SD1), it operates the fan 210 (step SD2). After the pressure reduction period has elapsed, the control unit 100 determines whether the most recent pressure value is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold value (step SD3). If the most recent pressure value is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold value, the control unit 100 stops the fan 210 (step SD4). After step SD4 is completed, the control unit 100 proceeds to step SC1 shown in FIG. 11 of the second embodiment.

[0108] If the most recent pressure value is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the control unit 100 stops the fan 210 (step SD5) and causes the notification unit 231 to notify the user that the target food FT has not been placed properly (step SD6). After step SD6 is completed, the control unit 100 prohibits the process from proceeding to step SC1 shown in Fig. 11 of the second embodiment.

[0109] Next, a case will be described in which the control unit 100 determines whether the target food FT has been placed properly after step SC8 described in FIG. 11 is completed. In this case, the control unit 100 determines whether the most recent pressure is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold after the decompression period has elapsed. Note that the decompression period here is shorter than period t3. Next, if the most recent pressure value is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the control unit 100 proceeds to step SC9 shown in FIG. 11 of embodiment 2. If the most recent pressure value is not equal to or less than the predetermined threshold, the control unit 100 prohibits proceeding to step SC9 shown in FIG. 11 of embodiment 2, stops the fan 210, and causes the notification unit 231 to notify that the target food FT has not been placed properly.

[0110] Food storage device 301 of embodiment 3 may be configured to perform the same operations as food storage device 201 of embodiment 2, i.e., only the operations shown in Figures 9, 10, and 11. In this case, food storage device 301 does not need to include air pressure sensor 310 as food detection means.

[0111] (Modification of the third embodiment) 15 is a perspective view of a modified food holding portion 304B. Food holding portion 304B is a flexible member made of the same material as food holding portion 304. The food holding portion 304B is tapered, widening toward the top. The inner diameter C2 of the lower portion of the food holding portion 304B is suitable for small target foods FT, while the inner diameter C1 of the upper portion is suitable for large target foods FT. Because the upper and lower portions of the food holding portion 304B have different inner dimensions, the gap between the target food FT and the food holding portion 304B can be sealed even if the target foods FT vary in size or shape. Furthermore, by forming the size and shape of the food holding portion 304B to match the target foods FT, the risk of the user accidentally placing a target food FT that is not a detection target can be reduced.

[0112] [3-3. Effects] As described above, the food storage device 301 in embodiment 3 has a predetermined internal space IS, a measuring unit 305 in which at least a portion of the target food FT is exposed to the internal space IS, a gas measuring unit 133 installed inside the measuring unit 305 and detecting the characteristic values ​​of the gas originating from the target food FT, and a control unit 100 that determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results of the gas measuring unit 133, and there is one target food FT for one measuring unit 205. According to this configuration, two or more target foods FT are not placed on one measuring section 305, and it is possible to reduce the volume of one measuring section 305. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the measurement time for the characteristics of the food.

[0113] Furthermore, the measuring unit 305 has an opening 303 that connects the internal space IS with the external space, and the target food FT is placed in the measuring unit 305 so as to close the opening 303. According to this configuration, the target food FT functions as a lid member that closes the internal space IS in which the gas measuring unit 133 is provided. This reduces the volume of the internal space IS, making it easier to increase the concentration of gas originating from the target food FT.

[0114] In addition, the food storage device 301 is provided with a food holding section 304 at the edge of the opening 303 that abuts against the target food FT, and the food holding section 304 is formed from a flexible material, and when the target food FT is stored, the food holding section 304 deforms to close the gap between the measuring section 305 and the target food FT, thereby holding the target food FT. According to this configuration, the degree of sealing of the internal space IS in which the gas measuring section 133 is provided can be improved, and the concentration of gas originating from the target food FT can be easily increased.

[0115] In addition, the food holding portion 304 of the opening 303 is formed in a shape that restricts the target food FT to a predetermined posture, and when in the predetermined posture, a predetermined portion of the target food FT is exposed to the internal space IS (internal space chamber) of the measurement portion 305. According to this configuration, the food holding section 304 is formed to match the shape of the target food FT targeted by the food storage device 301, so that the target food FT can effectively close the internal space IS, improving the degree of sealing and making it easier to increase the concentration of gas originating from the target food FT.

[0116] In addition, the food storage device 301 has a fan 210 that reduces the pressure in the internal space IS of the measurement unit 205, and the control unit 100 determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results detected by the gas measurement unit 133 after the internal space IS is reduced in pressure by the fan 210. According to this configuration, the internal space IS is ventilated by the fan 210, thereby reducing the amount of gas adsorbed on the surface of the gas measuring unit 133 originating from the target food FT, and then the state of the target food FT is determined, thereby enabling a more accurate determination of the ripeness of the target food FT.

[0117] In addition, the food storage device 301 has an air pressure sensor 310 in the measurement unit 205 that detects whether the target food FT is in a predetermined position, and the control unit 100 determines the state of the target food FT based on the measurement results detected by the gas measurement unit 133 after the air pressure sensor 310 detects that the target food FT is in a predetermined position. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the fan 210 from being operated when there is a gap between the target food FT and the measuring unit 305, causing the gas measuring unit 133 to operate without sufficient pressure reduction, making it impossible to accurately determine the degree of ripeness.

[0118] In addition, the control unit 100 adopts the characteristic value corresponding to the measurement result detected by the gas measurement unit 133 after the fan 210 is stopped as a reference value, and after measuring the reference value, determines the state of the target food FT based on the difference between the measurement result detected by the gas measurement unit 133 and the reference value. According to this configuration, the characteristic value measured after the internal space IS is ventilated with air from the external space by the fan 210 becomes the reference value. The concentration of the air in the external space is high both while the fan 210 is operating and immediately after the fan 210 is stopped, but the concentration of gases originating from the target food FT is higher in the latter case. The gas measurement unit 133 has low sensitivity to the air in the external space other than gases originating from the target food FT, and the characteristic value varies widely. On the other hand, immediately after the fan 210 is stopped, the concentration of the air in the external space is high and also contains gases originating from the target food FT, so the characteristic value varies less. Therefore, the reference value is stable, and the ripeness of the target food FT can be determined more accurately.

[0119] The control unit 100 activates the fan 210 when it detects via the input unit 233 that the target food FT is being continuously stored, and does not activate the fan 210 when the target food FT is not being continuously stored. According to this configuration, when the target food FT is not continuously stored, the amount of gas originating from the target food FT adsorbed on the surface of the gas measuring unit 133 is small, and ventilation is not necessary, it is not necessary to operate the fan 210. Therefore, it is possible to shorten the detection time and reduce power consumption.

[0120] Compared to the food storage device 201 of embodiment 2, the food storage device 301 of embodiment 3 omits the lid member 203 and exposes the target food FT to both the interior space IS and the exterior space. This allows the food storage device 301 itself to be low in height, compact, and lightweight. This makes the food storage device 301 easy to carry and install in a variety of locations. For example, by installing the device main body 302 inconspicuously inside a fruit basket or fruit rack, it is possible to manage the ripeness of the target food FT while maintaining compatibility with the user's interior design. Furthermore, the user can easily pick up the target food FT, check it, and eat it while being aware of the ripeness information, which also contributes to increasing consumption of the target food FT. Furthermore, the food storage device 301 of the third embodiment detects the ripeness of one target food FT while ripening it based on the temperature of the environment or room in which the food storage device 201 is installed, and notifies the user of the ripeness information. The user can know the ripeness while storing the target food FT in a state where it can be easily removed, so that the user can eat the food at the ripeness that they prefer and can also prevent the user from forgetting to eat the food.

[0121] (Other embodiments) As described above, the above-described embodiments have been described as examples disclosed in the present application. However, the technology in the present disclosure is not limited to these, and can be applied to embodiments in which modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. are made. Furthermore, it is also possible to combine the components described in the above-described embodiments to create new embodiments. Therefore, other embodiments will be exemplified below.

[0122] In the above-described embodiments, examples have been described in which the target food FT is stored or contained using the independently used food storage devices 1, 201, 301, but this is just one example. For example, the device may be incorporated into a refrigerator or placed inside the refrigerator.

[0123] The configurations shown in the block diagrams of Figures 3, 8, and 13 are merely examples, and the specific implementation of the functional units shown in each block diagram is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessary to implement hardware corresponding to each functional unit individually; it is of course possible to configure each unit to implement its function by a single processor executing a program. Furthermore, some of the functions implemented by software in the above-described embodiments may be implemented by hardware, or some of the functions implemented by hardware may be implemented by software. In addition, the specific detailed configurations of the devices constituting each of the food storage devices 1, 201, and 301 may also be changed as desired within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0124] Furthermore, for example, the step units of operation shown in Figures 4, 5, 11, and 14 are divided according to the main processing content in order to make it easier to understand the operation of the control unit 100, and the present disclosure is not limited by the way in which the processing units are divided or their names.

[0125] It should be noted that the above-described embodiments are intended to illustrate the technology of the present disclosure, and various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc. may be made within the scope of the claims or their equivalents.

[0126] 4. Configurations supported by the above embodiments The above embodiment supports the following configurations.

[0127] (Addendum) (Technology 1) A food storage device comprising: a measuring unit with a specified internal space in which at least a portion of a target food is exposed; a gas measuring means installed inside the measuring unit for detecting characteristic values ​​of gas originating from the target food; and a control unit for determining the state of the target food based on the measurement results of the gas measuring means, wherein there is one target food per measuring unit. With this configuration, two or more target foods cannot be accommodated in one measuring unit, and the volume of one measuring unit can be reduced, thereby shortening the time required to measure the characteristics of the foods.

[0128] (Technology 2) The food storage device according to Technology 1, wherein the measuring unit is composed of a box-shaped device body and a lid member, and multiple target foods are stored inside the device body. With this configuration, two or more target foods cannot be stored in one measuring unit, which reduces the volume of one measuring unit, and multiple measuring units can be installed, making it possible to measure the characteristics of multiple target foods using one food storage device.

[0129] (Technology 3) The food storage device described in Technology 1, wherein the measuring unit is composed of a box-shaped device body and a lid member, and the target food is contained one piece inside the device body. According to this configuration, the cover member allows the target food to be stored in the measuring section even if the target food is large.

[0130] (Technology 4) The food storage device described in Technology 1, wherein the measuring unit has an opening that connects the internal space with the external space, and the target food is placed in the measuring unit so as to block the opening. According to this configuration, the target food acts as a lid member that closes the internal space in which the gas measuring unit is provided, thereby reducing the volume of the internal space and making it easier to increase the concentration of gas originating from the target food.

[0131] (Technology 5) A food storage device as described in Technology 4, in which the edge of the opening is provided with a food holding portion that abuts against the target food, the food holding portion is formed of a flexible material, and when the target food is placed, the food holding portion deforms to close the gap between the measuring portion and the target food, thereby holding the target food. According to this configuration, the degree of sealing of the internal space in which the gas measuring unit is provided can be improved, making it easier to increase the concentration of gas originating from the target food.

[0132] (Technology 6) A food storage device as described in Technology 4 or 5, wherein the opening is formed in a shape that restricts the target food to a predetermined posture, and in the predetermined posture, a predetermined portion of the target food is exposed to a space inside the measuring unit. With this configuration, the food holding portion is formed to match the shape of the target food that the food storage device is intended for, so that the target food can close the internal space well, improving the level of airtightness and making it easier to increase the concentration of gas derived from the target food.

[0133] (Technology 7) A food storage device as described in any one of Technologies 3 to 6, which has a pressure reducing means for reducing the pressure of the internal space of the measuring unit, and the control unit determines the state of the target food based on the measurement results detected by the gas measuring means after the internal space has been reduced in pressure by the pressure reducing means. According to this configuration, the internal space is ventilated using a pressure reducing means, reducing the amount of gas adsorbed on the surface of the gas measuring section originating from the target food, and then the state of the target food is determined, thereby enabling a more accurate determination of the ripeness of the target food.

[0134] (Technology 8) A food storage device as described in Technology 7, wherein the measuring unit has a food detection means for detecting whether the target food is in a predetermined position, and the control unit determines the state of the target food based on the measurement results detected by the gas measurement means after the food detection means detects that the target food is in the predetermined position. This configuration prevents the pressure reduction means from being activated when there is a gap between the target food and the measuring unit, causing the gas measuring unit to operate without sufficient pressure reduction, making it impossible to accurately determine the degree of ripeness.

[0135] (Technology 9) The food storage device according to Technology 8, wherein the food detection means is an air pressure sensor and the pressure reduction means is a fan. With this configuration, if the target food is not in the specified position, the fan cannot sufficiently reduce the pressure inside the container, and the air pressure sensor can detect this. Therefore, it is possible to accurately detect that the target food is placed in the measuring unit in the specified position.

[0136] (Technology 10) The control unit adopts a characteristic value corresponding to the measurement result detected by the gas measurement means after the pressure reduction means is stopped as a reference value, and after measuring the reference value, determines the state of the target food based on the difference between the measurement result detected by the gas measurement means and the reference value. This is a food storage device described in Technology 8. According to this configuration, the measured characteristic value becomes the reference value after the internal space is ventilated with air from the external space by the pressure reduction means. The concentration of the air in the external space is high both while the pressure reduction means is operating and immediately after the pressure reduction means is stopped, but the concentration of gases originating from the target food is higher in the latter case. The gas measurement unit has low sensitivity to air in the external space other than gases originating from the target food, resulting in large variations in the characteristic value. On the other hand, immediately after the pressure reduction means is stopped, the concentration of air in the external space is high and includes gases originating from the target food, resulting in small variations in the characteristic value. Therefore, the reference value is stabilized, allowing for more accurate determination of the ripeness of the target food.

[0137] (Technology 11) A food storage device described in any one of Technologies 8 to 10, wherein the control unit activates the pressure reduction means when the food detection means detects that the target food is being continuously stored, and does not activate the pressure reduction means when the target food is not being continuously stored. With this configuration, if the target food is not stored continuously, the amount of gas originating from the target food adsorbed on the surface of the gas measuring unit is small, and ventilation is not necessary, the pressure reducing means does not need to be activated, thereby shortening the detection time and reducing power consumption. [Industrial Applicability]

[0138] As described above, the food storage device according to the present disclosure can be used to determine the condition of food stored in a food storage device or other device. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 1, 201, 301 Food storage equipment 2. Device body 3 Cover member 4. Measurement section 5 Divider 6 Electrical equipment case 7 Landmarks 10 External Terminal 100 control section 110 processors 120 memory 121 Programs 131 Communications Department 132 Lid detection unit 133 Gas measurement unit (gas measurement means) 202 Device body 203 Cover member 203A Hinge 204 Storage Unit 205 Measurement Department 206 Device Vent 207 Valve 208 Storage Vent 209 Second Valve 210 Fan (pressure reducing means) 211 Wall 231 Information Department 232 Alarm operation unit 233 Input section 302 Device body 303 Opening 303A Rib 304, 304B Food holding part 305 Measurement Department 310 Barometric pressure sensor (food detection means) FT target foods IS Interior Space (Interior Space Room)

Claims

1. A measuring unit having a predetermined internal space, in which at least a portion of the target food is exposed; a gas measuring means installed inside the measuring unit for detecting a characteristic value of a gas derived from the target food; a control unit that determines the state of the target food based on the measurement result of the gas measurement means, There is one target food for one measuring unit. Food storage equipment.

2. the measuring unit is composed of a box-shaped device main body and a lid member, A plurality of the target foods are contained inside the device body. The food storage device of claim 1 .

3. the measuring unit is composed of a box-shaped device main body and a lid member, The target food is contained in one piece inside the device body. The food storage device of claim 1 .

4. the measurement unit includes an opening that communicates the internal space with an external space, The target food is placed in the measurement unit so as to block the opening. The food storage device of claim 1 .

5. The edge of the opening is provided with a food holding portion that contacts the target food, The food holding portion is formed of a flexible material, When the target food is placed, the food holding unit deforms to close the gap between the measuring unit and the target food, thereby holding the target food. The food storage device of claim 4.

6. The opening is formed in a shape that restricts the target food to a predetermined posture, and in the predetermined posture, a predetermined portion of the target food is exposed to a space inside the measurement unit. The food storage device according to claim 4 or 5.

7. a pressure reducing means for reducing the pressure in the internal space of the measuring unit; the control unit determines the state of the target food based on the measurement result detected by the gas measuring means after the pressure of the internal space is reduced by the pressure reducing means. The food storage device according to any one of claims 3 to 5.

8. The measuring unit has a food detection means for detecting whether the target food is in a predetermined position, the control unit determines the state of the target food based on the measurement result detected by the gas measurement means after the food detection means detects that the target food is in the predetermined position. The food storage device of claim 7.

9. The food detection means is an air pressure sensor, and the pressure reduction means is a fan. The food storage device of claim 8.

10. the control unit adopts a characteristic value corresponding to the measurement result detected by the gas measuring unit after the pressure reducing unit is stopped as a reference value, After measuring the reference value, the state of the target food is determined based on the difference between the measurement result detected by the gas measuring means and the reference value. The food storage device of claim 8.

11. The control unit activates the pressure reducing means when the food detection means detects that the target food is being continuously stored, If the target food is not continuously stored, the pressure reducing means is not activated. The food storage device of claim 9.

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