Control method for extract production system and control method for preparation production system

Abstract

To propose a novel technique for making it possible to omit a storage tank in the manufacturing process of extract liquid, and more accurately control an extract liquid concentration such as the amount of soluble solid in the manufactured extract liquid, and propose a novel technique for making it possible to accurately control a value serving as an index of the extract liquid concentration.SOLUTION: An extraction manufacturing system for manufacturing extract liquid from an extraction raw material comprises an extractor into which the extraction raw material is charged, an extraction solution flow passage for supplying an extraction solution to the extractor, and an extract liquid flow passage for sending the extract liquid produced by the extractor. The extract liquid flow passage comprises: a first measurement part including means for measuring the flow rate of the extract liquid flowing through the extract liquid flow passage, and means for measuring an extract liquid concentration or an index correlating with the extract liquid concentration; and a second measurement part provided downstream of the first measurement part, and including means for measuring the flow rate of the extract liquid, and means for measuring the extract liquid concentration or the index correlating with the extract liquid concentration.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a beverage production technology, and more particularly to an extract production system for producing an extract from an extract raw material and a method for producing an extract. [Background technology]

[0002] In the conventional beverage production, an extraction solution (hot water as a processing liquid, etc.) is supplied to an extractor into which extraction raw materials such as tea leaves or coffee beans are charged, and the extract produced in the extractor is temporarily stored in a storage tank. The extract temporarily stored in the storage tank is supplied to a blending tank, where it is blended with other ingredients and water to produce a beverage.

[0003] The extract stored in the storage tank is sampled, and the quality of the extract is confirmed by analyzing the solid content by multiplying the mass of the extract by Brix.

[0004] Regarding the production of such an extract, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses that a flow meter and a concentration measuring device (Brix meter) are provided in the flow path that sends the extract from the extractor to the extraction tank, and by multiplying the mass of the extract by Brix, the total amount of soluble solids contained in the sent extract (soluble solids amount) can be determined in real time.

[0005] This configuration makes it possible to efficiently produce an extract containing the desired amount of soluble solids by stopping the supply of extraction solution to the extractor or blocking the extract flow path when the amount of soluble solids approaches the desired value.

[0006] Furthermore, for example, Patent Document 2 discloses that a soluble solids content extraction section for extracting the soluble solids content is provided upstream of an insoluble solids removal section in a pipe through which the extract flows, and the soluble solids content of the extract is extracted.

[0007] In this configuration, by locating the soluble solid content extraction section upstream of the insoluble solid content removal section such as a centrifuge, it is possible to reduce variations in the measured soluble solid content due to changes in the water pressure of the extract. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6744949 specification [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-248166 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] As mentioned above, in the past, the storage tank was considered essential because the extract was temporarily stored in a storage tank before being supplied to a blending tank to produce a beverage. Also, temporary storage in a storage tank was considered essential in order to sample the produced extract and check its quality.

[0010] In this regard, the inventors have investigated the possibility of omitting the storage tank by temporarily storing the extract in a storage tank and instead supplying the extract directly to a blending tank and blending it there.

[0011] If it becomes possible to omit the storage tank, not only will the installation costs of the storage tank be reduced, but there will also be other major benefits, such as optimizing the amount of extraction solution (hot water) used in production and reducing the amount of waste extract that is produced unnecessarily.

[0012] However, if the storage tank is omitted, it becomes impossible to sample the extract in the storage tank, and therefore it becomes impossible to measure the amount of soluble solids.

[0013] Therefore, as disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, a method of measuring the amount of soluble solids in real time by providing a flow meter and a concentration measuring device in the flow path can be considered, but these conventional measurement methods do not measure the amount of soluble solids in the extract immediately before use in blending, so higher reliability is required. In particular, when the extract is used after solid-liquid separation, there is a possibility that the soluble solids, etc. will be discharged out of the system together with the residue due to solid-liquid separation, resulting in low reliability of the extract concentration of soluble solids, etc.

[0014] Furthermore, since Patent Documents 1 and 2 also have an apparatus configuration that includes a storage tank, it can be said that the prior art has not yet solved the problem of omitting the storage tank.

[0015] In view of the above, the present invention proposes a novel technique for eliminating the need for a storage tank in the process of producing an extract and for enabling more accurate control of the extract concentration, such as the amount of soluble solids in the produced extract, as well as a novel technique for enabling accurate control of a numerical value that serves as an index of the extract concentration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] The problem to be solved by the present invention is as described above, and the means for solving this problem will now be described.

[0017] In one aspect of the present invention, An extract production system for producing an extract from an extraction raw material, an extractor into which the extraction raw material is introduced; an extraction solution flow path for supplying an extraction solution to the extractor; an extract flow path for sending the extract produced by the extractor, The extract flow path includes: a first measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; a second measuring unit provided downstream of the first measuring unit and including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; The extract production system has the above.

[0018] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, In the extract flow path, At least one solid-liquid separator is provided between the first measuring section and the second measuring section.

[0019] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The means for measuring the extract concentration is It is a means for measuring the concentration of a substance contained in an extract.

[0020] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The means for measuring the extract concentration is a means for measuring the concentration of suspended solids, a means for measuring the concentration of dissolved solids, a means for measuring the concentration of soluble solids; It shall consist of one or more types selected from the above.

[0021] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A means for measuring an index correlated with the extract concentration is A means for measuring Brix, a means for measuring using absorbance, a means for measuring turbidity, a means for measuring using refractive index, a means for measuring using transmittance, a means for measuring using chromaticity, a means for measuring using transmitted light, a means for measuring using scattered transmitted light, a means for measuring using laser scattered light, It shall consist of one or more types selected from the above.

[0022] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, When the measurement value of the first measuring unit reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solution to the extractor is stopped; after that, When the measurement value of the second measuring section reaches a second predetermined value, the sending of the extract liquid downstream of the second measuring section is stopped.

[0023] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, In the extract flow path, The apparatus further comprises a means for stopping the delivery of the extracting liquid downstream of the second measuring section when the measurement value of the second measuring section reaches a second predetermined value.

[0024] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The means for stopping the delivery of the extract downstream of the second measuring section is to control a pump or switch the flow path using a valve. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to the present invention, it is possible to more accurately control the extract concentration, such as the soluble solid content of the produced extract, in an operation that does not require a storage tank. Furthermore, it is possible to accurately control a numerical value that serves as an index of the extract concentration in an operation that does not require a storage tank. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a liquid extract production system. [Figure 2] 10 is a graph showing the change over time in each measurement value in the first measurement unit. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a preparation manufacturing system. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process performed in multiple blending tanks. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process performed in multiple blending tanks. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] In the production of the extract of the present invention, examples of the extraction raw materials include tea (black tea, barley tea, green tea, oolong tea), coffee beans, cocoa, and plants such as fruit. The extract produced from these extraction raw materials can be used, for example, in the production process of beverages. Furthermore, when meat or fish (dried bonito, dried kelp, etc.) is used as the extraction raw material, the extract can be used to produce seasonings and the like.

[0028] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in FIG. 1, one embodiment of the present invention includes: An extract production system 1 for producing an extract from an extraction raw material, an extractor 3 into which the extraction raw material is input; an extraction solution flow path 21 for supplying the extraction solution to the extractor 3; an extract flow path 23 for sending the extract produced by the extractor 3; The extract flow path 23 includes: a first measuring unit 31 including a means 31a for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path 23 and a means 31b for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; a second measuring unit 32 provided downstream of the first measuring unit 31 and including a means 32a for measuring the flow rate of the extract and a means 32b for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; The present invention provides an extract production system 1 having the above features.

[0029] Also, as shown in Figure 1, In the extract flow path 23, For example, at least one solid-liquid separator 5 can be provided between the first measuring section 31 and the second measuring section 32. The solid-liquid separator 5 can be, for example, a centrifugal separator. Furthermore, for example, a solid-liquid separator such as a cyclone can be further inserted between the extractor 3 and the first measuring section 31 in FIG.

[0030] 1, the extraction raw material is fed into the extractor 3. In this embodiment, two extractors 3 are provided, and a predetermined amount of the same or different extraction raw material is fed into each extractor 3.

[0031] Examples of extraction raw materials include teas (black tea, barley tea, green tea, oolong tea leaves, etc.), coffees (coffee beans, ground coffee beans, etc.), cocoa, and plants such as fruits, etc. These can be used to produce, for example, beverages, etc. Furthermore, when meat or fish (dried bonito, dried kelp, etc.) is used as the extraction raw material, the extract can be used to produce, for example, seasonings and the like.

[0032] The extracting solution flow path 21 for supplying the extracting solution to the extractors 3 is a flow path that connects the extracting solution tank 41 with each extractor 3 .

[0033] The extraction solution flow path 21 is provided with an extraction solution pump 42 that controls whether or not the extraction solution is supplied from the extraction solution tank 41 to each extractor 3. The extraction solution pump 42 is connected to a controller (not shown) to control its operation, but can also be operated manually.

[0034] The extraction solution is, for example, cold water or hot water set to a predetermined temperature, and pure water, natural water, deoxygenated water, etc. Furthermore, when the extraction solution is water, it may contain a predetermined solute.

[0035] The extract flow path 23 for sending the extract produced in the extractor 3 is a flow path for sending the extract produced in each extractor 3.

[0036] The extract flow path 23 is provided with, for example, an extract receiving tank 51 for mixing the extracts produced by the extractors 3, and an extract pump 53 for delivering the extract mixed in the extract receiving tank 51. The extract pump 53 is connected to a controller (not shown) for operation control, but can also be operated manually.

[0037] The extract flow path 23 is provided with a first measuring section 31 and a second measuring section 32 at a position downstream of the extract pump 53 .

[0038] The first measuring unit 31 includes a means 31a for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path 23, and a means 31b for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration. Note that the first measuring unit 31 may be configured to include both a means for measuring the extract concentration and a means for measuring an index correlated with the extract concentration.

[0039] The means 31a for measuring the flow rate of the extract can measure, for example, the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path 23 per unit time. Specifically, the flow rate can be expressed as a volume (e.g., m 3 / h, m 3 / s), mass (e.g., kg / h, kg / s, g / s), flow velocity (e.g., m / h, m / s), etc. Flow meters that can be used include inline mass flow meters, Coriolis flow meters, electromagnetic flow meters, and thermal flow meters.

[0040] The means 31b for measuring the extract concentration is a means for measuring the concentration of a substance contained in the extract. The concentration of a substance is, for example, as exemplified below.

[0041] <Suspended solids concentration> It is the concentration of insoluble material suspended in the extract. The concept of suspended solids concentration is the concentration that can be measured by filtering a specified amount (e.g., 1 L) of extract through a filter paper appropriate for the purpose, drying the residue, and weighing it (e.g., in mg units) (e.g., in mg / L). In the present invention, any method can be used to measure values ​​that correlate with the concentration of suspended solids. For example, if the concentration of suspended solids correlates with values ​​measured by the absorbance, chromaticity, transmitted light, scattered transmitted light, laser scattered light, refractive index, or the like of the extract, or with turbidity, the values ​​measured by these measuring devices can be converted into the concentration of suspended solids and used. The concentration of suspended solids is useful, for example, when producing a tea extract that requires a certain amount of suspended solids from tea or other extractive materials.

[0042] <Dissolved substance concentration> It is the concentration of dissolved substances in the extract. For example, in the case of an extract made from tea, examples include the concentrations of substances selected from caffeine, tannin, theanine, catechins (epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin (EC), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg), epicatechin gallate (ECg)), proteins, polysaccharides (pectin, hemicellulose, etc.), etc., which are dissolved in the extract. For example, in the case of an extract made from coffee, the concentration of a substance selected from caffeine, chlorogenic acid, etc. dissolved in the extract is exemplified. The dissolved substance concentration is conceptually a concentration that can be measured by high performance liquid chromatography and other various analytical methods. For example, if the dissolved substance concentration is correlated with values ​​measured using the absorbance, chromaticity, transmitted light, scattered transmitted light, laser scattered light, refractive index, etc. of the extract, or values ​​measured with a turbidimeter, the values ​​measured using these measurements can be converted into the dissolved substance concentration and used. The concentration of the dissolved substance is measured, for example, by a commercially available spectrophotometer, colorimeter, refractometer, or the like that can measure the above-mentioned values. The concentration of dissolved substances is useful, for example, when producing an extract from tea or coffee, which requires a predetermined concentration of dissolved substances.

[0043] <Soluble solids concentration> This is the concentration of soluble solids dissolved in the extract. For example, in the field of beverages and foods, examples include the concentrations of sugars as well as soluble solids such as salts and proteins. For example, when the concentration of soluble solids correlates with values ​​measured using the absorbance, chromaticity, transmitted light, scattered transmitted light, laser scattered light, refractive index, turbidity, etc. of the extract, these values ​​can be converted into the soluble solids concentration and used. These values ​​can also be measured using commercially available measuring instruments that can measure the above values. The soluble solids concentration is useful when producing an extract that requires a predetermined soluble solids concentration from tea, coffee, etc., as the extraction raw material.

[0044] When a means for measuring an index correlated with the extract concentration is used, for example, the following index is used.

[0045] <brix> Brix is ​​a commonly used index in the beverage and food industries as an index correlated with soluble solids concentration. Brix is ​​a scale that converts the refractive index into the number of grams of sucrose contained in 100 grams of sucrose solution. The relationship between Brix (g sucrose / 100g) and refractive index is publicly available. The conversion formula has been adopted by the International Commission on Uniformity in Sugar Analysis (ICUMSA). Brix can be measured using a known Brix meter. Therefore, for beverages in which the majority of the soluble solids in a sample are sugars, Brix can be used as an indicator of sugar concentration. Furthermore, because soluble solids other than sugar, such as salts and proteins, also affect the refractive index, Brix measured with a Brix meter is widely used as an index correlated with soluble solids concentration in the beverage and food manufacturing industries, such as tea extracts and coffee extracts. Many in-line Brix meters are also commercially available. In the present invention, Brix can be used as an index that correlates with the soluble solids concentration of the extract and as an index for determining the extract concentration. Brix is ​​useful, for example, when producing an extract from tea, coffee, or the like, which requires a certain amount of soluble solids.

[0046] <Absorbance> For example, absorbance can be used when it correlates with the caffeine concentration, tannin concentration, theanine concentration, catechin concentration, protein concentration, polysaccharide concentration, suspended solids concentration, soluble solids concentration, etc. in the extract. Specifically, the absorbance can be measured using a commercially available absorbance meter.

[0047] <Turbidity> Turbidity conceptually represents the degree of cloudiness, and there are standards such as JIS K0101, JIS K0801, and overseas standards such as EPA 180.1 and ISO7027. Specifically, the turbidity is measured, for example, by a turbidimeter that is widely available on the market. Measurement methods include a transmitted scattered light method, a surface scattered light method, and an integrating sphere method. Turbidity serves as an indicator of the concentration of suspended solids, for example, when producing cloudy tea.

[0048] In addition, if an index measured by another measurement means is affected by the concentration of a substance contained in the extract, for example, an index measured by a means using chromaticity, a means using transmitted light, a means using scattered transmitted light, a means using laser scattered light, a means using refractive index, or the like, can be used.

[0049] The first measuring unit 31 measures the flow rate (i) of the extract and the extract concentration or an index (ii) correlated with the extract concentration, and the controller acquires the sum of the values ​​obtained by multiplying (i) and (ii) as the measurement value (accumulated amount) of the first measuring unit 31. For example, when Brix, which is an index correlated with the soluble solids concentration, which is the extract concentration, is measured, Brix is ​​measured as an index of the soluble solids concentration. Specifically, the controller multiplies the flow rate of the extract (e.g., the flow rate of the extract flowing through the first measuring unit 31 per unit time: e.g., g / s) measured at a predetermined timing while the extract is flowing by the Brix measurement value (unit: Brix degrees), thereby calculating an index of the amount of soluble solids per unit time contained in the extract passing through the first measuring unit 31 per unit time (Brix amount per unit time). The controller also calculates the sum by integrating the soluble solids content index (Bix amount per unit time) calculated at a predetermined timing. The sum calculated in this way is the measurement value (integrated Brix amount) measured by the first measuring unit 31.

[0050] The second measuring section 32 is provided downstream of the first measuring section 31 . The second measuring unit 32 includes a means 32a for measuring the flow rate of the extract. The second measuring unit 32 further includes a means 32b for measuring the extract concentration or measuring an index correlated with the extract concentration. In the second measuring unit 32, similarly to the first measuring unit 31, the flow rate (iii) of the extract and the extract concentration or an index (iv) correlated with the extract concentration are measured, and the controller acquires the sum of the values ​​obtained by multiplying (iii) and (iv) as the measurement value (accumulated amount) of the second measuring unit 32. For example, when Brix, which is an index of the extract concentration that is correlated with the soluble solids concentration, is measured, Brix is ​​measured as an index of the soluble solids concentration. Specifically, the controller multiplies the flow rate of the extract (e.g., the flow rate of the extract flowing through the second measuring section 32 per unit time: e.g., g / s) measured at a predetermined timing while the extract is flowing by the Brix measurement value (unit: Brix degrees), thereby calculating an index of the amount of soluble solids per unit time contained in the extract passing through the second measuring section 32 per unit time (Brix amount per unit time). The controller also calculates the sum by integrating the soluble solids content index (Bix amount per unit time) calculated at a predetermined timing. The sum calculated in this way is the measurement value (integrated Brix amount) measured by the second measuring unit 32.

[0051] Examples of indicators of soluble solids content calculated by the controller are as follows: For example, the flow rate (g / s) and Brix are measured every second, and the specific gravity of the tea extract is approximately 1 g / cm 3 If this is considered to be the case, the following applies. A: Flow meter value: The unit is (g / s). It measures how many grams flow per second. B: Brix meter value: The unit is (Brix degree), and is an index of the soluble solid concentration converted to sucrose (g / 100g extract). (1) A × B ÷ 100: Amount of soluble solids in sucrose equivalent per second (2) Integrated value of (A × B ÷ 100): The integrated value of the soluble solids content converted to sucrose is calculated in grams. (3) Convert the total value of (2) above into kg: (A × B ÷ 100) ÷ 1000 (4) A × B ÷ 100,000 (equivalent to kg of sucrose) is used as an indicator of the soluble solids content.

[0052] In the extract flow path 23, a liquid cyclone for removing foreign matter from the extract may be provided between the extract pump 53 and the first measuring unit 31.

[0053] A liquid cyclone is a device that uses centrifugal force to flush solid foreign matter downwards in an inverted conical tube that narrows toward the bottom, while allowing the extracted liquid from which the solid foreign matter has been separated to overflow from above.

[0054] In the extract flow path 23, for example, at least one solid-liquid separator 5 can be provided between the first measuring section 31 and the second measuring section 32. In this embodiment, for example, a centrifuge can be provided to remove solid matter from the extract.

[0055] The centrifugal separator is a disk-type separator that rotates a plurality of separation plates inside a conical cylinder whose diameter decreases toward the top.

[0056] In the extract flow path 23, a heat exchanger for controlling the temperature of the extract may be provided between the first measuring section 31 and the solid-liquid separator 5.

[0057] In the extract liquid flow path 23, a means for stopping the transfer of the extract liquid downstream of the second measuring part 32 is provided between the first measuring part 31 and the second measuring part 32. For example, a blow valve 33 may be provided upstream of the second measuring part 32 in the extract liquid flow path 23 to allow the extract liquid to escape into the blow flow path. Note that the transfer of the extract liquid downstream of the second measuring part 32 may also be stopped by stopping the extract liquid pump 53. In addition, the "means for stopping the delivery of the extract downstream of the second measuring unit 32" may be provided downstream of the second measuring unit 32, for example, by providing a blow valve and a blow flow path downstream of the second measuring unit 32.

[0058] Furthermore, for example, if a solid-liquid separator 5 is provided between the first measuring unit 31 and the second measuring unit 32, a means for stopping the transfer of the extract downstream of the second measuring unit 32 is provided between the solid-liquid separator 5 and the second measuring unit 32. For example, a blow valve may be provided upstream of the second measuring unit 32 in the extract flow path 23 to allow the extract to escape into the blow flow path. Note that, if an extract pump 53 contributing to the transfer of the extract to the second measuring unit 32 is provided, the transfer of the extract downstream of the second measuring unit 32 may be stopped by stopping the pump.

[0059] FIG. 2 is a graph showing the time-dependent changes in the supply flow rate (unit: g / s) of the extraction solution, the Brix measurement value (unit: Brix degrees) of the extract in the first measuring unit 31, and the measurement value (cumulative Brix amount: unit: kg sucrose equivalent) of the first measuring unit 31 when extraction is performed using tea leaves as the raw material in the system shown in FIG. The vertical axis represents each measurement value, and the horizontal axis represents time. Figure 2 uses data obtained by measuring the supply flow rate of the extraction solution, the Brix measurement value (first measurement unit 31), the integrated Brix amount (first measurement unit 31), and the flow rate of the extraction liquid (first measurement unit 31) every second.

[0060] 2 shows that the supply of the extraction solution is stopped when the measurement value (cumulative Brix amount) of the first measuring unit 31 reaches 80 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent). After the supply of the extraction solution is stopped, the Brix value of the extract continues to be measured as the extract present in the extractor 3 and the extract receiving tank 51 flows, and the measurement value (cumulative Brix amount) of the first measuring unit 31 increases. As a result, the measurement value (cumulative Brix amount) of the first measuring unit 31 reaches 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent).

[0061] Based on this graph, for example, when producing an extract with a target cumulative Brix value of 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent), which is an index of the soluble solid content, it is conceivable to stop the supply of the extraction solution when the measurement value of the first measuring unit 31 reaches 80 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent). This makes it possible to optimize the amount of extraction solution used and prevent the production of an excessive amount of extract.

[0062] In the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1, by providing a second measuring section 32 downstream of the first measuring section 31, and by also performing measurements in the second measuring section 32, it becomes possible to more accurately measure an index of the soluble solids content (cumulative Brix amount) of the extract to be used later in blending.

[0063] This configuration is also used in the present invention. When the measurement value of the first measuring unit 31 reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solution to the extractor 3 is stopped, after that, When the measurement value of the second measuring unit 32 reaches the second predetermined value, the sending of the extract liquid downstream of the second measuring unit 32 is stopped.

[0064] Here, the first predetermined value is 80 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) in the example of Figure 2 above, and the second predetermined value is 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) in the example of Figure 2 above. In addition to the above, the second predetermined value, in the example of Figure 2, can also be set to any value equal to or less than 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent), thereby making it possible to obtain any required cumulative Brix amount.

[0065] 1, the extraction solution pump 42 is stopped based on the measurement value of the first measuring unit 31, and the blow valve is opened to blow based on the measurement value of the second measuring unit 32. In addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the same effect can be obtained by installing a blow valve or the like downstream of the second measuring unit 32.

[0066] In the above example, by using Brix, which is an index of soluble solids, it is possible to accurately control the cumulative Brix amount, which is an index of the cumulative amount of soluble solids contained in the extract that has passed through second measuring unit 32, and to set the cumulative Brix amount of the extract that will be used later to produce a beverage to a predetermined value. Furthermore, because the cumulative Brix amount of the extract can be accurately controlled, there is no longer any need to sample the extract in a storage tank and measure the cumulative Brix amount, which is an index of soluble solids, as in the past, and it is possible to omit the storage tank.

[0067] In particular, as shown in FIG. 1, when a solid-liquid separator 5 (e.g., a centrifuge) is provided between the first measuring section 31 and the second measuring section 32, there is a possibility that the soluble solids may also be discharged out of the system together with the residue, and the amount of soluble solids may decrease by passing through the solid-liquid separator 5 (e.g., a centrifuge).

[0068] In such a case, accurate blending can be performed using the measurement value of the second measuring unit 32. Specifically, for example, in the data of the first measuring unit 31 in FIG. 2, when the measurement value of the first measuring unit 31 of the cumulative Brix amount, which is an index of the cumulative value of the soluble solid content, reaches 80 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent), the first measuring unit 31 obtains a cumulative Brix amount of 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent).

[0069] In addition, if there is a possibility that soluble solids may escape from the system together with the residue in the solid-liquid separator 5 downstream of the first measuring section 31, it is effective to set the value of the second measuring section 32 as follows, for example. (1) The loss of soluble solids that exits the system by the solid-liquid separator 5 downstream of the first measuring section 31 is estimated in advance, for example, as a maximum cumulative Brix value of 5 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent). (2) The target value (second predetermined value) of the cumulative Brix amount of the second measuring unit 32 is set to 155 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent), which is 5 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) lower than the 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) obtained by the first measuring unit 31, which is the maximum estimated loss to the outside of the system in the solid-liquid separation device 5. (3) By stopping the supply of the extract downstream to the second measuring unit 32 when the cumulative Brix value of the second measuring unit 32 reaches the target value (second predetermined value) of 155 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent), the cumulative Brix value, which is an indicator of the required cumulative soluble solid content, can be secured.

[0070] Conversely, when the target value (second predetermined value) of the integrated Brix amount of the second measuring unit 32 is set to 155 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) in advance and the first predetermined value of the measured value of the first measuring unit 31 required when supplying the extraction solution to the extractor 3 is set, the procedure is, for example, as follows. (1) The loss of soluble solids that exits the system through the solid-liquid separator 5 downstream of the first measuring section 31 is estimated in advance as an integrated Brix value of up to 5 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent). (2) The target value of the cumulative Brix amount to be obtained by the first measuring unit 31 is set to 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent), which is 5 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) higher than the 155 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) to be obtained by the second measuring unit 32, which is the maximum estimated loss to the outside of the system in the solid-liquid separation device 5. (3) In order to obtain the required extract for the target cumulative Brix value of 160 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) to be obtained by the first measuring unit 31, the cumulative Brix value of the first predetermined value required when supplying the extraction solution to the extractor 3 is set to 80 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent). By making such settings, the necessary integrated Brix amount can be ensured in the second measuring unit 32.

[0071] In the above example, the extraction solution pump 42 is stopped when the cumulative Brix value measured by the first measuring unit 31 reaches 80 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent), and then, when the cumulative Brix value measured by the second measuring unit 32 reaches the target value of 155 (unit: kg sucrose equivalent) for the cumulative Brix value of the second measuring unit 32, the supply of the extract liquid downstream of the second measuring unit 32 is stopped, thereby ensuring the cumulative Brix value, which is an indicator of the required cumulative soluble solids content.

[0072] In addition, other raw materials (including water, etc.) can be supplied to the blending tank in parallel with the supply of the extract to the blending tank, and as will be described in detail later, it is possible for the extraction process and the blending process to proceed simultaneously.

[0073] Therefore, the present invention is particularly suitable for a configuration in which a solid-liquid separator 5 (centrifuge) is provided between the first measuring section 31 and the second measuring section 32 as shown in FIG.

[0074] Next, a preparation production system 10 using the extract production system 1 shown in Figure 1 will be described. When the preparation is a beverage, the preparation production system becomes a beverage production system.

[0075] 3, the preparation production system 10 supplies the extract that has passed through the second measuring unit 32 to the preparation tanks 61, 62 through the extract flow path 25. Similarly, in the preparation production system 1 incorporated as part of the preparation production system 10, when the measurement value of the first measuring unit 31 reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solution to the extractor 3 is stopped, and thereafter, when the measurement value of the second measuring unit 32 reaches a second predetermined value, the delivery of the extract downstream of the second measuring unit 32 is stopped, thereby enabling operation without a storage tank.

[0076] More specifically, in the preparation production system 10 shown in FIG. 3, the extract produced by the extract production system 1 is supplied directly to blending tanks 61 and 62 without being stored in a storage tank. The extract is blended with other ingredients in the blending tanks to produce a preparation. The preparation itself may be a beverage that is filled into a container. Alternatively, a high-concentration primary preparation (concentrated preparation) may be prepared in the blending tanks 61 and 62, and then diluted with water in another downstream blending tank to produce a preparation that is a drinkable product. The preparation may also be subjected to a sterilization process downstream of the blending tanks 61 and 62. Alternatively, auxiliary ingredients and dilution water may be added to the preparation inline in a downstream process to produce a beverage, etc.

[0077] The system shown in Fig. 3 is provided with a first blending tank 61 and a second blending tank 62, and each of the blending tanks 61, 62 is connected to a flow path (extract flow path 25) through which the extract is transferred from the extract production system 1, a flow path 26 through which other ingredients are transferred, and a flow path 27 through which the blended blend is dispensed. Each blending tank is equipped with an internal stirring device, and the extract and ingredients are stirred and blended for a predetermined period of time. Note that a plurality of blending tanks may be installed, and three or more tanks may be installed.

[0078] FIG. 4 is an example of a time chart for a preparation production system, showing an extraction step, a preparation step, a dispensing step, and a cleaning step.

[0079] The extraction step is a step in which an extract is produced in the extract production system 1 and the extract is supplied to a blending tank. The blending process is a process in which the extract and other ingredients are blended in the blending process. Note that the extraction process and the blending process may proceed simultaneously by supplying other ingredients to the blending tank in parallel with the supply of the extract to the blending tank. The dispensing step is a step of dispensing the prepared liquid produced in the preparation step from the preparation tank. After the preparation step is completed, a cleaning step may be carried out to clean the preparation production system and to prepare it for the next extraction by introducing new extraction ingredients.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 4, by providing multiple blending tanks, it becomes possible to supply the extract to another blending tank B from the time the supply of the extract to the blending tank A starts until the blending in the blending tank A is completed.

[0081] This allows blending in blending tank A and the supply of extract to blending tank B to be carried out in parallel, thereby increasing the operating rate of extract production system 1 without the need for a storage tank. As described above, the concentration of the soluble solids content and other components of the extract can be accurately controlled, ensuring the desired quality of the blend produced in the blending tank.

[0082] Furthermore, by providing multiple blending tanks, it may be possible to supply the extract to another blending tank B after the supply of the extract to blending tank A is completed, from the start of the supply of the extract to blending tank A until the blending in blending tank A is completed. Even in this case, the operating rate of the extract production system 1, which does not require a storage tank, can be increased.

[0083] Furthermore, by providing multiple blending tanks, it is possible to start supplying the extract to one blending tank, and then, once blending in that blending tank is complete, supply the extract to another blending tank. This also increases the operating rate of the extract production system 1, which does not require a storage tank.

[0084] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, by providing multiple blending tanks, from the start of supplying the extract to the blending tank B until the blending in the blending tank B is completed, the beverage that has been blended and produced in another blending tank A is dispensed from the other blending tank A.

[0085] This allows the extraction liquid to be dispensed from the extraction tank A in parallel with the supply of the extraction liquid to the extraction tank B and the extraction liquid being mixed in the extraction tank B, thereby increasing the operating rate of the extraction liquid production system 1, which does not require a storage tank.

[0086] It is sufficient to install multiple blending tanks, and three or more may be installed. For example, if a third blending tank C is installed, after the extraction into blending tank B is completed, the extract can be supplied to blending tank C in parallel with the blending process in blending tank B and the dispensing process in blending tank A, thereby enabling more efficient operation.

[0087] FIG. 5 is an example of a time chart for a mixed liquid manufacturing system. There are multiple mixing tanks, While supplying the extract to a certain blending tank A, Other raw materials are supplied to a certain blending tank A and blended. After preparation, the mixture is discharged. After discharge, a step including a washing step may be carried out to prepare for the next extraction by adding new extraction raw materials.

[0088] This allows the supply of extract to blending tank A and the blending of extract with other ingredients in blending tank A to be carried out in parallel, thereby increasing the operating rate of extract production system 1, which does not require a storage tank.

[0089] Also, as shown in Figure 5, There are multiple mixing tanks, While supplying the extract to a certain blending tank B, Other ingredients can be supplied to a certain blending tank B and blended. While blending is being carried out in a certain blending tank B, the blended liquid is dispensed from another blending tank A.

[0090] This allows the supply of the extract to the blending tank B and the blending of the extract with other ingredients in the blending tank B to be carried out in parallel, and at the same time, the blended liquid can be dispensed from the blending tank A, thereby increasing the operating rate of the extract production system 1 which does not require a storage tank.

[0091] It is sufficient that multiple blending tanks are installed, and three or more may be installed. For example, if the timing of the sequential dispensing processes in Blending Tank A and Blending Tank B does not match, there is a risk that the subsequent process of filling containers, etc., will stop. If it is necessary to reduce this risk, installing a third Blending Tank C will enable more stable operation.

[0092] As described above, the present invention can be implemented as follows: In one aspect of the present invention, an extract production system for producing an extract from an extraction raw material; a blending tank for blending the extract produced by the extract production system with other raw materials; 1. A formulation manufacturing system comprising: The extract production system includes: an extractor into which the extraction raw material is introduced; an extraction solution flow path for supplying an extraction solution to the extractor; an extract flow path for sending the extract produced by the extractor, The extract flow path includes: a first measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; a second measuring unit provided downstream of the first measuring unit and including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; and The extract that has passed through the second measuring section is supplied to the blending tank. A compounded liquid manufacturing system.

[0093] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, In the extract flow path, At least one solid-liquid separator is provided between the first measuring section and the second measuring section.

[0094] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The means for measuring the extract concentration is It is a means for measuring the concentration of a substance contained in an extract.

[0095] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The means for measuring the extract concentration is a means for measuring the concentration of suspended solids, a means for measuring the concentration of dissolved solids, a means for measuring the concentration of soluble solids; It shall consist of one or more types selected from the above.

[0096] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A means for measuring an index correlated with the extract concentration is A means for measuring Brix, a means for measuring using absorbance, a means for measuring turbidity, a means for measuring using refractive index, a means for measuring using transmittance, a means for measuring using chromaticity, a means for measuring using transmitted light, a means for measuring using scattered transmitted light, a means for measuring using laser scattered light, It shall consist of one or more types selected from the above.

[0097] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, When the measurement value of the first measuring unit reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solution to the extractor is stopped; after that, When the measurement value of the second measuring section reaches a second predetermined value, the sending of the extract liquid downstream of the second measuring section is stopped.

[0098] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, In the extract flow path, The apparatus further comprises a means for stopping the delivery of the extracting liquid downstream of the second measuring section when the measurement value of the second measuring section reaches a second predetermined value.

[0099] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, a means for stopping the delivery of the extract downstream of the second measuring unit, This is assumed to be pump control or flow path switching using a valve.

[0100] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A plurality of the blending tanks are provided.

[0101] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A plurality of the blending tanks are provided, From the start of supplying the extract to a certain blending tank until blending in the certain blending tank is completed, It shall be possible to supply the extract to other blending tanks.

[0102] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A plurality of the blending tanks are provided, During the period from when the supply of extract to a certain blending tank is started to when blending in the certain blending tank is completed, after the supply of extract to the blending tank is completed, It shall be possible to supply the extract to other blending tanks.

[0103] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A plurality of the blending tanks are provided, After the supply of extract to a certain blending tank begins and blending in that blending tank is completed, It shall be possible to supply the extract to other blending tanks.

[0104] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A plurality of the blending tanks are provided, Between the time when the supply of extract to a certain blending tank begins and the time when blending in that certain blending tank is completed, The prepared liquid that has been prepared by completing the preparation in the other preparation tank is discharged from the other preparation tank.

[0105] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A plurality of the blending tanks are provided, While supplying the extract to a certain blending tank, It is possible to supply other raw materials to the same blending tank.

[0106] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A plurality of the blending tanks are provided, It is possible to supply an extract to a certain blending tank while supplying other raw materials to another blending tank for blending, and while blending is being carried out in one blending tank, the blended liquid is dispensed from another blending tank.

[0107] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The formulation production system is a beverage production system.

[0108] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, An extract production system for producing an extract from an extraction raw material, an extractor into which the extraction raw material is introduced; an extraction solution flow path for supplying an extraction solution to the extractor; an extract flow path for sending the extract produced by the extractor, The extract flow path includes: a first measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; A method for controlling an extract producing system having a second measuring unit provided downstream of the first measuring unit, the second measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration, When the measurement value of the first measuring unit reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solvent to the extractor is stopped; after that, When the measurement value of the second measuring unit reaches a second predetermined value, the delivery of the extraction liquid downstream of the second measuring unit is stopped. As such, In the control method, the first predetermined value is set based on the second predetermined value.

[0109] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, an extract production system for producing an extract from an extraction raw material; a blending tank for blending the extract produced by the extract production system with other raw materials; 1. A formulation manufacturing system comprising: The extract production system includes: an extractor into which the extraction raw material is introduced; an extraction solution flow path for supplying an extraction solution to the extractor; an extract flow path for sending the extract produced by the extractor, The extract flow path includes: a first measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; a second measuring unit provided downstream of the first measuring unit and including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; and The extract that has passed through the second measuring section is supplied to the blending tank. 1. A method of controlling a formulation manufacturing system, comprising: When the measurement value of the first measuring unit reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solvent to the extractor is stopped; after that, When the measurement value of the second measuring unit reaches a second predetermined value, the delivery of the extraction liquid downstream of the second measuring unit is stopped. As such, In the control method, the first predetermined value is set based on the second predetermined value.

[0110] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The means for measuring the extract concentration is It is a means for measuring the concentration of a substance contained in an extract.

[0111] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, The means for measuring the extract concentration is a means for measuring the concentration of suspended solids, a means for measuring the concentration of dissolved solids, a means for measuring the concentration of soluble solids; It shall consist of one or more types selected from the above.

[0112] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, A means for measuring an index correlated with the extract concentration is A means for measuring Brix, a means for measuring using absorbance, a means for measuring turbidity, a means for measuring using refractive index, a means for measuring using transmittance, a means for measuring using chromaticity, a means for measuring using transmitted light, a means for measuring using scattered transmitted light, a means for measuring using laser scattered light, It shall consist of one or more types selected from the above.

[0113] In addition, in one aspect of the present invention, In the extract flow path, At least one solid-liquid separator is provided between the first measuring section and the second measuring section. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 1 Extract production system 3 Extractor 3 each extractor 5 Solid-liquid separator 10. Mixture manufacturing system 21 Extraction solution flow path 23 Extract flow path 25 Extract flow path 26 Flow path through which other raw materials are transported 27 Flow path for dispensing the mixed liquid 31 First Measurement Section 31a Means for measuring the flow rate of the extract 31b Means for measuring extract concentration or an index correlated with extract concentration 32 Second Measurement Unit 32a Means for measuring the flow rate of the extract 32b Means for measuring extract concentration or an index correlated with extract concentration 33 Blow valve 41 Extraction solution tank 42 Extraction solution pump 51 Extraction receiving tank 53 Extract Pump 61 Mixing Tank 62 Mixing Tank< / brix>

Claims

1. An extract production system for producing an extract from an extraction raw material, an extractor into which the extraction raw material is introduced; an extraction solution flow path for supplying an extraction solution to the extractor; an extract flow path for sending the extract produced by the extractor, The extract flow path includes: a first measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; A method for controlling an extract producing system having a second measuring unit provided downstream of the first measuring unit, the second measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration, When the measurement value of the first measuring unit reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solvent to the extractor is stopped; after that, When the measurement value of the second measuring unit reaches a second predetermined value, the delivery of the extraction liquid downstream of the second measuring unit is stopped. As such, The control method, wherein the first predetermined value is set based on the second predetermined value.

2. an extract production system for producing an extract from an extraction raw material; a blending tank for blending the extract produced by the extract production system with other raw materials; 1. A formulation manufacturing system comprising: The extract production system includes: an extractor into which the extraction raw material is introduced; an extraction solution flow path for supplying an extraction solution to the extractor; an extract flow path for sending the extract produced by the extractor, The extract flow path includes: a first measuring unit including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract flowing through the extract flow path and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; a second measuring unit provided downstream of the first measuring unit and including a means for measuring the flow rate of the extract and a means for measuring the extract concentration or an index correlated with the extract concentration; and The extract that has passed through the second measuring section is supplied to the blending tank.

1. A method of controlling a formulation manufacturing system, comprising: When the measurement value of the first measuring unit reaches a first predetermined value, the supply of the extraction solvent to the extractor is stopped; after that, When the measurement value of the second measuring unit reaches a second predetermined value, the delivery of the extraction liquid downstream of the second measuring unit is stopped. As such, The control method, wherein the first predetermined value is set based on the second predetermined value.

3. The means for measuring the extract concentration in the first measurement unit and / or the second measurement unit is It is a means for measuring the concentration of a substance contained in an extract.

3. The control method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The means for measuring the extract concentration in the first measurement unit and / or the second measurement unit is a means for measuring the concentration of suspended solids, a means for measuring the concentration of dissolved solids, a means for measuring the concentration of soluble solids; Consisting of one or more selected from 3. The control method according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The means for measuring an index correlated with the extract concentration in the first measuring unit and / or the second measuring unit, A means for measuring Brix, a means for measuring using absorbance, a means for measuring turbidity, a means for measuring using refractive index, a means for measuring using transmittance, a means for measuring using chromaticity, a means for measuring using transmitted light, a means for measuring using scattered transmitted light, a means for measuring using laser scattered light, 3. The control method according to claim 1, wherein the control method is configured by one or more selected from the following.

6. In the extract flow path, At least one solid-liquid separation device is provided between the first measuring unit and the second measuring unit.

3. The control method according to claim 1 or 2.

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