Oil modification equipment, oil modification method, cooking method, and cooking utensils

Abstract

Effectively modifies oil. [Solution] The oil reforming apparatus comprises: a negative electrode section inserted into the oil in the oil tank, having a negative electrode plate and to which a negative potential is supplied; a positive electrode section inserted into the oil, not in contact with the negative electrode section, having a positive electrode plate facing the negative electrode plate and to which a positive potential is supplied; an insulating spacer sandwiched between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate, fixing the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate to face each other without contact, and setting the distance between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate to a distance to which charge can move; and a first flow chamber formed between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate through which the oil can flow.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to an oil reforming apparatus for reforming oils such as edible oils, an oil reforming method, an oil, a cooking method, and a cooking appliance.

Background Art

[0002] A technique of applying a negative potential to an electrode to suppress the oxidation of edible oil is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In Patent Document 1, the high potential generation plate 4 is disposed offset at a corner of the oil tank 6 (FIG. 1). For this reason, since the negative electrons emitted from the high potential generation plate 4 are likely to move to the inner surface of the oil tank 6 in the vicinity of the high potential generation plate 4, negative electrons may not be applied to the entire edible oil 7, and there is a risk that the effect of suppressing the oxidation of the edible oil is low.

[0005] In Patent Document 2, the thin plate electrodes 21 and 22 are fixedly installed on the inner wall of the oil tank 11 (paragraph 0022). When a high-frequency current flows through the thin plate electrode 21, an oscillating current is generated between the pair of thin plate electrodes 21 and 22. Then, the oscillating current generates radio waves (radio waves), and these radio waves are irradiated onto the foodstuffs in the oil tank 11 (paragraph 0027). For this reason, the distance between the thin plate electrodes 21 and 22 varies depending on the distance between the inner walls of the oil tank 11 (the size of the oil tank 11). When the distance between the thin plate electrodes 21 and 22 is large, since the negative electrons emitted from the thin plate electrode 21 are likely to move to the inner surface of the oil tank 11, negative electrons may not be applied to the entire edible oil, and there is a risk that the effect of suppressing the oxidation of the edible oil is low. <000003

[0006] In light of the circumstances described above, the purpose of this disclosure is to modify oil more effectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An oil reforming apparatus according to one form of this disclosure is: A negative electrode section is inserted into the oil in the oil tank, has a negative electrode plate, and is supplied with a negative potential. The positive electrode portion is inserted into the oil, is not in contact with the negative electrode portion, has a positive electrode plate facing the negative electrode plate, and is supplied with a positive potential, An insulating spacer is sandwiched between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate, fixing them so that the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate face each other without contact, and setting the distance between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate to a distance at which electric charge can move. A first flow chamber through which the oil can flow is formed between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate, It is equipped with. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, oil can be modified more effectively.

[0009] The effects described herein are not necessarily limited to those described herein and may include any of the effects described herein. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] A schematic diagram shows an oil reforming apparatus according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the electrode section. [Figure 3] This is a schematic side view showing the electrode section. [Figure 4] (A) is a top view and (B) is a side view schematically showing the electrode section inserted into the oil tank. [Figure 5](A) Top view, (B) front view, and (C) side view showing the electrode part. [Figure 6] Perspective view showing the negative electrode part, adjuster, and spacer. [Figure 7] Perspective view showing the negative jack pin unit and positive jack pin unit, and the upper part of the negative electrode and upper part of the positive electrode. [Figure 8] Schematically shows the oil reformed by the oil reforming device. [Figure 9] Schematically shows the operation of the oil reforming device.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0012] I. First Embodiment

[0013] 1. Oil reforming device

[0014] FIG. 1 schematically shows an oil reforming device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] The oil reforming device 1 includes an electrode unit 10 having a negative electrode part 100 and a positive electrode part 200, and a power module 20. The oil reforming device 1 further includes an AC adapter 23 connected to the power module 20, a negative cable 21 (first cable) and a positive cable 22 (second cable) connected to the power module 20, a negative jack pin unit 300 (first jack pin unit) connected to the negative cable 21, and a positive jack pin unit 400 (second jack pin unit) connected to the positive cable 22. The negative jack pin unit 300 (first jack pin unit) has a negative jack pin 301 (first jack pin) and a negative jack stopper 302 (first jack stopper). The positive jack pin unit 400 (second jack pin unit) has a positive jack pin 401 (second jack pin) and a positive jack stopper 402 (second jack stopper).

[0016] The AC adapter 23, the negative cable 21 and the positive cable 22 for connection to the electrode unit 10 are connected to the power module 20. The negative cable 21 is connected to the negative electrode part 100 via the negative jack pin unit 300. The positive cable 22 is connected to the positive electrode part 200 via the positive jack pin unit 400. The power module 20 converts the alternating voltage from the AC adapter 23 into a direct current voltage of, for example, 3000 to 10000V, preferably 5000 to 7000V, more preferably around 6000V, supplies a negative potential to the negative electrode part 100, and supplies a positive potential to the positive electrode part 200. For example, the power module 20 has an input power supply of AC100V, an output voltage of around DC6000V, an output current of about 50nA, and a power consumption of 0.05W.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the electrode unit. FIG. 3 is a side view schematically showing the electrode unit. FIG. 4 is a (A) top view and (B) side view schematically showing the electrode unit inserted into the oil tank. FIG. 5 is a (A) top view, (B) front view and (C) side view showing the electrode unit.

[0018] The electrode section 10 has a negative electrode section 100 (first electrode section), a positive electrode section 200 (second electrode section), and a plurality of spacers 500. The negative electrode section 100 and the positive electrode section 200 are made of conductive metals such as iron, stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. Preferably, the negative electrode section 100 and the positive electrode section 200 are made of SUS430 (ferritic stainless steel) (1.5 mm thick). The negative electrode section 100 and the positive electrode section 200 are inserted into oil (not shown) in an oil tank 90. ​​For example, the oil tank 90 is the oil tank of a fryer, which is a cooking appliance, and the oil is edible oil (frying oil) heated to about 180°C.

[0019] 2. Negative electrode section

[0020] A negative DC potential is supplied to the negative electrode section 100. The negative electrode section 100 includes one or more negative electrode plates 110 (first electrode plates), a negative electrode upper part 120 (first upper part), one or more leg parts 130, and an adjuster 140.

[0021] Multiple (two in this example) negative electrode plates 110 are arranged continuously in an L-shape (for example, by bending sheet metal at a 90-degree angle). The bottom-side negative electrode plate 110A is positioned opposite the bottom surface 91 of the oil tank 90 (where the heating section 95 is provided). The rear-side negative electrode plate 110B is positioned opposite the rear surface 92 of the oil tank 90 (the rear surface 92 opposite the inclined flow surface 96 into which food is added). The negative electrode plate 110 has multiple negative through holes 111. The multiple negative through holes 111 penetrate both the front and back of the negative electrode plate 110, allowing oil to flow between the front and back of the negative electrode plate 110. The negative electrode plate 110 has multiple negative mounting holes 112. The multiple negative mounting holes 112 penetrate both the front and back of the negative electrode plate 110, and multiple spacers 500 are attached to them. In the rear negative electrode plate 110B, the multiple negative mounting holes 112 are arranged in the lateral direction (X direction) of the rear negative electrode plate 110B.

[0022] The negative electrode upper part 120 is provided continuously with the upper end of the rear negative electrode plate 110B and is exposed from the oil surface in the oil tank 90. ​​The negative electrode upper part 120 has a handle 123, a negative plug hole 121 (first plug hole), and a positive jack stopper hole 122 (second jack stopper hole). The handle 123 is used by the user to grip the electrode part 10. The negative plug hole 121 is a plug hole for inserting the negative jack pin 301 of the negative jack pin unit 300. The positive jack stopper hole 122 is a hole for inserting a positive jack stopper 402 into which the positive jack pin 401 of the positive jack pin unit 400 is exposed, and has a shape and size similar to the shape of the positive jack stopper 402 in the direction perpendicular to the plug insertion direction. One pair of negative plug hole 121 and positive jack stopper hole 122 is provided in the lateral direction (X direction) of the negative electrode upper part 120. The user can use one of the sets of negative plug holes 121 and positive jack stopper holes 122 depending on the installation environment.

[0023] The legs 130 are provided continuously with the negative electrode plate 110 (for example, by bending a sheet of metal at a 90-degree angle). The length of the legs 130 in the depth direction (Y direction) can be, for example, 1 to 5 cm, and preferably about 3 cm. This is because if the length of the legs 130 in the depth direction (Y direction) is large, the electrode section 10 will occupy a large volume within the oil tank 90, narrowing the cooking area 94 into which food can be added. The legs 130 have a plurality of bottom-side legs 130A and a plurality of rear-side legs 130B. A pair of bottom-side legs 130A are provided continuously with the bottom-side negative electrode plate 110A in the width direction (X direction), and one bottom-side leg 130A is provided on the side away from the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B in the depth direction (Y direction). A pair of rear-side legs 130B are continuously provided on the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B in the width direction (X direction). The legs 130 contact the conductive oil tank 90 to bring the oil tank 90 to the potential of the negative electrode section 100 (negative potential). Specifically, the bottom-side legs 130A contact the bottom surface 91 of the oil tank 90, and the rear-side legs 130B contact the rear surface 92 of the oil tank 90. ​​A slit 131 is provided in each of the pair of rear-side legs 130B that face each other in the width direction (X direction). The slit 131 is elongated in the height direction (Z direction). The slit 131 is provided near the boundary between the rear-side legs 130B and the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B. The center of the slit 131 and the centers of the multiple negative mounting holes 112 are aligned in a line in the width direction (X direction). The slit 131 may also be provided on a pair of bottom-side legs 130A that face each other in the width direction (X direction).

[0024] The adjuster 140 has a longitudinal portion 141 and a stopper portion 142. The longitudinal portion 141 is inserted into a slit 131 of one of a pair of rear-side legs 130B, depending on the installation environment. The stopper portion 142 is provided at the longitudinal (X-direction) end of the longitudinal portion 141 and is exposed from the rear-side legs 130B. The stopper portion 142 has an end face 144 (YZ plane) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (X-direction) of the longitudinal portion 141, preventing the entire adjuster 140 from retracting into the slit 131. The longitudinal portion 141 is expandable and contractible (can protrude and retract) in the lateral direction (X-direction; one of the surface directions of the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B) relative to the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B. The longitudinal portion 141 has a long through hole 143 extending in the expansion / contraction direction (X-direction). The elongated through-hole 143 is used to movably fix the adjuster 140 to the rear negative electrode plate 110B so that its longitudinal portion 141 moves in the lateral direction (X direction) of the rear negative electrode plate 110B, allowing it to expand and contract relative to the negative electrode plate 110 (the fixing method will be described later). The end face 144 of the stopper portion 142 of the adjuster 140 and the rear leg portion 130B (i.e., the side surface of the rear negative electrode plate 110B) into which the adjuster 140 is not inserted in the slit 131 contact a pair of opposing inner surfaces 93, 93 of the oil tank 90, thereby fixing the negative electrode portion 100 inside the oil tank 90. ​​Note that the adjuster 140 may not be used depending on the size of the oil tank 90. ​​That is, if the width of the negative electrode portion 100 is small enough to fit into the oil tank 90, the adjuster 140 does not need to be used to fix the negative electrode portion 100. In that case, it is not necessary to attach the adjuster 140 to the negative electrode part 100.

[0025] 3. Positive electrode section

[0026] A positive DC potential is supplied to the positive electrode section 200. The positive electrode section 200 has one or more positive electrode plates 210 (second electrode plates) and a positive electrode upper part 220 (second upper part). The positive electrode section 200 is not in contact with the negative electrode section 100.

[0027] Multiple (two in this example) positive electrode plates 210 are arranged continuously in an L-shape (for example, by bending sheet metal at a 90-degree angle). The bottom-side positive electrode plate 210A is positioned non-contacting and equally spaced opposite the bottom surface 91 of the oil tank 90 and the bottom-side negative electrode plate 110A. The rear-side positive electrode plate 210B is positioned non-contacting and equally spaced opposite the rear surface 92 of the oil tank 90 and the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B. The peripheral edges of the positive electrode plates 210 face the legs 130 non-contacting. Specifically, the peripheral edge of the bottom-side positive electrode plate 210A faces the bottom-side legs 130A non-contacting. The peripheral edge of the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B faces the rear-side legs 130B non-contacting. The positive electrode plates 210 have multiple positive through holes 211. Multiple positive through holes 211 penetrate both the front and back of the positive electrode plate 210, allowing oil to circulate between the front and back of the positive electrode plate 210. The positive electrode plate 210 has multiple positive mounting holes 212. Multiple positive mounting holes 212 penetrate both the front and back of the positive electrode plate 210, and multiple spacers 500 are attached to them. On the back side positive electrode plate 210B, the multiple positive mounting holes 212 are arranged in the lateral direction (X direction) of the back side positive electrode plate 210B. The multiple positive mounting holes 212 are positioned opposite to the multiple negative mounting holes 112. This is because spacers 500 are installed in the opposing pair of positive mounting holes 212 and negative mounting holes 112. Therefore, the positive mounting holes 212 may have a notched shape that penetrates both the front and back to absorb positional misalignment due to individual differences with the negative mounting holes 112 (Figure 5(A) top view).

[0028] The upper part 220 of the positive electrode is provided continuously with the upper end of the rear side positive electrode plate 210B and is exposed from the oil surface in the oil tank 90. ​​The upper part 220 of the positive electrode faces the upper part 120 of the negative electrode without contact and is positioned between the oil surface and the upper part 120 of the negative electrode. The upper part 220 of the positive electrode has a positive plug hole 221 (second plug hole). The positive plug hole 221 is provided in a position opposite to the positive jack stopper hole 122 of the upper part 120 of the negative electrode in the plug insertion / removal direction (Z direction) and is a plug hole for inserting a positive jack pin 401. One positive plug hole 221 is provided on each side of the upper part 220 of the positive electrode in the width direction (X direction). The user can use one of the positive plug holes 221 depending on the installation environment.

[0029] 4. Spacer

[0030] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the negative electrode section, adjuster, and spacer.

[0031] Multiple spacers 500 are made of an insulator (for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)). Multiple spacers 500 are fixed so that the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive electrode plate 210 face each other without contact, and the distance between the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive electrode plate 210 is set at equal intervals. The distance between the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive electrode plate 210 should be small enough that charge can move and is smaller than the length of the leg portion 130 in the depth direction (Y direction) (for example, 1 to 5 cm is sufficient, for example, about 3 cm) (i.e., the periphery of the positive electrode plate 210 faces the leg portion 130). For example, the distance between the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive electrode plate 210 should be 0.5 to 2.5 cm, for example, about 1.5 cm. A set of three spacers 500 consists of a central spacer 501, an outer spacer 502, and an inner spacer 503. The central spacer 501 is sandwiched between the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive electrode plate 210. The negative electrode plate 110 is sandwiched between the central spacer 501 and the outer spacer 502. One of the central spacer 501 and the outer spacer 502 has a protrusion and a recess (which may have screw threads), and the protrusion is inserted into the negative mounting hole 112 of the negative electrode plate 110, fixing the outer spacer 502 and the central spacer 501 in a state of sandwiching the negative electrode plate 110. The positive electrode plate 210 is sandwiched between the central spacer 501 and the inner spacer 503. One of the central spacer 501 and the inner spacer 503 has a protrusion and a recess (which may have screw threads), and the protrusion is inserted into the positive mounting hole 212 of the positive electrode plate 210, fixing the inner spacer 503 and the central spacer 501 in a state of sandwiching the positive electrode plate 210.

[0032] The longitudinal portion 141 of the adjuster 140 is interposed between the rear negative electrode plate 110B and the central spacer 501. Specifically, the protrusions of the central spacer 501 or the outer spacer 502 are inserted into the negative mounting hole 112 of the rear negative electrode plate 110B and the elongated through hole 143 of the longitudinal portion 141 of the adjuster 140. The central spacer 501 faces the longitudinal portion 141 of the adjuster 140, and the outer spacer 502 contacts the rear negative electrode plate 110B. Multiple spacers 500 are arranged in the expansion and contraction direction, and the protrusions of each of the multiple spacers 500 (central spacer 501 or outer spacer 502) are inserted into the elongated through hole 143 and fixed to the negative electrode plate 110. As a result, the longitudinal portion 141 is expandable and contractible (can protrude and retract) in the lateral direction (X direction; one of the planar directions of the rear negative electrode plate 110B) relative to the rear negative electrode plate 110B.

[0033] 5. The first distribution room and the second distribution room

[0034] The oil reforming unit 1 further comprises a first flow chamber 610 and a second flow chamber 620.

[0035] The first circulation chamber 610 is a space through which oil can flow, formed between a negative electrode plate 110 and a positive electrode plate 210 fixed at equal intervals so as to face each other non-contact by spacers 500. Multiple first circulation chambers 610 are formed by multiple negative electrode plates 110 and multiple positive electrode plates 210 each being fixed and facing each other by spacers 500. Specifically, the bottom-side negative electrode plate 110A and the bottom-side positive electrode plate 210A constitute the bottom-side first circulation chamber 610A, and the rear-side negative electrode plate 110B and the rear-side positive electrode plate 210B constitute the rear-side first circulation chamber 610B. Oil flows in and out of the first circulation chamber 610 through the negative through-hole 111 of the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive through-hole 211 of the positive electrode plate 210. In particular, the oil in the first circulation chamber 610 flows out into the cooking area 94 through the negative through-hole 111 of the negative electrode plate 110. Specifically, the oil in the first circulation chamber 610 flows out into the cooking area 94 from two directions: the first circulation chamber 610A on the bottom side and the first circulation chamber 610B on the back side.

[0036] The second circulation chamber 620 is a space through which oil can flow, formed between the oil tank 90, which is brought to the potential (negative potential) of the negative electrode portion 100 by contact with the leg portion 130, and the positive electrode plate 210. Multiple second circulation chambers 620 are formed by the bottom surface 91 and back surface 92 of the oil tank 90 and the multiple positive electrode plates 210 facing each other to form a second circulation chamber 620. Specifically, the bottom surface 91 of the oil tank 90 and the bottom-side positive electrode plate 210A form the bottom-side second circulation chamber 620A, and the back surface 92 of the oil tank 90 and the back-side positive electrode plate 210B form the back-side second circulation chamber 620B. Oil flows in and out of the second circulation chamber 620 through the positive through-holes 211 of the positive electrode plate 210. Specifically, the oil in the second circulation chamber 620 flows into the first circulation chamber 610 via the positive through-hole 211, and then flows out into the cooking area 94 via the negative through-hole 111 of the negative electrode plate 110. Specifically, the oil in the second circulation chamber 620 flows out into the cooking area 94 from two directions, the second circulation chamber 620A on the bottom side and the second circulation chamber 620B on the back side, via the first circulation chamber 610.

[0037] 6. Negative jack pin unit and positive jack pin unit

[0038] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the negative jack pin unit, the positive jack pin unit, and the upper part of the negative electrode and the upper part of the positive electrode.

[0039] The negative jack pin unit 300 includes a negative jack pin 301 connected to the negative cable 21 and a negative jack stopper 302 through which the negative jack pin 301 is exposed. As shown in (D), the negative jack pin 301 is inserted into the negative plug hole 121 of the upper part 120 of the negative electrode.

[0040] The positive jack pin unit has a positive jack pin 401 connected to the positive cable 22 and a positive jack stopper 402 in which the positive jack pin 401 is exposed. As shown in (B), the positive plug hole 221 is located opposite the positive jack stopper hole 122 of the negative electrode upper part 120 in the plug insertion / removal direction (Z direction). As shown in (C) and (D), the positive jack pin 401 is inserted into the positive plug hole 221 of the positive electrode upper part through the positive jack stopper hole 122 of the negative electrode upper part 120. The positive jack stopper 402 is inserted into the positive jack stopper hole 122 of the negative electrode upper part 120.

[0041] As shown in (A), the length of the positive jack stopper 402 in the plug insertion / removal direction (Z direction) is longer than the length of the negative jack stopper 302 by the distance L in the opposing direction (Z direction) between the upper part of the negative electrode 120 and the upper part of the positive electrode 220. Therefore, as shown in (E), when the negative jack pin 301 is inserted into the negative plug hole 121, the connection end 303 of the negative cable 21 of the negative jack stopper 302 and when the positive jack pin 401 is inserted into the positive plug hole 221, the connection end 403 of the positive cable 22 of the positive jack stopper 402 are at the same height in the plug insertion / removal direction (Z direction) (they exist on the same XY plane). If we assume that the negative jack pin 301 is mistakenly inserted into the positive plug hole 221 and the positive jack pin 401 is inserted into the negative plug hole 121, then the connection end 303 of the negative jack stopper 302 and the connection end 403 of the positive jack stopper 402 will not be at the same height in the Z direction, and the difference in height in the Z direction will be 2L (difference in jack stopper length L + difference in the height of the top of the electrodes L). Therefore, the user can confirm that the connection end 303 of the negative jack stopper 302 and the connection end 403 of the positive jack stopper 402 are at the same height in the Z direction and determine that the plug connection is correct.

[0042] 7. Operation of the oil reforming unit

[0043] Figure 8 schematically shows oil that has been modified by an oil modification device.

[0044] As shown in (A), ordinary oil molecules are in a state where they easily bond with each other, and water molecules are also bonded to them. When edible oil is heated to about 180°C, it oxidizes (deteriorates) due to the thermal motion of the molecules (thermal polymerization and thermal decomposition). When deep-frying, the edible oil further oxidizes as it reacts with water and carbohydrates in the batter. Therefore, as shown in (B), the oil modification device 1 applies a high voltage discharge (6000V or more) to the negative electrode section 100 and the positive electrode section 200, releasing a large amount of negative electrons from the negative electrode section 100 to the positive electrode section 200. When electron radiation is applied to the group of oil molecules to which water molecules are also bonded, the water molecules also separate, and the group of oil molecules is subdivided (attempting to become a single molecule). By stabilizing the molecular structure of the oil, it is possible to prevent the phenomenon of electrons being released and to significantly slow down oxidation (deterioration). When electron vibration is applied to the oil, molecular subdivision occurs, and the subdivided molecules become negatively charged, suppressing the bonding of water and carbonized frying residue. As shown in (C), the stabilization of the oil's molecular structure makes it difficult for carbon (such as fried food residue that has been carbonized by heat) to bond with the oil molecules. Even when the oil is heated for frying, the ionized oil remains fragmented and is less likely to bond with carbonized materials such as fried food residue. As a result, water vapor is released, significantly extending the oil's lifespan.

[0045] Figure 9 schematically illustrates the operation of the oil reforming unit.

[0046] Specifically, negative electrons are emitted from the negative electrode plate 110 to the positive electrode plate 210, and the oil in the first flow chamber 610 between the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive electrode plate 210 is ionized (becomes fragmented and charged oil). The ionized oil in the first flow chamber 610 flows out into the cooking area 94 through the negative through-hole 111 of the negative electrode plate 110. Specifically, the ionized oil in the first flow chamber 610 flows out into the cooking area 94 from two directions: the first flow chamber 610A on the bottom side and the first flow chamber 610B on the back side.

[0047] Furthermore, when the leg portion 130 makes contact, negative electrons are released from the oil tank 90, which has been brought to a negative potential at the negative electrode portion 100, to the positive electrode plate 210, and the oil in the second circulation chamber 620 between the oil tank 90 and the positive electrode plate 210 is ionized (becomes fragmented and charged oil). The ionized oil in the second circulation chamber 620 flows into the first circulation chamber 610 through the positive through hole 211, and then flows out into the cooking area 94 through the negative through hole 111 of the negative electrode plate 110. Specifically, the ionized oil in the second circulation chamber 620 flows out into the cooking area 94 from two directions, the second circulation chamber 620A on the bottom side and the second circulation chamber 620B on the back side, via the first circulation chamber 610.

[0048] In this way, the oil in the oil tank 90 constantly circulates between the first circulation chamber 610A on the bottom side and the first circulation chamber 610B on the back side, the second circulation chamber 620A on the bottom side and the second circulation chamber 620B on the back side, and the cooking area 94. More specifically, the oil heated by the heating unit 95 flows upward from the first circulation chamber 610A and the second circulation chamber 620A on the bottom side near the heating unit 95 into the cooking area 94, and the oil that has moved to the cooking area 94 flows into the first circulation chamber 610B and the second circulation chamber 620B on the back side and then flows back into the cooking area 94 again through convection. In this way, ionized oil constantly flows into the cooking area 94 from the circulation chambers on the bottom side and the back side, making it possible to cook food using ionized oil in the cooking area 94. On the other hand, the oil that has deteriorated due to cooking in the cooking area 94 constantly flows into the first circulation chamber 610A and the second circulation chamber 620A on the bottom side, and the first circulation chamber 610B and the second circulation chamber 620A on the back side, making it possible to constantly ionize and modify the deteriorated oil.

[0049] According to this embodiment, a positive electrode section 200 is provided in addition to the negative electrode section 100, and the distance between the negative electrode plate 110 and the positive electrode plate 210 is maintained at an efficient distance to constitute the first flow chamber 610. The distance between the oil tank 90, which is at a negative potential, and the positive electrode plate 210 is maintained at an efficient distance to constitute the second flow chamber 620. Furthermore, the positions of the first flow chamber 610 and the second flow chamber 620 are configured on two sides of the oil tank 90 without bias. As a result, it becomes possible to convert the oil in the cooking area 94 into ionized oil more efficiently than in Patent Documents 1-2.

[0050] To stably and effectively ionize oil, three conditions are important: the position where the electrode section 10 is installed, the structure of the electrode section 10, and the surface area of ​​the electrode section 10. Regarding the position, the convection of heated oil originates from the first and second flow chambers 610A and 620A on the bottom side and flows to the upper part of the cooking area 94. As the oil passes through the fixed, equally spaced positive electrode section 200 and negative electrode section 100, electrons become charged (ionized) in the passing oil. If the area of ​​the electrode section 10 is small, the ionization efficiency will be low, and the effect of oxidation by heat will be weaker than with an electrode section 10 with a larger area. Therefore, designing an L-shaped electrode section 10 and installing the bottom-side negative electrode plate 110A and bottom-side positive electrode plate 210A on the heating section 95 of the oil tank 90 enhances the ionization effect. There are two methods for ionizing oil: DC and AC. However, with the AC method, the size of the fryer that can install two electrodes is limited. Furthermore, in the case of a fryer with a wide gap between the two electrodes (Patent Document 2), due to the characteristics of the current, it flows to the easier path, causing the current to flow into the fryer body and creating a risk of electric shock. On the other hand, with an electrode section 10 that maintains a constant distance using a DC method, stable ionization of the oil can be obtained. Ionization of oil causes a charge to be attached to individual molecules of oil that have passed through the electrodes.

[0051] 8. Experimental Examples

[0052] The oil conditioning device 1 of this embodiment was installed in a fryer at a restaurant that mainly prepares fried chicken, and cooking operations were conducted for two weeks. The oxidation level of the oil (TMP value) was measured using an oxidation meter (TESTO270: manufactured by Testo Corporation). The TMP value (Total Polar Material) is an index for measuring the degree of oxidation of oil, and represents the amount of all decomposition products and polymerization products generated during the hydrolysis and oxidation process of the oil, expressed in weight percent. A TMP value exceeding 22% indicates that the frying oil has deteriorated. A TMP value of 14-22% indicates that the oil is suitable for frying. A TMP value of less than 14% indicates nearly new oil. Before the introduction of the oil conditioning device 1, this restaurant changed the oil in its fryer eight times a month (once every four days).

[0053] On day 0 after the introduction of oil reformer 1, the oxidation value of unused oil was 7.0% (TMP value). After 2 days of operation, the TMO value was 9.0%, which was a perfectly acceptable oxidation level. After 5 days of operation, the TMO value was 13.0%, which was about 2 days past the normal oil change interval without using oil reformer 1, but the oil was clean and the oxidation level was perfectly acceptable. After 7 days of operation, the TMO value was 14.0%, which was also a perfectly acceptable oxidation level. After 11 days of operation, the TMO value was 19.5%, which was still within the usable oxidation range. After 13 days of operation, the TMO value was 21.0%, approaching the threshold (TMP value of 22%), so the oil was changed. The introduction of oil conditioning device 1 reduced the frequency of oil changes from approximately 8 times per month (about once every 4 days) to approximately 3 times per month (about once every 13 days) (extending the oil's lifespan by about three times), resulting in significant cost savings on oil.

[0054] Furthermore, the following differences were observed in the food after frying when using oil modifier 1 versus when not using it. When using oil modifier 1, the oil became darker in color after frying, but there was almost no foaming. Less oil seeped from the fried food, and the oil drained well. The crispness was maintained even after 2 hours. There was no darkening of the color of the fried food. In contrast, when oil modifier 1 was not used, the oil became quite dark after frying, and a large amount of foam was generated. A lot of oil seeped from the fried food immediately after frying. The crispness of the fried food disappeared in less than 2 hours. The color of the fried food was darkened.

[0055] 9. Other Embodiments and Variations

[0056] The oil modification apparatus 1 of this embodiment realizes an oil modification method by inserting the negative electrode section 100 and the positive electrode section 200 into the oil in the oil tank 90, supplying a negative potential to the negative electrode section 100, and supplying a positive potential to the positive electrode section 200. By inserting the negative electrode section 100 and the positive electrode section 200 of the oil modification apparatus 1 of this embodiment into the oil in the oil tank 90, supplying a negative potential to the negative electrode section 100, and supplying a positive potential to the positive electrode section 200, modified oil can be produced. The oil modification apparatus 1 of this embodiment realizes a cooking method by inserting the negative electrode section 100 and the positive electrode section 200 of the oil modification apparatus 1 into the oil in the oil tank 90, supplying a negative potential to the negative electrode section 100, and supplying a positive potential to the positive electrode section 200, and then adding food to the heated oil in the oil tank 90. This embodiment realizes a cooking appliance (fryer) comprising the oil conditioning device 1, an oil tank 90, and a heating device capable of heating the oil tank 90. ​​With this cooking appliance, it is possible to cook all kinds of fried foods such as tempura, donuts, malasadas, croquettes, fried foods, and deep-fried foods.

[0057] In the above embodiment, the electrode portion located on the outside and having legs (the first electrode portion) is designated as the negative electrode portion 100, and the electrode portion located on the inside (the second electrode portion) is designated as the positive electrode portion 200. However, the reverse is also possible. That is, the electrode portion located on the outside and having legs (the first electrode portion) may be designated as the positive electrode portion, and the electrode portion located on the inside (the second electrode portion) may be designated as the negative electrode portion.

[0058] In the above embodiment, two sets of negative electrode plates 110 and positive electrode plates 200 are configured in an L-shape. Alternatively, for example, three sets of negative electrode plates 110 and positive electrode plates 200 may be configured in a U-shape. That is, the central negative electrode plate 110 and positive electrode plate 200 are positioned facing the back surface 92 of the oil tank 90. ​​The two sets of negative electrode plates 110 and positive electrode plates 200 on the left and right are positioned facing a pair of opposing inner surfaces 93, 93 of the oil tank 90. ​​The configuration of the negative electrode plates 110 and positive electrode plates 200 can be changed depending on the size of the oil tank 90, the position of the heat unit 95, the installation environment, etc. Alternatively, the electrode unit 10 may have only one set of negative electrode plates 110 and positive electrode plates 200. The one set of negative electrode plates 110 and positive electrode plates 200 can be positioned on the bottom surface 91, the back surface 92, and one of the inner surfaces 93 of the oil tank 90.

[0059] 10. Addendum

[0060] In tempura, ingredients are coated in batter and deep-fried, during which different proteins combine with water to form gluten. Ionization (oil that has been broken down and given an electric charge) suppresses the binding of different proteins in the batter, thereby inhibiting gluten formation. As a result, even as the fried tempura cools, moisture does not seep out from the gluten formed in the batter, and the crispness of freshly fried tempura is maintained.

[0061] The frequency at which electrons are generated (the frequency of electron motion) is close to the frequency band of a microwave oven. Although microwave ovens use a lot of energy, the oil reforming device 1 of this embodiment also vibrates molecules, generating thermal energy and thus shortening the frying time.

[0062] Normally, when deep-frying, oil and water combine and heat up, producing oil fumes. However, when deep-frying with the oil modification device 1 of this embodiment, the combination of oil and water is significantly suppressed, so almost no oil fumes are produced. The smoke that is produced is water vapor from water heated to high temperatures.

[0063] When fried food is cooked using the oil modification device 1 of this embodiment, the generation of harmful substances such as trans fatty acids and acridamides is significantly suppressed. Trans fatty acids and acridamides are generated when oil is heated, but when they ionize, they break down the fatty acids themselves that were originally contained in the oil. Therefore, even when oil is heated, the generation of trans fatty acids and acridamides can be significantly suppressed. As a result, heartburn and indigestion that occur after eating fried food are less likely to occur.

[0064] In the food service industry, cooking oil used for deep-frying is indispensable, but the cost of cooking oil is enormous, and in order to maintain deliciousness, oxidized cooking oil must be frequently replaced with fresh cooking oil. Oxidation of cooking oil is an unavoidable phenomenon. The oil modification device 1 of this embodiment can extend the life of the oil by 2 to 3 times compared to a normal fryer. In addition, ionization significantly suppresses the generation of acrylamide and trans fatty acids, which are considered harmful substances that are generated when cooking oil is deep-fried, and allows for deep-frying about 15% faster than normal.

[0065] The edible oil stabilized ionically by applying negative electrons from two directions using the oil modification device 1 of this embodiment does not transfer the odor of each food item. Even when vegetables and raw fish are fried at the same time, the vegetables will not absorb any fishy smell. In addition, the thermal conductivity of edible oil stabilized (ionized) by negative electrons increases, and the frying time is significantly shortened. Because the molecular structure of the edible oil is stabilized, carbon (the state in which fried food residue is carbonized by heat) is less likely to bond with the molecules of the edible oil, so the blackening and dulling of fried food is greatly reduced, and it fries up crispy. Negative electrons are not only applied to the edible oil, but also to the fried food itself, reducing the amount of umami components that dissolve, resulting in a fried food that retains its original deliciousness.

[0066] The oil modification device 1 of this embodiment has the effect of stabilizing oil molecules using the power of electrons. When the molecular structure of the oil is in a stable state, the oxidation of the oil is suppressed more than usual, the oil lasts longer, the lifespan is extended by at least 2 to 3 times, reducing oil costs, the penetration of oil into fried foods is reduced more than usual, resulting in better oil drainage, healthier fried foods can be made, the crispness lasts longer, the umami component ratio increases and the taste is enhanced, frying time can be shortened, the generation of oil smoke and oil splatter is greatly reduced and oil stains are suppressed, exhaust duct fires are reduced, the oil usage temperature can be lowered by about 10 to 15°C, there is almost no transfer of odor to the fried food, even when frying raw fish and raw vegetables at the same time, the vegetables do not pick up the fishy smell, the generation of harmful substances is suppressed, oil drains quickly after frying, frying can be done at a temperature about 10% lower than the normal frying temperature, frying time is about 15 to 20% shorter than usual, safety is improved with reduced burns, and CO2 is reduced.

[0067] Although various embodiments and modifications of this technology have been described above, this technology is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of this technology. [Explanation of symbols]

[0068] 1: Oil reformer, 10: Electrode section, 100: Negative electrode section, 140: Adjuster, 20: Power module, 200: Positive electrode section, 300: Negative jack pin unit, 400: Positive jack pin unit, 500: Spacer, 610: First flow chamber, 620: Second flow chamber, 90: Oil tank.

Claims

1. A negative electrode section is inserted into the oil in the oil tank, has a negative electrode plate, and is supplied with a negative potential. The positive electrode portion is inserted into the oil, is not in contact with the negative electrode portion, has a positive electrode plate facing the negative electrode plate, and is supplied with a positive potential, An insulating spacer is sandwiched between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate, fixing them so that the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate face each other without contact, and setting the distance between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate to a distance at which electric charge can move. A first flow chamber through which the oil can flow is formed between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate, It is equipped with, The negative electrode portion or the positive electrode portion is a first electrode portion having a plurality of continuously arranged first electrode plates. When the other of the negative electrode portion or the positive electrode portion is a second electrode portion having a plurality of continuously arranged second electrode plates, The first electrode portion is provided continuously with each of the plurality of first electrode plates, and has a plurality of legs that are non-contacting and facing the peripheral edge of each of the second electrode plates, and that contact the plurality of inner surfaces of the conductive oil tank to bring the oil tank to the potential of the first electrode portion. A plurality of second flow chambers through which the oil can flow are formed between the plurality of inner surfaces of the oil tank, which are at the potential of the first electrode portion, and each of the plurality of second electrode plates. It further comprises Oil reforming equipment.

2. A negative electrode section inserted into the oil in the oil tank, having a negative electrode plate and to which a negative potential is supplied, The positive electrode portion is inserted into the oil, is not in contact with the negative electrode portion, has a positive electrode plate facing the negative electrode plate, and is supplied with a positive potential, An insulating spacer is sandwiched between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate, fixing them so that the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate face each other without contact, and setting the distance between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate to a distance at which electric charge can move. A first flow chamber through which the oil can flow is formed between the negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate, It is equipped with, The negative electrode portion or the positive electrode portion is a first electrode portion having a first electrode plate. When the other of the negative electrode portion or the positive electrode portion is a second electrode portion having a second electrode plate, The adjuster further comprises a longitudinal portion that is extendable and retractable in the plane direction of the first electrode plate relative to the first electrode plate, and a stopper portion provided at the tip of the longitudinal portion. The stopper portion of the adjuster and the side surface of the first electrode portion come into contact with a pair of opposing inner surfaces of the oil tank, thereby fixing the first electrode portion within the oil tank. Oil reforming equipment.

3. An oil reforming apparatus according to Claim 1, The plurality of first electrode plates and the plurality of second electrode plates are each fixed by the spacers and face each other to form the first flow chamber, thereby forming a plurality of the first flow chambers. Oil reforming equipment.

4. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 2, The first electrode portion has a plurality of the first electrode plates arranged in a continuous manner, The second electrode portion has a plurality of second electrode plates arranged in a continuous manner, The plurality of first electrode plates and the plurality of second electrode plates are each fixed by the spacers and face each other to form the first flow chamber, thereby forming a plurality of the first flow chambers. Oil reforming equipment.

5. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, The plurality of first electrode plates and the plurality of second electrode plates that constitute each of the plurality of first flow chambers are arranged continuously in an L-shape or a U-shape. Oil reforming equipment.

6. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The negative electrode plate and the positive electrode plate have through holes that allow the oil to circulate in and out of the first circulation chamber. Oil reforming equipment.

7. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 2, The first electrode portion is provided continuously with the first electrode plate, faces the peripheral edge of the second electrode plate without contact, and has legs that contact the conductive oil tank to bring the oil tank to the potential of the first electrode portion. A second flow chamber through which the oil can flow is formed between the oil tank, which is at the potential of the first electrode section, and the second electrode plate. An oil reforming device further equipped with the following.

8. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 2, The longitudinal portion of the adjuster has an elongated through hole extending in the direction of expansion and contraction. Multiple spacers are arranged in the direction of expansion and contraction. Each of the protrusions of the plurality of spacers is inserted into the elongated through-hole and fixed to the first electrode plate, so that the longitudinal portion of the adjuster moves in the direction of the surface of the first electrode plate and becomes expandable and contractible relative to the first electrode plate. Oil reforming equipment.

9. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The first electrode portion is provided continuously with the first electrode plate and is exposed from the oil in the oil tank, and has a first upper portion having a first plug hole for inserting a first jack pin and a second jack stopper hole for inserting a second jack stopper through which a second jack pin is exposed. The second electrode portion is provided continuously with the second electrode plate, exposed from the oil in the oil tank and positioned between the oil and the first upper part, and has a second upper part having a second plug hole for inserting a second jack pin, which is provided in a position opposite to the first upper part and opposite to the second jack stopper hole. Oil reforming equipment.

10. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 9, A power module that supplies potential to the first electrode portion and the second electrode portion, A first cable and a second cable connected to the power module, A first jack pin unit having a first jack pin connected to the first cable and a first jack stopper that exposes the first jack pin, A second jack pin unit having a second jack pin connected to the second cable and a second jack stopper exposing the second jack pin, wherein the length of the second jack stopper is longer than the length of the first jack stopper by the distance between the upper part of the first and the upper part of the second jack pin unit An oil reforming device further equipped with the following.

11. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, A negative DC potential is supplied to the negative electrode plate. A DC positive potential is supplied to the positive electrode plate. Oil reforming equipment.

12. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, A power module that supplies a negative potential to the negative electrode and a positive potential to the positive electrode. An oil reforming device further equipped with the following.

13. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The oil in the oil tank is heated. Oil reforming equipment.

14. The negative electrode portion and the positive electrode portion of the oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 are inserted into the oil in the oil tank, A negative potential is supplied to the negative electrode portion, and a positive potential is supplied to the positive electrode portion. Oil modification method.

15. The negative electrode portion and the positive electrode portion of the oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 are inserted into the oil in the oil tank, A negative potential is supplied to the negative electrode portion, and a positive potential is supplied to the positive electrode portion. The ingredients are placed into the heated oil in the oil tank. Cooking method.

16. An oil reforming apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, The aforementioned oil tank, A heating device capable of heating the oil tank and A cooking utensil equipped with the following features.

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