Constant temperature and humidity device, control system, and control method for constant temperature and humidity device

By controlling temperature and humidity levels post-proofing, the device prevents condensation on humidity sensors, thereby enhancing reliability and extending the lifespan of the device.

JP7880537B2Active Publication Date: 2026-06-26PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO LTD
Filing Date
2022-08-09
Publication Date
2026-06-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing constant temperature and humidity devices suffer from humidity sensor deterioration due to condensation after proofing operations, which affects their performance and reliability.

Method used

The device includes a circulation fan, temperature and humidity sensors, a humidifier, and a heating heater controlled by a control unit to maintain the storage chamber temperature above the proofing temperature and reduce humidity below a threshold, preventing condensation on the humidity sensor.

Benefits of technology

This approach effectively suppresses humidity sensor deterioration by maintaining optimal conditions, ensuring consistent performance and extending the device's lifespan.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

To provide a constant temperature and humidity device that prevents deterioration of a humidity sensor.SOLUTION: A constant temperature and humidity device 100 comprises a first control unit 150 that drives a circulating fan 25 and a warming heater 28 such that the temperature in a storage chamber 22 measured by a temperature sensor 121 becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature in the storage chamber 22 after foiling operation, and drives the circulating fan 25 and the warming heater 28 until the humidity in the storage chamber 22 measured by a humidity sensor 123 drops below a preset first threshold value.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a constant temperature and humidity device, a management system, and a control method for a constant temperature and humidity device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a temperature and humidity control chamber for bread making, which includes a temperature control means 12 for adjusting the temperature in a storage chamber C, a humidity control means 16 for adjusting the humidity in the storage chamber C, and an air circulation means 13 for circulating the air in the storage chamber C.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] [[ID=3�]] The present disclosure provides a constant temperature and humidity device that suppresses deterioration of a humidity sensor.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The constant temperature and humidity device in the present disclosure includes a circulation fan for circulating air in a storage chamber, a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature in the storage chamber, a humidity sensor for measuring the humidity in the storage chamber, a humidifier for humidifying the storage chamber, a heating heater for heating the storage chamber, and a control unit that drives the circulation fan and the heating heater so that the temperature in the storage chamber measured by the temperature sensor becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature in the storage chamber after the koji operation, and drives the circulation fan and the heating heater until the humidity in the storage chamber measured by the humidity sensor drops below a preset first threshold value.

Effects of the Invention

[0006] The constant temperature and humidity device described herein can suppress the deterioration of the humidity sensor. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Perspective view of a constant temperature and humidity chamber [Figure 2] Diagram showing the internal structure of a constant temperature and humidity chamber from the front. [Figure 3] Cross-sectional view of a constant temperature and humidity chamber (AA). [Figure 4] Cross-sectional view of the BB section of a constant temperature and humidity chamber. [Figure 5] Block diagram showing the functional configuration of a constant temperature and humidity device. [Figure 6] System configuration diagram of the management system [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of a drying time management table. [Figure 8] A flowchart illustrating the operation of a constant temperature and humidity device in its first operating mode. [Figure 9] Flowchart showing the operation of the constant temperature and humidity device in its second operating mode. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of the registration information management table. [Figure 11] A diagram showing an example of the configuration of the inventory confirmation management table. [Figure 12] Flowchart showing the operation of the server device [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] (Knowledge and other information that formed the basis of this disclosure) The inventors of the present invention have discovered that when a constant temperature and humidity chamber is shut down immediately after proofing, the water temperature in the humidifier's tank becomes considerably higher than the temperature inside the chamber of the constant temperature and humidity chamber. As a result, the inside of the chamber becomes humidified, the humidity increases, and consequently, condensation occurs on the moisture-sensing material of the humidity sensor, leading to a deterioration in the characteristics of the humidity sensor. The inventors then arrived at the subject matter of this disclosure in order to prevent condensation on the humidity sensor after proofing. Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a constant temperature and humidity device that suppresses the deterioration of humidity sensors.

[0009] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, some unnecessarily detailed explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. The attached drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0010] (Embodiment 1) Embodiment 1 will be described using the drawings. [1-1. Configuration of a constant temperature and humidity system] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the constant temperature and humidity apparatus 100 in Embodiment 1, and Figure 2 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the constant temperature and humidity apparatus 100 from the front side in Embodiment 1. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view AA of Figure 2, and Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view BB of Figure 2. In this specification, the front, back, left, and right directions of the constant temperature and humidity apparatus 100 are used based on Figures 1 and 2. For example, left and right in Figures 1 and 2 correspond to left and right of the constant temperature and humidity apparatus 100. The front and rear of the constant temperature and humidity apparatus 100 are also referred to as the front and back, respectively.

[0011] The constant temperature and humidity device 100 is a device that performs freeze-retard (thawing), preheating, and proofing (fermentation) operations on food products 10 such as donut dough and bread dough, and is also called a dough conditioner. Food products 10 can also be referred to as stored goods, fermentation targets, or other similar items. As shown in FIG. 1, the thermo-hygrostat 100 includes a main body 3 having a heat-insulating box 2 with an open front surface. A door 4 for opening and closing the front opening of the heat-insulating box 2 is attached to the main body 3. The heat-insulating box 2 is configured to be insulated with a foamed type of heat-insulating material, and the door 4 is formed as a heat-insulating door insulated with a heat-insulating material. A machine room 5 (FIG. 2) is provided on one side (the left side of the heat-insulating box 2 in this configuration) of the main body 3.

[0012] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, in the machine room 5, a compressor 6, a condenser 7, a condenser fan 7F, an evaporator 8, and an evaporator fan 8F that constitute a cooling device 131 are arranged. As shown in FIG. 2, the upper part of the left side surface of the heat-insulating box 2 is open, and an auxiliary heat-insulating material 9 is provided above the machine room 5 in a manner of closing this opening from the outside. The evaporator 8 and the evaporator fan 8F are arranged in the auxiliary heat-insulating material 9. The space in the auxiliary heat-insulating material 9 communicates with a cold air passage TC described later through a cold air discharge duct 9B partitioned by a cold air passage partition plate 9A.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the machine room 5 is surrounded by a panel 5P that forms a part of the exterior of the thermo-hygrostat 100, and a control panel 111 is provided on the front surface of the panel 5P. The control panel 111 is electrically connected to a first control unit 150 that controls each part of the thermo-hygrostat 100, and has a function of inputting various instructions from the user and displaying the operating state and the like. The first control unit 150 controls each part of the thermo-hygrostat 100 based on the instructions input through the control panel 111 and the detection results of a sensor group 120 that detects the states of each part of the thermo-hygrostat 100. In this configuration, the first control unit 150 is built into the thermo-hygrostat 100. However, it is not limited to this configuration, and the first control unit 150 may be provided outside the thermo-hygrostat 100, and the thermo-hygrostat 100 may be remotely controlled by the first control unit 150.

[0014] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, an inner box 21 is placed inside the insulated box 2, with a gap TC between it and the inner surface of the insulated box 2 that serves as a cold air passage TC. The inner box 21 is formed in a box shape with an open front and is made of a thermally conductive material. A storage chamber 22 with an open front is provided inside the inner box 21. The storage chamber 22 corresponds to a storage area. Above the storage chamber 22, an upper duct plate 23 is positioned with a gap between it and the inner box 21, which will serve as a downstream warm air passage TW. Also, a fan cover 24 is positioned behind (backside of) the storage chamber 22, with a gap between it and the inner box 21, which will serve as an upstream warm air passage TW. In this way, the upper duct plate 23 and the fan cover 24 partition the warm air passage TW that extends from the back side to the top of the storage chamber 22.

[0015] Multiple rails 41 are provided on the inner surfaces of both sides of the inner boxes 21 that make up the side walls of the storage chamber 22, spaced apart in the vertical direction. The left and right rails 41 support shelves 42 that extend in the front, back, left, and right directions within the storage chamber 22, allowing them to slide freely in the front, back, left, and right directions. The shelves 42 are made of a mesh-like plate material that allows air to pass through, and are also called donut mesh or screens. The rails 41 are sometimes also called donut mesh supports. The constant temperature and humidity device 100 in this configuration can accommodate six shelves 42 spaced apart in the vertical direction. Multiple food items 10 can be placed on each shelf 42 with spacing between them horizontally and vertically. For example, as shown in Figure 4, a total of 25 food items 10 can be placed, with 5 on each side and 5 in the depth direction. Note that Figure 2 shows only a portion of the arranged food items 10 for illustrative purposes. The size, number, and shape of the food items 10 can be changed as appropriate.

[0016] On the opposite side of the storage chamber 22, separated by the fan cover 24, in the warm air passage TW at the back of the storage chamber 22, a circulation fan 25 (hereinafter referred to as the circulation fan 25), a humidifier 26, and an exhaust damper 27 are arranged. The circulation fans 25 are arranged with space between them on the left and right. Each circulation fan 25 draws in air in front of it through an intake port provided in the fan cover 24 and blows the air in the centrifugal direction of the circulation fan 25. Figure 3 shows the airflow by the circulation fans 25 with arrows.

[0017] The humidifier 26 is located in the area below and to the left of the circulation fan 25 and humidifies the air drawn in by the circulation fan 25 under the control of the first control unit 150. The humidifier 26 is a heated type equipped with a water storage tank 26A and a humidifying heater 26B (hereinafter referred to as humidifying heater 26B), but is not limited to this configuration. The exhaust damper 27 is located in the area below and to the right of the circulation fan 25 and opens and closes an exhaust port communicating with the cold air passage TC under the control of the first control unit 150.

[0018] A heating heater 28 (hereinafter referred to as heating heater 28) is located downstream of the warm air passage TW (above the inner box 21). The heating heater 28 heats the air flowing through the warm air passage TW under the control of the first control unit 150. Therefore, as shown in Figure 3, the air blown by the circulation fan 25 to the upper part of Figure 3 is heated by the heating heater 28 downstream of the warm air passage TW. The air heated by the heating heater 28 is supplied to the connecting outlet 31F located at the very downstream end of the warm air passage TW. A dehumidifying fan 29 (hereinafter referred to as the dehumidifying fan 29) is provided above the inner box 21. The dehumidifying fan 29 can dehumidify the storage chamber 22 by introducing air from the cold air passage TC into the inner box 21 under the control of the first control unit 150.

[0019] On the inner surface of door 4 (the side facing the storage room 22), a discharge duct plate 32 is provided to partition the discharge duct 31 that communicates with the connecting discharge section 31F. The discharge duct 31 extends vertically on the front side of the storage room 22 and is a space that guides air from the connecting discharge section 31F from top to bottom. The discharge duct plate 32 is provided with outlets 32A and air deflectors 32B spaced apart vertically. The outlets 32A are provided on both the left and right sides of the storage chamber 22, and the air that flows into the discharge duct 31 from the connecting discharge section 31F is blown out into the storage chamber 22 from each outlet 32A. The air deflectors 32B are provided on the opposite side (front side) of the storage chamber 22 of the discharge duct plate 32, and have the function of diverting the air in the discharge duct 31 to each outlet 32A, and adjusting the direction of the air blown out from each outlet 32A.

[0020] The position and shape of each air outlet 32A and each air deflector 32B are configured to blow air into each of the spaces partitioned by each shelf 42. In this configuration, as shown in Figure 3, each air outlet 32A and each air deflector 32B are configured to blow air diagonally downwards toward each shelf 42 from a position in front of and above each shelf 42. In addition, each air deflector 32B is longer from the top down to prevent air from the connecting air outlet 31F from going too far to the upper levels. The inclination angle of each air deflector 32B is the same. However, the shape and inclination angle of each air deflector 32B may be changed as appropriate.

[0021] With the above configuration, the operation of the circulation fan 25 allows air heated by the heating heater 28 and humidified by the humidifier 26 (which can also be called regulated air or heated air) to be supplied to the storage room 22 via the warm air passage TW, the connecting outlet 31F, and the outlet duct 31, and then drawn in by the circulation fan 25. This allows air to circulate between the warm air passage TW and the storage room 22, making it possible to raise the temperature and humidity inside the storage room 22. In addition, the operation of the dehumidifying fan 29 and the opening and closing of the exhaust damper 27 allow cold air from the cold air passage TC to be introduced into the storage room 22, enabling dehumidification inside the storage room 22. The first control unit 150 acquires the temperature and humidity of the storage chamber 22 using the temperature sensor 121 and humidity sensor 123 included in the sensor group 120, and controls each part so that the storage chamber 22 reaches a predetermined target temperature and humidity. As a result, the constant temperature and humidity device 100 can be operated to create an environment suitable for thawing, preheating, and fermentation in the storage chamber 22.

[0022] Furthermore, the operation of the compressor 6, condenser 7, condenser fan 7F, evaporator 8, and evaporator fan 8F, which constitute the cooling device 131, generates low-temperature, low-humidity air (hereinafter referred to as "cold air"). This cold air circulates through the cold air passage TC around the inner box 21 in a clockwise direction as shown in Figure 2, thereby cooling the inside of the storage chamber 22. The first control unit 150 acquires the temperature of the storage chamber 22 using the temperature sensors included in the sensor group 120, and controls the storage chamber 22 to a target temperature suitable for freezing. As a result, the constant temperature and humidity device 100 can operate to create an environment suitable for freezing in the storage chamber 22.

[0023] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the constant temperature and humidity device 100. The functional configuration of the constant temperature and humidity apparatus 100 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Note that the explanation of the functional parts described with reference to Figures 1 to 4 will be omitted below. The constant temperature and humidity device 100 includes a first control unit 150, which is a computer device. The first control unit 150 is connected to a first communication unit 110, a control panel 111, a float switch 115, a sensor group 120, a heating heater 28, a humidifying heater 26B, a dehumidifying fan 29, a circulation fan 25, an exhaust damper 27, a cooling device 131, a defrosting heater 133, and a condensation prevention heater 135, and the first control unit 150 controls the operation of each of these components.

[0024] The first communication unit 110 is equipped with a connector and interface circuit compliant with a predetermined communication standard such as Ethernet, and communicates data with the server device 300 via the network 50 shown in Figure 6. Ethernet is a registered trademark. In this embodiment, an example in which the first communication unit 110 is connected to the network 50 by wire is described, but the communication method of the first communication unit 110 is not limited to wired, and may be in the form of wireless communication such as Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is a registered trademark.

[0025] The control panel 111 displays images and characters according to the control of the first control unit 150. The control panel 111 can be, for example, a liquid crystal display panel, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panel, a plasma display panel, or the like. Furthermore, the control panel 111 is equipped with buttons and switches to accept user operations. The control panel 111 may also be configured to include touch sensors to detect user touch operations. The control panel 111 corresponds to a reception unit that accepts operations. The first control unit 150 causes the control panel 111 to display temperature and humidity information from each sensor.

[0026] The float switch 115 is a switch that adjusts the water volume in the tank 26A of the humidifier 26.

[0027] The sensor group 120 includes a temperature sensor 121, a humidity sensor 123, a defrost sensor 125, and a filter sensor 127.

[0028] The temperature sensor 121 measures the temperature of the storage chamber 22, and the humidity sensor 123 measures the humidity of the storage chamber 22. The temperature sensor 121 and the humidity sensor 123 output measurement data indicating the measurement results to the first control unit 150. The humidity sensor 123 is installed in a sensor cover (not shown) located on the back of the storage chamber 22. The defrost sensor 125 is a thermistor and is used to determine whether or not to stop the defrosting operation of the defrost heater 133. The defrost sensor 125 outputs measurement data indicating the measured temperature to the first control unit 150. After the defrost heater 133 is powered on, the first control unit 150 determines whether or not to stop the defrosting operation of the defrost heater 133 based on the measurement data from the defrost sensor 125. The filter sensor 127 measures the temperature of the outlet pipe of the condenser 7 of the cooling device 131. The filter sensor 127 outputs measurement data indicating the temperature of the measured filter to the first control unit 150.

[0029] The defrosting heater 133 heats and melts frost that adheres to the cooling device 131 during the cooling operation in which the compressor 6, condenser 7, condenser fan 7F, evaporator 8, and evaporator fan 8F are operated to generate cold air. The condensation prevention heater 135 heats and removes condensation that adheres to the cooling device 131 during the cooling operation.

[0030] Next, the configuration and operation of the first control unit 150 will be described. The first control unit 150 comprises a first storage unit 160 and a first processor 170.

[0031] The first storage unit 160 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). The RAM is used as the arithmetic area for the first processor 170. The RAM also temporarily stores measurement data from each sensor of the sensor group 120. The ROM stores control programs executed by the first processor 170, as well as setting data necessary for controlling the constant temperature and humidity device 100.

[0032] The first processor 170 is a computing device equipped with processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The first processor 170 may consist of a single processor or multiple processors.

[0033] [1-2. System Configuration of the Management System] Figure 6 shows the system configuration of management system 1. Here, the configuration of the management system 1, including the constant temperature and humidity device 100, will be described with reference to Figure 6. The management system 1 includes a constant temperature and humidity device 100, as well as a portable device 200 and a server device 300, and these devices are connected via a network 50 to enable data communication. The network 50 includes, for example, the internet, a WAN (Wide Area Network), a LAN (Local Area Network), telephone lines, public telephone lines, dedicated lines, provider equipment, wireless base stations, etc.

[0034] [1-3. Configuration of the portable device] The portable device 200 may include, for example, a tablet or notebook computer, or a smartphone. The portable device 200 includes a second communication unit 210, a touch panel 220, and a second control unit 230.

[0035] The second communication unit 210 executes a wireless communication protocol such as Wi-Fi to connect to the network 50 and performs wireless communication with the server device 300. The second communication unit 210 may also be configured to perform mobile data communication using a mobile communication network such as LTE (Long Term Evolution) or a fifth-generation mobile communication system. LTE is a registered trademark.

[0036] The touch panel 220 comprises a display panel such as a liquid crystal display and a touch sensor. The display panel and touch sensor are not shown in the diagram. The touch panel 220 displays characters, graphics, etc., under the control of the second control unit 230. The touch panel 220 also detects the position of the display panel touched by the user using the touch sensor and outputs coordinate information indicating the detected position to the second control unit 230.

[0037] The second control unit 230 is a computer device comprising a second storage unit 240 and a second processor 250.

[0038] The second memory unit 240 includes RAM and ROM. The RAM is used as the arithmetic area for the second processor 250. The ROM stores the OS (Operating System) and application programs 241 executed by the second processor 250. The OS is not shown in the diagram. Hereafter, the application program 241 will be referred to as APP241.

[0039] The second processor 250 is a processing unit equipped with a processor such as a CPU or MPU. The second processor 250 may be composed of a single processor or multiple processors.

[0040] [1-4. Server Device Configuration] The server device 300 is a device that manages the operation of the constant temperature and humidity device 100, and is a computer device that includes a third communication unit 310 and a third control unit 330.

[0041] The third communication unit 310 is equipped with a connector and interface circuit compliant with a predetermined communication standard such as Ethernet, and communicates data with the constant temperature and humidity device 100 and the portable device 200 via the network 50.

[0042] The third control unit 330 is a computer device comprising a third storage unit 340 and a third processor 350.

[0043] The third storage unit 340 includes RAM and ROM. The third storage unit 340 may also be configured to include auxiliary storage devices such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) or an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The RAM is used as the arithmetic area for the third processor 350. The ROM stores control programs executed by the third processor 350, drying time management tables 341, and the like.

[0044] Figure 7 shows an example of the configuration of the drying time management table 341. The configuration of the drying time management table 341 will be explained with reference to Figure 7. Each record in the drying time management table 341 includes device identification information, communication information, login information, and the drying start time.

[0045] The device identification information is information that uniquely identifies the constant temperature and humidity device 100, and may include, for example, the serial number or model name of the constant temperature and humidity device 100. The communication information is information used for communication with the constant temperature and humidity device 100, and includes, for example, an IP (Internet Protocol) address and a MAC (Media Access Control) address.

[0046] Login information is information used to authenticate a user, and includes, for example, an ID (identification) and a password. The drying start time indicates the time when the heating heater 28 and circulation fan 25 of the constant temperature and humidity device 100 are activated to dry the inside of the device. The drying start time is information registered by users authenticated through their login credentials. Furthermore, this drying start time can be changed by the user.

[0047] When the drying start time registered in the drying time management table 341 arrives, the third control unit 330 sends a drying start instruction signal to the constant temperature and humidity device 100. When the constant temperature and humidity device 100 receives the drying start instruction signal from the server device 300, it operates the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 to dry the inside of the constant temperature and humidity device 100.

[0048] [1-5. Operation of a constant temperature and humidity device] The first control unit 150 operates the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 when the proofing operation is completed, or when the drying button for drying the storage chamber 22 is pressed, or when it receives a drying start instruction signal from the server device 300. The drying button is provided on the control panel 111. Hereinafter, the operating mode in which the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 are operated after the proofing operation is completed will be referred to as the first operating mode. The mode in which the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 are operated when the drying button is pressed or when a drying start instruction signal is received from the server device 300 is called the second operating mode.

[0049] When the proofing operation is completed, or when the drying button is pressed or a drying start instruction signal is received, the first control unit 150 operates the heating heater 28 and acquires the measurement data from the temperature sensor 121 from the first storage unit 160. Based on the measurement data, the first control unit 150 controls the output of the heating heater 28 so that the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 reaches a preset temperature. The first control unit 150 also operates the circulation fan 25 to circulate air at the set temperature inside the storage chamber 22. The set temperature is set to be higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 after proofing. For example, the set temperature is set to 40°C. The set temperature is set to 40°C to suppress the decrease in temperature of the walls inside the storage chamber 22, but the set temperature is not limited to 40°C; any temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 after proofing is acceptable.

[0050] By operating the circulation fan 25 to circulate air at the set temperature into the storage chamber 22, the wall temperature inside the storage chamber 22 gradually rises. This suppresses the temperature drop inside the cover where the humidity sensor 123 is installed. Furthermore, by operating the circulation fan 25 to circulate air at the set temperature into the storage chamber 22, the water temperature in the tank 26A of the humidifier 26 gradually decreases. Although the water temperature in tank 26A is constant after proofing, by operating the circulation fan 25 to circulate air at the set temperature into the storage chamber 22, the water temperature in tank 26A gradually decreases. This suppresses the rise in humidity inside the storage chamber 22.

[0051] The first control unit 150 operates the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 and maintains the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 until a preset time has elapsed. This preset time is set to allow sufficient circulation of air at the set temperature within the storage chamber 22. In the first mode, the preset time is set to the first preset time, and in the second operating mode, it is set to the second preset time.

[0052] The second setting time is set to a longer time than the first setting time. This is because the first operating mode is an operation that is performed automatically after proofing, whereas the second operating mode is an operation that is performed when the drying button is pressed or when a drying start instruction signal is received, and more reliable drying inside the storage chamber 22 is desired. The first setting time is set to 10 minutes, for example, and the second setting time is set to 30 minutes, for example, but it is not limited to these times. For example, the first setting time may be set to a time of 10 minutes or more, such as 15 minutes or 20 minutes. Also, the second setting time may be set to a time of 30 minutes or more, such as 35 minutes or 40 minutes, or to a time shorter than 30 minutes, such as 25 minutes or 20 minutes.

[0053] The first control unit 150 starts the first operating mode by operating the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25, and after a first set time has elapsed, it acquires measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 from the first storage unit 160. Based on the acquired measurement data, the first control unit 150 determines whether the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below a preset first threshold. When the operating mode is the first operating mode, the first threshold is used as the threshold for determining the humidity inside the storage chamber 22. In this embodiment, the first threshold is set to 95%, but the first threshold is not limited to 95%, and may be, for example, 90%.

[0054] The first control unit 150 stops the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 and terminates the first operating mode when the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below a first threshold. When the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below a first threshold, the first control unit 150 determines that the rise in humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is suppressed and the decrease in temperature inside the sensor cover equipped with the humidity sensor 123 is suppressed. Therefore, condensation on the humidity sensor 123 can be suppressed and the deterioration of the characteristics of the humidity sensor 123 can be suppressed.

[0055] Furthermore, if the humidity in the storage room 22 is above a first threshold, the first control unit 150 determines whether the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 based on the measurement data of the humidity sensor 123 is equal to or greater than a third setting time, after the first setting time has elapsed. In other words, it determines whether the time elapsed since the heating heater 28 and circulation fan 25 were activated after the proofing operation stopped is equal to or greater than the first setting time plus the third setting time. The third setting time is set to a time longer than the first setting time. The third setting time is set to, for example, 1 hour, but it may also be 1 hour and 30 minutes or 2 hours, etc. Alternatively, the third setting time may be a time shorter than 1 hour, such as 45 minutes or 50 minutes. The first control unit 150 stops the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 if, even if the humidity in the storage room 22 is above a first threshold, the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 based on the measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 has elapsed beyond a first set time and is equal to or greater than a third set time. In other words, it terminates the first operating mode. The operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 is stopped from the standpoint of energy saving. In this embodiment, even if the humidity in the storage room 22 is above a first threshold, the first control unit 150 stops the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 if the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 based on the measurement data of the humidity sensor 123 is after the first set time has elapsed and is equal to or greater than the third set time. Alternatively, the first control unit 150 may continue the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 until the humidity in the storage room 22 falls below the first threshold.

[0056] Next, we will explain the second operating mode. The first control unit 150 acquires measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 from the first storage unit 160 when the elapsed time since starting the second operating mode by operating the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 exceeds the second set time. Based on the acquired measurement data, the first control unit 150 determines whether the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below a preset second threshold. When the operating mode is the second operating mode, the second threshold is used as the threshold for determining the humidity inside the storage chamber 22. In this embodiment, the second threshold is set to 90%, but the second threshold is not limited to 90% and may be, for example, 85%. Furthermore, the second threshold is set to a smaller value than the first threshold. This is because the second operating mode aims to dry the inside of the storage chamber 22 more reliably than the first operating mode and suppress condensation on the humidity sensor 123.

[0057] The first control unit 150 stops the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 and terminates the second operating mode when the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below the second threshold. When the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below the second threshold, the first control unit 150 determines that the rise in humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is suppressed and the decrease in temperature inside the sensor cover equipped with the humidity sensor 123 is suppressed. Therefore, condensation on the humidity sensor 123 can be suppressed and the deterioration of the characteristics of the humidity sensor 123 can be suppressed.

[0058] Furthermore, if the humidity in the storage room 22 is above the second threshold, the first control unit 150 determines whether or not the fourth set time has elapsed since it started monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 based on the measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 after the second set time has elapsed. It also determines whether or not the fourth set time has elapsed in addition to the second set time since the drying button was pressed or the drying start instruction signal was received and the heating heater 28 and circulation fan 25 were activated. The fourth set time is set to a time longer than the second set time. The first control unit 150 stops the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 if the humidity inside the storage room 22 is above the second threshold, but the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity inside the storage room 22 based on the measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 is above the fourth set time. In other words, it terminates the second operating mode. The operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 is stopped from the standpoint of energy saving. In this embodiment, even if the humidity in the storage room 22 is above the second threshold, the first control unit 150 stops the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 if the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 based on the measurement data of the humidity sensor 123 is after the second set time has elapsed and is equal to or greater than the fourth set time. Alternatively, the first control unit 150 may continue the operation of the heating heater 28 and the circulation fan 25 until the humidity in the storage room 22 falls below the second threshold.

[0059] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the first control unit 150 in the first operating mode. The operation of the first control unit 150 in the first operating mode will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 8. First, the first control unit 150 determines whether or not proofing has been started (step SA1). If proofing has not been started (step SA1 / NO), the first control unit 150 does not perform the processing and determination from step SA2 onward.

[0060] If the first control unit 150 starts the proofing operation (step SA1 / YES), it then determines whether or not the proofing operation has been stopped (step SA2). If the first control unit 150 has not stopped the proofing operation (step SA2 / NO), it waits until the proofing operation is stopped.

[0061] When the proofing operation is stopped (step SA2 / YES), the first control unit 150 activates the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 (step SA3) to circulate air adjusted to the set temperature into the storage chamber 22. The first control unit 150 then acquires the measurement data from the temperature sensor 121 from the first storage unit 160 (step SA4) and determines, based on the measurement data, whether the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 matches the preset temperature (step SA5). If the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 does not match the preset temperature (step SA5 / NO), the first control unit 150 changes the output of the heating heater 28 (step SA6).

[0062] The first control unit 150 determines whether a preset first set time has elapsed since operating the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 when the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 matches the set temperature (step SA5 / YES) or when the output of the heating heater 28 is changed (step SA6) (step SA7). If the first control unit 150 determines that the first set time has not elapsed (step SA7 / NO), it returns to step SA4 and acquires the measurement data of the temperature sensor 121 from the first storage unit 160 again.

[0063] When the first control unit 150 has operated the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 and a preset first set time has elapsed (step SA7 / YES), it acquires measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 from the first storage unit 160 (step SA8). Based on the acquired measurement data from the humidity sensor 123, the first control unit 150 determines whether or not the humidity inside the storage room 22 is above a preset first threshold (step SA9).

[0064] If the humidity inside the storage room 22 is above a first threshold (step SA9 / YES), the first control unit 150 acquires measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 in step SA8 and determines whether the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity inside the storage room 22 is above a preset third setting time (step SA10). If the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 is not equal to or greater than the third set time (step SA10 / NO), the first control unit 150 returns to step SA8 and acquires the next measurement data from the first storage unit 160 (step SA8).

[0065] Furthermore, if the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below a first threshold (step SA9 / NO), the first control unit 150 stops the operation of the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 (step SA11). Furthermore, if the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 has elapsed after the first set time has elapsed and is equal to or greater than the third set time (step SA10 / YES), the first control unit 150 will also stop the operation of the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 (step SA11).

[0066] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the second operation of the first control unit 150. The second operation of the first control unit 150 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 9. First, the first control unit 150 determines whether the drying button on the control panel 111 has been pressed, or whether it has received a drying start instruction signal from the server device 300 (step SB1). If the first control unit 150 has not received a press operation for the drying button, or has not received a drying start instruction signal from the server device 300 (step SB1 / NO), it does not perform the processing and determination from step SB2 onward.

[0067] When the first control unit 150 receives a press operation of the drying button or receives a drying start instruction signal from the server device 300 (step SB1 / YES), it operates the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 (step SB2). The first control unit 150 then acquires the measurement data from the temperature sensor 121 from the first storage unit 160 (step SB3), and based on the measurement data, determines whether the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 matches a preset temperature (step SB4). If the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 does not match the preset temperature (step SB4 / NO), the first control unit 150 changes the output of the heating heater 28 (step SB5).

[0068] The first control unit 150 determines whether a preset second set time has elapsed since operating the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 if the temperature inside the storage chamber 22 matches the set temperature (step SB4 / YES), or if the output of the heating heater 28 is changed (step SB5) (step SB6). The second set time is set to be longer than the first set time. If the first control unit 150 determines that the second set time has not elapsed (step SB6 / NO), it returns to step SB4 and acquires the measurement data from the temperature sensor 121 again from the first storage unit 160.

[0069] If the first control unit 150 has operated the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 and a preset second set time has elapsed (step SB6 / YES), it acquires measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 from the first storage unit 160 (step SB7). Based on the acquired measurement data from the humidity sensor 123, the first control unit 150 determines whether the humidity inside the storage room 22 is above a preset second threshold (step SB8). The second threshold is set to a value smaller than the first threshold.

[0070] If the humidity inside the storage room 22 is above the second threshold (step SB8 / YES), the first control unit 150 acquires measurement data from the humidity sensor 123 in step SB7 and determines whether the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity inside the storage room 22 is above the preset fourth setting time (step SB9). If the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 is not equal to or greater than the fourth set time (step SB9 / NO), the first control unit 150 returns to step SB7 and acquires the next measurement data from the first storage unit 160 (step SB7).

[0071] Furthermore, if the humidity inside the storage chamber 22 is below the second threshold (step SB8 / NO), the first control unit 150 stops the operation of the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 (step SB10). Furthermore, if the elapsed time since the start of monitoring the humidity in the storage room 22 is equal to or greater than the fourth set time (step SB9 / YES), the first control unit 150 also stops the operation of the circulation fan 25 and the heating heater 28 (step SB10).

[0072] (Embodiment 2) Embodiment 2 will be described using the drawings. The system configuration of Embodiment 2 is the same as the system configuration of Management System 1 shown in Figure 6. The differences between the constant temperature and humidity device 100, portable device 200, and server device 300 of Embodiment 2 and those of Embodiment 1 will be explained below.

[0073] [2-1. Configuration of the portable device] When an APP 241 is selected by the user, the second processor 250 of the portable device 200 executes the selected APP 241 and accesses the website provided by the server device 300. Subsequently, the second processor 250 displays the web page received from the server device 300 on the touch panel 220. The web page includes screens such as an authentication screen for authenticating the user, a registration information input screen for the user's information, and a modification screen for changing registered information. Details of the registration information entered on the input screen will be described later with reference to Figure 10.

[0074] Furthermore, the second processor 250 receives push notifications from the server device 300. These push notifications inform the user of the time when the food 10 should be placed in the storage room 22 of the constant temperature and humidity device 100. The second processor 250 displays the push notifications on the touch panel 220. Furthermore, when the second processor 250 receives a push notification from the server device 300, it activates the APP 241 and displays a screen on the touch panel 220 confirming whether or not the food 10 has been placed in the storage chamber 22 of the constant temperature and humidity device 100. When the second processor 250 receives confirmation via the touch panel 220 that the food 10 has been placed in the storage chamber 22 of the constant temperature and humidity device 100, it sends a confirmation response to the server device 300 to that effect.

[0075] [2-2. Server Device Configuration and Operation] The server device 300 manages the operation of the constant temperature and humidity chamber 100. In other words, the server device 300 instructs the constant temperature and humidity chamber 100 to start processes such as freezing, retarding, preheating, and proofing. At this time, the server device 300 instructs the constant temperature and humidity chamber 100 on the processing temperature, humidity, processing time, etc. Furthermore, the server device 300 notifies the portable device 200 of the timing for storing the food 10 in the constant temperature and humidity device 100, and the timing for when the food 10 processed by the constant temperature and humidity device 100 can be removed from the constant temperature and humidity device 100.

[0076] Figure 10 shows an example of the configuration of the registration information management table 343. The third storage unit 340 of the server device 300 stores the registration information management table 343 and the inventory confirmation management table 345. The registration information management table 343 is a table that stores registration information entered by the user via the portable device 200. Each record in the registration information management table 343 includes device identification information, communication information, login information, token, receiving time, start time, shipping time, and processing details. The communication information is acquired by the server device 300 and registered in the registration information management table 343. The device identification information, communication information, and login information are the same as those registered in the drying time management table 341.

[0077] The token is information that identifies the APP241 installed on the mobile device 200, and is used when sending push notifications from the server device 300 to the mobile device 200. The receiving time is information about the time when the food 10 before processing is placed into the constant temperature and humidity device 100. The start time is information about the time when the constant temperature and humidity device 100 should begin processing. The time of departure is information indicating that the constant temperature and humidity device 100 has completed processing and that the processed food 10 can be removed from the constant temperature and humidity device 100. The processing details include setting information for each process: freezing, retarding, preheating, and proofing. This setting information includes, for example, settings for processing temperature, humidity, and processing time.

[0078] Figure 11 shows an example of the configuration of the inventory confirmation management table 345. The inventory confirmation management table 345 is a table that registers the confirmation responses received from the portable device 200. Each record in the Inbound Confirmation Management Table 345 contains equipment identification information and inbound confirmation information. A record is generated in the Inbound Confirmation Management Table 345 for each piece of equipment identification information. The inventory confirmation information includes a date field and a field (hereinafter referred to as the "record field") to record whether or not an acknowledgment has been received from the portable device 200. The circle symbol shown in Figure 10 indicates that an acknowledgment has been received.

[0079] When a predetermined time has passed since the scheduled time for receiving goods, the server device 300 sends a push notification or email to the mobile device 200 informing it that the scheduled time for receiving goods has passed. In this embodiment, the case of notification by push notification will be described. When using push notification, a token that identifies the APP 241 installed on the mobile device 200 is registered in the registration information management table 343. When receiving notification by email, an email address is registered in the registration information management table 343.

[0080] The user checks the push notification and confirms that the food 10, which is awaiting processing, has been placed in the constant temperature and humidity chamber 100. When the portable device 200 receives the push notification, it launches APP 241 and displays a screen to confirm whether or not the food 10 has been placed in the storage chamber 22 of the constant temperature and humidity chamber 100. When the portable device 200 receives confirmation that the food 10 has been placed in the storage chamber 22 of the constant temperature and humidity chamber 100, it sends a confirmation response to the server device 300. When the server device 300 receives the confirmation response from the portable device 200, it records that it has been confirmed in the record field for the corresponding date.

[0081] The third processor 350 is a processing unit equipped with a processor such as a CPU or MPU. The third processor 350 may be composed of a single processor or multiple processors.

[0082] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the operation of the third control unit 330. The operation of the third control unit 330 will be explained with reference to the flowchart shown in Figure 12. First, the third control unit 330 determines whether or not it has received access from the portable device 200 (step SC1). If the third control unit 330 receives access from the portable device 200 (step SC1 / YES), it sends a request to the portable device 200 to obtain login information and obtains the login information by receiving it from the portable device 200 (step SC2).

[0083] Next, the third control unit 330 authenticates the acquired login information using the login information registered in the registration information management table 343. If authentication fails (step SC3 / NO), the third control unit 330 returns to step S2 and sends another request to the portable device 200 to acquire login information. If authentication is successful (step SC3 / YES), the third control unit 330 displays an input screen on the portable device 200 where registered information can be entered, or a modification screen where registered information can be modified, on the touch panel 220 of the portable device 200 (step SC4).

[0084] Next, the third control unit 330 determines whether or not it has received a signal from the portable device 200 corresponding to a confirmation operation that confirms the operation (step SC5). If the third control unit 330 has not received a signal corresponding to a confirmation operation (step SC5 / NO), it waits until it receives a signal corresponding to a confirmation operation.

[0085] When the third control unit 330 receives a signal corresponding to a confirmation operation (step SC5 / YES), it registers the registration information registered by the user in the registration information management table 343, or updates the registration information if it is information already registered in the registration information management table 343 (step SC6).

[0086] Furthermore, if the third control unit 330 does not accept access from the portable device 200 (step SC1 / NO), it determines whether or not there is a constant temperature and humidity device 100 that is a predetermined time away from its storage time (step SC7). The third control unit 330 determines whether or not there is a constant temperature and humidity device 100 that is a predetermined time away from its storage time by referring to the registration information management table 343.

[0087] When the third control unit 330 detects a constant temperature and humidity device 100 that is a predetermined time away from its storage time (step SC7 / YES), it obtains a token registered in the record of the detected constant temperature and humidity device 100. The third control unit 330 then pushes a notification of the storage time to the obtained token (step SC8). As a result, the touch panel 220 of the portable device 200 displays the push notification of the storage time.

[0088] Next, the third control unit 330 determines whether or not it has received an acknowledgment from the portable device 200 (step SC9). If the third control unit 330 has not received an acknowledgment from the portable device 200 (step SC9 / NO), it determines whether or not it is time to start processing (step SC10). If it is not time to start processing (step SC10 / NO), the third control unit 330 returns to the determination in step SC9.

[0089] Furthermore, when the processing start time arrives (step SC10 / NO), the third control unit 330 pushes a notification to the portable device 200 that the processing start time has elapsed. After this, the third control unit 330 returns to the determination in step SC1. When a user wants the constant temperature and humidity device 100 to perform a process, the user either directly operates the constant temperature and humidity device 100 to start the process, or activates APP 241 to send an acknowledgment to the server device 300 and changes the processing start time registered in the registration information management table 343.

[0090] When the third control unit 330 receives an acknowledgment (step SC9 / YES), it registers that the acknowledgment has been confirmed in the corresponding date record field of the inventory confirmation management table 345 (step S11). Next, the third control unit 330 determines whether or not it is time for the processing to begin (step SC12). If it is not time for the processing to begin (step SC12 / NO), the third control unit 330 waits until it is time for the processing to begin.

[0091] When the processing start time arrives (step SC12 / YES), the third control unit 330 sends an instruction signal to the constant temperature and humidity device 100 to start processing (step SC13). After that, the third control unit 330 returns to the processing in step SC1.

[0092] Furthermore, if the third control unit 330 determines in step SC7 that there are no constant temperature and humidity devices 100 that are a predetermined time away from the storage time (step SC7 / NO), it determines whether there are any constant temperature and humidity devices 100 that are a predetermined time away from the storage time (step SC14). If there are any constant temperature and humidity devices 100 that are a predetermined time away from the storage time (step SC14 / YES), the third control unit 330 obtains a token associated with the identification information of this constant temperature and humidity device 100 from the registration information management table 343. The third control unit 330 sends a push notification to the obtained token indicating that the storage time is approaching (step SC15). After that, the third control unit 330 returns to the processing in step SC1.

[0093] [3. Other Embodiments] (Note) Based on the above description of embodiments, the following technologies are disclosed.

[0094] (Technology 1) A circulating fan to circulate the air inside the storage area, A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature inside the storage compartment, A humidity sensor for measuring the humidity inside the storage compartment, A humidifier for humidifying the inside of the storage compartment, A heating heater for heating the inside of the storage compartment, After the proofing operation for fermenting the contents in the storage chamber is stopped, the circulating fan and the heating heater are driven so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by the temperature sensor, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber after the proofing operation. A control unit drives the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below a preset first threshold. A constant temperature and humidity device equipped with these features.

[0095] With this configuration, after the proofing operation is stopped, the circulation fan and heating heater are driven to ensure that the temperature inside the storage chamber reaches a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber after the proofing operation. The circulation fan and heating heater are driven until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below a first threshold. Therefore, the decrease in temperature inside the storage chamber is suppressed, thereby suppressing the condensation of moisture inside the storage chamber. As the circulation fan and heating heater are driven until the humidity inside the storage chamber falls below a first threshold, condensation on the elements constituting the humidity sensor can be reduced.

[0096] (Technology 2) A circulating fan to circulate the air inside the storage area, A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature inside the storage compartment, A humidity sensor for measuring the humidity inside the storage compartment, A humidifier for humidifying the inside of the storage compartment, A heating heater for heating the inside of the storage compartment, The reception desk that accepts requests, When the reception unit receives an operation, the control unit drives the circulation fan and the heating heater so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by the temperature sensor, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber, and drives the circulation fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below a preset second threshold. A constant temperature and humidity device equipped with these features.

[0097] With this configuration, when the reception unit receives an operation, it drives the circulation fan and heating heater to bring the temperature inside the storage compartment to the set temperature, and continues to drive the circulation fan and heating heater until the humidity inside the storage compartment, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the decrease in temperature inside the storage compartment is suppressed, which suppresses the condensation of moisture inside the compartment, and since the circulation fan and heating heater are driven until the humidity inside the compartment falls below the second threshold, condensation that occurs on the elements constituting the humidity sensor can be reduced.

[0098] (Technology 3) The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to Technology 1, wherein the control unit, after stopping the proofing operation, drives the circulating fan and the heating heater, and after a preset first set time has elapsed, determines whether the humidity inside the storage chamber measured by the humidity sensor has fallen below the first threshold, and if it determines that the humidity inside the storage chamber has fallen below the first threshold, stops driving the circulating fan and the heating heater.

[0099] This configuration allows the air heated by the heating element to circulate within the storage chamber by a circulation fan, suppressing the execution of unnecessary processes such as determining whether the humidity inside the storage chamber has fallen below a first threshold until the temperature inside the storage chamber does not drop.

[0100] (Technology 4) The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to Technology 2, wherein the control unit, after the reception unit has received the operation and started driving the circulation fan and the heating heater, determines whether the humidity inside the storage chamber measured by the humidity sensor has fallen below the second threshold after a preset second set time has elapsed, and if it determines that the humidity inside the storage chamber has fallen below the second threshold, it stops driving the circulation fan and the heating heater.

[0101] This configuration allows the air heated by the heating element to circulate within the storage area by a circulation fan, suppressing the execution of unnecessary processes such as determining whether the humidity inside the storage area has fallen below a second threshold until the temperature inside the storage area does not drop.

[0102] (Technology 5) The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to Technology 3, wherein the control unit drives the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the first threshold, or until a preset third setting time has elapsed after the first setting time has elapsed.

[0103] This configuration allows the circulation fan and heating heater to be shut off after a third set time has elapsed, even if the humidity inside the storage chamber has not fallen below the first threshold. Therefore, the power consumption of the constant temperature and humidity device can be reduced if the humidity inside the storage chamber does not fall below the first threshold.

[0104] (Technology 6) The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to Technology 4, wherein the control unit drives the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the second threshold, or until a preset fourth setting time has elapsed after the second setting time has elapsed.

[0105] This configuration allows the circulation fan and heating heater to be shut off after the fourth set time has elapsed, even if the humidity inside the storage chamber has not fallen below the second threshold. Therefore, the power consumption of the constant temperature and humidity device can be reduced if the humidity inside the storage chamber does not fall below the second threshold.

[0106] (Technology 7) The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to technology 2 or 4, wherein the second threshold is set to a value lower than the first threshold.

[0107] With this configuration, when the reception unit receives an operation and drives the circulation fan and heating heater, the humidity inside the storage chamber can be reduced compared to when the circulation fan and heating heater are driven after proofing. Therefore, drying inside the storage chamber can be promoted, and condensation that occurs on the elements constituting the humidity sensor can be effectively reduced.

[0108] (Technology 8) A management system comprising a constant temperature and humidity device and a server device for managing the constant temperature and humidity device, The constant temperature and humidity apparatus is, A circulating fan to circulate the air inside the storage area, A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature inside the storage compartment, A humidity sensor for measuring the humidity inside the storage compartment, A humidifier for humidifying the inside of the storage compartment, A heating heater for heating the inside of the storage compartment, A communication unit that communicates with the aforementioned server device, When the communication unit receives instructions from the server device, the control unit drives the circulation fan and the heating heater so that the temperature inside the storage compartment, as measured by the temperature sensor, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage compartment, and drives the circulation fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage compartment, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below a preset second threshold. A management system equipped with the following features.

[0109] In this configuration, when the communication unit receives instructions from the server device, it drives the circulation fan and heating heater to bring the temperature inside the storage compartment to the set temperature, and continues to drive the circulation fan and heating heater until the humidity inside the storage compartment, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the decrease in temperature inside the storage compartment is suppressed, which suppresses the condensation of moisture inside the compartment, and since the circulation fan and heating heater are driven until the humidity inside the compartment falls below the second threshold, condensation that occurs on the elements constituting the humidity sensor can be reduced.

[0110] (Technology 9) The server device is The system includes a storage unit that stores a table for registering identification information of the constant temperature and humidity device, communication information used for communication with the constant temperature and humidity device, and the setting of the start time for operating the circulating fan and the heating heater. The management system according to claim 8, wherein the server device, when the start time registered in the table arrives, communicates with the constant temperature and humidity device using the communication information and instructs it to operate the circulating fan and the heating heater.

[0111] With this configuration, the inside of the constant temperature and humidity chamber can be dried by instructions from the server device at a pre-registered start time, thereby improving user convenience.

[0112] (Technology 10) The aforementioned table contains the identification information of the constant temperature and humidity device, authentication information for authenticating the user, and is registered as follows: The management system according to Technical Reference 9, wherein the server device accepts a change to the start time of the table in response to instructions received from a portable device operated by a user authenticated by the authentication information.

[0113] This configuration allows users to change the drying start time registered on the server device using a portable device, thereby improving user convenience.

[0114] (Technology 11) After the proofing operation, which ferments the contents inside the storage chamber, is stopped, the circulation fan that circulates the air inside the storage chamber and the heating heater that warms the inside of the storage chamber are driven so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by a temperature sensor that measures the temperature inside the storage chamber, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber after the proofing operation. A control method for a constant temperature and humidity device, comprising driving the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by a humidity sensor that measures the humidity inside the storage chamber, falls below a preset first threshold.

[0115] As a result, after the proofing operation is stopped, the circulation fan and heating heater are driven to ensure that the temperature inside the storage chamber reaches a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber after the proofing operation. The circulation fan and heating heater are also driven until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the first threshold. Therefore, the decrease in temperature inside the storage chamber is suppressed, which inhibits the condensation of moisture inside the storage chamber. As the circulation fan and heating heater are driven until the humidity inside the storage chamber falls below the first threshold, condensation on the elements constituting the humidity sensor can be reduced.

[0116] (Technology 12) When an operation is received by the reception unit of the constant temperature and humidity device, or when instructions are received from the server device, the circulation fan that circulates the air inside the storage chamber and the heating heater that heats the inside of the storage chamber are driven so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by the temperature sensor that measures the temperature inside the storage chamber, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber. A control method for a constant temperature and humidity device, comprising: driving the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by a humidity sensor that measures the humidity inside the storage chamber, falls below a preset second threshold.

[0117] As a result, when the reception unit receives an operation request or an instruction is received from the server device, the circulating fan and heating heater are driven to bring the temperature inside the storage chamber to the set temperature, and the circulating fan and heating heater are driven until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the second threshold. Therefore, the decrease in temperature inside the storage chamber is suppressed, which suppresses the condensation of moisture inside the storage chamber, and since the circulating fan and heating heater are driven until the humidity inside the storage chamber falls below the second threshold, condensation that occurs on the elements constituting the humidity sensor can be reduced.

[0118] As described above, Embodiment 1 and Embodiment 2 have been explained as examples disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited thereto and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in Embodiment 1.

[0119] For example, in the configuration of management system 1 shown in Figure 6, an example is shown in which the constant temperature and humidity device 100 and the server device 300 are configured as separate units. However, the constant temperature and humidity device 100 may also be configured to have the functions of the server device 300. Furthermore, in the embodiments 1 and 2 described above, a control panel 111 was shown as an example of a reception unit. However, the first communication unit 110 may also function as a reception unit, receiving signals transmitted from an external device such as a server device 300, and the first control unit 150 controlling the operation of drying the inside of the constant temperature and humidity device 100 based on the signals received by the first communication unit 110.

[0120] Furthermore, the configuration of the constant temperature and humidity apparatus 100 shown in Figures 1 to 5 is merely an example, and the specific implementation is not particularly limited. In other words, it is not necessarily required that hardware corresponding to each part be implemented individually; it is also possible to configure the system so that a single processor executes a program to realize the functions of each part. In addition, some of the functions realized by software in the above-described embodiment may be implemented as hardware, or some of the functions realized by hardware may be implemented as software.

[0121] The operational step units shown in Figures 8 and 9 are divided according to the main processing content to facilitate understanding of the operation, and the operation is not limited by the way the processing units are divided or the names of the processing units. Depending on the processing content, it may be further divided into more step units. Alternatively, it may be divided so that one step unit includes even more processing. Furthermore, the order of the steps may be changed as appropriate, as long as it does not hinder the intent of this disclosure. The same applies to the operational step units shown in Figure 12.

[0122] Since the embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes of the technology described herein, various modifications, substitutions, additions, omissions, etc., can be made within the scope of the claims or equivalents thereof. [Industrial applicability]

[0123] As described above, the constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to the present invention can be used for proofing food products 10. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0124] 1 Management System 2. Insulated box 3 Main unit 4 doors 5 Machine room 5P Panel 6. Compressor 7. Condenser 7F Condenser fan 8 Evaporator 8F Evaporator Fan 9. Auxiliary insulation 9A Cold air passage partition plate 9B Cold air discharge duct 10 Food 17 Server Processors 21 Inner box 22 Storage Rooms 23 Upper duct plate 24 Fan Cover 25 Circulation fan 26 Humidifying Heater 26 Humidifier 26A Tank 26B Humidifying Heater 27 Exhaust damper 28 Heating heater 29 Dehumidifying fan 31. Outlet duct 31F Communication outlet 32. Discharge duct plate 32A Air outlet 32B Wind direction plate 41 rails 42 shelves 50 Networks 100 Constant temperature and humidity device 111 Control Panel 115 Float switch 120 sensor group 121 Temperature Sensor 123 Humidity Sensor 125 Defrost sensor 127 Filter Sensor 131 Cooling device 133 Defrosting heater 135 Anti-condensation heater 150 First Control Unit 160 1st memory section 170 First Processor 180 First Communications Department 200 portable devices 210 Second Communications Department 220 Touch Panel 250 Second Control Unit 240 2nd memory section 241 APP 235 Second Processor 300 Server Devices 310 Third Communications Department 330 Third Control Unit 340 Third memory section 341 Drying Time Management Table 343 Registration Information Management Table 345 Inventory Confirmation Management Table 350 Third Processor

Claims

1. A circulating fan to circulate the air inside the storage area, A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature inside the storage compartment, A humidity sensor for measuring the humidity inside the storage compartment, A humidifier for humidifying the inside of the storage compartment, A heating heater for heating the inside of the storage compartment, After the proofing operation for fermenting the contents in the storage chamber is stopped, the circulating fan and the heating heater are driven so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by the temperature sensor, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber after the proofing operation. A control unit drives the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below a preset first threshold. A constant temperature and humidity device equipped with these features.

2. A circulating fan to circulate the air inside the storage area, A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature inside the storage compartment, A humidity sensor for measuring the humidity inside the storage compartment, A humidifier for humidifying the inside of the storage compartment, A heating heater for heating the inside of the storage compartment, The reception desk that accepts requests, When an operation is received by the reception unit, the control unit drives the circulation fan and the heating heater so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by the temperature sensor, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber, and drives the circulation fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below a preset second threshold. A constant temperature and humidity device equipped with these features.

3. The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit, after stopping the proofing operation, drives the circulating fan and the heating heater, and after a preset first set time has elapsed, determines whether the humidity inside the storage chamber measured by the humidity sensor has fallen below the first threshold, and if it determines that the humidity inside the storage chamber has fallen below the first threshold, stops driving the circulating fan and the heating heater.

4. The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the control unit, after the reception unit has received the operation and started driving the circulation fan and the heating heater, determines whether the humidity inside the storage chamber measured by the humidity sensor has fallen below the second threshold after a preset second set time has elapsed, and if it determines that the humidity inside the storage chamber has fallen below the second threshold, it stops driving the circulation fan and the heating heater.

5. The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit drives the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the first threshold, or until a preset third setting time has elapsed after the first setting time has elapsed.

6. The constant temperature and humidity apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the control unit drives the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below the second threshold, or until a preset fourth setting time has elapsed after the second setting time has elapsed.

7. A management system comprising a constant temperature and humidity device and a server device for managing the constant temperature and humidity device, The constant temperature and humidity apparatus is, A circulating fan to circulate the air inside the storage area, A temperature sensor for measuring the temperature inside the storage compartment, A humidity sensor for measuring the humidity inside the storage compartment, A humidifier for humidifying the inside of the storage compartment, A heating heater for heating the inside of the storage compartment, A communication unit that communicates with the aforementioned server device, When the communication unit receives instructions from the server device, the control unit drives the circulation fan and the heating heater so that the temperature inside the storage compartment, as measured by the temperature sensor, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage compartment, and drives the circulation fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage compartment, as measured by the humidity sensor, falls below a preset second threshold. A management system equipped with the following features.

8. The server device is The system includes a storage unit that stores a table for registering identification information of the constant temperature and humidity device, communication information used for communication with the constant temperature and humidity device, and the setting of the start time for operating the circulating fan and the heating heater. The management system according to claim 7, wherein the server device, when the start time registered in the table arrives, communicates with the constant temperature and humidity device using the communication information and instructs it to operate the circulating fan and the heating heater.

9. The aforementioned table contains the identification information of the constant temperature and humidity device and the authentication information for authenticating the user. The management system according to claim 8, wherein the server device accepts a change to the start time of the table in response to an instruction received from a portable device operated by a user authenticated by the authentication information.

10. After the proofing operation, which ferments the contents inside the storage chamber, is stopped, the circulation fan that circulates the air inside the storage chamber and the heating heater that warms the inside of the storage chamber are driven so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by a temperature sensor that measures the temperature inside the storage chamber, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber after the proofing operation. A control method for a constant temperature and humidity device, comprising: driving the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by a humidity sensor that measures the humidity inside the storage chamber, falls below a preset first threshold.

11. When an operation is received by the reception unit of the constant temperature and humidity device, or when instructions are received from the server device, the circulating fan that circulates the air inside the storage chamber and the heating heater that heats the inside of the storage chamber are driven so that the temperature inside the storage chamber, as measured by the temperature sensor of the constant temperature and humidity device, becomes a set temperature higher than the temperature inside the storage chamber. A control method for a constant temperature and humidity device, comprising: driving the circulating fan and the heating heater until the humidity inside the storage chamber, as measured by a humidity sensor for measuring humidity inside the storage chamber, falls below a preset second threshold.