JP4179398B1 - refrigerator - Google Patents

Abstract

In a refrigerator in which mist is sprayed using an atomizer, water is atomized by an ultrasonic vibration element, so that the atomized water particles do not become fine and cannot be sprayed uniformly, vegetables, etc. However, it had the problem of water rot and condensation inside.
Cooling air is provided separately from an atomizing device provided with an insulated compartment, an atomizing device provided with an atomizing part 139 for spraying mist in the storage room, and an outer case 137 containing the atomizing part 139. By providing a humidity supply port 138 which is a supply port to form an air inlet / outlet port, moisture can be circulated together with the flowing cold air without accumulating moisture in the outer case 137, so that generation of scale and moisture can be reduced. By making it difficult for electric leakage or the like to occur, the convenience of the refrigerator can be improved and a high-quality refrigerator can be provided.
[Selection] Figure 3

Description

  The present invention relates to a refrigerator in which an atomizing device is installed in a storage room space for storing vegetables and the like.

  Factors that affect the decline in freshness of vegetables include temperature, humidity, environmental gas, microorganisms, and light. Vegetables are living things, and respiration and transpiration are performed on the surface of the vegetables. To maintain freshness, it is necessary to suppress respiration and transpiration. Except for some vegetables that cause low-temperature injury, many vegetables have low respiration at low temperatures and can prevent transpiration due to high humidity. In recent years, refrigerators for home use have a sealed vegetable container for the purpose of preserving vegetables, cooling the vegetables to an appropriate temperature, and controlling the transpiration of the vegetables, such as increasing the humidity in the cabinet. ing. Here, there exists what sprays mist as a humidification means in a store | warehouse | chamber.

  Conventionally, refrigerators equipped with this kind of mist spraying function are those that produce and spray mist with an ultrasonic atomizer when the vegetable compartment is low in humidity, humidify the vegetable compartment, and suppress transpiration of vegetables (for example, Patent Document 1).

  FIG. 6 shows a refrigerator provided with a conventional ultrasonic atomizer described in Patent Document 1. FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view showing a main part of the ultrasonic atomizer.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the vegetable compartment 21 is provided in the lower part of the main body case 26 of the refrigerator main body 20, The front opening is closed by the drawer door 22 with which it can be opened and closed freely. Moreover, the vegetable compartment 21 is partitioned off from the upper refrigerator compartment (not shown) by the partition plate 2.

  A fixed hanger 23 is fixed to the inner surface of the drawer door 22, and the vegetable container 1 for storing food such as vegetables is mounted on the fixed hanger 23. The top opening of the vegetable container 1 is sealed with a lid 3. A thawing chamber 4 is provided inside the vegetable container 1, and an ultrasonic atomizer 5 is provided in the thawing chamber 4.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the ultrasonic atomizer 5 includes a mist outlet 6, a water storage container 7, a humidity sensor 8, and a hose receiver 9. The water storage container 7 is connected to a defrost water hose 10 by a hose receiver 9. The defrost water hose 10 is provided with a purification filter 11 for purifying the defrost water at a part thereof.

  The operation of the refrigerator configured as described above will be described below.

  Cooling air cooled by a heat exchange cooler (not shown) flows through the outer surfaces of the vegetable container 1 and the lid 3, whereby the vegetable container 1 is cooled and the food stored therein is cooled. Further, the defrost water generated from the cooler during the refrigerator operation is purified by the purification filter 11 when passing through the defrost water hose 10 and supplied to the water storage container 7 of the ultrasonic atomizer 5.

  Next, when the humidity sensor 8 detects that the internal humidity is 90% or less, the ultrasonic atomizing device 5 starts humidification, so that the humidity in the vegetable container 1 is kept at a suitable level. Humidity can be adjusted.

On the other hand, when the humidity sensor 8 detects that the inside humidity is 90% or more, the ultrasonic atomizer 5 stops excessive humidification. As a result, the ultrasonic atomizer 5 can quickly humidify the vegetable compartment, the humidity in the vegetable compartment is always high, the transpiration action of the vegetable or the like is suppressed, and the freshness of the vegetable or the like can be maintained.
JP-A-6-257933

  However, in the above-described conventional configuration, the area around the atomizer tends to be highly humid because it sprays mist, and especially around the mist outlet, generation of scales, growth of fungi and mold, and leakage through water Etc. also had a problem that it would be an easy-to-occur environment.

  The present invention makes it easy to become humid because the mist is sprayed around the atomizer, and in particular, around the mist outlet, the generation of scale and leakage of electricity through moisture are less likely to occur. An object of the present invention is to provide a refrigerator in which fungi and mold are prevented from breeding even when freshness is generated and sprayed to improve freshness.

  Moreover, it aims at spraying fine mist, ensuring a user's safety.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, a mist having a storage compartment partitioned by heat insulation, an atomization device for spraying mist in the storage chamber, and an atomization tip provided in the atomization device for performing mist spraying And an outer case for housing the atomizing tip, and the outer case is provided with a spray port through which mist passes and a cold air supply port separately from the spray port.

  As a result, the area around the atomizer tends to be highly humid because it sprays mist. Especially, in the outer case around the mist outlet, the generation of scale, the growth of fungi and mold, and the leakage of electricity through moisture, etc. Even when the environment is likely to occur, the outer case is provided with a cold air supply port that is different from the spray port, so that an air inlet / outlet port is formed and air flow is actively generated in the outer case. It is possible to circulate with the flowing cold air without accumulating moisture in the outer case, thereby generating fine mist by making it difficult for scale generation and leakage through moisture, Even when spraying to improve freshness, a refrigerator that prevents the growth of fungi and mold is provided.

  In addition, even if it is equipped with an atomization device that applies voltage to the storage chamber, the outer case prevents the user's hand from touching the atomization tip and voltage application unit, ensuring the safety of the user. Fine mist can be sprayed.

  The refrigerator of the present invention secures the safety of the user, adheres fine mist uniformly to the surface of fruits and vegetables such as vegetables, improves freshness, generates scale and leaks electricity through moisture, etc. Therefore, it is possible to improve the usability of the refrigerator and provide a high-quality refrigerator.

The invention according to claim 1 is an atomization having a storage chamber partitioned by heat insulation, an atomization device for spraying mist in the storage chamber, and an atomization tip portion for performing mist spraying provided in the atomization device. And an outer case that houses the atomizing tip, and the outer case is provided with a spray port through which mist passes and a cold air supply port separately from the spray port, and the spray port or the Even if the fall condensation water is collected on the lower surface side of the outer case by providing at least the lower surface portion of the outer case and the opening of any one of the cold air supply port is provided on the surface other than the upper surface of the outer case, It has a function as a drain hole for discharging the dew condensation water out of the outer case .

As a result, the area around the atomizer tends to be highly humid because it sprays mist. Especially, in the outer case around the mist outlet, the generation of scale, the growth of fungi and mold, and the leakage of electricity through moisture, etc. Even when the environment is likely to occur, the outer case is provided with a cold air supply port that is different from the spray port, so that an air inlet / outlet port is formed and air flow is actively generated in the outer case. It is possible to circulate with the flowing cold air without accumulating moisture in the outer case, thereby generating fine mist by making it difficult for scale generation and leakage through moisture, Even when spraying to improve freshness, a refrigerator that prevents the growth of fungi and mold is provided.
Further, even when the condensed water condensed by the electrostatic atomizer is accumulated below the outer case, the condensed water can be discharged out of the outer case through the opening on the mask side. In other words, the opening can function not only as a cold air supply port or spray port, but also as a drain hole for falling condensed water. Intrusion to the voltage application unit can be prevented, and the safety of the electrostatic atomizer can be improved.

  In addition, even if it is equipped with an atomization device that applies voltage to the storage chamber, the outer case prevents the user's hand from touching the atomization tip and voltage application unit, ensuring the safety of the user. Fine mist can be sprayed.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the cold air supply port provided in the outer case is located below the atomizing tip portion housed in the outer case.

  As a result, in the outer case, particularly on the lower side from the atomizing tip, the sprayed mist was relatively large in particle size and heavy, and collided with the outer case etc. and was not sprayed into the storage chamber. By attaching mist, it becomes an environment in which generation of scale and electric leakage through moisture are likely to occur, but by positioning the cold air supply port below the atomizing tip stored in the outer case, By flowing the cold air on the lower side with high humidity to the atomization part, the condensation to the atomization part is positively performed, so that moisture does not accumulate in the outer case, and the cold air with sufficient humidity goes to the atomization part. By being supplied, air in a relatively high humidity state is efficiently and stably supplied from the cold air supply port to the atomization unit, and water droplets are efficiently generated and attached to the atomization unit including the atomization tip.

  In addition, even when water droplets adhering to the partition wall above the atomizing part drop or drop along the outer case, the moisture is discharged from the cold air supply port to the outside of the outer case. It is possible to prevent intrusion into an electrical connection part such as a voltage application part of the atomizing part.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the present invention, an opening is provided in the lower surface portion of the outer case.

  Thereby, even when the condensed water condensed by the electrostatic atomizer is collected on the lower side of the outer case, the condensed water can be discharged out of the outer case through this opening. That is, the opening can function not only as a cold air supply port but also as a drain hole for falling condensed water. Can be prevented, and the safety of the electrostatic atomizer can be improved.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the first to third aspects, the atomization unit performs mist spraying using the dew condensation water in which moisture in the air in the storage chamber is condensed. Is.

  Thereby, it is possible to easily and surely condense condensation from the excess water vapor in the storage chamber to the atomizing electrode, and a complicated apparatus such as a water supply apparatus is not necessary, and mist spraying can be performed with a simple configuration. In addition, air in a relatively high humidity state is efficiently and stably supplied from the cold air supply port to the atomization unit, and water droplets are efficiently generated and attached to the atomization unit including the tip of the atomization unit.

  In addition, since an air inlet / outlet is formed in the outer case, an air flow is also generated in the atomizing electrode due to the influence of air convection in the storage chamber, and the atomizing electrode is efficiently and stably contained in the air in the storage chamber. Moisture (humidity) can be supplied and condensation can be promoted.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the refrigerator of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations as those of the above-described embodiments, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. The present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a longitudinal sectional view of a refrigerator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a front view of the vicinity of the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator in the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the electrostatic atomizer at A-A in FIG.

  In the figure, a heat insulating box 101 of a refrigerator 100 is mainly composed of an outer box 102 using a steel plate and an inner box 103 molded of a resin such as ABS, and a foam heat insulating material such as hard foamed urethane is contained therein. Filled, insulated from the surroundings, divided into multiple storage rooms. A refrigeration chamber 104 as a first storage chamber is provided at the top, and a switching chamber 105 as a fourth storage chamber and an ice making chamber 106 as a fifth storage chamber are provided side by side below the refrigeration chamber 104. A vegetable room 107 as a second storage room is arranged below the chamber 105 and the ice making room 106, and a freezing room 108 as a third storage room is arranged at the bottom.

  The refrigerated room 104 is normally set to 1 ° C. to 5 ° C. at the lower limit of the temperature at which it is not frozen for refrigerated storage, and the vegetable room 107 is set to 2 ° C. to 7 ° C., which is set at a temperature that is the same or slightly higher than that of the refrigerated room 104. The freezer compartment 108 is set in a freezing temperature zone, and is usually set at −22 ° C. to −15 ° C. for frozen storage, but for example, −30 ° C. or −25 ° C. to improve the frozen storage state. It may be set at a low temperature. The switching chamber 105 is not only refrigerated set at 1 ° C to 5 ° C, vegetable set at 2 ° C to 7 ° C, and frozen at a temperature set at -22 ° C to -15 ° C. It is possible to switch to a preset temperature range between the freezing temperature ranges. The switching room 105 is a storage room provided with an independent door arranged in parallel with the ice making room 106, and is often provided with a drawer type door. In this embodiment, the switching room 105 is a storage room including the temperature range of refrigeration / freezing. However, the refrigeration room 104, the vegetable room 107, and the freezing room are refrigerated room 108. A storage room specialized for switching only the intermediate temperature range may be used. A storage room fixed at a specific temperature range may also be used. The ice making chamber 106 creates ice with an automatic ice maker (not shown) provided in the upper part of the room with water sent from a water storage tank (not shown) in the refrigerated room 104, and an ice storage container ( (Not shown).

  The top surface portion of the heat insulating box 101 has a stepped recess shape toward the back side of the refrigerator. The compressor chamber 109 and a dryer for removing moisture are formed by forming a machine chamber 101b in the stepped recess. High-pressure side components of the refrigeration cycle such as not shown) are accommodated. That is, the machine room in which the compressor 109 is disposed is formed by biting into the uppermost rear region in the refrigerator compartment 104. By providing a machine room in the rear region of the uppermost storage room of the heat insulation box 101 that is difficult to reach and is a dead space, the compressor 109 is arranged, so that a heat insulation box that is easy for the user to use in a conventional refrigerator The space in the machine room at the bottom of 101 can be effectively converted as the storage room capacity, and the storage performance and usability can be greatly improved. In the present embodiment, the matter relating to the main part of the invention described below is a type in which a compressor room is provided by providing a machine room in the rear region of the lowermost storage room of the heat insulating box 101, which has been generally used conventionally. It may be applied to other refrigerators.

  A cooling chamber 110 for generating cold air is provided on the back of the vegetable chamber 107 and the freezing chamber 108, and a cooling air conveyance path to each chamber having heat insulation is provided between the vegetable chamber 107 and the freezing chamber 108, and the chamber is configured to be insulated from each chamber. The rear partition wall 111 is configured. In the cooling chamber 110, a cooler 112 is disposed, and in the upper space of the cooler 112, the cold air cooled by the cooler 112 by a forced convection method is stored in the refrigerator 104, the switching chamber 105, the ice making chamber 106, the vegetables. A cooling fan 113 for blowing air to the chamber 107 and the freezing chamber 108 is disposed, and a radiant heater made of glass tube for defrosting the frost and ice adhering to the cooler 112 and its surroundings at the time of cooling in the lower space of the cooler 112 114, and a drain pan 115 for receiving defrost water generated at the time of defrosting, and a drain tube 116 penetrating from the deepest part to the outside of the chamber are configured at the lower portion thereof, and the evaporating dish 117 is disposed outside the downstream side of the chamber. Is configured.

  In the vegetable compartment 107, a lower storage container 119 placed on a frame attached to the drawer door 118 of the vegetable compartment 107 and an upper storage container 120 placed on the lower storage container 119 are arranged.

  A lid 122 mainly for substantially sealing the upper storage container 120 in a state where the drawer door 118 is closed is held by the first partition wall 123 and the inner box 103 at the upper part of the vegetable compartment. In the state where the drawer door 118 is closed, the left and right sides and the back side of the upper surface of the lid body 122 and the upper storage container 120 are in close contact with each other, and the front side of the upper surface is substantially in close contact. Furthermore, the left and right lower sides of the back surface of the upper storage container 120 and the boundary between the lower storage container 119 are provided with a gap so that moisture in the food storage section does not escape within a range where the upper storage container 120 is not in contact with the upper storage container 120 in operation.

  Between the lid body 122 and the first partition wall 123, there is provided an air passage for the cold air discharged from the vegetable room discharge port 124 formed in the rear partition wall 111. Further, a space is also provided between the lower storage container 119 and the second partition wall 125 to constitute a cold air passage. In the lower part of the rear partition wall 111 on the back of the vegetable compartment 107, there is provided a vegetable compartment suction port 126 for cooling the inside of the vegetable compartment 107 and returning heat exchanged to the cooler 112.

  Thus, the vegetable compartment 107 is partitioned by the first partition wall 123, the second partition wall 125, and the rear partition wall 111, which are partition walls, and the storage room space of the partitioned vegetable compartment 107 is divided. An atomizing device for spraying mist is provided.

  It should be noted that the matters relating to the main part of the invention described below in the present embodiment may be applied to a refrigerator that is opened and closed by a frame attached to a door and a rail provided in an inner box, which has been conventionally common. I do not care.

  The rear surface partition wall 111 is made of a heat insulating material 152 made of foamed polystyrene or the like for isolating the rear surface partition portion surface 151 made of a resin such as ABS and the air passage or the cooling chamber 110 to ensure heat insulation. ing. Here, a concave portion is provided in a part of the wall surface of the back partition wall 111 on the storage chamber side so as to be cooler than other portions, and the electrostatic atomizing device 131 as an atomizing device is disposed in the spray direction. It is installed to face the storage room space.

  The electrostatic atomizer 131 which is an atomizer is mainly composed of an atomizer 139, a voltage application unit 133, and an outer case 137. The outer case 137 is provided with a spray port 132 and a spray port 132 separately from the spray port 132. A humidity supply port 138 that is a cold air supply port into the outer case 137 is formed on the surface of the lower surface portion of the outer case 137 that is orthogonal to the outer surface, and the atomization unit 139 and the voltage application unit 133 are housed inside. Yes. The atomizing part 139 is provided with an atomizing electrode 135 having an atomizing tip part where mist spraying is performed, and the atomizing electrode 135 is fixed to a cooling pin 134 which is a good heat conducting member such as aluminum or stainless steel. Yes.

  In addition, the humidity supply port 138 that is the cold air supply port has a humidity supply port 138 and a spray port 132 with respect to the shortest distance d1 that connects the humidity supply port 138 and the atomization electrode 135 that is the atomization tip that performs condensation. D2 which is the shortest distance connecting the two is provided so as to have a shorter portion.

  Thus, the cool air supply port is provided in the outer case 137 below the atomizing electrode 135 having the atomizing tip portion of the atomizing portion 139.

  The cooling pin 134 is fixed to the outer case 137, and the cooling pin 134 itself is configured to protrude from the outer case. Further, a donut disk-shaped counter electrode 136 is attached to the storage chamber side at a position facing the atomizing electrode 135 so as to keep a certain distance from the tip of the atomizing electrode 135, and a spray port 132 is formed on the extension. It is configured.

  Further, a voltage application unit 133 is configured in the vicinity of the atomization unit 139, and the negative potential side of the voltage application unit 133 that generates a high voltage is electrically connected to the atomization electrode 135 and the positive potential side is electrically connected to the counter electrode 136, respectively. Yes.

  The voltage application unit 133 communicates with and is controlled by the control means 146 of the refrigerator main body, and performs high voltage ON / OFF by an input signal from the refrigerator 100 or the electrostatic atomizer 131.

  The back partition surface 151 to which the electrostatic atomizer 131 as an atomizer is fixed is provided with heating means 154 such as a heater in order to adjust the temperature of the storage chamber or prevent condensation on the surface. It is installed between the surface partition wall surface 151 and the heat insulating material 152.

  Thus, the atomizing device is provided in the partition wall provided with the heating means 154 such as a heater among the side walls, and the heating means 154 is also disposed at least on the lower side of the atomizing device.

  About the refrigerator comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement and an effect | action are demonstrated below.

  First, the operation of the refrigeration cycle will be described. The refrigeration cycle is operated by a signal from a control board (not shown) according to the set temperature in the cabinet, and the cooling operation is performed. The high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant discharged by the operation of the compressor 109 is condensed to some extent by a condenser (not shown), and further, refrigerant piping ( (Not shown) and the like, while condensing and liquefying while preventing condensation on the refrigerator main body, it reaches a capillary tube (not shown). After that, the capillary tube is depressurized while exchanging heat with a suction pipe (not shown) to the compressor 109 to become a low-temperature and low-pressure liquid refrigerant and reaches the cooler 112. Here, the low-temperature and low-pressure liquid refrigerant is heat-exchanged with air in each storage chamber such as the freezer discharge air passage 1141 conveyed by the operation of the cooling fan 113, and the refrigerant in the cooler 112 evaporates. At this time, cool air for cooling each storage chamber is generated in the cooling chamber. The low-temperature cold air is diverted from the cooling fan 113 to the refrigerating room 104, the switching room 105, the ice making room 106, the vegetable room 107, and the freezing room 108 using an air passage or a damper, and cooled to the respective target temperature zones. In particular, the vegetable compartment 107 is adjusted to 2 ° C. to 7 ° C. by ON / OFF operation such as cold air distribution and heating means (not shown), and generally has no internal temperature detection means. There are many things.

  The vegetable compartment 107 cools the refrigerator compartment 104 and then discharges the air from the vegetable compartment outlet 124 formed in the middle of the refrigerator compartment return air passage 140 for circulating the air to the cooler 112 to the vegetable compartment 107. It flows to the outer periphery of the upper storage container 120 and the lower storage container 119 and cools indirectly, and then returns to the cooler 112 again from the vegetable room suction port 126.

  The heat insulating material 152 has a thinner wall thickness than other portions of a part of the rear partition wall 111 that is in a relatively high humidity environment. In particular, the thickness of the heat insulating material behind the cooling pin 134 is, for example, 2 mm to 10 mm. Consists of degree. Thereby, the back surface partition wall 111 comprises a recessed part, and the electrostatic atomizer 131 is attached to this location so that the spraying direction may face the storage chamber space.

  In the freezing chamber discharge air passage 141 on the back surface of the cooling pin, the cooler 112 is generated by the operation of the cooling system, and cool air of about −15 to −25 ° C. flows by the cooling fan 113, and heat conduction from the air passage surface. The cooling pin 134 is cooled to about 0 to −6 ° C., for example. At this time, since the cooling pin 134 is a good heat conducting member, it is very easy to transmit cold heat, and the atomizing electrode is also cooled to about 0 to −6 ° C.

  Here, since the vegetable room is 2 ° C. to 7 ° C. and is in a relatively high humidity state due to transpiration from the vegetable or the like, the atomizing electrode 135 is below the dew point.

  Then, moisture in the air entering from the humidity supply port 138 which is a cold air supply port provided in the outer case 137 is condensed, and this condensed water is sprayed from the spray port 132 after becoming mist in the atomizing unit 139. As a result, an air inlet / outlet is formed in the outer case 137, so that an air flow is generated including 135 parts of the atomizing electrode due to the air convection in the storage chamber, and a relatively high humidity state due to transpiration from vegetables etc. Air is efficiently and stably supplied from the humidity supply port 138 to the atomizing electrode 135, and water droplets are generated and attached to the atomizing electrode 135 including the tip.

  In addition, the humidity supply port 138 that is the cold air supply port has a humidity supply port 138 and a spray port 132 with respect to the shortest distance d1 that connects the humidity supply port 138 and the atomization electrode 135 that is the atomization tip that performs condensation. Since d2 which is the shortest distance connecting the two is connected to the outer casing 137 from the humidity supply port 138, a part of the cold air flows into the fog. Since the air flows into the vicinity of the atomizing electrode 135 and a part passes through the air passage with the least ventilation resistance that shortcuts from the humidity supply port 138 to the spraying port 132 without passing through the atomizing electrode 135, the air passes through these shortcut air passages. The air can be generated more actively in the outer case 137 by the cold air, and the water is not accumulated in the outer case 137 and is circulated with the flowing cold air. It can become.

  It should be noted that when forming an air path with the least ventilation resistance that is short-circuited from the humidity supply port 138 to the spray port 132 without passing through the atomization electrode 135 that is such an atomization tip, dew condensation with the humidity supply port 138 is performed. The shortest distance d1 connecting the atomizing electrode 135 which is the atomizing tip to be performed has a portion where d2 which is the shortest distance connecting the humidity supply port 138 and the spraying port 132 is shorter. By other means, it is possible to create an air passage with the least ventilation resistance, and the same effect can be obtained.

  At this time, since the humidity supply port 138 is provided on the lower surface portion of the outer case 137 on the bottom side of the storage chamber, even if condensed water condensed by the atomizing portion 139 accumulates below the outer case 137 Condensed water can be discharged out of the outer case through the opening. In other words, this opening can function not only as a humidity supply port that is a cold air supply port, but also as a drain hole for falling dew condensation water. Water can be prevented from entering the voltage application unit, and the safety of the electrostatic atomizer 131 can be improved.

  In addition, the atomizing device and the outer case 137 have an upper end portion of a lower storage container 119 that is a storage container that mainly performs spraying as shown in FIG. 1 so that high-humidity cold air can be taken in from the humidity supply port 138. By providing the humidity supply port 138 immediately above, it becomes easy for high-humidity cold air from the storage container to flow into the humidity supply port 138, generating condensed water more efficiently and performing mist spraying.

  Further, the atomizing device is provided on the partition wall provided with the heating means 154 such as a heater among the side walls, and therefore, the rising air flow is easily generated by the heating means 154 compared to the other side walls. An outer case 137 in which the atomizing part of the atomizing device is housed in the partition wall is provided, and since the lower surface side is opened as a cold air supply port, the cold air enters the outer case from the rising airflow. It is easy to flow in and can actively generate an air flow in the outer case 137, so that moisture does not accumulate in the outer case 137, it is circulated with the flowing cold air, and dew condensation occurs in the atomizing section. It becomes possible to circulate as.

  Further, since the heating means 154 is disposed at least on the lower side of the atomizing device, the rising airflow to the cold air supply port is more reliably generated, so that the cold air easily flows into the outer case, and An air flow can be positively generated in the case 137.

  Further, the atomizing device and the outer case 137 are outlets of cold air with respect to the center in the left-right direction of the storage room as shown in FIG. 2 so that high humidity cold air can be taken in from the humidity supply port 138. An atomizer is arranged on the vegetable room suction port 126 side. As a result, a large amount of high-humidity cold air from the storage container flows toward the vegetable room suction port 126 side, which is the cold air outlet, so that in the left-right direction of the storage room, the vegetable room is the cold air outlet that is the cold air outlet. Since the suction inlet 126 side has a higher humidity, high-humidity cold air from the storage container easily flows into the humidity supply port 138, so that condensed water can be generated more efficiently and mist spraying can be performed.

  Also, the area around the atomizer tends to be highly humid because it sprays mist, and particularly in the outer case 137, it becomes an environment in which generation of scales and electric leakage through water easily occur. By providing the cold air supply port, an air inlet / outlet port is formed, an air flow can be actively generated in the outer case 137, and water is not accumulated in the outer case 137, but is circulated together with the flowing cold air. It becomes possible.

  In the outer case 137, particularly below the atomizing electrode 135, which is an atomizing portion, the sprayed mist has a relatively large and heavy particle diameter, collides with the outer case, etc., and collides with the storage chamber. When the mist that has not been sprayed on the surface is attached, it becomes an environment in which scale generation and leakage through water are more likely to occur. However, in this embodiment, the cold air supply port is connected to the outer case 137 where water is easily attached. By providing it below the atomizing section, moisture can be accumulated in the outer case 137 by actively condensing the atomizing section by flowing high-humidity cold air to the atomizing section. However, by supplying cool air having sufficient humidity to the atomization unit, air in a relatively high humidity state is efficiently and stably supplied from the humidity supply port 138 to the atomization electrode 135, and the tip of the atomization unit Water droplets on the atomizing electrode 135 including Generation, to adhere.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, by using the electrostatic atomizer 131, the generated fine mist has an extremely small particle diameter of several nanometers to several tens of nanometers. The generated fine mist also adheres to the vicinity of the spray port and does not create a water reservoir, and because it is a fine mist containing oxidatively strong OH radicals and ozone, the growth of bacteria near the spray port It is possible to prevent water scale.

  Even when the condensed water adhering to the rear partition wall 111 drops directly or drops along the outer case 137, it is discharged from the humidity supply port 138 to the outside of the outer case 137. Intrusion can be prevented.

  In this way, the water vapor in the vegetable compartment 107 can be easily and surely condensed on the atomizing electrode 135, and the water supply device or the like is not required to be a device, so that mist spraying can be performed with a simple configuration. .

  Moreover, fine mist is generated by performing mist spraying with an electrostatic atomizer, and the fine mist sprayed after being atomized adheres uniformly to the surface of vegetables and other fruits and vegetables, and suppresses transpiration from the fruits and vegetables. The freshness can be improved.

  In addition, by storing the atomizing electrode 135 and the voltage applying unit 133 in the outer case 137, the user's hand is prevented from touching the atomizing electrode 135 and the voltage applying unit 133, so that a high voltage is generated in the storage chamber. Even if it is applied, fine mist can be sprayed while ensuring the safety of the user.

  A high voltage (for example, 4 to 10 kV) is applied between the electrodes by the voltage application unit 133 with a negative voltage applied to the atomizing electrode 135 to which water droplets have adhered and the counter electrode 136 set to the positive voltage side. At this time, corona discharge occurs between the electrodes, the water droplets at the tip of the atomizing electrode 135 are refined by electrostatic energy, and since the droplets are charged, they have an invisible charge of several nm level due to Rayleigh splitting. Nano-level fine mist and accompanying ozone and OH radicals are generated. The voltage applied between the electrodes is a very high voltage of 4 to 10 kV, but the discharge current value at that time is a few μA level, and the input is a very low input of 0.5 to 1.5 W. .

  When fine mist is sprayed from the atomizing electrode 135, an ion wind is generated. Also at this time, since humid air newly flows into the atomizing electrode 135 from the humidity supply port 138 provided separately from the spray port 132, it can be sprayed continuously.

  The generated fine mist is sprayed into the lower storage container 119, but is very diffusible due to very small particles, and the fine mist reaches the upper storage container 120. Since the fine mist to be sprayed is generated by high-pressure discharge, it has a negative charge. Among the vegetables that are fruits and vegetables, green vegetable leaves and fruits are also stored in the vegetable room 107, and these fruits and vegetables are more susceptible to wilt due to transpiration or transpiration during storage. Some vegetables and fruits stored in the vegetable compartment usually have a slight charge due to transpiration at the time of purchase return or transpiration during storage, and have a positive charge. Therefore, the atomized mist is easy to gather on the surface of vegetables, and this improves the freshness.

  In addition, nano-level fine mist adhering to the vegetable surface contains a lot of OH radicals and a small amount of ozone, etc., and is effective for sterilization, antibacterial, sterilization, etc. Encourages vegetables to increase nutrients such as vitamin C.

  Here, when there is no water in the atomizing electrode 135, the discharge distance is increased, the air insulating layer cannot be destroyed, and the discharge phenomenon does not occur. As a result, no current flows between the atomizing electrode and the counter electrode. By detecting this phenomenon by the control means 146 of the refrigerator 100, the high voltage of the voltage application unit 133 can be turned ON / OFF.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the storage room (vegetable room 107) that has been thermally insulated and the electrostatic atomizer 131 that sprays mist into the storage room (vegetable room 107) are provided, and the atomization unit Reference numeral 139 denotes an atomizing electrode 135 that is electrically connected to a voltage applying unit 133 that generates a high voltage, a counter electrode 136 that is disposed at a position facing the atomizing electrode 135, and the atomizing electrode 135 is set to a dew point or less. By forming a cooling means for the mist and condensing moisture in the air on the atomizing electrode 135 and spraying it as mist on the storage room (vegetable room 107), it is easy from excess water vapor in the storage room (vegetable room 107). In addition, it is possible to reliably cause condensation on the atomizing electrode 135, and a nano-level fine mist is generated by a high-voltage corona discharge with the counter electrode 136. Table of fruits and vegetables Uniformly adhered to, suppressing transpiration from fruits or vegetables, it is possible to improve the freshness. Moreover, it can penetrate | invade in a structure | tissue from the cell space | gap, pores, etc. on the surface of fruit and vegetables, and a water | moisture content is supplied to the deflated cell, and it can return to a crispy state.

  In addition, the effects of deodorization, removal of harmful substances on the food surface, and antifouling can be enhanced by ozone and OH radicals generated simultaneously with the occurrence of mist.

  The sprayed mist can be directly sprayed on the food in the vegetable container (upper storage container 120, lower storage container 119), and the mist can be adhered to the vegetable surface using the potential of the mist and the vegetable. Because it can be done, the efficiency of preservation is good

  Furthermore, since excess water vapor in the storage room (vegetable room 107) is condensed on the atomizing electrode 135, water droplets are attached, and mist is sprayed, a water storage tank or the like is not necessary. Since no means is used, it is possible to configure the apparatus at low cost.

  Furthermore, since dew condensation water is used instead of tap water, there are no mineral components and impurities, so that it is possible to prevent deterioration when the water retention material is used and deterioration of water retention due to clogging.

  Furthermore, since it is not ultrasonic atomization by ultrasonic vibration, a water storage tank is unnecessary, and since the input is also small, the temperature influence in the warehouse is small.

  Furthermore, since the portion in which the voltage application unit 133 is housed is also embedded in the rear partition wall 111 and cooled, the temperature rise of the substrate can be suppressed. Thereby, the temperature influence in the storage room (vegetable room 107) can be reduced.

  Further, in the present embodiment, a cooler 112 for cooling each storage chamber, and a rear partition wall 111 for insulating and partitioning the cooler 112 and the storage chamber are provided, and the electrostatic atomizer 131 is disposed on the rear surface. Attached to the partition wall 111, the outer casing 137 of the electrostatic atomizer 131 has a humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 to the atomizing electrode 135 separately from the spray port 132, and is perpendicular to the surface on which the spray port 132 is provided. By providing it on the bottom side surface of the outer case 137, air flow is also generated in the atomizing electrode 135 part due to the influence of air convection in the storage room (vegetable room 107) in order to form an air inlet / outlet. Moisture (humidity) in the air in the storage room (vegetable room 107) can be supplied to the atomizing electrode 135 well and stably, and condensation can be promoted. At the same time, a humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 is provided in the outer case. 137 bottom side By providing on the surface, it is possible to prevent the condensed water adhering to the rear partition wall 111 from dropping and entering the voltage application unit 133 from the humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138, thus improving safety. be able to.

  In addition, when fine mist is sprayed from the atomizing electrode 135, an ion wind is generated.At this time, air newly flows into the atomizing electrode 135 from the humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138. Spraying can be performed continuously and stably without the occurrence of a circulating flow (short circuit) in the vicinity of the spraying port 132.

  In addition, since it can be installed in the gap in the storage room (vegetable room 107), the storage volume does not decrease, and since it is attached to the back surface, it cannot be easily touched by human hands, so safety is also achieved. improves.

  Ozone is also generated when fine mist is generated. By the ON / OFF operation of the electrostatic atomizer 131, the ozone concentration in the storage room (vegetable room 107) can be adjusted. By adjusting the ozone concentration appropriately, deterioration such as yellowing of vegetables due to excessive ozone can be prevented, and the sterilization and antibacterial action of the vegetable surface can be enhanced.

  In the present embodiment, the air path for cooling the cooling pin 134 is the freezer compartment discharge air path 141, but it can be a low temperature air path such as the discharge air path of the ice making chamber 106 or the freezer compartment return air path. It doesn't matter. Thereby, the installation place of the electrostatic atomizer 131 is expanded.

  In the present embodiment, no water retention material is provided around the atomization electrode 135 of the electrostatic atomizer 131, but a water retention material may be provided. Thereby, since the dew condensation water produced | generated in the vicinity of the atomization electrode 135 can be hold | maintained around the atomization electrode 135, it can supply to the atomization electrode 135 timely.

  In the present embodiment, the storage room of the refrigerator 100 in which the electrostatic atomizer 131 is provided is the vegetable room 107, but it may be a storage room in another temperature zone such as the refrigerator room 104 or the switching room 105. In this case, it can be developed for various uses.

  In the present embodiment, the means for cooling the atomizing electrode 135 is the heat conduction from the surface of the air passage 141 by the cold air flow generated by the cooler 112, but a Peltier element using the Peltier effect is a cooling pin 134. It may be arranged directly and cooled. In this case, subtle temperature control can be performed by adjusting the voltage applied to the Peltier element, so that the optimum temperature adjustment at the tip can be performed.

  In the present embodiment, the humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 is provided on the lower surface (bottom surface) portion of the outer case 137 perpendicular to the surface on which the spray port 132 is provided separately from the spray port 132. As the spray port 132, substantially the entire lower surface portion of the outer case 137 may be opened. In that case, a large amount of air can be introduced into the outer case 137 from the lower side of the outer case 137. The air resistance in 137 can be reduced, and condensation in the atomizing section can be promoted more efficiently. Further, since almost the entire lower surface portion is open, it is possible to prevent the dew condensation water from accumulating in the outer case 137, and when the dew condensation water drops directly or along the outer case 137. However, since it is quickly discharged from the humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 to the outside of the outer case 137, entry into the voltage application unit 133 is prevented, and the safety of the electrostatic atomizer 131 is further improved. Can do.

  As described above, when the humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 provided on the bottom surface of the outer case 137 has a function as a drain hole, the humidity is applied to the lowest surface of the bottom surface portion of the outer case 137. Providing the supply port (cold air supply port) 138 is more desirable because moisture is quickly accumulated by gravity without accumulating in the outer case 137. In addition, the humidity supply port has a bottom slope of the outer case 137 so that moisture can be discharged more smoothly, and has a function as a drain hole in the bottom surface, which is the lowest surface among the bottom surfaces. (Cold air supply port) 138 may be provided.

  In the present embodiment, the electrostatic atomizer 131 has been described as an example of the atomizer, but the atomizer is not limited to the electrostatic atomizer 131, and is an ultrasonic atomizer. Even in the case of a device or an ejector atomizer, the same technique can be applied to the outer case 137 that houses the atomization tip portion where the mist spray of these atomizers is performed, and in particular, replenishment of water to the atomizer When the method performs mist spraying using the condensed water obtained by condensing moisture in the air in the storage chamber to the atomizing section 139, the humidity supply port 138 is used as the cold air supply port so that dew condensation can be effectively performed. A similar technique can be applied to the technique for taking the cold air into the outer case 137.

  In the present embodiment, the humidity supply port 138 has been described as an example of the cold air supply port, but the humidity supply port for the purpose of mainly taking in high-humidity cold air as such a cold air supply port. 138 is effective when mist spraying is performed using condensed water obtained by condensing moisture in the air in the storage room (vegetable room 107) in the atomizing unit 139 as described in the present embodiment. However, even if the mist spraying is performed by supplying the stored water held in the water storage tank to the electrostatic atomizer 131 and performing mist spraying with the same configuration, for example, as described in the present embodiment. Since the area around the atomizing device 131 is likely to be highly humid because it sprays mist, especially in the outer case 137, there is a common problem that it becomes an environment in which generation of scales and electric leakage through moisture are likely to occur. Electric atomizer Rehydration method to 31 is not limited to dew condensation method, the stored water held in the water storage tank be a hydration process is supplied to the electrostatic atomization apparatus 131 can be applied the same technique.

(Embodiment 2)
FIG. 4 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the electrostatic atomizer in section BB of FIG. 2 of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, detailed description will be made centering on portions that are different from the portions described in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions of portions to which the same configuration and effects as those of the first embodiment can be applied. .

  As shown in FIG. 4, the outer case 137 of the electrostatic atomizer 131 has a surface on the side of the storage chamber side of the outer case 137 perpendicular to the surface provided with the spray port 132 and the spray port 132 separately. A humidity supply port 138 that is a cold air supply port is configured to be located in a space between the lower storage container 119 and the upper storage container 120 where no obstacle exists.

  About the refrigerator comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement / effect | action is demonstrated below. Since the cooling means of the cooling pin 134 and the operation / action of the mist spray are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

  The air entering from the humidity supply port 138 provided in the outer case 137 is misted by the atomizing section 139 and sprayed from the spray port 132 to form an air inlet / outlet, so that it is affected by air convection in the storage chamber. As a result, an air flow is generated in the outer case 137 including the portion of the atomizing electrode 135, and air in a relatively high humidity state due to transpiration from vegetables is efficiently and stably supplied from the humidity supply port 138 to the atomizing electrode 135. Then, water droplets are generated and adhered to the atomizing electrode 135 including the tip.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the cooler 112 for cooling each storage room (vegetable room 107), and the rear partition wall 111 for insulating and partitioning the cooler 112 and the storage room, The electrostatic atomizer 131 is attached to the rear partition wall 111, and a humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 to the atomization electrode 135 is provided in the outer case 137 of the electrostatic atomizer 131 separately from the spray port 132. By providing a side surface of the outer case 137 perpendicular to the surface provided with the spray port 132 so as to be located in a space between the lower storage container 119 and the upper storage container 120 where no obstacle exists, an air inlet / outlet port is provided. The air flow is also generated in the atomizing electrode 135 by being affected by the air convection in the storage room (vegetable room 107), and the atomizing electrode 135 is efficiently and stably stored in the storage room (vegetable room 107). Moisture in the air Humidity) can be supplied, it is possible to promote the condensation.

  In addition, especially in the outer case 137 because mist spraying is performed, it becomes an environment in which generation of scale and electric leakage through water easily occur, but by providing a cold air supply port as in this embodiment, An air inlet / outlet port is formed, and an air flow can be generated positively in the outer case 137, so that moisture does not accumulate in the outer case 137 and can be circulated together with the flowing cold air.

  In the present embodiment, the humidity supply port 138 which is a cold air supply port is provided on the side surface portion of the outer case 137 perpendicular to the surface where the spray port 132 is provided separately from the spray port 132. It is better to open the bottom surface of the side surface of the outer case 137. In that case, a large amount of air can be introduced into the outer case 137 from the lower side of the outer case 137. Can be reduced, and condensation in the atomizing section 139 can be promoted more efficiently. Further, since the bottom surface portion of the side surface is opened, it can function as a drain hole for preventing the condensed water from collecting in the outer case 137, and when the condensed water drops directly or in the outer case 137. Even when the liquid drops from the humidity, it is quickly discharged from the humidity supply port 138 to the outside of the outer case 137, so that it is prevented from entering the voltage application unit 133, and the safety of the electrostatic atomizer is further improved. be able to. As described above, when the cold air supply port provided on the side surface of the outer case 137 has a function as a drain hole, the cold air supply port is provided on the extension of the lowest surface of the bottom surface of the outer case 137. By providing, moisture does not accumulate in the outer case 137 and is quickly discharged by gravity, which is more desirable.

(Embodiment 3)
FIG. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view of the vicinity of the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, detailed description will be made centering on parts that are different from the parts described in Embodiments 1 and 2, and portions to which the same configurations and effects as those in Embodiments 1 and 2 can be applied are detailed. Description is omitted.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the electrostatic atomizer 131 is directed to the storage compartment space on the first partition wall 123 that secures heat insulation in order to separate the temperature zones of the vegetable compartment 107 and the ice making compartment 106. In particular, the heat insulating material has a concave shape for the cooling pin 134 part which is an atomizing part.

  In the outer case 137 of the electrostatic atomizer 131, a humidity supply port 138 is formed on the inner surface of the outer case 137 perpendicular to the surface provided with the spray port 132 and the spray port 132 separately. ing.

  About the refrigerator comprised as mentioned above, the operation | movement / effect | action is demonstrated below.

  The thickness of the first partition wall 123 in which the electrostatic atomizer 131 is installed requires a cooling capacity for cooling the cooling pin 134 to which the atomizing electrode 135 is fixed. The wall thickness of the portion where the device 131 is provided is configured to be thinner than other portions. Therefore, the cooling pin 134 can be cooled by the heat conduction from the ice making chamber at a relatively low temperature, and the atomizing electrode 135 can be cooled, and the tip temperature of the atomizing electrode 135 becomes the dew point or lower.

  Although not shown here, by installing an internal temperature detection unit, an internal humidity detection unit, and the like in the storage, the dew point can be determined strictly according to changes in the internal environment by a predetermined calculation.

  Since the spray port 132 and the humidity supply port 138 provided in the outer case 137 form an air inlet / outlet, the air flow including the atomizing electrode 135 is generated due to the influence of air convection in the storage chamber. Air in a relatively high humidity state due to transpiration is efficiently and stably supplied from the humidity supply port 138 to the atomizing electrode 135, and water droplets are generated and attached to the atomizing electrode 135 including the tip.

  In this state, the atomizing electrode 135 is set to the negative voltage side, the counter electrode 136 is set to the positive voltage side, and a high voltage (for example, 7.5 kV) is applied between the electrodes by the voltage applying unit 133. At this time, the air insulating layer is destroyed between the electrodes, corona discharge occurs, the water of the atomizing electrode 135 is atomized from the tip of the electrode, and nano-level fine mist having a charge of less than 1 μm that cannot be visually observed, and the accompanying ozone And OH radicals are generated.

  The generated fine mist is sprayed into the vegetable container. The fine mist sprayed from the electrostatic atomizer 131 is negatively charged. On the other hand, vegetables, which are fruits and vegetables, are stored in the vegetable room, and green rape leaves, fruits and the like are also stored therein. These fruits and vegetables are usually stored in a slightly deflated state due to transpiration at the time of purchase return or transpiration during storage. These fruits and vegetables are normally charged with a positive charge, and the sprayed fine mist with a negative charge tends to collect on the vegetable surface. Therefore, the sprayed fine mist makes the vegetable room highly humid again and at the same time adheres to the surface of the fruits and vegetables, suppresses the transpiration from the fruits and vegetables, and improves the freshness. In addition, it penetrates into the tissues through the gaps between the cells of vegetables and fruits, the water evaporates, the water is supplied again into the deflated cells, the deflation is eliminated by the swelling pressure of the cells, and it returns to a crispy state .

  Moreover, the generated fine mist holds ozone, OH radicals, etc., and these hold strong oxidizing power. Therefore, the generated fine mist can deodorize the vegetable room and antibacterial and sterilize the vegetable surface, and at the same time oxidatively decompose and remove harmful substances such as agricultural chemicals and wax adhering to the vegetable surface.

  Currently, refrigerants in the refrigeration cycle that use isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant with a low global warming potential, are mainly used from the viewpoint of global environmental conservation.

  This isobutane, which is a hydrocarbon, has a specific gravity approximately twice that at normal temperature and atmospheric pressure compared with air (at 2.04 and 300K).

  If isobutane, which is a flammable refrigerant, leaks from the refrigeration system when the compressor is stopped, it leaks downward because it is heavier than air. At this time, the refrigerant may leak from the rear partition wall 111 into the cabinet. In particular, when the refrigerant leaks from the cooler 112 having a large amount of refrigerant, the amount of leakage may increase. However, the vegetable compartment 107 including the electrostatic atomizer 131 is installed above the cooler 112. Therefore, even if it leaks, it does not leak into the vegetable room.

  Even if it leaks into the vegetable compartment 107, the refrigerant stays in the lower part of the storage compartment because it is heavier than air. Therefore, since the electrostatic atomizer 131 is installed on the top of the storage room, it is extremely low that the vicinity of the electrostatic atomizer 131 becomes a flammable concentration.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the partition wall 123 for partitioning the storage room (vegetable room 107) and the low temperature storage room (ice making room 106) on the top side of the storage room (vegetable room 107). If the storage room in the freezing temperature zone such as the freezing room 108 and the ice making room 106 is at the upper part, special cooling is provided by providing the electrostatic atomizer 131 on the partition wall 123 on the top surface that partitions them. An apparatus is unnecessary, and since it can spray from a top | upper surface, it is easy to diffuse to the whole storage container (lower storage container 119, upper storage container 120).

  In addition, the outer casing 137 of the electrostatic atomizer 131 has a humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 to the atomizing electrode 135 separately from the spray port 132, and an outer case 137 perpendicular to the surface on which the spray port 132 is provided. In order to form an air inlet / outlet, an air flow is also generated in the part of the atomizing electrode 135 due to the air convection in order to form an air inlet / outlet. Moisture (humidity) in the air in the storage room (vegetable room 107) can be supplied to the atomizing electrode 135 to promote condensation, and at the same time, the humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138 is connected to the back of the outer case 137. Since the surface is provided on the surface side, it is possible to prevent a human hand from touching the voltage application unit 133 from the humidity supply port (cold air supply port) 138, so that safety can be improved.

  In addition, especially in the outer case 137 because mist spraying is performed, it becomes an environment in which generation of scale and electric leakage through water easily occur, but by providing a cold air supply port as in this embodiment, An air inlet / outlet port is formed, and an air flow can be generated positively in the outer case 137, so that moisture does not accumulate in the outer case 137 and can be circulated together with the flowing cold air.

  Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the bottom surface portion is opened as the spray port 132, so that the spray port 132 functions as a drain hole that prevents the condensed water from accumulating in the outer case 137. Even when condensed water drops directly or drops along the outer case 137, it is quickly discharged from the spray port 132 to the outside of the outer case 137, thus preventing entry into the voltage application unit 133. And the safety | security of an electrostatic atomizer can be improved more. In this way, when the spray port 132 provided on the bottom surface of the outer case 137 has a function as a drain hole, the spray port 132 is provided on the lowest surface of the bottom surface portion of the outer case 137. It is more preferable because moisture is not collected in the outer case 137 and is quickly discharged by gravity.

  In addition, by storing the atomizing electrode 135 and the voltage application unit 133 in the outer case 137, the user's hand is prevented from touching the atomization electrode 135 and the voltage application unit 133. The fine mist can be sprayed while ensuring the safety of the user even when a high voltage is applied.

  Furthermore, since the atomization part 139 and the cooling pin 134 are provided in the concave-shaped part, there are few protrusions in the storage room (vegetable room 107), and a user's hand is more suitable for the atomization electrode 135 and the voltage application part. Since it becomes difficult to touch 133, even if a high voltage is applied in the storage room (vegetable room 107), the safety of the user can be further enhanced. Furthermore, since the outer case 137 is provided on the back surface side on the top surface side, safety can be further improved.

  Moreover, since it can spray from a top | upper surface, it is easy to diffuse mist to the whole storage container (the lower storage container 119, the upper storage container 120).

  Moreover, the atomization part 139 of this Embodiment produces | generates mist by an electrostatic atomization system, and breaks up a water droplet using electric energy, such as a high voltage, and generates fine mist by subdividing. . The generated mist has a charge, so by giving the mist the opposite charge to the object you want to attach, such as vegetables and fruits, for example, the mist with a negative charge is added to the positively charged vegetables. Spraying improves adhesion to vegetables and fruits, so that the mist adheres more uniformly to the vegetable surface and improves the mist adhesion rate compared to non-charged mists. I can do it. The sprayed fine mist can be directly sprayed on the food in the vegetable container (lower storage container 119, upper storage container 120), and the fine mist adheres to the vegetable surface using the potential of the fine mist and vegetables. Therefore, it is possible to improve the freshness efficiently.

  Furthermore, the makeup water of this embodiment uses condensed water instead of tap water supplied from the outside. Therefore, there are no mineral components or impurities, and deterioration of the water retention due to the deterioration or clogging of the tip of the atomizing electrode 135 can be prevented.

  Furthermore, since the mist of the present embodiment contains radicals, agricultural chemicals and wax adhering to the vegetable surface can be decomposed and removed with an extremely small amount of water, so that water can be saved and input can be reduced.

  In addition, since the electrostatic atomizer 131 is disposed above the evaporator (cooler 112), the refrigeration cycle is configured using a combustible refrigerant such as isobutane or propane, and the refrigerant Even if the spilled, it is safe because the vegetable compartment 107 is not filled with refrigerant because it is heavier than air.

  Moreover, since the electrostatic atomization part 139 is installed above the storage room (vegetable room 107) also in the vegetable room 107, even if a refrigerant | coolant leaks, it will remain in the lower part of the storage room (vegetable room 107). So don't ignite.

  In addition, since there is no part which faces the refrigerant | coolant piping etc. directly in the storage room (vegetable room 107), a refrigerant | coolant does not leak. Therefore, the combustible refrigerant is not ignited.

  As described above, the refrigerator according to the present invention secures the safety of the user and adheres fine mist uniformly to the surface of the fruits and vegetables such as vegetables to improve the freshness, It is possible to make it difficult for electric leakage through moisture, etc., so it can be applied to refrigerators for home use or commercial use or dedicated warehouses for vegetables, as well as low temperature distribution of foods such as vegetables, and applications such as warehouses. it can.

The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the refrigerator in Embodiment 1 of this invention The front view of the vegetable compartment vicinity of the refrigerator in Embodiment 1 of this invention 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the electrostatic atomizer in section AA in FIG. 2 of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the electrostatic atomizer in section BB of FIG. 2 of the refrigerator according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the vegetable compartment vicinity of the refrigerator in Embodiment 3 of this invention Longitudinal sectional view near the ultrasonic atomizer of a conventional refrigerator The expanded perspective view which shows the principal part of the conventional ultrasonic atomizer of a refrigerator

Explanation of symbols

100 Refrigerator 107 Vegetable room (storage room)
131 Electrostatic atomizer 132 Spraying port 137 Outer case 138 Humidity supply port (cold air supply port)
139 Atomization part

Claims (4)

A storage compartment partitioned by heat insulation, an atomization device for spraying mist in the storage chamber, an atomization portion having an atomization tip for performing mist spraying provided in the atomization device, and the atomization tip An outer case for housing, and the outer case is provided with a spray port through which mist passes, and a cold air supply port separately from the spray port, and an opening portion of either the spray port or the cold air supply port Is provided on a surface other than the upper surface of the outer case and is provided at least on the lower surface portion of the outer case, so that even if the condensed water is collected on the lower surface side of the outer case, the condensed water is removed from the outer case. A refrigerator that functions as a drain hole for discharging water .   The refrigerator according to claim 1, wherein a cold air supply port provided in the outer case is positioned below an atomization tip portion stored in the outer case.   The refrigerator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an opening is provided in a lower surface portion of the outer case.   The refrigerator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the atomizing unit performs mist spraying using condensed water obtained by condensing moisture in the air in the storage chamber.