Patent Description:
Extract production systems for extracting an extract from a starting material by using a solvent flowing into the interior thereof are known from the prior art.

In this regard, Patent Document <NUM> indicates that before an extract is extracted, a heat exchanger and a heat exchange medium thereof are used to heat warm water (solvent) to a predetermined temperature. Other examples are shown in <CIT> and <CIT>.

In this kind of extract production system, the solvent sometimes undergoes further heat exchange with the aim of bringing the temperature thereof close to the abovementioned predetermined temperature, among other things, by using a separate heat exchanger (e.g., a cooling tower) and a separate heat exchange medium.

In this case, however, a large amount of the heat exchange medium is consumed and there is an increase in the extract production cost.

The present application has been devised in light of this situation, and one aim thereof lies in providing an extract production apparatus and a method for producing an extract, which make it possible to reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

An extract production system according to a first mode of the present invention comprises: a solvent storage unit configured to store the solvent; an extraction unit configured to extract an extract from a starting material using a solvent arranged to flow into the interior thereof; a first heat exchange unit configured to subject the solvent arranged to flow into the extraction unit to heat exchange using a heat exchange medium; a second heat exchange unit configured to subject the solvent which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit to heat exchange by reusing the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit; a solvent supply flow path which connects the solvent storage unit and the extraction unit, has the first heat exchange unit disposed along the connection, and is configured to cause the solvent stored in the solvent storage unit to flow to the extraction unit; and a solvent return flow path which branches from the solvent supply flow path downstream of the first heat exchange unit to connect the solvent supply flow path and the solvent storage unit, has the second heat exchange unit disposed along the connection, and is configured to return the solvent which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit to the solvent storage unit.

By virtue of this configuration, the second heat exchange unit performs heat exchange by reusing the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced heat exchange medium used for heat exchange in the second heat exchange unit, and it is thereby possible to reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

Additionally, the solvent can be circulated between the solvent storage unit, the solvent supply flow path and the solvent return flow path, and repeatedly subjected to heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit along said flow paths. As a result, it is possible to set the temperature of the solvent at the optimum temperature for extraction by the extraction unit.

The first heat exchange unit may be configured to reuse the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the second heat exchange unit as the heat exchange medium used for the abovementioned heat exchange.

According to the abovementioned configuration, the first heat exchange unit reuses the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the second heat exchange unit, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced heat exchange medium used for heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit while it is also possible to reduce the amount of heat exchange medium for heat exchange in the second heat exchange unit, and it is thereby possible to further reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

The extract production system may further comprise a third heat exchange unit configured to subject the extract extracted by the extraction unit to heat exchange by reusing the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit.

According to the abovementioned configuration, the third heat exchange unit performs heat exchange by reusing the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced heat exchange medium used for heat exchange in the third heat exchange unit, and it is thereby possible to further reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

The first heat exchange unit may be configured to reuse the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the third heat exchange unit as the heat exchange medium used for the abovementioned heat exchange.

According to the abovementioned configuration, the first heat exchange unit reuses the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the third heat exchange unit, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced heat exchange medium used for heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit, and it is thereby possible to further reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

The extract production system may further comprise: a first circulation flow path configured to circulate the heat exchange medium between the first heat exchange unit and the second heat exchange unit; a second circulation flow path configured to circulate the heat exchange medium between the first heat exchange unit, the second heat exchange unit and the third heat exchange unit; and a flow path switching unit configured to switch the flow path that circulates the heat exchange medium to either the first circulation flow path or the second circulation flow path.

According to the abovementioned configuration, the flow path switching unit switches the flow path that circulates the heat exchange medium to either the first circulation flow path or the second circulation flow path, and as a result it is possible to switch whether or not heat exchange is performed in relation to the extract, and heat exchange can be efficiently performed.

The extract production system may comprise: a first introduction unit which is provided upstream of the first heat exchange unit in a circulation flow path including the first circulation flow path and the second circulation flow path, and is configured to introduce the heat exchange medium into the circulation flow path; a second introduction unit which is provided in a different location from the first introduction unit, upstream of the first heat exchange unit in the circulation flow path, and is configured to introduce the heat exchange medium into the circulation flow path; and an adjustment unit configured to adjust the amount of the heat exchange medium introduced from the first introduction unit and the second introduction unit.

According to the abovementioned configuration, the adjustment unit adjusts the amount of heat exchange medium introduced from the first introduction unit and the second introduction unit, so the range of adjustment is increased and heat exchange can be performed more efficiently than when the amount of heat exchange medium introduced is adjusted in only the first introduction unit.

A method for producing an extract from a solvent stored in a solvent storage unit using an extraction unit comprises: a first heat exchange step in which a solvent flowing into the extraction unit is subjected to heat exchange by using a heat exchange medium; a second heat exchange step in which the solvent which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange step is subjected to heat exchange by reusing the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit, where the solvent return flow path branches from the solvent supply flow path downstream of the first heat exchange unit and connects the solvent supply flow path and the solvent storage unit; and an extraction step in which an extract is extracted from a starting material using the extraction unit by using solvent flowing into the interior thereof which has circulated through the first heat exchange step and the second heat exchange step along the solvent supply flow path and the solvent return flow path.

According to this production method, the second heat exchange step performs heat exchange by reusing the heat exchange medium which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange step, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced heat exchange medium used for heat exchange in the second heat exchange step, and it is thereby possible to reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

A preferred mode of embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. It should be noted that the same reference symbols are used for elements which are the same, and a duplicate description will not be given. Furthermore, unless indicated otherwise, the positional relationships such as above, below, left and right etc. are based on the positional relationships depicted in the drawings. In addition, the dimensional proportions in the drawings are not limited to those depicted. Furthermore, the following mode of embodiment is an example to illustrate the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to this mode of embodiment.

The outline of an extract production system according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention will be described first of all. <FIG> is a schematic diagram to illustrate the configuration of the extract production system according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in <FIG>, an extract production system <NUM> comprises: a warm water storage tank <NUM>, an extractor <NUM>, an extract storage tank <NUM>, and a control unit C.

The warm water storage tank <NUM> is a solvent storage unit for storing warm water serving as a solvent used when the extractor <NUM> performs extraction.

The extractor <NUM> is an extraction unit for extracting an extract from a starting material by using warm water flowing into the interior thereof from the warm water storage tank <NUM>. Specifically, the starting material is disposed on a filter and warm water is poured onto the starting material from a shower nozzle, whereby the extractor <NUM> extracts an extract from the starting material through the filter. Examples of starting materials which may be cited include plant starting materials for beverages, such as coffee beans or tea leaves. Furthermore, examples of extracts which may be cited include beverages, beverage starting materials which are diluted for use in beverages, and beverage concentrates which are diluted for use in beverages.

The extract storage tank <NUM> is an extract storage unit for storing the extract extracted from the extractor <NUM>.

The control unit C performs various aspects of control of the extract production system <NUM>, including control of the extractor <NUM>.

The extract production system <NUM> configured in the manner described above comprises a warm water addition flow path <NUM>, a warm water supply flow path <NUM>, a warm water return flow path <NUM>, and an extract recovery flow path <NUM>, which connect the structural components.

Specifically, the warm water addition flow path <NUM> is a flow path which connects a supply source (not depicted) for cold water W1 from which warm water is generated, and the warm water storage tank <NUM>. Warm water, which is obtained as a result of the cold water W1 being warmed along the warm water addition flow path <NUM>, is made to flow through said warm water addition flow path <NUM> to the warm water storage tank <NUM> by means of a pump which is not depicted. As a result, additional warm water is stored in the warm water storage tank <NUM>.

The warm water supply flow path <NUM> is a flow path connecting the warm water storage tank <NUM> and the extractor <NUM>. The warm water stored in the warm water storage tank <NUM> is made to flow through (supplied to) the warm water supply flow path <NUM> to the extractor <NUM> using a pump <NUM>. As a result, warm water flows into the interior of the extractor <NUM>.

The warm water return flow path <NUM> is a flow path which branches at a branch point 20A along the warm water supply flow path <NUM> to connect the warm water supply flow path <NUM> and the warm water storage tank <NUM>. The warm water return flow path <NUM> returns the warm water flowing through the warm water supply flow path <NUM> to the warm water storage tank <NUM> using the pump <NUM>.

The extract recovery flow path <NUM> is a flow path connecting the extractor <NUM> and the extract storage tank <NUM>. The extract extracted by the extractor <NUM> is made to flow through the extract recovery flow path <NUM> to the extract storage tank <NUM> using a pump <NUM>. As a result, the extract is stored in the extract storage tank <NUM>.

In the warm water flow paths such as described above, the extract production system <NUM> comprises, in addition to the abovementioned pumps <NUM>, <NUM>: valves <NUM>, <NUM>, a first heat exchanger <NUM>, a second heat exchanger <NUM>, a third heat exchanger <NUM>, and a fourth heat exchanger <NUM>.

Specifically, the valve <NUM> is disposed downstream of the branch point 20A in the warm water supply flow path <NUM>. Furthermore, the valve <NUM> is disposed upstream close to the branch point 20A in the warm water return flow path <NUM>. The valves <NUM>, <NUM> switch the inflow destination of the warm water flowing through the warm water supply flow path <NUM> to either the extractor <NUM> or the warm water storage tank <NUM>, in accordance with a command from the control unit C.

The first heat exchanger <NUM> is disposed upstream of the branch point 20A in the warm water supply flow path <NUM>. The first heat exchanger <NUM> performs heat exchange with the warm water flowing into the extractor <NUM> in the warm water supply flow path <NUM>, using steam S as a heat exchange medium. Here, according to this mode of embodiment, it is assumed that the warm water stored in the warm water storage tank <NUM> is at a temperature of less than <NUM> degrees, for example. In this case, the first heat exchanger <NUM> heats the warm water to a suitable temperature which is equal to or greater than <NUM> degrees (referred to below as the "target extraction temperature"), for example, in such a way that the extract is efficiently extracted by the extractor <NUM>. The steam S is cooled as a result of this heat exchange. It should be noted that the steam S may pass through a heating step afforded by steam S1 and may pass through a heating step afforded by the steam <NUM> and steam S2. Furthermore, the temperature of the steam S before heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM> is adjusted to between <NUM> and <NUM> degrees, for example.

The second heat exchange unit <NUM> is disposed downstream of the valve <NUM> in the warm water return flow path <NUM>. The second heat exchange unit <NUM> cools the warm water heated by the first heat exchanger <NUM> and returning to the warm water storage tank <NUM> through the warm water return flow path <NUM>, by reusing the steam S cooled in the first heat exchange unit <NUM>. The reused steam S is heated as a result of this heat exchange. The steam S heated in the second heat exchange unit <NUM> is further reused as part or all of the steam used for heat exchange by the first heat exchange unit <NUM>. As will be described in detail later, heating and cooling are repeatedly performed by the first heat exchanger <NUM> and the second heat exchange unit <NUM>, whereby it is possible to reduce the amount of heat exchange medium (steam for heating, cold water for cooling, etc.) used for the warm water flowing into the extractor <NUM>.

The third heat exchanger <NUM> is disposed along the extract recovery flow path <NUM>. The third heat exchanger <NUM> cools the extract extracted by the extractor <NUM> and flowing to the extract storage tank <NUM>, by reusing the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. The reused steam S is heated as a result of this heat exchange. The steam S heated in the third heat exchanger <NUM> is further reused as part or all of the heating medium used for heat exchange by the first heat exchange unit <NUM>.

The fourth heat exchanger <NUM> is disposed downstream of the third heat exchanger <NUM> in the extract recovery flow path <NUM>. The fourth heat exchanger <NUM> further cools the extract cooled in the third heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the extract storage tank <NUM>, by using the cold water W1. As a result, the extract cooled to <NUM> degrees or less, for example, by means of the third heat exchanger <NUM> and the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> is stored in the extract storage tank <NUM>. Furthermore, the used cold water W1 is heated to form warm water as a result of heat exchange in the fourth heat exchanger <NUM>. This warm water flows into the warm water storage tank <NUM> via the warm water addition flow path <NUM>. That is to say, this warm water is reused for extraction by means of the extractor <NUM>.

The extract production system <NUM> comprises, as a configuration for reusing the steam S in this way, a circulation flow path for the steam S, including a first circulation flow path <NUM> and a second circulation flow path <NUM>. It should be noted that in <FIG> and onward, this circulation flow path is represented by a dotted line in order to distinguish it from the flow paths for warm water and extract.

The first circulation flow path <NUM> is a flow path which forms a circulating connection between the first heat exchange unit <NUM> and the second heat exchange unit <NUM> (see the thick dotted line in <FIG>). In the first circulation flow path <NUM>, the steam S is circulated between the first heat exchange unit <NUM> and the second heat exchange unit <NUM> using a pump <NUM>. Moreover, a branch point 42A and a branch point 42B are disposed upstream of the first heat exchange unit <NUM> and downstream of the second heat exchange unit <NUM> in the first circulation flow path <NUM>.

The second circulation flow path <NUM> is a flow path which forms a circulating connection between the first heat exchange unit <NUM>, the second heat exchange unit <NUM>, and the second heat exchange unit <NUM> (see the thick dotted line in <FIG>). The second circulation flow path <NUM> comprises: the first circulation flow path <NUM>, excluding a flow path 42C where the first heat exchange unit <NUM>, etc. is not disposed, between the branch point 42A and the branch point 42B; and a flow path 44A which branches from the branch point 42A of the first circulation flow path <NUM> to connect to the branch point 42B. In the second circulation flow path <NUM>, the steam S is circulated between the first heat exchange unit <NUM>, the second heat exchange unit <NUM>, and the third heat exchanger <NUM>, by using the pump <NUM>.

The extract production system <NUM> comprises, in these flow paths for the steam S: valves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>; a first introduction port <NUM>; a second introduction port <NUM>; and a water introduction port <NUM>.

The valve <NUM> is disposed in the flow path 42C between the branch point 42A and the branch point 42B. The valve <NUM> is disposed between the third heat exchanger <NUM> and the branch point 42A in the second circulation flow path <NUM>. The valve <NUM> is disposed between the third heat exchanger <NUM> and the branch point 42B in the second circulation flow path <NUM>. The valves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> switch the flow path through which the steam S is circulated to either the first circulation flow path <NUM> or the second circulation flow path <NUM>, in accordance with a command from the control unit C. That is to say, the valves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the control unit C form the flow path switching unit according to this mode of embodiment.

The first introduction port <NUM> is disposed upstream of the first heat exchange unit <NUM> and downstream of the second heat exchange unit <NUM> in the first circulation flow path <NUM>. Specifically, the first introduction port <NUM> is disposed between the second heat exchange unit <NUM> and the branch point 42A in the first circulation flow path <NUM>. The first introduction port <NUM> introduces the steam S1 into the circulation flow path including the first circulation flow path <NUM> and the second circulation flow path <NUM>. As a result, the steam S1 forms part of the steam S flowing through the circulation flow path.

The second introduction port <NUM> is disposed in a different location from the first introduction port <NUM>, upstream of the first heat exchange unit <NUM> and downstream of the second heat exchange unit <NUM> in the first circulation flow path <NUM>. Specifically, the second introduction port <NUM> is disposed between the first heat exchange unit <NUM> and the branch point 42B in the first circulation flow path <NUM>. The second introduction port <NUM> introduces the steam S2 into the circulation flow path including the first circulation flow path <NUM> and the second circulation flow path <NUM>. As a result, the steam S2 forms part of the steam S flowing through the circulation flow path.

It should be noted that the amount of steam S1, S2 introduced from the first introduction port <NUM> and the second introduction port <NUM> is adjusted by means of the control unit C.

The water introduction port <NUM> is disposed upstream of the first heat exchange unit <NUM> and downstream of the second heat exchange unit <NUM> in the first circulation flow path <NUM>. The water introduction port <NUM> introduces cold water W2 into the first circulation flow path <NUM>.

The method for producing an extract which is performed by the abovementioned extract production system <NUM> will be described next. <FIG> is a flowchart to illustrate a series of production steps in the method for producing an extract according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention.

Furthermore, <FIG> is an explanatory diagram to illustrate a warm water preparation step in the method for producing an extract according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention. <FIG> is an explanatory diagram to illustrate an extraction preparation step in the method for producing an extract according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention. <FIG> is an explanatory diagram to illustrate an extraction start step in the method for producing an extract according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention. <FIG> is an explanatory diagram to illustrate an extraction continuation step in the method for producing an extract according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention. <FIG> is an explanatory diagram to illustrate an extract extraction termination preparation and warm water preparation step according to a mode of embodiment of the present invention.

It should be noted that from <FIG> onward, the flow paths and introduction ports, etc. used in each step are represented by thick lines. Furthermore, from <FIG> onward, the temperature of the warm water, etc. is represented by (cool) or (warm), etc. The (cool) and (warm) denote the relative temperatures when compared before and after heat exchange. In the designation (cool)→(warm), for example, (cool) is a cooler temperature than after heat exchange, and (warm) is a warmer temperature than before heat exchange. Furthermore, the following description relates to a case in which all of the production steps are performed by the control unit C, but some or all of the production steps may equally be performed by a person.

The control unit C first of all implements the warm water preparation step, in which the warm water is prepared in order to set the warm water for supply to the extractor <NUM> at the target extraction temperature.

Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the control unit C controls the valves <NUM>, <NUM> so as to close the valve <NUM> and to open the valve <NUM>. Furthermore, the control unit C controls the valves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> so as to close the valves <NUM>, <NUM> and to open the valve <NUM>. After this, the control unit C controls a valve which is not depicted so that the steam S1 at the target extraction temperature is introduced from the first introduction port <NUM>. The control unit C then controls the pump <NUM> so as to produce a flow of the steam S which was introduced. Furthermore, the control unit C controls the pump <NUM> so that warm water at a temperature of less than <NUM> degrees, for example, stored in the warm water storage tank <NUM> flows to the warm water supply flow path <NUM>.

As a result, the warm water stored in the warm water storage tank <NUM> is circulated between the warm water supply flow path <NUM>, the warm water return flow path <NUM>, and the warm water storage tank <NUM>. Furthermore, the flow path for the steam S is switched to the first circulation flow path <NUM>. The steam S1 from the first introduction port <NUM> is then introduced as a heating medium and the steam S circulates in the first circulation flow path <NUM>.

Here, the warm water flowing through the warm water supply flow path <NUM> is heated by heat exchange with the steam S in the first heat exchanger <NUM> along said warm water supply flow path <NUM> (first heat exchange step). That is to say, the temperature of said warm water changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> { (cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S flowing to the first circulation flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange with the warm water in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)-<NUM>(cool) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the warm water which is heated in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and flows to the warm water return flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger <NUM> along said warm water return flow path <NUM> with the steam S cooled in the first heat exchange unit <NUM>, by reuse of said steam (second heat exchange step). That is to say, the temperature of said warm water changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the second heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the first circulation flow path <NUM> is heated by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger <NUM> with the warm water heated in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the second heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the warm water which has returned from the warm water return flow path <NUM> to the warm water storage tank <NUM> once again flows through the water supply flow path <NUM>. Said warm water is then heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM> along said warm water supply flow path <NUM> with the steam S heated in the second heat exchanger <NUM>, by reuse of said steam S. In other words, the temperature of said warm water changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S which has been heated in the second heat exchanger <NUM> and flows to the first circulation flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange with the warm water in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}.

It should be noted that when the warm water once again flows in this way through the warm water supply flow path <NUM>, the temperature of the steam S heated in the second heat exchanger <NUM> may be less than the target extraction temperature. In this case, the control unit C introduces additional steam S1 in a smaller amount than the initial introduction amount, as part of the steam S, from the first introduction port <NUM> to the first circulation flow path <NUM>, in such a way that the temperature of said steam S reaches the target extraction temperature. As a result, the temperature of the steam S flowing toward the first heat exchanger <NUM> changes from a warm temperature to a warmer temperature before and after the first introduction port <NUM> { (warm)→(warmer) in <FIG>}.

In the abovementioned warm water preparation step, the control unit C repeats heat exchange while circulating the warm water until the temperature of the warm water reaches the target extraction temperature. The series of production steps then shifts to the step of SP12 shown in <FIG>.

The control unit C implements the extraction preparation step, in which extraction by the extractor <NUM> is prepared.

Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the control unit C controls the valves <NUM>, <NUM> so as to open the valve <NUM> and to close the valve <NUM>. It should be noted that the control unit C maintains a state in which the valves <NUM>, <NUM> are closed and the valve <NUM> is open. Furthermore, the control unit C continues control of the pumps <NUM>, <NUM>. Furthermore, the control unit C controls a valve which is not depicted so that steam S1 in an equal amount to the initial introduction amount is introduced from the first introduction port <NUM>.

As a result, the warm water which has circulated through the warm water supply flow path <NUM> and the warm water return flow path <NUM> flows from the warm water supply flow path <NUM> to the extractor <NUM>. Furthermore, the steam S1 from the first introduction port <NUM> circulates through the first circulation flow path <NUM> as the steam S.

Here, the warm water flowing through the warm water supply flow path <NUM> is heated by heat exchange with the steam S in the first heat exchanger <NUM> along said warm water supply flow path <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said warm water changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S flowing to the first circulation flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange with the warm water in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the temperature of the warm water heated in the first heat exchanger <NUM> reaches the target extraction temperature, and said warm water flows to the extractor <NUM>. Meanwhile, the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the first circulation flow path <NUM> passes through the second heat exchanger <NUM>, but the warm water which is subject to heat exchange does not flow thereto so heat exchange does not take place in said second heat exchanger <NUM>, and said steam S once again flows toward the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S is maintained at a cool temperature before and after the second heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool) maintained in <FIG>}.

It should be noted that the steam S maintained in a cool temperature state must be raised to the target extraction temperature because it heats the warm water to the target extraction temperature in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. The control unit C therefore introduces additional steam S1 in an equal amount to the initial introduction amount into the first circulation flow path <NUM> as part of the steam S, in such a way that the temperature of said steam S reaches the target extraction temperature. Furthermore, the temperature of the steam S falls suddenly to a cooler temperature than in the abovementioned warm water preparation step, so the control unit C supplements this accordingly by introducing additional steam S2 into the first circulation flow path <NUM> as part of an additional heating step.

As a result, the temperature of the steam S flowing to the first circulation flow path <NUM> changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the first introduction port <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. Furthermore, the temperature of the steam S then changes from a warm temperature to a warmer temperature before and after the second introduction port <NUM> { (warm)→(warmer) in <FIG>}.

When the abovementioned extraction preparation step has ended, the series of production steps shifts to the step of SP14 shown in <FIG>.

The control unit C implements the extraction start step, in which extraction is performed by the extractor <NUM>.

Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the control unit C maintains a state in which the valves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are closed and the valves <NUM>, <NUM> are open. Furthermore, the control unit C continues to introduce the steam S1, S2. Furthermore, the control unit C continues control of the pumps <NUM>, <NUM>. Furthermore, the control unit C controls the extractor <NUM> so as to start extraction of the extract using the warm water at the target extraction temperature flowing into the interior thereof. Furthermore, the control unit C newly controls the pump <NUM> so that the extract extracted by the extractor <NUM> flows to the extract recovery flow path <NUM>.

As a result, the warm water stored in the water storage tank <NUM> flows from the warm water supply flow path <NUM> to the extractor <NUM>. Furthermore, the extract extracted by the extractor <NUM> flows through the extract recovery flow path <NUM>, after which it flows to the extract storage tank <NUM> where it is recovered. Furthermore, the steam S1, S2 circulates through the first circulation flow path <NUM> as the steam S.

Furthermore, the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the first circulation flow path <NUM> passes through the second heat exchanger <NUM>, but the warm water which is subject to heat exchange does not flow thereto so heat exchange does not take place in said second heat exchanger <NUM>, and said steam S once again flows toward the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S is maintained at a cool temperature before and after the second heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool) maintained in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the temperature of the extract flowing through the extract recovery flow path <NUM> is well below the temperature of the warm water at the start of extraction. The extract passes through the third heat exchanger <NUM>, but the steam S which is subject to heat exchange does not flow thereto so heat exchange does not take place in said third heat exchanger <NUM>, and said extract flows toward the extract storage tank <NUM>. That is to say, the extract is maintained at a cool temperature before and after the third heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool) maintained in <FIG>}. The extract which has passed through the third heat exchanger <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange with the cold water W1 in the fourth heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, said extract changes from a cool temperature to a cooler temperature before and after the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(cooler) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the cold water W1 is heated by heat exchange with the extract in the fourth heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the cold water W1 forms warm water that has changed from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. It should be noted that this warm water flows through the warm water addition flow path <NUM> and is supplied to the warm water storage tank <NUM>.

After the abovementioned extraction start step, the extract flowing through the extract recovery flow path <NUM> is gradually warmed toward the temperature of the warm water. When the extract becomes warmer than a predetermined temperature (e.g., <NUM> degrees or greater), said extract must be even further cooled before recovery in the extract storage tank <NUM>, so the series of production steps shifts to the step of SP16 shown in <FIG>.

The control unit C implements the extraction continuation step in which extraction by the extractor <NUM> is continued.

Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the control unit C maintains a state in which the valve <NUM> is closed and the valve <NUM> is open. Furthermore, the control unit C continues control of the pumps <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Furthermore, the control unit C controls the extractor <NUM> so as to continue extraction of the extract using the hot water at the target extraction temperature flowing into the interior thereof.

In addition, the control unit C controls the valves <NUM>-<NUM> so as to open the valves <NUM>, <NUM> and to close the valve <NUM>. Furthermore, the control unit C continues introduction of the steam S2 but stops introduction of the steam S1. It should be noted that in order to avoid a sudden stoppage, the control unit C preferably adjusts each introduction amount in the previous extraction start step, in such a way that the amount of steam S1 introduced is gradually reduced while the amount of steam S2 introduced is gradually increased.

As a result, the warm water stored in the warm water storage tank <NUM> flows from the warm water supply flow path <NUM> to the extractor <NUM>. Furthermore, the extract extracted by the extractor <NUM> flows through the extract recovery flow path <NUM>, after which it flows to the extract storage tank <NUM> where it is recovered. Furthermore, the flow path for the steam S is switched to the second circulation flow path <NUM>. The steam S2 then circulates through the second circulation flow path <NUM> as the steam S. That is to say, the control unit C switches the flow path circulating the steam S to the second circulation flow path <NUM> in accordance with the temperature of the extract.

Here, the warm water flowing through the warm water supply flow path <NUM> is heated by heat exchange with the steam S in the first heat exchanger <NUM> along said warm water supply flow path <NUM>. The temperature of said warm water changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S flowing to the second circulation flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange with the warm water in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the first circulation flow path <NUM> passes through the second heat exchanger <NUM>, but the warm water which is subject to heat exchange does not flow thereto so heat exchange does not take place in said second heat exchanger <NUM>, and said steam S flows toward the third heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S is maintained at a cool temperature before and after the second heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool) maintained in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the extract flowing through the extract recovery flow path <NUM> is a warm material in the extraction continuation step (from the middle period of extraction and onward). This extract is cooled by heat exchange in the third heat exchanger <NUM> along the extract recovery flow path <NUM> with the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM>, by reuse of said steam S. That is to say, the temperature of said extract changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the third heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM> (the steam maintained at a cool temperature in the second heat exchanger <NUM>) is heated by heat exchange with the extract in the third heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the third heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the extract cooled in the third heat exchanger <NUM> is further cooled by heat exchange with the cold water W1 in the fourth heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said extract changes from a cool temperature to a cooler temperature before and after the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(cooler) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the cold water W1 is heated by heat exchange with the extract in the fourth heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, said cold water W1 forms warm water that has changed from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the steam S that has reached a warm temperature in the third heat exchanger <NUM> is further heated by introduction of the steam S2. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a warmer temperature before and after the second introduction port <NUM> for the steam S2 {(warm)→(warmer) in <FIG>}.

The abovementioned extraction continuation step is continued until a predetermined time, for example, has elapsed from the start of the extraction continuation step. Moreover, during this continuation, the temperature of the extract immediately after the extractor <NUM> gradually rises, so the control unit C gradually reduces the amount of steam S2 introduced. After the abovementioned predetermined time has elapsed, the series of production steps shifts to the step of SP18 shown in <FIG>.

The control unit C makes preparations to terminate extraction by the extractor <NUM>, and implements an extraction termination preparation and warm water preparation step in order to prepare warm water for extracting an extract from another different starting material or the like after the series of production steps.

Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, the control unit C controls the valves <NUM>, <NUM> so as to close the valve <NUM> and to open the valve <NUM>. Furthermore, the control unit C maintains a state in which the valves <NUM>, <NUM> are open and the valve <NUM> is closed. Furthermore, the control unit C continues control of the pumps <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In addition, the control unit C controls the extractor <NUM> so that extraction of the extract is continued until a predetermined period has elapsed after warm water has stopped flowing into the interior thereof, after which extraction is terminated. Furthermore, the control unit C stops the introduction of the steam S2. Furthermore, the control unit C introduces the cold water W2 from the water introduction port <NUM> to the second recirculation flow path <NUM>.

As a result, the warm water stored in the warm water storage tank <NUM> circulates between the water supply flow path <NUM>, the warm water return flow path <NUM>, and the warm water storage tank <NUM>. Furthermore, the extract extracted by the extractor <NUM> until extraction is terminated flows through the extract recovery flow path <NUM>, after which it flows to the extract storage tank <NUM> where it is recovered. Furthermore, the steam S circulates through the second circulation flow path <NUM>.

Here, the warm water flowing through the warm water supply flow path <NUM> is heated by heat exchange with the steam S in the first heat exchanger <NUM> along said warm water supply flow path <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said warm water changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S flowing to the second circulation flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange with the warm water in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the water heated in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the warm water return flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange in the second heat exchanger <NUM> along the warm water return flow path <NUM> with the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM>, by reuse of said steam S. That is to say, the temperature of said warm water changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the second heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S cooled in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the second circulation flow path <NUM> is heated by heat exchange with the warm water in the second heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the second heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. After this, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature as a result of the cold water W2 being introduced {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the extract flowing through the extract recovery flow path <NUM> is a warm material. This extract is cooled by heat exchange in the third heat exchanger <NUM> along the extract recovery flow path <NUM> with the steam S cooled by the cold water W2, by reuse of said steam S. That is to say, the temperature of said extract changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the third heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S cooled by the cold water W2 and flowing to the second recirculation flow path <NUM> is heated by heat exchange with the warm water in the third heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the third heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}.

After this, the extract is further cooled by heat exchange with the cold water W1 in the fourth heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said extract changes from a cool temperature to a cooler temperature before and after the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(cooler) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the cold water W1 is heated by heat exchange with the extract in the fourth heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, said cold water W1 forms warm water that has changed from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}.

Furthermore, the warm water that has returned from the water return flow path <NUM> to the water storage tank <NUM> once again flows through the warm water supply flow path <NUM>. Said warm water is then heated by heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM> along said warm water supply flow path <NUM> with the steam S heated in the third heat exchanger <NUM>, by reuse of said steam S. That is to say, the temperature of said warm water changes from a cool temperature to a warm temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(cool)→(warm) in <FIG>}. Meanwhile, the steam S heated in the third heat exchanger <NUM> and flowing to the second circulation flow path <NUM> is cooled by heat exchange with the warm water in the first heat exchanger <NUM>. That is to say, the temperature of said steam S changes from a warm temperature to a cool temperature before and after the first heat exchanger <NUM> {(warm)→(cool) in <FIG>}.

The series of production steps is terminated after the abovementioned extraction termination preparation and warm water preparation step.

The action of this mode of embodiment will be described next.

According to this mode of embodiment, the second heat exchanger <NUM> performs heat exchange by reusing the steam S which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM>, so it is possible to reduce (to zero, for example) the amount of newly-introduced steam used for heat exchange in the second heat exchanger <NUM>, and it is thereby possible to reduce the consumption amount of steam used for heat exchange.

Furthermore, according to this mode of embodiment, the first heat exchanger <NUM> reuses the steam S which underwent heat exchange in the second heat exchanger <NUM>, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced steam used for heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM>, and it is thereby possible to further reduce the consumption amount of steam used for heat exchange.

Furthermore, according to this mode of embodiment, the third heat exchanger <NUM> performs heat exchange by reusing the steam S which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM>, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced steam used for heat exchange in the third heat exchanger <NUM>, and it is thereby possible to further reduce the consumption amount of steam used for heat exchange.

Furthermore, according to this mode of embodiment, the first heat exchanger <NUM> reuses the steam S which underwent heat exchange in the third heat exchanger <NUM>, so it is possible to reduce the amount of newly-introduced steam used for heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM>, and it is thereby possible to further reduce the consumption amount of heat exchange medium used for heat exchange.

Furthermore, according to this mode of embodiment, the flow path switching unit including the valves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the control unit C switches the flow path that circulates the steam S to either the first circulation flow path <NUM> or the second circulation flow path <NUM>, and as a result it is possible to switch whether or not heat exchange is performed in relation to the extract, and heat exchange can be efficiently performed.

Furthermore, according to this mode of embodiment, the adjustment unit including a valve which is not depicted and the control unit C adjusts the amount of steam S1, S2 introduced from the first introduction port <NUM> and the second introduction port <NUM>, so the range of adjustment is increased and heat exchange can be performed more efficiently than when the amount of steam S1 introduced is adjusted in only the first introduction port <NUM>.

Furthermore, according to this mode of embodiment, the water can be circulated between the warm water storage tank <NUM>, the warm water supply flow path <NUM>, and the warm water return flow path <NUM>, and repeatedly subjected to heat exchange in the first heat exchanger <NUM> and the second heat exchanger <NUM> along said flow paths. As a result, it is possible to set the temperature of the warm water at the optimum temperature for extraction by the extractor <NUM>.

A preferred mode of embodiment of the present invention was described above with reference to the appended drawings, but the present invention is not limited to this example. It is obvious that a person skilled in the art will be able to conceive of various modified examples and amended examples within the scope of the claims, and it will of course be understood that these also lie within the technical scope of the present invention.

For example, according to a mode of embodiment, the third heat exchanger <NUM> and/or the fourth heat exchanger <NUM> may be omitted.

Furthermore, according to a mode of embodiment, a tank or the like for temporarily receiving the extract may be provided in the extract recovery flow path <NUM> between the extractor <NUM> and the extract storage tank <NUM>.

Claim 1:
An extract production system (<NUM>) comprising:
a solvent storage unit (<NUM>) configured to store a solvent;
an extraction unit (<NUM>) configured to extract an extract from a starting material using the solvent arranged to flow into the interior thereof;
a first heat exchange unit (<NUM>) configured to subject the solvent arranged to flow into the extraction unit to heat exchange using a heat exchange medium (S);
a second heat exchange unit (<NUM>) configured to subject the solvent which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit (<NUM>) to heat exchange by reusing the heat exchange medium (S) which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit (<NUM>);
a solvent supply flow path (<NUM>) which is configured to connect the solvent storage unit (<NUM>) and the extraction unit (<NUM>), has the first heat exchange unit (<NUM>) disposed along the connection, and is configured to cause the solvent stored in the solvent storage unit to flow to the extraction unit; and
a solvent return flow path (<NUM>) which branches from the solvent supply flow path (<NUM>) downstream of the first heat exchange unit (<NUM>) to connect the solvent supply flow path (<NUM>) and the solvent storage unit (<NUM>), has the second heat exchange unit (<NUM>) disposed along the connection, and is configured to return the solvent which underwent heat exchange in the first heat exchange unit (<NUM>) to the solvent storage unit (<NUM>).