A cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, a combination cup, and an assembly device thereof.

Abstract

This invention relates to a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped top that extends above the cup and lid, a combination cup, and its assembly equipment. Belonging to the field of catering supplies technology, the cup sleeve has an integrally formed front baffle at its top. The cup sleeve surrounds the cup body and lid, with the top edge of the sleeve higher than the top edge of the cup body and the fastening edge of the lid. The front baffle extends above the top of the lid. The combination cup includes a cup body, a lid, and a cup sleeve, with the sleeve having an irregularly shaped top that extends above the cup and lid. This invention designs the cup sleeve so that its edge extends above the cup rim and the fastening edge of the lid, and the front baffle extends above the top of the lid. This design prevents food spillage, significantly obscures the mouth and face of the diner, promoting civilized dining. The large cup sleeve greatly increases the area for pattern printing, and the outline of the front baffle matches the outline of the pattern, enhancing the three-dimensional effect and visual impact. The combination cup ensures food hygiene, allows for long-term storage, and has good heat insulation. Furthermore, the designed assembly equipment effectively improves the accuracy, quality, and efficiency of assembling the combination cup.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of catering supplies technology, specifically relating to a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, a combination cup, and its assembly equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, disposable dining cups, such as milk tea cups and ice cream cups, generally consist of a cup body and a lid. The lid is made of plastic or is sealed with a plastic or paper film. People use straws or disposable forks and spoons to eat from these cups. In public places, this inevitably leads to uncivilized eating habits. Furthermore, lightweight snacks like popcorn, when served in their packaging, are prone to overflowing and spilling during consumption, affecting hygiene and also constituting uncivilized eating habits.

[0003] In addition, to provide consumers with a good dining experience, patterns are usually printed on the outer wall of packaging cups or beverage cups to enhance the product image and stimulate appetite. However, the cup body and lid are not a single piece; the lid's snap-fit ​​edge is usually larger than the cup rim. Therefore, the pattern can only be printed on the cup body and cannot be printed as a single piece; or the cup body and lid can have different patterns printed on them. Consequently, the area of ​​the printed pattern cannot be expanded; it is confined to the cup body, resulting in a small area, lack of three-dimensional effect, and poor image display performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the issues of uncivilized eating habits associated with existing packaged cups and beverage cups, as well as the small area for printed designs that confines the image to the cup body and lacks three-dimensional display capabilities, this invention provides a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped top that extends above the cup and lid, along with a combined cup and its assembly equipment. The cup sleeve is designed with its edge higher than the cup rim and the lid's fastening edge, and includes a front baffle that extends above the top of the lid. This design prevents food spillage and significantly obscures the eater's mouth and face, promoting civilized eating. Furthermore, the large cup sleeve greatly increases the printed area, enhancing the three-dimensional effect and visual impact. Additionally, the cup sleeve, when used in conjunction with the lid, ensures food hygiene (preventing dust from settling on food) and allows for long-term storage. The specific technical solution is as follows:

[0005] A cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped top that is higher than the cup and lid. The top of the cup sleeve 1 is integrally formed with a front baffle 1.1. The cup sleeve 1 is used to surround and enclose the cup body and the cup lid. The height of the top edge of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the height of the top edge of the cup body and the fastening edge of the cup lid. The front baffle 1.1 is higher than the top of the cup lid.

[0006] In the above technical solution, the cup sleeve 1 is a ring-shaped cup sleeve with the same shape as the cup body, and surrounds the fastening edge that fits the cup lid.

[0007] In the above technical solution, the front baffle 1.1 is an irregularly shaped baffle that extends partly upward from the upper edge of the cup sleeve 1. The outer wall of the cup sleeve 1 is printed with a pattern that extends to the front baffle 1.1. The edge contour shape of the front baffle 1.1 is the edge contour shape of the printed pattern. When eating, the front baffle 1.1 covers the mouth or face of the eater and prevents food from leaking out.

[0008] In the above technical solution, the cup sleeve 1 has hollow holes 1.12 cut out on the front panel and / or the cup body.

[0009] A combination cup uses a cup sleeve with an irregular upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid. The combination cup includes a cup body 2, a cup lid 3, and a cup sleeve 1. The cup sleeve 1 is a cup sleeve with an irregular upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid. The cup lid 3 is fastened to the upper edge of the cup body 2, and the cup sleeve 1 is fitted onto the cup body 2. The upper edge of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the fastening edge of the cup lid 3, and the front enclosure of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the top of the cup lid 3. The inner wall of the upper edge of the cup sleeve 1 is in contact with the outer wall of the fastening edge of the cup lid 3.

[0010] In the above technical solution, the cup sleeve 1 and the cup body 2 form a gap space.

[0011] In the above technical solution, the combination cup does not have a cup lid 3, the cup body 2 is sealed with paper film or plastic film, the upper edge of the cup sleeve 1 is equal to or higher than the upper edge of the cup body 2, and the front enclosure of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the cup body 2.

[0012] In the above technical solution, the cup lid 3 is a semi-circular snap lid, and the outer diameter of the snap edge of the cup lid is larger than the outer diameter of the rim of the cup body 2.

[0013] An assembly device for a combination cup is provided for assembling the aforementioned combination cup. The assembly device includes a cylinder 4, a cup receiving ring 5, a cup holding groove 6, and a cup lifting mechanism. The cup receiving ring 5 is fitted at the top of the cylinder 4, and the cup holding groove 6 is provided inside the cylinder 4. The cup lifting mechanism is located at the bottom of the cup holding groove 6 and is used to lift the combination cup or the cup holding groove 6. The cup holding groove 6 is a fixed groove or a movable groove that slides up and down along the inner wall of the cylinder 4.

[0014] In the above technical solution, the cup lifting mechanism is a spring-type lifting mechanism 7.1, a lever-type lifting mechanism 7.2, or an electric cylinder-type lifting mechanism 7.3.

[0015] In the above technical solution, the spring-type lifting mechanism 7.1 includes a base I 7.11, a movable plug 7.12, a spring 7.13, and a top core 7.14. The base I 7.11 is a "convex" shaped base with a stepped cavity. The protrusion of the base I 7.11 is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder 4, and the top surface of the protrusion of the base I 7.11 rests against the bottom end of the cup-supporting groove 6, which is a bottomless cylinder. The movable plug 7.12 is a "U"-shaped hollow plug located in the cavity of the base. The top of the movable plug 7.12 protrudes from the top surface of the base I 7.11, and the spring 7.13 is built into the movable plug 7.12. The top core 7.14... The cross-section is inverted T-shaped. The lower structure of the top core 7.14 is a circular base 7.15. The top of the top core 7.14 is inserted into the movable plug 7.12 and contacts or compresses the spring 7.13. The base 7.15 is provided with external threads, which engage with the internal threads of the cavity of the base I 7.11. The base 7.15 is also provided with an operating hole 7.16, through which the base 7.15 can be screwed in or out, and the screwing depth of the base 7.15 can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the degree of compression of the spring 7.13 by the top core 7.14. The movable plug 7.12 is controlled by the extension and retraction of the spring 7.13 to move up and down.

[0016] In the above technical solution, the lever-type lifting mechanism 7.2 includes a base II 7.21, the protrusion of which is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder 4. A lever mechanism is provided inside the base II 7.21. The lever mechanism includes a pressure seat 7.22, a balance rod 7.23, and a top ring rod 7.24. The balance rod 7.23 is limited by a positioning pin to form a lever structure. The pressure seat 7.22 is connected to the hand-pressing end of the balance rod 7.23, and the top ring rod 7.24 is connected to the lifting end of the balance rod 7.23. An annular extension 6.1 is integrally provided downward at the bottom of the cup holder 6. The top ring rod 7.24 is located in the cavity of the annular extension 6.1 and is used to pry the cup holder 6 upward. By pressing the pressure seat 7.22, the annular extension 6.1 is lifted through the lever action of the balance rod 7.23, and the cup holder 6 is lifted. The cup holder 6 moves upward along the inner wall of the cylinder 4.

[0017] In the above technical solution, the electric cylinder lifting mechanism 7.3 includes an electrical control box 7.31, a top cup seat 7.32, an electric cylinder 7.33, and a limit switch 7.34. The top of the top cup seat 7.32 is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder 4 and contacts the bottom of the cup support groove 6. The electric cylinder 7.33 is installed inside the top cup seat 7.32. The top rod of the electric cylinder 7.33 is connected to the top shaft 7.36 through a connecting rod sleeve 7.35. The limit switch 7.34 is installed on the top of the top cup seat 7.32. The limit switch 7.34 is pressed to contact the top shaft 7.36.

[0018] The electrical control box 7.31 is electrically connected to the limit switch 7.34 and the electric cylinder 7.33. The electrical control box 7.31 receives the downward signal from the limit switch 7.34 and controls the electric cylinder 7.33 to operate, lifting the cup holder 6;

[0019] The electric cylinder lifting mechanism also includes a proximity switch 7.37, which is installed on the outer wall of the cylinder 4. The proximity switch 7.37 is used to monitor whether the cup has detached from the cylinder 4, and the detection signal is transmitted to the electric control box 7.31. That is, after the cup detaches from the cylinder, the photoelectric sensor of the proximity switch 7.37 detects the signal and transmits it to the electric control box 7.31. After receiving the detection signal, the electric control box 7.31 controls the electric cylinder 7.33 to return to its original position.

[0020] The bottom of the electric cylinder 7.33 is fixed by a positioning plate. The positioning plate has an external thread and engages with the internal thread of the cavity of the top cup seat 7.32. The positioning plate also has an operating hole, through which the positioning plate can be screwed in or out and the longitudinal position of the electric cylinder 7.33 can be adjusted.

[0021] The present invention provides a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, a combined cup, and an assembly device thereof. Compared with the prior art, the advantages of this invention are as follows:

[0022] I. This invention designs a one-piece cup sleeve with an integral, irregularly shaped barrier that extends above the rim of the cup. The barrier is located in front of the diner's face and can cover the cup lid, the diner's mouth, and even the diner's face, thus serving as a civilized dining practice and preventing unsightly eating habits in public places.

[0023] Second, the edge of the cup sleeve of this invention is higher than the top edge of the cup and higher than the snapping edge of the cup lid. When encountering a cup without a lid, or when it is necessary to remove the lid to eat, the high edge and front guard of the cup sleeve can effectively prevent food from spilling. For example, when eating popcorn, it can prevent popcorn from spilling out from the front, effectively ensuring environmental hygiene and civilized eating.

[0024] Third, the edge of the cup sleeve of this invention is higher than the top edge of the cup and higher than the fastening edge of the lid. In addition, the front baffle is much higher than the top edge of the cup and the lid, so the cup sleeve area can support the printing of large-format patterns, and is not limited by its own area. Increasing the pattern area has a more eye-catching and impactful visual effect. The edge contour shape of the front baffle is the same as the edge contour shape of the printed pattern, making the pattern presented on the cup sleeve more three-dimensional and improving the user experience.

[0025] Fourth, the cup sleeve can be removed after the cup is used, and the cup sleeve can be used as a decorative item.

[0026] V. The cup sleeve of this invention is made of paper, plastic, or other materials. When the cup sleeve is a paper tube or a thin plastic tube, the cup sleeve has an irregularly shaped front enclosure. After the annular cup sleeve is prepared, the force is uneven, and the edge is not a regular circular edge. Moreover, it is subjected to pressure during transportation or storage, which further affects the regularity of the edge of the cup sleeve and affects the smoothness of cup assembly. Therefore, it is still necessary to solve the assembly problem of this irregular cup sleeve.

[0027] Because the cup sleeve has an irregularly shaped front baffle, after the ring-shaped cup sleeve is made, the edge of the cup sleeve is not a regular circle, making it difficult to accurately align the snap-fit ​​edge of the cup lid with the edge of the cup sleeve for precise assembly. Manual operation is prone to misalignment, meaning that the snap-fit ​​edge of the cup lid will be exposed above the edge of the cup sleeve and cannot be inserted into the cup sleeve (the edge of the cup sleeve is flat). Especially when working quickly, it is very easy for the snap-fit ​​edge of the cup lid to fail to smoothly enter the edge of the cup sleeve, resulting in assembly difficulties and affecting the consumer's user experience. This invention addresses the problem of misalignment in combination cup sets by designing a precision assembly device for combination cups. It employs a cup-collecting ring, a cup-supporting groove, and a cylinder-shaped cup sleeve that maintains a regular shape. After the cup sleeve is fully inserted into the cup, its rim naturally forms a standardized shape. When the cup containing food is placed inside, the lid's snap-fit ​​edge falls precisely into the cup sleeve (the shape of the cup sleeve's rim matches the shape of the lid's snap-fit ​​edge), ensuring 100% accurate cup sleeve fitting and preventing misalignment, i.e., the lid's snap-fit ​​edge not fitting properly into the cup sleeve. This improves assembly efficiency and quality, guaranteeing a positive user experience.

[0028] VI. Existing technologies for printing patterns on cup bodies are difficult and costly. This invention, a modular cup, allows for printing patterns on the cup sleeve instead of the cup body, which is then rolled into a sleeve, resulting in lower printing costs. After assembly, the cup body and surrounding areas of the sleeve form a unified pattern, eliminating printing gaps.

[0029] VII. The cup sleeve of this invention can be freely cut with hollow holes in the front baffle and the cup body, which helps to give free rein to design creativity. The hollow design can also reduce the rigidity of the cup sleeve, and the hollow in the cup body can be used to observe the position of food and beverage in the cup.

[0030] 8. Currently, most cups on the market with irregularly shaped rims are open-mouthed and cannot be sealed or capped. They are only suitable for holding dry food, which should be consumed immediately after purchase. The irregular rims serve only an aesthetic purpose and do not contribute to civilized dining. This invention's combination cup can be sealed and capped, and can hold not only solid food but also beverages. It ensures food hygiene, prevents spoilage during long-term storage, has good heat retention (for both cold and hot temperatures), and is convenient to carry. Cup sleeves are made according to specific models, and when fitted with the sleeve, the inner cup is compatible with various other cups, making it more versatile.

[0031] 9. The upper edge of the cup sleeve of the present invention surrounds the cup lid fastening edge. Since the diameter of the fastening edge is larger than the diameter of the cup body, a certain gap is formed between the inclined surface of the cup sleeve and the inclined surface of the cup body. This gap space, as well as the thickness of the cup sleeve, has a further heat insulation effect, preventing scalding or cold hands. Attached Figure Description

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a bottom perspective view of a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the cup body of a combination cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 4 This is a front view of the lid of a combination cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 This is a bottom perspective view of the lid of a combination cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the combined cup body and lid of a cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention after assembly.

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a combination cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a combined cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 10 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 12 This is a rear view of a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 13 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 15 This is an exploded view of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 16 This is a rear view of a cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 18 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly device for a combination cup according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the state of a combination cup after it has been precisely assembled using an assembly device according to the present invention.

[0051] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of a combination cup of the present invention after it has been manually assembled in a staggered manner.

[0052] In the diagram: 1-cup sleeve, 1.1-front baffle, 1.12-hollow hole; 2-cup body; 3-cup lid; 4-cylinder, 5-cup ring, 6-cup support groove, 6.1-ring extension;

[0053] 7.1-Spring-type lifting mechanism, 7.11-Base I, 7.12-Moving plug, 7.13-Spring, 7.14-Top core, 7.15-Chassis, 7.16-Operating hole;

[0054] 7.2-Lever-type lifting mechanism, 7.21-Base II, 7.22-Pressure seat, 7.23-Balance link, 7.24-Top ring link;

[0055] 7.3-Electric cylinder lifting mechanism, 7.31-Electric control box, 7.32-Top cup holder, 7.33-Electric cylinder, 7.34-Limit switch, 7.35-Connecting rod sleeve, 7.36-Top shaft, 7.37-Proximity switch. Detailed Implementation

[0056] The following are specific implementation cases and appendices. Figure 1-20 The present invention will be further described, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0057] Example 1

[0058] A cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped top that extends above the cup and lid, such as... Figure 1-2 As shown, the cup sleeve 1 has a front baffle 1.1 integrally formed at the top. The cup sleeve 1 is used to surround and enclose the cup body and the cup lid. The cup sleeve 1 is a ring-shaped cup sleeve with the same shape as the cup body and surrounds the fastening edge of the cup lid. The height of the top edge of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the height of the top edge of the cup body and the fastening edge of the cup lid. The front baffle 1.1 is higher than the top of the cup lid. The front baffle 1.1 is an irregularly shaped baffle that is integrally formed by partially extending upward from the upper edge of the cup sleeve 1. The outer wall of the cup sleeve 1 is printed with a pattern that extends to the front baffle 1.1. The edge contour shape of the front baffle 1.1 is the edge contour shape of the printed pattern. When eating, the front baffle 1.1 covers the mouth or face of the eater and prevents food from leaking out.

[0059] A combination cup, employing the aforementioned cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that extends above the cup and lid, such as... Figure 3-8 As shown, the combination cup includes a cup body 2, a cup lid 3, and a cup sleeve 1. The cup sleeve 1 is an irregularly shaped sleeve with an upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid. The cup lid 3 is fastened to the upper edge of the cup body 2, and the cup sleeve 1 is fitted onto the cup body 2. The upper edge of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the fastening edge of the cup lid 3, and the front rim of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the top of the cup lid 3. The inner wall of the upper edge of the cup sleeve 1 fits against the outer wall of the fastening edge of the cup lid 3. The cup lid 3 is a semi-circular lid, and a straw can be inserted into the top of the lid. The outer diameter of the fastening edge of the cup lid is larger than the outer diameter of the rim of the cup body 2.

[0060] An assembly device for a combination cup, used to assemble the aforementioned combination cup, such as... Figure 9-11 As shown, the assembly equipment includes a cylinder 4, a cup collecting ring 5, a cup holding groove 6, and a cup lifting mechanism. The top of the cylinder 4 is fitted with the cup collecting ring 5, and the cylinder 4 is provided with a cup holding groove 6. The cup lifting mechanism is located at the bottom of the cup holding groove 6 and is used to lift the assembled cups. The cup holding groove 6 is a fixed groove.

[0061] In this embodiment, the cup-lifting mechanism of the assembled equipment is a spring-type lifting mechanism 7.1. The spring-type lifting mechanism 7.1 includes a base I 7.11, a movable plug 7.12, a spring 7.13, and a top core 7.14. The base I 7.11 is a "convex" shaped base with a stepped cavity. The protrusion of the base I 7.11 is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder 4, and the top surface of the protrusion of the base I 7.11 rests against the bottom end of the cup-supporting groove 6, which is a bottomless cylinder. The movable plug 7.12 is a "U"-shaped hollow plug located in the cavity of the base. The top of the movable plug 7.12 protrudes from the top surface of the base I 7.11, and the movable plug 7.12 contains a spring 7. 13; The top core 7.14 has an inverted T-shaped cross-section. The lower structure of the top core 7.14 is a circular base 7.15. The top of the top core 7.14 is inserted into the movable plug 7.12 and contacts or compresses the spring 7.13. The base 7.15 is provided with external threads, which engage with the internal threads of the cavity of the machine base I 7.11. The base 7.15 is also provided with an operating hole 7.16, through which the base 7.15 can be screwed in or out, and the screwing depth of the base 7.15 can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the degree of compression of the spring 7.13 by the top core 7.14. The movable plug 7.12 is controlled by the extension and retraction of the spring 7.13 to move up and down.

[0062] The assembly and usage principle of the assembly equipment in this embodiment is as follows:

[0063] The cup sleeve is placed into the cylinder via a cup-collecting ring. During placement, the cup-collecting ring keeps the cup sleeve in a standardized shape to prevent it from deforming. The cup-supporting groove supports and limits the cup sleeve, with the top of the cup sleeve 1mm~5mm lower than the top edge of the equipment to ensure that the cup lid does not get stuck. The irregular paper tube (cup sleeve) is positioned and shaped by the inner wall of the cup-supporting groove to achieve a standardized cup sleeve opening.

[0064] After filling the cup with food or beverage ingredients and sealing it, put on the lid. The lid should have a chamfered edge. Place the cup into the container and use the spring reaction force and your hand to press the cup into the cup sleeve and tighten it.

[0065] After releasing your hand, the cup with the sleeve on will be pushed upwards by the spring's return force. The movable stopper will press against the bottom of the cup, thus pushing the cup out (pushing it out to a certain height of 10mm~50mm, not completely out, so as to facilitate manual handling), thus achieving the operation of accurately putting the sleeve on the cup.

[0066] Remove the combination cup (with cup sleeve).

[0067] Because the cup sleeve is irregularly shaped, the rim of the sleeve is not a regular circle after manufacturing. It's difficult to align the lid's snap-fit ​​edge with the sleeve rim, and manual assembly can easily result in misalignment, meaning the lid's snap-fit ​​edge will be exposed above the sleeve rim. Figure 20 As shown; especially during busy periods, rapid manual operation can easily lead to the lid's snap-fit ​​edge not smoothly entering the cup sleeve rim, causing assembly difficulties and affecting consumer use. This invention addresses the problem of misalignment in combination cup sets by designing a precise assembly device for combination cups. It uses a cup-collecting ring and a cup-supporting groove to ensure the cup sleeve is in a regular shape. After the cup is placed in the sleeve, the lid's snap-fit ​​edge falls precisely into the sleeve, guaranteeing 100% accurate fitting and preventing misalignment. Figure 19 As shown, this improves assembly efficiency and quality, ensuring a positive user experience for consumers.

[0068] Example 2

[0069] The structure of the cup sleeve with an irregular upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, and the structure of the combined cup in this embodiment are the same as described in Embodiment 1; the difference between the cup sleeve in this embodiment and the cup sleeve in Embodiment 1 is that the cup sleeve 1 has a perforated hole 1.12 cut into the cup body surface, such as... Figure 12 As shown.

[0070] An assembly device for a combination cup, used to assemble the aforementioned combination cup, such as... Figure 13-15 As shown, the assembly equipment includes a cylinder 4, a cup-collecting ring 5, a cup-supporting groove 6, and a cup-lifting mechanism. The top of the cylinder 4 is fitted with the cup-collecting ring 5, and the cylinder 4 is provided with a cup-supporting groove 6. The cup-lifting mechanism is located at the bottom of the cup-supporting groove 6 and is used to lift the cup-supporting groove 6. The cup-supporting groove 6 is a movable groove that slides up and down along the inner wall of the cylinder 4.

[0071] In this embodiment, the cup-lifting mechanism of the assembly equipment is a lever-type lifting mechanism 7.2. The lever-type lifting mechanism 7.2 includes a base II 7.21, the protrusion of which is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder 4. A lever mechanism is provided inside the base II 7.21. The lever mechanism includes a pressure seat 7.22, a balance link 7.23, and a top ring link 7.24. The balance link 7.23 is limited by a positioning pin to form a lever structure. The pressure seat 7.22 is connected to the balance link 7.23. The hand-pressing end of .23, the top ring connecting rod 7.24 is connected to the lifting end of the balance connecting rod 7.23; the bottom of the cup support groove 6 is integrally provided with an annular extension 6.1 facing downward, the top ring connecting rod 7.24 is located in the cavity of the annular extension 6.1, and the top ring connecting rod 7.24 is used to pry the cup support groove 6 upward; the hand-pressing seat 7.22, through the lever action of the balance connecting rod 7.23, lifts the annular extension 6.1, and then lifts the cup support groove 6, the cup support groove 6 moves upward along the inner wall of the cylinder 4.

[0072] The assembly and usage principle of the assembly equipment in this embodiment is as follows:

[0073] The cup sleeve is placed into the cylinder via a cup-collecting ring. During placement, the cup-collecting ring keeps the cup sleeve in a standardized shape to prevent it from deforming. The cup-supporting groove supports and limits the cup sleeve, with the top of the cup sleeve 1mm~5mm lower than the top edge of the equipment to ensure that the cup lid does not get stuck. The irregular paper tube (cup sleeve) is positioned and shaped by the inner wall of the cup-supporting groove to achieve a standardized cup sleeve opening.

[0074] After filling the cup with food or beverage ingredients and sealing it, put on the lid. The lid should have a chamfered edge. Place the cup into the container and press down on the cup or use the cup's own weight to press it into the cup sleeve and seal it tightly.

[0075] Manually press the pressure seat to lift the cup holder slot, raising the combined cup to a certain height. Then, manually remove the combined cup (with the cup sleeve) to accurately fit the cup sleeve onto the cup. Specifically, the pressure seat is balanced by a positioning pin, and the lever force of the balance linkage uses the cup-lifting linkage to pry the cup holder slot upwards, pushing the fitted cup out 30mm~50mm; then remove the combined cup.

[0076] Release the pressure seat, and the cup holder will return to its original position under its own weight.

[0077] Because the cup sleeve is irregularly shaped, the rim of the sleeve is not a regular circle after manufacturing. It's difficult to align the lid's snap-fit ​​edge with the sleeve rim, and manual assembly can easily result in misalignment, meaning the lid's snap-fit ​​edge will be exposed above the sleeve rim. Figure 20As shown; especially during busy periods, rapid manual operation can easily lead to the lid's snap-fit ​​edge not smoothly entering the cup sleeve rim, causing assembly difficulties and affecting consumer use. This invention addresses the problem of misalignment in combination cup sets by designing a precise assembly device for combination cups. It uses a cup-collecting ring and a cup-supporting groove to ensure the cup sleeve is in a regular shape. After the cup is placed in the sleeve, the lid's snap-fit ​​edge falls precisely into the sleeve, guaranteeing 100% accurate fitting and preventing misalignment. Figure 19 As shown, this improves assembly efficiency and quality, ensuring a positive user experience for consumers.

[0078] Example 3

[0079] The structure of the cup sleeve with an irregular upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid, and the structure of the combined cup in this embodiment are the same as described in Embodiment 1; the difference between the cup sleeve in this embodiment and the cup sleeve in Embodiment 1 is that the cup sleeve 1 has perforated holes 1.12 cut on the front rim and the cup body, such as... Figure 16 As shown.

[0080] An assembly device for a combination cup, used to assemble the aforementioned combination cup, such as... Figure 17-18 As shown, the assembly equipment includes a cylinder 4, a cup-collecting ring 5, a cup-supporting groove 6, and a cup-lifting mechanism. The top of the cylinder 4 is fitted with the cup-collecting ring 5, and the cylinder 4 is provided with a cup-supporting groove 6. The cup-lifting mechanism is located at the bottom of the cup-supporting groove 6 and is used to lift the cup-supporting groove 6. The cup-supporting groove 6 is a movable groove that slides up and down along the inner wall of the cylinder 4.

[0081] In this embodiment, the cup-lifting mechanism of the assembled equipment is an electric cylinder type lifting mechanism 7.3. The electric cylinder type lifting mechanism 7.3 includes an electrical control box 7.31, a top cup seat 7.32, an electric cylinder 7.33, and a limit switch 7.34. The top of the top cup seat 7.32 is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder 4 and contacts the bottom of the cup support groove 6. The electric cylinder 7.33 is installed inside the top cup seat 7.32. The top rod of the electric cylinder 7.33 is connected to the top shaft 7.36 through a connecting rod sleeve 7.35. The limit switch 7.34 is installed on the top of the top cup seat 7.32. The limit switch 7.34 is pressed and contacts the top shaft 7.36.

[0082] The electrical control box 7.31 is electrically connected to the limit switch 7.34 and the electric cylinder 7.33. The electrical control box 7.31 receives the downward signal from the limit switch 7.34 and controls the electric cylinder 7.33 to operate, lifting the cup holder 6.

[0083] The electric cylinder lifting mechanism also includes a proximity switch 7.37, which is installed on the outer wall of the cylinder 4. The proximity switch 7.37 is used to monitor whether the cup has detached from the cylinder 4, and the detection signal is transmitted to the electric control box 7.31. That is, after the cup detaches from the cylinder, the photoelectric sensor of the proximity switch 7.37 detects the signal and transmits it to the electric control box 7.31. After receiving the detection signal, the electric control box 7.31 controls the electric cylinder 7.33 to return to its original position.

[0084] The bottom of the electric cylinder 7.33 is fixed by a positioning plate. The positioning plate has an external thread and engages with the internal thread of the cavity of the top cup seat 7.32. The positioning plate also has an operating hole, through which the positioning plate can be screwed in or out and the longitudinal position of the electric cylinder 7.33 can be adjusted.

[0085] The assembly and usage principle of the assembly equipment in this embodiment is as follows:

[0086] The cup sleeve is placed into the cylinder via a cup-collecting ring. During placement, the cup-collecting ring keeps the cup sleeve in a standardized shape to prevent it from deforming. The cup-supporting groove supports and limits the cup sleeve, with the top of the cup sleeve 1mm~5mm lower than the top edge of the equipment to ensure that the cup lid does not get stuck. The irregular paper tube (cup sleeve) is positioned and shaped by the inner wall of the cup-supporting groove to achieve a standardized cup sleeve opening.

[0087] After filling the cup with food or beverage and sealing it, put on the lid. The lid should have a chamfered edge. Place the cup into the cylinder and press down on the cup with your hand or rely on the cup's own weight (a cup filled with food weighs more than 0.5 liters) to press the cup into the sleeve and seal it tightly. As the cup moves downward, it will press down on the limit switch, activating the electric cylinder to push upward.

[0088] When the cup is pushed out to a height of 30mm~50mm from the top, the electric cylinder reaches its limit and stops. The assembled cup (with the cup sleeve) is then manually removed, and the cup sleeve is precisely fitted onto the assembled cup.

[0089] After the cup is removed, the proximity switch detects the detachment signal and transmits it to the control box, which then controls the electric cylinder to return to its original position.

[0090] Because the cup sleeve is irregularly shaped, the rim of the sleeve is not a regular circle after manufacturing. It's difficult to align the lid's snap-fit ​​edge with the sleeve rim, and manual assembly can easily result in misalignment, meaning the lid's snap-fit ​​edge will be exposed above the sleeve rim. Figure 20 As shown; especially during busy periods, rapid manual operation can easily lead to the lid's snap-fit ​​edge not smoothly entering the cup sleeve rim, causing assembly difficulties and affecting consumer use. This invention addresses the problem of misalignment in combination cup sets by designing a precise assembly device for combination cups. It uses a cup-collecting ring and a cup-supporting groove to ensure the cup sleeve is in a regular shape. After the cup is placed in the sleeve, the lid's snap-fit ​​edge falls precisely into the sleeve, guaranteeing 100% accurate fitting and preventing misalignment. Figure 19 As shown, this improves assembly efficiency and quality, ensuring a positive user experience for consumers.

[0091] Example 4

[0092] The structure of the cup sleeve with an irregularly shaped upper opening that is higher than the cup and lid in this embodiment is the same as described in Embodiment 1. The difference between the combined cup in this embodiment and the combined cup in Embodiment 1 is that the combined cup does not have a lid 3, the cup body 2 is sealed with a paper or plastic film, the upper edge of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the upper edge of the cup body 2, and the front baffle of the cup sleeve 1 is higher than the cup body 2. The assembly equipment for the combined cup is the same as described in Embodiment 1. The assembly equipment can constrain the shape of the cup sleeve edge to a standard shape, making it convenient for the upper edge of the cup body 2 to be inserted into the cup sleeve.

Claims

1. An assembly apparatus for a combination cup, used to assemble a combination cup, characterized in that, The assembling device includes a cylinder barrel (4), a cup receiving ring (5), a cup supporting groove (6) and a cup lifting mechanism (7). A cup receiving ring (5) is sleeved on the top end of the cylinder barrel (4). A cup supporting groove (6) is arranged inside the cylinder barrel (4). The cup lifting mechanism (7) is located at the bottom of the cup supporting groove (6) and is used for lifting the combined cup or the cup supporting groove (6). The cup supporting groove (6) is a fixed groove or a movable groove that slides up and down along the inner wall of the cylinder barrel (4). The cup lifting mechanism (7) is a spring type lifting mechanism (7.1), a lever type lifting mechanism (7.2) or an electric cylinder type lifting mechanism (7.3). The spring type lifting mechanism (7.1) includes a base I (7.11), a movable plug (7.12), a spring (7.13) and a top core (7.14). The top of the base I (7.11) is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder barrel (4), and the top surface of the base I (7.11) abuts against the bottom end of the cup supporting groove (6). The cup supporting groove (6) is a cylinder without a bottom surface. The movable plug (7.12) is a "C" shaped hollow plug located in the cavity of the base. The top end of the movable plug (7.12) protrudes from the top surface of the base I (7.11), and a spring (7.13) is arranged inside the movable plug (7.12). The top core (7.14) has a cross-section in the shape of an "inverted T". The lower structure of the top core (7.14) is a circular chassis (7.15). The top end of the top core (7.14) is inserted into the movable plug (7.12) and contacts or compresses the spring (7.13). The lever type lifting mechanism (7.2) includes a base II (7.21). The top of the base II (7.21) is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder barrel (4), and a lever mechanism is arranged inside the base II (7.21). The electric cylinder type lifting mechanism (7.3) includes an electric control box (7.31), a cup topping seat (7.32), an electric cylinder (7.33) and a travel switch (7.34). The cross-section of the cup topping seat (7.32) is "convex". The top of the cup topping seat (7.32) is inserted into the bottom end of the cylinder barrel (4) and contacts the bottom of the cup supporting groove (6). An electric cylinder (7.33) is arranged inside the cup topping seat (7.32). The ejector rod of the electric cylinder (7.33) is connected to a top shaft (7.36) through a connecting rod sleeve (7.35). A travel switch (7.34) is arranged on the top of the cup topping seat (7.32), and the travel switch (7.34) is pressed to contact the top shaft (7.36). A combined cup assembled by the assembling device includes a cup body (2), a cup lid (3) and a cup sleeve (1). The cup sleeve (1) is a cup sleeve with a special-shaped upper opening higher than the cup and the lid. The cup lid (3) is buckled on the upper edge of the cup body (2). The cup sleeve (1) is sleeved on the cup body (2). The upper edge of the cup sleeve (1) is higher than the buckling edge of the cup lid (3). The front enclosing part of the cup sleeve (1) is higher than the top end of the cup lid (3). The inner wall of the upper edge of the cup sleeve (1) is in contact with the outer wall of the buckling edge of the cup lid (3).

2. The assembly equipment for a combination cup according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the spring-type lifting mechanism (7.1), the chassis (7.15) is provided with an external thread and is screwed into the internal thread of the cavity of the base I (7.11). The chassis (7.15) is also provided with an operating hole (7.16). The chassis (7.15) can be screwed in or out through the operating hole (7.16) and the screwing depth of the chassis (7.15) can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the compression degree of the top core (7.14) on the spring (7.13). The movable plug (7.12) is controlled by the extension and retraction of the spring (7.13) to move up and down.

3. The assembly equipment for a combination cup according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the lever-type lifting mechanism (7.2), the lever mechanism includes a pressure seat (7.22), a balance link (7.23), and a top ring link (7.24). The balance link (7.23) is limited by a positioning pin to form a lever structure. The pressure seat (7.22) is connected to the hand-pressing end of the balance link (7.23), and the top ring link (7.24) is connected to the lifting end of the balance link (7.23). The bottom of the cup holder (6) is integrally provided with an annular extension (6.1) facing downwards. The top ring link (7.24) is located in the cavity of the annular extension (6.1) and is used to pry the cup holder (6) upwards. When the hand presses the pressure seat (7.22), the annular extension (6.1) is lifted by the lever action of the balance link (7.23), and then the cup holder (6) is lifted. The cup holder (6) moves upwards along the inner wall of the cylinder (4).

4. The assembly equipment for a combination cup according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the electric cylinder type lifting mechanism (7.3), the electric control box (7.31) is electrically connected to the limit switch (7.34) and the electric cylinder (7.33). The electric control box (7.31) receives the downward signal from the limit switch (7.34) and controls the electric cylinder (7.33) to run, lifting the cup holder (6). The electric cylinder lifting mechanism also includes a proximity switch (7.37). The proximity switch (7.37) is installed on the outer wall of the cylinder (4). The proximity switch (7.37) is used to monitor whether the cup is detached from the cylinder (4). The detection signal is transmitted to the electric control box (7.31). That is, after the cup is detached from the cylinder, the photoelectric sensor of the proximity switch (7.37) detects the signal and transmits it to the electric control box (7.31). After receiving the detection signal, the electric control box (7.31) controls the electric cylinder (7.33) to return to its original position.

5. The assembly equipment for a combination cup according to claim 1, characterized in that, The combination cup does not have a lid (3), the cup body (2) is sealed with paper film or plastic film, the upper edge of the cup sleeve (1) is equal to or higher than the upper edge of the cup body (2), and the front enclosure of the cup sleeve (1) is higher than the cup body (2).

6. The assembly equipment for a combination cup according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cup sleeve (1) has perforated holes (1.12) cut on the front panel and or the cup body.

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