A pet food hardness detection and sorting device

Abstract

This invention discloses a pet food hardness testing and sorting device, relating to the field of food hardness testing technology. It includes a sample transfer assembly for continuously conveying test samples, fixedly installed at the center of the top of a support box. A side mounting bracket is fixedly connected to the upper surface of the right end of the support box, and a hardness testing assembly is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the side mounting bracket. This invention employs a modular combination structure of a detachable transfer tray and mold blocks. The transfer tray can be quickly disassembled and positioned using a lower locking handle, and the mold blocks at each station can be independently plugged in and replaced. It allows for quick replacement of corresponding contour-guided limiting molds according to different shapes, sizes, and types of pet food, adapting to the limiting and fixing of various pellets, meat strips, chew sticks, and freeze-dried foods. Simultaneously, the modular structure allows for individual replacement and cleaning of damaged parts without requiring overall disassembly of the equipment, significantly reducing equipment maintenance costs and downtime for cleaning.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of food hardness testing, specifically to a pet food hardness testing and sorting device. Background Technology

[0002] As the variety of pet food products continues to expand, the requirements for hardness testing for snacks of different textures and shapes are gradually increasing. Existing conventional testing equipment can only complete simple compression tests and cannot take into account multiple indicators such as puncture, shearing, and localized point pressure. Most rotary testing equipment on the market has a material limiting structure that is welded and fixed as a whole, which makes it impossible to quickly change the contour-following fixture. The positioning effect is poor for irregularly shaped pet food, and it is easy for it to deviate and slip during the extrusion process. The material carrying tank is a closed structure, and the debris generated by extrusion is easy to accumulate. It lacks a synchronous self-cleaning structure, and the frequency of manual cleaning is high, which affects continuous production. At the same time, the replacement of the detection head of traditional equipment is cumbersome and cannot quickly switch between multiple testing conditions. The equipment has obvious shortcomings in versatility and cleanliness. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a pet food hardness detection and sorting device.

[0004] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides the following technical solution: The present invention discloses a pet food hardness testing and sorting device, comprising: a sample transfer component for continuously transporting test samples is fixedly installed at the center of the top of a support box; a side mounting bracket is fixedly connected to the upper surface of the right end of the support box; a hardness testing component for continuously testing pet food samples is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the side mounting bracket; and a control panel for operating the sample transfer component and the hardness testing component is fixedly installed on the right side of the upper end of the side mounting bracket via a mounting plate.

[0005] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sample transfer assembly includes a transfer spindle. The upper end of the transfer spindle is fixedly engaged with a mounting base at the top of the support box via a bearing with a built-in protrusion. A base is fixedly installed at the center of the bottom surface of the inner cavity of the support box. A cam divider is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the base via multiple bolts. A servo motor is fixedly installed on the right side of the front end of the cam divider, and the output shaft at the left end of the servo motor is fixedly connected to the rotating shaft at the right side of the front end of the cam divider via a coupling. The rotating shaft at the rear of the top of the cam divider is fixedly connected to the lower end of the transfer spindle via multiple bolts. A regular hexagonal docking block is fixedly connected at the center of the upper end face of the transfer spindle. A transfer tray is movably engaged on the outer surface of the docking block. A lower locking hole is opened on the front side of the docking block. A locking groove corresponding to the position of the lower locking hole is opened at the center of the front side of the transfer tray. A lower locking handle is threadedly connected to the inner cavity of both the locking groove and the locking hole.

[0006] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of mold slots are provided on the periphery of the upper surface of the transfer tray. A mold block is movably engaged in the inner cavity of each mold slot. A guide groove extending to the upper surface of the upper surface of each mold block is provided at the middle position. A decagonal columnar main loading cylinder is fixedly connected to the middle position of the upper surface of the transfer tray. A rechargeable electric push rod is fixedly installed on the inner wall of each side of the lower end of the main loading cylinder. A limiting push plate is fixedly connected to the output end of each electric push rod by a plurality of bolts. A unloading plate that is engaged in the guide groove is fixedly connected to the lower surface of each limiting push plate near the end of the main loading cylinder. Two lower detection cameras with observation heads arranged opposite each other are embedded on the two sides of each limiting push plate away from the main loading cylinder.

[0007] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of the limiting push plates has an auxiliary loading groove on its lower surface near the main loading cylinder. Each of the auxiliary loading grooves has a plurality of support springs fixedly connected to its upper surface near the main loading cylinder. Each support spring has a long brush fixedly connected to its lower end. Each long brush has an inner baffle fixedly connected to its upper surface away from the main loading cylinder.

[0008] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an annular collection trough is fixedly installed on the outer side of the transfer tray and on the upper surface of the support box by two bolts. A guide plate 1 arranged in a downward slope is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the right end of the annular collection trough. A guide plate 2 arranged in a downward slope is fixedly connected to the back of the upper end of the guide plate 1. A partition plate is vertically fixedly connected to the inner wall of the left end of the annular collection trough.

[0009] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hardness testing component includes a lifting cylinder. The bottom of the lifting cylinder is fixedly mounted on the upper surface of the side mounting bracket. A rotary cylinder is fixedly mounted on the piston rod at the lower end of the lifting cylinder via a mounting plate. An adjusting platform is fixedly mounted on the output shaft at the left end of the rotary cylinder via a mounting plate. A positioning slot is provided at the center of the lower surface of the adjusting platform. A positioning block is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot. A pressure sensor is fixedly mounted on the lower end of the positioning block via multiple bolts. A detection plate is fixedly mounted on the lower end of the pressure sensor via multiple bolts. An outer baffle is fixedly connected to the lower surface of the right end of the detection plate. An upper detection camera is fixedly mounted inside the outer baffle.

[0010] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a positioning slot 2 is provided in the middle of the front of the adjustment platform, a positioning block 2 is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot 2, a pressure sensor 2 is fixedly installed at the front end of the positioning block 2 by multiple bolts, a detection pressure column is fixedly installed at the front end of the pressure sensor 2 by multiple bolts, an outer baffle 2 is fixedly connected to the front of the right end of the detection pressure column, and an upper detection camera 2 is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle 2.

[0011] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a positioning slot three is provided at the middle position of the upper surface of the adjustment platform, a positioning block three is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot three, a pressure sensor three is fixedly installed at the top of the positioning block three by multiple bolts, a detection cone is fixedly installed at the top of the pressure sensor three by multiple bolts, an outer baffle three is fixedly connected to the upper surface of the right end of the detection cone, and an upper detection camera three is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle three.

[0012] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a positioning slot 4 is provided at the middle position of the rear surface of the adjustment platform, a positioning block 4 is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot 4, a pressure sensor 4 is fixedly installed at the rear end of the positioning block 4 by multiple bolts, a detection toothed plate is fixedly installed at the rear end of the pressure sensor 4 by multiple bolts, an outer baffle 4 is fixedly connected to the rear surface of the right end of the detection toothed plate, and an upper detection camera 4 is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle 4.

[0013] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each of the positioning blocks 1, 2, 3, and 4 is provided with an upper locking hole on its left side. The left side of the adjusting platform is provided with four alignment holes that communicate with the inner cavity of each upper locking hole. Each alignment hole and the inner cavity of the upper locking hole is connected to an upper locking rod. The left end of each upper locking rod is fixedly connected to a pull plate. A positioning spring is fixedly connected to the center of the pull plate opposite to the adjusting platform.

[0014] The beneficial effects of this invention are: 1. This pet food hardness testing and sorting device achieves multi-dimensional, precise mechanical testing, closely reflecting actual consumption conditions: This device breaks through the limitations of traditional single-plane extrusion testing, integrating four mechanical testing modes: planar compressive strength, point-like local extrusion, cone-shaped puncture, and toothed plate shearing. It can comprehensively collect multiple mechanical parameters of pet food, such as compressive strength, puncture resistance, shear toughness, and local deformation capacity. With multiple sets of upper and lower vision cameras, it simultaneously collects the material's extrusion deformation, cracking, and damage status, achieving dual judgment of pressure values ​​and visual deformation. This completely solves the shortcomings of traditional equipment, such as single detection dimensions, one-sided data, and inconsistency with actual chewing conditions, and significantly improves the scientificity and accuracy of pet food hardness mechanical testing.

[0015] 2. This pet food hardness testing and sorting device features a modular, quick-release design, significantly improving equipment versatility and ease of maintenance. This device adopts a modular combination structure of detachable transfer trays and mold blocks. The transfer trays can be quickly disassembled and positioned via the lower locking handle, and the mold blocks at each station can be independently plugged in and replaced. It can quickly change the corresponding contouring limiting mold according to different shapes, sizes, and types of pet food, and is suitable for limiting and fixing various pellets, meat strips, chew sticks, and freeze-dried foods. At the same time, the modular structure allows for individual replacement and cleaning of damaged parts without disassembling the entire equipment, greatly reducing equipment maintenance costs and downtime for cleaning, and is suitable for multi-category batch testing and production needs.

[0016] 3. This pet food hardness testing and sorting device integrates a follow-up self-cleaning anti-residue structure, ensuring stable and reliable long-term testing accuracy. This device innovatively integrates a spring-loaded telescopic brush self-cleaning mechanism at the bottom of the limiting push plate. It achieves synchronous slag removal by relying on the original pushing stroke of the equipment, without the need for additional drive power and cleaning station. While completing the material pushing and sorting, it can automatically scrape off the food scraps and powder impurities remaining in the mold block trough and guide trough, pushing the residual debris to the edge of the tray for discharge. It completely solves the problems of easy slag accumulation, material jamming, material placement deviation, and unstable detection benchmark of traditional trough-type limiting structures, ensuring the consistency of the benchmark for each mechanical test and eliminating detection errors caused by residue accumulation.

[0017] 4. This pet food hardness detection and sorting device features a high degree of automation with multi-station linkage, providing continuous, efficient, and precise detection and sorting. This device uses a cam divider in conjunction with a servo motor to achieve intermittent, precise indexing and transfer at ten stations. It ensures stable start-stop operation and zero station positioning deviation, guaranteeing accurate alignment of each extrusion and inspection station. Multiple independent electric push rods are arranged circumferentially around the decagonal main loading cylinder, enabling automatic material alignment, trough lifting, precise pushing, and automatic sorting of qualified and unqualified materials within a single unit. Simultaneously, the inspection pressure head employs a plug-in spring-locking quick-change structure, allowing for convenient switching between four inspection components and secure positioning. The entire machine achieves fully automated, interconnected operation, including material loading limit, intermittent transfer, multi-dimensional mechanical inspection, visual judgment, automatic sorting, and station self-cleaning. Its operational efficiency far exceeds that of traditional single-station inspection equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the invention and form part of the specification. They are used in conjunction with embodiments of the invention to explain the invention and do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to the present invention from the right side view. Figure 3 This is a front sectional view of a pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to the present invention; Figure 4 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 3 A three-dimensional image; Figure 5 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 4 A structural diagram from the right side; Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of the sample transport component of a pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to the present invention; Figure 7 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 6 A structural diagram from the right side; Figure 8 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 7 A structural diagram from below; Figure 9 This is an exploded view of the hardness detection component of a pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to the present invention; Figure 10 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 9 A structural diagram from the right side; Figure 11 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 9A structural diagram from a rear view; Figure 12 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 2 Enlarged view of point A in the middle; Figure 13 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 3 Enlarged view of point B in the middle; Figure 14 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 4 Enlarged view of point C in the middle; Figure 15 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 4 Enlarged view of point D in the middle; Figure 16 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 6 Enlarged view at point E in the middle; Figure 17 This invention relates to a pet food hardness detection and sorting device. Figure 7 Enlarged view of point F in the middle.

[0019] In the diagram: 1. Support box; 2. Sample transfer assembly; 201. Transfer spindle; 202. Base; 203. Cam divider; 204. Servo motor; 205. Docking block; 206. Transfer tray; 207. Lower locking hole; 208. Lock groove; 209. Lower locking handle; 210. Mold mounting slot; 211. Fixture block; 212. Guide groove; 213. Main mounting cylinder; 214. Electric push rod; 215. 216. Limiting push plate; 217. Unloading plate; 218. Lower detection camera; 219. Auxiliary loading slot; 220. Support spring; 221. Long brush; 222. Inner baffle; 223. Annular collection trough; 224. Guide plate one; 225. Guide plate two; 226. Partition plate; 3. Side mounting frame; 4. Hardness testing assembly; 401. Lifting cylinder; 402. Rotary cylinder; 403. Adjusting mounting platform; 404. Positioning 405. Slot 1; 406. Positioning Block 1; 407. Pressure Sensor 1; 408. Detection Plate; 409. Outer Baffle 1; 410. Upper-level Detection Camera 1; 411. Positioning Slot 2; 412. Positioning Block 2; 413. Pressure Sensor 2; 414. Detection Column; 415. Outer Baffle 2; 416. Upper-level Detection Camera 2; 417. Positioning Slot 3; 418. Pressure Sensor Device 3; 419. Detection cone; 420. Outer baffle 3; 421. Upper detection camera 3; 422. Positioning slot 4; 423. Positioning block 4; 424. Pressure sensor 4; 425. Detection toothed plate; 426. Outer baffle 4; 427. Upper detection camera 4; 428. Upper lock hole; 429. Alignment insertion hole; 430. Upper lock rod; 431. Pull plate; 432. Positioning spring; 5. Control panel. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0021] Example: Figures 1-17 As shown, the present invention discloses a pet food hardness testing and sorting device, comprising: a sample transfer component 2 for continuously transporting test samples is fixedly installed at the center of the top of a support box 1; a side mounting bracket 3 is fixedly connected to the upper surface of the right end of the support box 1; a hardness testing component 4 for continuously testing pet food samples is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the side mounting bracket 3; and a control panel 5 for operating the sample transfer component 2 and the hardness testing component 4 is fixedly installed on the right side of the upper end of the side mounting bracket 3 via a mounting plate.

[0022] The sample transfer assembly 2 includes a transfer spindle 201. The upper end of the transfer spindle 201 is fixedly engaged with a mounting base at the top of the support housing 1 via a bearing with a built-in protrusion. A base 202 is fixedly installed at the center of the bottom surface of the inner cavity of the support housing 1. A cam divider 203 is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the base 202 by multiple bolts. A servo motor 204 is fixedly installed on the right side of the front end of the cam divider 203, and the output shaft at the left end of the servo motor 204 is fixedly connected to the rotating shaft on the right side of the front end of the cam divider 203 via a coupling. The rotating shaft at the top rear of the divider 203 is fixedly connected to the lower end of the transfer main shaft 201 by multiple bolts. A regular hexagonal docking block 205 is fixedly connected to the center of the upper end face of the transfer main shaft 201. The outer surface of the docking block 205 is movably engaged with the transfer tray 206. A lower locking hole 207 is opened on the front of the docking block 205. A locking groove 208 corresponding to the position of the lower locking hole 207 is opened at the center of the front of the transfer tray 206. The inner cavity of the locking groove 208 and the lower locking hole 207 are both threadedly connected to a lower locking handle 209.

[0023] The system utilizes a servo motor 204, a cam divider 203, a transfer spindle 201, and a transfer tray 206 for transmission. First, the servo motor 204 drives the cam divider 203 to achieve a precise 36-degree intermittent rotation in a single cycle. Then, it drives the transfer tray 206 to index and rotate at fixed points, ensuring precise alignment and orderly timing of each station for detection, feeding, and loading. This enables automated continuous processing of the entire machine, resulting in stable operation and accurate positioning.

[0024] Several mold slots 210 are provided on the outer periphery of the upper surface of the transfer tray 206. A mold block 211 is movably engaged in the inner cavity of each mold slot 210. A guide groove 212 extending to the upper surface of the transfer tray 206 is provided at the middle of the upper surface of each mold block 211. A regular decagonal columnar main loading cylinder 213 is fixedly connected to the middle of the upper surface of the transfer tray 206. A rechargeable electric push rod 214 is fixedly installed on the inner wall of each side of the lower end of the main loading cylinder 213. A limiting push plate 215 is fixedly connected to the output end of each electric push rod 214 by multiple bolts. A discharge plate 216 that is engaged in the guide groove 212 is fixedly connected to the lower surface of each limiting push plate 215 near the end of the main loading cylinder 213. Two lower detection cameras 217 with opposing observation heads are embedded on the two sides of each limiting push plate 215 away from the main loading cylinder 213.

[0025] The modular limiting structure is formed by the transfer tray 206, mold slot 210, mold block 211, and lower lock handle 209. First, the mold block 211 can be quickly inserted, removed, and replaced independently, which can be adapted to limit and fix pet food of different shapes and sizes, making the equipment more widely applicable. Second, the modular and split structure makes it easy to disassemble, clean, repair, and replace the equipment individually, reducing the difficulty of equipment maintenance and the cost of use. The assembly and positioning are firm, and the limiting stability is strong.

[0026] The system utilizes the cooperation between the main loading cylinder 213, electric push rod 214, limit push plate 215, and unloading plate 216. First, a circumferential array of regular decagons is arranged, and the intermittent indexing motion of the cam divider 203 is used to achieve multi-station cyclic operation. Then, relying on the telescopic drive of the electric push rod 214, the unloading plate 216 slides along the guide groove 212 to complete the material unloading and lifting. The limit push plate 215 completes the lateral pushing. This allows for staggered and timed discharge of qualified and unqualified materials, avoiding material jamming and interference with station actions, and ensuring continuous and stable sorting operation of the equipment.

[0027] Each limiting push plate 215 has an auxiliary loading groove 218 on its lower surface near the main loading cylinder 213. Several support springs 219 are fixedly connected to the upper surface of each auxiliary loading groove 218 near the main loading cylinder 213. A long brush 220 is fixedly connected to the lower end of each support spring 219. An inner baffle 221 is fixedly connected to the upper surface of each long brush 220 away from the main loading cylinder 213.

[0028] The combination of the limiting push plate 215, auxiliary loading groove 218, support spring 219, and long brush 220 enables pure mechanical linkage self-cleaning through the pushing stroke. The support spring 219 controls the extension, retraction, concealment, and pop-out of the long brush 220. Simultaneously with the material pushing, residual debris and impurities inside the mold block 211 and guide groove 212 are automatically scraped away. No additional cleaning drive components are required, effectively preventing material placement deviation caused by residue accumulation, continuously stabilizing the hardness detection benchmark, and improving the long-term detection accuracy of the equipment.

[0029] An annular collection trough 222 is fixedly installed on the outer side of the transfer tray 206 and on the upper surface of the support box 1 by two bolts. A guide plate 223 arranged in a downward slope is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the right end of the annular collection trough 222. A guide plate 224 arranged in a downward slope is fixedly connected to the back of the upper end of the guide plate 223. A partition plate 225 is vertically fixedly connected to the inner wall of the left end of the annular collection trough 222.

[0030] The system employs a combined diversion structure consisting of an annular collection trough 222, guide plate 1 223, guide plate 224, and partition plate 225. First, the annular collection trough 222 is fixed to the outside of the transfer tray 206. Guide plate 1 223 and guide plate 224 are sequentially arranged on the inner wall of the right end, while partition plate 225 is vertically installed on the inner wall of the left end. This allows for independent guidance and sliding of qualified and unqualified materials, effectively preventing mixing of superior and inferior materials, ensuring smooth material flow, and resulting in a reasonable and orderly sorting layout. The hardness testing component 4 includes a lifting cylinder 401. The bottom of the lifting cylinder 401 is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the side mounting bracket 3. The piston rod at the lower end of the lifting cylinder 401 is fixedly installed with a rotary cylinder 402 via a mounting plate. The output shaft at the left end of the rotary cylinder 402 is fixedly installed with an adjusting platform 403 via a mounting plate. A positioning slot 404 is provided at the middle of the lower surface of the adjusting platform 403. A positioning block 405 is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot 404. A pressure sensor 406 is fixedly installed at the lower end of the positioning block 405 via multiple bolts. A detection plate 407 is fixedly installed at the lower end of the pressure sensor 406 via multiple bolts. An outer baffle 408 is fixedly connected to the lower surface of the right end of the detection plate 407. An upper detection camera 409 is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle 408.

[0031] The system is equipped with a lifting cylinder 401, a rotating cylinder 402, an adjusting platform 403, and four sets of detachable testing components. First, the rotating cylinder 402 rotates to switch the workstation, which can quickly switch between four testing modes: testing pressure plate 407, testing pressure column 413, testing cone 419, and testing toothed plate 425. This simulates the chewing, puncture, and shearing stress states of pets in multiple dimensions. Then, it is equipped with a plug-in quick-change positioning structure, which is convenient to disassemble and reliably positioned, greatly improving the comprehensiveness and universal adaptability of the equipment.

[0032] A positioning slot 410 is provided in the middle of the front of the adjustment platform 403. A positioning block 411 is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot 410. A pressure sensor 412 is fixedly installed at the front end of the positioning block 411 by multiple bolts. A detection pressure column 413 is fixedly installed at the front end of the pressure sensor 412 by multiple bolts. An outer baffle 414 is fixedly connected to the front of the right end of the detection pressure column 413. An upper detection camera 415 is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle 414.

[0033] A positioning slot 3 416 is provided in the middle of the upper surface of the adjustment platform 403. A positioning block 3 417 is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot 3 416. A pressure sensor 3 418 is fixedly installed on the top of the positioning block 3 417 by multiple bolts. A detection cone 419 is fixedly installed on the top of the pressure sensor 3 418 by multiple bolts. An outer baffle 3 420 is fixedly connected to the upper surface of the right end of the detection cone 419. An upper detection camera 3 421 is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle 3 420.

[0034] A positioning slot 422 is provided in the middle of the rear surface of the adjustment platform 403. A positioning block 423 is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot 422. A pressure sensor 424 is fixedly installed at the rear end of the positioning block 423 by multiple bolts. A detection toothed plate 425 is fixedly installed at the rear end of the pressure sensor 424 by multiple bolts. An outer baffle 426 is fixedly connected to the rear surface of the right end of the detection toothed plate 425. An upper detection camera 427 is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle 426.

[0035] The system utilizes a combination of pressure sensors (406, 412, 418, 424, upper and lower detection cameras) to collect extrusion mechanics data in real time, using a unified pressure threshold as the detection standard. Then, multiple cameras simultaneously record material deformation and breakage status, forming a dual basis for judgment based on pressure parameters and visual images. This process retains all detection data, reducing subjective human error and significantly improving the accuracy of product hardness determination and sorting. The left side of each of the positioning blocks 405, 411, 417, and 423 is provided with an upper locking hole 428. The left side of the adjusting platform 403 is provided with four alignment holes 429 that communicate with the inner cavity of each upper locking hole 428. Each alignment hole 429 and the inner cavity of the upper locking hole 428 are connected to an upper locking rod 430. The left end of each upper locking rod 430 is fixedly connected to a pull plate 431. A positioning spring 432 is fixedly connected to the center of the pull plate 431 and the side opposite to the adjusting platform 403.

[0036] During operation, the entire machine is controlled by the control panel 5, which coordinates the running sequence and action logic of each component. The servo motor 204, in conjunction with the cam divider 203, forms a stable intermittent conveying power, driving the transfer spindle 201 and the transfer tray 206 to complete indexing rotation at a fixed angle of 36 degrees per cycle. This allows the ten workstations to rotate sequentially and ensures continuous cyclic operation of the entire equipment. The operator places pet food of different specifications one by one into the mold block 211 for positioning. The material is centered and positioned by the contour groove to prevent deviation during the testing process. The transfer tray 206 rotates intermittently, conveying the placed material sequentially to the testing area directly below the hardness testing component 4 for testing. During the hardness testing phase, the lifting cylinder 401 controls the overall testing unit to descend and approach the material. The rotating cylinder 402 can adjust the rotation angle of the mounting platform 403 as needed, flexibly switching between four different testing conditions. Pressure sensors 1 (406), 2 (412), 3 (418), and 4 (424) collect pressure values ​​in real time during the extrusion process, using a constant pressure threshold as a unified testing standard. The upper-level detection cameras 1 (409), 2 (415), 3 (421), and 4 (427) work together with the lower-level detection camera 217 to simultaneously capture and record the deformation, dents, cracks, and damage of the pet food during the extrusion, puncture, point pressing, and shearing processes from multiple angles, including above and side. The entire process retains image data and pressure data. Through comprehensive data comparison and analysis, the system accurately determines whether the current material is a qualified or unqualified product. After the inspection is completed, the equipment uses a staggered flow pushing logic to complete the automatic sorting operation. Materials deemed qualified are directly driven forward by the corresponding electric push rod 214 at the current inspection station, which in turn drives the limit push plate 215 forward. The limit push plate 215 drives the unloading plate 216 to move synchronously, first lifting the bottom of the material to remove it from the trough, and then smoothly pushing the material outward. Qualified materials fall directly into the right side area of ​​the annular collection trough 222, and are guided smoothly down the plate surface by the arc-shaped spiral of the guide plate 223, eventually converging at the bottom front area of ​​the annular collection trough 222 for unified collection. Materials deemed unqualified are not directly pushed to the current station but follow the transfer tray 206 to complete a 36-degree station switching flow. The material is moved to the next available station to avoid the pushing action interfering with the ongoing new inspection process, ensuring that inspection and sorting do not interfere with each other. When the unqualified material flows to the designated sorting position, the electric push rod 214 of the corresponding station is activated, which drives the limit push plate 215 and the unloading plate 216 to work together to push the unqualified material out smoothly. The unqualified material falls into the left area of ​​the annular collection trough 222 and is guided and conveyed by the guide plate 224 to collect in the bottom area of ​​the rear side of the annular collection trough 222. The partition plate 225 is vertically set in the middle of the annular collection trough 222, which can stably separate the front and rear material flows, completely preventing qualified products and unqualified products from mixing with each other, and realizing independent partitioned collection of the two material flows. The equipment performs a self-cleaning operation of the tank simultaneously with each pushing action. The end of the guide groove 212 near the main loading cylinder 213 extends directly below the horizontal plate of the limiting push plate 215. Normally, two-thirds of the length of the unloading plate 216 away from the main loading cylinder 213 is fitted and covered inside the guide groove 212. The end of the unloading plate 216 near the main loading cylinder 213 is additionally extended to completely cover the inner port of the guide groove 212. The width of the extended section is consistent with the upper and lower diameters of the guide groove 212. When the unloading plate 216 has fully moved to the slag-cleaning position, it can completely seal and block the port of the guide groove 212, forming a continuous and complete planar structure inside the mold block 211, without any defects. The auxiliary loading trough 218 is seamless; the support spring 219 inside can automatically extend and retract according to the working state. During the pushing process, the support spring 219 releases its elasticity, which pops the long-bristled brush 220 downward, so that the bristles completely fit the wall and bottom of the mold loading block 211. Relying on the closed and flat surface of the trough, the long-bristled brush 220 moves synchronously with the limiting push plate 215, which can completely scrape off the food scraps, powder and fine impurities remaining in the trough, and push all the scraps outward to avoid the accumulation of residue. When the push plate returns to its original position, the bristles are squeezed and automatically retract and are hidden inside the auxiliary loading trough 218, without interfering with the placement of materials, station transfer and normal pushing action. The entire equipment relies on a ten-station circular layout, using the precise intermittent rotation of the cam divider 203 to achieve orderly switching between stations. It simulates different stress modes through four detection structures to complete multi-dimensional hardness testing, and improves detection accuracy by combining pressure data and visual image dual judgment standards. The cooperative structure of guide plate 1 223, guide plate 224 and partition plate 225 enables staggered pushing, partitioned material guiding and independent collection of qualified and unqualified materials. With the linkage of the extended closed unloading plate 216 and the elastic long brush 220, the detection station can automatically clean slag. All mechanical actions and detection processes are orderly connected under the unified scheduling of the electrical control system, continuously and cyclically completing the complete automated operation process of material limiting, intermittent transfer, multi-mode hardness testing, visual monitoring, intelligent sorting and tank self-cleaning.

[0037] Finally, it should be noted that the above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A pet food hardness detection and sorting device, characterized in that, include: A sample transfer assembly (2) for continuously transporting test samples is fixedly installed at the center of the top of the support box (1). A side mounting bracket (3) is fixedly connected to the upper surface of the right end of the support box (1). A hardness testing assembly (4) for continuously testing pet food samples is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the side mounting bracket (3). A control panel (5) for operating the transfer assembly (2) and the hardness testing assembly (4) is fixedly installed on the right side of the upper end of the side mounting bracket (3) through a mounting plate.

2. The pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sample transfer assembly (2) includes a transfer spindle (201). The upper end of the transfer spindle (201) is fixedly engaged with the mounting base at the top of the support box (1) via a bearing with a built-in protrusion. A base (202) is fixedly installed at the center of the bottom surface of the inner cavity of the support box (1). A cam divider (203) is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the base (202) by multiple bolts. A servo motor (204) is fixedly installed on the right side of the front end of the cam divider (203). The output shaft at the left end of the servo motor (204) is fixedly connected to the rotating shaft at the right side of the front end of the cam divider (203) via a coupling. The rotating shaft at the top rear of the divider (203) is fixedly connected to the lower end of the transfer main shaft (201) by multiple bolts. A regular hexagonal docking block (205) is fixedly connected to the center of the upper end face of the transfer main shaft (201). A transfer tray (206) is movably engaged on the outer surface of the docking block (205). A lower locking hole (207) is opened on the front of the docking block (205). A locking groove (208) corresponding to the position of the lower locking hole (207) is opened at the center of the front of the transfer tray (206). A lower locking handle (209) is threadedly connected to the inner cavity of both the locking groove (208) and the locking hole (207).

3. The pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 2, characterized in that, A plurality of mold slots (210) are provided on the outer periphery of the upper surface of the transfer tray (206). Each mold slot (210) has a mold block (211) movably engaged in its inner cavity. Each mold block (211) has a guide groove (212) extending to the upper surface of the transfer tray (206) at the middle position of its upper surface. A decagonal columnar main loading cylinder (213) is fixedly connected to the middle position of the upper surface of the transfer tray (206). The inner wall of each side of the lower end of the main loading cylinder (213) Each device is fixedly installed with a rechargeable electric push rod (214). The output end of each electric push rod (214) is fixedly connected to a limiting push plate (215) by multiple bolts. The lower surface of each limiting push plate (215) near the main loading cylinder (213) is fixedly connected to a discharge plate (216) that is inserted into the guide groove (212). Two lower detection cameras (217) with observation heads are embedded in the two sides of the limiting push plate (215) away from the main loading cylinder (213).

4. The pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Each of the limiting push plates (215) has an auxiliary mounting groove (218) on its lower surface near the main mounting cylinder (213). Each of the auxiliary mounting grooves (218) has several support springs (219) fixedly connected to its upper surface near the main mounting cylinder (213). Each of the support springs (219) has a long brush (220) fixedly connected to its lower end. Each of the long brushes (220) has an inner baffle (221) fixedly connected to its upper surface away from the main mounting cylinder (213).

5. The pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 4, characterized in that, An annular collection trough (222) is fixedly installed on the outer side of the transfer tray (206) and on the upper surface of the support box (1) by two bolts. A guide plate (223) arranged in a downward slope is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the right end of the annular collection trough (222). A guide plate (224) arranged in a downward slope is fixedly connected to the back of the upper end of the guide plate (223). A partition plate (225) is fixedly connected vertically to the inner wall of the left end of the annular collection trough (222).

6. The pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The hardness testing component (4) includes a lifting cylinder (401). The bottom of the lifting cylinder (401) is fixedly installed on the upper surface of the side mounting bracket (3). The piston rod at the lower end of the lifting cylinder (401) is fixedly installed with a rotary cylinder (402) via a mounting plate. The output shaft at the left end of the rotary cylinder (402) is fixedly installed with an adjusting platform (403) via a mounting plate. A positioning slot (404) is provided in the middle of the lower surface of the adjusting platform (403). A positioning block (405) is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the slot (404). A pressure sensor (406) is fixedly installed at the lower end of the positioning block (405) by multiple bolts. A detection plate (407) is fixedly installed at the lower end of the pressure sensor (406) by multiple bolts. An outer baffle (408) is fixedly connected to the lower surface of the right end of the detection plate (407). An upper detection camera (409) is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle (408).

7. The pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 6, characterized in that, A positioning slot 2 (410) is provided in the middle of the front of the adjustment platform (403). A positioning block 2 (411) is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot 2 (410). A pressure sensor 2 (412) is fixedly installed at the front end of the positioning block 2 (411) by multiple bolts. A detection pressure column (413) is fixedly installed at the front end of the pressure sensor 2 (412) by multiple bolts. An outer baffle 2 (414) is fixedly connected to the front of the right end of the detection pressure column (413). An upper detection camera 2 (415) is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle 2 (414).

8. The pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 7, characterized in that, A positioning slot three (416) is provided in the middle of the upper surface of the adjustment platform (403). A positioning block three (417) is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot three (416). A pressure sensor three (418) is fixedly installed on the top of the positioning block three (417) by multiple bolts. A detection cone (419) is fixedly installed on the top of the pressure sensor three (418) by multiple bolts. An outer baffle three (420) is fixedly connected to the upper surface of the right end of the detection cone (419). An upper detection camera three (421) is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle three (420).

9. A pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 8, characterized in that, A positioning slot four (422) is provided at the middle of the rear surface of the adjustment platform (403). A positioning block four (423) is movably inserted into the inner cavity of the positioning slot four (422). A pressure sensor four (424) is fixedly installed at the rear end of the positioning block four (423) by multiple bolts. A detection tooth plate (425) is fixedly installed at the rear end of the pressure sensor four (424) by multiple bolts. An outer baffle four (426) is fixedly connected to the rear surface of the right end of the detection tooth plate (425). An upper detection camera four (427) is fixedly installed inside the outer baffle four (426).

10. A pet food hardness detection and sorting device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The left side of each of the positioning blocks 1 (405), 2 (411), 3 (417), and 4 (423) is provided with an upper locking hole (428). The left side of the adjustment platform (403) is provided with four alignment holes (429) that communicate with the inner cavity of each upper locking hole (428). Each alignment hole (429) and the inner cavity of the upper locking hole (428) are connected to an upper locking rod (430). The left end of each upper locking rod (430) is fixedly connected to a pull plate (431). The center position of the pull plate (431) and the opposite side of the adjustment platform (403) is fixedly connected to a positioning spring (432).

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