Multi-stack tobacco controlled atmosphere aging method

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for multi-stack tobacco aging under controlled atmosphere, which includes transforming a warehouse into one or more airtight spaces to achieve the enclosure of multiple stacks of tobacco; connecting multiple positions of the tobacco stacks stored in multiple airtight spaces to a distributed gas pipeline network; using the distributed gas pipeline network to perform low-oxygen controlled atmosphere insecticidal operation on the tobacco stacks in the multiple airtight spaces; introducing oxygen-rich gas into the multiple airtight spaces by using the distributed gas pipeline network to achieve oxygen-rich accelerated aging of tobacco, wherein the oxygen content in the airtight space is 23% - 32%; and predicting the aging quality of tobacco according to the tobacco aging curve corresponding to the aging and controlled atmosphere parameters in the airtight space. By using the tobacco aging method in the present application, the aging speed can be accelerated and the aging efficiency can be improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of tobacco aging, and particularly to a multi-stack tobacco controlled atmosphere aging method. Background Art

[0002] Tobacco aging is to scientifically process and manage tobacco leaves by technical means to promote the physiological and biochemical changes of tobacco leaves, so as to achieve the purpose of changing and improving the quality of tobacco leaves. Tobacco aging is divided into natural aging and artificial aging. Natural aging can better improve the quality of tobacco leaves, so at present, the raw materials of each enterprise generally adopt natural aging.

[0003] During the aging process, the temperature and humidity of the aging environment are also suitable for the reproduction of molds, resulting in the agglomeration and blockage of tobacco leaves and finally losing their use value. In addition, the traditional natural aging cycle is about 3 years, and the long-term tobacco inventory needs to occupy a large amount of funds, bringing huge financial pressure to tobacco factories. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a method to accelerate tobacco aging. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of the technical problems existing in the prior art, the present invention provides a multi-stack tobacco controlled atmosphere aging method, including: transforming a warehouse into one or more airtight spaces to achieve the enclosure of multiple stacks of tobacco; connecting multiple positions where the tobacco stacks are stored in the multiple airtight spaces to a distributed gas pipeline network; using the distributed gas pipeline network to perform low-oxygen controlled atmosphere insecticidal operation on the tobacco stacks in the multiple airtight spaces; using the distributed gas pipeline network to introduce oxygen-rich gas into the multiple airtight spaces to achieve oxygen-rich acceleration of tobacco aging, wherein the oxygen content in the airtight space is 23%-32%; and predicting the aging quality of tobacco according to the tobacco aging curve corresponding to the aging controlled atmosphere parameters in the airtight space.

[0005] The method as described above further includes: controlling the temperature in the airtight space at 20°C - 35°C.

[0006] The method as described above further includes: controlling the relative humidity in the airtight space at 40% - 65%.

[0007] The method as described above further includes: controlling the oxygen content in the airtight space at 25% - 30%; controlling the temperature in the airtight space at 20 - 30°C; controlling the relative humidity in the airtight space at 55% - 65%.

[0008] The method as described above, wherein the aging period of the tobacco is 12 - 30 months.

[0009] The method as described above, wherein the types of the tobacco stacks in different airtight spaces are different.

[0010] The method as described above, wherein the oxygen content and / or humidity in different said airtight spaces are different.

[0011] The method as described above, wherein the time for different tobacco stacks in said airtight spaces to reach the peak of aging is different.

[0012] The method as described above, further comprising: filtering impurities in the gas entering said airtight space, wherein the impurities include dust pollutants, aerogels, mold spores and insect eggs.

[0013] The method as described above, further comprising: regularly discharging the miscellaneous gas in said airtight space to improve the cleanliness of said airtight space.

[0014] The method as described above, further comprising: the oxygen content for insecticidal in said airtight space is reduced to 0.2% - 2%; or, the oxygen content for insecticidal in said airtight space is reduced to and maintained below 0.5%.

[0015] The method as described above, wherein one or more of the oxygen content, humidity, and temperature in multiple airtight spaces are monitored by an integrated gas conditioning monitoring station connected to the distributed pipe network.

[0016] When the aging gas conditioning parameters in the airtight tent are controlled within the range suitable for tobacco aging, the aging cycle of tobacco can be controlled within 18 - 30 months. Compared with the traditional aging cycle, applying the solution of the present application can shorten the aging time by at least 6 months, greatly improving the aging efficiency. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Next, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be further described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0018] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of a tobacco maintenance system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 2 is a schematic structural diagram of an integrated monitoring system of a tobacco maintenance system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0020] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a tobacco gas conditioning maintenance system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 4 is a flowchart of a tobacco gas conditioning maintenance method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 5 is a flowchart of a method for tobacco aging gas conditioning according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 6A method for dynamic tobacco aging under controlled atmosphere according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figures 7A - 7C A line graph showing the relationship between the aging quality and aging time of tobacco according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0025] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the tobacco aging curve according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed implementation manners

[0026] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are some, but not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments of the present invention without creative efforts shall fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0027] In the following detailed description, reference can be made to the various specification drawings that form a part of this application and illustrate specific embodiments of the application. In the drawings, like reference numerals generally describe substantially similar components in different figures. The various specific embodiments of the application have been described in sufficient detail below to enable those of ordinary skill in the relevant art and technology to implement the technical solutions of the application. It should be understood that other embodiments can also be utilized or structural, logical, or electrical changes can be made to the embodiments of the application.

[0028] The tobacco controlled atmosphere storage system in this application mainly includes two major parts: a controlled atmosphere device and an airtight space. The controlled atmosphere device adjusts parameters such as temperature, humidity, and oxygen content in the airtight space. The airtight space includes an airtight warehouse and a flexible airtight tent. The airtight warehouse can be transformed into multiple airtight warehouses in a large warehouse, which has advantages such as a large space. The flexible airtight tent is not restricted by location and can be set up anywhere, and it is easy to observe the tobacco situation inside the flexible airtight tent. In one embodiment, the air change rate of the airtight space is less than 0.1 d -1 ; preferably, the air change rate is less than 0.05 d -1 .

[0029] Figure 1FIG. 0 is a schematic structural diagram of a tobacco maintenance system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the tobacco maintenance system of this embodiment is applied to a tobacco maintenance warehouse 101. The tobacco maintenance system of this embodiment includes: a plurality of flexible airtight tents 102, a distributed pipe network 104, a comprehensive detection and air conditioning station 106, and a gas source 103. The plurality of flexible airtight tents 102 are used to place stacked tobacco stacks. The gas source 103 is used to provide high-purity nitrogen. The distributed pipe network 104 is connected to the gas source 103. The comprehensive detection and air conditioning station 106 is used to detect the air conditioning parameters in the plurality of flexible airtight tents 102 and can adjust the air conditioning parameters in the flexible airtight tents 102 through the distributed pipe network 104. In some embodiments, the air conditioning parameters include oxygen content, humidity, or other parameters.

[0030] The flexible airtight tent 102 includes one or more layers of flexible airtight layers. Optionally, the flexible airtight tent 102 may include an airtight door. The airtight door is provided on the flexible airtight layer of the flexible airtight tent. The air change rate of the flexible airtight tent of the present invention is less than 0.05 d -1 , preferably the air change rate is less than 0.01 d -1 (percentage of the volume of gas exchanged in the airtight enclosure in one day marked by carbon dioxide or oxygen in the total volume). The flexible airtight layer includes, but is not limited to, airtight film materials such as PVC film and airtight cloth. The flexible airtight layer can be opaque or semi-transparent. To facilitate observing the internal situation of the tent, in some embodiments, transparent PVC film and other materials can also be selected. In the case of selecting a non-transparent flexible airtight layer, an airtight observation window can be added or a transparent airtight door can be used. In some embodiments, the airtight door is a zipper door, a magnetic door, an adhesive door, etc., such as a soft door with a zipper, which plays a locking role after being tightened. In some embodiments, an exhaust port is provided on the flexible airtight layer at the upper part of the flexible airtight tent, and an air inlet is provided at the bottom of its side. As understood by those skilled in the art, the air inlets and exhaust holes of the flexible airtight tent 102 can include many other different setting methods.

[0031] In some embodiments, the flexible airtight tent can be fabricated on-site. First, the film cover is made according to the size of the stack position. For example, a film cover is pre-made using a high-barrier film. In the curing warehouse, a flexible bottom lining (such as a cardboard box) is first laid on the tobacco stack position, and the pre-made film cover is laid on the flexible bottom lining. Then, the tobacco is placed and stacked to form a tobacco stack position. The number of tobacco stack positions can be set as needed, generally 100 - 200 cases, approximately 20 - 40 tons; for elevated storage positions, the tobacco can be stacked up to several thousand cases or even tens of thousands of cases; in this case, it is better to use a high-airtight warehouse. After the tobacco stack positions are stacked, the flexible airtight tent is fabricated on-site using sealing equipment such as cutting, heat pressing, and end sealing. In some embodiments, there are pre-set exhaust ports and intake ports on the surface of the film cover. In some embodiments, the exhaust port can also be installed on the flexible airtight layer on the upper part of the flexible airtight tent on-site, and the intake port can be installed at the bottom of its side. Further, the exhaust port and the intake port can be connected to the exhaust pipeline and the intake pipeline of the distributed pipe network near this stack position.

[0032] In some embodiments, a temperature sensor can be provided inside the flexible airtight tent, which sends the temperature inside the flexible airtight tent to the comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station in a wired or wireless manner, and then sends it to the on-site operation platform and / or the remote service platform via the comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station.

[0033] In some embodiments, a humidity sensor can be provided inside the flexible airtight tent, which includes a probe that can extend into the interior of the tobacco stack position to detect the humidity inside the tobacco stack position. The tobacco humidity sensor sends the measured tobacco humidity to the comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station in a wired or wireless manner, and then sends it to the on-site operation platform and / or the remote service platform via the comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station.

[0034] A distributed pipe network 104 is arranged in the curing warehouse 101. In one embodiment, the distributed pipe network is arranged above the curing warehouse 101, with a height higher than the height of the tobacco stack position. It will neither affect the tobacco stack position nor the entry and exit of vehicles into and out of the curing warehouse. In another embodiment, the distributed pipe network is pre-buried under the ground of the curing warehouse 101. Near the positions of each predetermined tobacco stack position in the curing warehouse 101, the distributed pipe network 104 includes reserved intake pipelines and exhaust pipelines.

[0035] In one embodiment, the distributed pipe network 104 provided above the curing storage 101 includes a rigid gas supply pipeline 1041, which extends above the positions of each predetermined tobacco stack in the curing storage 101. One end of the rigid gas supply pipeline 1041 is connected to the gas source 103. Gas supply branches are respectively included near each predetermined tobacco stack position of the rigid gas supply pipeline 1041. The end of the gas supply branch includes a gas supply end. The gas supply end can be connected to the air inlet of the flexible airtight tent through a flexible pipeline. In some embodiments, manual valves are provided on each gas supply branch of the rigid gas supply pipeline 1041 for manually controlling the gas flow rate into the plurality of flexible airtight tents. Since the sizes of the tobacco stacks may be different and the required gas flow rates are also different; while the gas supply branches are the same. The manual valves enable the user to adjust the gas flow rate into the flexible airtight tent according to the size of the stack. This is beneficial for precisely controlling the gas conditioning parameters in the flexible airtight tent and can also effectively save energy. In some embodiments, the distributed pipe network includes a plurality of parallel rigid gas supply pipelines 1041 for respectively providing nitrogen with different purities or humidities (for example, simultaneously providing nitrogen with purities of 90%, 99%, and 99.99%). The plurality of parallel rigid gas supply pipelines can be respectively connected to the gas supply branches through solenoid valves, so as to provide nitrogen with different purities to the flexible airtight tent. Providing nitrogen with different purities is beneficial for rapidly reducing the oxygen in the flexible airtight tent by using the stepwise oxygen reduction method. In some embodiments, the distributed pipe network includes a plurality of humidifying devices. The humidifying devices are connected to the rigid gas supply pipeline through an intake pipeline and an outlet pipeline and humidify the gas flowing through them (for example, through a water tank). When humidified gas is required, the solenoid valves on the intake pipeline and the outlet pipeline are opened, so that a part of the gas in the rigid gas supply pipeline flows through the humidifying device, thereby obtaining gas with a certain humidity. Providing gas with different humidities is beneficial for independently regulating the humidity in the airtight tent, and the plurality of parallel rigid gas supply pipelines greatly improve the flexibility of gas conditioning for different flexible airtight tents.

[0036] In some embodiments, the distributed pipe network 104 includes a rigid exhaust pipeline 1042. The rigid gas supply pipeline 1041 and the rigid exhaust pipeline 1042 are arranged substantially in parallel. The rigid exhaust pipeline 1042 also extends above the positions of each predetermined tobacco stack in the curing storage 101. The end of the rigid exhaust pipeline 1042 is connected to the outside. Exhaust branches are respectively included near each predetermined tobacco stack position of the rigid exhaust pipeline 1042. One end of the exhaust branch is connected to the comprehensive monitoring gas conditioning station 106, and the comprehensive monitoring gas conditioning station is then connected to the rigid exhaust pipeline 1042. The other end of the exhaust branch includes an exhaust end. The exhaust end can be connected to the air outlet of the flexible airtight tent through a flexible pipeline. Of course, the exhaust branch can also be directly connected to the rigid exhaust pipeline 1042 and then connected to the comprehensive monitoring gas conditioning station 106 through a detection pipeline. In some embodiments, the detection pipeline can adopt a small-diameter pipeline.

[0037] In some embodiments, the rigid exhaust gas pipeline 1042 is not necessary. The flexible pipeline and the exhaust gas branch between the air outlet end of the flexible airtight tent 102 and the integrated monitoring and controlled atmosphere station 106 are necessary.

[0038] The flexible pipelines between the air inlet end of the air supply branch and the air inlet of the flexible airtight tent and between the air outlet end of the exhaust gas branch and the air outlet of the flexible airtight tent have a certain margin. In this way, even when the positions of the air outlet and the air inlet of the flexible airtight tent are slightly different for different stacks, the airtight connection between the flexible airtight tent and the air supply branch and the exhaust gas branch can be ensured.

[0039] In some embodiments, a solenoid valve is provided at the connection between the rigid air supply pipeline 1041 and the gas source 103. This solenoid valve can be controlled through an on-site operation platform or a remote service platform. When the gas source 103 starts to supply gas, opening this solenoid valve can supply high-purity (purity greater than 99.99%) nitrogen gas to one or more flexible airtight tents through the rigid air supply pipeline.

[0040] In some embodiments, the air supply branch includes a solenoid valve that can control the gas passage of the corresponding flexible airtight tent. Similarly, the exhaust gas branch includes a solenoid valve that can control the gas passage between the corresponding flexible airtight tent and the corresponding integrated monitoring and controlled atmosphere station. As shown in the figure, the same integrated monitoring and controlled atmosphere station 106 can correspond to multiple airtight tents (generally 6 - 20). The integrated monitoring and controlled atmosphere station 106 controls the solenoid valves on the air supply branch and the exhaust gas branch of the corresponding multiple flexible airtight tents, thereby controlling the air supply to the corresponding flexible airtight tents and the monitoring of the controlled atmosphere parameters. The introduction of the integrated monitoring and controlled atmosphere station 106 can greatly reduce the construction cost of the tobacco controlled atmosphere curing system and also provide a basis for the low-cost precise control of tobacco controlled atmosphere curing.

[0041] In some embodiments, the exhaust port and the air outlet of the flexible airtight tent are connected to the flexible pipeline through quick-connect plugs.

[0042] In some embodiments, the gas source 103 includes one or more nitrogen generation devices, which are configured to provide one or more purities of nitrogen gas and provide pressure to supply the nitrogen gas to the distributed pipeline. In some embodiments, the multiple nitrogen generation devices of the gas source 103 can be distributed at different positions in the warehouse and can be controlled to start or stop independently.

[0043] In some embodiments, the gas source 103 includes a mobile gas source, such as a vehicle-mounted nitrogen generation device or a nitrogen generation vehicle. The mobile gas source can be moved to the required position in the warehouse and connected to the distributed pipe network to provide the required high-purity nitrogen gas. The mobile gas source is very beneficial to reducing the input cost of the tobacco curing system of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2 It is a schematic structural diagram of an integrated monitoring system of a tobacco maintenance system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station 106 includes a processor 201, a controlled atmosphere module 202, a detection module 203, a communication module 204, and an input / output module 205. The controlled atmosphere module 202 is electrically connected to the processor 201 and is configured to receive instructions from the processor 201 and control a plurality of solenoid valves on the air supply branch and the air outlet branch of the corresponding flexible airtight tent on the distributed pipeline connected thereto, so as to form one or more intake channels from the gas source 103 to the flexible airtight tent 102 of one or more tobacco storage bays and one or more exhaust channels from the one or more flexible airtight tents 102 to the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station 106, thereby adjusting and / or maintaining the oxygen content and / or humidity in the one or more flexible airtight tents 102.

[0045] The detection module 203 is electrically connected to the processor 201 and is configured to communicate with one or more exhaust channels, receive the gas from the one or more flexible airtight tents 102, and detect the controlled atmosphere parameters such as the oxygen content and / or humidity of the gas.

[0046] The communication module 204 sends the controlled atmosphere parameters such as the oxygen content and / or humidity from the detection module 203 to a remote service platform or a on-site operation platform. On the other hand, the communication module 204 receives control instructions from the remote service platform or the on-site operation platform and sends the control instructions to the processor 201. The processor 201 controls the controlled atmosphere module 202 to adjust the controlled atmosphere parameters in the specified flexible airtight tent.

[0047] The input / output module 205 includes a display for displaying the controlled atmosphere parameters such as the oxygen content and / or humidity from the detection module 203, so as to facilitate the user to directly understand the controlled atmosphere parameters in the one or more flexible airtight tents managed by the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station 106. On the other hand, the input / output module 205 includes an input device (such as a keyboard or a touch screen, etc.) for receiving instructions from the user and sending the user's instructions to the processor 201.

[0048] In some embodiments, the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station 106 is generally arranged on the distributed pipeline. It is convenient to control the plurality of solenoid valves on the air supply branch and the air outlet branch nearby, and it can also avoid the damage that may be caused by operating on the tobacco storage bays and other ground operations. For example, the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station 106 is arranged above the maintenance warehouse.

[0049] However, the fact that the comprehensive monitoring gas conditioning station 106 is set far from the ground may bring a problem. It is inconvenient for users to view and use the input and output module 205. In some embodiments, the comprehensive monitoring gas conditioning station 106 includes a first shell and a second shell, and the processor 201, the gas conditioning module 202, the detection module 203 and the communication module 204 are arranged in the first shell; the input and output module 205 is arranged in the second shell; the first shell and the second shell are connected by wire. In this way, the first shell can be arranged on a distributed pipe network, such as above a maintenance warehouse; the second shell can be arranged in a convenient place, such as a wall or a pillar close to the ground. Similarly, the implementation method also includes: the detection module 203 is arranged in the first shell, and the processor 201, the gas conditioning module 202, the communication module 204, and the input and output module 205 are arranged in the second shell. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that there may be other discrete methods. These methods are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0050] In some embodiments, the processor 201 is configured to receive instructions from a remote service platform, an on-site operation platform or the input and output module 205 and control the opening and / or closing of one or more air inlet channels and / or exhaust channels for one or more flexible airtight tents through the atmosphere control module 102.

[0051] The gas conditioning module 202 controls the electromagnetic valves on the corresponding air supply branches of the multiple flexible airtight tents to form an air intake channel for one or more flexible airtight tents. In some embodiments, if the gas conditioning module 202 performs gas conditioning on multiple flexible airtight tents at the same time, the gas conditioning module 202 can form an exhaust channel between one of the multiple flexible airtight tents and the detection module 203 in a time-sharing manner. That is, the detection module 203 will first detect the gas conditioning parameters in one of the flexible airtight tents, and then turn to detect the gas conditioning parameters in another flexible airtight tent, until all the flexible airtight tents are traversed, and then return to the first flexible airtight tent. In this way, even if the gas conditioning parameters in each flexible airtight tent are different, the same comprehensive monitoring gas conditioning station can also achieve its own independent gas conditioning control. In other embodiments, if the gas conditioning parameters of multiple flexible airtight tents are the same or close, the gas conditioning module 202 can form an exhaust channel between all multiple flexible airtight tents and the detection module 203, until the gas conditioning parameters meet the standard, the gas conditioning operation is completed. That is to say, the detection module 203 will simultaneously detect the gas conditioning parameters after the gas mixture in all flexible airtight tents. In this way, the simultaneous adjustment of the air conditioning parameters in multiple flexible airtight tents can be achieved more efficiently.

[0052] In some embodiments, reference Figure 2, the detection module 203 is connected to the exhaust passage. The detection module 203 includes an air extraction port, an internal pipeline 2011, a fan 2012, an oxygen sensor 2013, and a humidity sensor 2014. The air extraction port is connected to the intake port of the internal air path 2011. The outlet of the internal air path 2011 is provided with branches respectively connected to the oxygen sensor 2013 and the humidity sensor 2014, independently detecting the oxygen content and humidity of the gas from inside the flexible airtight tent at the same time. After the gas passes through the oxygen sensor 2013 and the humidity sensor 2014, it passes through the internal air path 2011 and then through the fan 2012 and is connected to the outside. In the detection module 203, the independent detection of oxygen content and humidity does not interfere with each other, and more accurate detection results can be obtained.

[0053] In some embodiments, in order to avoid the influence of the existing gas in the flexible channel and the outlet pipeline on the accuracy of the detection result, it is necessary to calculate the time when the gas from inside the flexible airtight tent enters the detection module. According to the rotation speed and air volume of the fan 2012, the volume of gas extracted by the detection module through the air extraction port per second is known, and then according to the length of the flexible channel and the length of the outlet branch, the total volume of gas in the two is calculated. Thus, the time when the gas from inside the flexible airtight tent enters the detection module can be calculated. Further, the lengths of the flexible channels and the outlet branches of different flexible airtight tents are different, and the total volume of gas in the two is also different. Therefore, the gas entry times are also different. In addition, in different modes, such as the adjustment of the gas conditioning parameters of single and multiple flexible airtight tents, the gas entry times are also different. The detection module can pre-store the gas entry times of different flexible airtight tents and different modes into the detection module, so as to provide more accurate detection results.

[0054] In some embodiments, the detection module 203 also receives the temperature parameters from the temperature sensors in the corresponding multiple flexible airtight tents. The communication module 204 also sends the temperature parameters to the on-site operation platform or the remote service platform.

[0055] In some embodiments, the detection module 203 further includes a gas sensor data processing unit. The gas sensor data processing unit stores a database of different aging quality standard samples. Specifically, a certain type of tobacco with different aging processes is used as a standard sample, and the volatile gas generated by the standard sample is introduced into the gas sensing data processing unit. Tobacco leaves with excellent, good, medium, and poor aging qualities of a certain type of tobacco can be selected as standard samples; then, the signals collected by the gas sensor are recorded and the corresponding relationship with the aging quality is established. In some embodiments, the gas sensor data processing unit includes a gas filtration module with gradually decreasing pore sizes, which can separate gas molecules of different sizes based on the molecular sieve effect gradient to achieve multi-component gas detection in a complex atmosphere.

[0056] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of a tobacco controlled atmosphere storage and maintenance system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, multiple comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere stations are the data collection points in the system. Each comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station collects its own controlled atmosphere data from multiple flexible airtight tents under its management, and sends the controlled atmosphere data to the on-site operation platform and / or the remote service platform respectively.

[0057] In some embodiments, the on-site operation platform includes a processor, a memory, a communication device, an input / output device, and a display, and is used to monitor and adjust the controlled atmosphere parameters in each flexible airtight tent on-site in the storage warehouse. As understood, when there are multiple storage warehouses, the on-site operation platform corresponds to the comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere stations in multiple storage warehouses. The on-site operation platform obtains and aggregates the controlled atmosphere parameter status in all flexible airtight tents from each comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station through the communication device, and can display it to the on-site operators through the display. The on-site staff can also input instructions through the on-site operation platform to adjust the controlled atmosphere parameters in one or more flexible airtight tents. The on-site operation platform forwards the input instructions to the designated comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station. The comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station controls the solenoid valves on the air supply branch and the exhaust branch to open; the on-site operation platform controls the solenoid valves on the distributed pipe network and the gas source to open, so as to form an air supply channel from the gas source to the designated one or more flexible airtight tents and an exhaust channel from the designated one or more flexible airtight tents to the corresponding comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station. The flexible airtight tent is supplied with gas through the air supply channel, and the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tent are monitored through the comprehensive monitoring and controlled atmosphere station, so as to realize the adjustment of the controlled atmosphere parameters.

[0058] In some embodiments, the remote service platform includes a communication device and one or more servers, which are used to monitor and adjust the controlled atmosphere parameters in each flexible airtight tent on-site in the conservation warehouse. The remote service platform communicates with each comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station through the communication device to obtain and summarize the status of the controlled atmosphere parameters in all flexible airtight tents. In some embodiments, the management personnel can log in to the remote service platform, view the controlled atmosphere parameters in each flexible airtight tent through the display interface, and input commands for remote control. In some embodiments, the remote service platform includes a client. The management personnel can view the controlled atmosphere parameters in each flexible airtight tent by logging in to the client. The management personnel can also use the client to input commands, and then adjust the controlled atmosphere parameters in one or more flexible airtight tents through the remote service platform. The remote service platform forwards the input commands to the designated comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station. The comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station controls the opening of the solenoid valves on the gas supply branch and the exhaust branch. The remote service platform or its client can also communicate with the on-site operation platform to control the opening of the solenoid valves on the distributed pipe network and the gas source, so as to form a gas supply channel from the gas source to the designated one or more flexible airtight tents and an exhaust channel from the designated one or more flexible airtight tents to the corresponding comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station. The gas is supplied to the flexible airtight tent through the gas supply channel, and the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tent are monitored through the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station, so as to realize the adjustment of the controlled atmosphere parameters.

[0059] In some other embodiments, the client of the remote service platform can be used as the software for on-site operation, while the on-site operation platform adopts a simplified design. The on-site operation platform does not communicate with each comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station, but obtains commands from the remote service platform in the distance to realize the control of the solenoid valves on the gas source and the distributed pipe network. For example, the management personnel log in to the client of the remote service platform in the conservation warehouse to view the controlled atmosphere parameters of multiple flexible airtight tents. According to the need, commands for adjusting the controlled atmosphere parameters in multiple flexible airtight tents are issued on the client. After receiving the commands, the remote service platform sends the commands to the on-site operation platform and the designated comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station respectively. After receiving the commands, the on-site operation platform controls the gas source to start working and opens the solenoid valves on the distributed pipe network and the gas source. The designated comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station controls the opening of the solenoid valves on the gas supply branch and the exhaust branch of the designated flexible airtight tent, and starts the controlled atmosphere adjustment for the designated flexible airtight tent. At the same time, the detection module of the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station starts to detect the controlled atmosphere parameters from the designated flexible airtight tent. The comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station sends the detected controlled atmosphere parameters to the remote service platform. The remote service platform sends the detected controlled atmosphere parameters to the on-site client. Thus, the management personnel can view the changes of the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tent in real time until the controlled atmosphere parameters in the designated flexible airtight tent reach the desired parameter values. The remote service platform sends commands to the on-site operation platform and the designated comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station to end the controlled atmosphere operation.

[0060] In some embodiments, the client of the remote monitoring platform of the tobacco controlled atmosphere curing system of the present invention can be installed on one or more of a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a smart phone, and a tablet computer. It can be used to receive, either remotely or on-site, the controlled atmosphere parameters such as the oxygen content, humidity, and / or temperature of the gas in the flexible airtight tent reported by each comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station, and to achieve the query, analysis, and display of the oxygen content, humidity, and / or temperature of the gas in the flexible airtight tent; it can also accept the control of a predetermined program or a user instruction to achieve the adjustment of the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tent.

[0061] In some embodiments, the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station can receive the controlled atmosphere parameter configurations of one or more flexible airtight tents from the on-site operation platform or the remote service platform. The detection module of the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station periodically or irregularly detects the gas from the corresponding multiple flexible airtight tents; the processor determines whether the detected controlled atmosphere parameters conform to the controlled atmosphere parameter configurations. If it is found that the parameters exceed the range determined by the controlled atmosphere parameter configurations, the comprehensive detection controlled atmosphere station will send an alarm to the on-site operation platform and / or the remote service platform. The on-site operation platform or the remote service platform makes a response and initiates a controlled atmosphere parameter adjustment operation.

[0062] In some other embodiments, the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station can also be the initiator of the controlled atmosphere parameter adjustment operation. The detection module of the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station periodically or irregularly detects the gas from one or more flexible airtight tents; the processor determines whether the detected controlled atmosphere parameters conform to the controlled atmosphere parameter configurations. If it is found that the parameters exceed the range determined by the controlled atmosphere parameter configurations, the comprehensive detection controlled atmosphere station actively initiates a controlled atmosphere parameter adjustment operation for the flexible airtight tent. In some embodiments, the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station communicates with the on-site operation platform. The on-site operation platform controls the solenoid valves on the gas source and the distributed pipeline network, and the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station controls the solenoid valves on the air supply branch and the exhaust branch of the flexible airtight tent to form an air intake channel and an exhaust channel to implement the controlled atmosphere parameter adjustment. In some other embodiments, the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station directly controls the solenoid valves on the gas source and the distributed pipeline network, and can also actively implement the controlled atmosphere parameter adjustment operation. The advantage of such a method is that it can minimize the components participating in the decision-making and ensure that the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tent are always within the range of the controlled atmosphere parameter configurations.

[0063] Figure 4It is a flowchart of a tobacco controlled atmosphere storage method according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the tobacco controlled atmosphere storage method includes the following steps: In step S410, a flexible airtight tent is fabricated on-site to seal the tobacco stack, and the flexible airtight tent is connected to a distributed pipe network. As the sealing method of fabricating the flexible airtight tent on-site in the embodiment, the impact on the operation of the tobacco stack is relatively small. The distributed pipe networks are all arranged at positions that do not affect the stack operation, and will not affect the efficiency of tobacco warehousing. Since both the distributed pipe network and the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station are pre-set, multiple flexible airtight tents can be supported simultaneously. This makes the overall tobacco controlled atmosphere storage method of this embodiment very efficient.

[0064] In step S420, perform oxygen reduction for insect killing / mildew removal on the tobacco stack in the flexible airtight tent. In response to an insect killing / mildew removal instruction from the on-site operation platform or the remote service platform, multiple gas channels are formed from the gas source through the distributed pipe network to multiple flexible airtight tents; oxygen reduction is performed on the multiple flexible airtight tents. In some embodiments, the oxygen content in the flexible airtight tent is reduced to 1.0%, 0.5%, or 0.2% to achieve the purpose of insect killing and mildew removal. In some embodiments, a mildew remover, such as chlorine dioxide, can also be released into the tobacco stack in this step to better achieve the effect of removing mildew.

[0065] In step S430, maintain the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tent and maintain a time sufficient to achieve insect killing / mildew removal. After the tobacco stack is sealed by the flexible airtight tent, it is isolated from the outside world; filter plates are provided on both the air supply branch and the air outlet branch, which can filter out insect eggs and mildew spores. Therefore, the existing insect eggs and mildew outside will no longer enter the flexible airtight tent. Each year, only the oxygen in the airtight tent needs to be replaced and the oxygen content is controlled at a low level for a period of time, and then the effects of insect killing, insect prevention, mildew prevention, and bacteria inhibition can be achieved. This can not only greatly reduce the workload but also improve the quality of tobacco.

[0066] In some embodiments, the insect killing / mildew removal operation in step S430 uses a lower oxygen content compared to the prior art to achieve a better insect killing / mildew removal effect. In some embodiments, the oxygen content for insect killing / mildew removal is less than 1.0%, and the time for insect killing / mildew removal is 5 - 15 days (for example, when the oxygen content is 1.0%, the time for insect killing / mildew removal is 15 days). Preferably, in some embodiments, the oxygen content for insect killing / mildew removal is 0.5%, and the time for insect killing / mildew removal is 10 days. More preferably, in some embodiments, the oxygen content for insect killing / mildew removal is 0.2%, and the time for insect killing / mildew removal is 5 days.

[0067] In some embodiments, during the insect killing / mildew removal process in step S430, a mildew remover, such as chlorine dioxide, can be applied into the multiple flexible tents to assist in enhancing the mildew removal effect.

[0068] During the entire step S430, the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station regularly detects the oxygen content in multiple flexible airtight tents. If the oxygen content in a flexible airtight tent is higher than the set maximum oxygen content for insect killing / mildew removal, the controlled atmosphere operation for that flexible airtight tent is initiated until the oxygen content in the flexible airtight tent reaches the set oxygen content for insect killing / mildew removal.

[0069] In some embodiments, after the insect killing / mildew removal operation, the controlled atmosphere operation for each flexible airtight tent is initiated to increase the oxygen content and control the humidity to reach the set aging controlled atmosphere parameters to accelerate the aging of tobacco.

[0070] Since the tobacco aging time is relatively long, in some embodiments, with the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station as the core device, the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station is used to regularly detect the oxygen content and humidity in the corresponding flexible airtight tents. In response to the oxygen content and / or humidity in one or more flexible airtight tents exceeding a predetermined range; the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station sends a prompt to the on-site operation platform or the remote service platform to initiate the controlled atmosphere operation for that or those flexible airtight tents. Specifically, the on-site operation platform and the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station cooperate to start the gas source and open the solenoid valves on the distributed pipeline and the air supply and outlet branch pipelines to form multiple gas channels from the gas source through the distributed pipe network to that or those flexible airtight tents. Introduce the controlled high-purity nitrogen into the multiple flexible airtight tents and discharge the gas in the multiple flexible airtight tents through the distributed pipe network, and part of the gas discharged from the multiple flexible airtight tents passes through the detection module of the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station. During the entire aging cycle, maintain or adjust the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tents. In response to the user's instruction to adjust the controlled atmosphere parameters or the oxygen content and / or humidity in the multiple flexible airtight tents exceeding a predetermined range; the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station forms multiple gas channels from the gas source through the distributed pipe network to the multiple flexible airtight tents, a gas channel from one of the multiple flexible airtight tents to the detection module, and multiple gas channels from the multiple flexible airtight tents to the detection module in a time-sharing manner by controlling the gas control module to open the corresponding solenoid valves; introduce the controlled high-purity nitrogen into the multiple flexible airtight tents and discharge the gas in the multiple flexible airtight tents through the distributed pipe network, and part of the gas discharged from the multiple flexible airtight tents passes through the detection module of the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station to detect the oxygen content and humidity of the gas discharged from the multiple flexible airtight tents. When the detection module detects that the controlled atmosphere parameters in the flexible airtight tent meet the user's instruction or reach a predetermined range, the integrated monitoring controlled atmosphere station closes the corresponding solenoid valve by controlling the gas control module.

[0071] Figure 5It is a flowchart of a method for tobacco aging under controlled atmosphere according to an embodiment of the present invention. In step S510, the warehouse is transformed into one or more airtight spaces to achieve the sealing and protection of multiple stacks of tobacco. The airtight spaces include airtight warehouses and flexible airtight tents. When the warehouse is transformed into multiple airtight spaces, different types of tobacco are placed in the multiple airtight spaces, which is suitable for the simultaneous aging of different types of tobacco.

[0072] When the airtight space is an airtight tent, the airtight tent has the advantages of being convenient to install and move, and is suitable for the simultaneous aging of different types of tobacco. First, a part of the airtight tent is arranged at multiple positions where the tobacco stacks will be stored. At least a part of the airtight tent includes the bottom surface of the airtight tent, and the material of the bottom surface can be a flexible airtight material, such as PVC film, airtight cloth, etc.

[0073] Multiple tobacco stacks are placed on a part of the airtight tent at multiple positions for storing tobacco stacks. The tobacco stacks are placed on the bottom surface of the airtight tent. The tobacco stacks can be placed on a support frame, and the support frames are fixed at intervals to ensure smooth ventilation between the tobaccos and facilitate the passage of staff.

[0074] Multiple airtight tents are formed at multiple positions for storing tobacco stacks, and multiple tobacco stacks are enclosed in the multiple airtight tents. After the tobacco stacks are placed on the bottom surface, the top surface and the surrounding vertical surfaces of the airtight tent are installed on the ground, and the tobacco stacks are stored airtightly in the airtight tent. An airtight door can be provided on one of the vertical surfaces of the airtight tent, and the size of the airtight door can be determined according to the volume of the airtight tent.

[0075] In step S520, the multiple positions for storing tobacco stacks in multiple airtight spaces are connected to a distributed gas pipeline network. The distributed gas pipeline network is respectively connected to multiple airtight spaces and can adjust the gas parameters in the airtight spaces. The gas parameters include but are not limited to humidity and oxygen content. The distributed gas pipeline network can separately adjust the gas parameters in a certain airtight space according to the type of tobacco, so that all types of tobacco are in the best gas parameters, improving the aging speed and quality of tobacco.

[0076] In step S530, the tobacco stacks in multiple airtight spaces are subjected to insecticidal operations using the distributed gas pipeline network. A variety of molds will adhere to the surface of tobacco leaves, and molds are prone to grow and reproduce in a suitable environment, causing the tobacco leaves to mildew and deteriorate. During the aging process of tobacco, in the face of high-humidity environmental conditions and suitable temperatures for mold reproduction, if not discovered in time, it will cause some tobacco to mildew and become unusable. Therefore, performing insecticidal operations on tobacco stacks is a necessary and important step for aging in an oxygen-rich environment.

[0077] The insecticidal operation on tobacco stacks in multiple airtight spaces includes: introducing nitrogen into the airtight spaces and putting an appropriate amount of deoxidizer under an appropriate low-oxygen state. In one embodiment, the usage amount of the deoxidizer is determined according to the volume of the airtight space. By combining the use of deoxidizer and nitrogen injection to reduce oxygen, the oxygen content in the airtight space can be rapidly reduced. Further, the oxygen content can be reduced to 0.2%-2%; preferably, the insecticidal oxygen content in the airtight space is reduced to and maintained below 0.5%, which can completely kill the eggs and molds in the tobacco leaves. Further, through the oxygen reduction method of combining deoxidizer and nitrogen injection, 2 / 3 of the deoxidizer can be saved, greatly reducing the cost of tobacco insecticidal.

[0078] In one embodiment, impurities in the gas entering the airtight space are filtered, where the impurities include dust pollutants, aerogels, mold spores and eggs. To avoid introducing new eggs and molds during the insecticidal period, it is necessary to ensure that clean gas is filled. This application can use a multi-stage composite pressure filtration technology with a filtration level up to 0.01μm, which can efficiently remove impurities in the gas.

[0079] In step S540, oxygen-rich gas is introduced into multiple airtight spaces through a distributed gas pipeline network to achieve oxygen-rich accelerated aging. The types of tobacco stacks in different airtight spaces can be different. Tobacco is divided into multiple types according to the origin, year, part of the tobacco leaf, grade of the tobacco leaf, and use of the tobacco leaf. For different types of tobacco leaves, the appropriate aging gas conditioning parameters are not the same. The aging gas conditioning parameters include but are not limited to temperature, relative humidity, and oxygen content. For example, a tobacco stack from Yunnan is placed in airtight space A, and a tobacco stack from Henan is placed in airtight space B. Since the climate in the south is humid and the north is dry, the tobacco stack from Yunnan has a higher water content than that from Henan, and the appropriate relative humidity for aging will also be relatively high. Therefore, the oxygen content and / or humidity in different airtight spaces are different. Further, the time for the tobacco stacks in different airtight spaces to reach the aging peak is different. As can be seen from the above, the time for the tobacco stack to reach the aging peak is related to the type of tobacco and the aging gas conditioning parameters. Appropriate aging gas conditioning parameters can accelerate the aging speed of tobacco.

[0080] In one embodiment, the oxygen content in the airtight space is controlled between 23% and 32%; the temperature in the airtight space is controlled between 20°C and 35°C; the relative humidity in the airtight space is controlled between 40% and 65%. Preferably, the oxygen content in the airtight space is controlled between 25% and 30%; the temperature in the airtight space is controlled between 20°C and 30°C; the relative humidity in the airtight space is controlled between 55% and 65%. When the aging gas conditioning parameters in the airtight space are controlled within the range suitable for tobacco aging, the aging cycle of tobacco can be controlled between 12 and 30 months. Compared with the traditional aging cycle, applying the solution of the present application can shorten the aging time by at least 6 months, greatly improving the aging efficiency.

[0081] The present application uses experimental analysis to study the influence of aging gas conditioning parameters such as high temperature and oxygen enrichment on the aging speed of tobacco leaves, establishes the corresponding relationship between aging gas conditioning parameters and the aging speed of different tobacco leaves, and finally obtains the optimal aging gas conditioning parameters for different origins, different years, and different uses, realizing the best matching of aging gas conditioning parameters and tobacco leaf quality, and ultimately achieving the purpose of shortening the tobacco aging cycle. Using the tobacco gas conditioning and maintenance system of the present application, parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, and oxygen content can be automatically detected and precisely regulated, accurately regulating parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, and oxygen content in the airtight space, meeting the suitable aging gas conditioning parameters for different types of tobacco, and ensuring the quality of tobacco aging.

[0082] In one embodiment, the green and miscellaneous gas in the airtight space is regularly discharged to improve the cleanliness of the airtight space. The tobacco gas conditioning and maintenance system has a self-cleaning function, regularly removing the green and miscellaneous gas or other harmful gases in the airtight space, and ensuring the aging quality of the tobacco in the airtight space. Among them, the green and miscellaneous gas in the airtight space can be discharged every 1 - 4 weeks.

[0083] In step S550, according to the tobacco aging curve corresponding to the aging gas conditioning parameters in the airtight space, the aging quality of tobacco is predicted. Through experimental analysis, the present application obtains the tobacco aging curve of the change in aging quality and aging time under different aging gas conditioning parameters. According to the current aging time and the tobacco aging curve corresponding to the aging gas conditioning parameters, the aging quality of tobacco can be predicted. Further, an integrated gas conditioning monitoring station connected to the distributed pipe network is used to monitor one or more of the oxygen content, humidity, and temperature in multiple airtight spaces, ensuring the stability of the oxygen content, humidity, and temperature in the airtight space.

[0084] The aging quality of tobacco can be determined according to physical and chemical indicators and manual inspection. The aging quality of tobacco can be divided into low, medium, high, and excellent according to the aging quality of tobacco. When the aging quality of tobacco is high, it is considered that the tobacco aging is completed and meets the storage-out standard. When the quality of tobacco is excellent, it is considered to reach the best aging quality.

[0085] In view of the problem of deviation in the predicted tobacco demand, the present application proposes a method for dynamic tobacco controlled atmosphere aging. According to the latest production plan, the controlled atmosphere aging parameters are adjusted in a timely manner, so that the quantity of tobacco after aging corresponds to the quantity in the tobacco production plan, ensuring the normal implementation of the tobacco production plan.

[0086] Figure 6 It is a method for dynamic tobacco controlled atmosphere aging according to an embodiment of the present invention. In step S610, the quantity of tobacco at the peak of aging is obtained. The quantity of tobacco at the peak of aging means that the tobacco stack reaches the best aging quality, and at this time the tobacco quality is excellent. When the tobacco quality is excellent, the aroma of the tobacco leaves reaches the best state, the green and miscellaneous odors are reduced, the irritation is alleviated, and the taste is more comfortable. After the tobacco quality reaches excellent, the tobacco quality will be maintained for a period of time. If the controlled atmosphere aging parameters do not change, the tobacco will continue to age, and parameters such as aroma will deteriorate. Therefore, the tobacco at the peak of aging should be used as soon as possible to produce commercial cigarettes; or the controlled atmosphere aging parameters of the tobacco at the peak of aging are changed to keep the tobacco quality excellent all the time.

[0087] In one embodiment, when the tobacco reaches the peak of aging, the controlled atmosphere aging rate of the tobacco can be slowed down by adjusting the controlled atmosphere parameters in the airtight space, so that it can be maintained at the peak of aging for a long time to ensure the best quality of the tobacco. The peak-holding parameters include the peak-holding oxygen content, the peak-holding temperature, and the peak-holding relative humidity. Among them, the peak-holding oxygen content is less than or equal to 10%, and the peak-holding temperature is preferably less than 25°C; the peak-holding relative humidity is 55%-65%. When the oxygen content is reduced to less than 6%, preferably 2%-5%, and the peak-holding temperature is within the range of 25°C, the activity of enzymes in the tobacco leaves can be reduced, and the processes of decomposition, transformation, and synthesis of chemical components in the tobacco leaves can be inhibited, keeping the chemical components at the peak of aging unchanged or changing slowly.

[0088] The present application inhibits the aging process of tobacco by reducing oxygen and lowering temperature to achieve the purpose of maintaining the best tobacco quality. In addition, reducing the oxygen content in the airtight tent can inhibit the growth of insects and molds on the tobacco, ensuring that the tobacco does not get moldy. Reducing the oxygen content in the tobacco can effectively slow down the excessive darkening of the tobacco leaf color and keep it in good chroma. Using the tobacco controlled atmosphere maintenance system, the oxygen content in the airtight tent can be quickly reduced to less than 6%. In addition, the airtight tent has good airtightness, ensuring the long-term stability of the oxygen content in the airtight tent.

[0089] In one embodiment, the storage period of the tobacco at the peak of aging under the peak-holding parameters is 0-12 months. Storing the tobacco at the peak of aging under the peak-holding parameters can inhibit the aging process of the tobacco, but if the storage time is too long, the aging quality of the tobacco will be reduced. Moreover, storing the tobacco in the peak-holding parameters for a long time occupies too much capital, increasing the financial pressure on the tobacco factory.

[0090] In step S620, obtain the planned production quantity of tobacco for a period of time in the future. The planned tobacco quantity includes the types of commercial tobacco planned to be produced, the production time, and the production quantity. Among them, commercial tobacco is made by mixing various tobaccos in proportion. For different types of commercial tobacco, the corresponding types of tobacco are different, and the mixing ratios are also different. The planned production quantity of tobacco for a period of time in the future is formulated based on past production experience. However, due to market changes, the planned production of tobacco will also be adjusted accordingly to meet the latest market demand in the future. The planned production quantity of tobacco for a period of time in the future can be updated at fixed intervals. The fixed interval can be 1 - 4 weeks.

[0091] In step S630, determine the required time and required quantity of tobacco at the peak of aging for a period of time in the future based on the planned production quantity of tobacco for a period of time in the future and the quantity of tobacco at the peak of aging currently. When producing commercial tobacco, the tobacco at the peak of aging currently is preferably used, which can reduce the tobacco inventory and improve the capital turnover rate. When the quantity of tobacco at the peak of aging currently is insufficient to meet the planned production quantity of tobacco for a period of time in the future, determine the required time and required quantity of tobacco at the peak of aging based on the difference between the two.

[0092] In step S640, determine the aging gas - conditioning parameters based on the required time. The aging gas - conditioning parameters include at least the oxygen content. Different aging gas - conditioning parameters will result in different times for tobacco to reach the peak of aging. The aging gas - conditioning parameters include oxygen content, temperature, and relative humidity. The oxygen content is 23% - 30%; the temperature is 25 - 35°C; the relative humidity is 40% - 65%. Further, the aging gas - conditioning parameters are also determined according to the type of tobacco. Different types of tobacco will result in different times for tobacco to reach the peak of aging.

[0093] In one embodiment, determining the aging gas - conditioning parameters based on the required time includes: obtaining one or more aging curves of aging time varying with oxygen content; and determining the optimal aging gas - conditioning parameters based on the required time and one or more aging curves. Through experimental analysis, it is possible to summarize the aging curves of aging time varying with oxygen content under certain temperature and humidity conditions. According to the required time, the optimal aging gas - conditioning parameters can be determined from one or more aging curves. By adjusting the aging gas - conditioning parameters in the airtight tent, the tobacco in the airtight tent can just complete aging at the required time, neither causing excessive backlog of tobacco inventory nor affecting the demand for the planned production quantity of tobacco.

[0094] In one embodiment, when determining a plurality of aging controlled atmosphere parameters in response to a demand time and one or more aging curves: determining the similarity between the plurality of aging controlled atmosphere parameters and the controlled atmosphere parameters in the current airtight tent; and determining the aging controlled atmosphere parameter with the highest similarity to the controlled atmosphere parameters in the current airtight tent among the plurality of aging controlled atmosphere parameters as the optimal aging controlled atmosphere parameter. It is possible to determine a plurality of aging controlled atmosphere parameters on one or more aging curves for a demand time. By determining the similarity between the plurality of aging controlled atmosphere parameters and the controlled atmosphere parameters in the current airtight tent, the time for adjusting the controlled atmosphere parameters can be shortened and the work efficiency can be improved. For example, the demand time is 20 months. Aging curve 1 is an aging curve showing the change of aging time with the oxygen content concentration when the temperature is 30°C and the humidity is 60%. Aging curve 2 is an aging curve showing the change of aging time with the oxygen content concentration when the temperature is 30°C and the humidity is 65%. According to the demand time, the corresponding oxygen content is found to be 29% on aging curve 1 and 24% on aging curve 2. It can be seen that the aging controlled atmosphere parameter 1 is: oxygen content 29%, temperature 30°C, humidity 60%; the aging controlled atmosphere parameter 2 is: oxygen content 24%, temperature 30°C, humidity 65%. Given that the controlled atmosphere parameters in the current airtight tent are: oxygen content 21%, temperature 30°C, humidity 65%. By comparing the similarities among the aging controlled atmosphere parameter 1, the aging controlled atmosphere parameter 2, and the controlled atmosphere parameters in the current airtight tent, it is found that the aging controlled atmosphere parameter 2 is the closest to the controlled atmosphere parameters in the current airtight tent, so the controlled atmosphere parameters in the airtight tent are adjusted to the aging controlled atmosphere parameter 2.

[0095] In one embodiment, when the demand time is not within the change range of one or more aging curves: determining the closest aging time based on one or more aging curves and the demand time; and determining the optimal aging controlled atmosphere parameter according to the closest aging time. For example, if the change range of one or more aging curves is between 12 and 30 months, the aging controlled atmosphere parameter corresponding to the aging time of 18 months is determined as the closest aging time. This can ensure that the optimal aging controlled atmosphere parameter can be determined for any demand time.

[0096] In step S650, determine the number of airtight tents for which the aging controlled atmosphere parameters need to be set or adjusted according to the demand quantity. The demand quantity can be the weight, and the unit can be tons. The demand quantity can also be the number of tobacco boxes, and each tobacco box corresponds to a fixed weight of tobacco. For example, the demand quantity is 28 tons, and the weight of each tobacco stack in the airtight tent is 3 tons. Then, 10 tobacco stacks in the airtight tents need to be set or adjusted to meet the demand for planned tobacco production.

[0097] In step S660, the gas conditioning parameters in the airtight tent that need to set or adjust the aging gas conditioning parameters are set or adjusted to the determined aging gas conditioning parameters. The gas conditioning parameters of the corresponding number of airtight tents are set or adjusted to the determined aging gas conditioning parameters, so that the tobacco stacks in the corresponding number of airtight tents just complete the aging process at the required time, the tobacco reaches the aging peak, and the aging quality is excellent. In this way, it can not only meet the requirements of the tobacco production plan, but also avoid excessive inventory backlog.

[0098] This application designs a comparative experiment to study the relationship between different tobacco aging parameters and the aging quality of tobacco leaves.

[0099] (I) Experimental design:

[0100] Table 1: Design of experimental parameters for comparing the aging quality of tobacco under different oxygen contents and humidities

[0101]

[0102] By consulting the literature, the suitable temperature for tobacco aging is 20°C - 35°C. Therefore, the aging temperature in the experiment of this application is taken as 30°C.

[0103] (II) Experimental steps:

[0104] First, select the upper-middle high-grade cut tobacco of the same grade, variety, and batch as the experimental raw materials, and determine the initial values of the initial values through physical and chemical index detection and sensory evaluation;

[0105] Second, regulate the tobacco aging parameters of different test cut tobacco respectively according to the experimental design, and the parameter regulation error ≤ 1%;

[0106] Third, perform insecticidal operations on the test cut tobacco and then place it in multiple experimental containers;

[0107] Fourth, monitor the tobacco aging parameters in different experimental containers to ensure the stability of the tobacco aging parameters;

[0108] Fifth, take samples for testing every 3 months during the experiment until the end of the 30-month experiment;

[0109] Sixth, analyze and organize the experimental data and give a final report after the experiment ends.

[0110] (III) When the temperature is 30°C, the sampling test results within 30 months are as follows:

[0111] Table 2: Influence of different oxygen contents and different action times on the aging quality of tobacco (relative humidity 55%)

[0112]

[0113] Table 3: Effects of Different Oxygen Contents and Different Action Times on the Aging Quality of Tobacco (Relative Humidity 60%)

[0114]

[0115]

[0116] Table 4: Effects of Different Oxygen Contents and Different Action Times on the Aging Quality of Tobacco (Relative Humidity 65%)

[0117]

[0118] (IV) Experimental Analysis

[0119] Figures 7A - 7C is a broken line graph of the aging quality of tobacco and the aging time according to an embodiment of the present invention. Refer to Figure 7A , when the temperature in the tobacco aging parameters is 30°C and the relative humidity is 55%, under the conditions of oxygen contents of 21% and 23%, the aging quality of the tobacco sample is excellent at the earliest at 27 months. When the tobacco is at a temperature of 30°C, a relative humidity of 55%, and the oxygen content is between 21% and 30%, the excellent aging quality is not achieved within 30 months.

[0120] Refer to Figure 7B , when the temperature in the tobacco aging parameters is 30°C and the relative humidity is 60%, under the condition of an oxygen content of 30%, the aging quality of the tobacco is excellent at the earliest at 18 months; under the condition of an oxygen content of 28%, the aging quality of the tobacco sample is excellent at the earliest at 24 months; under the conditions of oxygen contents of 21%, 23%, and 25%, the aging quality of the tobacco sample is excellent at the earliest at 27 months.

[0121] Refer to Figure 7C , when the temperature in the tobacco aging parameters is 30°C and the relative humidity is 65%, under the conditions of oxygen contents of 25%, 28%, and 30%, the aging quality of the tobacco sample is excellent at the earliest at 18 months; under the conditions of oxygen contents of 28% and 30%, the aging quality of the tobacco sample is excellent at the earliest at 30 months.

[0122] In summary, among the tobacco aging parameters, when the temperature is 30°C, the oxygen content is 25%-30%, and the relative humidity is 60%-65%, the time for the tobacco aging quality to reach superior and excellent is the shortest. Preferably, among the tobacco aging parameters, when the temperature is 30°C, the oxygen content is 28%, and the relative humidity is 65%, the tobacco aging quality reaches superior as early as 18 months, and reaches excellent as early as 30 months. Placing the tobacco under suitable aging parameters, the aging cycle of the tobacco can be controlled within 12-30 months. Compared with the traditional aging method, using the solution of this application can shorten the aging cycle by at least 6 months, improving the aging efficiency of the tobacco.

[0123] Figure 8 It is a schematic diagram of the tobacco aging curve according to an embodiment of the present invention. Based on the experimental data in Tables 3 and 4, taking the time when the aging quality reaches superior with different oxygen content concentrations as the basis, Tables 5 and 6 are respectively obtained, and Curve 1 and Curve 2 are respectively obtained according to the data in Tables 5 and 6.

[0124] Table 5: Optimal aging time corresponding to different oxygen contents (relative humidity 60%)

[0125]

[0126] Table 6: Optimal aging time corresponding to different oxygen contents (relative humidity 65%)

[0127]

[0128] Reference Figure 8 , the horizontal axis of the aging curve is the oxygen content concentration, with the unit of %; the vertical axis is the aging duration, with the unit of month. Curve 1 corresponds to a temperature of 30°C and a relative humidity of 60%; Curve 2 corresponds to a temperature of 30°C and a relative humidity of 65%.

[0129] The formula corresponding to Curve 1 is y = -1.0714x 2 + 4.3286x + 23.4;

[0130] The formula corresponding to Curve 2 is: y = 0.4286x 2 - 4.3714x + 28.8;

[0131] Through Curve 1 and Curve 2, one or more aging controlled atmosphere parameters can be determined according to the aging time. In this way, the controlled atmosphere parameters in the airtight tent can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the aging time of the tobacco, which is of great significance for the production plan of the finished tobacco.

[0132] The above embodiments are only for illustrating the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Those of ordinary skill in the relevant technical field can still make various changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, all equivalent technical solutions should also fall within the scope of the disclosure of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for multi-stack tobacco controlled atmosphere aging, which is implemented based on a tobacco controlled atmosphere maintenance system. The tobacco controlled atmosphere maintenance system comprises: multiple airtight spaces, a distributed gas pipeline network, a comprehensive controlled atmosphere monitoring station and a gas source. The airtight spaces include airtight storages and flexible airtight tents; The comprehensive controlled atmosphere monitoring station includes: a processor, a controlled atmosphere module, a detection module, a communication module and an input / output module. The controlled atmosphere module is electrically connected to the processor and is configured to receive instructions from the processor and control a plurality of solenoid valves on the air supply branch and the air outlet branch corresponding to the flexible airtight tent on the distributed pipeline network connected thereto, so as to form one or more intake channels from the gas source to the flexible airtight tent of one or more tobacco storage stacks and one or more exhaust channels from one or more flexible airtight tents to the comprehensive monitoring controlled atmosphere station, thereby adjusting and / or maintaining the oxygen content and / or humidity in one or more flexible airtight tents; wherein, the detection module includes an air extraction port, an internal pipeline, a fan, an oxygen sensor and a humidity sensor. The air extraction port is connected to the intake port of the internal air path, and the outlet of the internal air path is branched and respectively connected to the oxygen sensor and the humidity sensor; when performing gas detection, the volume of gas passing through the air extraction port per second is calculated according to the rotation speed and air volume of the fan, and the total volume in the flexible channel and the air outlet branch is calculated according to the length of the flexible channel and the length of the air outlet branch, so as to calculate the time for the gas in the airtight space to enter the detection module. The detection module further includes a gas sensor data processing unit, which uses a certain kind of tobacco with different aging degrees as a standard sample, and passes the volatile gas generated by the standard sample into the gas sensor data processing unit, records the collected signals and establishes a corresponding relationship with the aging quality; The method includes: Transforming the warehouse into multiple airtight spaces to achieve the enclosure of multiple tobacco stacks; Connecting multiple positions of the tobacco storage stacks in multiple airtight spaces to the distributed gas pipeline network; Performing low-oxygen controlled atmosphere insecticidal operation on the tobacco stacks in the multiple airtight spaces by using the distributed gas pipeline network; Introducing oxygen-rich gas into the multiple airtight spaces by using the distributed gas pipeline network to achieve oxygen-rich acceleration aging of tobacco, wherein the oxygen content in the airtight space is 23%-32%; and Predicting the aging quality of tobacco according to the tobacco aging curve corresponding to the aging controlled atmosphere parameters in the airtight space; Wherein, by using the tobacco controlled atmosphere maintenance system, the controlled atmosphere parameters in multiple airtight spaces are respectively adjusted to the optimal aging controlled atmosphere parameters, and the aging period of tobacco is shortened to 12-30 months.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Controlling the temperature in the airtight space at 20°C - 35°C.

3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Controlling the relative humidity in the airtight space at 40%-65%.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising: Controlling the oxygen content in the airtight space at 25%-30%; controlling the temperature in the airtight space at 20-30°C; controlling the relative humidity in the airtight space at 55%-65%.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the types of the tobacco stacks in different airtight spaces are different.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the oxygen content and / or humidity in different airtight spaces are different.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the time for the tobacco stacks in different airtight spaces to reach the peak of aging is different.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: filtering impurities in the gas entering the airtight space, wherein the impurities include dust pollutants, aerogels, mold spores and insect eggs.

9. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: regularly discharging the miscellaneous gas in the airtight space to improve the cleanliness of the airtight space.

10. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: reducing the oxygen content for insect killing in the airtight space to 0.2% - 2%; or, reducing the oxygen content for insect killing in the airtight space to and maintaining it below 0.5%.

11. The method according to claim 1, wherein, monitoring one or more of the oxygen content, humidity and temperature in a plurality of airtight spaces by using an integrated controlled atmosphere monitoring station connected to the distributed gas pipeline network.

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