Unattended fresh food cold chain system based on central kitchen

Abstract

The invention provides an unattended fresh food cold chain system based on a central kitchen, and relates to the technical field of fresh product delivery, and the system comprises a central server which is used for receiving a user order; the centralized distribution center processing system comprises a central cold chain centralized distribution center warehouse and a central kitchen, and the central kitchen is used for producing semi-finished prefabricated dishes according to user orders; the central cold chain centralized distribution central warehouse is used for packaging different varieties of prefabricated dishes into modular sub-packaging boxes and respectively loading the modular sub-packaging boxes into central distribution refrigerated containers; the distribution system comprises a branch line cold chain system and a self-pick-up point, and the branch line cold chain system is used for transporting the central distribution refrigerated container to the self-pick-up point; the self-pick-up point is used for storing the central distribution refrigerated container for a user to pick up goods and storing an empty container returned by the user; wherein the distribution system adopts an unattended distribution mode. According to the invention, safe and reliable distribution under an unattended condition can be realized, the storage and transportation quality of fresh products is ensured, and the distribution timeliness is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of fresh product distribution, and in particular to an unattended fresh product cold chain system based on a central kitchen. Background Art

[0002] With the continuous improvement of people's living standards, the consumption demand for fresh products shows a trend of diversification and high quality. Due to the perishability of fresh products and their special requirements for the storage and transportation environment, cold chain logistics has become a key link in ensuring product quality. From post-harvest processing of agricultural products, fishing and processing of aquatic products to emerging categories such as quick-frozen foods and pre-prepared dishes, cold chain logistics has become an indispensable support for the fresh food industry chain. At present, fresh cold chain logistics has formed a complete industrial chain including primary processing, cold storage, refrigerated transportation, and terminal distribution, and has made significant progress in technical equipment, standards and specifications.

[0003] The existing fresh food cold chain logistics technology system mainly includes the following aspects: in the primary processing link, basic processing technologies such as pre-cooling, cleaning, grading, and packaging are adopted; in the warehousing link, standard cold storage facilities and warehousing management systems are equipped; in the transportation link, professional refrigerated fleets are used to complete trunk transportation and regional distribution; in the distribution link, terminal distribution is completed through cold chain distribution centers and refrigerated facilities.

[0004] However, there are still some technical problems in the practice of fresh cold chain logistics: under the traditional manual distribution mode, the labor cost of the distribution link is high, and manual operation is prone to errors; the temperature monitoring in the cold chain logistics process mainly relies on manual inspections, which makes it difficult to achieve real-time monitoring and timely adjustment; the manual handover in the distribution link is time-consuming and inefficient, affecting the timeliness of distribution; the quality management of fresh products during transportation and delivery lacks unified standards, and there are breakpoints in quality traceability; the terminal distribution link requires manual duty, which increases labor costs and limits service time. In addition, the information of each link in the traditional cold chain logistics is often in a relatively independent state, lacking an effective information sharing mechanism, which affects the improvement of logistics efficiency. Summary of the invention

[0005] In view of this, the present invention proposes an unmanned fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen, which realizes safe and reliable delivery under unmanned conditions through unified scheduling by a central server, modular packaging method and intelligent monitoring means, ensures the storage and transportation quality of fresh products, and improves the timeliness of delivery.

[0006] The technical solution of the present invention is achieved in this way:

[0007] The present invention provides an unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen, comprising:

[0008] The central server is used to receive user orders and distribute user orders to various distribution center processing systems;

[0009] The distribution center processing system includes a central cold chain distribution center warehouse and a central kitchen, where: the central kitchen is used to produce semi-finished pre-prepared dishes according to user orders; the central cold chain distribution center warehouse is used to pack different varieties of pre-prepared dishes into modular packaging boxes, and the combined modular packaging boxes are respectively loaded into the central distribution refrigerated boxes, and the delivery information is fed back to the central server;

[0010] The distribution system includes a feeder cold chain system and a self-pickup point. The feeder cold chain system is used to transport the central distribution refrigerated boxes from the central cold chain distribution center warehouse to the self-pickup point. The self-pickup point is used to store the central distribution refrigerated boxes for users to pick up goods, as well as to store the empty central distribution refrigerated boxes and empty modular packaging boxes returned by users.

[0011] Among them, the distribution system adopts unattended distribution mode.

[0012] On the basis of the above scheme, preferably, the modular packaging box includes: a stainless steel box body and a food-grade plastic cover, the food-grade plastic cover is provided with a small hole sealing device; the modular packaging box is equipped with a temperature sensor, a collision sensor and a short-range wireless communication module for data transmission with the central distribution refrigerator.

[0013] On the basis of the above scheme, preferably, the self-pickup point includes: a central distribution refrigerated box storage area for storing central distribution refrigerated boxes to be picked up; an empty box recycling area for storing empty boxes to be recycled; an intelligent management system for controlling and recording the storage and access status of the central distribution refrigerated boxes; and a temperature control system for maintaining a constant temperature in the storage environment.

[0014] On the basis of the above scheme, preferably, the intelligent management system of the pick-up point includes: an access control system, which has an identity recognition module and a permission management module, for verifying the identity of the delivery person and the user and managing access rights; a pickup code management system, for generating and verifying a one-time pickup code; and a remote monitoring system, for real-time monitoring of the operating status of the pick-up point.

[0015] On the basis of the above scheme, preferably, the self-pickup point is also provided with a security monitoring system, including: a video monitoring device for recording the storage and retrieval process; an environmental monitoring device for monitoring the environmental parameters of the storage area; an emergency alarm device for automatic alarm in abnormal situations.

[0016] On the basis of the above scheme, preferably, the central distribution refrigerator includes: an intelligent temperature control system for adaptively adjusting the storage temperature according to different types of pre-prepared dishes; an environmental monitoring system, including temperature sensors, humidity sensors and anti-collision sensors; a data transmission module for uploading the box operating parameters to the central server in real time; an electronic lock control device for managing the box switch; a display module for displaying the box status information; a power supply module that supports switching between AC power supply and backup power supply.

[0017] Based on the above scheme, preferably, the branch cold chain system includes: a cold chain delivery fleet equipped with an on-board temperature and humidity control device and a positioning system; a delivery dispatch center for optimizing delivery routes and managing delivery tasks; a real-time monitoring system for tracking delivery status and feeding data back to a central server;

[0018] Among them, the distribution dispatch center adopts a dynamic optimization algorithm based on big data, combined with data from the real-time monitoring system, to dynamically adjust the distribution route and transportation time.

[0019] Based on the above scheme, preferably, the central kitchen includes: an automated pre-prepared food production line equipped with intelligent processing equipment; a computer vision inspection system for quality control; an intelligent packaging system for standardized packaging of pre-prepared dishes; and a data acquisition system for recording production process data and uploading it to a central server.

[0020] On the basis of the above scheme, the central kitchen is also equipped with: a food safety traceability system for recording information from raw materials to finished products; a rapid cooling system for preserving pre-prepared dishes; a shelf life monitoring system for storage period management of pre-prepared dishes; and a product information management system for coding and information recording of pre-prepared dishes.

[0021] On the basis of the above scheme, preferably, the food safety traceability system of the central kitchen works in coordination with the rapid cooling system to optimize the cooling time and temperature through real-time data analysis, and dynamically monitor the food safety status during the cooling process through the traceability system.

[0022] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0023] (1) The present invention builds a complete cold chain system from the central kitchen to the pick-up point through unified scheduling by the central server, modular packaging, storage and transportation, and intelligent management, realizing safe delivery under unattended conditions and improving delivery timeliness;

[0024] (2) The modular packaging box of the present invention adopts a stainless steel box body and a food-grade plastic cover with a small hole sealing device, and is equipped with a temperature sensor, a collision sensor and a short-range wireless communication module. Through data linkage with the central distribution refrigerator, real-time monitoring of the storage environment of individual products is achieved, ensuring the classified storage and quality maintenance of different types of pre-prepared dishes;

[0025] (3) The pick-up point of the present invention implements access control and pickup code management through an intelligent management system, and cooperates with the multiple protection mechanisms of the security monitoring system to solve the safety problem of storage and pickup under unattended conditions and ensure the reliability of the distribution link;

[0026] (4) The central distribution refrigerator of the present invention adopts an intelligent temperature control system and an environmental monitoring system, which can adaptively adjust the storage temperature according to different types of pre-prepared dishes, and upload the operating parameters to the central server in real time through the data transmission module, thus realizing precise temperature control and full-process supervision during storage and transportation;

[0027] (5) The present invention configures an automated pre-prepared food production line and a computer vision detection system in the central kitchen, and combines it with a food safety traceability system to establish a standardized production process from raw materials to finished products, thereby improving the standardization of pre-prepared food production and the consistency of product quality. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] In order to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings required for use in the embodiments or the description of the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without paying creative work.

[0029] Figure 1 It is a system structure diagram of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The following will be combined with the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0031] The meanings of some terms in the present invention are as follows:

[0032] Central Distribution Cold Box (abbreviated as: large cold box);

[0033] Modular Segmentation Box (referred to as: small box);

[0034] Central Cold Chain Distribution Center (Central Cold Chain Distribution Center) (referred to as: Central Warehouse);

[0035] C-end consumers (people who place orders through the platform, referred to as users);

[0036] Central server: used to receive orders from network users;

[0037] Cold chain logistics system: responsible for the cold chain transportation of fresh products.

[0038] like Figure 1 As shown, the present invention provides an unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen, comprising:

[0039] The central server is used to receive user orders and distribute the user orders to the processing systems of various distribution centers;

[0040] The distribution center processing system includes a central cold chain distribution center warehouse and a central kitchen, where: the central kitchen is used to produce semi-finished pre-prepared dishes according to user orders; the central cold chain distribution center warehouse is used to pack different varieties of pre-prepared dishes into modular packaging boxes, and the combined modular packaging boxes are respectively loaded into the central distribution refrigerated boxes, and the delivery information is fed back to the central server;

[0041] The distribution system includes a feeder cold chain system and a self-pickup point. The feeder cold chain system is used to transport the central distribution refrigerated boxes from the central cold chain distribution center warehouse to the self-pickup point. The self-pickup point is used to store the central distribution refrigerated boxes for users to pick up goods, as well as to store the empty central distribution refrigerated boxes and empty modular packaging boxes returned by users.

[0042] Among them, the distribution system adopts unattended distribution mode.

[0043] It should be noted that in the field of fresh food e-commerce distribution, the key link of product quality control lies in the handover link in the last mile of distribution. In the existing technology, the transportation link of fresh products from the place of origin to the urban distribution center has achieved a full cold chain, but in the last link of delivery to the user, due to the mismatch between the delivery time and the user's receiving time, the fresh products cannot be delivered to the user in time, resulting in quality loss. This problem is particularly prominent in the unattended situation. In view of the distribution characteristics of the central area of ​​the city, the traditional daytime distribution mode faces many constraints: on the one hand, urban traffic congestion seriously affects the distribution efficiency; on the other hand, some areas impose traffic restrictions on distribution vehicles. In order to improve the distribution efficiency, adjusting the distribution time to nighttime has become an inevitable choice. However, nighttime delivery faces the challenge of unattended delivery, which is mainly reflected in two aspects: first, the traditional distribution model requires the goods to be delivered directly to the user's residence, but the user may have rested at night or cannot receive it in time, affecting the delivery efficiency; second, placing fresh products in the public space of the residential area poses a food safety risk, and once the loss of goods occurs, it is difficult to define the responsibility. To solve these problems, the present invention adopts a special community pick-up point model. By setting up an independent central distribution refrigerated box storage area and empty box recycling area, an intelligent management system is equipped to realize user identity authentication and pickup code management, and a security monitoring system is deployed for full supervision. This not only ensures the convenience and safety of night delivery, but also meets users' quality requirements for fresh pre-prepared dishes.

[0044] Based on the above problems, the unattended fresh cold chain system based on the central kitchen of the present invention is an intelligent solution that integrates the central server, the processing system of the distribution center and the distribution system. The central server is responsible for receiving user orders and distributing the orders to the processing systems of each distribution center for processing. The processing system of the distribution center consists of a central cold chain distribution center warehouse and a central kitchen, wherein the central kitchen produces semi-finished pre-prepared dishes according to user orders, and the central cold chain distribution center warehouse is responsible for packaging different varieties of pre-prepared dishes into modular sub-packaging boxes, and the combined modular sub-packaging boxes are loaded into the central distribution refrigerated box, and the delivery information is fed back to the central server. The distribution system includes a branch cold chain system and a self-pickup point. The branch cold chain system is responsible for transporting the central distribution refrigerated box from the central cold chain distribution center warehouse to the self-pickup point, and the self-pickup point is used to store the central distribution refrigerated box for users to pick up, and at the same time recycle the empty boxes and modular sub-packaging boxes returned by users. The entire distribution system adopts an unattended distribution method, which improves operational efficiency.

[0045] The central server is the core control unit of the present invention, responsible for coordinating the operation of the entire unattended fresh cold chain system. Its main functions include: receiving user order information, parsing order content and distributing it to the corresponding distribution center processing system; real-time monitoring of the operating status of each link of the system, including the production progress of the central kitchen, the transportation status of the distribution system, and the storage status of the self-pickup point; managing and storing system operation data, supporting food safety traceability and user order inquiries; and interacting with central distribution refrigerated boxes, branch cold chain systems, self-pickup points and other equipment through data transmission modules to ensure real-time data updates and synchronization. The central server is deployed in the cloud, has efficient data processing capabilities and a secure access control mechanism, supports multi-user concurrent operations, and optimizes order allocation and delivery routes through intelligent algorithms to improve the overall operation efficiency of the system.

[0046] The modular packaging box is designed with a stainless steel body and a food-grade plastic cover. The plastic cover is equipped with a small hole sealing device and is equipped with a temperature sensor, a collision sensor and a short-range wireless communication module for data transmission with the central distribution refrigerated box. The self-pickup point includes a central distribution refrigerated box storage area, an empty box recycling area and an intelligent management system. The intelligent management system has access control, pickup code management and remote monitoring functions. It can verify the identity of the delivery person and the user, generate and verify a one-time pickup code, and monitor the operating status of the self-pickup point in real time. In addition, the self-pickup point is also equipped with a security system, including a video surveillance device, an environmental monitoring device and an emergency alarm device, which is used to record the storage and retrieval process, monitor the environmental parameters of the storage area, and automatically alarm in abnormal situations.

[0047] The central distribution refrigerated box is equipped with an intelligent temperature control system that can adaptively adjust the storage temperature according to different types of pre-prepared dishes. It is also equipped with an environmental monitoring system, including temperature sensors, humidity sensors and anti-collision sensors, which are used to monitor the internal environment of the box in real time. The refrigerated box also integrates a data transmission module to upload operating parameters to the central server, and manages the switch operation of the box through an electronic lock control device. The display module is used to display the box status information. The power supply module supports switching between mains power supply and backup power supply to ensure that the system can still operate normally in the event of a power outage.

[0048] In a specific embodiment, the central distribution refrigerated box is provided with a plurality of partitions, which divide the central distribution refrigerated box into a plurality of areas, and horizontal slide rails are installed on the left and right side walls of each area, and the slide rails extend along the depth direction of the central distribution refrigerated box; sliders matching the slide rails are installed on both sides of the modular packaging box, and the sliders are protruding parts, and the shape matches the slide rails; the modular packaging box is embedded in the central distribution refrigerated box through the matching of the sliders and the slide rails.

[0049] In one example, the internal slide rail setting of the central distribution refrigerated box: horizontal slide rails are installed on the inner wall of the central distribution refrigerated box. Each layer should have a pair of slide rails, one on the left and one on the right. The slide rails should extend along the depth of the refrigerated box so that the modular packaging boxes can slide in from the front to the back. The slide rails can be made of metal strips with L-shaped or C-shaped cross-sections to ensure sufficient strength and smoothness. The slide rails should be fixed to the inner wall of the large box and can be installed using screws or rivets. Modular packaging box slider setting: sliders matching the slide rails are installed on both sides of the modular packaging box. The slider can be a simple protrusion whose shape must match the slide rail. For example, if the slide rail is L-shaped, the slider is a flat protrusion. The slider extends along the length of the modular packaging box to ensure stability. The slider can be directly formed on the modular packaging box, or fixed to the side wall of the modular packaging box by bolts or the like.

[0050] In another example, the material of the slide rail and the slider is selected to be wear-resistant and low-friction material, such as stainless steel or high-strength plastic. A stop device is set at the end of the slide rail to prevent the small box from sliding out.

[0051] The main function of the distribution center processing system is to complete the production, packaging and distribution preparation of pre-prepared dishes according to user orders. The system includes two core modules: the central cold chain distribution center warehouse and the central kitchen. The two modules work together to ensure the efficient connection of fresh products from production to distribution.

[0052] The functions of the distribution center processing system are as follows:

[0053] Order processing and distribution: The distribution center processing system receives user orders distributed by the central server, parses the order content and generates production plans and packaging tasks.

[0054] Pre-prepared meal production: The central kitchen uses automated production lines and intelligent processing equipment to complete the standardized production of pre-prepared meals based on order requirements.

[0055] Modular packaging: The central cold chain distribution center warehouse is responsible for combining different varieties of pre-prepared dishes according to order requirements and packing them into modular packaging boxes to ensure the quality and safety of the products during transportation.

[0056] Cold chain preparation and feedback: The assembled modular packaging boxes are loaded into the central distribution refrigerated box, and the delivery information is fed back to the central server in real time to provide support for subsequent distribution links.

[0057] As the core module of the system, the central kitchen is equipped with an automated pre-made food production line, a computer vision inspection system, an intelligent packaging system, and a data acquisition system. The automated production line completes the standardized production of pre-made food through intelligent processing equipment. The computer vision inspection system is used for quality control. The intelligent packaging system realizes standardized packaging. The data acquisition system records the production process data and uploads it to the central server.

[0058] Specifically, the automated pre-made food production line adopts a pipeline layout and is equipped with intelligent processing equipment, including: Raw material processing area: Automatic cleaning system: Adopting a multi-stage cleaning process, including pre-rinsing, ultrasonic cleaning, and pure water rinsing, to ensure the cleanliness of raw materials; Intelligent sorting equipment: Automatically completes the quality grading of raw materials through photoelectric sensors and weight sensors; Automatic cutting and sizing equipment: Completes the processing of raw materials such as shredding, slicing, and dicing according to the requirements of the pre-made food recipe; Proportioning area: Intelligent weighing system: Using high-precision electronic scales to accurately weigh raw materials according to the standard recipe; Automatic packaging device: Combines various weighed raw materials in proportion; Conveyor system: Adopting a food-grade conveyor belt to ensure the smooth transfer of raw materials between processes; Equipped with an anti-cross-contamination partition device to avoid the mutual influence between different raw materials.

[0059] The computer vision inspection system is set at key nodes of the production line to achieve full-process quality monitoring: Raw material inspection: Using a high-definition industrial camera array to detect the freshness, integrity, and appearance quality of raw materials; Through deep learning algorithms, automatically identify and reject unqualified raw materials; Proportioning inspection: Real-time monitoring whether the proportion of various raw materials meets the standard requirements; Through image analysis technology, ensure the consistency of cutting and sizing; Packaging inspection: Check the tightness of the packaging and the accuracy of label information; Conduct a final appearance inspection on the finished product.

[0060] The intelligent packaging system is responsible for the standardized packaging of pre-made food, mainly including: Modified atmosphere packaging equipment: Adopting modified gas packaging technology to extend the shelf life of pre-made food; Equipped with a gas concentration monitoring device to ensure the stability of the packaging environment; Packaging material control: Automatically supply food-grade packaging materials; Monitor the usage status of packaging materials through sensors.

[0061] The data acquisition system realizes full-process data monitoring and recording:

[0062] Content collected:

[0063] Raw material information: including source, batch number, quality grade, etc.; Production parameters: cleaning temperature, cutting and sizing, proportioning weight, etc.; Packaging parameters: modified atmosphere concentration, tightness test results, etc.; Environmental parameters: workshop temperature, humidity, cleanliness, etc.

[0064] Data processing:

[0065] Set up a data processing server locally to realize real-time data analysis; establish a data anomaly alarm mechanism to promptly detect and handle production anomalies.

[0066] Data transmission: Industrial Ethernet is used for data transmission; data is uploaded to the central server regularly to support remote monitoring and quality traceability.

[0067] The central kitchen is also equipped with a food safety traceability system, a rapid cooling system, a shelf life monitoring system, and a product information management system. The food safety traceability system records all information from raw materials to finished products, the rapid cooling system preserves pre-prepared dishes by optimizing cooling time and temperature, the shelf life monitoring system dynamically manages the storage period, and the product information management system encodes and records information on pre-prepared dishes. The food safety traceability system works in conjunction with the rapid cooling system to optimize the cooling process through real-time data analysis and dynamically monitor food safety status to ensure the safety and quality of products throughout the entire production and distribution process.

[0068] The food safety traceability system is an important part of the central kitchen. Its main function is to record all information from raw materials to finished products to ensure the traceability and safety of food. The specific implementation is as follows:

[0069] Unique code generation: When each modular packaging box enters the production process, a unique code (such as a QR code or RFID tag) will be generated. This code is bound to the production batch, raw material source, processing process and packaging information of the pre-prepared dish.

[0070] Raw material traceability: The system records the supplier information, purchase time, inspection report and other data of each batch of raw materials, and associates this information with the unique code of the modular packaging box.

[0071] Process traceability: During the production process, the system records key processing parameters (such as cutting, mixing, cooking time and temperature) through data acquisition equipment and uploads them to the central server in real time. These data are bound to the unique code of the modular packaging box to ensure that the processing process of each pre-prepared dish can be traced.

[0072] Packaging information traceability: In the intelligent packaging process, the system records the packaging time, packaging method (such as vacuum packaging or modified atmosphere packaging) and the operating status of the packaging equipment, and associates this information with the unique code of the modular packaging box.

[0073] Real-time monitoring and query: The food safety traceability system supports real-time monitoring and query functions. Users or regulatory authorities can obtain full process information from raw materials to finished products by scanning the unique code on the modular packaging box.

[0074] The rapid cooling system is used to quickly cool down the processed pre-prepared dishes to extend the shelf life and ensure food safety. The specific implementation is as follows:

[0075] Cooling equipment configuration: The central kitchen is equipped with multiple rapid cooling equipment (such as tunnel coolers or liquid nitrogen cooling devices), which can automatically adjust the cooling parameters according to the characteristics of different pre-prepared dishes (such as weight, ingredients, initial temperature).

[0076] Dynamic cooling optimization: The rapid cooling system works in conjunction with the food safety traceability system to optimize cooling time and temperature through real-time data analysis. For example, the system dynamically adjusts the operating parameters of the cooling equipment based on the processing temperature and packaging method of the pre-prepared dishes. The system monitors the temperature change curve during the cooling process in real time to ensure that the cooling speed meets food safety standards and avoids overcooling or undercooling.

[0077] Cooling process monitoring: During the cooling process, the system monitors the status of the cooling environment in real time through temperature sensors and humidity sensors, and uploads the data to the central server. These data are bound to the unique code of the modular packaging box to form a complete cooling record.

[0078] Cooling completion mark: After cooling is completed, the system will add a cooling completion mark to the unique code of the modular packaging box, and record the cooling time, cooling temperature and other information to ensure that the cooling status can be identified in subsequent links.

[0079] The shelf life monitoring system is used to dynamically manage the storage period of pre-prepared dishes to ensure that the products are delivered to users within the shelf life. The specific implementation method is as follows:

[0080] Shelf life calculation: The system automatically calculates the shelf life of each batch of products based on the production date, cooling completion time and storage conditions (such as temperature and humidity) of the pre-prepared dishes.

[0081] Dynamically update shelf life: During the distribution and storage process, the system will dynamically adjust the shelf life based on real-time monitoring data (such as temperature and humidity fluctuations). For example, if the cold chain environment temperature deviates from the standard range for a short period of time, the system will shorten the shelf life and record the abnormal situation. If the cold chain environment remains stable, the system will maintain the original shelf life.

[0082] Early warning mechanism: The system is equipped with a shelf life early warning function. When a batch of pre-prepared dishes is approaching its shelf life, the system will send reminders to the central server and relevant personnel, and give priority to the delivery or processing of this batch of products.

[0083] Information recording: The shelf life information is bound to the unique code of the modular packaging box, and users can obtain the remaining shelf life information of the product by scanning the code.

[0084] The product information management system is used to encode and record information of pre-prepared dishes to ensure the integrity and traceability of product information. The specific implementation is as follows:

[0085] Information coding: After production, each modular packaging box will generate a unique code containing the following information: product name and category (such as frozen food, refrigerated food). Production date and time. Raw material source and batch number. Processing parameters (such as processing temperature and time). Packaging method (such as vacuum packaging, modified atmosphere packaging). Cooling completion time and cooling parameters. Shelf life and remaining time.

[0086] Information storage and transmission: All coded information will be uploaded to the central server in real time and synchronized to the intelligent management system of the distribution system and pick-up point to ensure that the information is available throughout the cold chain process.

[0087] User query: When picking up goods, users can scan the QR code or RFID tag on the modular packaging box to obtain detailed information about the product, including the production process, cold chain status and shelf life.

[0088] The food safety traceability system works in conjunction with the rapid cooling system to optimize cooling time and temperature through real-time data analysis, and dynamically monitor the food safety status during the cooling process. The specific collaboration methods are as follows:

[0089] Data sharing: The rapid cooling system uploads the real-time temperature data during the cooling process to the food safety traceability system, which dynamically adjusts the cooling parameters based on this data.

[0090] Exception handling: If temperature deviation or equipment failure occurs during the cooling process, the traceability system will record the abnormal situation and trigger an alarm to ensure that the problem can be solved in time.

[0091] Cooling status monitoring: The traceability system monitors the status of pre-prepared dishes that have completed cooling to ensure that all products have met the cooling requirements before entering the next stage.

[0092] Through the coordinated work of the food safety traceability system, rapid cooling system, shelf life monitoring system and product information management system, the central kitchen can achieve full process management and dynamic monitoring of pre-prepared dishes from raw materials to finished products. The unique code on the modular packaging box runs through the entire production and distribution process, recording various information of the pre-prepared dishes, ensuring the safety, traceability and efficient management of food.

[0093] As an important part of the unmanned fresh cold chain system, the distribution system mainly includes two modules: the branch cold chain system and the self-pickup point. Its core goal is to complete the whole process of distribution from the central cold chain distribution center warehouse to the user's pick-up in an intelligent and automated way, while achieving efficient, safe and reliable unmanned operation.

[0094] The branch cold chain system is responsible for transporting the central distribution refrigerated boxes from the central cold chain distribution center warehouse to each pick-up point. To ensure the efficiency of the distribution process and the stability of the cold chain environment, the branch cold chain system consists of a cold chain distribution fleet, a distribution dispatch center and a real-time monitoring system. The cold chain distribution fleet is equipped with an on-board temperature and humidity control device and a positioning system. The temperature and humidity control device can dynamically adjust the temperature and humidity in the compartment according to the type of food in the central distribution refrigerated box and the cold chain requirements to ensure that the food is always in the best storage environment during transportation. The positioning system records the current location and driving route of the vehicle in real time, and uploads the data to the central server for monitoring and management by the dispatch center. The distribution dispatch center dynamically adjusts the distribution route and transportation time through a dynamic optimization algorithm based on big data, combined with the data of the real-time monitoring system. The dispatch center will optimize the distribution route based on factors such as real-time traffic conditions (such as congested sections, accident sections), weather changes (such as rain and snow), and vehicle status (such as remaining cruising range, load conditions), to ensure maximum distribution efficiency and minimize transportation costs. At the same time, the dispatch center will reasonably allocate vehicles and tasks according to the order priority and delivery time limit, giving priority to urgent orders. The real-time monitoring system is used to track the delivery status and feed back the vehicle's operating data (such as temperature and humidity, location, speed) to the central server in real time. If an abnormal situation occurs during transportation (such as temperature and humidity deviating from the standard, vehicle failure, etc.), the system will automatically trigger an alarm and notify the dispatch center to take emergency measures, such as reallocating vehicles or adjusting delivery routes.

[0095] In a specific embodiment, the specific process of the dynamic optimization algorithm is:

[0096] 1. Data collection and initialization

[0097] Before the delivery task begins, the system needs to collect and initialize the following data:

[0098] Order data: including delivery address, delivery time window, order weight, order priority, etc.

[0099] Vehicle status data: including the vehicle’s current location, remaining load, remaining mileage, vehicle temperature and humidity status, etc.

[0100] Environmental data: including real-time traffic conditions (such as congested roads, traffic accidents), weather information (such as temperature, humidity, rainfall), etc.

[0101] Cold chain demand data: including temperature and humidity requirements, delivery time limits, etc. for different types of pre-prepared dishes.

[0102] Historical data: including historical delivery routes, delivery times, costs, etc., for model training and optimization.

[0103] All data is collected through the vehicle positioning system, temperature and humidity sensors, real-time monitoring system and central server, and stored in the big data platform of the distribution dispatch center.

[0104] 2. Dynamically optimize the objective function

[0105] In order to maximize distribution efficiency and minimize costs, the following optimization objective function is designed:

[0106] Minimize: C = α 1 ·T+α 2 ·D+α 3 E+α 4 ·P;

[0107] Among them, C is the total delivery cost; T is the total delivery time; D is the total delivery distance; E is the energy consumption; P is the cold chain stability penalty factor; α 1 , α 2 , α 3 , α 4 is the weight coefficient.

[0108] 3. Optimize algorithm flow

[0109] (1) Route planning (initial path generation)

[0110] Use Dijkstra algorithm or A* algorithm to generate the initial delivery path based on real-time traffic data and historical delivery data. The initial path must meet the following constraints: the load of each vehicle must not exceed its maximum carrying capacity, the delivery time of each order must not exceed its time limit, and the cold chain environment (temperature and humidity) must meet the order requirements.

[0111] (2) Dynamic adjustment (real-time optimization)

[0112] During the delivery process, the real-time monitoring system will continuously feedback the vehicle status and environmental data, and the algorithm will dynamically adjust the delivery route and transportation time based on this data. The specific steps are as follows:

[0113] Real-time data update: Get the vehicle's current location, remaining load, mileage, and vehicle temperature and humidity status. Get real-time traffic conditions (such as newly added congested sections and accident sections). Get weather change information (such as rainfall, sudden temperature drop, etc.).

[0114] Local route optimization: If a route is congested or impassable, use a local route optimization algorithm (such as the Tabu search algorithm based on neighborhood search) to replan the route. During the optimization process, orders with tight time windows are given priority.

[0115] Cold chain environment adjustment: If the vehicle's temperature and humidity deviate from the standard, the vehicle's temperature and humidity control device will be used to adjust it. If the vehicle cannot meet the cold chain requirements, a nearby spare vehicle will be dynamically allocated to take over the delivery task.

[0116] (3) Multi-objective collaborative optimization

[0117] Genetic algorithm (GA) is used to perform multi-objective optimization of the delivery routes to ensure a balance between time, cost and cold chain stability.

[0118] The key steps of genetic algorithm are:

[0119] Encoding: Encode the delivery routes into chromosomes.

[0120] Fitness function: Take the objective function C as the fitness function to evaluate the pros and cons of each route.

[0121] Selection: Select chromosomes with higher fitness for crossover and mutation.

[0122] Crossover and mutation: Generate new routes through crossover operation and explore new path possibilities through mutation operation.

[0123] Iteration: Continuously iterate until the optimal solution is found or the preset number of iterations is reached.

[0124] (4) Exception handling mechanism

[0125] If a vehicle breaks down or the cold chain equipment fails, the algorithm will automatically trigger an emergency mechanism: dispatch the nearest spare vehicle to take over the delivery task, dynamically adjust the delivery tasks of other vehicles, and reallocate orders.

[0126] The pick-up point is the terminal link of the distribution system. It is mainly used to store the central distribution refrigerated boxes for users to pick up goods, and to collect the empty central distribution refrigerated boxes and modular packaging boxes returned by users. The design of the pick-up point fully considers the characteristics of unattended operation, integrating the intelligent management system, temperature control system and security system to ensure the convenience and safety of operation.

[0127] The pick-up point includes a central distribution refrigerated box storage area and an empty box recycling area. The central distribution refrigerated box storage area is used to store refrigerated boxes to be picked up. The system will allocate the refrigerated boxes to designated locations based on the user's order information and record the storage and retrieval status. The empty box recycling area is used to store empty central distribution refrigerated boxes and modular packaging boxes returned by users for subsequent cleaning and recycling.

[0128] The intelligent management system is the core module of the pick-up point, which is mainly responsible for controlling and recording the access status of the central distribution refrigerated box. The intelligent management system includes the following sub-modules:

[0129] Access control system: Verifies the identities of delivery staff and users through an identity recognition module and a permission management module, and manages access permissions. When the delivery staff stores the refrigerated box, they need to pass identity verification. When the user picks up the goods, they need to complete identity confirmation by scanning the pickup code.

[0130] Pickup code management system: Used to generate and verify one-time pickup codes. After the user places an order, they will receive a pickup code generated by the system. When picking up the goods, they unlock the refrigerated box by scanning the pickup code, ensuring the security and uniqueness of each order.

[0131] Remote monitoring system: Monitors the operating status of the pick-up point in real time, including the access and storage of refrigerated boxes, the operating status of the temperature control system, etc. If an abnormality occurs (such as abnormal temperature in the refrigerated box, equipment failure, etc.), the system will automatically send an alarm message to the central server.

[0132] In a specific embodiment, the implementation process of the intelligent management system is as follows:

[0133] 1. Access control system

[0134] Identity recognition module:

[0135] Delivery staff identity verification: When the delivery staff stores the refrigerated box at the pick-up point, they can verify their identity through the built-in fingerprint recognition device or face recognition camera. For example, after the delivery staff arrives at the pick-up point, they first obtain authorization through the identity verification module. After successful verification, the console at the pick-up point will open the entrance to the central distribution refrigerated box storage area, allowing them to deposit the box into the corresponding storage area.

[0136] User identity verification: After the user arrives at the pick-up point, they can enter information such as the mobile phone number and membership account through the touch screen at the pick-up point for preliminary verification, and then scan the pickup code sent by the system to complete the final identity confirmation. Once the verification is passed, the system will automatically unlock the corresponding refrigerated box, and the user can pick up the goods.

[0137] Permission management module:

[0138] Hierarchical permission management: The system dynamically assigns access permissions according to the identity category (delivery staff, user, administrator). For example: Delivery staff can only access the storage area for storing refrigerated boxes, and their operation permissions will be restricted (such as they can only store, but cannot take away the refrigerated boxes of users). Users can only open the refrigerated box corresponding to their order information and cannot unlock the refrigerated boxes of other users. Administrators have access permissions to all areas and all refrigerated boxes for online or offline intervention in handling abnormal events.

[0139] Record logs: For each authorized operation after identity verification, the system will generate a corresponding log, including identity information (such as delivery person's name, user's mobile phone number), operation time, operation type (storage or pickup), etc., and upload it to the central data center for review.

[0140] 2. Pickup code management system

[0141] Generate pickup code:

[0142] After the order is completed, the system will automatically generate a one-time pickup code and send it to the user via SMS, App push, email, etc. For example, after the user completes the order, the mobile phone will receive a text message containing a unique pickup code, along with the pickup point address, pickup time, etc. Each pickup code is bound to the user's order and cold storage box to ensure the uniqueness of the pickup code.

[0143] Pickup code verification:

[0144] After the user arrives at the pick-up point, he / she reads the pickup code by touching the scanning area on the device at the pick-up point: If the verification is successful, the system will match the refrigerated box corresponding to the user's order, unlock the designated refrigerated box storage area, and record the user's pickup time. If the verification fails (such as input or scanning errors), the system will prompt the user to re-enter the code and record the failed attempt. When continuous verification errors occur, the system will temporarily lock the user account and trigger administrator intervention. After the verification is completed, the system will immediately cancel the pickup code to avoid repeated use. At the same time, the user's order status will be updated from "pending for pickup" to "completed".

[0145] Security design:

[0146] The pickup code is a one-time use code, and its validity period is usually set to 24 to 48 hours. If it is not used after the validity period, the system will automatically invalidate it and regenerate a new pickup code via SMS to send it to the user. The system has a built-in anti-counterfeiting mechanism. Each pickup code is automatically generated through a random encryption algorithm and embedded with specific information of the user's order (such as the refrigerator box number and the pickup point number) to prevent it from being forged or copied.

[0147] 3. Remote monitoring system

[0148] Self-pickup point operation status monitoring:

[0149] Storage and access monitoring: The system will record the storage status of all refrigerated boxes in real time, such as which refrigerated boxes are in "storage", which have been picked up by users, and which are empty. For example, after the deliveryman puts the refrigerated box in the storage area, the system will automatically update the status of the refrigerated box to "pending for collection" and associate it with the corresponding user's order.

[0150] Temperature Regulation and Monitoring: The system uploads the temperature and humidity data inside the refrigerated box every 5 minutes through built-in temperature and humidity sensors. For example, if the internal temperature of the refrigerated box remains between 2°C and 8°C, the system will record it as "normal". If the temperature exceeds the set range (such as rising to 12°C), the system will trigger an alarm mechanism.

[0151] Abnormal Condition Alarm:

[0152] Equipment Failure Monitoring: The system will monitor the operation of the equipment at the pick-up point in real-time for health status; in case of a failure (such as the refrigerated box lock not working properly, abnormal touch screen response), the system will automatically send a failure report to the administrator and record the log. The system can attempt to repair simple failures through remote updates. If it cannot be repaired, it can notify the property management to intervene for on-site handling.

[0153] Cold Chain Abnormal Situation: If it is found that the temperature inside the refrigerated box rises abnormally, the system will automatically trigger an alarm, send the information to the central server, and remind the user to pick up the order in time or the dispatcher to go and replace the refrigerated box.

[0154] Security Alarm: In case of illegal acts (such as violent lock-picking, forced damage to the refrigerated box), the security system at the pick-up point will detect through sensors or video surveillance equipment and activate the emergency alarm device, send a real-time notification to the supervision center, start the audible and visual alarm prompt, and record the video capture information at the same time.

[0155] Data Upload and Report Feedback:

[0156] All operation data and alarm information will be uploaded to the central data management platform in real-time for remote monitoring by the dispatching center and the administrator. The system supports one-key generation of operation reports, recording the daily access quantity, operation status of the refrigerated box, and whether abnormal situations have been handled.

[0157] The temperature regulation system is used to maintain a constant temperature state in the storage environment at the pick-up point. The system monitors the environmental parameters in the storage area in real-time through temperature sensors and humidity sensors, and dynamically adjusts the temperature according to the cold chain requirements of the food inside the refrigerated box to ensure that the food is always in a safe storage environment before pick-up.

[0158] The security system provides guarantee for the safe operation of the pick-up point, including video surveillance devices, environmental monitoring devices, and emergency alarm devices. The video surveillance device is used to record the process of accessing and picking up goods to ensure the transparency and traceability of operations; the environmental monitoring device is used to monitor the environmental parameters (such as temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) in the storage area and trigger an alarm when the parameters are abnormal; the emergency alarm device is used to automatically alarm in case of abnormal situations (such as illegal intrusion, equipment failure) and notify relevant personnel for handling.

[0159] The distribution system adopts an unattended distribution method, and realizes full-process automation through intelligent equipment and systems. In the branch cold chain system, the cold chain distribution fleet realizes temperature and humidity control and positioning through on-board equipment, and the distribution dispatch center realizes task allocation and route optimization through dynamic optimization algorithms and real-time monitoring systems. At the self-pickup point, the intelligent management system, temperature control system and security system work together to realize automatic storage and retrieval of refrigerated boxes, dynamic control of the environment and automatic alarm of abnormal situations.

[0160] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc. made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included in the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen, characterized in that: include: The central server is used to receive user orders and distribute user orders to various distribution center processing systems; The processing system of the distribution center includes a central cold chain distribution center warehouse and a central kitchen, wherein: the central kitchen is used to produce semi-finished pre-prepared dishes according to user orders; the central cold chain distribution center warehouse is used to pack different varieties of pre-prepared dishes into modular packaging boxes, and respectively load the combined modular packaging boxes into central distribution refrigerated boxes, and feed back the delivery information to the central server; the distribution system includes a branch cold chain system and a pick-up point, and the branch cold chain system is used to transport the central distribution refrigerated boxes from the central cold chain distribution center warehouse to the pick-up point; the pick-up point is used to store the central distribution refrigerated boxes for users to pick up, as well as to store empty central distribution refrigerated boxes and empty modular packaging boxes returned by users; wherein, the distribution system adopts an unattended distribution method.

2. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The modular packaging box includes: a stainless steel box body and a food-grade plastic cover, on which a small hole sealing device is provided; the modular packaging box is equipped with a temperature sensor, a collision sensor and a short-range wireless communication module for data transmission with a central distribution refrigerator.

3. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The self-pickup point includes: a central distribution refrigerated box storage area, which is used to store the central distribution refrigerated boxes to be picked up; an empty box recycling area, which is used to store the empty boxes to be recycled; an intelligent management system, which is used to control and record the storage and access status of the central distribution refrigerated boxes; and a temperature control system, which is used to maintain a constant temperature in the storage environment.

4. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that: The intelligent management system of the self-pickup point includes: an access control system, which has an identity recognition module and a permission management module, which are used to verify the identity of the delivery person and the user and manage access rights; a pickup code management system, which is used to generate and verify a one-time pickup code; and a remote monitoring system, which is used to monitor the operating status of the self-pickup point in real time.

5. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that: The self-pickup point is also equipped with a security system, including: a video monitoring device for recording the storage and retrieval process; an environmental monitoring device for monitoring the environmental parameters of the storage area; and an emergency alarm device for automatic alarm in abnormal situations.

6. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The central distribution refrigerated box includes: an intelligent temperature control system, which is used to adaptively adjust the storage temperature according to different types of pre-prepared dishes; an environmental monitoring system, including temperature sensors, humidity sensors and anti-collision sensors; a data transmission module, which is used to upload the box operating parameters to the central server in real time; an electronic lock control device, which is used to manage the box switch; a display module, which is used to display the box status information; a power supply module, which supports switching between AC power supply and backup power supply.

7. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The branch cold chain system includes: a cold chain distribution fleet equipped with on-board temperature and humidity control devices and a positioning system; a distribution dispatching center for optimizing distribution routes and managing distribution tasks; a real-time monitoring system for tracking distribution status and feeding data back to a central server; wherein the distribution dispatching center adopts a dynamic optimization algorithm based on big data, combined with data from the real-time monitoring system, to dynamically adjust distribution routes and transportation times.

8. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that: The central kitchen includes: an automated pre-prepared food production line equipped with intelligent processing equipment; a computer vision inspection system for quality control; an intelligent packaging system for standardized packaging of pre-prepared foods; and a data acquisition system for recording production process data and uploading it to a central server.

9. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that: The central kitchen is also equipped with: a food safety traceability system for recording information from raw materials to finished products; a rapid cooling system for preserving pre-prepared dishes; a shelf life monitoring system for storage period management of pre-prepared dishes; and a product information management system for coding and information recording of pre-prepared dishes.

10. The unattended fresh cold chain system based on a central kitchen as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that: The food safety traceability system of the central kitchen works in conjunction with the rapid cooling system to optimize cooling time and temperature through real-time data analysis, and dynamically monitor the food safety status during the cooling process through the traceability system.

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