A method for preparing a xanthoceras sorbifolia beverage

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of Xingguo fruit beverage production, in particular to a Xingguo fruit beverage preparation method, wherein the preparation device comprises a filter tank body with a top feeding port and a bottom side discharge port, a filter screen in the shape of a hemispherical shell is arranged in the filter tank body through a mounting arm, the filter screen is in the shape of an upward protrusion with a diameter that increases downwards, a grinding space in the tank is arranged below the filter screen, and the top of the grinding space in the tank is connected with the bottom end of the filter screen. The filter screen is designed as a hemispherical shell in the shape of an upward protrusion, a grinding space in the tank formed by a grinding part and a conical grinding disc is arranged below the filter screen, large-particle kernel residues filtered out fall into the grinding space in the tank along the upper surface of the filter screen, the kernel residues can be directly ground and refined, compared with the traditional technology, the filtered large-particle Xingguo kernel residues do not need to be transferred to a grinding equipment to be ground again, the operation process steps are reduced, and the preparation efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of Xanthoceras sorbifolium beverage production technology, specifically a method for preparing Xanthoceras sorbifolium beverage. Background Technology

[0002] *Xanthoceras sorbifolium*, a deciduous small tree or shrub native to China, belongs to the genus *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* in the family Sapindaceae. Its fruit is edible and has certain medicinal value; the pulp is sweet and sour, and the seeds have a high oil content, which can be used to extract oil. The extracted oil can be used not only as edible oil but also has good medicinal and industrial applications.

[0003] Because *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernels are rich in oil and protein, they have high nutritional value. Currently, the utilization of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernels mainly focuses on oil extraction and protein utilization, while research on their use in beverage preparation is limited. In particular, after pressing the kernels for oil, the resulting kernel residue cannot be rationally utilized, easily leading to resource waste. Therefore, this invention provides a method for preparing *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* beverages.

[0004] When preparing Xanthoceras sorbifolium beverages, the kernels need to be ground into a pulp. The resulting pulp contains large, incompletely ground kernel residue. Therefore, a pulp filtration system is required to filter the pulp and remove the large residue to obtain a pulp. Traditional pulp filtration equipment discards the large residue directly after separation, resulting in low raw material utilization. Alternatively, the separated large residue can be collected and fed back into the grinding equipment for further grinding, adding extra steps that are time-consuming and labor-intensive, leading to low overall production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage to solve the technical problems mentioned in the background art.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0007] A method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage, characterized by the following specific preparation steps:

[0008] Pretreatment; material preparation; drying and grinding; slurry filtration; slurry preparation; homogenization; sterilization and cooling; filling;

[0009] The raw materials are prepared according to the following weight proportions: 1-6 parts of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue, 3-6 parts of white sugar, 0.015-0.5 parts of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 0.01-0.2 parts of monoglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01-0.2 parts of diglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01-0.2 parts of xanthan gum, 0.01-0.2 parts of agar, and 87.7-96.3 parts of water;

[0010] The slurry filtration process is as follows: the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry is filtered using a *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* beverage preparation device, and the filtered residue is ground to obtain a fine *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry.

[0011] Preferably, the pretreatment steps are as follows: the residue of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernels after pressing the pulp to extract oil is washed three times with water at 60°C, and then soaked in purified water at 70°C for 72 hours. During the soaking process, it is stirred 3 times per hour for 10 minutes each time. After that, the cyanide content is tested, and the qualified residue is ready for use.

[0012] The specific steps of drying and grinding are as follows: the *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue is dried by far-infrared baking at a temperature of 120-180℃ for 2-4 hours, and the dried *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue and pure water at 35℃-40℃ are put into a grinder and ground in a ratio of 1:5 to obtain *Vernicia fordii* kernel slurry.

[0013] The specific steps for preparing the slurry are as follows: add water to the high-speed shearing machine, then add the fine slurry of *Vernicia fordii* kernels, white sugar, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, monoglyceride, diglyceride, xanthan gum, and agar, and shear and mix for 10 minutes;

[0014] The homogenization step is as follows: the prepared beverage slurry is subjected to two high-pressure homogenization processes at 75-85℃, with a homogenization pressure of 20-50MPa, to obtain the beverage slurry;

[0015] The sterilization and cooling steps are as follows: the beverage slurry that has been homogenized under high pressure is subjected to high-temperature instantaneous sterilization at 140-150℃ for 6-10 seconds, and then immediately cooled.

[0016] The specific filling steps are as follows: the sterilized and cooled beverage slurry is filled using an aseptic filling machine. The beverage temperature is maintained at 17-25℃ during filling, and the filling capacity is 250g.

[0017] Preferably, the *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage preparation device includes a filter tank with a feeding port at the top and a discharge port on one side of the bottom. A hemispherical filter screen is installed inside the filter tank via an mounting arm, and the filter screen is convex upward with a diameter that increases downward. An internal grinding space is provided below the filter screen inside the filter tank. The top of the internal grinding space is connected to the bottom of the filter screen, and the bottom of the internal grinding space is connected to the inner wall of the filter tank. The internal grinding space is used to re-grind and crush the large particles of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue that have been filtered out. There is a gap between the bottom of the filter screen and the inner wall of the filter tank for the large particles of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue to enter the internal grinding space.

[0018] Preferably, the side wall of the filter tank is convex near the grinding space inside the tank. From top to bottom, the convex section consists of a grinding part, a vertical part, and an inclined part. The diameter of the grinding part increases downwards, while the diameter of the inclined part decreases downwards. A conical grinding disc is also provided inside the filter tank below the filter screen. The diameter of the conical grinding disc increases downwards. A grinding space inside the tank is formed between the upper surface of the conical grinding disc and the inner wall of the grinding part, with the gap decreasing downwards. Grinding teeth are evenly distributed on the upper surface of the conical grinding disc and the inner wall of the grinding part. A discharge gap is formed between the bottom of the conical grinding disc and the inner wall of the vertical part, allowing particles and slurry to pass through. The size of the discharge gap is the maximum size of particles that can pass through.

[0019] Preferably, a drive mechanism is provided at the bottom of the filter tank, which extends upward into the filter tank and is connected to the conical grinding disc. The drive mechanism is used to drive the conical grinding disc to rotate in order to achieve the grinding effect.

[0020] Preferably, the drive mechanism includes a shaft, a driven gear, a drive motor, a drive gear, and connecting arms. The shaft is rotatably mounted on the bottom of the filter tank and extends vertically upwards into the filter tank. The drive motor is fixed at the bottom of the filter tank. The drive gear is fixed on the output shaft of the drive motor. The driven gear is fixedly mounted on the shaft and meshes with the drive gear. Connecting arms are evenly distributed on the lower surface of the conical grinding disc, and each connecting arm is connected to the shaft.

[0021] Preferably, the shaft consists of a round rod and a square rod. The round rod is rotatably mounted at the bottom of the filter tank and extends vertically upward into the filter tank. The driven gear is fixedly mounted on the round rod. The square rod is vertically fixed at the top of the round rod. The square rod has a vertically extending drive groove that passes through both sides. A threaded rod is rotatably mounted in the drive groove. A drive motor is fixed at the bottom of the round rod. The threaded rod extends vertically downward through the round rod and is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the drive motor. A nut seat is threadedly fitted on the threaded rod. A square sliding sleeve with a square cross-section is fitted on the outside of the square rod. Both ends of the nut seat are fixedly connected to the square sliding sleeve. The ends of each connecting arm are fixedly connected to the corresponding side of the square sliding sleeve.

[0022] Preferably, a cylindrical body is coaxially fixed at the bottom of the filter screen, and a conical grinding disc is tightly fitted onto the cylindrical body. The conical grinding disc can slide up and down along the surface of the cylindrical body and rotate around the cylindrical body. An annular groove is provided on the inner wall of the vertical part.

[0023] Preferably, a vertically extending connecting rod is fixed to the top of the square rod, and horizontally extending mounting holes are provided on both sides of the top of the connecting rod. Springs extending to the outside are installed on the inner end walls of the two mounting holes, and striking blocks are fixed to the outer ends of the two springs. A circular shell with its opening facing downward is fixed to the top of the filter screen, and the top of the connecting rod extends into the circular shell. Two pressing blocks are symmetrically fixed on the inner edge wall of the circular shell. The pressing blocks and the striking blocks press and abut against each other, and the contact surface between the pressing blocks and the striking blocks is in the shape of a rounded slope.

[0024] Preferably, electromagnets are embedded in the outer peripheral wall of the connecting rod at positions corresponding to the two striking blocks, and a mounting bracket is fixed at the bottom of the filter tank, with vertically extending support legs evenly distributed below the mounting bracket.

[0025] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows.

[0026] This invention designs the filter screen as an upwardly convex hemispherical shell, and sets up an in-tank grinding space below the filter screen, which is formed by a grinding section and a conical grinding disc. The large particles of nut residue that are filtered out fall along the upper surface of the filter screen into the in-tank grinding space, and the nut residue can be directly ground and refined. Compared with traditional technology, there is no need to transfer the filtered large particles of *Vernicia fordii* nut residue to a grinding equipment for further grinding, which reduces the number of operation steps and is conducive to improving the preparation efficiency.

[0027] The grinding space inside the tank of this invention is located below the filter screen within the filter tank, allowing grinding and filtration to proceed simultaneously. Therefore, when grinding large-particle nut residue, the slurry can continuously enter the grinding space inside the tank. Firstly, it can supplement the grinding liquid for the nut residue, improving the grinding effect. Secondly, it can mix the ground and refined nut powder particles and allow them to flow downwards through the discharge gaps for discharge, preventing the ground and refined nut powder particles from adhering to the grinding space inside the tank and being difficult to discharge completely. Thirdly, as the slurry continuously flows within the grinding space, it can impact the nut residue in the grinding space downwards to gradually grind and refine it, preventing some nut residue from remaining in the upper part of the grinding space and being unable to undergo normal grinding.

[0028] This invention uses a drive motor to drive a conical grinding disc downwards, increasing the distance between the conical grinding disc and the grinding section. Some of the nut residue particles that were stuck at the top are moved to the lower part of the grinding space inside the tank by the impact of the slurry. Then, the drive motor drives the conical grinding disc upwards, which works with the grinding section to press the nut residue particles together and then grinds them. This increases the grinding pressure and can thoroughly grind the hard nut residue particles that were stuck, avoiding residue residue.

[0029] This invention integrates the structure for driving the conical grinding disc to move up and down on the shaft, with some parts hidden inside the circular and square rods. Some structures overlap and are shared, making the structure more compact and avoiding excessive space occupation in the filter tank, which would affect the slurry flow. The square sliding sleeve and the square rod are designed with mutually compatible square cross-sections, so that the square sliding sleeve can rotate synchronously with the square rod, serving as a transmission component to drive the conical grinding disc to rotate, and can also slide along the square rod under the threaded drive of the threaded rod, serving as a limiting sliding guide component to drive the conical grinding disc to rise and fall. This achieves two goals at once, reducing the number of parts, simplifying the structure, and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0030] In this invention, as the connecting rod rotates following the square rod, the striking block and the pressing block come into contact. The arc-shaped contact surface of the pressing block pushes the striking block closer to the connecting rod, and the spring is compressed and stores energy. When the striking block separates from the pressing block, under the action of the spring's elastic restoring force and centrifugal force, the striking block is pushed away from the connecting rod and impacts the inner wall of the circular shell, generating a striking vibration. The vibration is transmitted to the filter screen, realizing the smooth passage of the vibrating material. The driving source of the striking vibration comes from the rotation of the square rod, eliminating the need for an additional drive and reducing the equipment's driving cost.

[0031] This invention adjusts the conical grinding disc downwards until its bottom aligns with the annular groove. By utilizing the space created by the annular groove, the distance between the inner wall of the vertical section and the bottom of the conical grinding disc can be increased, thus facilitating rinsing of the filter tank. The increased distance between the vertical section and the bottom of the conical grinding disc also helps flush out dirt.

[0032] The preparation method provided by this invention uses the residue of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernels after oil extraction as raw material for beverage preparation, thereby improving resource utilization. Through the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel beverage preparation method provided by this invention, the residue of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernels is transformed into a high-value-added beverage product through deep processing, reducing raw material waste. The residue of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernels after oil extraction is usually a free by-product. Using it as raw material can reduce the raw material cost of beverage production and improve overall economic benefits.

[0033] The preparation method provided by this invention can produce a delicate and nutritious Xanthoceras sorbifolium beverage product. It adopts a scientific raw material ratio and strict processing steps to ensure the quality and safety of the product. In addition, through aseptic filling technology, the product has a long shelf life, is easy to transport and store, and meets the needs of modern consumers for healthy drinks. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 A detailed flowchart of the preparation method provided by this invention;

[0035] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the overall structure of the preparation apparatus provided by the present invention;

[0036] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a partial external structure of the filter tank in this invention;

[0037] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure of the filter tank in this invention;

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a partial structure in this invention;

[0039] Figure 6 for Figure 5 Enlarged schematic diagram of the structure at point A in the middle;

[0040] Figure 7 This is a detailed structural diagram of the drive mechanism in this invention;

[0041] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a partial structure of the upper surface of the square rod in this invention;

[0042] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a partial structure inside the circular shell of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the top structure of the connecting rod in this invention;

[0044] Figure 11 A diagram illustrating the downward flow of the difficult-to-grind *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue;

[0045] Figure 12 A schematic diagram illustrating the process of compacting and grinding the difficult-to-grind *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue;

[0046] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the downward adjustment of the cone-shaped grinding disc for cleaning.

[0047] In the diagram: 01. Grinding space inside the tank; 02. Discharge gap; 1. Filter tank; 101. Outward protrusion; 11. Grinding section; 12. Vertical section; 121. Annular groove; 13. Inclined section; 14. Mounting bracket; 141. Support leg; 15. Discharge port; 2. Filter screen; 201. Mounting arm; 21. Cylindrical body; 3. Conical grinding disc; 4. Drive mechanism; 41. Shaft; 411. Circular rod; 412. Square rod; 42. Driven gear; 43. Drive motor; 44. Drive gear; 45. Connecting arm; 5. Drive groove; 6. Threaded rod; 61. Drive motor; 62. Nut seat; 63. Square sliding sleeve; 7. Connecting rod; 71. Mounting hole; 72. Spring; 73. Striking block; 74. Electromagnet; 8. Circular shell; 81. Extrusion block. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] In the description of the embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connection" and "installation" should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a detachable connection or a non-detachable connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "connection" can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. "Fixed" means that the devices are connected to each other and their relative positional relationship remains unchanged after the connection. The directional terms mentioned in the embodiments of the present invention, such as "inner," "outer," "top," and "bottom," are only for reference to the directions in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the directional terms used are for better and clearer explanation and understanding of the embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of the present invention.

[0050] In this embodiment of the invention, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" and "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0051] In this embodiment of the invention, "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0052] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as used in this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in one or more embodiments of the invention. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including, but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0053] like Figures 1-13 As shown, the present invention provides a method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage, comprising the following specific preparation steps:

[0054] Pretreatment: Wash the residue of *Vernicia fordii* kernels after pressing the oil three times with water at 60℃, then soak it in purified water at 70℃ for 72 hours. Stir three times every hour for 10 minutes each time during the soaking process. After that, test for cyanide. If it passes the test, it can be used for future use.

[0055] Preparation of raw materials: Prepare the following raw materials according to the following weight proportions: 1-6 parts of *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue, 3-6 parts of white sugar, 0.015-0.5 parts of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 0.01-0.2 parts of monoglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01-0.2 parts of diglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01-0.2 parts of xanthan gum, 0.01-0.2 parts of agar, and 87.7-96.3 parts of water;

[0056] Drying and grinding: The *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue is dried by far-infrared baking at 120-180℃ for 2-4 hours. The dried *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue and pure water at 35℃-40℃ are added into a grinder and ground in a ratio of 1:5 to obtain *Vernicia fordii* kernel slurry.

[0057] Slurry filtration: The *Vernicia fordii* beverage preparation device provided by this invention is used to filter the *Vernicia fordii* kernel slurry, and the filtered residue particles are ground to obtain fine *Vernicia fordii* kernel slurry;

[0058] Slurry preparation: Add water to the high-speed shearing machine, then add the fine slurry of *Vernicia fordii* kernels, white sugar, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, monoglyceride, diglyceride, xanthan gum, and agar, and shear and mix for 10 minutes;

[0059] Homogenization: The prepared beverage slurry is subjected to two high-pressure homogenization processes at 75-85℃, with a homogenization pressure of 20-50MPa, to obtain the beverage slurry;

[0060] Sterilization and cooling: The beverage slurry, which has been homogenized under high pressure, is subjected to high-temperature instantaneous sterilization at 140-150℃ for 6-10 seconds, and then immediately cooled.

[0061] Filling: The sterilized and cooled beverage slurry is filled using an aseptic filling machine. The beverage temperature is maintained at 17-25℃ during filling, and the filling capacity is 250g.

[0062] Example 1

[0063] After pressing the oil from the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue, wash it three times with water at 60°C, then soak it in purified water at 70°C for 72 hours, stirring three times per hour for 10 minutes each time. Afterward, test for cyanide; if qualified, it is ready for use. Take 3 kg of white sugar, 0.015 kg of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 0.01 kg of monoglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01 kg of diglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01 kg of xanthan gum, 0.01 kg of agar, 87.7 kg of water, and 1 kg of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue. Dry the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue at 140°C using far-infrared baking for 2 hours. Grind the dried *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue and purified water at 35°C in a 1:5 ratio in a grinder to obtain *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel pulp. Then, use the method provided by this invention... The *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* beverage preparation device filters *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry and grinds the filtered residue to obtain fine *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry. Water is added to a high-speed shearing machine, followed by the fine *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry, white sugar, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, monoglyceride, diglyceride, xanthan gum, and agar. The mixture is sheared and mixed for 10 minutes. The prepared beverage slurry is then subjected to two high-pressure homogenization processes at 75°C, with the first homogenization pressure at 25 MPa and the second at 40 MPa, to obtain the beverage slurry. The homogenized beverage slurry is then subjected to high-temperature instantaneous sterilization at 140°C for 8 seconds, followed by immediate cooling. Finally, it is filled using an aseptic filling machine, maintaining the beverage temperature at 20°C during filling, with a filling capacity of 250g.

[0064] Example 2

[0065] After pressing the oil from the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue, wash it three times with water at 60℃, then soak it in purified water at 70℃ for 72 hours, stirring three times per hour for 10 minutes each time. Afterward, test for cyanide; if qualified, it is ready for use. Take 3 kg of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue, 5 kg of white sugar, 0.1 kg of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 0.1 kg of monoglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.1 kg of diglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.1 kg of xanthan gum, 0.1 kg of agar, and 93 kg of water. Dry the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue at 160℃ using far-infrared baking for 3 hours. Grind the dried *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue and purified water at 35℃ in a 1:5 ratio in a grinder to obtain *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel pulp. Then, use the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* beverage provided by this invention... The preparation device filters the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry and grinds the filtered residue to obtain a fine *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry. Water is added to a high-speed shearing machine, followed by the fine *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry, white sugar, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, monoglyceride, diglyceride, xanthan gum, and agar. The mixture is sheared and mixed for 10 minutes. The prepared beverage slurry is then subjected to two high-pressure homogenization processes at 78°C. The first homogenization pressure is 20 MPa, and the second homogenization pressure is 40 MPa, resulting in the beverage slurry. The homogenized beverage slurry is then subjected to high-temperature instantaneous sterilization at 145°C for 8 seconds, followed by immediate cooling. Finally, it is filled using an aseptic filling machine, maintaining the beverage temperature at 23°C during filling, with a filling capacity of 250g.

[0066] Example 3

[0067] After pressing the oil from the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue, wash it three times with water at 60℃, then soak it in purified water at 70℃ for 72 hours, stirring three times per hour for 10 minutes each time. Afterward, test for cyanide; if qualified, it is ready for use. Take 6 kg of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernels, 6 kg of white sugar, 0.5 kg of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 0.2 kg of monoglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.2 kg of diglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.2 kg of xanthan gum, 0.2 kg of agar, and 96.3 kg of water. Dry the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue at 170℃ using far-infrared baking for 4 hours. Grind the dried *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue and purified water at 35℃ in a 1:5 ratio in a grinder to obtain *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry. Then, use the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* beverage provided by this invention... The preparation device filters the *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry and grinds the filtered residue to obtain a fine *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry. Water is added to a high-speed shearing machine, followed by the fine *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry, white sugar, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, monoglyceride, diglyceride, xanthan gum, and agar. The mixture is sheared and mixed for 10 minutes. The prepared beverage slurry is then subjected to two high-pressure homogenization processes at 80°C, with the first homogenization pressure at 20 MPa and the second at 50 MPa, to obtain the beverage slurry. The homogenized beverage slurry is then subjected to high-temperature instantaneous sterilization at 150°C for 10 seconds, followed by immediate cooling. Finally, it is filled using an aseptic filling machine, maintaining the beverage temperature at 25°C during filling, with a filling capacity of 250g.

[0068] The beverage prepared in Example 1 is light yellow, highly transparent, free of sediment and suspended matter, has a delicate taste, moderate sweetness, and a unique aroma of *Sapindus mukorossi*. After 30 days of storage at room temperature, the beverage showed no separation and good stability.

[0069] The beverage prepared in Example 2 is golden yellow, highly transparent, free of sediment and suspended matter, has a delicate taste, high sweetness, and a rich aroma of *Sapindus mukorossi*. After 45 days of storage at room temperature, the beverage showed no separation and good stability.

[0070] The beverage prepared in Example 3 is deep yellow, highly transparent, free of sediment and suspended matter, has a delicate taste, a slightly sweet taste, and a rich aroma of *Sapindus mukorossi*. After 60 days of storage at room temperature, the beverage showed no separation and good stability.

[0071] Through the above three embodiments, it can be seen that the method for preparing *Vernicia fordii* nut beverages provided by this invention can produce beverage products with a delicate taste and rich nutrition under different raw material ratios. Specifically, Embodiments 1, 2, and 3 respectively demonstrate products with different sweetness levels and color intensities, meeting the needs of different consumers. Furthermore, this method employs scientific raw material ratios and strict processing steps to ensure product quality and safety. Through aseptic filling technology, the product has a long shelf life, is easy to transport and store, and meets the modern consumer demand for healthy beverages.

[0072] Please see Figures 2-13 The present invention also provides a preparation device for Xanthoceras sorbifolium beverage. The device includes a filter tank 1 with a feeding port at the top and a discharge port 15 on one side of the bottom. Xanthoceras sorbifolium kernel slurry is fed into the filter tank 1 through the feeding port at the top. After filtration and grinding, the slurry is discharged through the discharge port 15. A hemispherical filter screen 2 is installed inside the filter tank 1 through a mounting arm 201. The filter screen 2 is convex upward with a diameter that increases downward. The mounting arm 201 is fixed to the inner wall of the filter tank 1. The filter screen 2 is installed on the end of the mounting arm 201. Filter holes are evenly distributed on the filter screen 2.

[0073] Inside the filter tank 1, below the filter screen 2, there is an internal grinding space 01. The top of the internal grinding space 01 is connected to the bottom of the filter screen 2, and the bottom of the internal grinding space 01 is connected to the inner wall of the filter tank 1. The internal grinding space 01 is used to re-grind and crush the large particles of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue that have been filtered out. There is a gap between the bottom of the filter screen 2 and the inner wall of the filter tank 1 for the large particles of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue to enter the internal grinding space 01.

[0074] The *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel slurry added to the filter tank 1 falls onto the filter screen 2. Slurry with a composite particle size flows downward through the filter mesh of the filter screen 2, while large particles of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue are filtered out on the filter screen 2. Because the filter screen 2 is convex upward, the filtered large particles of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue will fall downward along the upper surface of the filter screen 2 into the grinding space 01 inside the tank. The large particles of *Xanthoceras sorbifolium* kernel residue can be directly ground and refined in the grinding space 01 inside the tank.

[0075] Specifically, the side wall of the filter tank 1 near the grinding space 01 inside the tank has an outward protrusion 101. From top to bottom, the outward protrusion 101 consists of a grinding section 11, a vertical section 12, and an inclined section 13. The diameter of the grinding section 11 increases downwards, while the diameter of the inclined section 13 decreases downwards. Inside the filter tank 1, below the filter screen 2, there is also a conical grinding disc 3. The diameter of the conical grinding disc 3 increases downwards. The upper surface of the conical grinding disc 3 and the inner wall of the grinding section 11 form a grinding space 01 inside the tank with a gap that decreases downwards. This ensures that the space inside the grinding space 01 is gradually ground into finer particles.

[0076] Grinding teeth (not shown in the figure) are evenly distributed on the upper surface of the conical grinding disc 3 and the inner wall of the grinding part 11. A discharge gap 02 is formed between the bottom end of the conical grinding disc 3 and the inner wall of the vertical part 12 to allow particles and slurry to pass through. The size of the discharge gap 02 is the maximum size of particles that can pass through. Therefore, large particles of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue can only pass through the discharge gap 02 when they are thoroughly ground until they meet the passing size.

[0077] A drive mechanism 4 is provided at the bottom of the filter tank 1. The drive mechanism 4 extends upward into the filter tank 1 and is connected to the conical grinding disc 3. The drive mechanism 4 is used to drive the conical grinding disc 3 to rotate. The grinding part 11 and the conical grinding disc 3 form a grinding space 01 inside the tank. After large particles of *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue enter the grinding space 01 inside the tank, the drive mechanism 4 works to drive the conical grinding disc 3 to rotate, which can grind and refine the kernel residue in the grinding space 01 inside the tank.

[0078] The present invention designs the filter screen 2 as an upwardly convex hemispherical shell, and sets an in-tank grinding space 01 formed by the grinding part 11 and the conical grinding disc 3 below the filter screen 2. The large particles of nut residue that are filtered out fall into the in-tank grinding space 01 along the upper surface of the filter screen 2, and the nut residue can be directly ground and refined. Compared with the traditional technology, there is no need to transfer the filtered large particles of *Vernicia fordii* nut residue to the grinding equipment for further grinding, which reduces the number of operation steps and is conducive to improving the preparation efficiency.

[0079] Secondly, the grinding space 01 inside the tank is located below the filter screen 2 inside the filter tank 1, and grinding and filtration are carried out simultaneously. Therefore, when grinding large-particle nut residue, the slurry can continuously enter the grinding space 01 inside the tank. Firstly, it can be used as a supplement to the grinding liquid of the nut residue, improving the grinding effect of the nut residue. Secondly, it can mix the ground and refined nut powder particles and flow down through the discharge gap 02 for discharge, avoiding the ground and refined nut powder particles from adhering to the grinding space 01 inside the tank and being difficult to discharge. Thirdly, as the slurry continuously flows in the grinding space 01 inside the tank, it can impact the nut residue in the grinding space 01 inside the tank downwards to gradually grind and refine it, avoiding some nut residue from remaining in the upper part of the grinding space 01 inside the tank and being unable to be ground normally.

[0080] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the drive mechanism 4 includes a shaft 41, a driven gear 42, a drive motor 43, a drive gear 44, and connecting arms 45. The shaft 41 is rotatably mounted on the bottom of the filter tank 1 and extends vertically upward into the filter tank 1. The drive motor 43 is fixed at the bottom of the filter tank 1. The drive gear 44 is fixed on the output shaft of the drive motor 43. The driven gear 42 is fixedly mounted on the shaft 41 and meshes with the drive gear 44. Connecting arms 45 are evenly distributed on the lower surface of the conical grinding disc 3. Each connecting arm 45 is connected to the shaft 41. When the drive motor 43 works, its output shaft drives the shaft 41 to rotate under the meshing transmission of the drive gear 44 and the driven gear 42. Under the connecting action of the connecting arms 45, the conical grinding disc 3 is driven to rotate, providing drive for the rotation and grinding of the conical grinding disc 3.

[0081] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, the shaft 41 consists of a circular rod 411 and a square rod 412. The circular rod 411 is rotatably mounted on the bottom of the filter tank 1 and extends vertically upward into the filter tank 1. The driven gear 42 is fixedly mounted on the circular rod 411. The square rod 412 is vertically fixed on the top of the circular rod 411. The square rod 412 is provided with a vertically extending drive groove 5 that passes through both sides. A threaded rod 6 is rotatably mounted in the drive groove 5. A drive motor 61 is fixed on the bottom end of the circular rod 411. The threaded rod 6 extends vertically downward. The threaded rod 6 extends below the circular rod 411 and is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the drive motor 61. A nut seat 62 is threadedly fitted onto the threaded rod 6. A square sliding sleeve 63 with a square cross-section is fitted onto the outside of the square rod 412. The square sliding sleeve 63 can only slide up and down along the square rod 412 and cannot rotate relative to the square rod 412. Both ends of the nut seat 62 are fixedly connected to the square sliding sleeve 63. The ends of each connecting arm 45 are fixedly connected to the corresponding side of the square sliding sleeve 63.

[0082] The drive motor 61 operates, and its output shaft drives the threaded rod 6 to rotate. The threaded rod 6 can drive the nut seat 62 and drive the square sliding sleeve 63 to move up and down. Under the connection of the connecting arm 45, it drives the conical grinding disc 3 to move up and down synchronously, realizing the upward and downward adjustment of the conical grinding disc 3.

[0083] The structure used to drive the conical grinding disc 3 to adjust its up and down movement is integrated on the shaft 41, and part of it is hidden inside the circular rod 411 and the square rod 412. Some of the structures overlap and are shared, making the structure more compact and avoiding occupying excessive space in the filter tank 1, which would affect the flow of slurry. The cross-sections of the square sliding sleeve 63 and the square rod 412 are designed to be mutually compatible squares, so that the square sliding sleeve 63 can rotate synchronously with the square rod 412, serving as a transmission component to drive the conical grinding disc 3 to rotate, and can also slide along the square rod 412 under the threaded drive of the threaded rod 6, serving as a limiting sliding guide component to drive the conical grinding disc 3 to rise and fall. This achieves two goals at once, reducing the number of parts, simplifying the structure, and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0084] Even under the impact of the slurry, some hard nut residue particles will still remain in the upper part of the grinding space 01 inside the tank and cannot be effectively ground. This invention uses a drive motor 61 to drive the conical grinding disc 3 downwards, as... Figure 11 As shown in the figure, the solid arrow indicates the downward direction of the conical grinding disc 3, and the dashed arrow indicates the direction of movement of the retained residue particles. After the conical grinding disc 3 is adjusted downward, the distance between it and the grinding section 11 increases. Some of the nut residue particles retained above move to the lower part of the grinding space 01 inside the tank under the impact of the slurry. Then, the conical grinding disc 3 is driven upward by the drive motor 61. Figure 12 As shown in the figure, the arrow indicates the upward direction of the conical grinding disc 3. The upward conical grinding disc 3 cooperates with the grinding part 11 to press the nut residue particles together and then grind them, increasing the grinding pressure. This can grind the hard nut residue particles that are stuck in the ground into fine particles and avoid residue particles remaining.

[0085] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, a cylindrical body 21 is coaxially fixed at the bottom of the filter screen 2, and a conical grinding disc 3 is tightly fitted onto the cylindrical body 21. The conical grinding disc 3 can slide up and down along the surface of the cylindrical body 21 and rotate around the cylindrical body 21. The cylindrical body 21 serves as an extension of the bottom of the filter screen 2, and the conical grinding disc 3 is tightly fitted onto the cylindrical body 21. The cylindrical body 21 acts as a flow barrier when the conical grinding disc 3 is raised and lowered, preventing gaps between the conical grinding disc 3 and the bottom of the filter screen 2 from causing large particles of slag to be directly discharged.

[0086] In addition, an annular groove 121 is provided on the inner wall of the vertical part 12. Due to long-term filtration, slurry will accumulate inside the filter tank 1, forming dirt. This can be addressed by adjusting the conical grinding disc 3 downwards until the bottom of the conical grinding disc 3 corresponds to the position of the annular groove 121. Figure 13 As shown in the figure, the arrow indicates the downward direction of the conical grinding disc 3. The annular groove 121 provides space on the outside, which increases the distance between the inner wall of the vertical part 12 and the bottom of the conical grinding disc 3, thus facilitating the rinsing of the filter tank 1. The increased distance between the vertical part 12 and the bottom of the conical grinding disc 3 is conducive to the passage of rinsing dirt.

[0087] like Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a vertically extending connecting rod 7 is fixed to the top of the square rod 412. Horizontally extending mounting holes 71 are provided on both sides of the top of the connecting rod 7. Springs 72 extending to the outside are installed on the inner end walls of both mounting holes 71. A striking block 73 is fixed to the outer end of each of the two springs 72. A circular shell 8 with its opening facing downwards is fixed to the top of the filter screen 2. The top of the connecting rod 7 extends into the circular shell 8. Two pressing blocks 81 are symmetrically fixed on the inner edge wall of the circular shell 8. The pressing blocks 81 and the striking blocks 73 are pressed and abutted together. The contact surfaces of the pressing blocks 81 and the striking blocks 73 are in the shape of a rounded slope.

[0088] When the conical grinding disc 3 rotates for grinding, the connecting rod 7 rotates synchronously with the square rod 412, which in turn drives the striking block 73 to swing. During the swinging process, the striking block 73 comes into contact with the pressing block 81. The arc-shaped contact surface of the pressing block 81 will squeeze and push the striking block 73 to gradually move closer to the connecting rod 7. The spring 72 is compressed and stores energy. When the striking block 73 separates from the pressing block 81, under the action of the elastic restoring force of the spring 72 and the centrifugal force, the striking block 73 is pushed away from the connecting rod 7 and hits the inner wall of the circular shell 8 to generate a striking vibration. The vibration is transmitted to the filter screen 2, which can shake off the residue attached to or retained on the upper surface of the filter screen 2 into the grinding space 01 inside the tank, ensuring the thoroughness of grinding. The driving source of the striking vibration comes from the rotation of the square rod 412, which eliminates the need for additional drive and reduces the equipment driving cost.

[0089] In addition, electromagnets 74 are respectively embedded on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting rod 7 at the positions corresponding to the two striking blocks 73. The striking blocks 73 are magnetic metal products. When the electromagnets 74 are energized and generate magnetic attraction, the striking blocks 73 can be attracted to the side of the connecting rod 7, so that the striking vibration can be canceled when the filter screen 2 does not need to vibrate.

[0090] like Figure 2As shown, a mounting bracket 14 is fixed at the bottom of the filter tank 1. Vertically extending support legs 141 are evenly distributed below the mounting bracket 14. The support legs 141 and the mounting bracket 14 are used to support and raise the filter tank 1 as a whole, which can make room for the arrangement of the drive mechanism 4.

[0091] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the exemplary embodiments described above, and that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage, characterized in that: The specific preparation steps include the following: Pretreatment; material preparation; drying and grinding; slurry filtration; slurry preparation; homogenization; sterilization and cooling; filling; The raw materials are prepared according to the following weight proportions: 1-6 parts of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue, 3-6 parts of white sugar, 0.015-0.5 parts of sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, 0.01-0.2 parts of monoglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01-0.2 parts of diglyceride fatty acid ester, 0.01-0.2 parts of xanthan gum, 0.01-0.2 parts of agar, and 87.7-96.3 parts of water; The slurry filtration step is as follows: the *Vernicia fordii* slurry is filtered using a *Vernicia fordii* beverage preparation device, and the filtered residue is ground to obtain fine *Vernicia fordii* slurry. The Sinapis alba beverage preparation device includes a filter tank (1) with an inlet at the top and a discharge outlet (15) on one side of the bottom. The filter tank (1) is equipped with a hemispherical filter screen (2) installed inside by the mounting arm (201), and the filter screen (2) is convex upward with the diameter increasing downward. The filter tank (1) is provided with an internal grinding space (01) located below the filter screen (2). The top of the internal grinding space (01) is connected to the bottom of the filter screen (2), and the bottom of the internal grinding space (01) is connected to the inner wall of the filter tank (1). The internal grinding space (01) is used to re-grind and crush the large particles of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue that have been filtered out. There is a gap between the bottom end of the filter screen (2) and the inner wall of the filter tank (1) for large particles of *Sapindus mukorossi* kernel residue to enter the grinding space (01) inside the tank; The side wall of the filter tank (1) near the grinding space (01) inside the tank is a convex section (101), and the convex section (101) consists of a grinding part (11), a vertical part (12) and an inclined part (13) from top to bottom. The diameter of the grinding part (11) increases as it goes downwards, and the diameter of the inclined part (13) decreases as it goes downwards; Inside the filter tank (1), below the filter screen (2), there is also a conical grinding disc (3), the diameter of the conical grinding disc (3) increases as it goes down; The upper surface of the conical grinding disc (3) and the inner wall of the grinding part (11) form a grinding space (01) that decreases in size as it goes down. Grinding teeth are evenly distributed on the upper surface of the conical grinding disc (3) and the inner wall of the grinding part (11). A discharge gap (02) is formed between the bottom end of the conical grinding disc (3) and the inner wall of the vertical part (12) for particles and slurry to pass through. The size of the discharge gap (02) is the maximum size of the particles that can pass through.

2. The method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pretreatment steps are as follows: the residue of *Vernicia fordii* kernels after pressing the pulp to extract oil is washed three times with water at 60℃, and then soaked in purified water at 70℃ for 72 hours. During the soaking process, it is stirred 3 times per hour for 10 minutes each time. After that, the cyanide content is tested and the residue is qualified for use. The specific steps of drying and grinding are as follows: the *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue is dried by far-infrared baking at a temperature of 120-180℃ for 2-4 hours, and the dried *Vernicia fordii* kernel residue and pure water at 35℃-40℃ are put into a grinder and ground in a ratio of 1:5 to obtain *Vernicia fordii* kernel slurry. The specific steps for preparing the slurry are as follows: add water to the high-speed shearing machine, then add the fine slurry of *Vernicia fordii* kernels, white sugar, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, monoglyceride, diglyceride, xanthan gum, and agar, and shear and mix for 10 minutes; The homogenization step is as follows: the prepared beverage slurry is subjected to two high-pressure homogenization processes at 75-85℃, with a homogenization pressure of 20-50MPa, to obtain the beverage slurry; The sterilization and cooling steps are as follows: the beverage slurry that has been homogenized under high pressure is subjected to high-temperature instantaneous sterilization at 140-150℃ for 6-10 seconds, and then immediately cooled. The specific filling steps are as follows: the sterilized and cooled beverage slurry is filled using an aseptic filling machine. The beverage temperature is maintained at 17-25℃ during filling, and the filling capacity is 250g.

3. The method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bottom of the filter tank (1) is provided with a drive mechanism (4), which extends upward into the filter tank (1) and is connected to the conical grinding disc (3). The drive mechanism (4) is used to drive the conical grinding disc (3) to rotate in order to achieve the grinding effect.

4. The method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage according to claim 3, characterized in that: The drive mechanism (4) includes a shaft (41), a driven gear (42), a drive motor (43), a drive gear (44), and a connecting arm (45). The shaft (41) is rotatably mounted on the bottom of the filter tank (1) and extends vertically upwards into the filter tank (1); The drive motor (43) is fixed at the bottom of the filter tank (1), and the drive gear (44) is fixed on the output shaft of the drive motor (43); The driven gear (42) is fixedly mounted on the shaft (41) and meshes with the drive gear (44); The connecting arms (45) are evenly distributed on the lower surface of the conical grinding disc (3), and each connecting arm (45) is connected to the shaft (41).

5. A method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage according to claim 4, characterized in that: The shaft (41) is composed of a round rod (411) and a square rod (412); The circular rod (411) is rotatably mounted on the bottom of the filter tank (1) and extends vertically upward into the filter tank (1). The driven gear (42) is fixedly mounted on the circular rod (411), and the square rod (412) is vertically fixed on the top of the circular rod (411). The square rod (412) is provided with a vertically extending drive groove (5) that passes through both sides, and a threaded rod (6) is rotatably installed in the drive groove (5). A drive motor (61) is fixed at the bottom end of the circular rod (411), and the threaded rod (6) extends vertically downward to the bottom of the circular rod (411) and is fixedly connected to the output shaft of the drive motor (61). The threaded rod (6) is fitted with a nut seat (62) that matches the thread. The square rod (412) is fitted with a square sliding sleeve (63) with a square cross section on the outside. Both ends of the nut seat (62) are fixedly connected to the square sliding sleeve (63). The ends of each of the connecting arms (45) are fixedly connected to the corresponding side of the square sliding sleeve (63).

6. The method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage according to claim 1, characterized in that: The bottom end of the filter screen (2) is coaxially fixed with a cylindrical body (21), and the conical grinding disc (3) is tightly fitted onto the cylindrical body (21). The conical grinding disc (3) can slide up and down along the surface of the cylindrical body (21) and can also rotate around the cylindrical body (21). The vertical part (12) has an annular groove (121) on its inner wall.

7. A method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage according to claim 5, characterized in that: The top of the square rod (412) is fixed with a vertically upward extending connecting rod (7). The top two sides of the connecting rod (7) are respectively provided with horizontally extending mounting holes (71). Springs (72) extending to the outside are installed on the inner end walls of the two mounting holes (71). Both springs (72) have a striking block (73) fixed to their outer ends; The top of the filter screen (2) is fixed with a circular shell (8) facing downwards, and the top of the connecting rod (7) extends into the circular shell (8); Two extrusion blocks (81) are symmetrically fixed on the inner edge wall of the circular shell (8), and the extrusion blocks (81) and the striking blocks (73) are in extrusion and contact cooperation; The contact surfaces of the pressing block (81) and the striking block (73) are in the shape of a rounded slope.

8. A method for preparing a *Sapindus mukorossi* beverage according to claim 7, characterized in that: Electromagnets (74) are respectively embedded on the outer peripheral wall of the connecting rod (7) at positions corresponding to the two striking blocks (73). The bottom of the filter tank (1) is fixed with a mounting bracket (14), and vertically upward-extending support legs (141) are evenly distributed below the mounting bracket (14).

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