An automatic demoulding and packaging system and method for hot pot base

Abstract

The present invention relates to the technical field of packaging, and discloses an automatic demolding and packaging system and method for hot pot base materials. The demolding and packaging system includes a demolding module, and the demolding module includes a first power unit; a first sprocket transmission unit, and the first sprocket transmission unit is connected to the first power unit; a limiting unit, and the limiting unit is fixed on the chain of the first sprocket transmission unit; a mold support unit, and the mold support unit is arranged corresponding to the limiting unit. Each group of mold support units includes a pair of oppositely arranged mold support mechanisms; a mold support track, and there are two groups of mold support tracks, and the two groups of mold support tracks are arranged oppositely. The upper part of the mold support track has a first arc section, and each mold support mechanism of each group of mold support units is respectively slidably arranged on the two groups of mold support tracks. Through the present invention, a progressive opening action of the mold support mechanism at a preset position can be realized, so that the side wall of the box body is opened to both sides, the side wall of the box body is separated from the product, and the product is separated from the box body under the action of its own gravity, realizing automatic demolding of the product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of packaging, and in particular to an automatic demoulding packaging system and method for hot pot base. Background Art

[0002] In the industrial production process of hot pot soup base, after the solid soup base is condensed and formed at high temperature in the mold box, it is necessary to perform demoulding and transfer the formed block soup base to the packaging bag for sealing and packaging. In the traditional production process, the demoulding process mainly relies on manual operation. The high-temperature mold box is manually inverted and knocked, and the soup base is separated from the box body by physical vibration. Then, the demoulding soup base is clamped to the packaging station using tools. However, the efficiency of manual demoulding is limited by the worker's operating speed, resulting in high labor intensity and low demoulding efficiency for the workers, which cannot meet the large-scale production needs of the modern food industry. In order to solve the above technical problems, the prior art has a technology that relies on heating to separate the hot pot soup base from the box body, such as the demoulding production line disclosed in the patent document with the publication number CN111439562A, which heats the surface of the hot pot soup base to melt so that it is separated from the box body. However, the use of heating to separate the hot pot soup base from the box body requires precise control of the heating temperature and heating area, otherwise it will cause the hot pot soup base to melt over a large area, which is difficult to control. Summary of the invention

[0003] Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned shortcomings, the present invention provides a hot pot soup base automatic demoulding packaging system and method to achieve automatic demoulding of the hot pot soup base.

[0004] On the one hand, the present invention provides an automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot soup base, comprising a demoulding module, the demoulding module receives a box body grabbed by a transfer module from a first conveying module, the transfer module drives the box body to flip 180 degrees after grabbing the box body, the demoulding module drives the box body to move, when moving to a preset position, the side walls of the box body are spread to both sides, so that the product is separated from the box body and falls to a third conveying module, the product is driven to move to a product packaging device through the third conveying module, the box body is retained on the demoulding module and continues to move to the end of the demoulding module, falls onto the second conveying module, and the box body is driven to move to a cleaning system through the second conveying module;

[0005] The demoulding module includes:

[0006] A first power unit;

[0007] A first sprocket transmission unit, the first sprocket transmission unit is connected to the first power unit, and the first sprocket transmission unit is driven to move by the first power unit;

[0008] A limiting unit, which is fixed on the chain of the first sprocket transmission unit and is arranged equidistantly along the moving direction of the chain, and defines the opening of the accommodating box body;

[0009] A mold support unit is provided with an array. The mold support unit is arranged corresponding to a limit unit. Each group of the mold support units includes a pair of oppositely arranged mold support mechanisms. The mold support mechanisms are in contact with the inner side wall of the mouth of the box body. The mold support mechanisms are connected to a chain through a telescopic mechanism.

[0010] There are two groups of mold support tracks. The two groups of mold support tracks are oppositely arranged. The upper part of the mold support track has a first arc section bent along the direction of the box body being opened. Each mold support mechanism of each group of mold support units is respectively slidably arranged on the two groups of mold support tracks. The mold support mechanism moves along the mold support track with the movement of the chain.

[0011] The mold support mechanism includes:

[0012] A first sliding connection part, which is slidably connected to the mold support track. The movement of the chain drives the first sliding connection part to move along the mold support track.

[0013] A mold support block, the whole of which is L-shaped. One end of the mold support block is connected to the first sliding connection part.

[0014] Through the present invention, the whole process automation of box body grasping, flipping, mold support, blanking, and recycling is realized, improving production efficiency. Through the sliding cooperation between the L-shaped mold support block and the first arc section of the mold support track, during the chain drive process, the mold support track can guide the movement of the sliding connection part, realizing the progressive opening action of the mold support mechanism at a preset position. By applying an expansion force to the side wall of the mold box through the L-shaped mold support block, the side wall of the box body is opened to both sides, and the side wall of the box body is separated from the product. The product falls off the box body under its own gravity, realizing the automatic demolding of the product. At the same time, by arranging multiple groups of mold support mechanisms along the movement direction of the chain, the packaging efficiency is improved.

[0015] Furthermore, the limit unit includes:

[0016] Two groups of first limit plates, the two groups of first limit plates are oppositely arranged and fixed to the chain.

[0017] Four groups of second limit plates, every two groups of the second limit plates are fixed on one group of the first limit plates, and the four groups of second limit plates are oppositely arranged.

[0018] A limit groove for limiting and accommodating the mouth of the box body is formed between the four groups of second limit plates and the two groups of first limit plates. A blanking port for the product to fall is provided in the middle of the limit groove.

[0019] The limiting slots formed by the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate constitute a double constraint, thereby ensuring that the box body is maintained at a preset position, improving the positioning accuracy of the box body. The blanking port in the middle of the limiting slot provides a vertical falling channel for the product, facilitating the discharge of the product out of the box body.

[0020] Further, a first waist-shaped hole is provided at the connection between the first limiting plate and the chain, and a second waist-shaped hole is provided at the connection between the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate;

[0021] The mold support mechanism further includes a connecting rod, which is fixed to the first sliding connection part. Third waist-shaped holes are provided at both ends of the connecting rod. One end of the mold support block is provided with a threaded rod, which passes through the third waist-shaped hole. Through two groups of nuts threadedly engaged on the threaded rod, the connecting rod is clamped inside to keep the mold support block fixed to the connecting rod.

[0022] Through the first waist-shaped hole at the connection between the first limiting plate and the chain and the second waist-shaped hole at the connection between the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate, the position adjustment of the limiting unit in the horizontal and vertical directions can be realized. The mold support block and the connecting rod adopt a double-nut locking structure with the third waist-shaped hole and the threaded rod, so that the horizontal position and the extended length of the mold support block can be flexibly adjusted according to the internal contour of the box body. Thus, the size of the limiting slot and the position of the mold support block can be adjusted according to the specifications of the box body, improving the practical flexibility of the system.

[0023] Further, the demoulding and packaging system further includes a pressing mold module, which is arranged above the demoulding module corresponding to the mold support track. The pressing mold module presses the bottom of the box body to eject the product.

[0024] Further, the pressing mold module includes:

[0025] A second power unit;

[0026] A second sprocket transmission unit, which is connected to the second power unit and is driven by the second power unit to move along a direction parallel to the movement direction of the first sprocket transmission unit;

[0027] A pressing unit, which is connected to the chain of the second sprocket transmission unit. The pressing unit includes a pressing rod;

[0028] A pressing track, the pressing rod is slidably fitted on the pressing track. When the second sprocket transmission unit moves, the pressing rod moves along the pressing track. The pressing track includes a top mold track, and the lower part of the top mold track is provided with a third arc section bent vertically downward corresponding to the first arc section of the mold support track.

[0029] The lateral expansion of the box side wall by the support module is guided by the first arc segment of the support die track, separating the side of the product from the box side wall. The third arc segment of the pressing track guides the pressing rod to lower its height, thereby applying a vertical pressing force to the bottom of the box and improving the demoulding effect of the product.

[0030] Further, the pressing unit further includes an extrusion rod, which is relatively arranged on both sides of the pressing rod. An L-shaped groove matching the edge of the box bottom is provided at the end of the extrusion rod.

[0031] The pressing die module further includes an extrusion track corresponding to the extrusion rod. The end of the extrusion rod away from the L-shaped groove is in sliding fit with the extrusion track. A second arc segment bent in the direction opposite to the opening direction of the box side wall is provided at the lower part of the extrusion track corresponding to the third arc segment.

[0032] Guided by the curvature track of the second arc segment of the extrusion track opposite to that of the first arc segment of the support die track, the extrusion rod is tightened inward against the edge of the box bottom. Cooperating with the outward expansion of the box side wall by the support module, the demoulding resistance is reduced. By the inward extrusion of the extrusion rod and the downward pressing of the box bottom by the pressing rod, the box bottom contracts inward while the box bottom sinks downward, thereby forming a downward driving force on the bottom of the product, which can push the product downward, thus improving the separation efficiency of the product from the box.

[0033] Further, the pressing unit further includes a connecting plate. The extrusion rod and the pressing rod are both installed on the connecting plate. The connecting plate is connected to the chain of the second sprocket drive unit. A chute extending in the direction parallel to the opening direction of the box side wall is provided at the connection between the connecting plate and the extrusion rod. The extrusion rod is inserted into the chute. A sliding sleeve is also fixed on the connecting plate. The pressing rod is inserted into the sliding sleeve and is in sliding fit with the sliding sleeve.

[0034] The connection between the extrusion rod, the pressing rod and the second sprocket drive mechanism is realized through the connecting plate, so as to realize the synchronous movement of the extrusion rod and the pressing rod when the second sprocket mechanism moves. By setting the chute and the sliding sleeve, while not interfering with the horizontal linear movement of the extrusion rod perpendicular to the movement direction of the chain or the vertical linear movement of the pressing rod, the movement of the extrusion rod or the pressing rod can be restricted, improving the movement accuracy of the extrusion rod and the pressing rod.

[0035] Further, the pressing die module further includes:

[0036] An adjusting part, which is fixed on the extrusion track;

[0037] A lead screw, which is in threaded fit with the adjusting part.

[0038] By the threaded fit between the lead screw and the adjusting part, the position of the extrusion track can be adjusted.

[0039] Further, the demoulding and packaging system further includes a lifting module, which is arranged between the demoulding module and the mould pressing module, and drives the mould pressing module to move linearly in the vertical direction through the lifting module;

[0040] The lifting module includes:

[0041] An installation part, which is fixed on the side of the demoulding module, and a second guide groove is opened on the installation part;

[0042] A third power unit, which is installed on the installation part;

[0043] A sliding plate, which is connected to the third power unit, and pulleys arranged in the second guide groove are installed on the sliding plate;

[0044] A cross-linking rod structure, the bottom parts of which are respectively pivotally connected to the installation part and the sliding plate;

[0045] A lifting part, which is fixedly connected to the mould pressing module, and a first guide groove is opened on the lifting part. A pulley matched with the first guide groove is arranged at the top of the cross-linking rod structure.

[0046] The mould pressing module is driven by the lifting module to move vertically up and down, so as to realize the height adjustment of the mould pressing module.

[0047] On the other hand, the present invention also provides an automatic demoulding and packaging method for hot pot base materials. This demoulding and packaging method uses the above-mentioned automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base materials. The demoulding and packaging method includes:

[0048] The first conveying module drives the box body to move towards the grasping position, and the box body contains a product that is cooled from a self-flowing state to a solid state;

[0049] The grasping module grasps the box body that has moved to the grasping position and drives the box body to move towards the demoulding module. During this process, the box body is turned 180°;

[0050] The demoulding module continues to drive the box body to move towards the demoulding channel. The product in the box body is separated from the box body under the combined action of the demoulding module and the mould pressing module in the demoulding channel;

[0051] The separated product slides from the blanking port of the limiting groove onto the third conveying module, and the product is conveyed to the packaging equipment by the third conveying module for product packaging;

[0052] The demoulded box body continues to stay in the limiting groove and continues to move along the movement direction of the chain of the first sprocket transmission mechanism, and falls from the end of the demoulding module onto the second conveying module, and the box body is driven by the second conveying module to be conveyed to the cleaning system;

[0053] The product inside the box is in the demolding channel and is separated from the box under the combined action of the demolding module and the pressing die module, which includes:

[0054] The supporting module enters from one end of the first arc section of the self-supporting die track and continuously moves along the first arc section. The distance between the two groups of supporting modules gradually increases, and the supporting module stretches the side wall of the box outward, and the side wall of the box is gradually separated from the side of the product;

[0055] After the supporting module moves along the first arc section for a preset length, the top pressing rod enters from one end of the third arc section of the top pressing track and continuously moves along the top pressing track. The height of the top pressing rod gradually decreases, and the top pressing rod with continuously decreasing height presses against the bottom of the box; at this time, the extrusion rod also enters from one end of the second arc section of the extrusion track and continuously moves along the extrusion track. The distance between the two groups of extrusion rods gradually decreases, and the extrusion rods with continuously decreasing distance squeeze the edge of the box bottom inward; through the top pressing of the top pressing rod on the box bottom and the inward squeezing of the extrusion rod on the edge of the box bottom, the bottom of the box is sunken downward, pushing the product towards the mouth of the box until the product is completely separated from the box.

[0056] The present invention has the following advantages:

[0057] Through the present invention, the full process automation of box grasping, flipping, die supporting, material discharging, and recycling is realized, improving the production efficiency. Through the sliding cooperation of the L-shaped supporting module and the first arc section of the die supporting track, during the chain drive process, the die supporting track can guide the movement of the sliding connection part, realizing the progressive opening action of the die supporting mechanism at the preset position. By applying an expansion force to the side wall of the mold box through the L-shaped supporting module, the side wall of the box is expanded to both sides, the side wall of the box is separated from the product, and the product is separated from the box under the action of its own gravity, realizing the automatic demolding of the product. At the same time, by arranging multiple groups of die supporting mechanisms along the direction of the chain movement, the packaging efficiency is improved. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0058] Figure 1 is the layout schematic diagram of the demolding and packaging system;

[0059] Figure 2 is Figure 1 partial structural schematic diagram of the demolding module in the shown demolding and packaging system;

[0060] Figure 3 is Figure 2 top view schematic diagram of the shown demolding module;

[0061] Figure 4 is Figure 3 structural schematic diagram of the first limit plate in the shown demolding module;

[0062] Figure 5 is Figure 3 structural schematic diagram of the second limit plate in the shown demolding module;

[0063] Figure 6 is Figure 3 The structural schematic diagram of the mold support track in the shown demolding module;

[0064] Figure 7 is Figure 3 The structural schematic diagram of the mold support mechanism in the shown demolding module;

[0065] Figure 8 is Figure 3 The structural schematic diagram of the telescopic mechanism in the shown mold support module;

[0066] Figure 9 is Figure 1 The structural schematic diagram of the mold pressing module in the shown demolding and packaging system;

[0067] Figure 10 is Figure 9 The structural schematic diagram of the top pressing unit in the shown mold pressing module;

[0068] Figure 11 is Figure 9 The structural schematic diagram of the extrusion track in the shown mold pressing module;

[0069] Figure 12 is Figure 9 The structural schematic diagram of the top pressing track in the shown mold pressing module;

[0070] Figure 13 is Figure 9 The sectional view of the shown mold pressing module;

[0071] Figure 14 is Figure 1 The structural schematic diagram of the lifting module in the shown demolding and packaging system;

[0072] Figure 15 The schematic diagram when the box body moves to the demolding channel;

[0073] Figure 16 The schematic diagram when the product is demolded;

[0074] In the figure:

[0075] 100, The first conveying module;

[0076] 200, The transfer module;

[0077] 300. Demolding module; 310, First power unit; 320, First sprocket drive unit; 330, Limiting unit; 331, First limiting plate; 331A, Second kidney-shaped hole; 331B, First kidney-shaped hole; 332, Second limiting plate; 332A, Connecting part; 332B, Limiting part; 332C, Connecting hole; 340, Mold support track; 341, First arc segment; 350, Telescopic mechanism; 351, Movable rod; 352, Fixed rod; 353, Spring; 360, Mold support mechanism; 361, Mold support block; 362, Connecting rod; 363, First sliding connection part; 364, Third kidney-shaped hole;

[0078] 400. Lifting module; 410, Lifting part; 411, First guide groove; 420, Cross-link structure; 430, Slide plate; 440, Third power unit; 450, Installation part; 451, Second guide groove;

[0079] 500. Pressing mold module; 510, Second power unit; 520, Second sprocket drive unit; 530, Extrusion track; 531, Second arc segment; 540, Pressing track; 541, Guide track; 542, Top mold track; 542A, Third arc segment; 550, Pressing unit; 551, Connecting plate; 551A, Chute; 552, Pressing rod; 553, Sliding sleeve; 554, Extrusion rod; 560, Lead screw; 570, Adjusting part;

[0080] 600. Second conveying module;

[0081] 700. Third conveying module;

[0082] 800. Product;

[0083] 900. Box body. Detailed implementation manners

[0084] The embodiments of the present application will be described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, where the same or similar reference numerals represent the same or similar elements or elements with the same or similar functions from beginning to end. The embodiments described below with reference to the drawings are exemplary and are intended to explain the present application, and should not be construed as a limitation to the present application.

[0085] In this document, relational terms such as first and second, etc., are used only to distinguish one entity or operation from another entity or operation, and do not necessarily require or imply any such actual relationship or order between these entities or operations. Moreover, the term "comprises" or any other variation thereof is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of elements includes not only those elements, but also other elements not explicitly listed, or also includes elements inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0086] As mentioned in the background technology, manual demoulding is inefficient and cannot meet the large-scale production needs of the modern food industry. The use of heating to separate the hot pot base from the box requires precise control of the heating temperature and heating area, otherwise the hot pot base will melt over a large area and be difficult to control.

[0087] Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned technical problems existing in the prior art, the present invention provides the following embodiments.

[0088] Embodiment 1:

[0089] This embodiment provides an automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot soup base. Figure 1 As shown, the demoulding packaging system includes a demoulding module 300, which receives the box body 900 grabbed by the transfer module 200 from the first conveying module 100. After the transfer module grabs the box body, it drives the box body to flip 180°, and the demoulding module drives the box body to move. When it moves to a preset position, the side walls of the box body are opened to both sides, so that the product 800 is separated from the box body and falls to the third conveying module 700. The product is driven to move to the product packaging equipment through the third conveying module. The box body stays on the demoulding module and continues to move to the end of the demoulding module, and falls onto the second conveying module 600. The box body is driven to move to the cleaning system through the second conveying module.

[0090] Specifically, taking the hot pot base as an example, the first conveying module, the second conveying module, and the third conveying module can be belt conveyors or chain plate conveyors. The first conveying module is connected to the cooling and forming equipment of the hot pot base, and through this first conveying module, the box body and the hot pot base cooled and formed inside it are conveyed together in the direction of the grasping module. In this embodiment, the grasping module can be a flipping fixture combined with a robotic arm. The robotic arm can drive the flipping fixture to approach the box body, and the box body can be clamped or adsorbed by the flipping fixture. Then the robotic arm moves again, driving the box body towards the demolding module. During this process, the flipping fixture will flip the box body by 180°, so that the box body is inverted on the demolding module. The second conveying module can be arranged below one end of the demolding module to receive the empty box body dropped from one end of the demolding module. This second conveying module can be connected to the box body cleaning equipment, and through this second conveying module, the empty box body can be conveyed to the box body cleaning equipment for cleaning. The third conveying module can be arranged below a preset position of the demolding module. When the hot pot base is separated from the box body and falls onto the third conveying module, this third conveying module can be connected to the packaging equipment, and through this third conveying module, the hot pot base can be driven towards the packaging equipment.

[0091] Specifically, as Figure 2 , 3 shown, the demolding module includes:

[0092] The first power unit 310;

[0093] The first sprocket transmission unit 320, which is connected to the first power unit, and the first power unit drives the first sprocket transmission unit to move;

[0094] The limiting unit 330, which is fixed on the chain of the first sprocket transmission unit and is arranged at equal intervals along the movement direction of the chain. This limiting unit limits the mouth part of the accommodating box body;

[0095] The mold support unit, which has several groups. The several groups of the mold support units are arranged corresponding to the limiting units. Each group of the mold support units includes a pair of oppositely arranged mold support mechanisms 360. The mold support mechanisms are in contact with the inner side wall of the mouth part of the box body, and the mold support mechanisms are connected to the chain through the telescopic mechanism 350;

[0096] The mold support track 340, as Figure 6 shown, there are two groups of the mold support tracks, and the two groups of the mold support tracks are arranged oppositely. The upper part of this mold support track has a first arc section 341 bent along the box body expanding direction. Each mold support mechanism of each group of the mold support units is respectively slidably arranged on the two groups of the mold support tracks, and the mold support mechanisms move along this mold support track as the chain moves;

[0097] As Figure 7 shown, the mold support mechanism can include:

[0098] The first sliding connection part 363 is slidably connected to the mold support track, and the movement of the chain drives the first sliding connection part to move along the mold support track.

[0099] The mold support block 361 is generally L-shaped as a whole, and one end of the mold support block is connected to the first sliding connection part.

[0100] Specifically, the demolding module further includes a first frame. The first power unit and the first sprocket drive unit are both installed on the first frame. The first power unit can be a servo motor, a stepper motor, or other devices that can realize the movement of the first sprocket drive unit. A T-shaped groove can be provided on the outer surface of the mold support track. The end of the first sliding connection part can be provided with a T-shaped block, a guide wheel, or other structures that can be slidably matched with the T-shaped groove. In addition to the T-shaped groove, other guiding structures can also be provided. For example, two groups of guide wheels can be provided at the end of the first sliding connection part, and the two groups of guide wheels sandwich the track and are in contact with the side surface of the track.

[0101] Exemplarily, as Figure 8 shown, the telescopic mechanism can include:

[0102] A fixed rod 352, one end of which is fixedly connected to the chain of the first sprocket drive unit;

[0103] A movable rod 351, which is partially wrapped in the fixed rod and slides relative to the fixed rod. One end of the movable rod is fixedly connected to the first sliding connection part, and a spring 353 is sleeved on the part of the movable rod wrapped in the fixed rod.

[0104] Specifically, when the mold support block moves in the first arc section, the mold support block will stretch or squeeze the movable rod, so that the movable rod moves linearly along its own axis direction. While realizing the connection with the chain, it can avoid interfering with the movement of the mold support block in the direction perpendicular to the conveying direction.

[0105] In the use of this embodiment, the box body and the hot pot base material cooled and formed inside are conveyed together towards the grasping module through the first conveying module. The grasping module grasps the box body on the first conveying module and drives the box body towards the demoulding module. During this process, the grasping module will turn the box body by 180°. Subsequently, the box body is placed upside down in the limiting unit. The first power unit drives the first sprocket transmission mechanism to move, and the limiting unit moves along with the chain of the first sprocket transmission mechanism to drive the box body inside the limiting unit to move together. At the same time, the chain of the first sprocket transmission mechanism will drive the supporting module to move along the supporting die track. When the supporting module enters from one end of the first arc section of the supporting die track and continuously moves along the first arc section, the distance between the two groups of supporting modules gradually increases. The supporting module will stretch the side wall of the box body outwards, and the side wall of the box body gradually separates from the side of the product. The product gradually separates from the box body under the action of its own gravity and falls onto the third conveying module. The third conveying module drives the product towards the packaging equipment, while the empty box body continues to stay in the limiting unit and continues to move towards the end of the demoulding module along with the limiting unit. When the supporting module moves to the midpoint position of the first arc section, at this time, the distance between the two groups of supporting modules reaches the maximum. After that, as the supporting module continues to move, the distance between the two groups of supporting modules begins to gradually decrease until the supporting module leaves the first arc section. At this time, the distance between the two groups of supporting modules reaches the minimum and no longer forms stretching or contact with the side wall of the box body. When the box body moves to the end of the demoulding module, it continues to move and turn along with the sprocket transmission unit and falls onto the second conveying module under the action of its own weight. The second conveying module drives the empty box body towards the box body cleaning equipment.

[0106] Through this embodiment, the full process automation of box body grasping, flipping, die supporting, material discharging, and recycling is realized, improving the production efficiency. Through the sliding cooperation between the L-shaped supporting module and the first arc section supporting die track, during the chain drive process, the supporting die track can guide the movement of the sliding connection part to realize the progressive opening action of the die supporting mechanism at the preset position. By applying an expanding force to the side wall of the mold box by the L-shaped supporting module, the side wall of the box body is stretched outwards, the side wall of the box body separates from the product, and the product separates from the box body under the action of its own gravity, realizing the automatic demoulding of the product. At the same time, by arranging multiple groups of die supporting mechanisms along the chain movement direction, the packaging efficiency is improved.

[0107] Exemplarily, as Figure 3 shown, the limiting unit may include:

[0108] The first limiting plate 331, there are two groups of the first limiting plates, the two groups of the first limiting plates are arranged oppositely and are fixed to the chain;

[0109] The second limiting plate 332, there are four groups of the second limiting plates, every two groups of the second limiting plates are fixed on one group of the first limiting plates, and the four groups of the second limiting plates are arranged oppositely;

[0110] Between the four groups of the second limiting plates and the two groups of the first limiting plates, a limiting groove for defining the mouth of the accommodating box body is formed, and a blanking opening for the product to fall is provided in the middle of the limiting groove.

[0111] In this embodiment, a double constraint is formed by the limiting groove composed of the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate, so as to ensure that the box body is kept in the preset position, improve the placement and positioning accuracy of the box body. The blanking opening in the middle of the limiting groove provides a vertical falling channel for the product, which is convenient for the product to be discharged out of the box body.

[0112] Exemplarily, as Figure 4 , 5 shown, a first waist-shaped hole 331B is provided at the connection between the first limiting plate and the chain, and a second waist-shaped hole 331A is provided at the connection between the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate;

[0113] In this embodiment, the first limiting plate is fixedly connected to the link of the chain of the first sprocket drive unit through a first bolt. The first bolt passes through the first waist-shaped hole and the link from top to bottom, and a first nut is threadedly installed to fix the first limiting plate. The second limiting plate includes a connecting portion 332A and a limiting portion 332B perpendicular to the connecting portion. A connecting hole 332C corresponding to the second waist-shaped hole is provided on the connecting portion. The second bolt sequentially drives through the connecting hole and the second waist-shaped hole, and a second nut is threadedly installed to realize the relative fixation between the second limiting plate and the first limiting plate;

[0114] As Figure 7 shown, the mold support mechanism further includes a connecting rod 362, which is fixedly connected to the first sliding connection portion. Third waist-shaped holes 364 are provided at both ends of the connecting rod. One end of the mold support block is provided with a threaded rod, which passes through the third waist-shaped hole. Two nuts are threadedly matched on the threaded rod to clamp the connecting rod inside, so that the mold support block is fixed to the connecting rod.

[0115] Before the demolding work is carried out in this embodiment, the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate can be slid according to the specifications of the box body first, so as to adjust the distance between the two groups of first limiting plates and the distance between the second limiting plates on the same group of limiting plates. At the same time, the mold support block is slid horizontally to adjust the distance between the two groups of mold support blocks in the same group of mold support mechanisms and the distance between the two groups of mold support mechanisms. After the adjustment is completed, the nuts of the respective connecting bolts are tightened for fixation.

[0116] Through the first waist-shaped hole at the connection between the first limiting plate and the chain and the second waist-shaped hole at the connection between the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate, the position adjustment of the limiting unit in the horizontal and vertical directions is realized. The support module and the connecting rod adopt a double-nut locking structure with a third waist-shaped hole and a threaded rod, so that the horizontal position and the extended length of the support module can be flexibly adjusted according to the internal contour of the box body. Thus, the size of the limiting groove and the position of the support module can be adjusted according to the specifications of the box body, improving the practical flexibility of the system.

[0117] In addition, in this embodiment, as Figure 1 shown, the demoulding and packaging system may further include a pressing die module 500, which is arranged above the demoulding module corresponding to the support die track. The pressing die module presses the bottom of the box body to eject the product.

[0118] Exemplarily, as Figure 9 shown, the pressing die module includes:

[0119] A second power unit 510;

[0120] A second sprocket drive unit 520, which is connected to the second power unit. The second power unit drives the second sprocket drive unit to move along a direction parallel to the movement direction of the first sprocket drive unit;

[0121] A pressing unit 550, which is connected to the chain of the second sprocket drive unit. As Figure 10 shown, the pressing unit includes a pressing rod 552;

[0122] A pressing track 540, the pressing rod is slidably fitted on the pressing track. When the second sprocket drive unit moves, the pressing rod moves along the pressing track. As Figure 12 shown, the pressing track includes a top die track 542, and the lower part of the top die track is provided with a third arc segment 542A that bends vertically downward corresponding to the first arc segment of the support die track.

[0123] In this embodiment, the pressing die module may further include a second machine frame. The pressing track, the second power unit and the second sprocket drive unit can all be installed on the second machine frame. The second machine frame is connected to the first machine frame so that the second sprocket drive unit is parallel to the first sprocket drive unit as a whole above it. The second power unit can be a servo motor, a stepping motor or other devices that can realize the movement of the second sprocket drive unit.

[0124] Specifically, when the box body is driven to the inlet of the demolding channel formed by the demolding module and the pressing die module, the top pressing rod is above the bottom of the box, and the top pressing unit moves synchronously with the box body in the demolding channel. When the top pressing rod enters from one end of the third arc section of the top pressing track and continues to move along the top pressing track, the height of the top pressing rod gradually decreases. The top pressing rod with continuously decreasing height presses against the bottom of the box, causing the bottom of the box to sink downward, pushing the product towards the mouth of the box until the product is completely separated from the box body. When the top pressing rod moves to the midpoint of the third arc section, the height of the top pressing rod reaches the lowest. As the top pressing unit continues to move, the height of the top pressing rod gradually increases, and the bottom of the box gradually returns to its original state until the top pressing rod leaves the third arc section. At this time, the distance between the two groups of pressing rods reaches the minimum, and no longer forms extrusion or contact with the side wall of the box body.

[0125] In this embodiment, the first arc section 341 of the support die track guides the support die module to laterally expand the side wall of the box body, separating the side of the product from the side wall of the box body. The third arc section of the top pressing track guides the top pressing rod to lower its height, thereby applying a vertical top pressure to the bottom of the box body and improving the demolding effect of the product.

[0126] In addition, as Figure 10 shown, the top pressing unit may further include pressing rods 554, which are relatively arranged on both sides of the top pressing rod, and an L-shaped groove matching the edge of the bottom of the box is provided at the end of the pressing rod;

[0127] The pressing die module further includes a pressing track 530, which corresponds to the pressing rod. The end of the pressing rod away from the L-shaped groove is slidably engaged with the pressing track. As Figure 11 shown, a second arc section 531 that bends in the direction opposite to the expansion of the side wall of the box body is provided at the lower part of the pressing track corresponding to the third arc section.

[0128] When the top pressing rod enters from one end of the third arc section of the top pressing track and continues to move along the top pressing track, the height of the top pressing rod gradually decreases. The top pressing rod with continuously decreasing height presses against the bottom of the box; at this time, the pressing rods also enter from one end of the second arc section of the pressing track and continue to move along the pressing track at the same time, and the distance between the two groups of pressing rods gradually decreases. The pressing rods with continuously decreasing distance squeeze the edge of the bottom of the box inward; through the top pressing of the top pressing rod on the bottom of the box and the inward squeezing of the pressing rods on the edge of the bottom of the box, the bottom of the box is caused to sink downward, pushing the product towards the mouth of the box until the product is completely separated from the box body; when the support die module moves to the midpoint position of the first arc section, the pressing rods also move to the midpoint of the second arc section, and the distance between the pressing rods reaches the minimum. As the top pressing unit continues to move, the distance between the pressing rods gradually increases, and the bottom of the box gradually returns to its original state until the top pressing rod leaves the third arc section and the pressing rods leave the second arc section. At this time, the distance between the two groups of pressing rods reaches the minimum and the height of the top pressing rod reaches the maximum, and no longer forms extrusion or contact with the side wall of the box body;

[0129] In this embodiment, by guiding along the curvature trajectory of the second arc segment of the extrusion track opposite to that of the first arc segment of the mold support track, the extrusion rod is tightened inward against the bottom edge of the box, cooperating with the mold support module to expand the side wall of the box outward, reducing the demolding resistance. By the inward extrusion of the extrusion rod in cooperation with the downward pressing of the pressing rod against the bottom of the box, the bottom of the box contracts inward while the bottom of the box sinks downward, thereby forming a downward driving force on the bottom of the product, which can push the product downward, thus improving the separation efficiency of the product from the box.

[0130] Exemplarily, as Figure 10 shown, the pressing unit further includes a connecting plate 551. The extrusion rod and the pressing rod are both installed on this connecting plate. The connecting plate is connected to the chain of the second sprocket drive unit. A chute 551A extending along the direction parallel to the expansion direction of the side wall of the box is provided at the connection of the connecting plate and the extrusion rod. The extrusion rod is inserted into this chute. A sliding sleeve 553 is also fixed on the connecting plate. The pressing rod is inserted into this sliding sleeve and is in sliding cooperation with the sliding sleeve.

[0131] In this embodiment, the connecting plate is used to connect the extrusion rod, the pressing rod and the second sprocket drive mechanism, so as to realize the synchronous movement of the extrusion rod and the pressing rod when the second sprocket mechanism moves. By setting the chute and the sliding sleeve, while not interfering with the horizontal linear movement of the extrusion rod perpendicular to the movement direction of the chain or the vertical linear movement of the pressing rod, the movement of the extrusion rod or the pressing rod can be restricted, improving the movement accuracy of the extrusion rod and the pressing rod.

[0132] In this embodiment, a guide track 541 parallel to the chain of the second sprocket drive unit is further provided outside the top mold track. The sliding sleeve is in sliding cooperation within this guide track.

[0133] In this embodiment, the cooperation mode between the top mold track and the pressing rod, and the cooperation mode between the extrusion track and the extrusion rod can refer to the cooperation mode between the mold support track and the mold support module described above.

[0134] Exemplarily, as Figure 13 shown, the press mold module may further include:

[0135] An adjusting part 570, which is fixed on the extrusion track;

[0136] A lead screw 560, which is in threaded cooperation with the adjusting part.

[0137] In this embodiment, by the threaded cooperation between the lead screw and the adjusting part, the position of the extrusion track can be adjusted.

[0138] In addition, a hand wheel, a motor or other devices or structures capable of driving the lead screw to rotate can be installed at the position of the second frame corresponding to the lead screw, so as to facilitate the staff to control the rotation of the lead screw.

[0139] For example, Figure 1 As shown, the demoulding packaging system may further include a lifting module 400, which is disposed between the demoulding module and the die pressing module, and drives the die pressing module to move vertically linearly;

[0140] like Figure 14 As shown, the lifting module includes:

[0141] A mounting portion 450, which is fixed to the side of the demoulding module and has a second guide groove 451;

[0142] A third power unit 440, the third power unit is mounted on the mounting portion;

[0143] A slide plate 430, which is connected to the third power unit and has a pulley disposed in the second guide groove mounted on the slide plate;

[0144] A cross-link structure 420, the bottom of which is pivotally connected to the mounting portion and the slide plate respectively;

[0145] A lifting part 410 is fixed to the die module, and a first guide groove 411 is provided on the lifting part. A pulley matching the first guide groove is provided on the top of the cross-link structure.

[0146] Specifically, the third power unit can be selected from a pneumatic cylinder, an electric cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder or other linear drive devices. In this embodiment, the third power unit can drive the slide plate to move horizontally linearly along the second guide groove, thereby driving the connecting rods of the cross-connection structure to rotate relative to each other along the rotating axis of their intersection, changing the angle between the connecting rods, thereby realizing the lifting and lowering movement of the lifting part.

[0147] In this embodiment, the pressing die module can be driven to vertically move up and down by the lifting module, thereby achieving height adjustment of the pressing die module.

[0148] Embodiment 2:

[0149] This embodiment provides a method for automatically demoulding and packaging a hot pot soup base. The method uses an automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot soup base described in Embodiment 1. The method comprises:

[0150] S100: The first conveying module drives the box body to move toward the grabbing position, wherein the box body contains the product formed into a solid state by self-flow cooling;

[0151] Specifically, the self-flowing cooling and forming into a solid state is as follows: after the box body is sequentially filled with the bottom material layer, the oil layer and the dry material in a flowing state in a filling device, it is gradually cooled and solidified into a block-shaped hot pot bottom material in the cooling device.

[0152] S200: The gripping module grips the box body that has moved to the gripping position, drives the box body towards the demolding module, and during this process, the box body is flipped by 180°;

[0153] S300: The demolding module continues to drive the box body towards the demolding channel. The product inside the box body is separated from the box body under the combined action of the demolding module and the pressing die module within the demolding channel;

[0154] Specifically, the box body is placed by the gripping module into the limiting groove of the demolding module. At this time, the supporting module partially extends into the box body from the mouth part of the box body;

[0155] The first power unit drives the first sprocket transmission mechanism to move. The first limiting plate and the second limiting plate move along with the chain of the first sprocket transmission mechanism to drive the box body in the limiting groove to move together. The chain of the first sprocket transmission mechanism drives the supporting module to move along the supporting die track; the second power unit drives the second sprocket transmission mechanism to move, and the pressing unit moves together with the second sprocket transmission mechanism;

[0156] As Figure 15 shown, when the box body is driven to the inlet of the demolding channel formed by the demolding module and the pressing die module, the edge of the box bottom is in the L-shaped groove of the extrusion rod, the pressing rod is above the box bottom, and the pressing unit moves synchronously with the box body in the demolding channel;

[0157] As Figure 16 shown, when the supporting module enters from one end of the first arc section of the supporting die track and continues to move along the first arc section, the distance between the two groups of supporting modules gradually increases, and the supporting module stretches the side wall of the box body outwards, and the side wall of the box body is gradually separated from the side of the product;

[0158] When the pressing rod enters from one end of the third arc section of the pressing track and continues to move along the pressing track, the height of the pressing rod gradually decreases. The pressing rod with a continuously decreasing height presses against the box bottom; at this time, the extrusion rod also enters from one end of the second arc section of the extrusion track and continues to move along the extrusion track at the same time, and the distance between the two groups of extrusion rods gradually decreases. The extrusion rods with a continuously decreasing distance squeeze the edge of the box bottom inwards; through the pressing of the box bottom by the pressing rod and the squeezing of the edge of the box bottom inwards by the extrusion rod, the box bottom is sunken downwards, pushing the product towards the mouth of the box body until the product is completely separated from the box body;

[0159] In this embodiment, after the molding module enters from one end of the first arc section and continues to move a preset distance, the pressing rod and the extrusion rod start to enter the third arc section and the second arc section respectively.

[0160] S400: The separated product slides from the blanking port of the limiting groove onto the third conveying module, and the third conveying module conveys the product to the packaging equipment for product packaging;

[0161] S500: After demoulding, the box body continues to stay in the limit groove and move along the movement direction of the chain of the first sprocket drive mechanism, and then falls from the end of the demoulding module onto the second conveying module. The second conveying module drives the box body to be conveyed to the cleaning system;

[0162] Specifically, due to the limitation of the first limiting plate and the supporting module, the box body will always stay in the limit groove. When the supporting module moves to the midpoint position of the first arc segment, the distance between the two supporting modules reaches the maximum. As the supporting module continues to move, the distance between the two supporting modules begins to gradually decrease until the supporting module leaves the first arc segment. At this time, the distance between the two supporting modules reaches the minimum, and no longer forms stretching or contact with the side wall of the box body;

[0163] When the supporting module moves to the midpoint position of the first arc segment, the pressing rod moves to the midpoint of the third arc segment, the height of the pressing rod reaches the lowest, and the extrusion rod also moves to the midpoint of the second arc segment, and the distance between the extrusion rods reaches the minimum. As the pressing unit continues to move, the height of the pressing rod gradually increases, the distance between the extrusion rods gradually increases, and the bottom of the box gradually returns to its original state until the pressing rod leaves the third arc segment and the extrusion rod leaves the second arc segment. At this time, the distance between the two extrusion rods reaches the minimum and the height of the pressing rod reaches the maximum, and no longer forms extrusion or contact with the side wall of the box body;

[0164] The empty box body continues to move with the limit groove to the end of the demoulding module, and under the action of its own gravity, it falls onto the second conveying module. The second conveying module conveys the box body to the cleaning system.

[0165] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to implement or use the present invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be obvious to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention will not be limited to these embodiments shown herein, but rather to the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. An automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base materials, comprising a demoulding module, characterized in that, The demolding module receives the box grabbed by the transfer module from the first conveying module. After the transfer module grabs the box, it drives the box to flip 180°. The demolding module drives the box to move. When it moves to the preset position, the side walls of the box expand to both sides, so that the product detaches from the box and falls onto the third conveying module. The third conveying module drives the product to move to the product packaging equipment. The box stays on the demolding module and continues to move to the end of the demolding module, then falls onto the second conveying module. The second conveying module drives the box to move to the cleaning system. The demolding module includes: The first power unit; The first sprocket transmission unit, which is connected to the first power unit and is driven by the first power unit to move; The limiting unit, which is fixed on the chain of the first sprocket transmission unit and is arranged at equal intervals along the movement direction of the chain. The limiting unit defines the opening for accommodating the box; The mold expanding unit, which is provided with several groups. The several groups of the mold expanding units are arranged corresponding to the limiting unit. Each group of the mold expanding units includes a pair of oppositely arranged mold expanding mechanisms. The mold expanding mechanisms are in contact with the inner side walls of the box opening. The mold expanding mechanisms are connected to the chain through the telescopic mechanism; The mold expanding tracks, which are provided with two groups. The two groups of mold expanding tracks are arranged oppositely. The upper part of the mold expanding tracks has a first arc section bent along the box expanding direction. Each mold expanding mechanism of each group of the mold expanding units is respectively slidably arranged on the two groups of the mold expanding tracks. The mold expanding mechanisms move along the mold expanding tracks as the chain moves; The mold expanding mechanism includes: The first sliding connection part, which is slidably connected to the mold expanding track and is driven by the movement of the chain to move along the mold expanding track; The mold expanding block, which is integrally L-shaped. One end of the mold expanding block is connected to the first sliding connection part.

2. The automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material according to claim 1, characterized in that The limiting unit includes: The first limiting plates, which are provided with two groups. The two groups of the first limiting plates are arranged oppositely and are fixed to the chain; The second limiting plates, which are provided with four groups. Every two groups of the second limiting plates are fixed to one group of the first limiting plates. The four groups of the second limiting plates are arranged oppositely; A limiting groove for defining and accommodating the box opening is formed between the four groups of the second limiting plates and the two groups of the first limiting plates. A blanking opening for the product to fall is provided in the middle of the limiting groove.

3. The automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base according to claim 2, wherein A first waist-shaped hole is provided at the connection between the first limiting plate and the chain. A second waist-shaped hole is provided at the connection between the first limiting plate and the second limiting plate; The mold expanding mechanism further includes a connecting rod, which is fixed to the first sliding connection part. Third waist-shaped holes are provided at both ends of the connecting rod. A threaded rod is provided at one end of the mold expanding block. The threaded rod passes through the third waist-shaped holes. The connecting rod is clamped inside by two nuts threaded on the threaded rod, so that the mold expanding block is fixed to the connecting rod.

4. The automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material according to claim 1, wherein The demolding and packaging system further includes a mold pressing module, which is arranged above the demolding module corresponding to the mold expanding tracks. The mold pressing module presses the bottom of the box to eject the product.

5. An automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material according to claim 4, characterized in that, The mold pressing module includes: The second power unit; The second sprocket drive unit is connected to the second power unit, and the second power unit drives the second sprocket drive unit to move along a direction parallel to the movement direction of the first sprocket drive unit; The pressing unit is connected to the chain of the second sprocket drive unit, and the pressing unit includes a pressing rod; The pressing track, the pressing rod is slidably fitted on the pressing track. When the second sprocket drive unit moves, the pressing rod moves along the pressing track. The pressing track includes a top die track, and the lower part of the top die track is provided with a third arc section that bends vertically downward corresponding to the first arc section of the support die track.

6. The automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material according to claim 5, characterized in that, The pressing unit further includes an extrusion rod, which is relatively arranged on both sides of the pressing rod, and an L-shaped groove matching the edge of the box bottom is provided at the end of the extrusion rod; The die pressing module further includes an extrusion track, the extrusion track is arranged corresponding to the extrusion rod, and the end of the extrusion rod away from the L-shaped groove is slidably fitted with the extrusion track. The lower part of the extrusion track is provided with a second arc section that bends in the direction opposite to the direction of expanding the side wall of the box body corresponding to the third arc section.

7. An automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material according to claim 6, characterized in that, The pressing unit further includes a connecting plate, the extrusion rod and the pressing rod are both installed on the connecting plate, the connecting plate is connected to the chain of the second sprocket drive unit, a sliding groove extending in the direction parallel to the direction of expanding the side wall of the box body is opened at the connection between the connecting plate and the extrusion rod, the extrusion rod is inserted into the sliding groove, and a sliding sleeve is further fixed on the connecting plate, and the pressing rod is inserted into the sliding sleeve and is slidably fitted with the sliding sleeve.

8. An automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material according to claim 7, characterized in that, The die pressing module further includes: The adjusting part is fixed on the extrusion track; The lead screw is in threaded cooperation with the adjusting part.

9. The automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material according to claim 4, characterized in that, The demoulding and packaging system further includes a lifting module, which is arranged between the demoulding module and the die pressing module, and drives the die pressing module to perform linear movement vertically through the lifting module; The lifting module includes: The installation part is fixed on the side of the demoulding module, and a second guiding groove is opened on the installation part; The third power unit is installed on the installation part; The sliding plate is connected to the third power unit, and a pulley arranged in the second guiding groove is installed on the sliding plate; The cross-linking rod structure, the bottom parts of the cross-linking rod structure are respectively pivotally connected to the installation part and the sliding plate; The lifting part is fixedly connected to the die pressing module, a first guiding groove is opened on the lifting part, and a pulley matching the first guiding groove is arranged at the top of the cross-linking rod structure.

10. An automatic demoulding and packaging method for hot pot base material, characterized in that, This demoulding and packaging method uses an automatic demoulding and packaging system for hot pot base material described in claim 6. The demoulding and packaging method includes: The first conveying module drives the box body to move towards the grasping position, and the box body contains a product that is cooled from a self-flowing state to a solid state; The grasping module grasps the box body that moves to the grasping position and drives the box body to move towards the demoulding module. During this process, the box body is turned 180°; The demoulding module continues to drive the box body to move towards the demoulding channel. The product in the box body is separated from the box body under the combined action of the demoulding module and the die pressing module in the demoulding channel; The separated product slides from the blanking opening of the self-limiting groove onto the third conveying module, and the product is conveyed to the packaging equipment by the third conveying module for product packaging; The box body after demoulding continues to stay in the limiting groove and continues to move along the movement direction of the chain of the first sprocket transmission mechanism, and falls from the end of the demoulding module onto the second conveying module, and the box body is driven by the second conveying module to be conveyed to the cleaning system; The product in the box body is in the demoulding channel and is separated from the box body under the combined action of the demoulding module and the pressing die module, including: The supporting module enters from one end of the first arc section of the self-supporting die track and continues to move along the first arc section. The distance between the two groups of supporting modules gradually increases, and the supporting module stretches the side wall of the box body outwards, and the side wall of the box body is gradually separated from the side of the product; After the supporting module moves along the first arc section for a preset length, the top pressing rod enters from one end of the third arc section of the top pressing track and continues to move along the top pressing track, and the height of the top pressing rod gradually decreases. The top pressing rod with continuously decreasing height presses against the bottom of the box; at this time, the extrusion rod also enters from one end of the second arc section of the extrusion track and continues to move along the extrusion track, and the distance between the two groups of extrusion rods gradually decreases. The extrusion rods with continuously decreasing distance squeeze the edge of the box bottom inwards; through the top pressing of the top pressing rod on the box bottom and the squeezing of the extrusion rod on the edge of the box bottom inwards, the bottom of the box is sunken downwards, pushing the product towards the mouth of the box until the product is completely separated from the box.

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