Tea leaf fermentation device and method

Abstract

The invention discloses a tea leaf fermentation device and method, and relates to the technical field of tea leaf fermention.The tea leaf fermentation device is technically characterized by comprising a base and a lower shell fixedly installed on the base, an upper shell matched with the lower shell is connected to the position over the lower shell through bolts, and an anti-caking structure is arranged in an inner cavity of the lower shell and comprises a cylinder bottom; an inclined inner ventilation cylinder and an inclined outer ventilation cylinder are sequentially and fixedly mounted on the cylinder bottom from inside to outside, the inclined inner ventilation cylinder and the inclined outer ventilation cylinder are located on the same axis, and by arranging the inclined ventilation cylinders, a turnover mechanism, an inner rotating shaft, an outer rotating shaft and an arc-shaped baffle system, physical damage to tea leaves caused by traditional rigid stirring is effectively avoided; uniform turning and dynamic buffering protection of tea leaves are achieved, meanwhile, a three-dimensional circulating air duct is constructed through the breathable partition plate and the breathable holes, the problem of local fermentation difference caused by uneven airflow distribution is solved, it is ensured that the enzymatic oxidation reaction is continuously and evenly carried out, and the flavor consistency and quality stability of finished tea are remarkably improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of tea fermentation, and specifically provides a tea fermentation device and method. Background Art

[0002] As a traditional beverage with a long history, the quality characteristics and flavor presentation of tea essentially depend on the precise control of the fermentation process. In the processing systems of fermented tea categories such as black tea and oolong tea, the enzymatic oxidation reaction based on polyphenol oxidase constitutes the core biochemical conversion process. By precisely controlling parameters such as temperature, humidity, and oxygen supply, the endogenous substances in tea greens are promoted to undergo directional transformation, forming specific color, aroma components, and taste characteristics. The control precision of this biochemical conversion process directly determines the flavor level and market value of tea products.

[0003] In traditional fermentation processes, in order to achieve homogeneous conversion of materials, mechanical stirring treatment methods are generally adopted. However, when the rigid stirring device comes into contact with tea leaves, it is prone to cause physical damage. At the microscopic level, mechanical external forces will cause the destruction of the cell wall structure of tea leaves, resulting in the premature leakage of enzymatic reaction substrates, which not only affects the continuity of the normal fermentation process but also causes the abnormal dissipation of volatile aromatic substances. Macroscopically, it is manifested as a decrease in the integrity of finished tea strips, an increase in the turbidity of the tea soup, and the conversion of characteristic floral and fruity aromas into grassy odors and other quality deterioration phenomena. Therefore, we propose a tea fermentation device and method. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Aiming at the deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention provides a tea fermentation device and method to solve the problem that mechanical stirring in traditional fermentation processes is prone to cause physical damage to tea leaves. The rigid stirring destroys the cell wall, resulting in the leakage of enzymatic reaction substrates and the dissipation of aromatic substances, affecting the continuity of fermentation and the quality of tea. Macroscopically, it is manifested as a decrease in the integrity of finished tea strips, an increase in the turbidity of the tea soup, and the deterioration of the aroma.

[0005] To achieve the above object, the present invention provides the following technical solution: A tea fermentation device and method, including a base and a lower shell fixedly installed on the base. An upper shell adapted to the lower shell is bolted above the lower shell, and an anti-caking structure is arranged in the inner cavity of the lower shell.

[0006] The anti-caking structure includes a cylinder bottom, on which an inclined inner ventilation cylinder and an inclined outer ventilation cylinder are fixedly installed in sequence from the inside to the outside. The inclined inner ventilation cylinder and the inclined outer ventilation cylinder are located on the same axis, and a plurality of ventilation partition plates are fixedly installed between the inclined inner ventilation cylinder and the inclined outer ventilation cylinder.

[0007] An inner rotating shaft and an outer rotating shaft are rotatably connected in sequence from the inside to the outside between the two air-permeable partition plates. The inner rotating shaft and the outer rotating shaft are both in the shape of an arc strip. An inner arc-shaped baffle is fixedly installed on the inner rotating shaft, and an outer arc-shaped baffle is fixedly installed on the outer rotating shaft. The number of the inner rotating shaft, the outer rotating shaft, the inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle is several, and the inner rotating shaft and the outer rotating shaft correspond to the inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle one by one.

[0008] Preferably, a threaded sleeve is fixedly installed at one end of the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder away from the cylinder bottom; a socket cylinder is fixedly installed at the center of the bottom of the cylinder bottom.

[0009] Preferably, a number of uniformly distributed circular air-permeable holes are formed on the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder, the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder and the air-permeable partition plate; there are gaps between the inner arc-shaped baffle, the outer arc-shaped baffle and the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder, the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder and the air-permeable partition plate; there is a gap between the inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle.

[0010] Preferably, a flipping mechanism is arranged on the lower shell. The flipping mechanism includes a servo motor fixedly installed on the lower shell. The output end of the servo motor is fixedly installed with a main linkage rod penetrating the lower shell. The main linkage rod is connected to the lower shell by a bearing. A main linkage frame is fixedly installed at one end of the main linkage rod away from the servo motor. An L-shaped mounting block is fixedly installed on the main linkage frame. An inclined spring box is fixedly installed on the L-shaped mounting block. A chute is symmetrically opened on the inclined spring box. A telescopic spring is fixedly installed at the bottom of the inner cavity of the inclined spring box. The upper inclined end of the telescopic spring is fixedly installed with a plug rod slidably connected to the inclined spring box. The lower inclined end of the plug rod is fixedly installed with a pressing plate penetrating the chute.

[0011] Preferably, the flipping mechanism further includes a secondary linkage rod connected to the lower shell by a bearing. The secondary linkage rod penetrates the lower shell. A secondary linkage frame is fixedly installed at one end of the secondary linkage rod. A positioning block is fixedly installed on the outer circumferential surface of the secondary linkage frame. An inclined positioning rod is fixedly installed on the positioning block. An opening and closing bearing is fixedly installed at one end of the inclined positioning rod away from the positioning block. The inclined positioning rod is fixedly connected to the inner ring of the opening and closing bearing. A threaded sealing cover is fixedly installed on the outer ring of the opening and closing bearing.

[0012] Preferably, the main linkage frame and the secondary linkage rod have exactly the same structure. The main linkage frame and the secondary linkage rod are composed of an axle ring and three intersecting rods; the threaded sleeve is adapted to the threaded sealing cover.

[0013] Preferably, a number of exhaust holes are formed at one end of the lower shell and the upper shell close to the servo motor, and a number of intake holes are formed at one end of the lower shell and the upper shell away from the servo motor; arc-shaped wind shielding blocks are fixedly installed at one end of the lower shell and the upper shell close to the servo motor.

[0014] A fermentation method applicable to the tea fermentation device described in any one of claims 1-7, and its fermentation steps are as follows: S1. Perform pretreatment according to the characteristics of tea types: For tea types that require enzymatic fermentation (such as oolong tea), perform the "zuoqing" process to activate polyphenol oxidase; for tea types that require fermentation termination (such as green tea), perform fixation to ensure that the moisture content and enzyme activity of the tea meet the requirements of subsequent fermentation. S2. Open the upper shell, unscrew the sealing cover and remove the obliquely placed outer air-permeable cylinder, and evenly fill the pretreated tea into the annular space between the obliquely placed inner air-permeable cylinder and the obliquely placed outer air-permeable cylinder. The filling amount does not exceed 70%, leaving a turning space. Through the partition design of the air-permeable partition plate, the tea is distributed into multiple independent areas to avoid local accumulation. S3. Reinstall the obliquely placed outer air-permeable cylinder, press the insertion rod to align the sealing cover with the threaded sleeve and tighten it to ensure the airtightness of the device. Close the upper shell and fix the bolts, and check that the exhaust hole and the intake hole are unblocked. S4. Start the servo motor, drive the main linkage rod to drive the obliquely placed inner and outer air-permeable cylinders to rotate at a set inclination angle, and make the tea roll naturally along the cylinder wall through centrifugal force. Combined with the flexible buffering of the inner arc baffle and the outer arc baffle, three-dimensional turning is realized. Adjust the rotation speed according to the tea type: Oolong tea adopts high frequency and low amplitude to simulate "langqing", and black tea adopts low speed and uniform turning. S5. Pass a humid and hot air flow (containing atomized water vapor and oxygen) with controllable temperature through the intake hole. The air flow forms a three-dimensional circulating wind field through the air-permeable partition plate and the air-permeable holes, and evenly penetrates into the gaps between the tea leaves. Adjust the opening degree of the exhaust hole to maintain the dynamic temperature, humidity (such as 25-30°C, RH 80% - 90% for oolong tea) and oxygen concentration inside the device to ensure continuous and uniform enzymatic reactions. S6. Regularly observe the changes in the color and aroma of the tea. Sensors can be installed to monitor the internal temperature, humidity and oxygen content. By adjusting the rotation speed of the servo motor, air flow parameters and turning frequency, the fermentation environment is dynamically optimized to avoid uneven fermentation caused by local overheating or lack of oxygen. S7; After reaching the target fermentation degree, turn off the servo motor and the air flow supply. Let it stand for 10 - 15 minutes to allow the tea to settle. Unscrew the sealing cover and take out the tea, check the integrity of the tea strips and the integrity of the cell structure to ensure no mechanical damage, and finally obtain high-quality fermented tea with clear soup and pure aroma.

[0015] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: 1. By setting an inclined inner air-permeable cylinder, an inclined outer air-permeable cylinder and a flipping mechanism, the problem of physical damage to tea leaves caused by traditional rigid stirring is solved. The inclined cylinder rotates at a specific inclination angle driven by a servo motor, and the centrifugal force makes the tea leaves roll naturally along the cylinder wall. Combined with the three-dimensional flipping design, simulating the traditional manual "withering" process, it can not only achieve uniform flipping of the tea leaves, but also avoid the rupture of cell walls caused by direct mechanical extrusion, significantly protecting the integrity of the tea greens, reducing the leakage of enzymatic reaction substrates and the dissipation of aromatic substances, and ensuring that the finished tea soup is clear and the aroma is pure.

[0016] 2. By setting an inner rotating shaft, an outer rotating shaft, an arc-shaped baffle and a baffle, the problem of secondary damage caused by inertial collision during the flipping process of tea leaves is solved. The inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle on the inner and outer rotating shafts swing freely with the impact force when the tea leaves fall, converting the rigid collision into a multi-directional flexible buffer force, which not only guides the tea leaves to slide orderly to the bottom of the cylinder, but also avoids leaf jamming through the gap design, further reducing the risk of cell structure damage. This structure combines with the inclined rotation of the flipping mechanism to form a dynamic buffer system, which collaboratively ensures the physical integrity and biochemical reaction continuity of the tea leaves during the fermentation process.

[0017] 3. By setting an air-permeable partition plate and uniformly distributed air holes, the problem of local fermentation differences caused by uneven air flow distribution in traditional devices is solved. The air-permeable partition plate divides the annular space into multiple independent regions, and together with the air holes of the inclined inner and outer air-permeable cylinders, a three-dimensional circulation air duct is constructed, enabling the air flow with controllable temperature and humidity to uniformly penetrate the gaps between each layer of tea leaves. This design optimizes the oxygen penetration efficiency, ensures that the enzymatic oxidation reaction proceeds synchronously within the whole range, avoids uneven fermentation caused by local hypoxia or excessive humidity, and significantly improves the flavor consistency and quality stability of the finished tea. Description of the Drawings

[0018] Figure 1 is the complete structural schematic diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 is for the present invention Figure 1 structural schematic diagram from another perspective; Figure 3 is the exploded structural schematic diagram of a part of the present invention; Figure 4 is the structural schematic diagram of the anti-caking structure of the present invention; Figure 5 is for the present invention Figure 4 partial structural schematic diagram; Figure 6 is the structural schematic diagram of the arc-shaped wind-blocking block of the present invention; Figure 7 is the structural schematic diagram of the air-permeable partition plate, inner rotating shaft, inner arc-shaped baffle and outer arc-shaped baffle of the present invention; Figure 8This is a schematic structural diagram of the inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of the pressing plate, the telescopic spring and the insertion rod of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a schematic structural diagram of the inner rotating shaft and the outer rotating shaft of the present invention.

[0019] In the figure: 1, base; 2, lower shell; 3, upper shell; 4, anti-caking structure; 401, bottom of the cylinder; 402, inclined inner ventilation cylinder; 403, inclined outer ventilation cylinder; 404, ventilation partition board; 405, inner rotating shaft; 406, outer rotating shaft; 407, inner arc-shaped baffle; 408, outer arc-shaped baffle; 409, threaded sleeve; 410, insertion cylinder; 5, flipping mechanism; 501, servo motor; 502, main linkage rod; 503, main linkage frame; 504, L-shaped mounting block; 505, spring box; 506, telescopic spring; 507, insertion rod; 508, pressing plate; 509, secondary linkage rod; 510, secondary linkage frame; 511, positioning block; 512, inclined positioning rod; 513, opening and closing bearing; 514, sealing cover; 6, exhaust hole; 7, intake hole; 8, arc-shaped wind blocking block. Specific embodiments

[0020] In the present invention, unless otherwise stated, the orientations such as "upper, lower" are usually in the directions shown in the drawings, or in the vertical, perpendicular or gravitational directions; similarly, for the convenience of understanding and description, "left, right" are usually in the left and right shown in the drawings; "inner, outer" refer to the inner and outer of the contours of each component itself, but the above orientation terms do not limit the present invention.

[0021] The present invention provides a technical solution: Please refer to Figures 1 to 10 , a tea fermentation device, including a base 1 and a lower shell 2 fixedly installed on the base 1, and an upper shell 3 adapted to the lower shell 2 is bolted above the lower shell 2, and an anti-caking structure 4 is arranged in the inner cavity of the lower shell 2.

[0022] The anti-caking structure 4 includes a barrel bottom 401, on which an inclined inner air-permeable cylinder 402 and an inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 are fixedly installed in sequence from inside to outside. The inclined inner air-permeable cylinder 402 and the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 are located on the same axis. A number of air-permeable partition plates 404 are fixedly installed between the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder 402 and the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403. An inner rotating shaft 405 and an outer rotating shaft 406 are rotatably connected in sequence from inside to outside between two air-permeable partition plates 404. The inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406 are both in the shape of an arc strip. An inner arc-shaped baffle 407 is fixedly installed on the inner rotating shaft 405, and an outer arc-shaped baffle 408 is fixedly installed on the outer rotating shaft 406. The number of the inner rotating shaft 405, the outer rotating shaft 406, the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 is a number of, and the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406 are respectively in one-to-one correspondence with the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408.

[0023] The air-permeable partition plates 404 divide the space between the two cylinders into multiple independent areas, effectively avoiding local accumulation of tea leaves. Inner arc-shaped baffles 407 and outer arc-shaped baffles 408 are respectively installed on the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406 (the air-permeable partition plates 404 are rotatably connected to the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406. Inner rotating grooves and outer rotating grooves are provided on the air-permeable partition plates 404. Both ends of the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406 are respectively located in the inner rotating grooves and the outer rotating grooves. The diameters of the inner rotating grooves and the outer rotating grooves are larger than the diameters of the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406, ensuring that the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406 can rotate on the air-permeable partition plates 404 and avoiding the situation that the normal swinging cannot occur due to the influence of the radian at both ends of the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer rotating shaft 406). They swing freely with the turning of the tea leaves (during the turning of the tea leaves, they will contact the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408. At the same time, the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 will also swing under the action of gravity, prompting the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 to contact and swing), providing flexible buffering and reducing the collision damage of the tea leaves. During the working process, the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder 402 and the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 rotate under the drive of the servo motor 501, and the tea leaves naturally roll along the barrel wall. Combining the design of the air-permeable partition plates 404, the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408, the uniform turning of the tea leaves and the construction of a three-dimensional circulating air field are realized, ensuring uniform fermentation, protecting the integrity of the tea leaves and improving the quality of the fermented tea.

[0024] Please refer to Figures 4 and Figure 5 , a threaded sleeve 409 is fixedly installed at one end of the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 away from the barrel bottom 401; a socket cylinder 410 is fixedly installed at the center of the bottom of the barrel bottom 401.

[0025] During operation, the sealing cover 514 is screwed to connect with the threaded sleeve 409 to ensure the airtightness of the device and prevent tea leaves from leaking. At the same time, the insertion cylinder 410 provides stable support for the flipping mechanism 5, and cooperates with the threaded sleeve 409 to achieve quick disassembly and assembly, facilitating the filling and removal of tea leaves, improving the operation efficiency, and ensuring the smooth progress of the fermentation process.

[0026] In some embodiments, a number of uniformly distributed circular ventilation holes are provided on the inclined inner ventilation cylinder 402, the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, and the ventilation partition plate 404; there are gaps between the inner arc-shaped baffle 407, the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 and the inclined inner ventilation cylinder 402, the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, and the ventilation partition plate 404; there is a gap between the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408.

[0027] In this embodiment, the circular ventilation holes on the inclined inner ventilation cylinder 402, the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, and the ventilation partition plate 404 ensure the uniform distribution of air flow and promote the full fermentation of tea leaves. The gap design between the inner arc-shaped baffle 407, the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 and the ventilation structure reserves space for the swinging of the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408, ensuring that the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 can swing irregularly during the flipping of tea leaves, reducing the collision damage during tea leaf flipping, while allowing the penetration of hot and humid air flow and improving the fermentation efficiency. These gaps also promote the natural sliding of tea leaves, avoid leaf jamming, ensure the uniform heating and ventilation of tea leaves during the fermentation process, and play an important role in improving the quality of fermented tea.

[0028] Please refer to Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 and Figure 9 As shown in FIGS., a flipping mechanism 5 is provided on the lower shell 2. The flipping mechanism 5 includes a servo motor 501 fixedly installed on the lower shell 2. The output end of the servo motor 501 is fixedly installed with a main linkage rod 502 passing through the lower shell 2. The main linkage rod 502 is connected to the lower shell 2 by a bearing. The end of the main linkage rod 502 away from the servo motor 501 is fixedly installed with a main linkage frame 503; a L-shaped mounting block 504 is fixedly installed on the main linkage frame 503. An inclined spring box 505 is fixedly installed on the L-shaped mounting block 504. The inclined spring box 505 is symmetrically provided with sliding grooves. A telescopic spring 506 is fixedly installed at the bottom of the inner cavity of the inclined spring box 505. The upper inclined end of the telescopic spring 506 is fixedly installed with a plug rod 507 slidably connected to the inclined spring box 505. The lower inclined end of the plug rod 507 is fixedly installed with a pressing plate 508 passing through the sliding groove.

[0029] The flipping mechanism 5 is driven by a servo motor 501. Through the main linkage rod 502, it drives the main linkage frame 503 and the inclined inner and outer air-permeable cylinders to rotate, realizing the three-dimensional flipping of the tea leaves. The L-shaped mounting block 504 on the main linkage frame 503 fixes the inclined spring box 505, which contains a telescopic spring 506, connecting the insertion rod 507 and the pressing plate 508 to form a quick disassembly and assembly structure. During operation, pressing the pressing plate 508 releases the insertion rod 507, and the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 can be easily removed for tea filling. After filling, the insertion rod 507 is locked by pressing the pressing plate 508 to ensure the airtightness of the device. This design not only improves the operation efficiency but also avoids mechanical damage by precisely controlling the flipping of the tea leaves, ensuring the stability of the fermentation environment and the improvement of tea quality.

[0030] Please refer to Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 and Figure 7 ,The flipping mechanism 5 further includes a secondary linkage rod 509 bearing-connected to the lower shell 2. The secondary linkage rod 509 passes through the lower shell 2. One end of the secondary linkage rod 509 is fixedly installed with a secondary linkage frame 510. A positioning block 511 is fixedly installed on the outer circumferential surface of the secondary linkage frame 510. An inclined positioning rod 512 is fixedly installed on the positioning block 511. One end of the inclined positioning rod 512 away from the positioning block 511 is fixedly installed with a split bearing 513. The inclined positioning rod 512 is fixedly connected to the inner ring of the split bearing 513. A threaded sealing cover 514 is fixedly installed on the outer ring of the split bearing 513.

[0031] During the working process, the secondary linkage rod 509 is connected to the lower shell 2 through the secondary linkage frame 510 and the positioning block 511, providing additional support stability for the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 to ensure smoothness during rotation. The design of the split bearing 513 and the threaded sealing cover 514 on the inclined positioning rod 512 enables the sealing cover 514 to be conveniently tightened or loosened with the threaded sleeve 409, realizing quick sealing and disassembly, facilitating tea filling and removal. At the same time, the flexibility of the split bearing 513 ensures the smoothness of the sealing cover during rotation, effectively maintaining the airtightness of the device, which is crucial for maintaining the stability of the fermentation environment and ensuring the efficiency and quality of the tea fermentation process.

[0032] In some embodiments, the structures of the main linkage frame 503 and the secondary linkage rod 509 are exactly the same. The main linkage frame 503 and the secondary linkage rod 509 are composed of an axle collar and three intersecting rods; the threaded sleeve 409 is adapted to the threaded sealing cover 514.

[0033] In this embodiment, the main linkage frame 503 and the slave linkage rod 509 have the same structure, both consisting of a collar and three cross rods. This design ensures the stability and balance of the flipping mechanism 5. The threaded sleeve 409 is adapted to the threaded sealing cover 514, enabling the sealing cover 514 to be tightly screwed onto the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, ensuring the airtightness of the device and preventing tea leaves from leaking. During the working process, the two work together, not only ensuring the airtightness of the tea fermentation environment but also supporting the uniform flipping of tea leaves through a stable structure, which plays an important role in improving the fermentation efficiency and tea quality.

[0034] Please refer to Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 , several exhaust holes 6 are provided at one end of the lower shell 2 and the upper shell 3 close to the servo motor 501, and several intake holes 7 are provided at one end of the lower shell 2 and the upper shell 3 far from the servo motor 501; arc-shaped windshields 8 are fixedly installed at one end of the lower shell 2 and the upper shell 3 close to the servo motor 501.

[0035] The exhaust holes 6 and intake holes 7 provided on the lower shell 2 and the upper shell 3, as well as the installed arc-shaped windshields 8, jointly act on the regulation of the fermentation environment. During the working process, the intake holes 7 introduce hot and humid air flow to provide the required temperature, humidity and oxygen for tea fermentation; the exhaust holes 6 regulate the air flow inside the device to maintain dynamic balance. The arc-shaped windshields 8 guide the hot and humid gas away from the servo motor 501 to prevent the erosion of condensed water, and at the same time promote gas circulation. This design optimizes the fermentation environment, ensures the continuous and uniform enzymatic reaction, improves the tea fermentation quality, and effectively protects the safety of the servo motor 501.

[0036] A fermentation method suitable for the tea fermentation device according to any one of claims 1-7, and its fermentation steps are as follows: S1. Pretreatment according to the characteristics of tea types: For tea types that require enzymatic fermentation (such as oolong tea), perform the green-making process to activate polyphenol oxidase; for tea types that require termination of fermentation (such as green tea), perform the fixation process to ensure that the moisture content and enzyme activity of the tea leaves meet the requirements of subsequent fermentation; S2. Open the upper shell 3, unscrew the sealing cover 514 and remove the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, and evenly fill the pretreated tea leaves into the annular space between the inclined inner ventilation cylinder 402 and the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, and the filling amount does not exceed 70%, leaving a flipping space. Through the partition design of the ventilation partition plate 404, the tea leaves are distributed to multiple independent areas to avoid local accumulation; S3. Reinstall the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, press the insertion rod 507 to align the sealing cover 514 with the threaded sleeve 409 and tighten it to ensure the airtightness of the device, close the upper shell 3 and fix the bolts, and check that the exhaust holes 6 and intake holes 7 are not blocked; S4. Turn on the servo motor 501 to drive the main linkage rod 502 to drive the inclined inner and outer air-permeable cylinders to rotate at a set inclination angle. Due to centrifugal force, the tea leaves roll naturally along the cylinder wall. Combined with the flexible buffering of the inner arc baffle 407 and the outer arc baffle 408, three-dimensional turning is achieved. Adjust the rotation speed according to the type of tea: For oolong tea, use high frequency and low amplitude to simulate "withering green", and for black tea, use low speed and uniform turning. S5. Pass a humid and hot air flow containing atomized water vapor and oxygen (containing atomized water vapor and oxygen) with controllable temperature through the air inlet hole 7. The air flow forms a three-dimensional circulating air field through the air-permeable partition plate 404 and the air holes, and evenly penetrates into the gaps between the tea leaves. Adjust the opening degree of the exhaust hole 6 to maintain the dynamic temperature, humidity (such as 25 - 30 °C, RH 80% - 90% for oolong tea) and oxygen concentration inside the device to ensure continuous and uniform enzymatic reactions. S6. Regularly observe the changes in the color and aroma of the tea leaves. Sensors can be installed to monitor the internal temperature, humidity and oxygen content. By adjusting the rotation speed of the servo motor 501, the air flow parameters and the turning frequency, dynamically optimize the fermentation environment to avoid uneven fermentation caused by local overheating or lack of oxygen. S7. After reaching the target fermentation degree, turn off the servo motor 501 and the air flow supply. Let it stand for 10 - 15 minutes to allow the tea leaves to settle. Unscrew the sealing cover 514 and take out the tea leaves. Check the integrity of the tea leaf strands and the integrity of the cell structure to ensure no mechanical damage, and finally obtain high-quality fermented tea with clear soup and pure aroma.

[0037] The working principle of the present invention is as follows: First, perform pretreatment according to the type of tea. For example, oolong tea needs to activate the polyphenol oxidase activity through the withering green process, while some types of tea need to be de-enzymed to terminate the enzymatic reaction. After the pretreatment is completed, the operator rotates the bolt to open the upper shell 3. One hand fixes the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403, and the other hand turns the sealing cover 514 to rotate it away from the threaded sleeve 409. Then press the pressing plate 508 to compress the telescopic spring 506, and the inserting rod 507 separates from the inserting cylinder 410, and then the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 can be removed. Evenly load the pretreated tea leaves into the annular space between the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder 402 and the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403, and control the filling amount within 70% to reserve space for turning. The air-permeable partition plate 404 divides the annular space into multiple independent areas, and promotes the penetration of the air flow through the uniform air holes on its surface to ensure that each layer of tea leaves is in full contact with oxygen. Compared with placing the tea leaves as a whole in the space between the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 and the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder 402, dividing the space between the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder 403 and the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder 402 into multiple parts can, to a certain extent, avoid the occurrence of uneven local fermentation. After loading, reinsert the inserting rod 507 and press it obliquely downward so that the sealing cover 514 is aligned with the threaded sleeve 409 and then tighten it to ensure the airtightness of the device.

[0038] After closing the upper shell 3, start the flipping mechanism 5. The servo motor 501 drives the main linkage rod 502 to rotate, driving the main linkage frame 503 and the inclined inner ventilation cylinder 402 and the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403 to rotate synchronously. The secondary linkage rod 509 provides auxiliary support through the secondary linkage frame 510, and together with the main linkage frame 503, it constitutes a stable rotation system. Since the inclined inner ventilation cylinder 402 and the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403 are installed at an inclined angle, under the action of centrifugal force, the tea leaves roll up and down periodically along the inclined direction of the cylinder body, realizing three-dimensional flipping. During the flipping process, when the tea leaves pass through the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 on the inner rotating shaft 405 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 on the outer rotating shaft 406, the inner arc-shaped baffle 407 and the outer arc-shaped baffle 408 realize irregular free swinging under the action of the force and gravity during the flipping of the tea leaves, converting the falling inertia of the tea leaves into multi-directional buffer forces, which not only avoids damaging the cell structure of the leaves due to rigid collision, but also allows the tea leaves to slide naturally to the bottom of the cylinder, protecting the integrity of the tea green to the greatest extent.

[0039] In terms of fermentation environment regulation, a mixture of hot air, atomized water vapor and oxygen with controllable temperature is introduced through the air inlet 7. The air flow passes through the ventilation holes on the surface of the ventilation partition plate 404, the inclined inner ventilation cylinder 402 and the inclined outer ventilation cylinder 403, forming a three-dimensional circulating air field. Moisture and oxygen uniformly penetrate into the gaps between the tea leaves, activating the enzyme activity and maintaining the continuity of the enzymatic reaction. Observe the color and aroma changes of the tea leaves regularly. Sensors can be installed on the fermentation tank to monitor the internal temperature, humidity and oxygen content. The exhaust hole 6 and the arc-shaped wind blocking block 8 work together to direct the hot and humid gas away from the servo motor 501, preventing the condensate from eroding the motor components, and at the same time maintaining the dynamic balance of temperature, humidity and oxygen concentration in the device by adjusting the exhaust rate. After reaching the target fermentation degree, turn off the servo motor 501 and the air flow supply. Let it stand for 10 - 15 minutes to allow the tea leaves to settle, then unscrew the sealing cover 514 and take out the tea leaves.

[0040] According to the fermentation requirements of different tea types, the rotation speed of the inclined cylinder can be adjusted. For example, oolong tea uses high-frequency and low-amplitude rotation to simulate the traditional "wave green" process, while black tea uses low-speed rotation combined with a hot and humid environment to promote uniform oxidation. The partition design of the ventilation partition plate 404 further optimizes the air flow distribution. Combined with the centrifugal flipping of the inclined cylinder, it completely avoids the cell rupture and aromatic substance dissipation caused by traditional mechanical stirring. Finally, through the synergistic effect of the mechanical structure and intelligent environment regulation, high-quality fermented tea with complete tea strips, bright soup color and rich aroma levels is produced.

[0041] The above are only specific embodiments of the present invention, but the technical features of the present invention are not limited thereto. Any simple changes, equivalent replacements or modifications made based on the present invention to solve basically the same technical problems and achieve basically the same technical effects are all covered by the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A tea fermentation device, characterized in that, It includes a base and a lower shell fixedly installed on the base. A upper shell adapted to the lower shell is bolted above the lower shell. An anti-caking structure is arranged in the inner cavity of the lower shell; The anti-caking structure includes a cylinder bottom. An inclined inner air-permeable cylinder and an inclined outer air-permeable cylinder are fixedly installed on the cylinder bottom from the inside to the outside in sequence. The inclined inner air-permeable cylinder and the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder are located on the same axis. A number of air-permeable partition plates are fixedly installed between the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder and the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder; An inner rotating shaft and an outer rotating shaft are rotatably connected between two air-permeable partition plates from the inside to the outside in sequence. The inner rotating shaft and the outer rotating shaft are both in the shape of an arc strip. An inner arc-shaped baffle is fixedly installed on the inner rotating shaft, and an outer arc-shaped baffle is fixedly installed on the outer rotating shaft; The number of the inner rotating shaft, the outer rotating shaft, the inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle is several, and the inner rotating shaft and the outer rotating shaft respectively correspond to the inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle one by one.

2. A tea fermentation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A threaded sleeve is fixedly installed at one end of the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder away from the cylinder bottom; A socket cylinder is fixedly installed at the center of the bottom of the cylinder bottom.

3. A tea fermentation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A number of uniformly distributed circular air-permeable holes are opened on the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder, the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder and the air-permeable partition plates; There are gaps between the inner arc-shaped baffle, the outer arc-shaped baffle and the inclined inner air-permeable cylinder, the inclined outer air-permeable cylinder and the air-permeable partition plates; There is a gap between the inner arc-shaped baffle and the outer arc-shaped baffle.

4. A tea fermentation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A flipping mechanism is arranged on the lower shell. The flipping mechanism includes a servo motor fixedly installed on the lower shell. The output end of the servo motor is fixedly installed with a main linkage rod penetrating the lower shell. The main linkage rod is connected to the lower shell by a bearing. A main linkage frame is fixedly installed at one end of the main linkage rod away from the servo motor; An L-shaped mounting block is fixedly installed on the main linkage frame. An inclined spring box is fixedly installed on the L-shaped mounting block. A chute is symmetrically opened on the inclined spring box. A telescopic spring is fixedly installed at the bottom of the inner cavity of the inclined spring box. The upper inclined end of the telescopic spring is fixedly installed with a plug rod slidably connected to the inclined spring box. The lower inclined end of the plug rod is fixedly installed with a pressing plate penetrating the chute.

5. A tea fermentation device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The flipping mechanism further includes a secondary linkage rod connected to the lower shell by a bearing. The secondary linkage rod penetrates the lower shell. A secondary linkage frame is fixedly installed at one end of the secondary linkage rod. A positioning block is fixedly installed on the outer circular surface of the secondary linkage frame. An inclined positioning rod is fixedly installed on the positioning block. An opening and closing bearing is fixedly installed at one end of the inclined positioning rod away from the positioning block. The inclined positioning rod is fixedly connected to the inner ring of the opening and closing bearing. A threaded sealing cover is fixedly installed on the outer ring of the opening and closing bearing.

6. A tea fermentation device according to claim 2 or 5, characterized in that: The structures of the main linkage frame and the secondary linkage rod are completely the same. The main linkage frame and the secondary linkage rod are composed of an axle ring and three intersecting rods; The threaded sleeve is adapted to the threaded sealing cover.

7. A tea fermentation device according to claim 1, characterized in that: A number of exhaust holes are opened at one end of the lower shell and the upper shell close to the servo motor. A number of air inlet holes are opened at one end of the lower shell and the upper shell away from the servo motor; Arc-shaped wind shielding blocks are fixedly installed at one end of the lower shell and the upper shell close to the servo motor.

8. A fermentation method applicable to the tea fermentation device according to any one of claims 1-7, and the fermentation steps are as follows: S1. Pretreatment according to the characteristics of tea types: For tea types that require enzymatic fermentation (such as oolong tea), perform the "zuoqing" process to activate polyphenol oxidase; for tea types that require fermentation termination (such as green tea), perform fixation to ensure that the moisture content and enzyme activity of the tea leaves meet the requirements of subsequent fermentation; S2. Open the upper shell, unscrew the sealing cover and remove the obliquely placed outer ventilation cylinder. Uniformly fill the pretreated tea leaves into the annular space between the obliquely placed inner ventilation cylinder and the obliquely placed outer ventilation cylinder, with the filling amount not exceeding 70%, leaving room for flipping. Through the partition design of the ventilation partition board, the tea leaves are distributed into multiple independent areas to avoid local accumulation; S3. Reinstall the obliquely placed outer ventilation cylinder, press the insertion rod to align the sealing cover with the threaded sleeve and tighten it to ensure the airtightness of the device. Close the upper shell and fix the bolts, and check that the exhaust hole and the intake hole are unblocked; S4. Start the servo motor, drive the main linkage rod to drive the obliquely placed inner and outer ventilation cylinders to rotate at a set inclination angle, and make the tea leaves roll naturally along the cylinder wall by centrifugal force. Combined with the flexible buffering of the inner arc baffle and the outer arc baffle, three-dimensional flipping is realized. Adjust the rotation speed according to the tea type: oolong tea adopts high-frequency and low-amplitude to simulate "wave greening", and black tea adopts low-speed and uniform flipping; S5. Pass in a warm and humid air flow with controllable temperature (including atomized water vapor and oxygen) through the intake hole. The air flow forms a three-dimensional circulating wind field through the ventilation partition board and the ventilation holes, and evenly penetrates into the gaps between the tea leaves. Adjust the opening degree of the exhaust hole to maintain the dynamic temperature, humidity (such as 25-30°C, RH 80% - 90% for oolong tea) and oxygen concentration inside the device to ensure continuous and uniform enzymatic reactions; S6. Regularly observe the changes in the color and aroma of the tea leaves. Sensors can be installed to monitor the internal temperature, humidity and oxygen content. By adjusting the rotation speed of the servo motor, air flow parameters and flipping frequency, dynamically optimize the fermentation environment to avoid uneven fermentation caused by local overheating or oxygen deficiency; S7. After reaching the target fermentation degree, turn off the servo motor and the air flow supply. Let it stand for 10 - 15 minutes to allow the tea leaves to settle. Unscrew the sealing cover and take out the tea leaves. Check the integrity of the tea leaf strands and the integrity of the cell structure to ensure no mechanical damage, and finally obtain high-quality fermented tea with clear soup color and pure aroma.

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