Automatic traditional Chinese medicine decocting method

Abstract

The invention discloses an automatic traditional Chinese medicine decoction method, which belongs to the technical field of traditional Chinese medicine decoction, and comprises the following steps: acquiring prescription information, dispensing various medicinal materials according to the prescription information, and putting the dispensed medicinal materials into a decoction container; the control system determines decoction parameters according to the prescription information; the control system controls a gland mechanism arranged in the decocting unit to move to a feeding opening of the decocting container and seal the feeding opening; and the control system controls the water outlet piece of the gland mechanism to add water into the decocting container for decocting. According to the medicinal material decocting device, medicinal materials can be extruded while being decocted, so that the medicinal materials can be better decocted during decoction, the residual medicinal materials in the decocted medicinal materials are reduced, and the medicinal material decocting efficiency is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention belongs to the technical field of Chinese medicine decoction, and in particular relates to an automatic Chinese medicine decoction method. Background Art

[0002] After Chinese medicinal materials are decocted at high temperature in water, the active ingredients in the Chinese medicinal materials are fully released into the medicinal liquid, which can improve the medicinal properties of the active ingredients in the medicine. Then, the medicinal residue is removed to obtain a Chinese medicinal decoction that can be taken by the patient, or the medicinal liquid after removing the medicinal residue is further concentrated and dried to obtain a Chinese medicinal powder that can be taken by the patient. Chinese medicinal decoctions and Chinese medicinal powders can fully meet the needs of Chinese medicine syndrome differentiation and treatment, have the characteristics of fast efficacy and easy absorption, and are widely used in Chinese medicine clinical practice.

[0003] When decocting Chinese medicinal materials, the medicinal materials and water are placed in a decoction pot, and the decoction pot is heated by a decoction unit, so that the medicinal materials are decocted at high temperature in the decoction pot until the medicinal properties of the medicinal materials are decocted out.

[0004] The current method of decocting Chinese medicine at different temperatures means that some medicinal properties will remain inside the herbs after decoction is completed. In order to utilize the remaining medicinal properties, the herbs need to be decocted again, which makes the decoction efficiency low.

[0005] In view of this, the present invention is proposed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In order to solve at least some of the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides a method for automatically decocting traditional Chinese medicine, which can add water or replenish hot water into the interior of a decoction pot placed on a decoction heating device, thereby improving the accuracy of water addition and reducing the workload of staff. At the same time, when the decoction pot is heated and decocted, when there is a lack of water in the decoction pot, hot water can be replenished into the interior of the decoction pot without opening the lid.

[0007] The basic concept of the technical solution adopted in the present invention is:

[0008] A method for automatically decocting traditional Chinese medicine comprises the following steps:

[0009] Obtain prescription information, adjust various medicinal materials according to the prescription information, and put the adjusted medicinal materials into the decoction container;

[0010] The control system determines the decoction parameters based on the prescription information;

[0011] The control system controls the capping mechanism provided in the boiling unit to move to the feeding port of the boiling container and close the feeding port;

[0012] The control system controls the water outlet part of the capping mechanism to add water into the boiling container for boiling.

[0013] Furthermore, when the cover mechanism closes the inlet of the boiling container, the water outlet of the water outlet member is in communication with the interior of the boiling container;

[0014] The water outlet is connected to a water supply mechanism, and the water supply mechanism supplies hot water to the water outlet.

[0015] Furthermore, the cover pressing mechanism includes a pot cover for closing the cooking container and a pressure plate movably arranged under the pot cover;

[0016] The control system controls the pot cover to close the feeding port of the decoction container and starts decoction, and then continuously or intermittently controls the pressing plate to move up and down in the decoction container to squeeze the medicinal materials.

[0017] Furthermore, the number of extrusions and the frequency of extrusions are set according to the prescription information;

[0018] The pressing plate squeezes the medicinal materials in the decoction container according to the set squeezing times and squeezing frequency.

[0019] Furthermore, the following steps are included:

[0020] After boiling is completed, the position of the pressing plate is detected;

[0021] If the pressing plate is located at the upper part of the inner space of the boiling container, the control system controls the water supply mechanism to supply water to flush the pressing plate;

[0022] If the pressing plate is located at the bottom of the boiling container, the control system controls the pressing plate to be lifted above the liquid level in the boiling container, and then controls the water supply mechanism to supply water into the boiling container to clean the pressing plate.

[0023] Furthermore, when the pressure plate is located at the upper part of the inner space of the boiling container, the height of the pressure plate is lower than the height of the water outlet.

[0024] Furthermore, the control system controls the capping mechanism to move to a distance from the inlet of the boiling container after boiling is completed, takes the boiling container out of the boiling unit and moves it to the next process.

[0025] Furthermore, before delivering the decoction container to the decoction unit, it is detected whether there is an idle heating mechanism on the decoction unit;

[0026] If available, place the decoction container on the idle heating mechanism;

[0027] If not, the boiling container is temporarily stored in the storage space below the heating mechanism. When the heating mechanism becomes idle, the boiling container temporarily stored in the storage space is placed on the idle heating mechanism.

[0028] Furthermore, after the medicinal materials are adjusted, the adjusted medicinal materials are reviewed;

[0029] If the verification result is correct, the medicinal materials are put into the decoction container;

[0030] If the review result is wrong, the medicinal materials will be re-adjusted until the review result is correct.

[0031] Furthermore, after the medicinal materials are reviewed, the medicinal materials are put into a medicine bag, and the opening of the medicine bag is sealed, and finally the medicine bag filled with the medicinal materials is put into the decoction container.

[0032] After adopting the above technical solution, the present invention has the following beneficial effects compared with the prior art.

[0033] 1. During the decoction process, squeezing the medicinal materials can speed up the extraction of the medicinal properties of the medicinal materials, making the decoction of the Chinese herbal medicine more concentrated, reducing the waste of the medicinal properties of the medicinal materials, reducing the number of decoctions of the medicinal materials, and improving the efficiency of decoction;

[0034] 2. The automatic decoction method of traditional Chinese medicine of the present invention improves the degree of automation of traditional Chinese medicine decoction, reduces the tediousness and errors of manual operation, and greatly improves the efficiency and accuracy of decoction;

[0035] 3. During the decoction process, the system can accurately control parameters such as water intake and heating temperature, and monitor the decoction status in real time to ensure that the decoction process meets the requirements of the prescription and improve the decoction effect; when adding water to the decoction container, the pressing plate can be flushed to flush the remaining liquid medicine into the decoction container, reducing the waste of liquid medicine, while keeping the pressing plate clean and reducing the problem of bacteria breeding on the pressing plate and contaminating the liquid medicine.

[0036] The specific embodiments of the present invention will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The accompanying drawings are part of the present invention and are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention. The exemplary embodiments of the present invention and their descriptions are used to explain the present invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the present invention. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments. For those of ordinary skill in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without inventive effort. In the accompanying drawings:

[0038] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the structural layout of the automatic Chinese medicine decoction system of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the decoction and heating device of the present invention;

[0040] Figure 3 It is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the capping mechanism of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the capping mechanism of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 5 is a top view of the capping mechanism of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The cross-sectional view along AA in the middle;

[0044] Figure 7 It is a structural schematic diagram of the upper surface of the pot cover in the cover pressing mechanism of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 8 It is a structural schematic diagram of the lower surface of the pot cover in the cover pressing mechanism of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 9 It is a schematic diagram of the lateral structure of the decoction and heating device of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The cross-sectional view along BB;

[0048] Figure 11 It is a structural schematic diagram of the conveying unit in the present invention;

[0049] Figure 12 It is a schematic flow chart of the automatic decoction method of traditional Chinese medicine of the present invention.

[0050] In the figure: 100, adjustment and verification unit; 101, automatic adjustment device; 102, manual verification device; 200, boiling unit; 201, frame; 202, upper truss; 203, lower truss; 204, heating mechanism; 2041, housing; 2042, induction cooker; 2043, positioning block; 205, lid pressing mechanism; 2051, fixing plate; 20511, guide sleeve; 2052, pot cover; 2053, first lifting assembly; 20531, cylinder; 20532, fixing block; 20533, pipe through hole ; 2054, pressure plate; 20541, through hole; 2055, second lifting assembly; 20551, electric cylinder; 20552, mounting sleeve; 20553, connecting rod; 2056, guide rod; 20561, limiting ring; 206, water supply mechanism; 2057, nozzle; 2058, tee pipe; 2061, water outlet section; 2062, water inlet section; 2063, water pump; 2064, flow meter; 207, temperature sensor; 300, cleaning unit; 400, conveying unit; 401, conveying section; 402, elevator.

[0051] It should be noted that these drawings and textual descriptions are not intended to limit the conceptual scope of the present invention in any way, but rather to illustrate the concept of the present invention for those skilled in the art by referring to specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] In order to make the purpose, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention. The following embodiments are used to illustrate the present invention but are not used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0053] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "inside", "outside", etc., indicating directions or positional relationships, are based on the directions or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific direction, be constructed and operated in a specific direction. Therefore, they cannot be understood as limiting the present invention.

[0054] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood broadly. For example, they may refer to fixed, detachable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; and direct or indirect connections through an intermediary. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0055] like Figures 1 to 12 As shown, the present invention discloses an automatic Chinese medicine decoction system and an automatic Chinese medicine decoction method.

[0056] The automatic Chinese medicine decoction system includes a decoction pot, a dispensing and verification unit 100, a decoction unit 200, a cleaning unit 300, and a conveying unit 400. The dispensing and verification unit 100 is located upstream of the decoction unit 200, and the cleaning unit 300 is located downstream of the decoction unit 200. The conveying unit 400 is used to move the decoction pot between the dispensing and verification unit 100, the decoction unit 200, and the cleaning unit 300.

[0057] In this embodiment, the dispensing and review unit 100 includes an automatic dispensing device 101 that can intelligently dispense medicinal materials according to a prescription, and a manual review device 102 that checks whether the dispensed medicinal materials are wrong and makes corrections. The automatic dispensing device 101 is located upstream of the manual review device 102. The dispensing and review unit 100 is also equipped with a prescription binding and decoction piece dispensing system, and the prescription binding and decoction piece dispensing system is signal-connected to the automatic dispensing device 101. By entering the prescription information into the prescription binding and decoction piece dispensing system, the prescription binding and decoction piece dispensing system sends the prescription information to the automatic dispensing device 101, and the automatic dispensing device 101 can mix and dispense medicinal materials according to the prescription information.

[0058] After the automatic dispensing device 101 completes blending of the medicinal materials, the blended medicinal materials are sent to the manual review device 102 for manual review. After verification by the manual review device 102, if the blended medicinal materials are correct, the blended medicinal materials are placed into a medicine bag and placed into the decoction pot. If the blended medicinal materials are incorrect, re-adjustment is required. The prescription binding and decoction piece dispensing system automatically cancels the prescription corresponding to the Chinese medicine and prompts the person to re-enter the prescription.

[0059] In the present invention, the decoction pot includes an inner pot and an outer pot. The inner pot can be inserted into the outer pot. A drainage hole is provided on the bottom side wall of the inner pot for draining the medicinal liquid from the inner pot. When the decoction pot is used to decoct medicinal materials, the medicinal materials are placed into the inner pot of the decoction pot.

[0060] The automatic Chinese medicine decoction system is also equipped with a control system. The control system is equipped with sensors that can obtain status signals and sensors that execute commands on all devices in the automatic Chinese medicine decoction system. It is used to obtain the working status of each device and control each device to perform actions independently.

[0061] In the automatic Chinese medicine decoction system, the decoction process of Chinese medicinal materials is achieved by a plurality of separate decoction pots that continuously circulate in the conveying unit 400. Each step of the Chinese medicine decoction process is completed by a specific device at a specific location to process the Chinese medicine in the decoction pot.

[0062] The prescription of traditional Chinese medicine can also record the different requirements of each step of the decoction process when decocting the Chinese medicine slices of the prescription. For example, the decoction time of the Chinese medicinal materials, the decoction heat method and the decoction temperature, etc. According to each entered prescription information, the control system adjusts the processing technology of each device for the Chinese medicine in the decoction pot, for example, the length of time the decoction pot stays at each device and the flow order between each device, etc. In this way, it is possible to decoct Chinese medicine decoctions of multiple prescriptions at the same time, and to prepare the correct decoction process according to different prescriptions, and to control the workload of each decoction process equipment to ensure that the efficiency of the entire production line is high when decocting Chinese medicine slices in large quantities.

[0063] The decoction unit 200 is used to heat the decoction pot filled with medicinal materials and water to complete the decoction process of the medicinal materials. The cleaning unit 300 is used to clean the decoction pot after decoction is completed.

[0064] Reference Figures 2 to 10 , Figures 2 to 10 The structure of the boiling unit 200 is shown in detail.

[0065] The boiling unit 200 includes a vertically arranged rectangular frame 201. An upper truss 202 extending horizontally outward is disposed on one sidewall of the frame 201 at the top, and a lower truss 203 extending horizontally outward is disposed at the bottom. The upper truss 202 and the lower truss 203 are disposed opposite each other. Both the upper truss 202 and the lower truss 203 are fixed to the frame 201, and the connection between the upper truss 202 and the lower truss 203 and the frame 201 can be bolted or welded.

[0066] A heating mechanism 204 is provided between the upper trusses 202 and the lower trusses 203. The heating mechanism 204 is fixed to the frame 201. The connection between the heating mechanism 204 and the frame 201 can be bolted or welded. A space is provided between the heating mechanism 204 and the upper trusses 202. A space is also provided between the heating mechanism 204 and the lower trusses 203.

[0067] The space between the heating mechanism 204 and the upper truss 202 is used to place a decoction pot on the heating mechanism 204. When decocting medicine, the decoction pot filled with the medicine bag is placed on the heating mechanism 204, which heats the decoction pot. The space between the heating mechanism 204 and the lower truss 203 can accommodate the decoction pot. When a decoction pot is delivered to the decoction device for heating, if there is already a decoction pot on the heating mechanism 204, the remaining decoction pot can be temporarily stored on the lower truss 203.

[0068] A conveyor line can also be set up in the space left between the heating mechanism 204 and the lower truss 203 to transport the frying pots. The frying pots that have not been frying can be sent to the frying device for heating, and the frying pots that have been frying can be sent to the next process through the conveyor line.

[0069] In this embodiment, a cover mechanism 205 is provided on the upper truss 202. When the frying pot is placed on the heating mechanism 204, the cover mechanism 205 closes the inlet of the frying pot.

[0070] A control circuit module is also provided on the frame 201, and the control circuit module is signal-connected with the capping mechanism 205 and the heating mechanism 204. The control circuit module is used to send control instructions to the capping mechanism 205 and the heating mechanism 204, and control the heating mechanism 204 and the capping mechanism 205 to perform corresponding actions according to the control instructions.

[0071] Specifically, the lid pressing mechanism 205 includes a horizontally arranged fixed plate 2051 fixed to the lower surface of the upper truss 202. A pot lid 2052 is movably arranged below the fixed plate 2051. A first lifting assembly 2053 is disposed between the pot lid 2052 and the fixed plate 2051. The first lifting assembly 2053 is connected to the fixed plate 2051 and the pot lid 2052, respectively, and is used to raise or lower the pot lid 2052.

[0072] The height points at which the pot cover 2052 can be raised and lowered include a highest point and a lowest point.

[0073] When the pot cover 2052 is at the highest point, the pot cover 2052 is located above the top of the frying pot placed on the heating mechanism 204, so that the frying pot can be placed on the heating mechanism 204 or moved away from the heating mechanism 204.

[0074] When the pot cover 2052 is at the lowest point, the pot cover 2052 can be pressed on the top end surface of the frying pot placed on the heating mechanism 204, thereby closing the top loading port of the frying pot.

[0075] A pressure plate 2054 is movably positioned directly below the pot lid 2052. In this embodiment, the pressure plate 2054 is circular in shape and can extend into the interior of the inner support assembly 120 of the frying pan to compress the medicine bag on the bottom plate 124. A second lifting assembly 2055 is disposed between the pressure plate 2054 and the fixed plate 2051. The second lifting assembly 2055 is fixedly connected to the fixed plate 2051 and the pressure plate 2054, respectively. Bolts secure the second lifting assembly 2055 to the fixed plate 2051 and the pressure plate 2054. The second lifting assembly 2055 is used to raise or lower the pressure plate 2054.

[0076] The height points at which the pressure plate 2054 is raised and lowered include a first height point, a second height point, and a third height point.

[0077] The first height point is the point at which the pressure plate 2054 is raised to its highest position. When the pressure plate 2054 is at the first height point, the pressure plate 2054 is higher than the top of the frying pot placed on the heating mechanism 204, thereby allowing the frying pot to be placed on or removed from the heating mechanism 204. When the pressure plate 2054 is at the first height point, the pressure plate 2054 is lower than the pot cover 2052 when it is at its highest position.

[0078] The second height point is the height point at which the pressing plate 2054 is located at the top of the internal space of the decocting pot. When the pressing plate 2054 is at the second height point, the pressing plate 2054 and the medicinal materials placed in the decocting pot are in a separated state.

[0079] The third height point is the height point at which the pressing plate 2054 is located at the bottom of the inner space of the frying pot. When the pressing plate 2054 is located at the third height point, the pressing plate 2054 is in a state of squeezing the medicinal materials inside the frying pot.

[0080] During actual use, the number of times the pressure plate 2054 squeezes the medicine bag can be adjusted according to actual needs. In this embodiment, during the decoction of medicinal materials, the pressure plate 2054 squeezes the medicine bag in the decoction pot three times. When the decoction pot 100 is placed on the heating mechanism 204, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to descend to the third height point to squeeze the medicine bag in the decoction pot for the first time. After the squeezing is completed, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to rise to the second height point. When the medicinal materials in the decoction pot 100 are almost decocted, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to descend to the third height point again to squeeze the medicine bag for the second time. After the squeezing is completed, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to rise to the second height point. When the medicinal materials in the decoction pot 100 are completely decocted, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to descend to the third height point again to squeeze the medicine bag for the third time. After the squeezing is completed, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to rise to the first height point, and the pot cover 2052 is lifted to the highest point, so that the pot cover 2052 opens the feeding port of the decoction pot, and the pressure plate 2054 is separated from the decoction pot.

[0081] In this embodiment, a plurality of guide rods 2056 are provided between the pressure plate 2054 and the fixed plate 2051. In this embodiment, there are four guide rods 2056, and the four guide rods 2056 are arranged in a circular array with the central axis of the pot cover 2052 as the centerline. One end of the guide rod 2056 is fixed to the pressure plate 2054, and the other end of the guide rod 2056 extends above the fixed plate 2051. The shaft of the guide rod 2056 passes through the pot cover 2052 and the fixed plate 2051 in sequence. A perforation for the guide rod 2056 is provided at a position on the fixed plate 2051 opposite to the guide rod 2056. The diameter of the perforation is larger than the rod diameter of the guide rod 2056. The guide rod 2056 is slidably connected to the fixed plate 2051. Similarly, a through hole for the guide rod 2056 to pass through is opened at a position on the pot cover 2052 opposite to the guide rod 2056. The diameter of the through hole is larger than the rod diameter of the guide rod 2056, and the guide rod 2056 is slidably connected to the pot cover 2052.

[0082] The same number of guide sleeves 20511 as the guide rods 2056 are fixed to the lower surface of the fixing plate 2051. The guide sleeves 20511 are arranged one-to-one with the guide rods 2056. The guide sleeves 20511 are coaxially arranged with the corresponding guide rods 2056. The guide rods 2056 pass through the inner holes of the corresponding guide sleeves 20511. The guide rods 2056 and the guide sleeves 20511 are slidably connected to each other.

[0083] Preferably, a limit ring 20561 is provided at one end of the guide rod 2056 extending above the fixed plate 2051, securing the limit ring 20561 to the guide rod 2056. The outer diameter of the limit ring 20561 is larger than the diameter of the perforation in the fixed plate 2051. When the pressure plate 2054 moves downward, the limit ring 20561 abuts against the upper surface of the fixed plate 2051, limiting the travel of the guide rod 2056 and preventing the guide rod 2056 from disengaging from the fixed plate 2051.

[0084] Specifically, the first lifting assembly 2053 includes a vertically arranged cylinder 20531. The cylinder body of the cylinder 20531 is fixedly connected to the fixed plate 2051. The piston rod of the cylinder 20531 faces the direction of the pot cover 2052. The piston rod of the cylinder 20531 is relatively fixed to the pot cover 2052. When the piston rod of the cylinder 20531 extends from the cylinder body, the piston rod of the cylinder 20531 pushes the pot cover 2052, causing the pot cover 2052 to move downward. When the piston rod of the cylinder 20531 is retracted into the cylinder body, the piston rod of the cylinder 20531 pulls the pot cover 2052, causing the pot cover 2052 to move upward.

[0085] Specifically, the second lifting assembly 2055 includes a vertically mounted electric cylinder 20551 positioned above a fixed plate 2051. A vertically mounted mounting sleeve 20552 is disposed between the cylinder body of the electric cylinder 20551 and the fixed plate 2051. One end of the mounting sleeve 20552 is secured to the fixed plate 2051, while the other end is secured to the cylinder body of the electric cylinder 20551. The push rod of the electric cylinder 20551 faces the inner hole of the mounting sleeve 20552 and extends into the interior of the mounting sleeve 20552.

[0086] A connecting rod 20553 is disposed within the inner hole of mounting sleeve 20552 and is coaxially arranged with the push rod of electric cylinder 20551. One end of connecting rod 20553 is fixedly docked with the push rod of electric cylinder 20551, while the other end of connecting rod 20553 passes through fixing plate 2051 and pot cover 2052, thereby connecting to pressure plate 2054. Connecting rod 20553 and pressure plate 2054 are fixed together using bolts.

[0087] Preferably, the central axis of the connecting rod 20553 is coaxial with the central axis of the pressure plate 2054.

[0088] When the push rod of electric cylinder 20551 extends outward from the cylinder body, it pushes connecting rod 20553, which in turn pushes pressure plate 2054, causing pressure plate 2054 to move downward. When the push rod of electric cylinder 20551 is retracted into the cylinder body, it pulls connecting rod 20553, which in turn pulls pressure plate 2054, causing pressure plate 2054 to move upward.

[0089] By using electric cylinder 20551, the output force of electric cylinder 20551 can be controlled, thereby controlling the squeezing force of pressure plate 2054 on the medicine bag. When the medicine bag is large, the output force of electric cylinder 20551 can be adjusted to increase the output force of electric cylinder 20551, thereby ensuring the squeezing effect of pressure plate 2054 on the medicine bag.

[0090] Electric cylinder 20551 is equipped with a torque sensor installed within the drive unit, such as between the motor and the load. A torque sensor is a device capable of measuring rotational torque and typically consists of an elastic element and a measuring element. When an external force acts on the elastic element, it deforms slightly. By measuring this deformation, the torque acting on the sensor can be calculated. When electric cylinder 20551 controls platen 2054 to compress the medicine package, the torque sensor detects and provides real-time feedback on the torque, ensuring stable operation under all operating conditions.

[0091] The torque value fed back by the torque sensor can be used to determine the squeezing force exerted by the pressure plate 2054 on the medicine bag. The output force of the electric cylinder 20551 is adjusted based on the size of the medicine bag and the amount of medicinal materials contained therein. By adjusting the output force of the electric cylinder 20551, the squeezing force exerted by the pressure plate 2054 on the medicine bag is adjusted to prevent excessive squeezing force exerted by the pressure plate 2054 on the medicine bag, which could damage the inner support assembly 120.

[0092] In this embodiment, a spray head 2057 is mounted on the pot lid 2052. A water supply mechanism 206 is mounted on the frame 201 and is connected to the spray head 2057. The water supply mechanism 206 is capable of supplying water to the interior of the spray head 2057. The water supplied into the spray head 2057 by the water supply mechanism 206 is then sprayed through the spray head 2057 into the decoction pot for decocting medicinal materials. The water outlet of the spray head 2057 is directed toward the pressure plate 2054, so that the water sprayed by the spray head 2057 can be sprayed onto the pressure plate 2054.

[0093] Similarly, the water supply mechanism 206 is signal-connected to the control circuit module. The control circuit module sends a control instruction to the water supply mechanism 206, and the water supply mechanism 206 performs corresponding actions according to the control instruction.

[0094] In this embodiment, there are two nozzles 2057. In actual production and processing, the number of nozzles 2057 is not limited to two and can be one, three, or more. In this embodiment, two nozzles 2057 are used as an example. The two nozzles 2057 are arranged in mirror-image relationship with the central axis of the pot cover 2052 as the centerline. The water outlet of the nozzle 2057 is located below the pot cover 2052, and the water inlet of the nozzle 2057 is located above the pot cover 2052. The nozzle 2057 extends through the pot cover 2052 and is fixedly connected to the pot cover 2052.

[0095] A tee pipe 2058 is fixed to the upper surface of the pot cover 2052. One of the interfaces of the tee pipe 2058 is used to connect to the water supply mechanism 206. Of the remaining two interfaces of the tee pipe 2058, one interface is connected to one of the nozzles 2057 through a pipe fitting, and the other interface is also connected to the other nozzle 2057 through a pipe fitting.

[0096] Specifically, the water supply mechanism 206 is fixed to the frame 201. The water supply mechanism 206 includes a water outlet section 2061, a water inlet section 2062, and a water pump 2063. One end of the water outlet section 2061 is connected to the water outlet of the water pump 2063, and the other end of the water outlet section 2061 is connected to the nozzle 2057. One end of the water inlet section 2062 is connected to the water inlet of the water pump 2063, and the other end of the water inlet section 2062 is a free end. The free end of the water inlet section 2062 is used to connect to a water source. After the water inlet section 2062 is connected to the water source, the water pump 2063 can draw water from the water source and send it to the water outlet section 2061. The water in the water outlet section 2061 is then sent along the water inlet section 2062 to the nozzle 2057. The water in the nozzle 2057 is then sprayed out and sprayed onto the pressure plate 2054.

[0097] A flow meter 2064 is installed on the water inlet section 2062. The flow meter 2064 can measure the amount of water passing through the water inlet section 2062, so as to calculate the amount of water fed into the frying pot.

[0098] The water inlet section 2062 is made of a hard pipe and is fixed to the frame 201. The water pump 2063 is also fixed to the frame 201. The water outlet section 2061 is a flexible hose. The length of the water outlet section 2061 is sufficient to ensure that the water outlet section 2061 does not separate from the nozzle 2057 during the upward and downward movement of the pot cover 2052. When the pot cover 2052 moves up and down, the water outlet section 2061 can bend and deform with the movement of the pot cover 2052.

[0099] A fixing block 20532 is provided between the piston rod of the cylinder 20531 and the pot cover 2052. The fixing block 20532 is fixedly connected to the piston rod of the cylinder 20531 and the pot cover 2052. A pipe passage hole 20533 is formed in the fixing block 20532 and extends transversely through the fixing block 20532. When connecting the water outlet section 2061 to the nozzle 2057, the water outlet section 2061 is passed through the pipe passage hole 20533 of the fixing block 20532. The pipe passage hole 20533 restricts the water outlet section 2061. When water flows through the water outlet section 2061, the vibration of the water outlet section 2061 caused by the water flow is reduced, the water outlet section 2061 is kept stable, and the possibility of separation between the water outlet section 2061 and the nozzle 2057 is reduced.

[0100] At the same time, when the cylinder 20531 pushes the pot cover 2052 to move up and down, the end of the water outlet section 2061 that is connected to the nozzle 2057 can move up and down synchronously with the pot cover 2052, avoiding the water outlet section 2061 from being pulled, thereby preventing the water outlet section 2061 from being separated from the nozzle 2057 due to the water outlet section 2061 being pulled.

[0101] Specifically, heating mechanism 204 includes a housing 2041 fixed to frame 201. The upper surface of housing 2041 is horizontal. An induction cooker 2042 is embedded within housing 2041, with the cooktop panel of induction cooker 2042 exposed from the upper surface of housing 2041. A cover mechanism 205 is located directly above induction cooker 2042.

[0102] Specifically, the cooktop of induction cooker 2042 is flush with or higher than the upper surface of housing 2041. Multiple positioning blocks 2043 are fixed to the upper surface of housing 2041, enclosing the cooktop of induction cooker 2042. When a frying pan is placed on induction cooker 2042, the bottom of the pan abuts against the positioning blocks 2043. The multiple positioning blocks 2043 restrict the position of the frying pan when placed on induction cooker 2042, ensuring that the frying pan remains in the same position each time it is placed on induction cooker 2042, ensuring that the relative position between induction cooker 2042 and the frying pan is optimal for heating.

[0103] In this embodiment, a temperature sensor 207 is mounted on the pot lid 2052. The temperature sensor 207 extends through the pot lid 2052 and extends below the pot lid 2052. When the pot lid 2052 is placed on the top of the frying pot, the temperature sensor 207 extends into the frying pot and can measure the temperature inside the frying pot. A signal connection is established between the temperature sensor 207 and the host computer.

[0104] In this embodiment, a plurality of through holes 20541 are formed on the surface of the pressure plate 2054, and the through holes 20541 are evenly distributed on the surface of the pressure plate 2054. When the pressure plate 2054 is raised and lowered by the second lifting assembly 2055, the pressure plate 2054 squeezes the medicine bag in the decoction pot, and the medicinal liquid passes through the through holes 20541 on the pressure plate 2054. When the medicinal liquid passes through the through holes 20541, the flow rate of the medicinal liquid is accelerated. Since the pressure plate 2054 is raised and lowered to stir the medicinal liquid, the flow of the medicinal liquid can flush the medicine bag, so that the medicinal properties of the medicinal materials in the medicine bag can be better decocted and the concentration of the decocted medicinal liquid is increased.

[0105] In this embodiment, there are two induction cookers 2042, which are arranged side by side on housing 2041. Correspondingly, there are also two cover pressing mechanisms 205, with one cover pressing mechanism 205 and one induction cooker 2042 forming a group. The two induction cookers 2042 are arranged side by side, and similarly, the two cover pressing mechanisms 205 are also arranged side by side.

[0106] When decocting the medicinal herbs, the decoction pot containing the medicine bag and water is placed on the cooktop of the induction cooker 2042. The induction cooker 2042 is then turned on to heat the decoction pot. After the decoction pot is placed on the cooktop of the induction cooker 2042, the first lifting assembly 2053 moves the pot lid 2052 downward, which covers the top of the decoction pot, thereby sealing the decoction pot's inlet. The second lifting assembly 2055 drives the pressure plate 2054 toward the bottom of the decoction pot, allowing the pressure plate 2054 to squeeze the medicine bag inside the decoction pot. After the pressure plate 2054 squeezes the medicine bag, the second lifting assembly 2055 lifts the pressure plate 2054, completing the extrusion of the medicine bag. During the decoction process, the second lifting component 2055 controls the pressure plate 2054 to rise and fall, thereby squeezing the medicine bag so that the medicine bag can be in more complete contact with the medicine liquid, so that the medicinal properties of the medicinal materials can be more fully decocted, and the concentration of the decoction of the medicinal materials can be increased.

[0107] When the Chinese herbal medicine decoction in the decoction pot is completely boiled and the concentration of the decoction exceeds the desired concentration, the water supply mechanism 206 is provided on the pot cover 2052, so that hot water can be added to the interior of the decoction pot to dilute the Chinese herbal medicine decoction in the decoction pot. When the decoction pot is short of water during the decoction process, the water supply mechanism 206 can also replenish water in time.

[0108] When the water supply mechanism 206 supplies hot water to the interior of the frying pot, the hot water supplied by the water supply mechanism 206 to the frying pot flows through the pressure plate 2054, thereby flushing the pressure plate 2054 and flushing the liquid medicine attached to the pressure plate 2054 into the frying pot. While supplying water to the frying pot, the water supply mechanism 206 can also clean the pressure plate 2054, thereby eliminating the need to disassemble the pressure plate 2054 for cleaning, thereby reducing the workload of cleaning the pressure plate 2054.

[0109] When the decoction device disclosed in the present invention is used to decoct medicinal materials in a decoction pot, the amount of water added to the decoction pot needs to be less than the set water addition amount, and the insufficient water is replenished into the decoction pot through the water adding mechanism 206. When the water adding mechanism 206 replenishes water into the decoction pot, the water added by the water adding mechanism 206 simultaneously flushes the pressure plate 2054, flushing the medicinal liquid attached to the pressure plate 2054 into the decoction pot, thereby eliminating the need for a subsequent cleaning step of the pressure plate 2054.

[0110] The working process of the automatic Chinese medicine decoction system of the present invention for decocting Chinese medicinal materials is as follows:

[0111] The dispensing and verification unit 100 first blends the herbs according to the prescription and verifies that the blended herbs are correct. If the blended herbs are correct, they are added to the decoction pot. The decoction pot with the herbs added is then transported to the decoction unit 200 via the conveying unit 400.

[0112] When the frying pot is delivered to the frying unit 200 by the conveying unit 400, the frying pot is placed on the stove top of the induction cooker 2042 of the frying unit 200 by manual or transport means.

[0113] After the frying pot is placed on the cooktop of the induction cooker 2042, the control system sends a control command to the lid pressing mechanism 205, which controls the first lifting assembly 2053 to push the pot lid 2052 downward until the pot lid 2052 covers the top loading port of the frying pot. When the pot lid 2052 covers the loading port of the frying pot, the pressing plate 2054 extends into the frying pot through the loading port.

[0114] The water supply mechanism 206 is started to supply water to the interior of the decoction pot until the amount of water supplied to the decoction pot reaches the set value. Finally, the electromagnetic cooker 2042 is started to heat the decoction pot, so that the electromagnetic cooker 2042 heats the decoction pot and decocts the medicinal materials in the decoction pot.

[0115] When the decoction pot is decocting the medicinal materials, the control system controls the second lifting component 2055 to drive the pressure plate 2054 to move up and down. When the pressure plate 2054 moves up and down, the medicinal materials inside the decoction pot can be squeezed.

[0116] The control system sets the number of times and frequency at which the pressure plate 2054 compresses the medicinal materials. As the decoction pot decocts the medicinal materials, the second lifting assembly 2055 drives the pressure plate 2054 to compress the medicinal materials according to the parameters set in the control system. The number of times and frequency at which the pressure plate 2054 compresses the medicinal materials are executed according to the parameters set in the control system. As the pressure plate 2054 moves up and down to compress the medicinal materials, it simultaneously drives the medicinal liquid to tumble within the decoction pot. As the medicinal liquid tumbles within the decoction pot, it flushes the medicinal materials, ensuring more complete contact between the medicinal liquid and the medicinal materials, allowing the medicinal properties of the medicinal materials to be better extracted and increasing the concentration of the medicinal liquid.

[0117] After the Chinese medicine is boiled, the pot lid 2052 of the lid-pressing mechanism 205 is moved upward by the first lifting assembly 2053 until a certain distance is left between the pot lid 2052 and the inlet of the decoction pot. The pressing plate 2054 is then moved upward by the second lifting assembly 2055 until it is completely lifted out of the decoction pot. Once the pot lid 2052 and pressing plate 2054 are separated from the decoction pot, the decoction pot is removed from the decoction unit and sent to the next step.

[0118] The decocted medicinal liquid and medicinal residue are removed from the decocting pot and the decocted medicinal liquid is packaged. After the medicinal liquid and medicinal residue are removed from the decocting pot, the decocting pot is sent to the cleaning unit 300 via the conveying unit 400. The cleaning unit 300 completely cleans the decocting pot. Finally, the conveying unit 400 sends the cleaned decocting pot to the adjustment and verification unit 100 for reuse.

[0119] Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the structure of the conveying unit 400.

[0120] Reference Figure 11 The conveying unit 400 includes multiple conveying sections 401 at different heights, with an elevator 402 located between two adjacent conveying sections 401 at different heights. When the upstream conveying section 401 conveys the frying pot to the downstream conveying section 401, the frying pot is first conveyed into the elevator 402 between the two conveying sections 401. The elevator 402 adjusts the height of the frying pot to match the height of the downstream conveying section 401 and then conveys the frying pot into the downstream conveying section 401.

[0121] The invention also discloses an automatic decoction method, which applies the decoction system disclosed in the invention.

[0122] The automatic decoction method includes the following steps:

[0123] S101. Obtain prescription information, adjust medicinal materials according to the prescription information, and place the medicinal materials into a decoction container.

[0124] Specifically, the dispensing and reviewing unit 100 obtains prescription information, and the automatic dispensing device 101 dispenses various medicinal materials according to the prescription information. After the automatic dispensing device 101 has dispensed the medicinal materials, the dispensed medicinal materials are sent to the manual reviewing device 102 for review.

[0125] The manual review device 102 reviews the prepared medicinal materials. If the review result is correct, it means that the medicinal materials prepared by the automatic dispensing device 101 match the prescription information. The prepared medicinal materials are placed in the medicine bag, the opening of the medicine bag is sealed, and finally the medicine bag filled with medicinal materials is placed in the decoction pot.

[0126] If the recheck result is incorrect, it indicates that the dispensed herbs do not match the prescription information. The automatic dispensing device 101 reacquires the prescription information and re-dispenses the herbs based on the newly acquired prescription information. The re-dispensed herbs are sent to the manual rechecking device 102 for rechecking. If the recheck result is correct, the re-dispensed herbs are placed into the medicine bag, the opening of the medicine bag is sealed, and the filled medicine bag is placed into the decoction pot. If the recheck result is still incorrect, the re-dispensing and rechecking steps are repeated until the recheck result is correct.

[0127] S102. Determine decoction parameters according to prescription information.

[0128] Specifically, the decoction unit 200 determines decoction parameters according to the prescription information, including the amount of water used for decoction, the degree of heat used for decoction, and the decoction time. Furthermore, the decoction unit 200 sets the number of squeezes and the frequency of squeezes according to the prescription information.

[0129] S103, decocting the medicinal materials according to the decoction parameters, and squeezing the medicinal materials during the decoction process.

[0130] Specifically, the prepared medicinal materials are placed in the decoction pot and then sent to the decoction unit 200. The decoction unit 200 decocts the medicinal materials according to decoction parameters. During the decoction process, the medicinal materials in the decoction pot are squeezed at the same time.

[0131] Before the frying pot is sent to the frying unit 200, it is first checked whether there is an idle heating mechanism 204 on the frying unit 200. If there is an idle heating mechanism 204, the frying pot is placed on the idle heating mechanism 204 for heating. If there is no idle heating mechanism 204, the frying pot is temporarily placed in the storage space below the heating mechanism 204. When the heating mechanism 204 becomes idle again, the frying container temporarily stored in the storage space is placed on the idle heating mechanism 204.

[0132] After the frying pot is placed on the heating mechanism 204, the pot cover 2052 and the pressing plate 2054 of the pressing mechanism 205 are lowered until the pot cover 2052 closes the inlet of the frying pot and the pressing plate 2054 extends into the interior of the frying pot;

[0133] The water supply mechanism 206 is activated to supply hot water to the interior of the nozzle 2057. Since the water outlet of the nozzle 2057 is located below the pot cover 2052, the water sprayed from the nozzle 2057 is added to the interior of the frying pot. While the water is being supplied to the interior of the frying pot, the water level in the frying pot is detected at the same time.

[0134] When the water volume in the frying pot reaches the set frying water volume, the water supply stops.

[0135] The heating mechanism 204 is started and heats the decoction pot according to the decoction temperature mode and decoction time, and begins to decoct the medicinal materials.

[0136] Before water is supplied to the interior of the frying pot, the following steps are also included:

[0137] First, the position of the pressure plate 2054 is detected;

[0138] If the pressure plate 2054 is located at the top of the internal space of the frying pot, the water supply mechanism 206 directly supplies water to the nozzle 2057, and the water supplied to the nozzle 2057 is directly supplied to the interior of the frying pot. When the water is sprayed out through the nozzle 2057, the sprayed water can rinse the pressure plate 2054.

[0139] If the pressure plate 2054 is located at the bottom of the inner space of the frying pot, it is necessary to first lift the pressure plate 2054 to the top of the inner space of the frying pot. When the pressure plate 2054 reaches the top of the inner space of the frying pot, the water supply mechanism 206 starts to supply water to the nozzle 2057 and supply water to the interior of the frying pot.

[0140] During the decoction of the medicinal materials, the capping mechanism 205 controls the pressing plate 2054 to press the medicinal materials according to the obtained pressing times and pressing frequencies.

[0141] Specifically, in this embodiment, the pressure plate 2054 squeezes the medicinal material in the decoction pot at least three times: before decoction begins, near the end of decoction, and after decoction is complete. When the decoction pot 100 is placed on the heating mechanism 204, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to descend to the third height point to squeeze the medicinal material in the decoction pot for the first time. After the squeezing is completed, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to rise to the second height point. When the medicinal material in the decoction pot 100 is almost decocted, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to descend to the third height point again to squeeze the medicinal material for the second time. After the squeezing is completed, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to rise to the second height point. When the medicinal materials in the decoction pot 100 are completely decocted, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to descend to the third height point again to squeeze the medicine bag for the third time. After the squeezing is completed, the pressure plate 2054 is controlled to rise to the first height point, and the pot cover 2052 is lifted to the highest point, so that the pot cover 2052 opens the feeding port of the decoction pot, and the pressure plate 2054 is separated from the decoction pot.

[0142] S104: After the decoction is completed, the decoction container is sent to the next step through a conveying unit.

[0143] Specifically, after the frying is completed, the pot cover 2052 is first lifted to the highest position, and the pressing plate 2054 is simultaneously lifted to the highest position, until both the pot cover 2052 and the pressing plate 2054 are lifted above the inlet of the frying pot;

[0144] When the pot cover 2052 and the pressing plate 2054 are lifted to above the inlet of the frying pot, the frying pot is removed from the heating mechanism, placed on the conveying unit 400, and sent to the next step through the conveying unit 400.

[0145] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and does not constitute any form of limitation to the present invention. Although the present invention has been disclosed as above in terms of a preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the present invention. Any technician familiar with this patent can make slight changes or modifications to equivalent embodiments of equivalent changes using the above-mentioned technical contents without departing from the scope of the technical solution of the present invention. The implementation schemes in the above-mentioned embodiments can also be further combined or replaced. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes and modifications made to the above-mentioned embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the content of the technical solution of the present invention are still within the scope of the solution of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for automatically decocting traditional Chinese medicine, characterized in that: The steps include: Obtain prescription information, adjust various medicinal materials according to the prescription information, and put the adjusted medicinal materials into the decoction container; The control system determines the decoction parameters based on the prescription information; The control system controls the capping mechanism (205) provided in the boiling unit (200) to move to the feeding port of the boiling container and seal the feeding port; The control system controls the water outlet component of the capping mechanism (205) to add water into the boiling container for boiling.

2. The method for automatically decocting Chinese medicine according to claim 1, characterized in that: When the capping mechanism (205) closes the inlet of the boiling container, the water outlet of the water outlet member is communicated with the interior of the boiling container; The water outlet is connected to a water delivery mechanism (206), and the water delivery mechanism (206) delivers hot water into the water outlet.

3. A method for automatically decocting Chinese medicine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The cover pressing mechanism (205) comprises a pot cover (2052) for closing the cooking container and a pressing plate (2054) movably arranged below the pot cover (2052); After the control system controls the pot cover (2052) to close the inlet of the decoction container and start decoction, it continuously or intermittently controls the pressing plate (2054) to move up and down in the decoction container to squeeze the medicinal materials.

4. The method for automatically decocting Chinese medicine according to claim 3, characterized in that: Set the number of extrusions and the frequency of extrusions according to the prescription information; The pressing plate (2054) squeezes the medicinal materials in the decoction container according to the set squeezing times and squeezing frequency.

5. The method for automatically decocting Chinese medicine according to claim 3, characterized in that: It also includes the following steps: After the boiling is completed, the position of the pressing plate (2054) is detected; If the pressing plate (2054) is located at the upper portion of the internal space of the boiling container, the control system controls the water supply mechanism (206) to supply water to flush the pressing plate (2054); If the pressure plate (2054) is located at the bottom of the boiling container, the control system controls the pressure plate (2054) to be raised to a level higher than the liquid level in the boiling container, and then the control system controls the water supply mechanism (206) to supply water to the boiling container to clean the pressure plate (2054).

6. The method for automatically decocting Chinese medicine according to claim 5, characterized in that: When the pressure plate (2054) is located at the upper part of the internal space of the boiling container, the height of the pressure plate (2054) is lower than the height of the water outlet.

7. The method for automatically decocting Chinese medicine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control system controls the capping mechanism (205) to move to a distance from the inlet of the decoction container after the decoction is completed, and removes the decoction container from the decoction unit (200) and moves it to the next process.

8. The method for automatically decocting Chinese medicine according to claim 1, characterized in that: Before delivering the decoction container to the decoction unit (200), detecting whether there is an idle heating mechanism (204) on the decoction unit (200); If yes, place the decoction container on the idle heating mechanism (204); If not, the decoction container is temporarily stored in the storage space below the heating mechanism (204), and when the heating mechanism (204) becomes idle, the decoction container temporarily stored in the storage space is placed on the idle heating mechanism (204).

9. A method for automatically decocting traditional Chinese medicine according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that: After the medicinal materials are prepared, they are reviewed; If the verification result is correct, the medicinal materials are put into the decoction container; If the review result is wrong, the medicinal materials will be re-adjusted until the review result is correct.

10. The method for automatically decocting traditional Chinese medicine according to claim 9, characterized in that: After the medicinal materials are reviewed, they are placed in medicine bags, the openings of which are sealed, and finally the filled medicine bags are placed in the decoction container.

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