Maturity detection device for corn sorting

Abstract

The invention belongs to the technical field of corn conveying detection, and particularly relates to a corn sorting maturity detection device which comprises a fruit picking table and a temporary storage box. When the corn maturity is detected, corn is poured on a fruit picking table to be manually picked, rotten fruits are placed in a temporary storage box, and the corn is conveyed through a roller driven by a first motor. When the corns are conveyed to the diversion belts, the diversion belts of the four channels divide the corns into four groups, the corns are placed in the grooves of the V-shaped belts according to different positions, the corns are conveyed to the grooves of the wave belt through the V-shaped belts, and the corns enter the intelligent sorting machine to be detected through slope conveying of the wave belt. The intelligent sorting machine detects corn through a quality meter and an optical camera which are installed in the intelligent sorting machine, at the moment, the corn is horizontally placed through a net support on a tray, and a supporting and connecting face enables the optical camera and near-infrared light to be detected from the bottom through a light-transmitting tray and a hollowed-out net support structure. And the detected corns are sent out through fruit cups on the weighing conveying belt.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of corn conveying and detection technology, specifically to a corn sorting and maturity detection device. Background Technology

[0002] Corn maturity detection is a crucial step in agricultural production. By scientifically assessing the physiological maturity of corn kernels, it provides a basis for decision-making in precision harvesting, quality control, and storage management. This technology can effectively avoid yield losses caused by premature harvesting or mold risks caused by late harvesting. It is of great significance for ensuring food security, optimizing processing quality (such as meeting starch and moisture content standards), and improving farmers' economic benefits. In particular, it has become a core technological support for improving the efficiency of the industrial chain in large-scale planting and the development of smart agriculture.

[0003] Existing technologies have the following shortcomings: Currently, the intelligent maturity detection devices widely used in corn sorting primarily achieve non-destructive detection through the integration of optical cameras and near-infrared spectroscopy. However, the core structure of this equipment has a significant flaw: its material conveying tray uses a fully enclosed solid plate design. This opaque material completely blocks the bottom area where the kernels contact the tray during corn transport. Because the corn moves with only one side attached to the tray during transport, nearly 30%–40% of the surface area (including the crucial germ area) remains uncovered by the optical sensors. This structural obstruction means the detection system can only collect reflectance spectral data from a portion of the corn's surface, causing deviations in the calculation of maturity indicators (such as starch conversion rate and moisture content), ultimately affecting sorting accuracy. In particular, the false negative rate for bicolor corn or locally moldy corn can be as high as 15%. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the insufficient detection accuracy of existing technologies, this invention provides a corn maturity detection device, which solves the problem of poor detection accuracy caused by the difficulty in detecting the corn grafting surface.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a corn sorting and maturity detection device, comprising a sorting platform for manually selecting rotten berries and a temporary storage box for placing rotten berries. An intelligent sorting machine is installed on the side of the sorting platform, and a tray is installed inside the intelligent sorting machine. Multiple mesh holders are installed inside the tray, and a diversion belt is detachably mounted on the side of the sorting platform via bolts.

[0006] A V-shaped belt is provided on the side of the diversion belt to change the direction of corn transportation and to further transport it;

[0007] A wavy belt is provided at the end of the V-shaped belt.

[0008] In some embodiments, the intelligent sorting machine includes a quality meter and a camera.

[0009] In some embodiments, the diversion belt is installed in the same direction as the fruit picking platform conveyor path, and the diversion belt adopts a four-channel structure design, wherein the lengths of the four channels are different.

[0010] In some embodiments, the V-shaped belt and the wavy belt are generally arranged at right angles, and both the V-shaped belt and the wavy belt adopt an internal V-shaped structure design.

[0011] In some embodiments, a section of the corrugated belt is provided with a 35° ramp in the middle to elevate the corn conveyor through height to ensure docking with the intelligent sorting machine.

[0012] In some embodiments, a weighing conveyor belt for further conveying corn is provided at the outlet of the intelligent sorting machine.

[0013] In some embodiments, a motor 2 and a motor 3 for driving the V-belt and the wavy belt are respectively provided on the side ends of the V-belt and the wavy belt.

[0014] In some embodiments, a plurality of double-row fruit cups are provided on the inner side of the weighing conveyor belt;

[0015] The intelligent sorting machine has a tray inside, and multiple mesh trays are set inside the tray. The mesh trays have a hollow design, and the tray is made of nylon and glass fiber.

[0016] In some embodiments, the bottom inner side of the weighing conveyor belt is provided with a plurality of pads for reducing the impact force when the corn falls;

[0017] The gaskets are arranged in rows of two, with an axially symmetrical design, and the gaskets on both the left and right sides are distributed at an angle downwards.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides a corn selection maturity detection device:

[0019] This corn sorting and maturity detection device involves manually selecting corn on a sorting platform during maturity testing. Rotten corn is placed in a temporary storage box. The corn is then conveyed by a motor-driven roller. When the corn reaches the distribution belt, a four-channel distribution belt divides the corn into four groups, placing them in the grooves of a V-shaped belt according to their positions. The V-shaped belt then conveys the corn to the grooves of a wavy belt, which, due to its incline, leads to an intelligent sorting machine for inspection. The intelligent sorting machine uses an internal quality meter and optical camera to inspect the corn. The corn is placed horizontally on a mesh tray, and the light-transmitting tray and perforated mesh structure allow the optical camera and near-infrared light to detect the corn from the bottom. After inspection, the corn is fed out via a weighing conveyor belt with fruit cups. The flipping of the fruit cups, combined with elastic pads, cushions the falling corn, effectively reducing the probability of external damage.

[0020] Through the above settings and processes, this structure achieves the following beneficial effects:

[0021] 1. To address the blind spot problem in existing intelligent corn sorting machines, comprehensive detection can be achieved through structural optimization: An innovative composite bearing design is adopted in the equipment's transmission system, upgrading the traditional solid pallet to a double-layer structure—the lower layer retains the basic pallet to maintain conveying stability, while the upper layer is replaced with a high-transmittance structure whose honeycomb-shaped perforated holes precisely match the corn kernel size (8-12mm). This design allows optical sensors to penetrate the gaps in the mesh trays to collect spectral data from the bottom surface of the corn. Combined with a multi-angle supplemental lighting system, this ensures that the entire surface of the kernels (including the endosperm depression) is covered by near-infrared (900-1700nm band) light for detection. This increases the detection completeness of maturity parameters (dry matter content, soluble sugar, etc.) from the original 60% to over 98%. Simultaneously, the anti-slip texture design of the mesh trays prevents secondary shading caused by corn rolling, ultimately reducing the sorting error rate from 12% to below 3%.

[0022] 2. This solution achieves a high degree of integration between corn conveying and sorting processes through innovative mechanical structure design. The system adopts a three-stage stepped conveying architecture with no blind spots for detection; in particular, elastic metal pads are added in key transition areas to reduce the impact force of falling corn by 70%. Combined with the inclined design, it effectively avoids direct collision between kernels and the metal box, keeping the breakage rate below 0.5%. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the overall top structure of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the connection position of the fruit picking platform and the diversion belt of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the installation position structure of the V-shaped belt and the wave belt of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of the weighing conveyor belt of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the installation position structure of the weighing conveyor belt and intelligent sorting machine of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the installation orientation of the gasket of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the distribution of the tray and mesh tray of the present invention.

[0031] In the diagram: 1. Fruit sorting platform; 2. Temporary storage box; 3. Motor 1; 4. Roller; 5. Lamp holder; 6. Diverter belt; 7. V-belt; 8. Corrugated belt; 9. Intelligent sorting machine; 10. Blackout curtain; 11. Weighing conveyor belt; 12. Fruit cup; 13. Gasket; 14. Motor 2; 15. Motor 3; 16. Tray; 17. Net tray. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0033] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "front end," "rear end," "both ends," "one end," and "the other end," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0034] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "equipped with," "connected," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0035] Please see Figure 1-7 In this embodiment, a corn sorting and maturity detection device includes a sorting platform 1 for manually selecting rotten corn and a temporary storage box 2 for placing rotten corn. An intelligent sorting machine 9 is installed to the side of the sorting platform 1. After the corn enters the intelligent sorting machine 9 according to the conveying route, data is collected by a camera and a quality meter. Near-infrared optical detection technology is used, employing changes in transmission near-infrared spectroscopy combined with data algorithms to detect the moisture, sugar, and starch content of the corn. Through internal quality meter detection, corn that is too mature or too immature is removed to ensure the corn's optimal taste.

[0036] The intelligent sorting machine 9 contains a quality meter and a camera.

[0037] In order to divert the corn during transportation, a diversion belt 6 is installed on the side of the picking platform 1 by means of bolts for detachable assembly.

[0038] The installation direction of the diversion belt 6 is consistent with the conveying path of the fruit picking platform 1. The diversion belt 6 adopts a four-channel structure design, in which the lengths of the four channels are different. This allows the corn to be conveyed to different paths when it is diverted and conveyed in four channels, so as to facilitate the subsequent conveying process.

[0039] To ensure that the corn has a complete transport path, a V-shaped belt 7 is set on the side of the diversion belt 6 to change the transport direction of the corn and carry it further. A wavy belt 8 is set at the end of the V-shaped belt 7. This extends the transport path of the corn to the position of the intelligent sorting machine 9.

[0040] The V-shaped belt 7 and the wavy belt 8 are both designed with an internal V-shaped structure. The middle section of the wavy belt 8 has a 35° slope, which allows the corn to be conveyed to the height of the entrance of the intelligent sorting machine 9.

[0041] A weighing conveyor belt 11 is installed at the outlet of the intelligent sorting machine 9, and the corn passing through the weighing conveyor belt 11 can be further sorted and placed.

[0042] In order to enable the V-belt 7 and the corrugated belt 8 to have conveying power, a synchronous pulley and a synchronous belt are installed inside them, and a motor 2 14 and a motor 3 15 are respectively installed on one side of one end. Driven by the motor 2 14 and the motor 3 15, the V-belt 7 and the corrugated belt 8 can smoothly drive the corn to complete the conveying.

[0043] Multiple double-row fruit cups 12 are installed on the inner side of the weighing conveyor belt 11. The fruit cups 12 are used to hold corn in the conveying process. Multiple pads 13 are installed on the inner bottom of the weighing conveyor belt 11 to reduce the impact force when the corn falls.

[0044] The pads 13 are arranged in two groups in a row, with an axially symmetrical design. The pads 13 on both the left and right sides are inclined downwards. This design allows the pads 13 to intercept the corn regardless of its falling posture. The elastic bending of the pads 13 cushions the corn and prevents the corn from breaking.

[0045] To ensure accurate detection of corn inside the intelligent sorting machine 9, a tray 16 is installed inside the intelligent sorting machine 9, and multiple mesh holders 17 are installed inside the tray 16. The mesh holders 17 have a hollow design, while the tray 16 is made of nylon and glass fiber. This design can improve light transmittance, increase the detection accuracy of the optical camera, and also allow the corn to be accurately detected by the camera below and the transmissive near-infrared light through the hollow structure of the mesh holders 17.

[0046] In this embodiment, during corn maturity testing, the corn is poured onto the sorting platform 1 for manual selection. Rotten corn is placed in the temporary storage box 2. The corn is conveyed by a roller 4 driven by a motor 3. When the corn is conveyed to the diversion belt 6, the four-channel diversion belt 6 divides the corn into four groups and places the corn in the grooves of the V-shaped belt 7 according to different positions. The corn is then conveyed by the V-shaped belt 7 to the grooves of the corrugated belt 8. The corn is then conveyed by the slope of the corrugated belt 8 and enters the intelligent sorting machine 9 for testing. The intelligent sorting machine 9 tests the corn using an internally installed quality meter and optical camera. At this time, the corn is placed horizontally on the mesh holder 17 on the tray 16, and the receiving surface is supported by the light-transmitting tray 16 and the hollow mesh holder 17, allowing the optical camera and near-infrared light to detect from the bottom. The tested corn is then sent out through the fruit cup 12 on the weighing conveyor belt 11. The flipping of the fruit cup 12 allows the corn to be elastically supported by the pad 13 as it falls, effectively cushioning the fall and reducing the probability of external damage.

[0047] Finally, it should be noted that the above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A corn sorting and maturity detection device, comprising a sorting platform (1) for manually sorting rotten corn and a temporary storage box (2) for placing rotten corn, characterized in that: A smart sorting machine (9) is set on the side of the fruit picking platform (1). A tray (16) is set inside the smart sorting machine (9). Multiple net holders (17) are set inside the tray (16). A diversion belt (6) is detachably assembled on the side of the fruit picking platform (1) by bolts. A V-shaped belt (7) is provided on the side of the diversion belt (6) for changing the direction of corn transportation and for further conveying; A wavy belt (8) is provided at the end of the V-shaped belt (7).

2. The corn maturity detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intelligent sorting machine (9) contains a quality meter and a camera.

3. The corn maturity detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The installation direction of the diversion belt (6) is consistent with the conveying path of the fruit picking platform (1), and the diversion belt (6) adopts a four-channel structure design, in which the lengths of the four channels are different.

4. The corn maturity detection device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The V-shaped belt (7) and the wave belt (8) are both designed with an internal V-shaped structure.

5. The corn maturity detection device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The middle section of the corrugated belt (8) is provided with a 35° ramp to raise the corn conveyor height so that it can dock with the intelligent sorting machine (9).

6. The corn maturity detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The intelligent sorting machine (9) is equipped with a weighing conveyor belt (11) at the outlet position for further conveying corn.

7. The corn maturity detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that: The sides of the V-belt (7) and the wave belt (8) are respectively provided with a motor 2 (14) and a motor 3 (15) for driving the V-belt (7) and the wave belt (8).

8. The corn maturity detection device according to claim 6, characterized in that: Multiple double-row fruit cups (12) are provided on the inner side of the weighing conveyor belt (11); The intelligent sorting machine (9) has a tray (16) inside and multiple mesh trays (17) inside the tray (16). The mesh trays (17) have a hollow design, while the tray (16) is made of nylon and glass fiber.

9. A corn maturity detection device according to claim 8, characterized in that: The weighing conveyor belt (11) is provided with multiple pads (13) on the inner bottom side to reduce the impact force when the corn falls; The gaskets (13) are arranged in two groups per row, with an axially symmetrical design, and the gaskets (13) on the left and right sides are distributed at an angle downwards.

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