Moisturizing, low-breakage and self-cleaning integrated multifunctional material storage system and material storage method

Abstract

The invention discloses a multifunctional material storage system integrating moisturizing, low crushing and self-cleaning and a material storage method. The multifunctional material storage system is mainly composed of a variable-height material distribution device 1, an automatic covering device 2, a self-cleaning device 3, a storage cabinet body 4 and a material distribution trolley 5. The variable-height material distribution device 1 is matched with a material position detection module 12 and a first driving module 13 through a multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, so that the dynamic adjustment of the material distribution height is realized, and the blanking impact and the material breakage rate are reduced; the automatic covering device 2 adopts a scheme of'flexible covering belt + furling driving + double locking ', and can be quickly unfolded and covered after the materials are completed, so that the moisture preservation and dustproof sealing of the storage cabinet are realized; and the self-cleaning device 3 is an integrated sweeping and blowing assembly and is used for sweeping residual material slag to the discharging opening, so that the interior of the cabinet body is kept clean. According to the system and method, high-reliability cooperation of the material distributing, covering and cleaning processes can be achieved, the material storage efficiency is improved, and the system and method are suitable for storage and treatment of fragile light materials in the tobacco industry.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of tobacco materials, storage and cleaning technology, and in particular relates to a multifunctional storage system and storage method that integrates moisture retention, low breakage and self-cleaning, which can be widely used in the storage, transportation and automated processing production lines of the tobacco industry. Background Technology

[0002] Material handling, covering, and residual cleaning are essential operational steps in the storage and post-discharge of tobacco materials. Due to the large size and height of the storage tanks, the handling of low-breakage materials during storage, material covering, and post-discharge cleaning of residual materials are all accomplished through corresponding devices or manually. Relevant organizations have proposed specific material handling devices, covering devices, and cleaning devices, but these only achieve one specific function. Due to limitations in the relative position of the storage tank and material cart, as well as space and structural constraints, it has not yet been possible to propose a system or structure that integrates all three functions—low-breakage material handling, material covering, and residual cleaning—within a single system or structure.

[0003] Existing solutions involve designing separate system modules for low-fragmentation materials, covering materials, and cleaning residues. Common mechanical equipment includes material handling units, covering units, and cleaning units. Material handling units often use automatic spreading machines or conveyor belt material handling units. The typical structure of these units includes telescopic chutes, buffer hoppers, buffer bags, rotating spreading discs, multi-point distribution valves, and annular guide chutes. The material handling unit uses motors and robotic arms to evenly spread the material onto the material handling unit. The disadvantages are that the drop height during material handling is still relatively large, and the impact is concentrated, which can cause secondary crushing of brittle fibers; the accumulation morphology is uncontrollable, resulting in cone-shaped piles and segregation; and it is prone to interference with accessories such as top covers and sprayers, making it unable to flexibly adapt to various material morphologies. Covering devices, commonly mobile cover devices, typically include single / double-leaf flip covers, sliding covers, flexible roller shutters (motor roller guide rails), and film stretching mechanisms, which can automatically place the cover for the material. Disadvantages include difficulty in balancing sealing and openability, making it hard to consistently and stably cover tobacco materials tightly; humidity control is difficult with only sealing; materials need to be fully opened, interrupting the moisturizing function and conflicting with the material path space. Cleaning devices, commonly automatic brushing equipment and vacuuming equipment, typically include bottom scraper chains / push plates, rotating brushes + negative pressure nozzles inside the silo, and air knife / vibrator + suction combinations, which can remove some residual material. Disadvantages include residues at rounded corners, ribs, and inner wall dead corners; discontinuous fitting surfaces; difficulty in quickly achieving low mixing rates during batch cutting, leading to cross-contamination; and even inconsistent suction systems, causing secondary dust dispersion in the workshop.

[0004] Furthermore, in the tobacco processing, the three key aspects of material handling, covering, and residue cleaning in storage bins are currently still completed by independent devices or manually, making integrated operation difficult. This is mainly due to limitations in space, structure, and functional coordination. Firstly, there is the issue of space competition and structural interference between material handling and covering. Mobile material carts require a large lateral travel and low-crushing mechanism for even material distribution, occupying top / side space and needing to maintain a safe distance from the storage bin. Covering and cleaning, however, must be performed close to the storage bin, naturally creating space competition and structural interference. To avoid interference, fixed covers or roller shutters often need to be closed only after the material cart has completely exited. Rigid cover supports obstruct the cart's movement, while soft roller shutters take up additional space during operation, exacerbating the conflict. Simultaneously, the timing and interlocking control of material handling and covering require extremely high precision; even slight inconsistencies can lead to blockages. In summary, the triple contradictions of space, structure, and timing make it difficult to integrate material handling, covering, and cleaning into a single system. Secondly, there is the issue of space occupation and equipment conflict in residue cleaning. Residue cleaning is constrained by three factors: space occupancy, equipment conflict, and cleaning effectiveness. Manual cleaning is inefficient; while fixed cleaning (bottom rotating brush / scraper) can be automated, it interferes with the movement of material carts; switching to mobile cleaning (robotic arm brush) requires additional drive and encroaches on the passageway above the storage tank, creating competition for top-level space with material carts. Simultaneously, the large depth of the storage tank and the required long operating range significantly complicate the mechanism design, making it difficult to balance coverage and effectiveness without increasing volume and interference. This results in the cleaning system being difficult to integrate with material handling and covering, often forcing it to operate independently or relying on manual intervention. These problems prevent the effective integration of the three key aspects of storage tank material handling, covering, and residue cleaning into a single system, relying on independent devices or manual operation, leading to large space occupation, coordination difficulties, and low levels of automation.

[0005] Currently, the closest existing technologies to this invention include: an automatic material feeding device disclosed in Chinese Patent CN110000888A, which controls the material drop by tilting the guide plate; an automatic tobacco material covering device disclosed in Chinese Utility Model CN209876543U; and an automatic cleaning device disclosed in Chinese Patent CN112345678B. The automatic material feeding device in Chinese Patent CN110000888A only handles material feeding and lacks covering and cleaning capabilities; furthermore, the guide plate relies on angle and drop control, resulting in uncontrollable impact concentration / pile shape; the increased breakage rate is greatly affected by fluctuations in material level and flow rate; the guide plate and its transmission significantly occupy space in the top channel; and it lacks an integrated interface with the roller shutter / cover and cleaning suction port, making subsequent integration and modification difficult. The utility model CN209876543U automatic cover device with roller shutter only involves the cover function and does not have the functions of reducing material breakage and automatic cleaning. The roller, guide rail and side sealing mechanism occupy the top layer space and conflict with the running trajectory of the chute / spreading plate / material cart. It can only be closed after the material cart has completely withdrawn, and cannot achieve "material-partial envelopment-synchronous moisturization", resulting in interruption of material moisturization process, and is not suitable for integration. The automatic cleaning device of Chinese patent CN112345678B does not integrate material and cover functions. The cleaning is an independent unit, which occupies a lot of space and interferes with the material cart, roller shutter or cover, making it difficult to implement system integration. Moreover, the fixed brush and suction port have poor adaptability to dead corners such as rounded corners, ribs and inner wall seams, and it is difficult to reduce the residue rate to the level required for batch cutting. Even the brush sweeping disturbance is large. If the seal and air path are not linked with the cover, it is easy to generate secondary dust and has high air volume requirements and high energy consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0006] (1) Purpose of the invention

[0007] To address the shortcomings and deficiencies of existing technologies, this invention provides a multifunctional material storage system and method that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning. It integrates three functions—low-breakage material handling, material covering, and residual material cleaning—into one system. The system features a compact mechanical structure, high degree of automation, and strong feasibility. It can achieve specific functions while saving space, reducing manual intervention, and lowering economic costs, effectively improving work efficiency and the overall reliability of the system.

[0008] The core problem to be solved by the multifunctional storage system and method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning described in this invention is: to construct an integrated storage system and method that solves the problems of adjustable material height, reduced material drop, and low breakage; and to quickly and reliably automatically cover the top of the storage tank after material discharge to maintain humidity and cleanliness; and to even efficiently remove residual material residue after discharge through a self-cleaning device; at the same time, through multi-device interlocking and safety domain constraints, it ensures that the material, covering, and cleaning processes do not interfere with each other, thus achieving high efficiency and reliability of the system.

[0009] The present invention discloses a multifunctional storage system and method that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning. The main purpose of the invention is to realize a stacked and avoidance-type storage system of "low breakage material + flexible sealing cover + linkage absorption and self-cleaning" within the same electromechanical platform, and to solve the problems of functional fragmentation, spatial interference and temporal rigidity in the prior art by using a multifunctional storage method with breakage, moisture retention, dust and residue as multi-variable closed-loop control targets, thereby improving quality stability, cycle time and energy efficiency.

[0010] Firstly, the multi-functional storage system and method of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, aims to achieve dynamic adjustment of material height, reduce drop height, and lower material breakage rate by using a multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 in conjunction with a material position detection module 12. This solves the problem of non-adjustable height and direct drop of materials from a height in traditional material handling methods, which leads to severe breakage of lightweight and fragile materials (such as tobacco leaves and tobacco sheets) under impact, thereby improving the quality and utilization rate of tobacco materials.

[0011] Secondly, the multifunctional material storage system and method of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, has the following secondary objective: to use an automatic covering device 2 with the functions of "flexible covering belt + winding drive + double-end locking + guide sealing". When the covering belt is unfolded, it is pulled by the material cart 5 and simultaneously coordinated with the winding drive to form a flat and taut sealing belt surface. Furthermore, the unfolding locking device 24 at the head end and the retraction locking device 25 at the winding end cooperate to form a locking structure, thereby achieving rapid sealing and stable moisture retention and dust prevention at the top of the storage tank. This solves the problem of easy loss of material moisture and contamination by external dust due to the lack of efficient automatic sealing and covering methods at the top of the storage tank.

[0012] Thirdly, the multifunctional storage system and storage method of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, has the following third objective: The self-cleaning device moves along the entire bottom of the cabinet in a "broom-like" manner under the drive of the material cart, and uses the bottom-mounted directional airflow evenly sprayed from the pressure stabilizing chamber to push the residual material residue to the discharge port. With the help of telescopic adjustment and positioning detection, it achieves automatic, efficient, and dead-angle-free cleaning, solving the problems of material residue often remaining at the bottom and corners of the storage cabinet after discharge, difficulty in thorough air blowing cleaning, and easy deterioration and mold growth of residue.

[0013] Fourthly, the fourth objective of the multifunctional material storage system and method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning described in this invention is to achieve coordinated operation and anti-interference control of the material, covering, and cleaning devices through interlock control, timing constraints, and safety domain protection, thereby ensuring system stability and reliability. This solves the problems in traditional systems where the material, covering, and cleaning devices are mostly independent modules, lacking interlock control and timing constraints, easily interfering with each other during operation, causing equipment jamming or damage, and having poor operational reliability.

[0014] (2) Technical solution content

[0015] Firstly, the present invention provides a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, the specific technical solution of which is as follows.

[0016] The present invention discloses a multi-functional storage system that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning. The main components of the multi-functional storage system include a variable height material device (1), an automatic covering device (2), a self-cleaning device (3), a storage cabinet (4), and a material cart (5).

[0017] Variable height material handling device (1)

[0018] The multi-level skateboard mechanism (11) consists of a multi-layer skateboard structure, which includes three layers of skateboards. Each layer of skateboard operates independently but is linked as a whole, and its height position is adjusted by telescopic movement. Each layer of skateboard has independent support elements and sliding elements to ensure the smooth movement and precise positioning of the skateboard.

[0019] The multi-level sliding plate mechanism is installed at the bottom of the material cart (5), close to the discharge end, and can move and be positioned with the material cart (5) so as to directly adjust the material height and form the core system of material operation. The material cart (5) provides the basis for operation and movement, the material position detection module (12) provides real-time height information, and the drive module (13) performs the extension and retraction action.

[0020] The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) is driven by the first drive module (13) and automatically adjusts its extension and retraction state according to the material height information in the storage cabinet (4) fed back by the material position detection module (12) to control the material outlet height. The first drive module (13) is connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) through the connecting transmission component, receives the height signal transmitted by the material position detection module (12), and drives the sliding plate to extend and retract in a closed-loop control manner to realize the automatic adjustment of the material outlet height.

[0021] Material position detection module (12)

[0022] The material position detection module (12) is generally long or narrow rectangular, and its size is set according to the height of the storage cabinet (4) and the sensing distance. The length of the material position detection module (12) can cover the entire height range of the storage cabinet (4) or at least cover the key height points of the storage cabinet (4).

[0023] The material position detection module (12) is installed on the side of the storage cabinet (4), close to the moving path of the material vehicle (5) but does not move with the material vehicle (5), and the detection area of ​​the material position detection module (12) faces the internal material storage space of the storage cabinet (4).

[0024] The material position detection module (12) and the drive module (13) form a closed-loop control. The detection signal is transmitted to the drive module (13), and the drive module (13) adjusts the extension and retraction state of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) accordingly. The material position detection module (12) includes a sensing unit, a signal processing unit, a fixed bracket and a protective cover. The sensing unit is used to measure the material stacking height inside the storage cabinet (4). The signal processing unit is used to convert the sensing signal into digital height data and communicate with the drive module (13). The fixed bracket and the protective cover are used to support and protect the sensing unit.

[0025] The sensing unit of the material position detection module (12) is a laser rangefinder or multiple sets of through-beam photoelectric switches, which realizes continuous distance measurement and outputs real-time height data or discrete position measurement and outputs corresponding position information; the signal processing unit of the material position detection module (12) has an anti-interference design to avoid misjudgment caused by dust or light reflection.

[0026] Driver Module 1 (13)

[0027] The drive module (13) consists of a servo motor or stepper motor, a coupling, a reducer, a transmission component, a controller unit, a fixed bracket, and a protective cover. The servo motor or stepper motor serves as the main power source, and the coupling is used to transmit the rotational motion of the motor output shaft to the transmission mechanism of the multi-stage slide mechanism (11). The fixed bracket and protective cover are used to support and protect the motor and the coupling. The controller unit can receive height data from the material position detection module (12) and adjust the output signal according to the sensing information to control the motor operation.

[0028] The drive module is used to drive the extension and retraction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) and to achieve automatic adjustment of the material outlet height by forming a closed-loop control with the material position detection module (12); the drive module (13) is a rectangular structure, including a motor body, coupling, reducer and fixed base, the base is a rectangular platform and installed below the material cart (5); the drive module (13) is installed in the center of the lower part of the material cart (5), coaxial or parallel with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11), and located near the discharge end of the material cart (5). The drive module (13) is connected to the multi-level slide mechanism (11) through a linear module, and the linear extension and retraction of the slide is realized through the extension and retraction of the linear module; the drive module (13) and the material position detection module (12) form a closed-loop control, and the material position information is used as the basis for adjusting the extension and retraction of the slide; it is fixedly connected to the material cart (5) and moves along the storage cabinet (4) with the material cart (5) to realize material operation at different positions; the drive module (13) and the automatic covering device (2) work together synchronously to realize the function of covering the material and keeping it moist.

[0029] Automatic covering device (2)

[0030] The automatic covering device (2) is generally a long strip-shaped upper structure arranged along the length of the storage tank. The exposed drive box and locking seat are arranged in a rectangular block. The automatic covering device (2) is fixed above the storage tank body (4) and arranged along the length of the tank. The material covering tape assembly (21) is a folded flexible tape that forms a flat covering surface after unfolding. The width of the material covering tape assembly (21) is greater than the opening width of the top of the storage tank body (4), and a rectangular reinforcing beam is set at the end to ensure uniform force distribution and tear resistance. The material covering tape drive module (22) is installed on the retractable end side wall of the storage tank body (4), and has a support shaft (213) and a power transmission mechanism inside. The material covering tape can be unfolded and folded back. The locking position detection module 23 is arranged at the front end of the storage tank body (4) to monitor the unfolding or retraction status of the material covering tape in real time. The retraction locking device (25) is arranged near the end of the drum to ensure stable locking after the material covering tape is retracted. The stop drive module (26) is used to drive the opening and closing actions of the unfolding locking device (24) and the retraction locking device (25) to achieve unlocking and pressing; the unfolding locking device (24) is installed on the front top of the storage cabinet (4) to fix the end and achieve head end sealing, and the locking position detection module 23 is located at the opposite end, responsible for pressing and fixing the end after the covering strip is fully unfolded, so as to form a reliable seal with the storage cabinet (4) and determine whether the unfolding or retraction is in place; the retraction locking device (25) can perform mechanical locking in the retraction state at the end near the support shaft (213); the covering strip of the automatic covering device (2) is a louvered strip, which unfolds and retracts parallel to the top of the cabinet in the guide grooves on both sides, and becomes a flat strip-shaped covering surface after unfolding; the non-drive end of the automatic covering device (2) is provided with a rectangular end reinforcing beam, which is connected to the top hook seat of the material cart (5) through the end reinforcing beam, and the low-speed linear motion of the material cart (5) is used to complete the covering or retraction.

[0031] Material shielding tape assembly (21)

[0032] The material shielding strip assembly (21) has a multi-layered folding or unfolding strip structure, which is arranged laterally along the width of the storage cabinet (4). When unfolded, it forms a planar strip that covers the top opening of the storage cabinet. When retracted, it is folded and arranged in the storage slot or close to one side. The material shielding strip assembly (21) is connected to the locking position detection module (23) to detect the position of the end of the cover curtain (212) or the support shaft (213) and to feed back a signal to the control system to trigger the locking action of the unfolding or retraction process. The material shielding strip assembly (21) is locked at the unfolding end and the retraction end by the unfolding locking device (24) and the retraction locking device (25) respectively. The locking device is driven by the locking drive module (26) to achieve double-end locking and sealing. The two sides of the material shielding strip assembly (21) are embedded in the guide grooves on both sides of the storage cabinet (4) and slide, and are laterally pressed and sealed by the sealing strip.

[0033] The material shielding belt assembly (21) is interlocked with the variable height material device (1) and the self-cleaning device (3). The unfolding or retraction action can only be performed after the material and the cleaning device have returned to a safe position.

[0034] The material covering assembly (21) includes guide wheels (211), a cover curtain (212), and a support shaft (213). The support shaft (213) runs across the width of the cover curtain (212), and guide wheels (211) are installed at both ends. The guide wheels (211) slide within the guide rail, driving the support shaft (213) and the cover curtain (212) to unfold or retract, thereby achieving automatic covering of the top opening of the storage cabinet (4). The guide wheels (211) are disc-shaped or columnar structures, installed at both ends of the support shaft (213), and can be installed within the U-shaped or C-shaped guide rail. Rolling guide; the guide wheel has a central shaft hole, which is interference-fitted or fitted to the end of the support shaft (213), and is equipped with an anti-loosening device to ensure that it does not fall off during operation; the cover curtain (212) is a rectangular or trapezoidal flexible sheet, the width of which matches the opening width of the storage cabinet (4), and the length is sufficient to cover the entire top opening area of ​​the storage cabinet; the support shaft (213) is a multi-straight rod structure, arranged parallel to the width direction of the cover curtain (212), and each support shaft (213) is fixedly connected to the cover curtain (212) by sewing, riveting or clamping.

[0035] The material shielding belt assembly (21) is connected to the material shielding belt drive module (22) and is used to realize the unfolding and retraction of the cover curtain (212). Its driving mode includes rotary driving mode and linear push-pull driving mode. In the rotary driving mode, torque is applied to the support shaft (213) through a coupling, synchronous belt or chain to realize the winding or release of the cover curtain (212). In the linear push-pull driving mode, push-pull force is applied to both ends of the support shaft (213) through a linear module (221) and pneumatic claws (222) to realize the overall unfolding or retraction of the cover curtain (212).

[0036] The material shielding belt assembly (21) can be in an unfolded or retracted state during operation. In the unfolded state, the control system first unlocks the unfolding locking device (24), drives the support shaft (213) to release the cover curtain (212), and when it reaches the end position, the locking position detection module (23) sends a feedback signal, and the unfolding locking device (24) closes and locks. In the retracted state, the retracting locking device (25) is first unlocked, drives the cover curtain (212) to retract, and when the retracted position signal is detected, the retracting locking device (25) closes and locks.

[0037] The cover strip assembly (21) can be in a covered static state or a retracted static state under static conditions; when in the covered static state, both the unfolding locking device (24) and the retracting locking device (25) are closed and locked, and the edge of the cover curtain (212) is pressed and sealed in the guide rail; when in the retracted static state, the cover curtain (212) is folded up and locked by the retracting locking device (25);

[0038] The guide wheel (211) is preferably made of polymer material or stainless steel with a diameter of 20-60 mm and a thickness of 5-15 mm. Its outer diameter is slightly smaller than the inner width of the guide rail, leaving a gap of 0.5-2 mm.

[0039] The spacing between each support shaft (213) is 50 to 300 mm, and the spacing tolerance is controlled within ±5 mm.

[0040] Material shielding tape drive module (22)

[0041] The material shielding belt drive module (22) is installed on the left and right sides of the storage cabinet (4), and forms a clamping connection with the two ends of the support shaft (213) of the material shielding belt assembly (21), respectively, for driving the unfolding and retraction of the cover curtain (212); the stroke range of the material shielding belt drive module (22) covers from the locking area corresponding to the retraction locking device (25) to the locking area corresponding to the unfolding locking device (24), controlling the drive of the entire unfolding and retraction interval; the material shielding belt drive module (22) cooperates with the locking position detection module (23), and triggers the detection module (23) to output a position signal when the end of the support shaft (213) or the cover curtain (212) reaches the predetermined position, for controlling the material shielding belt drive module (22) to stop the linear movement and trigger the locking drive module (26) to perform locking;

[0042] The material shielding belt drive module (22) includes a linear module (221), a pneumatic gripper (222), a mounting bracket, and a floating compensation unit. The linear module (221) includes a fixed base, a guide rail and a slider pair, a transmission mechanism, and a drive unit. The linear module (221) is arranged laterally on the side wall of the storage cabinet (4), and is generally long and thin. The guide axis is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the storage cabinet (4) to generate linear driving force and drive the pneumatic gripper (222) to reciprocate. The transmission mechanism is a ball screw drive or a synchronous belt drive, and the drive unit is... A stepper motor or servo motor is used, and limit switches or buffer devices are set at both ends of the stroke to realize displacement control and limit protection; the pneumatic gripper (222) is rectangular in shape, and the clamping direction is set coaxially with the support shaft (213) to ensure the symmetry of the clamping operation and the synchronization of the action; the pneumatic gripper (222) is a parallel or three-finger parallel opening and closing structure, and the clamping surface is provided with a wear-resistant high friction pad to clamp the end of the support shaft (213) and prevent slippage, and is fixed to the slider end face of the linear module (221) by the mounting flange, and moves synchronously with the slider;

[0043] The material shielding belt drive module (22) has an unfolding mode and a retracting mode under the motion condition. In the unfolding mode, the retracting locking device (25) is released first, the pneumatic chuck (222) clamps the support shaft (213), the linear module (221) drives the slider to move towards the head end, triggers the head end locking position detection module (23) and stops the movement, and the end is locked by the unfolding locking device (24). In the retracting mode, the unfolding locking device (24) is released first, the chuck clamps the support shaft (213), the linear module (221) drives the slider to pull back, triggers the tail end locking position detection module (23) and stops the movement, and the end is locked by the retracting locking device (25).

[0044] The material shielding belt drive module (22) has a covering static mode and a retracting static mode under static conditions. In the covering static mode, the pneumatic claw (222) is released or maintains a micro-clamping state, the linear module (221) slider stops outside the head locking area, and is locked at both ends by the unfolding locking device (24) and the retracting locking device (25). In the retracting static mode, the linear module (221) slider retracts to the tail end origin, the pneumatic claw (222) is released or lightly clamped, and the end of the support shaft (213) is rigidly locked by the retracting locking device (25).

[0045] Locking position detection module (23)

[0046] The locking position detection module (23) is installed on the inner side wall of the storage cabinet (4) and close to the upper opening. The detection element is arranged along the running direction of the cover curtain (212) or the support shaft (213), and its sensing area avoids the guide reversal or sharp corner area. The locking position detection module (23) is set at the head end and tail end of the device to confirm the unfolded and retracted state of the shielding belt assembly (21) respectively. Each end is equipped with a detection unit and can be redundantly configured.

[0047] The locking position detection module (23) includes a positioning detection unit, a target component, an installation adjustment component, and an electrical connector. The positioning detection unit is any one of a mechanical limit switch, an inductive proximity switch, a magnetic induction switch, or a photoelectric sensor, which detects when the end of the material shielding tape assembly (21) reaches a predetermined position. The target component is set at the front edge of the cover curtain (212) or the end of the support shaft (213), and is aligned with the sensing axis of the positioning detection unit. The installation adjustment component is used to fix the positioning detection unit and achieve fine-tuning of its position, including an L-shaped bracket with a long slot, a scale positioning ruler, and a quick-locking clamp, which can assist the positioning detection unit in making slight adjustments in the longitudinal, lateral, and pitch directions. The electrical connector outputs the detection signal to the control unit. When the target component reaches the predetermined end position, the locking position detection module (23) outputs a positioning signal, which serves as a prerequisite for the material shielding tape drive module (22) to stop running and for the locking drive module (26) to perform an action.

[0048] After the arrival signal is verified by the control unit, it is used to trigger the execution of the stop and lock drive module (26) of the material shielding belt drive module (22), and to implement start-stop and disable and reverse operation prohibition of the material shielding belt drive module (22) when no valid arrival confirmation is obtained; wherein, the locking position detection module (23) establishes a two-way interlock relationship with the unfolding locking device (24), the retracting locking device (25) and the locking drive module (26) to ensure that the timing of the end position positioning and locking process is controllable; and, the locking position detection module (23) establishes a cycle interlock relationship with the variable height material device (1) and the self-cleaning device (3). The control unit only accepts the arrival signal for state switching and subsequent locking process triggering after detecting that the two devices are in the original position and meet the process sequence requirements.

[0049] Unlocking device (24)

[0050] The unfolding locking device (24) includes a mounting plate (241), a locking drive module (242), and a pin (243). The locking drive module (242) is fixedly installed above the end of the side wall of the storage cabinet (4) and connected to the pin (243) through the mounting plate (241). It drives the pin (243) to move vertically so that when the material shielding tape assembly (21) is unfolded into place, the pin (243) is inserted into the lock hole to achieve end locking, or the pin (243) is driven out of the lock hole in the unlocked state to complete unlocking. The pressing center elevation of the unfolding locking device (24) is basically consistent with the axis of the support shaft (213), and one set is symmetrically set on the left and right sides.

[0051] The front end of the pressure head of the unfolding locking device (24) is provided with a guide chamfer or rounded corner; the pin (243) forms a self-locking structure through an eccentric cam or a double crank mechanism, which can achieve mechanical self-holding when it moves to the over-center position, and can maintain the locking state even if the locking drive module (242) stops outputting; the mounting interface seat of the unfolding locking device (24) adopts a single hole design to compensate for assembly tolerances and ensure the alignment accuracy between the pressure head and the end of the support shaft (213); the unfolding locking device (24) and the material cover The components (21) are pressed together by a pressure head to form a surface contact. A sealing strip (245) is provided on the outside of the pressure head and forms a line contact seal with the upper sealing seat of the storage tank body (4) to perform locking and sealing in one piece. The unfolding locking device (24) is fixed to the storage tank body (4) by high-strength bolts and reinforcing plates. The contact surface is equipped with positioning pins and anti-loosening parts to improve fatigue resistance and anti-loosening ability. The pressing surface cooperates with the sealing seat at the opening of the storage tank body (4) to form a continuous line contact sealing interface in the locked state.

[0052] A closed-loop control relationship is established between the unfolding locking device (24) and the locking position detection module (23). The locking position detection module (23) outputs a signal after detecting that the target part is in place, which serves as a prerequisite authorization condition for the unfolding locking device (24) to perform pressing or unlocking. The unfolding locking device (24) is equipped with a status detection switch to provide feedback on the locking or unlocking status.

[0053] An interlock logic is established between the unfolding locking device (24) and the shielding tape driving module (22). Before receiving a valid unlocking signal from the unfolding locking device (24), the shielding tape driving module (22) is enabled to start / stop and disable and reverse operation is prohibited.

[0054] Retract the locking device (25)

[0055] The retraction locking device (25) includes a mounting plate (251), a locking drive module (252), a pin (253), and a lock hole; the mounting plate (251) is fixed to the rear end area of ​​the storage cabinet (4) and is provided with a positioning pin hole and a slotted hole for assembly positioning and centering adjustment; the locking drive module (252) drives the pin (253) to insert or withdraw from the lock hole in the vertical direction to achieve geometric locking or unlocking of the end or tail end of the support shaft (213) of the material shielding belt assembly (21); wherein, a set of the retraction locking device (25) is symmetrically set on the left and right sides of the storage cabinet (4), and the working center elevation of its pin (253) is basically consistent with the axis of the support shaft (213);

[0056] The front end of the pin (253) is provided with a guide chamfer or rounded corner transition, and the lock hole inlet is machined with a flared mouth and fitted with a guide bushing; the locking drive module (252) and the pin (253) are rigidly connected by a direct connection, which is achieved through a threaded joint or fork ear structure. The connection part is provided with an anti-rotation structure and anti-loosening measures, and the guide bushing provides axial guidance; the retraction locking device (25) includes a stroke limiter or buffer and a position detection component, which can avoid impact damage to the end of the pin (253). The position detection component can detect the locking or unlocking status; the mounting plate (251) is fixed to the storage cabinet body (4) by high-strength bolts and a reinforcing plate, and is provided with a positioning pin, an anti-loosening component and a backlash pad to ensure rigid fixation and centering stability under cyclic load and vibration conditions;

[0057] During the retraction process, when the locking position detection module (23) detects the tail end arrival signal, the control unit stops the operation of the shielding belt drive module (22) and instructs the locking drive module (26) to actuate, so that the pin (253) enters the lock hole at the end of the support shaft (213) along the axial direction, thereby completing the geometric locking and rigid positioning of the tail end.

[0058] The retraction locking device (25) and the locking position detection module (23) establish a signal link and closed-loop control relationship. The tail end of the locking position detection module (23) is in position as a prerequisite authorization condition for the retraction locking action. The retraction locking device (25) is equipped with an auxiliary detection switch for feedback of locking or unlocking status.

[0059] An interlock relationship is established between the retraction locking device (25) and the material shielding belt drive module (22). The control unit allows the material shielding belt drive module (22) to run only when a valid unlocking confirmation signal is detected; when no valid unlocking signal or locking confirmation signal is obtained, the control unit implements start / stop disabling and reverse operation prohibition on the material shielding belt drive module (22).

[0060] Lock-up drive module (26)

[0061] The locking drive module (26) includes an execution unit, a guide and support unit, a connecting and coupling component, a mounting interface and reinforcing component, and a position and status detection component. The execution unit is a cylinder, electric cylinder, or linear module, employing a slide-table structure to achieve high repeatability and high guiding stiffness, providing linear driving force to drive the pin of the unfolding locking device (24) or the retracting locking device (25) to move downward or upward, realizing locking or unlocking actions. The guide and support unit can ensure the precise linear movement of the execution unit in the axial direction and withstand lateral forces and torques. The connecting and coupling component is rigidly connected to the unfolding locking device (24) or the retracting locking device (25), and provides... Provides slight angle compensation; the mounting interface and reinforcement include a mounting plate, a reinforcing plate and a slotted hole adjustment structure, and are fixed with high-strength bolts and positioning pins to fix the locking drive module (26) to the side wall of the storage cabinet (4), and achieve centering adjustment and rigid connection through the slotted hole and positioning pin; the position and status detection component can output a locking position signal or an unlocking position signal and feed it back to the control unit; the locking drive module (26) is directly connected to the unfolding locking device (24) or the retracting locking device (25) through the connecting and coupling (263), so that the linear stroke output by the execution unit (261) is directly converted into a pressing action or an unlocking action;

[0062] A closed-loop signal relationship is established between the locking drive module (26) and the locking position detection module (23). The position signal of the locking position detection module (23) serves as the authorization condition for the locking drive module (26) to act, and the status feedback of the locking drive module (26) serves as the execution confirmation signal. An interlock logic is established between the locking drive module (26) and the material shielding belt drive module (22). The control unit allows the material shielding belt drive module (22) to run only when it detects the unlocking valid signal of the locking drive module (26). Otherwise, it implements start-stop disabling and reverse operation prohibition. The execution unit maintains the unlocked or locked position under static conditions and continuously outputs a status signal through the status detection device (265) as the criterion for the interlock control and false start protection of the material shielding belt drive module (22).

[0063] Self-cleaning device (3)

[0064] The self-cleaning device (3) has a long and thin strip-shaped shell with a rounded rectangular cross-section and a flat bottom surface. The bottom surface is equipped with a sweeping and blowing opening with continuous gaps or equidistant nozzles. The self-cleaning device (3) has a certain forward tilt angle relative to the horizontal plane. The two ends of the self-cleaning device (3) are provided with rounded guide heads or small rollers, which have a rounded transition or small diameter roller shape. The front end of the self-cleaning device (3) forms an integrated installation interface area, which is a partial rectangular block and is connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11). The rear upper side of the self-cleaning device (3) is provided with a raised interface area and a protective chamfer on the outer surface. The overall outline of the self-cleaning device (3) is smooth, which is suitable for reciprocating along the length direction inside the storage cabinet (4) and completing the bottom sweeping and blowing cleaning. Clean; The self-cleaning device (3) consists of a blower (31), a blower positioning detection module (32), and a drive module (33) working together to form a closed-loop operation relationship for blowering. The blower (31) is the core execution component, responsible for spraying compressed air into the bottom of the storage cabinet (4) through the nozzle (311) to remove residual materials. The drive module (33) is a power execution unit connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11), which drives the blower (31) to extend and retract vertically and maintain a constant working gap with the bottom of the cabinet. At the same time, it moves along the length of the cabinet with the material cart (5) to achieve full coverage cleaning. The blower positioning detection module (32) is a position confirmation and signal triggering unit, used to detect the blower positioning of the blower (31) and output a signal as the logical basis for shutting off the air source.

[0065] Jet blowing device (31)

[0066] The jetting device (31) includes a nozzle (311), an air pipe (312), and a bracket (313); the nozzle (311) is used to directionally jet compressed gas into the residual material area at the bottom of the storage tank (4); the air pipe (312) is connected to the nozzle (311) and is used to transport compressed gas from the external air supply system to the nozzle (311); the front end of the air pipe (312) is equipped with a throttle valve, a check valve, and a solenoid valve in series, and is arranged in the follower drag chain or at the root of the slide mechanism; the bracket (313) 3) The nozzle (311) and air pipe (312) are fixedly installed at the end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to achieve the alignment adjustment of the spray direction; the bracket (313) is provided with a slotted hole mounting structure and can integrate guide slider or limit buffer element; the end reference surface of the bracket (313) and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) is fixedly connected to the high-strength bolt through positioning pin; a floating compensation unit is provided between the bracket (313) and the pneumatic claw (222) to have linear floating capability and angular floating capability;

[0067] The blowing device (31) enters or exits the storage tank (4) with the telescopic movement of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11), and uses the end position signal of the blowing position detection module (32) as the logical authorization condition for the gas injection to start and stop, so as to realize the directional cleaning of residual materials; the blowing position detection module (32) is set at the tail end or side wall of the storage tank (4) to detect whether the blowing device (31) has blown to the tail of the storage tank, so as to output the control signal for stopping the blowing; the blowing device (31) moves longitudinally with the material cart (5) in the running channel above the storage tank (4) to realize the full coverage blowing of the bottom area of ​​the storage tank (4);

[0068] When the blowing device (31) is stationary, it retracts to the docking position above the storage cabinet (4), the solenoid valve closes and outputs a retraction signal; when cleaning, it is driven by the drive module three (33) to extend to the preset position, the control unit opens the solenoid valve to blow, and shuts off the air source and retracts the device after the stroke is completed.

[0069] Pneumatic spraying positioning detection module (32)

[0070] The spraying position detection module (32) includes a position sensor, a signal processing unit, and a protective housing. The position sensor is used to detect whether the spraying device (31) extends to the tail of the storage cabinet (4). The signal processing unit has a rectangular structure and the mounting surface of the housing has bolt holes or slotted holes for positioning installation or position fine adjustment, and converts it into a standard digital signal output to the control unit. The protective housing is used to encapsulate the position sensor and the signal processing unit. The signal processing unit converts the sensor detection results into a standardized digital signal and transmits it to the control unit through a cable, so that the control unit can determine whether the spraying device (31) has reached the correct position.

[0071] The spraying position detection module (32) works in conjunction with the spraying device (31) to output a stop-blowing criterion signal for the spraying action, thereby realizing the timing control and safe operation of the spraying operation; the spraying position detection module (32) is installed in the rear area of ​​the side wall of the storage cabinet (4), corresponding to the end position of the stroke of the spraying device (31); the position sensor works in conjunction with the movable part of the spraying device (31) to detect whether the spraying device (31) has reached the target position.

[0072] Driver Module 3 (33)

[0073] The drive module three (33) includes a drive source, a linear transmission mechanism, and a transmission control component; the drive source is selected from a linear module, a cylinder, or an electric actuator, and is used to provide the driving force required for the extension and retraction of the spraying device (31); the linear transmission mechanism is equipped with a bearing or a slider system, which can convert the rotational motion or push-pull motion of the drive source into the linear displacement of the spraying device (31), and the linear transmission mechanism includes at least one of a ball screw, a synchronous belt, or a chain; the transmission control component can control the start and stop of the drive source and the displacement amount, and form a feedback closed-loop control with the spraying position detection module (32);

[0074] The drive module three (33) is installed at the end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) and connected to the spraying device (31) through a transmission connector to drive the spraying device (31) to reciprocate and extend within the storage cabinet (4); the drive module three (33) is fixedly connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) through a support base, slide rail assembly or positioning pin, and the connection method is thread fastening, interference fit or pin positioning;

[0075] The output end of the drive module three (33) is connected to the blowing device (31) through a transmission shaft assembly, linkage mechanism, ball joint, universal joint or coupling to ensure the transmission of driving force and flexible docking; the drive module three (33) is provided with a guide slider or limit device at the connection part with the blowing device (31) to suppress lateral displacement and improve the path accuracy of the cleaning operation; the drive module three (33) establishes a signal interaction relationship with the blowing position detection module (32), the blowing position detection module (32) is used to provide the blowing device (31) position and stop blowing criteria signal, and the drive module three (33) performs motion control adjustment according to the feedback signal;

[0076] The drive module three (33) maintains a standby state when the device is stationary and the drive source does not output driving force; when the device is in motion, it drives the spraying device (31) to extend and retract along a preset trajectory and maintains real-time communication with the control system and the spraying position detection module (32) to ensure that the spraying action is only performed after the spraying device (31) is in position.

[0077] Storage cabinet body (4)

[0078] The storage tank (4) is an integrated box-type load-bearing structure with an open top and arranged along its length. It consists of a bottom plate on the inner surface of the cabinet bottom, left and right side plates, head and tail end plates, top flange, load-bearing beam and guide seat, circumferential reinforcing ribs and column frame, internal cavity guide and limiting strip, and maintenance opening and sensor mounting plate, providing support, guidance and installation position; among them, the bottom plate on the inner surface of the storage tank (4) serves as the main load-bearing surface; the left and right side plates, head and tail end plates together form a closed cavity with the bottom plate, and the tail end is integrally formed with a discharge port and reinforcing ring to ensure the strength and rigidity of the discharge area; the storage tank The top flange of the cabinet (4) is arranged around the top opening, serving as both the sealing overlap edge of the automatic covering device (2) and the load-bearing interface for the locking mechanism; the load-bearing beam and guide seat of the storage cabinet (4) are set on both sides of the top opening to support the walking track of the material cart (5) and to configure the limiting device; the circumferential reinforcing ribs and column frame are distributed on the outer wall and corner of the cabinet; the inner cavity of the storage cabinet (4) is provided with flow guide and limiting strips to guide the direction of material movement and limit the stacking height; the side wall of the storage cabinet (4) is reserved with maintenance openings and sensor mounting plates to accommodate the requirements of drive, locking and detection modules.

[0079] Material cart (5)

[0080] The material cart (5) is a low-profile, long, rectangular platform cart with a low profile and a central center of gravity. The front end is the discharge end, and wheel sets or sliders are arranged below. The lower part of the cart body is equipped with a multi-level sliding plate mechanism mounting surface and a shielding hook seat. The sides are equipped with maintenance openings and protective edges, and the outer corners are rounded to ensure the stability and adaptability of the material cart (5) in the running channel above the storage cabinet (4). The material cart (5) is an upper-mounted linear walking platform structure, consisting of a cart frame, a walking mechanism, a walking drive unit, a position detection unit, an energy and pipeline system, an installation interface, and protective buffer components. The frame of the material cart (5) is made of welded box beams and cross braces to form a high-rigidity load-bearing skeleton. The top and bottom are respectively machined with mounting bases for the installation of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) and the traction and attachment of the material shielding belt. The walking mechanism of the material cart (5) adopts the method of sliding block and linear guide rail cooperation. The drive end is equipped with a servo motor and reducer or direct drive motor, and is supplemented with electromagnetic brake. The power is transmitted to the drive shaft through the coupling or synchronous belt. The position detection device of the material cart (5) consists of an absolute encoder and limit switches at both ends. Protective covers, buffer stops and anti-detachment mechanisms are set at the front and rear ends.

[0081] Secondly, the material storage method of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, includes the following steps:

[0082] S1. Loading: When the storage tank (4) issues a loading request, the material cart (5) moves to the top of the storage tank (4), and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) in the variable height material device (1) arranged below it extends to near the bottom of the storage tank (4), and the material slides into the storage tank (4) through the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11).

[0083] S2. Height detection and material recovery: The material position detection module (12) detects the height of the material inside the storage cabinet (4) and transmits the detection signal to the drive module (13). The drive module (13) drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to retract step by step until it is completely retracted to the original position.

[0084] S3. Covering and unfolding: When the covering signal is received, the locking drive module (26) first drives the retracting locking device (25) to unlock, and the covering strip drive module (22) drives the covering strip assembly (21) to gradually extend towards the head end of the storage cabinet (4) until the locking position detection module (23) detects that the covering strip assembly (21) is in place; then the locking drive module (26) drives the unfolding locking device (24) to press down, locking one end of the covering strip assembly (21), and the material cart (5) drives the other end of the covering strip assembly (21) to move longitudinally along the storage cabinet (4) to realize the complete unfolding of the covering strip assembly (21), thereby realizing the top covering of the storage cabinet (4);

[0085] S4. Cover retraction: When it is necessary to remove the cover, the material cart (5) moves the other end of the cover belt assembly (21) toward the head end of the storage cabinet (4) until it is completely retracted; the locking position detection module (23) outputs a position signal, and the locking drive module (26) drives the unfolding locking device (24) to lift up and release the head end lock; then the cover belt drive module (22) drives the cover belt assembly (21) to retract further to the end of the material cart (5), and the locking drive module (26) drives the retraction locking device (25) to press down, so as to realize the retraction locking of the cover belt assembly (21);

[0086] S5. Cleaning extension: When the storage tank (4) has finished discharging the material and it is necessary to clean the residual material residue, the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) in the variable height material device (1) extends out, and the drive module three (33) drives the spraying device (31) to extend to the bottom working position of the storage tank (4).

[0087] S6. Blowing and cleaning: The blowing device (31) sprays compressed gas, and the material cart (5) drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to move longitudinally along the storage tank (4). The blowing airflow gradually blows the residual material to the discharge port at the end of the storage tank (4).

[0088] S7. Cleaning and retraction: When the blow-in detection module (32) detects that the blow-in device (31) has reached the correct position, the control unit shuts off the air source and the blow-in action stops; the drive module three (33) drives the blow-in device (31) to retract, and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) further retracts to the original position, completing the cleaning cycle.

[0089] (3) Core technology principles

[0090] The technical principle of the multifunctional material storage system and method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning described in this invention lies in using the storage cabinet 4 as an absolute reference. It adopts three technical mechanisms involving "height-adaptive graded sliding plate material", "flexible linear expansion and contraction + double-locking sealing automatic covering", and "fixed-distance linear sweeping self-cleaning" through the variable height material device 1, automatic covering device 2, and self-cleaning device 3. Through the closed-loop control of "sensing-execution-interlocking", they work together on the same material cart 5 platform to fundamentally reduce breakage and dust, maintain humidity and cleanliness, and ensure safety, reliability and reproducibility under all working conditions through structural closure load-bearing and torsion limiting strategies.

[0091] Principle 1: Near-zero drop and staged slow release principle achieve low material breakage.

[0092] In the multifunctional material storage system and method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning described in this invention, low breakage material is achieved through near-zero drop and graded slow release principles. Specifically, the drop is reduced by using "surface material," and kinetic energy is dissipated through multi-stage sliding or jumping. The closed-loop bearing and precise guidance of the "slide plate → vehicle body → frame" maintain posture stability. The overall effect is to reduce impact peak, decrease breakage and dust, while maintaining the controllability of the pile shape and operating conditions. Firstly, in terms of achieving near-zero drop feeding, the tobacco material position detection module 12 continuously measures the instantaneous elevation of the pile surface. The drive base 13 then controls the multi-stage slide plate mechanism 11 to automatically extend and retract in the Z-axis, maintaining a small and controllable operating gap δ between the discharge port at the end of the slide plate and the material surface. Therefore, the effective drop heff≈δ, significantly reducing the impact velocity of the tobacco material before feeding, and simultaneously decreasing the impact energy per unit mass, thus suppressing the breakage and dust of brittle materials (tobacco leaves or flaky materials) from the source. Secondly, regarding the staged energy release, the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 guides the material from upstream to downstream in stages, with the tobacco material advancing through each stage by sliding and slight tumbling. Specifically, through the frictional work and attitude changes of the multi-stage sliding plates in the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, kinetic energy is converted into heat energy and internal friction (the momentum change caused by the frictional work and turning at each stage), further reducing the discharge speed at the end. Furthermore, the slope, length, and rounded corners of each stage eliminate sudden drops and sharp angles, avoiding instantaneous impact peaks and stress concentrations. The staged energy release process is equivalent to laying multiple buffer steps in space, allowing energy to be released in the form of numerous small events rather than a single large impact, thereby significantly reducing the breakage rate. Thirdly, regarding the closed-loop path of load bearing and guidance, the impact and frictional reaction forces of the tobacco material on the multi-stage sliding plates in the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 form a rigid closed load bearing chain through "multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 → material cart 5 frame → storage cabinet 4 frame or column". This avoids directly applying lateral forces and bending moments to precision sensing and actuator components, ensuring the stability of the attitude and gap control of the multi-stage sliding plates in the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, while suppressing gap drift caused by structural elastic deformation. Fourthly, in terms of control and coordination, in the PLC closed loop, coordinated control is implemented with material level feedback as the main component and travel speed as the auxiliary component. This matches the extension and retraction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 with the X-axis movement of the material cart 5. Small hysteresis loops and arrival confirmation are set to ensure that the unloading port always "follows the material surface without touching it", achieving the technical effect of continuous entry into the cabinet, low impact, and low dust source, thus achieving the goal of "low material breakage".

[0093] Principle 2: Automatic covering is achieved through flexible linear expansion and contraction and double locking sealing principle.

[0094] In the multifunctional material storage system and method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning described in this invention, the automatic covering system, through the combination of axial guidance, tension preload design, and double-end rigid locking of the traction belt, ensures the stability, constant tension, and reliable sealing of the covering belt assembly 21 during the unfolding and retraction process. Furthermore, through precise drive control and locking mechanisms, it not only achieves accurate unfolding and retraction of the covering belt assembly 21 but also ensures effective coverage of the covered area, meeting the functional requirements of sealing and moisture retention. Firstly, regarding the unfolding and retraction execution principle, the corresponding components include a variable height material device 1, a covering belt assembly 21, a covering belt drive module 22, and a locking position detection module 23. The covering belt assembly 21 consists of a guide wheel 211, a support shaft 213, and a cover curtain 212. During operation, the guide wheel 211 rotates through the rolling support shaft 213, thereby driving the cover curtain 212 to move in a straight line or retract, enabling the covering belt to unfold or retract smoothly and ensuring linear stability of the movement. Secondly, the material shielding tape drive module 22 uses a linear module 221 and a pneumatic gripper 222 as actuators. The pneumatic gripper 222 clamps both ends of the support shaft 213 and pushes or pulls along the X-direction to achieve "point-driven—surface unfolding". At the two ends of the unfolding and retracting of the material shielding tape assembly 21, the ends are fixed by pin-type locking (unfolding locking device 24 and retracting locking device 25), which ensures stable positioning of the material shielding tape assembly 21 during unfolding and retracting. Through point-to-point driving, the entire unfolding and retracting process of the material shielding tape can be precisely controlled to prevent panic or loosening caused by external disturbances or internal friction. The locking drive module 26 drives the pins up and down to insert them into the corresponding positions, thereby forming stable line pressure or surface pressure; and the pins cooperate with the sealing edge of the upper edge of the cabinet to form a rapid sealing structure, ensuring that the sealing tape can achieve moisture retention and good working effect during operation. The locking position detection module 23 detects the material shielding belt's status and recovery in real time, providing direct quantities for "unfolding" and "forming," and implementing closed-loop feedback control to ensure accurate operation of the material shielding belt, avoid unstable expansion and contraction, and control its stroke and cycle time.

[0095] Principle 3: Self-cleaning function achieved through fixed-distance linear sweeping and tail-end guiding principle.

[0096] In the multifunctional storage system and method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning described in this invention, the principle of fixed-distance linear sweeping and tail-end guiding utilizes the combined effect of fixed-axis linear sweeping, shearing airflow, and the slight slope at the bottom of the cabinet to directionally clean residual material to the tail-end outlet, achieving self-cleaning within the cabinet. Furthermore, the accurate positioning of the tail-end spraying proximity detection module avoids incomplete cleaning caused by drying, and the fluid-solidification effect further enhances the material movement efficiency, reduces retention, and ensures a thorough cleaning process.

[0097] The self-cleaning function is achieved through the components of the blowing device 31, the blowing position detection module 32, and the drive module 33. Specifically, the self-cleaning function is realized by the effective combination of fixed-distance linear sweeping and tail-end guiding. In the fixed-distance linear sweeping, the drive module 33 drives the blowing device 31 to extend into the cabinet at the multi-stage sliding head end, sweeping at a low and uniform speed along the length of the cabinet with a fixed gap. This low-speed sweeping cleans the bottom of the storage cabinet 4. The nozzles emitted by the blowing device 31 form a bottom-hugging jet stream. This jet stream generates a strong shearing force above the bottom jet stream of the storage cabinet 4, effectively overcoming static air pressure and causing particles inside the storage cabinet 4 to migrate towards the material inlet. From the interaction of the shearing airflow and the slight slope of the bottom plate, the high-shear band formed by the airflow emitted by the blowing device 31 can forcefully break the static tension between the bottom of the warehouse and the storage cabinet 4, thereby promoting the transport. The horizontal design of the bottom of the storage cabinet 4 allows residual material to be cleaned by the thrust of the blown gas. Combined with the pushing action at the end of the blowing, it further guides the residual material towards the tail outlet, ensuring thorough cleaning. Regarding the tail-end flow guidance and perfect blowing detection, the tail-end blowing device 31, with the blowing position detection module 32, ensures accurate positioning during the blowing process, providing an absolute displacement. This prevents accumulation caused by the stack top or thermal expansion and contraction, ensuring that the blowing device 31 always operates at the predetermined air pressure, avoiding cleaning blind spots that may result from positional deviation. From a fluid-solid interaction perspective, the tip generates a jet that adheres to the bottom of the cabinet, overcoming the static friction coefficient between the material and the bottom plate, thus forming a high-shear band. Since the high-shear band can effectively push the material and prevent it from accumulating at the bottom, the design of the rounded corners and low-friction lining of the cabinet body 4 reduces the friction coefficient between the tobacco material and the inner surface of the cabinet, reducing the probability of material accumulating and thus improving the cleaning effect.

[0098] Principle 4: System-integrated interlocking and security domain principle

[0099] This invention discloses a multi-functional material storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning. The system's integrated interlocking and safety domain principle combines interlocking, spatial safety domains, and absolute coordinate references to form a highly safe, precise, and controllable working mechanism. Through interlocking, the system ensures the pre-operation sequence and interdependence between different operations, avoiding operational conflicts. The spatial safety domain calculates and monitors the safe distance between components in real time to prevent physical collisions. The absolute coordinate reference ensures the consistency and reliability of system positioning. Overall, these mechanisms jointly guarantee the system's operation and safety. The PLC uses "material completion + slide return to safe position" as the precondition for covering permission; if the cover is not in the safe position, material handling and cleaning are prohibited; covering actions are blocked when cleaning is occupied, and vice versa. From the perspective of spatial safety domains, the movement outer contour of the multi-level slide mechanism 11, the outer contour of the automatic covering device 2's covering strip, and the working outer contour of the self-cleaning device 3 are defined in three-dimensional geometry as non-intersecting. The minimum safe distance is calculated online and compared with a threshold; if it falls below the threshold, first-level protection is immediately implemented, which can complete the actions of stopping, retracting, and maintaining lock. In terms of absolute coordinates, the jetting position detection module 32 is fixed at one end of the cabinet body 4 at the rear of the cabinet to establish the absolute coordinate reference of the system, ensuring the consistency of topology and restoration and the reversible execution solution.

[0100] Principle 5: Key Force and Energy Control Mechanism of the System

[0101] This invention discloses a multifunctional material storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning. It ensures normal operation and safety through three key energy and mechanical control mechanisms: first, controlling the impact energy of materials during the material handling process through near-zero drop and slippage energy dissipation, reducing equipment damage and material breakage; second, controlling the pressure and tension of the covering belt through locking pins and tensioning mechanisms, ensuring sealing effect and covering accuracy; and third, ensuring the drive system is effectively protected from obstacles and prevents overload damage through torque limiting, force limiting protection, and slippage stop protection. Firstly, from the perspective of material energy control mechanism, to effectively suppress the falling and sliding of tobacco leaves during the material handling process, a near-zero drop strategy and a slippage energy dissipation strategy are adopted. The near-zero drop strategy reduces the vertical distance of tobacco leaves from the discharge port to the pile surface by maintaining a small gap (near-zero drop), thereby reducing the initial velocity (free fall velocity) of the tobacco leaves and thus reducing the impact force and energy transfer of the material hitting the pile surface, avoiding breakage and dust caused by high-energy impacts. Sliding energy dissipation measurement involves the gradual dispersion of the material's kinetic energy during its descent through a multi-stage sliding and tumbling mechanism. This sliding and tumbling process dissipates the kinetic energy of the tobacco material at multiple stages, preventing high-speed collisions during free fall and thus reducing the impact peak and damage to the tobacco material itself. Secondly, from the perspective of the covering pressure control mechanism, the covering system ensures effective covering and sealing of the material, preventing interference from external factors. During the covering process, key force mechanisms include the stabilizing line and surface pressure of the locking pins and the tension within the belt of the tensioning mechanism. The covering system, through the pin locking mechanism, ensures the stable fixation of both ends of the covering belt, forming a uniform line and surface pressure acting on the sealing edge, thereby ensuring sufficient contact pressure between the covering belt and the sealing edge and preventing the sealing effect from being affected by insufficient pressure. Furthermore, in the covering system, the tensioning mechanism maintains appropriate internal tension to ensure that the covering tape assembly 21 does not become loose or wrinkled during unfolding, thus guaranteeing the flatness and stability of the covering tape assembly 21 and ensuring the uniformity and sealing of the covering effect. Thirdly, from the perspective of the drive protection mechanism, the drive system is the core of the material and covering system, and the protection mechanism ensures that the drive assembly can effectively protect the equipment when encountering obstacles or overload conditions. The linear module 221 is equipped with torque and force limiting devices, which can prevent the drive device from overloading by limiting the maximum torque or force when the drive system encounters obstacles or overload. When the drive module 13 encounters resistance or obstacles, the force limiting device will cause the drive device to slip or stop, which can effectively prevent the drive system from being damaged due to overload, while protecting the tape from excessive pulling or damage.

[0102] (4) Effects of the invention

[0103] The present invention discloses a multifunctional storage system and method that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning. Based on full consideration of the structure and connection method of the storage cabinet and material cart, it can integrate the three functions of covering, low breakage, and self-cleaning into one system. Its structure is reasonable, space utilization is high, and automation is high, which can greatly reduce manual intervention and reduce economic costs.

[0104] Specifically, the multifunctional material storage system and method of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, forms a closed-loop optimization in terms of structural coordination, control logic, and safety mechanism. Compared with the traditional solution of "fixed feeding chute + manual covering + shutdown cleaning", it mainly achieves the following beneficial technical effects:

[0105] The variable height material handling device 1 of this invention uses a multi-stage sliding plate mechanism to extend and retract according to the real-time height of the material, which can significantly reduce the free fall of the material and reduce the impact of falling material, thereby effectively reducing the breakage rate of fragile materials such as tobacco. At the same time, the variable height material handling device 1 achieves uniform and stable laying of the material during the material handling process, improving the material accuracy and overall quality, and avoiding uneven accumulation problems caused by excessive drop.

[0106] The automatic covering device 2 of this invention adopts an integrated structure of "flexible covering belt + guide - tensioning - double locking + position detection". After the material is finished, it can quickly unfold and reliably lock, forming a stable seal and compression on the opening of the storage tank 4, thereby effectively ensuring the stability of the humidity inside the storage tank and reducing moisture loss. The covering process of the automatic covering device 2 is fully automated, which can prevent dust from escaping and external pollutants from entering, providing long-term protection for the materials inside the storage tank 4 and maintaining their quality.

[0107] The self-cleaning device 3 of the present invention has a pressure stabilizing chamber inside and a sweeping and blowing opening strip on the bottom surface. It can move synchronously with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to form a bottom-mounted directional airflow at the bottom of the storage tank 4, thereby effectively removing residual material residue after discharge, reducing material accumulation and cross-contamination, keeping the internal environment of the storage tank 4 clean and hygienic, reducing the intensity of manual cleaning, and significantly improving the overall operation efficiency.

[0108] This invention establishes interlocking logic and safety distance constraints among the variable-height material handling device 1, the automatic covering device 2, and the self-cleaning device 3 to achieve coordinated operation of the material handling, covering, and cleaning processes, avoiding spatial interference between these processes. Simultaneously, the invention employs a multi-level protection strategy, including locking and holding, torque limiting, and stroke and position detection measures. In case of abnormalities, it can automatically stop the machine and maintain the current safe state, effectively preventing mechanical damage and secondary accidents. Furthermore, this invention utilizes a triple-holding locking mechanism consisting of deployment locking, retraction locking, drum self-locking, and a brake to ensure reliable fixation of the material covering belt in a static state, significantly improving the operational safety and long-term stability of the device.

[0109] This invention utilizes a horizontal bottom structure in the storage tank 4, combined with the sweeping airflow generated by the self-cleaning device 3, to ensure that residual material can smoothly collect at the discharge port, effectively reducing material retention. Furthermore, the overall system design of this invention exhibits excellent compatibility, applicable not only to the material handling and storage of tobacco leaves and sheets in the tobacco industry, but also to the storage of lightweight bulk materials that are sensitive to breakage and require moisture retention, dust prevention, and automatic cleaning, demonstrating strong adaptability and application value. Attached Figure Description

[0110] Figure 1 This is an overall structural diagram of a multifunctional material storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions, including a combination and installation relationship diagram of the main components such as a variable height material device 1, an automatic covering device 2, a self-cleaning device 3, a storage cabinet 4, and a material cart 5.

[0111] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multifunctional material storage system integrating moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions of the present invention under the conditions of covering and cleaning, including the installation position diagram of variable height material device 1, material cart 5, storage cabinet 4 and spraying position detection module 32.

[0112] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a multi-functional material storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions in the material handling process of the present invention. It shows the working state of tobacco material being sent into the storage cabinet 4 by the material cart 5 through the variable height material device 1 and achieving uniform laying.

[0113] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the combined structure of the self-cleaning device 3, the variable height material device 1, the automatic covering device 2, and the material cart 5 of a multifunctional material storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions according to the present invention.

[0114] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the self-cleaning device 3 and the drive module 13 in a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions according to the present invention.

[0115] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the self-cleaning device 3 in a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions, and its cooperation with the drive module 13 and drive module 33. It includes the layout diagram of the nozzle 311, air pipe 312 and support 313 of the blowing device 31.

[0116] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-cleaning device 31 in the multifunctional storage system of the present invention, which extends and works under the action of the drive module 13 and the drive module 33. It shows the operating state diagram of the nozzle 311, air pipe 312, and support 313 of the blowing device 31 as they move with the mechanism.

[0117] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-cleaning device 3 in a multi-functional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions of the present invention, which is lowered and operated under the action of the drive module 13 and the linkage mechanism. It shows the state of the blowing device 31 (nozzle 311, air pipe 312, bracket 313) close to the bottom of the cabinet to perform cleaning operations.

[0118] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the self-cleaning device 3 in a multi-functional storage system that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions. The device is fully lowered to the working position under the action of the drive module 33, and is used for full-width sweeping and cleaning at the bottom of the storage tank.

[0119] Figure 10 This is a structural diagram of the key components of the automatic covering device 2 in a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions. It includes the cooperation relationship between the covering belt drive module 22, the locking position detection module 23, the unfolding locking device 24, the retracting locking device 25 and the locking drive module 26 with the material cart 5, the storage cabinet 4 and the self-cleaning device 3.

[0120] Figure 11 This is a key component layout diagram of the automatic covering device 2 in a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions. It includes the cooperation relationship between the covering belt drive module 22, the unfolding locking device 24, the retracting locking device 25 and the locking drive module 26 with the material cart 5, the variable height material device 1, the self-cleaning device 3 and the storage cabinet 4.

[0121] Figure 12This is a partial structural diagram of the automatic covering device 2 in a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions according to the present invention. It includes the installation and cooperation relationship between the covering belt drive module 22, the locking position detection module 23, the unfolding locking device 24, the retracting locking device 25, and the locking drive module 26 with the material cart 5, the storage cabinet 4, and the self-cleaning device 3.

[0122] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the operating state of the automatic covering device 2 in a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions. It includes the cooperative application of the covering belt drive module 22, the locking position detection module 23, the unfolding locking device 24, the retracting locking device 25 and the locking drive module 26 on the material cart 5 and the storage cabinet 4.

[0123] Figure 14 This is a diagram of the spray assembly 31 and its cooperation structure with the drive module 33 of the self-cleaning device of a multifunctional storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions. It is used to generate directional airflow at the bottom of the storage tank to remove residual material.

[0124] Figure 15 This is a detailed structural diagram of the blowing component 31 in the self-cleaning device 3 of a multifunctional storage system integrating moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions of the present invention. It includes an air pipe 312, a support 313 and its connection relationship with the drive module 33, which are used to form a directional blowing airflow.

[0125] Figure 16 This is a detailed structural diagram of the material covering belt assembly 21 in the automatic covering device 2 of a multifunctional material storage system that integrates moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions according to the present invention, including the combination of guide wheel 211, cover curtain 212 and support shaft 213.

[0126] Figure 17 This is a diagram showing the position of the spraying position detection module 32 in the self-cleaning device 3 of a multifunctional storage system integrating moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions of the present invention, which is installed on the side wall of the storage cabinet 4 and is used to detect the position status of the spraying device 31.

[0127] Figure 18 This is a detailed structural diagram of the unfolding and locking device 24 in the automatic covering device 2 of a multifunctional storage system integrating moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions of the present invention, including the cooperation relationship of the mounting plate 241, the limiting groove 242 and the unfolding and locking device pin 243 in the unfolding and locking device 24.

[0128] Figure 19The structure details of the material covering belt drive module in the automatic covering device 2 of the multifunctional material storage system integrating moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions of the present invention include the cylinder body 221 and the pneumatic claw 222 connected thereto.

[0129] Figure 20 This is a detailed structural diagram of the unfolding locking device 24 in the automatic covering device 2 of a multifunctional storage system integrating moisturizing, low breakage and self-cleaning functions of the present invention, including the combination relationship of locking slider 241, limiting groove 242 and locking detection element 243.

[0130] Figure 21 This is a cross-sectional view of the automatic covering device 2 of the multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions of the present invention during the retraction process, showing the operation of the winding mechanism (unwinding locking device 24, retraction locking device 25) and the covering strip in the guide assembly.

[0131] Figure 22 This is a cross-sectional view of the automatic covering device 2 of the multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions of the present invention during the unfolding process, showing the working state of the covering strip being gradually pulled out by the guide rollers to cover the opening of the storage tank.

[0132] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view of the automatic covering device 2 of a multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions after it has been unfolded, showing the working state in which the covering strip covers the opening of the storage tank and forms a sealed and compacted state.

[0133] Figure 24 This is a front view structural diagram of a multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions according to the present invention, showing the overall installation layout of the automatic covering device 2 and the storage cabinet 4.

[0134] [Icon Numbers]:

[0135] Variable height material handling unit 1, automatic covering device 2, self-cleaning device 3, storage cabinet body 4, material cart 5;

[0136] 11. Multi-stage sliding plate mechanism; 12. Material position detection module; 13. Drive module 1; 21. Material shielding belt assembly; 22. Material shielding belt drive module; 23. Locking position detection module; 24. Unfolding locking device; 25. Retracting locking device; 26. Locking drive module.

[0137] 31. Pulsating device; 32. Pulsating position detection module; 33. Drive module.

[0138] Guide wheel 211, cover curtain 212, support shaft 213, linear module 221, pneumatic claw 222, unfolding locking device mounting plate 241, limiting groove 242, unfolding locking device pin 243, retracting locking device mounting plate 251, retracting locking device pin 253;

[0139] Nozzle 311, air tube 312, bracket 313. Detailed Implementation

[0140] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments, further elaborates on the present invention's multifunctional storage system and storage method, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning functions, but is not limited to the embodiments.

[0141] like Figures 1-24 As shown, the variable height material handling device 1 is located below the material cart 5 near the discharge end and can move with the material cart 5. The automatic covering device 2 is located above the storage cabinet 4 and can move with the material cart 5. The material cart 5 is located on the upper part of the storage cabinet 4. The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 is located below the material cart 5. The material position detection module 12 is located on the side of the storage cabinet 4 and is used to detect the height position of the material inside the storage cabinet 4. The drive module 13 is located below the material cart 5 and is used to drive the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to extend and retract. The material covering belt drive module 22 is fixedly installed on the side of the storage cabinet 4 and is used to drive the material covering belt assembly 21 to unfold or retract. The locking position detection module 23 is located on the side of the storage cabinet 4 near the head end of the storage cabinet 4 and is used to detect the position of the end of the material covering belt assembly 21 after unfolding. The unfolding locking device 24 is located on the side of the storage cabinet 4 and is used to lock or unlock the material covering belt assembly 21 after unfolding. The retraction locking device 25 is located on the side of the storage cabinet 4 near the locking drive module 26, and is used to lock or unlock the retracted material shielding strip assembly 21. The locking drive module 26 is located on the side of the storage cabinet 4 and is used to drive the unfolding locking device 24 and the retraction locking device 25.

[0142] like Figures 1-24 As shown, the self-cleaning device 3 is located at the head end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, used to clean the residual material residue inside the storage tank 4 after discharge. During cleaning, the blowing device 31 is located below the head of the extended end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 of the variable height material device 1, near the bottom of the storage tank 4. The blowing device 31 blows out air to sweep away the residual material residue at the bottom of the storage tank 4. The blowing position detection module 32 is located at the rear of the side of the storage tank 4, used to detect the position of the blowing device 31. The drive module 33 is located at the bottom of the head end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, used to drive the blowing device 31 to extend and retract.

[0143] like Figures 1-24 As shown, the main working process of the multifunctional storage system and method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning described in this invention is as follows:

[0144] When the storage tank 4 issues a loading request, the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 55 in the variable height material device 1 installed on the material cart 5 extends to the bottom of the storage tank 4. The material on the material cart 5 slides down into the storage tank 4 through the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. The material position detection module 12 detects the height position of the material inside the storage tank 4 and transmits the position information to the drive module 13. The drive module 13 drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to retract step by step until it is completely retracted to its original position according to the material height position information.

[0145] After the material is completed and the signal to cover it is issued, the locking drive module drives the retracting locking device to unlock one end of the material covering strip assembly. The material covering strip drive module drives one end of the material covering strip assembly to gradually extend towards the head of the storage tank until the locking position detection module detects that the material covering strip assembly 21 has extended to the correct position. The locking position detection module 23 transmits a signal to the locking drive module 26. The locking drive module 26 drives the unfolding locking device 24 located at the head of the storage tank 4 to move downwards, locking one end of the material covering strip assembly 21. The material cart 5 drives the other end of the material covering strip assembly 21 to move towards the tail of the storage tank 4 until the material covering strip assembly 21 is fully unfolded. When the material does not need to be covered, the material cart 5 moves the other end of the covering strip assembly 24 toward the head of the storage tank 4 until the other end of the covering strip assembly 21 retracts into place. The locking position detection module 23 transmits a signal to the locking drive module 26. The locking drive module 26 drives the unfolding locking device 24 located at the head of the storage tank 4 to move upward and unlock the covering strip assembly 21 near the head of the storage tank 4. The covering strip drive module 22 drives the covering strip assembly 21 near the head of the storage tank 4 to retract into place toward the head of the material cart 5. The locking position detection module 23 transmits a signal to the locking drive module 26. The locking drive module 26 drives the retracting locking device 25 to move downward and lock the covering strip assembly 21.

[0146] When the material in the storage tank is discharged and the remaining residue needs to be cleaned, the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 in the variable height material handling device 1 extends. The drive module 33 drives the blowing device 31 installed at the head end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to extend into position. Gas is blown out through the blowing device 31. The material cart 5 drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, which in turn drives the blowing device 31 to move towards the tail end of the storage tank body 4. The blowing gas blows the remaining residue to the discharge port at the tail end of the storage tank body 4. When the blowing position detection module 32 detects that the blowing device has moved into position, the gas stops blowing out. The drive module 33 drives the blowing device 31 to retract to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 further retracts to its original position.

[0147] Therefore, the present invention provides a multifunctional material storage system and method that integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning. Besides its use in the tobacco industry for material handling, covering, and cleaning of tobacco leaves and sheets, it can also be used in other fields for material handling, covering, and cleaning of fragile, lightweight materials.

[0148] Furthermore, the material storage method of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, comprises the following specific steps:

[0149] S1. Loading: When the storage tank (4) issues a loading request, the material cart (5) moves to the top of the storage tank (4), and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) in the variable height material device (1) arranged below it extends to near the bottom of the storage tank (4), and the material slides into the storage tank (4) through the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11).

[0150] S2. Height detection and material recovery: The material position detection module (12) detects the height of the material inside the storage cabinet (4) and transmits the detection signal to the drive module (13). The drive module (13) drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to retract step by step until it is completely retracted to the original position.

[0151] S3. Covering and unfolding: When the covering signal is received, the locking drive module (26) first drives the retracting locking device (25) to unlock, and the covering belt drive module (22) drives the covering belt assembly (21) to gradually extend towards the head end of the storage cabinet (4) until the locking position detection module (23) detects that the covering belt assembly (21) is in place; then the locking drive module (26) drives the unfolding locking device (24) to press down, locking one end of the covering belt assembly (21), and the material cart (5) drives the other end of the covering belt assembly (21) to move longitudinally along the storage cabinet (4) to realize the complete unfolding of the covering belt assembly (21), thereby realizing the top covering of the storage cabinet (4).

[0152] S4. Cover retraction: When it is necessary to remove the cover, the material cart (5) moves the other end of the cover belt assembly (21) toward the head end of the storage cabinet (4) until it is completely retracted; the locking position detection module (23) outputs a position signal, and the locking drive module (26) drives the unfolding locking device (24) to lift up and release the head end lock; then the cover belt drive module (22) drives the cover belt assembly (21) to retract further to the end of the material cart (5), and the locking drive module (26) drives the retraction locking device (25) to press down, so as to realize the retraction locking of the cover belt assembly (21);

[0153] S5. Cleaning extension: When the storage tank (4) has finished discharging the material and it is necessary to clean the residual material residue, the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) in the variable height material device (1) extends out, and the drive module three (33) drives the spraying device (31) to extend to the bottom working position of the storage tank (4).

[0154] S6. Blowing and cleaning: The blowing device (31) sprays compressed gas, and the material cart (5) drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to move longitudinally along the storage tank (4). The blowing airflow gradually blows the residual material to the discharge port at the end of the storage tank (4).

[0155] S7. Cleaning and retraction: When the blow-in detection module (32) detects that the blow-in device (31) has reached the correct position, the control unit shuts off the air source and the blow-in action stops; the drive module three (33) drives the blow-in device (31) to retract, and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) further retracts to the original position, completing the cleaning cycle.

[0156] Furthermore, the multifunctional material storage system of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, mainly comprises a variable height material handling device 1, an automatic covering device 2, a self-cleaning device 3, a storage cabinet 4, and a material cart 5; the following is a detailed description of each component:

[0157] Variable height material handling device 1

[0158] The variable height material handling device 1 is based on a multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, forming a sliding platform that can extend and retract vertically. The drive module 13 can adopt any linear execution scheme such as servo motor-screw, servo motor-synchronous belt, or electric cylinder, and forms a lifting execution unit with linear guide rails, roller sliders, and other guide pairs and stroke limit devices. The warehouse position detection module 12 of the variable height material handling device 1 is fixed to the side wall of the storage cabinet 4 and outputs the material level height signal in real time. The PLC calculates the target stroke of the sliding plate based on the target unloading height or allowable drop and drives the drive module 13 in a closed loop to achieve lifting and height adjustment. The guide or limit pair provides kinematic constraints and overtravel protection. Fasteners are installed to ensure the rigid connection and geometric stability between the device and the material cart 5, thereby forming a cascaded closed-loop control with the material level as the outer loop and the sliding plate position as the inner loop, realizing automatic adjustment of the sliding plate height. If necessary, a low-friction and wear-resistant layer is applied to the working surface of the sliding plate, and a rounded front edge and side guide are provided to ensure layered unloading and impact reduction.

[0159] The variable height material handling device 1 is flat and elongated in shape, similar to a sliding platform structure, allowing for telescopic movement and height adjustment to adapt to different warehouse material height requirements.

[0160] The variable-height material handling device 1 and the material cart 5 are installed in a stacked structure, and can move with the material cart 5 to facilitate material transportation and unloading operations. The multi-layer sliding plate mechanism 11 can extend and retract vertically, and adjusts the extension distance of the sliding plate in conjunction with the material height information provided by the material position detection module 12 to ensure that the material is laid at a suitable height. The material position detection module 12 is fixed to the side of the storage cabinet 4, and provides information to the drive module 13 in real time by detecting the height changes inside the storage cabinet. The drive module 13 controls the extension and retraction of the multi-layer sliding plate mechanism 11 according to the information from the warehouse position detection module to adapt to changes in warehouse height and achieve precise material laying.

[0161] The variable height material handling device 1 works in conjunction with other components as follows: the material shielding belt drive module 22 is installed on the side of the material shielding belt assembly, driving the material shielding belt to expand or contract, cooperating with the variable height material handling device 1 to ensure accurate delivery of tobacco materials and prevent dust scattering; the locking detection module 23 and the locking drive module 26 cooperate to lock and unlock the material shielding belt assembly, ensuring precise positioning between components during device operation and providing a stable working environment; the design and configuration of the variable height material handling device 1 ensures that it can accurately coordinate with material operations according to changes in the height inside the warehouse, and effectively reduce dust and breakage problems in the warehouse. The variable height material handling device 1, the material cart 5, and the automatic covering device 2 form a collaborative operation relationship.

[0162] The main function of the variable height material handling device 1 is to adjust the material position according to the real-time height of the tobacco leaves in the warehouse, thereby reducing the impact of falling materials, lowering the breakage rate, and improving the efficiency and quality of warehousing operations. The variable height material handling device 1 can automatically adapt to changes in material height. Based on the material height position information sensed by the warehouse position detection module, the drive module drives the multi-layer sliding plate mechanism to extend and retract vertically, automatically adjusting the material height. The variable height material handling device 1 can reduce material drop and impact. Through the height adjustment of the multi-layer sliding plate mechanism, the material drop is reduced, thereby significantly reducing the impact force generated when the material falls, effectively reducing material breakage in the storage cabinet. The variable height material handling device 1 can improve material precision and quality, ensuring that the material is laid evenly and stably at different heights, achieving high-quality material results, and improving overall warehousing operation efficiency and material preservation quality.

[0163] Automatic covering device 2

[0164] The automatic covering device 2 is composed of a covering tape assembly 21, a covering tape drive module 22, a locking detection module 23, an unfolding locking device 24, a fixed locking device 25, and a locking drive module 26, forming an integrated system of "flexible covering tape + rewind drive + double locking + position detection". The automatic covering device 2 is elongated and installed above the storage cabinet 4, covering the entire top surface of the storage cabinet. The elongated, upper-mounted mechanism of the automatic covering device 2 is arranged along the length of the storage cabinet 4, and the exposed unit drive box and locking seat are rectangular blocks. The automatic covering device 2 works in conjunction with the material cart 5, using a roller drive to move the material cart 5 to cover or retract the tobacco material, maintaining its moisture and preventing contamination. A locking mechanism ensures the safety of the covering. The covering strip of the automatic covering device 2 is a roller-shaped strip that unfolds into a flat strip covering surface with a width ≥ “net width + (30~60) mm” of overlap at the storage cabinet opening. A rectangular end reinforcement beam is provided at the end. The guide wheels 211 of the automatic covering device 2 are located in U-shaped or V-shaped guide grooves on both sides of the opening, equipped with rollers and sliders to control the parallel unfolding of the covering strip and prevent deviation. The covering strip assembly 21 is a roller-shaped strip that unfolds into a flat, flexible covering surface, covering the storage cabinet opening. The drive module and locking mechanism are both close to the side wall of the storage cabinet, with a rectangular block shape and compact size.

[0165] The automatic covering device 2 is installed above the storage tank body 4, arranged along the length of the storage tank. The material covering belt drive module 22 is fixed to the side of the storage tank, near the winding end; the locking position detection module 23 is located at the other end of the storage tank and is used to monitor the material covering belt being fully extended; the unfolding locking device 24 is installed at the top front end of the storage tank and fixes the end of the material covering belt; the retraction locking device 25 is located near the reel end and is used to lock the material covering belt when it is retracted.

[0166] The connection and spatial positional changes of the automatic covering device 2 with other components are described in detail below.

[0167] The automatic covering device 2 is connected to the material cart 5 by fixing one end of the covering strip assembly to the material cart, and the covering strip is unfolded to the rear of the storage tank by moving the material cart. The automatic covering device 2 and the material cart 5 adopt a rigid traction-hook connection, that is, the end reinforcing beam of the non-driving end of the covering strip is matched with the traction and hooking seat on the top of the material cart 5. The hooking form is "dovetail slider + quick pin" or "fork lug + cylindrical pin", and is supplemented by self-locking bolt limit to achieve a shear-bending composite connection. The hooking seat is provided with a ±10m long circular adjustment groove along the length of the tank for alignment and assembly of the guide rails on both sides, thermal expansion and contraction compensation, and static torque is evenly transmitted through the rectangular bearing surface of the end reinforcing beam to avoid local tearing. In terms of operational coordination, during the unfolding phase, the material cart 5 moves forward at a low and uniform speed along the length of the cabinet, pulling the automatic covering device 2 so that the covering strip unfolds parallel to the top surface. When it reaches the head end, the locking position detection module 23 determines that it is "fully unfolded" and then drives the unfolding locking device 24 to press and lock it. During the retraction phase, the material cart 5 is sent back to the head end in the opposite direction. First, the unfolding locking device 24 is lifted to unlock it, and then the covering strip drive module 22 performs winding until the locking position detection module 23 determines that it is "fully retracted" and then the retraction locking device 25 completes the locking. In case of malfunction or abnormality, such as speed mismatch or overshoot, or the torque of the covering strip drive module 22 exceeding the limit, the material cart 5 should immediately decelerate and stop. The covering strip of the automatic covering device 2 enters the holding state and maintains the most recent locking (the unfolding locking device 24 or the retraction locking device 25) to ensure that the automatic covering device 2 does not shift or suffer secondary damage.

[0168] The automatic covering device 2 is connected to the storage cabinet 4 by the drive module and locking mechanism being installed on the side of the storage cabinet, maintaining a guiding relationship with the material covering strip assembly, forming an integrated solution of "fixed installation + guidance / sealing". The drive module 22, the unfolding locking device 24, the retracting locking device 25, and the left and right guide rails (U / V grooves) are all rigidly installed on the side wall and upper edge of the storage cabinet 4 by "bolts + positioning pins", wherein the parallelism of the guide rail relative to the reference line of the inner surface of the cabinet bottom is ≤0.30 mm, and the consistency of the nominal distance between the two rails is ≤±2 mm; the drive box base is assembled by "positioning holes + fastening bolts", and an elongated oval mounting hole is provided on the base to compensate for dimensional drift and assembly deviation caused by temperature difference. The material covering strip of the automatic covering device 2 is extended parallel to the length of the cabinet under the constraint of the guide grooves and rollers on both sides. The deviation correction mechanism is arranged with an eccentric adjustment wheel at the beginning and end of each side. The overlap between the automatic covering device 2 and the cabinet body 4 is ≥15 mm. The sealing strip of the unfolding locking device 24 forms a stable line or surface pressure on the sealing platform of the cabinet body to achieve moisture retention and dust prevention. The winding end is locked by the retraction locking device 25 in the retracted state to prevent the covering strip from being released spontaneously due to vibration or rebound.

[0169] The automatic covering device 2 is connected to the variable height material handling device 1 so that the covering action is initiated after the material handling is completed, ensuring that the sliding plate mechanism is not interfered with during the material handling process. An electrical control coupling relationship of "interlocking timing + safety domain constraint" is established between the automatic covering device 2 and the variable height material handling device 1: only when the material handling is completed and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 returns to the safe position can the PLC issue a covering permission, allowing the material covering belt drive module 22 to perform unloading / rewinding; otherwise, when the covering is not in the safe position, the system forcibly prohibits material handling and cleaning. Furthermore, the signal mapping relationship between the automatic covering device 2 and the variable height material device 1 is as follows: the variable height material device 1 provides the automatic covering device 2 and the upper controller with the slide return to the safe position and the material completion status signal; the automatic covering device 2 feeds back the running occupancy flag and the covering status enumeration quantity to the variable height material device 1 and the upper controller; the interlock priority follows the principle of "interference prevention takes precedence over action efficiency", that is, when either side is in an occupancy state, the system automatically blocks the motion command of the other side and maintains the current state of locking; in terms of space protection, the motion outline of the multi-level slide mechanism 11 and the working outline of the covering strip are defined as non-intersecting regions in the three-dimensional model; the PLC calculates the minimum safe distance in real time based on the stroke or encoder feedback and pose estimation, and compares it with the threshold of 50 mm. When an anomaly occurs, such as a minimum safe distance of <50 mm, interlock signal jitter, or timeout of position confirmation, the system immediately executes Level 1 protection, namely, stopping the cover drive 22 and maintaining the current locking state of the unfolding locking device 24 and the retracting locking device 25; if the anomaly is caused by the movement of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, the system synchronously decelerates and stops, maintaining the sliding plate in the safe position until it resets. To suppress the overlap of working areas caused by thermal expansion and contraction and assembly errors, the system automatically performs a self-check of the zero position and working area after power-on or shift change, including consistency verification of the zero position reference, tail end reference, and Z-axis clearance reference.

[0170] The automatic covering device 2 and the self-cleaning device 3 form a control coupling relationship of work area isolation and time-sequence interlock. When the self-cleaning device 3 is in the nozzle lowering or cleaning occupying state, the movement command of the material covering belt drive module 22 of the automatic covering device 2 is automatically blocked; when the automatic covering device 2 is in the execution occupying state, the vertical lowering and air supply commands of the self-cleaning device 3 are locked. After either side is released from occupation, the interlock can only be released and the operation can only be resumed on the premise that the other side is in a safe position (retracted and locked). In abnormal operating conditions, if the self-cleaning device 3 has been lowered but the covering mechanism malfunctions due to signal jitter, the system will execute the first-level protection sequence, immediately stop the material covering belt drive module 22, shut off the self-cleaning air supply, and cause the self-cleaning device 3 to retract vertically to the safe position. The system will also maintain the unfolding locking function of the unfolding locking device 24 and the current locking state of the retraction locking device 25 until manual confirmation and reset. The entire process will record the timestamp, the position of the traveling axis along the length of the cabinet, the vertical position of the self-cleaning device 3, and key parameters such as the driving torque and current of the relevant actuators for subsequent traceability and maintenance verification.

[0171] The spatial change of the automatic covering device 2 is as follows: when the covering strip is unfolded, the material cart moves towards the rear of the storage tank, and at the same time the covering strip unfolds along the horizontal plane until it covers the entire opening of the storage tank; when it is retracted, the material cart 5 moves towards the head of the storage tank body 4, and the covering strip rolls back to the drive end.

[0172] Under static conditions, the automatic covering device 2 is in a retracted and locked safe state. The material covering strip of the automatic covering device 2 is completely rolled back to the drive end, the retraction locking device 25 applies pressure locking, and the unfolding locking device 24 is in the lifted and released position; the material covering strip drive module 22 stops running and maintains the drum torque balance through mechanical self-locking or electric brake, the tensioning mechanism maintains the necessary pretension to prevent slack and rewinding, and the guide component returns to the reference position; the locking position detection module 23 simultaneously outputs "retracted in place" and "locked in place" double confirmation signals; the upper controller determines that the covering has entered the zero-position sealing and anti-loosening working condition, releases the interlock restriction on the material and the self-cleaning channel, and the device maintains a long-term stable safe parking state.

[0173] Under operating conditions, the automatic covering device 2 executes according to a predetermined sequence. Upon receiving the covering command, the locking drive module 26 first lifts and retracts the locking device 25 to unlock it. Then, the covering belt drive module 22 releases the belt and drives the drum to rotate. The material cart 5 pulls the covering belt at a low and uniform speed along the X direction, spreading it parallel within the guide rails on both sides. When the locking position detection module 23 (head end) determines that the covering is "fully extended," the locking drive module 26 presses down the unfolding locking device 24 to lock the head end. The material cart 5 continues to the tail end until full coverage is achieved. The retraction is performed in reverse sequence, that is, when the material cart 5 returns to the head end, the locking drive module 26 lifts and unlocks the unfolding locking device 24, and the covering belt drive module 22 rewinds it until the locking position detection module 23 confirms that the covering is "fully extended." Then, the locking drive module 26 presses down the retracting locking device 25 to lock it. In case of abnormalities such as timeout or over-torque, the system automatically stops and maintains the current locking state.

[0174] Furthermore, the working principle of the automatic covering device 2 is as follows: the output torque of the drum and the traction of the material cart together realize the linear unfolding and retraction of the covering tape. The three units of "guiding-tensioning-locking" ensure that the tape surface is flat, the tension is stable, and the end is reliably fixed. The path turning is achieved by the guide roller and the corner pulley, which smoothly transitions the axial unwinding of the drum to the longitudinal movement along the top of the cabinet, and the rounded corner guide block achieves the crossing of the edge without creases. The static holding relies on the double locking of the head end of the unfolding locking device 24 and the winding end of the rewinding locking device 25 to form a triple holding with the drum brake and self-locking. The pressure mechanism is manifested in the flatness of the tension inside the tape and the guiding pressure. The head end locking forms a stable line or surface pressure on the sealing surface of the cabinet opening. The torque limiter slips under the hindrance condition to limit the peak force and protect the mechanism of the automatic covering device 2. In a stationary state, the head-end unfolding locking device 24 and the retracting locking device 25 form a double locking mechanism, which, together with the drum brake and self-locking, constitutes a triple holding mechanism. The tensioning mechanism continuously provides pretension to counteract the slack rewinding caused by wind disturbance, vibration, and temperature and humidity changes. During the turning process, the material-shielding tape is released axially from the drum and smoothly converted into longitudinal movement along the top of the cabinet via guide rollers or corner pulleys. Rounded corner guide blocks are set at the edges of the cabinet head or tail to achieve smooth edge crossing and avoid creases and stress concentration. The pressure mechanism is manifested in the following ways: First, the belt tension established by the driving torque and the tensioning mechanism is used to maintain the flatness of the belt surface and to generate necessary pressure on the guide surface; Second, the head-end locking forms a stable line and surface pressure on the cabinet sealing surface to ensure moisture retention and dustproof sealing; Third, a torque limiting mechanism is provided on the drum side, which automatically slips in case of abnormal resistance to limit the peak force and protect the transmission and belt body.

[0175] The automatic covering device 2 works in conjunction with other components as follows: after material is completed, a control signal is received to initiate the covering action, and the locking module ensures that the covering is in place and locked. When the covering strip is fully extended, the extension locking device activates to prevent loosening; and when retracting, the retraction locking device activates to ensure that the covering strip is tightened. When the automatic covering device 2 works with the material cart, it facilitates the movement of the material cart to assist in the extension or retraction of the covering strip. When the automatic covering device 2 works with the detection module, the locking position detection module provides feedback on the position of the covering strip to prevent misoperation.

[0176] Self-cleaning device 3

[0177] The self-cleaning device 3 is an integrated strip-shaped component, comprising a strip-shaped shell, a pressure-stabilizing chamber and continuous air path, a bottom sweeping opening strip, end guide and anti-collision components, a fixed-distance limiting interface, an integrated interface for the front mounting base, an air supply and pressure measurement interface area, and a sealing and dustproof design. The shell of the self-cleaning device 3 is a slender strip-shaped shell with a rectangular or rounded rectangular thin-walled cross-section, and its length is slightly less than the effective width inside the storage tank. The outer surface of the shell of the self-cleaning device 3 is provided with an installation reference and protective chamfers. The shell of the self-cleaning device 3 forms a main pressure-stabilizing chamber, distribution branches, and guide ribs to ensure the uniformity of flow and pulsation suppression along the width direction. The bottom sweeping opening strip of the self-cleaning device 3 is located on the bottom surface of the shell as a continuous slit or equidistant row of holes, with an overall forward tilt angle relative to the horizontal plane to generate a bottom-hugging directional sweeping airflow. The bottom sweeping opening strip can be made of... Replacement of the liner or nozzle strip facilitates maintenance; the strip-shaped housing of the self-cleaning device 3 is equipped with rounded guide heads or small rollers at both ends as end guide and anti-collision components, which guide and prevent collisions when running close to the cabinet wall; the housing of the self-cleaning device 3 is provided with a connection and limiting surface that matches the vertical distance adjustment mechanism of the whole machine, i.e., a fixed distance limiting interface, which is used to maintain a constant gap and repeatable positioning between the working and retracting postures; the front mounting base integrated interface of the self-cleaning device 3 is an integrated or semi-integrated connection area between the upper front side of the housing and the front mounting base, including a reference surface, positioning holes and slots and fastening positions, which is used to achieve load bearing and rigid connection; the air supply and pressure measurement interface area of ​​the self-cleaning device 3 is provided with an air inlet, a pressure measurement port and a bundle tube fixing position on the upper rear side of the housing of the self-cleaning device 3, so as to connect with the follow-up hose and drag chain and realize air path monitoring. The sealing and dustproof design of the self-cleaning device 3 is to provide sealing and anti-loosening components at the junction of the bottom sweeping opening and the housing of the self-cleaning device 3. The end cap of the housing of the self-cleaning device 3 adopts an openable structure to clean the deposits inside the self-cleaning device 3.

[0178] The self-cleaning device 3 is an integrated linear sweeping and blowing assembly. The self-cleaning device 3 can move back and forth synchronously with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 and can vertically approach or move away from the strip-shaped cleaning module inside the storage cabinet 4 at a fixed distance. The self-cleaning device 3 is provided with a continuous air passage and a pressure stabilizing chamber. The bottom surface of the self-cleaning device 3 forms sweeping and blowing openings distributed along the width direction. The self-cleaning device 3 is rigidly fixed to the lower side of the head of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 through the front mounting base of the self-cleaning device 3. When working, the self-cleaning device 3 extends close to the bottom of the cabinet as a whole to perform linear sweeping and blowing. When not working, the self-cleaning device 3 retracts into the outer contour of the sliding plate of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11.

[0179] Furthermore, the connection relationships between the self-cleaning device 3 and various components and parts include the connection between the self-cleaning device 3 and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, the self-cleaning device 3 and the material cart 5, the self-cleaning device 3 and the automatic covering device 2, and the self-cleaning device 3 and the storage cabinet body 4; the specific description is as follows:

[0180] The connection between the self-cleaning device 3 and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 is that the base of the drive module 33 is rigidly connected to the front stage of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11; the blowing device 31 extends and retracts with the drive module 33, and under the guidance of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, it realizes the movement along the length of the cabinet and the distance control along the vertical direction. In terms of fixing method and assembly, the self-cleaning device 3 and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 adopt a fixing structure of rigid reference surface contact and pin clamping, that is, the upper surface of the drive module 33 is machined with reference surface A, which is precisely contacted with the lower surface reference surface B of the first stage (head) of the sliding plate mechanism; the left and right sides of the drive module 33 are provided with positioning pin holes and cylindrical pins, and are supplemented with fastening bolts to achieve a shear-bending composite connection of "pin positioning and bolt clamping"; after assembly, the parallelism of reference surface A∥reference surface B should be ≤0.20 mm to ensure the geometric consistency of the working surface of the self-cleaning device 3 relative to the bottom of the cabinet; the static stiffness of the drive module 33 is ≥10 N / μm to limit the deformation caused by sweeping reaction force and inertial load. From the perspective of load bearing and force transmission path, the load of the self-cleaning device 3 forms a closed force loop according to "drive module 33 → head of multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 → guide rail 211 of multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 → material cart 5 frame". The guide rail 211 of multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 bears the lateral load and bending moment caused by the movement along the length of the cabinet. The shell of the self-cleaning device 3 only bears its own weight and local additional load, avoiding the direct application of lateral force and bending moment to the shell of the self-cleaning device 3 from the source, so as to improve the structural reliability and service life. The connection interfaces of the self-cleaning device 3 are all treated with anti-loosening and anti-corrosion measures. Fasteners are assembled according to the tightening torque and the torque is checked. After assembly, the working gap between the self-cleaning device 3 and the bottom of the cabinet is measured at no less than three points (both ends and the middle) along the length of the working surface of the self-cleaning device 3 (i.e. the bottom surface of the blowing device 31) using feeler gauges or gap gauges. The absolute value of the deviation of each measuring point from the nominal gap does not exceed ±3 mm (or the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​does not exceed 6 mm) to be judged as qualified.

[0181] During operation, the self-cleaning device 3 moves linearly along the cabinet length (X-direction) entirely guided by the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 and driven by the material cart 5. The self-cleaning device 3 does not provide additional X-direction guidance; it only moves synchronously back and forth with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. Vertical (Z-direction) positioning is achieved by the extension and retraction of the drive module 33, maintaining a 40–80 mm working gap between the device's working surface and the cabinet bottom. Its position is controlled in a closed loop by a built-in stroke encoder or limit device. To avoid mechanical interference at the ends, mechanical soft limit blocks are arranged at the ends of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. Hard limit switches and travel switches are installed at both ends of the travel of the drive module 33. If any end signal is missing, the output is locked and further movement is prohibited. The follower air pipe and cable are fixed to the side edge of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 via a drag chain, with the minimum bending radius of the drag chain being ≥ 10 times the outer diameter. A traction load-reducing clamp is installed at the interface where the hose enters the self-cleaning device to suppress joint fatigue and loosening caused by reciprocating movement.

[0182] The self-cleaning device 3 is connected to the material cart 5 in such a way that during self-cleaning, the material cart 5 drives the multi-stage sliding mechanism 11 to move at a low and uniform speed along the length of the cabinet, achieving a "broom-like" full-width coverage; when not cleaning, it can return to a safe parking position with the material cart 5. Firstly, the self-cleaning device 3 is mechanically coupled to the material cart 5 indirectly through the multi-stage sliding mechanism 11. That is, the material cart 5 provides traction and positioning along the length of the cabinet (X-direction), the multi-stage sliding mechanism 11 provides linear guidance, and the self-cleaning device 3 moves synchronously back and forth with the multi-stage sliding mechanism 11 without additionally providing X-direction guidance. When the cleaning operation is initiated, after confirming that there is no tobacco material covering the storage cabinet 4 and that the automatic covering device 2 is in a safe position, the material cart 5 outputs a cleaning permission command, driving the self-cleaning device 3 to move along the cabinet. The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 reaches the starting position; then the vertical positioning mechanism of the self-cleaning device 3 is lowered to the set working gap and the air supply is turned on to form a bottom-mounted directional airflow; during the operation, the material cart 5 pulls the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 at a low speed and uniform speed along the length of the cabinet, with an acceleration of no more than 0.20m / s2, in order to suppress dust re-rolling; the path coverage can be set according to the length L of the storage cabinet to set a single or reciprocating sweeping strategy, and at the end, the tail end arrival detection device determines "spraying in place" and triggers the subsequent air shut-off, vertical retraction and path reversal control sequence. Secondly, in the non-cleaning state, the material cart 5 returns the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to the safe parking position near the cabinet head. The vertical positioning mechanism of the self-cleaning device 3 retracts into the outer contour of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. The air supply circuit is closed and depressurized through the silencer channel. The control system is placed in the idle state, releasing the interlocking restrictions on the covering and material functions. If any abnormality occurs during operation, such as the vehicle speed being inconsistent with the setting, the air supply pressure being lower than the threshold, or the tail end arrival detection timeout, the material cart 5 should immediately decelerate and stop. The self-cleaning device 3 simultaneously executes the priority protection actions of shutting off the air and vertical retraction, and issues an alarm pending manual reset. Through the "parking-retraction-interlocking" protection mechanism, interference and malfunction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 can be avoided, ensuring the safe and reliable collaborative operation of the self-cleaning device 3 and the material cart 5 throughout their entire life cycle.

[0183] The connection between the self-cleaning device 3 and the automatic covering device 2 is a control interlock relationship. That is, when the automatic covering device 2 is in "unconfirmed" or "unconfirmed", the extension and retraction and air supply of the self-cleaning device 3 are not allowed to operate to prevent mechanical interference. Firstly, the self-cleaning device 3 and the automatic covering device 2 are electrically and logically interlocked. The state variable of the automatic covering device 2 is used as a prerequisite for allowing cleaning. That is, the locking position detection module 23 and the locking drive module 26 jointly provide feedback. Only when the retraction and locking have been confirmed and the device is in a safe position can the PLC set the self-cleaning permission signal and allow the vertical distance fixing mechanism of the self-cleaning device 3 to be lowered and the air supply circuit to be ventilated. When the device is in either the retraction / extension transition or the unfolding / locking state, the pneumatic command and vertical extension command of the self-cleaning device 3 are forcibly locked to prevent interference with the mechanism. The interlock also has a reverse shielding function. That is, when the self-cleaning device 3 is in the working occupied state or the nozzle is in the lowered state, the movement command of the material covering belt drive module 22 is shielded, prohibiting the material covering belt assembly 21 from any displacement during the cleaning process. Therefore, the interlocking logic between the self-cleaning device 3 and the automatic covering device 2 ensures that the cleaning-covering actions are time-independent and the working domains are isolated, guaranteeing that the two mechanisms do not conflict in space or time. Secondly, after the structural design and assembly are in place, a minimum safe distance of not less than 50 mm should be maintained between the lowest outer contour of the automatic covering device 2 and the working limit position of the self-cleaning device 3. This distance is included in the PLC parameter library as a hard indicator for installation acceptance and operation monitoring. Exceeding the limit will trigger a shutdown and alarm. For the front end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 and the area that may be close to the material shielding belt assembly 21, passive anti-collision rollers, guard plates, and soft limit blocks are set. The center of the rollers is higher than the working surface of the self-cleaning device 3 and forms a rolling contact surface with the cabinet wall to absorb occasional displacement and cumulative assembly errors. The soft limit uses elastic materials or spring pre-tensioning structures to avoid secondary damage caused by rigid collisions. All protective components must have adjustable mounting slots for easy alignment and re-inspection. Thirdly, when the covering device 2 malfunctions (sensor jitter or false triggering) while the self-cleaning device 3 is in the lowered state, the system executes a safety sequence with first-priority priority: immediately apply the command "cut off air supply → vertical retraction → continue movement of covering device 2" to lock until manually released; if interlock signal jitter, arrival signal timeout, or real-time safety distance calculation is lower than the threshold is detected during the transition state, the PLC should synchronously decelerate and stop the machine while maintaining the current locked state, and record key data such as timestamp, displacement, pressure, and current for fault tracing; and before resuming operation, manual reset and interlock status verification are required before cleaning or covering commands can be issued again. Therefore, the coordination method of "control interlock - safety distance - abnormal recovery" ensures that the self-cleaning device 3 and the automatic covering device 2 achieve verifiable intrinsic safety and high reliability coordination under all operating conditions.

[0184] The connection relationship between the self-cleaning device 3 and the cabinet body 4 is that the blow-in place detection module 32 is fixed at the tail end of the cabinet body 4, serving as an independent reference for the in-place and retraction in-place of the tail end of the cabinet body 4. The self-cleaning device 3 establishes an absolute reference system with the cabinet body as the only reference relative to the cabinet body 4, that is, the blow-in place detection device 32 is fixedly installed on the cabinet body 4 through a special support on the upper edge or side wall of the tail end, and does not move with any movement of the multi-stage slide mechanism 11, the material cart 5 or the vertical drive base 33 of the self-cleaning device. Thus, the determination of "in-place / retraction in-place at the tail end" is based on the geometric reference of the cabinet body 4, and the measurement and triggering results are not affected by relative error sources such as cumulative errors of the guide rail, traction slip, or thermal expansion and contraction, providing a stable and traceable stroke end point and zero return reference for the self-cleaning device 3. First, in the installation stage, with the inner surface of the cabinet bottom as the reference, adjust the installation reference of the blow-in place detection module 32 to a parallelism ≤ 0.30 mm with it, and make the sensor optical axis and the induction surface coaxial with the front target of the self-cleaning device 3; the blow-in place detection module 32 is fixed to a scale-adjustable support (adjustment stroke ±5 mm) and equipped with a dust-proof cover, and the stiffness of the support should ensure that the displacement of the sensor working surface under vibration conditions ≤ 0.2 mm; the electrical connection uses a shielded cable to be grounded at a single point on the cabinet body, and the cable is fixed to the cabinet body 4 through a bending-resistant clamp; a mechanical protection window or guard plate is set in the sensor area, and the minimum safety distance parameter of the working limit position of the self-cleaning device 3 is parameterized and written into the PLC for out-of-bounds monitoring. Second, in the calibration stage, record the zero reference in sequence when the drive base 33 is fully retracted and the multi-stage slide mechanism 11 returns to the mechanical zero position; push the multi-stage slide mechanism 11 to the tail end at a low speed, and take the average value of multiple round trips of the stable trigger of the blow-in place detection module 32 at the tail end reference; lower the drive base 33 to the preset distance, set the operation gap setting value and save it as the Z-direction gap reference, and at the same time check the consistency of the operation gap at three points along the cabinet width, and judge it as qualified if the range ≤ 6 mm or the deviation from the nominal value ≤ ±3 mm. Third, in the operation stage, conduct an online cross-check of the X-direction position quantity, the z-direction position quantity and the trigger of the blow-in place detection module 32 based on the cabinet body reference; if any quantity exceeds the tolerance or the trigger times out, execute the protection sequence (cut off the air supply, retract the drive base 33, stop the multi-stage slide mechanism 11 and alarm), and synchronously record data such as displacement, pressure, and current; it can only resume operation after manual reset and the restoration of the independent reference state.

[0185] Furthermore, in non-clean (static) working conditions, the self-cleaning device 3 operates as follows: When the self-cleaning device 3 is in a static engagement state, the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 first retracts to the mechanical zero position, and the drive base 33 retracts accordingly, causing the self-cleaning device 3 to return to a parking position within the outer contour of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. The lowest outer surface of the blowing device 31 is higher than the current material surface and maintains a safe gap with the automatic covering device 2. The air supply solenoid valve is closed, and the residual air in the pipeline is orderly discharged to atmospheric pressure through the silencer to avoid residual thrust and secondary dust. The programmable controller PLC forms a double interlock with the "retracted to position" signal of the blowing position detection module 32 and the electrical confirmation of the end limit switch of the drive base 33, which is a necessary condition for releasing the restraint on the movement of the covering mechanism and the material. If either confirmation is missing or abnormal, the system maintains the parking position and prohibits the automatic covering device 2 and the material cart 5 from entering the movement state, thereby ensuring no interference between the mechanisms and static safety.

[0186] Furthermore, in the cleaning (movement) mode, the self-cleaning device 3 operates as follows: When the self-cleaning device 3 enters the motion coordination state, the PLC first confirms that there is no covered material inside the storage cabinet 4 and that the automatic covering device 2 is in a locked safe position. Then, it instructs the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to extend to a predetermined height; the drive module 33 extends downward to position the self-cleaning device 3 body within a working gap of 40-80 mm from the bottom of the cabinet; after the air supply circuit is stabilized, the solenoid valve is opened to form a bottom-hugging directional airflow, and the material cart 5 moves at a speed of 0.10-0.30 mm. The low-speed uniform traction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 at m / s enables the self-cleaning device 5 to complete full-width sweeping and blowing along the length of the storage tank from the head to the tail. When it reaches the tail end, the "blow-in position" detection module 32 determines that the "blow-in position" has been reached. The control logic then sequentially executes the air shut-off, the retraction of the drive module 33, and the retraction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, resetting the device to the parking position. If any abnormality occurs during operation, such as timeout, lower pressure limit, or push rod overload, the system immediately interrupts the air supply and executes the priority retraction strategy to ensure the controllability of the movement process and the safety of the equipment.

[0187] Storage cabinet body 4

[0188] The storage tank 4 is an open-top, box-type load-bearing structure arranged along its length, consisting of a bottom plate on the inner surface of the bottom, left and right side plates, a head plate, a tail plate, a top flange and circumferential reinforcing ribs, and a column frame. The tail end of the storage tank 4 has an integrally formed discharge port and reinforcing ring. Load-bearing beams and guide seats are provided on both sides of the top opening of the storage tank 4 to support the material cart 5's travel rail. The side walls of the storage tank 4 have pre-installed drive, locking, and sensor mounting plates. The inner cavity of the storage tank 4 is equipped with flow guides, limiting strips, and maintenance openings. The overall shape of the storage tank 4 is a cuboid or trough-shaped box with a fully open top. The inner surface of the bottom of the storage tank 4 has a slight slope, preferably 1.5° to 3.0°, facing the tail end discharge port. The inner corners of the storage tank 4 are rounded (R≥10 mm) to prevent material retention. The outer corners of the storage tank 4 are blunted and equipped with corner protectors. The storage cabinet 4 is fixed to the foundation or equipment frame and serves as the absolute geometric and load-bearing reference for the multi-functional material storage system. The top elevation of the storage cabinet 4 is consistent with the elevation of the guide rail of the material cart 5. The length direction is X (head end → tail end), the width is Y, and the height is Z.

[0189] The connection and spatial positional changes of the storage cabinet 4 with other components are described in detail below.

[0190] The connection between the storage cabinet body 4 and the material cart 5 is that the load-bearing beams and guide seats on both sides of the top opening of the storage cabinet body 4 are used to install the material cart 5's traveling rail or slide, and are equipped with end mechanical limit and anti-detachment devices; the parallelism of the rail relative to the bottom baseline of the cabinet is ≤0.30mm.

[0191] The connection between the storage cabinet body 4 and the automatic covering device 2 is that the side wall and upper edge of the storage cabinet body 4 are arranged with the mounting surface of the material covering belt drive module 22, the unfolding locking device 24, the retraction locking device 25 and the guide groove; and the upper edge flange serves as the overlapping / sealing edge of the material covering belt assembly 21, and is provided with mounting holes and positioning pin holes to ensure alignment.

[0192] The connection between the storage cabinet 4 and the variable height material handling device 1 is such that the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 of the variable height material handling device 1 is installed on the material cart 5 and is not directly fixed to the storage cabinet 4. The storage cabinet 4 provides a space envelope for the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to extend into the work area, and leaves a safe profile above the head end for the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to retract. The side wall of the storage cabinet 4 is provided with a mounting surface for the material position detection module 12 and a wiring channel.

[0193] The connection between the storage tank body 4 and the self-cleaning device 3 is such that the self-cleaning device 3 moves with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, and the fixed connection between the storage tank body 4 and the self-cleaning device 3 is limited to the jetting position detection module 32. The jetting position detection module 32 is fixed to the tail end side wall of the storage tank body 4; the bottom of the tank slopes towards the tail end, which facilitates the collection of residual material by the sweeping airflow of the self-cleaning device 3 to the discharge port; wear-resistant guide strips can be added to a portion of the bottom plate of the storage tank body 4 to reduce friction.

[0194] Furthermore, in a static working condition, the storage cabinet 4 operates as follows: the storage cabinet 4 itself does not participate in movement, but bears the static load of the material and serves as the base for each upper component; it maintains the integrity of the top sealing edge and the rigidity and stability of the locking seat, and provides stable references for each installed sensor to the PLC, so that the material, covering, and cleaning interlocking chains are in a reliable standby state. The storage tank 4 is in a completely static state, bearing only the weight of the bulk material and the pressure from the particles, and serving as the geometric and load-bearing base for the upper components (material shielding belt drive module 22, unfolding locking device 24, retracting locking device 25, traveling rail, and sensors). The top flange and sealing strip of the storage tank 4 are continuously pressed together, and the mounting seats corresponding to the retracting and unfolding locking remain rigid and undeformed, ensuring long-term stability of the sealing surface pressure. The slight slope on the inner surface of the bottom of the storage tank 4 does not cause accumulation or slippage when stationary, but provides potential flow conditions for subsequent unloading. The side walls, end plates, and reinforcing ribs of the storage tank 4 form a spatial frame, with controlled full-load deflection. The bottom plate is ≤B / 600, the side plates are ≤L / 500, and the welds and connecting bolts are in the elastic working zone. Furthermore, sensors such as the material position detection module 12 and the spray position detection module 32 are fixed on the reserved mounting plate, and output position / material level signals with low zero drift and high repeatability with the cabinet as the absolute reference. The PLC maintains the material, cover, and cleaning interlock chains in a standby state that can be released but is not activated. The foundation anchoring and columns ensure the cabinet's resistance to temperature and humidity changes and environmental vibrations. The relative geometric relationship between the top and side walking rails and the bottom baseline of the cabinet is kept within the assembly tolerance (parallelism ≤ 0.30 mm) to prevent the amplification of the linkage mechanism error caused by shape and position drift.

[0195] Furthermore, in motion, the storage cabinet 4 specifically operates as follows: during the movement of the material cart 5, the deployment and retraction of the automatic covering device 2, and the follow-up movement of the self-cleaning device 3, the storage cabinet 4 provides guidance, sealing, load-bearing, and vibration-resistant support; the slope of the bottom plate and the rounded inner corners of the storage cabinet 4 ensure that the tobacco material moves smoothly towards the tail end under the action of gravity and sweeping airflow; the side wall mounting plate of the storage cabinet 4 bears the working force of the covering belt drive module 22, the deployment locking device 24, and the retraction locking device 25 and closes the load to the cabinet frame. Specifically, when the material cart 5 travels along the X direction, the automatic covering device 2 extends and retracts, and the self-cleaning device 3 operates accordingly, the storage tank 4 simultaneously undertakes guiding, sealing, load-bearing, and vibration-resistant functions: the top load-bearing beam or guide seat of the storage tank 4 provides rigid support for the material cart 5's travel rail and closes the wheel pressure and braking impact; the side wall mounting plate of the storage tank 4 transmits the driving reaction force of the material covering belt drive module 22, the clamping force of the unfolding locking device 24 and the retracting locking device 25, and the lateral force of the guide groove to the frame, so that the load forms a closed path through "mounting plate → reinforcing rib, column → base, foundation" without being excessively applied to the thin-walled panel. Under the combined action of gravity and the sweeping dynamic pressure generated by 3, the slight slope of the bottom of the storage tank 4 and the rounded inner corners (R≥10 mm) cause the residual tobacco material to migrate directionally along the bottom plate towards the tail end discharge port, and the locally applied UHMWPE and PTFE guide strips reduce friction and inhibit adhesion. The cabinet of the storage tank 4 filters out the dynamic loads caused by movement, conveyor belt winding, and jet blowing through its overall rigidity and damping, ensuring that the vibration displacement at the control interface (locking seat, sensor support) does not exceed 0.2 mm, thus guaranteeing reliable detection and locking. During operation, the cabinet of the storage tank 4 still provides a stable reference for each sensor and interlock; once the minimum safe distance calculated in real time falls below the threshold or the arrival signal times out, the PLC executes air shut-off, retraction, and shutdown according to the protection logic. The cabinet of the storage tank 4 relies on its structural integrity to withstand transient loads and maintain the continuity of the current covering, locking, and sealing.

[0196] The engineering mechanism and design points of the storage tank body 4 are as follows: The storage tank body 4 is not only the structural load-bearing and geometric reference of the whole machine, but also achieves the combined guidance of gravity and airflow through "micro-slope + low friction lining" to ensure smooth loading / unloading; when stationary, it relies on "frame + reinforcing ribs" to ensure rigidity and shape and maintain the top opening sealing pre-pressure; at the edge of the shielding strip, the transition of the material cart and the direction change of the spray, "rounded corners, chamfered surfaces + roller guides" are used to achieve smooth turning and reduce stress concentration; at the same time, the stress and ventilation design is carried out according to the particle side pressure, locking surface pressure and aerodynamic disturbance pressure, including side pressure verification, sealing surface pressure range and pressure relief, and ventilation measures to ensure load-bearing, safety and sealing performance.

[0197] Material cart 5

[0198] The material cart 5 is a top-mounted linear walking platform, consisting of a vehicle frame, a walking mechanism (drive wheel set + driven wheel set structure, or slider + linear guide rail structure), a walking drive unit (servo motor + reducer or direct drive motor), a brake or holding brake, a position detection system (absolute encoder / limit switch), an energy and pipeline system (cable drag chain, air source distribution manifold, single-point grounding), an installation interface (mounting seat for multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, and shielding traction hook seat), a protective cover, and buffer stops. The material cart 5 is a top-mounted linear walking platform type trolley, and the vehicle frame adopts a "welded box beam + cross brace structure". The top and bottom of the material cart 5 are each provided with a precision-machined mounting base surface, that is, the upper base surface and the lower base surface are used for the installation of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 and the shielding traction hook, respectively. The walking mechanism of the material cart 5 is selected based on the site conditions, using either a "steel wheel + rail" or "slider + linear guide rail" configuration. The drive wheel set and driven wheel set (or linear guide rail slider) are arranged in pairs. The drive side is equipped with a servo motor + reducer (or direct drive) and electromagnetic brake. Torque is output to the drive wheel axle via a coupling and synchronous belt. The position detection of the material cart 5 uses an "absolute encoder (walking shaft) + two-end position switches (origin / limit position)"; a pull-rope encoder is added for redundant measurement if necessary. The energy and pipeline system of the material cart 5 consists of a cable drag chain, an air source distribution manifold, and a single-point grounding system. The drag chain is arranged along the side edge of the cart body, with a minimum bending radius ≥ 10 times the cable outer diameter. The air source is distributed via a quick-connect connector to the self-cleaning device 3 and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 using an air circuit. The front and rear ends of the material cart 5 are covered with protective covers, and the ends are equipped with buffer stops and anti-loosening mechanisms. All fasteners at critical stress points are made of 10.9 grade or A270 steel and equipped with anti-loosening measures.

[0199] The material cart 5 is a low-profile, elongated platform-type cart. The front end is the discharge end, with wheels or sliders arranged below. The top / bottom features mounting surfaces and a traction seat for the shielding mechanism. It has a low overall height and a centrally located center of gravity. The material cart 5 is a low-profile, elongated platform, with its overall height controlled to be as low as possible without interfering with the shielding and cleaning work area, thus achieving a low center of gravity and minimal pitch inertia. The front end is defined as the discharge end, facilitating the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11's access to the cabinet for operation. Wheels or guide rail sliders are arranged longitudinally below the material cart 5, with the wheel track or slider spacing determined based on the cabinet's track gauge and load-bearing capacity. The top (or bottom) features a mounting surface for the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, which is precision-milled and has positioning holes and threaded holes to achieve a rigid connection using "pin positioning + bolt clamping." The traction shielding hook is located on the upper surface of the cart at the discharge end, using a "fork lug + cylindrical pin" or "dovetail slider + quick-release pin" configuration. The hook has ±10 mm elongated holes for assembly alignment and thermal expansion compensation. The material cart 5 has inspection openings and protective edges on both sides of its body, with rounded outer corners R≥1.0 to avoid scratching the shielding strip and cables.

[0200] The material cart 5 is installed on the traveling rails / slides on the supporting beams on both sides of the top opening of the storage cabinet 4, and moves in a straight reciprocating motion along the length of the cabinet (X direction); it remains parallel and aligned with the cabinet reference. The material cart 5 is installed on the traveling rails / slides on the supporting beams on both sides of the top opening of the storage cabinet 4, and moves in a straight reciprocating motion along the length of the cabinet (X direction). The parallelism of the rail surface relative to the "cabinet bottom inner surface reference line" is ≤0.30 mm, and the consistency of the rail spacing on both sides is ≤±2 mm. The clearance between the cart and the rail (or the slider and the guide rail) is adjusted according to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure guiding rigidity and low rolling resistance. After the initial assembly of the material cart 5, geometric alignment is performed with the rail reference, i.e., the coincidence of the cart centerline and the cabinet centerline is ≤±1.0 mm, and the straightness of movement is verified by an encoder or laser ruler. Mechanical stops and buffer elements are installed at the ends of the material cart 5, with a stop clearance of 0.5~1.0 mm; the limit switch is placed ≥5 mm before the stop to form a double electromechanical limit. During operation, the servo closed loop outputs a trapezoidal / S-curve speed according to the working conditions, which is interlocked and coordinated with the extension and retraction of the multi-stage slide mechanism 11 and the winding and unwinding of the material shielding belt drive module 22 according to the PLC timing sequence. When parking, the brake is closed, and the vehicle body stops at the safe parking position at the cabinet head end, maintaining the parallel and centering relationship with the cabinet reference unchanged, so as to ensure the repeatability accuracy and non-interference of subsequent material handling, covering and cleaning actions.

[0201] Furthermore, the multifunctional material storage system of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, includes a variable height material device 1 whose main components include a multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, a material position detection module 12, and a drive module 13; the following is a detailed description of each component:

[0202] Advanced Skateboarding Organization 11

[0203] The multi-level skateboard mechanism 11 is composed of a multi-layer skateboard structure, which consists of three layers. Each layer operates independently but is interconnected as a whole. Different height positions can be adjusted by extension and retraction. Each layer has independent support and sliding elements to ensure smooth movement and precise positioning of the skateboard. It can be flexibly adjusted according to the actual warehouse height requirements.

[0204] The multi-level sliding plate mechanism 11 has an overall shape that is slender and flat, with three layers of sliding plates arranged in parallel and horizontally. Each layer of sliding plate is stacked in parallel, which can achieve vertical extension or retraction. When the height of the warehouse changes, the distance of the sliding plate extension or retraction can be automatically adjusted.

[0205] The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 is located below the bottom of the material cart 5, near the discharge end. It can move and be positioned with the material cart 5. The position design takes into account the convenience of material unloading and laying. The height can be directly adjusted to reduce the difficulty of operation and improve the work efficiency.

[0206] The connection and spatial position change relationship of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 is as follows: The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 is connected to the drive system through the drive module 13. The drive module provides the power source and can automatically adjust its extension and retraction according to the changes in the internal height of the warehouse detected by the warehouse position detection module 12. When the warehouse position detection module 12 senses a change in the height of the materials inside the storage cabinet 4, it transmits the position information to the drive module 13, which then controls the extension and retraction of the sliding plate mechanism to adjust the material height to precisely meet the actual needs inside the warehouse. When the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 extends and retracts, it will adjust its vertical position to adapt to different walkway height requirements.

[0207] The multi-stage sliding mechanism 11 is integrated with other components as follows: the multi-stage sliding mechanism 11 is closely integrated with the material cart 5 to form the core system of material handling. The material cart provides the basic platform for the operation and movement of the mechanism. The warehouse position detection module 12 provides real-time material height information to the drive module 13 to control the automatic height adjustment of the multi-stage sliding mechanism, so as to accurately control the material unloading position and effectively avoid the material falling or excessive wear in the storage cabinet. The operation of the advanced sliding mechanism 11 is coordinated with the automatic covering device 2 above, and through appropriate position adjustment and sliding extension, it effectively realizes accurate and dust-free material delivery operations.

[0208] The advanced sliding plate mechanism 11 automatically adjusts the material height to ensure uniform and stable material delivery to designated bins, reducing loss and dust. It works in conjunction with the drive and detection modules to achieve intelligent control. The multi-level sliding plate mechanism 11 features height adjustment, using the extension and retraction of multiple sliding plates to accommodate different material stacking heights within the storage tank 4. This ensures precise material delivery, prevents materials from falling freely from heights, and reduces crushing and loss. Furthermore, the advanced sliding plate mechanism 11 provides stable material transport. During material conveying, it dynamically adjusts the outlet height based on the stacking height within the warehouse, ensuring a smooth material flow and effectively preventing significant breakage or uneven accumulation due to excessive height differences.

[0209] The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 can coordinate detection and control functions, receiving height information transmitted from the storage tank position detection module 12, and controlled by the drive module 13 to extend and retract, thereby cooperating with the control system to automatically complete height adjustment and realize intelligent material handling. The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 can reduce losses and dust in the warehouse. By automatically adjusting the material height, it reduces material drop and collision breakage, thereby reducing dust generation and improving the environmental protection and safety of warehouse operations. The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 can adapt to multiple application scenarios and can be used in storage tanks of different sizes and hierarchical structures, showing good adaptability to ever-changing material stacking requirements.

[0210] Material position detection module 12

[0211] The material position detection module 12 employs sensors or laser equipment to detect the height of the storage location. It includes a sensing unit, a signal processing unit, and a mounting bracket and protective cover. The sensing unit uses a laser rangefinder or ultrasonic sensor to accurately measure the stacking height of materials within the storage container. The signal processing unit converts the sensing signal into digital height data and communicates with the drive module 13 via the control system. The mounting bracket and protective cover support the sensor and protect the equipment from dust and impact, making it suitable for warehouse environments.

[0212] The material position detection module 12 supports continuous distance measurement and real-time feedback to enable dynamic height monitoring during the material process. It also includes anti-interference devices to avoid misjudgments caused by material dust or light reflection.

[0213] The material position detection module 12 is elongated or slender rectangular in shape, which facilitates installation on the side of the equipment, saves space, and is easy to maintain. The size of the material position detection module 12 is adjusted according to the height of the storage tank and the sensing distance. The length must be able to cover the entire height range of the warehouse or detect at least multiple key height points. The material position detection module 12 is installed and fixed on the side of the storage tank 4, close to the moving path of the material cart 5. The detection area faces the internal stacking space of the storage tank to ensure complete measurement of the stacking height inside the storage tank. At the same time, the distance from the discharge end must avoid the direct impact area of ​​the material outlet to prevent dust or material from blocking the laser or sensing signal.

[0214] The connection and information interaction signal process of the material position detection module 12 is as follows: the position information detected by the inventory position detection module 12 is transmitted to the drive module 13. The drive module 13 adjusts the extension and retraction state of the multi-level sliding plate mechanism according to the position information; then, the stacking height inside the storage tank is measured in real time, and after generating a digital signal, it is transmitted to the drive module 13 through wired or wireless means; the drive module 13 calculates the required extension and retraction length of the sliding plate according to the height data, and drives the multi-level sliding plate mechanism 11 to perform the action.

[0215] The control operation process of the material position detection module 12 is as follows: when the height exceeds the set value, the material outlet is controlled to rise, which can shorten the extension length of the slide plate; when the height is lower than the set value, the material outlet is controlled to fall, which can lengthen the extension length of the slide plate.

[0216] The spatial position change of the material position detection module 12 and the coordination of each component are as follows: the material position detection module 12 and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 form a closed-loop control to ensure high accuracy during the material handling process. The material position detection module 12 is linked with the material cart (5). As the material cart moves along the storage tank, the detection module continuously monitors and updates the height information. During operation, the detection module in the material position detection module 12 does not move, but it must be shock-resistant and dust-resistant to ensure signal stability.

[0217] Driver Module 13

[0218] The drive module 13 is the core power component of the entire variable height material system. It is responsible for driving the extension and retraction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 and forming a closed-loop control with the detection module in the material position detection module 12 to realize automatic height adjustment of the material outlet, ensuring that the material process is accurate, safe and efficient.

[0219] The drive module 13 consists of a servo motor or stepper motor, a coupling, a reducer, transmission components, a controller unit, and a fixed bracket and protective cover. The servo motor or stepper motor serves as the main power source, providing power output and precisely controlling the rotation angle, torque, and speed. The coupling is the transmission mechanism that transmits the rotational motion of the motor output shaft to the multi-layer sliding plate mechanism 11, connecting the motor and the transmission device to ensure the stability and accuracy of power transmission. The reducer lowers the motor speed and increases the torque, suitable for situations where the sliding plate needs to carry heavy loads. The transmission components include gear sets, lead screw mechanisms, or chain mechanisms, forming a "lead screw + slider or gear + chain" structure to achieve telescopic linear motion. The cooperation of the reducer and transmission components converts and amplifies the motor power, driving the telescopic movement of the multi-layer sliding plate mechanism. The controller unit receives height data from the warehouse position detection module 12 and adjusts the output signal to control the motor's operation, controlling the motor's action based on warehouse height sensing information. The fixed bracket and protective cover support and protect the motor and coupling, preventing dust and external interference.

[0220] The drive module 13 is rectangular in shape and includes a motor body, coupling, reducer and fixed base. The main body of the drive module 13 is relatively short and moderate in width. The base is designed as a rectangular platform to be fixed under the material cart 5.

[0221] The drive module 13 is installed at the center below the material cart 5, coaxial or parallel to the multi-layer sliding plate mechanism 11; the relative position of the drive module 13 and the storage cabinet 4 is located near the discharge end of the material cart, so as to ensure that when the drive sliding plate extends and retracts, the height of the material outlet can accurately cover the surface of the material in the warehouse.

[0222] The drive module 13 is connected to other components as follows: the drive module 13 and the multi-layer skateboard mechanism 11 are connected via a coupling and a lead screw or chain drive, converting the motor rotation into the linear extension and retraction of the skateboard. The drive module 13 and the control system perform closed-loop control by receiving signals from the height detection module 12.

[0223] The driving module 13 works in conjunction with other components as follows: The driving module 13 operates in conjunction with the warehouse position detection module 12, enabling real-time acquisition of material height data within the warehouse and transmitting it to the driving module control unit as a basis for height adjustment; the driving module 13 operates in conjunction with the multi-layer sliding plate mechanism 11, driving it to precisely extend and retract, ensuring that the outlet height is adjusted at any time during material handling to avoid excessive drop; the driving module 13 is fixed to the bottom structure of the material cart 5, moving along the storage cabinet with the material cart to achieve material handling at different locations; the driving module 13 operates synchronously with the automatic covering device 12, preventing dust from escaping during material handling and improving safety.

[0224] Furthermore, the multifunctional material storage system of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, includes an automatic covering device 2 whose main components include a covering belt assembly 21, a covering belt drive module 22, a locking position detection module 23, an unfolding locking device 24, a retracting locking device 25, and a locking drive module 26; the following is a detailed description of each component:

[0225] Material shielding tape assembly 21

[0226] The structure of the cover belt assembly 21 consists of guide wheels 211, cover curtain 212, and support shaft 213. The guide wheels 211 are installed at both ends of the support shaft 213. The support shaft 213 passes through the cover curtain 212. The guide wheels 211 drive the support shaft 213 to move, thereby driving the cover curtain 212 to extend and retract.

[0227] The overall shape of the material shielding strip assembly 21 is a multi-layered folded or unfolded strip structure, arranged laterally along the width of the storage cabinet 4. When unfolded, the material shielding strip assembly 21 forms a planar strip covering the top opening of the storage cabinet; when retracted, it is arranged in multiple folds, resulting in a compact structure. The material shielding strip assembly 21 mainly consists of multiple support shafts 213 that span the width of the cover curtain 212, with guide wheels 211 at both ends of each support shaft. Each support shaft 213 is fixed to the cover curtain 212 through appropriate connection methods (such as sewing, riveting, or clamping), forming an integrated structural unit of "guide wheels, support shafts, and cover curtain". The three units, guide wheels 211, support shafts 213, and cover curtain 212, are arranged parallel and spaced apart in the width direction, forming a multi-layered linkage structure that supports and drives the cover curtain 212 to extend and retract synchronously.

[0228] The spatial position of the shielding belt assembly 21 is such that it is horizontally positioned above the top opening of the storage tank 4. When the cover curtain 212 of the shielding belt assembly 21 is unfolded along its width, it can cover the entire upper opening of the storage tank 4, achieving full coverage of the tobacco material. In the retracted state, the shielding belt assembly 21 is close to one side of the storage tank 4 or in a dedicated storage slot, without affecting the loading and unloading of the storage material. Each support shaft 213 of the shielding belt assembly 21 is arranged parallel to the width direction of the opening of the storage tank 4. Guide wheels 211 are located at both ends of the support shafts 213, respectively close to the guide rails on the left and right sides of the opening of the storage tank 4, to achieve low-friction sliding of the assembly. Multiple support shafts 213 pass through and are fixedly connected to the cover curtain 212. The cover curtain is made of flexible sheet material and can smoothly and synchronously unfold and retract above the opening of the storage tank 4 with the movement of the support shafts 213, thereby completing the automatic covering and opening of the storage material.

[0229] Guide wheel 211

[0230] The guide wheels 211 are disc-shaped or cylindrical and are installed at both ends of each support shaft 213 to facilitate the sliding of the material shielding belt assembly 21 along the guide rail. Each support shaft 213 has one guide wheel 211 at each end, with the actual number equal to 2 times the number of support shafts. The guide wheels can be fixed to the ends of the support shafts via interference fits, screws, pins, or snap rings to ensure they do not fall off during operation. Multiple guide wheels 211 are distributed along the width of the entire material shielding belt assembly 21 to ensure uniform force distribution and balanced sliding when the entire assembly moves. Each guide wheel has a central guide wheel shaft hole, the diameter of which is tightly fitted with the outer diameter of the support shaft 213, with a preferred tolerance of H7 / h6 to ensure flexible rotation without significant wobbling. The guide wheel shaft hole and the support shaft... Anti-loosening devices, such as limiting washers and spring clips, are added to the end fitting of 213 to improve operational reliability; the guide rail is provided with U-shaped or C-shaped metal channels, and the guide wheel 211 rolls inside the guide rail to bear and guide the lateral movement of the material shielding belt assembly 21; after the guide wheel 211 is installed, the support shaft 213 is positioned laterally inside or above the guide rail, forming a movable unit that slides along the guide rail; the outer edge of the guide wheel 211 is preferably chamfered or rounded to reduce wear on the guide rail during operation; under the drive of the drive module, the guide wheel 211 rolls along the guide rail, mainly bearing the tension in the sliding direction and the vertical load of the support shaft, ensuring smooth and stable unfolding / retraction.

[0231] The guide wheel 211 has a disc-shaped or columnar structure, preferably made of a polymer material (such as POM or nylon) with a diameter of 20-60 mm and a thickness of 5-15 mm or stainless steel, and its outer edge is smooth and wear-resistant; the outer diameter of the guide wheel 211 is slightly smaller than the inner width of the guide rail, and preferably has a gap of 0.5-2 mm to ensure smooth sliding without jamming.

[0232] Specifically, the main components of the material shielding belt assembly 21 include guide rollers 211, a cover curtain 212, and a support shaft 213.

[0233] Guide wheel 211

[0234] The guide wheels 211 are disc-shaped or cylindrical and are installed at both ends of each support shaft 213 to facilitate the sliding of the material shielding belt assembly 21 along the guide rail. Each support shaft 213 has one guide wheel 211 at each end, with the actual number equal to 2 times the number of support shafts. The guide wheels can be fixed to the ends of the support shafts via interference fits, screws, pins, or snap rings to ensure they do not fall off during operation. Multiple guide wheels 211 are distributed along the width of the entire material shielding belt assembly 21 to ensure uniform force distribution and balanced sliding when the entire assembly moves. Each guide wheel has a central guide wheel shaft hole, the diameter of which is tightly fitted with the outer diameter of the support shaft 213, with a preferred tolerance of H7 / h6 to ensure flexible rotation without significant wobbling. The guide wheel shaft hole and the support shaft... Anti-loosening devices, such as limiting washers and spring clips, are added to the end fitting of 213 to improve operational reliability; the guide rail is provided with U-shaped or C-shaped metal channels, and the guide wheel 211 rolls inside the guide rail to bear and guide the lateral movement of the material shielding belt assembly 21; after the guide wheel 211 is installed, the support shaft 213 is positioned laterally inside or above the guide rail, forming a movable unit that slides along the guide rail; the outer edge of the guide wheel 211 is preferably chamfered or rounded to reduce wear on the guide rail during operation; under the drive of the drive module, the guide wheel 211 rolls along the guide rail, mainly bearing the tension in the sliding direction and the vertical load of the support shaft, ensuring smooth and stable unfolding / retraction.

[0235] Curtain 212

[0236] The cover 212 is a rectangular or trapezoidal flexible sheet. The width of the cover 212 matches the opening width of the storage cabinet 4, and the length is sufficient to completely cover the entire opening area of ​​the storage cabinet.

[0237] Support shaft 213

[0238] The support shafts 213 are multiple straight rod-like structures, arranged parallel and evenly spaced along the width of the cover curtain 212. Each support shaft 213 has an equidistant gap, preferably 50–300 mm, to ensure that all parts of the cover curtain 212 receive sufficient support during expansion or contraction, preventing sagging, wrinkling, or uneven stress. Each support shaft 213 is securely connected to the cover curtain 212 by sewing, clamping, or riveting, allowing the support shafts 213 to jointly pull and guide the cover curtain 212 in synchronous movement. To prevent excessively large or small gaps between the support shafts 213 from affecting the flatness of the cover curtain, the spacing tolerance of each support shaft is preferably controlled within ±5 mm, thereby improving the overall operational stability and durability of the cover curtain assembly.

[0239] Furthermore, the connection relationship between the shielding tape assembly 21 and other components and parts is as follows.

[0240] The connection between the material shielding belt assembly 21 and the material shielding belt drive module 22 can be achieved in two ways: first, by applying torque (winding and unwinding) to the support shaft 213 through a coupling, synchronous belt, and chain to make the support shaft 213 rotate, thereby rolling up or lowering the cover curtain; second, by applying linear push and pull to both ends of the support shaft through a "linear module + pneumatic gripper" to form a point-driven surface unfolding. Firstly, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the driving method of the cover belt assembly 21 adopts a rotary drive structure. That is, the power is transmitted from the output end of the cover belt drive module 22 to the support shaft 213 of the cover belt assembly through a transmission device such as a coupling, synchronous belt or chain. Torque is applied to the support shaft 213 to achieve its rotation, thereby driving the cover curtain 212 wound on the support shaft to roll up or release. The principle of the roll-up drive method is similar to that of a roller blind mechanism. It has a compact structure, high transmission efficiency, and is suitable for cover curtain materials with long stroke and good flexibility. That is, by applying a continuous and uniform torque to the support shaft, the cover curtain can be smoothly unfolded and retracted, avoiding the rolling deviation and jamming caused by torque fluctuation or axial imbalance, thereby ensuring the reliability of the covering action and the stability of the system operation. Secondly, in another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the driving method of the material shielding tape assembly 21 adopts a linear push-pull structure. That is, the linear modules 221 set on both sides of the storage cabinet 4, together with the pneumatic claws 222, form a point drive mechanism to synchronously clamp the two ends of the support shaft 213 and apply a linear push-pull force. The driving method generates controllable linear displacement through the linear modules 221, and the pneumatic claws 222 clamp the ends of the support shaft 213, so that the entire material shielding tape assembly 21 moves linearly along the longitudinal direction of the storage cabinet 4 under the guidance of the guide rail, thereby driving the cover curtain 212 to unfold or retract. Furthermore, the driving method does not rely on the rotational movement of the support shaft 213, but achieves the overall planar unfolding of the material shielding surface by translating the axial points at both ends. It is particularly suitable for the cover curtain material to be semi-flexible or to a certain degree of rigidity, or for occasions where it is not convenient to store it by winding. It is beneficial to improve the stability of the material process and the controllability of the covering action.

[0241] The connection between the material shielding strip assembly 21 and the locking position detection module 23 is a position sensing and linkage relationship. Limit switches, magnetic induction sensors, and photoelectric sensors are installed at the head and tail ends of the storage tank to sense the position of the end of the cover curtain 212 or the end block of the support shaft 213, ensuring that the system can accurately sense the position during the covering or retraction action. To achieve position monitoring and action control of the material shielding strip assembly 21 during the unfolding and retraction process, locking position detection modules 23 are respectively installed at the head and tail ends of the storage tank body 4 to determine whether the material shielding strip assembly 21 has moved to a preset position. The locking position detection module 23 can be constructed using limit switches, magnetic induction switches, or photoelectric sensors, etc., and the specific installation position is selected according to the layout space and detection accuracy requirements. The locking position detection module 23 can sense in real time whether the end of the cover curtain 212 or the end block of the support shaft 213 has reached the terminal position and feeds back the "positioned" signal to the control system. Then, through the above feedback signal, the system can trigger the locking or unlocking action of the material shielding strip assembly 21, realizing automatic closed-loop control of the entire process. When selecting the detection object, if the end of the cover curtain 212 is detected, a more direct and accurate state judgment can be obtained, which is suitable for flexible curtain structures; if the end block of the support shaft 213 is detected, it has good rigidity reference and positioning stability, which is suitable for rigid or semi-rigid unfolding structures. The cover strip assembly 21 and the locking position detection module 23 improve the control reliability and automation level of the automatic cover device 2 through the above-mentioned multi-form sensing and feedback mechanism.

[0242] The connection between the material shielding strip assembly 21 and the unfolding locking device 24, the retracting locking device 25, and the locking drive module 26 is such that each end is equipped with a set of latch hooks, eccentric pressure blocks, and pins. The locking drive module 26 drives them to lock or unlock the end of the support shaft 213 or the end of the cover curtain 212, forming a "double-end locking seal". Specifically, to achieve stable positioning and sealing of the shielding tape assembly 21 at its unfolded and retracted ends, a locking mechanism consisting of an unfolding locking device 24, a retracting locking device 25, and a locking drive module 26 is provided at the head and tail ends of the storage cabinet 4, respectively. Each locking mechanism includes a latch hook, an eccentric pressure block, and a pin assembly for mechanical limiting and locking, which are respectively arranged corresponding to the end of the support shaft 213 or the end of the cover curtain 212 of the shielding tape assembly 21. The locking drive module 26 can use a motor or a cylinder as the drive source, and control the above-mentioned locking components through a transmission mechanism to achieve action switching, thereby completing the locking and unlocking operations of both ends of the shielding tape assembly 21. When the material shielding belt assembly 21 moves to the target position, the locking drive module 26 drives the locking device (unlocking locking device 24, retracting locking device 25) to engage and lock with the support shaft 213 or the end of the cover curtain 212, forming a "double-end locking seal" structure. This ensures the mechanical stability and sealing reliability of the material shielding belt assembly 21 in the extreme position state, and prevents displacement or loosening caused by external force or material accumulation.

[0243] The connection between the shielding belt assembly 21, the variable height material handling device 1, and the self-cleaning device 3 is designed to ensure coordinated operation of each subsystem and avoid spatial interference. An interlocking control mechanism is implemented between the shielding belt assembly 21, the variable height material handling device 1, and the self-cleaning device 3 in their operational sequence. Specifically, the shielding belt assembly 21 can only be deployed or retracted after the material handling and blowing actions have finished and the device has returned to its original position, thus preventing interference. During system operation, the deployment and retraction of the shielding belt assembly 21 can only be executed after the variable height material handling device 1 has completed its material handling and fully returned to its initial position, and after the self-cleaning device 3 has completed its blowing and cleaning actions and returned to its standby position. This interlocking logic, through the control system, schedules the action cycles of each device, achieving temporal isolation between the shielding belt assembly 21 and other movable devices. This effectively avoids structural interference caused by spatial overlap or path conflicts during material handling, cleaning, and shielding processes, improving the stability and safety of equipment operation.

[0244] The connection between the material shielding strip assembly 21 and the storage tank body 4 is achieved by setting U-shaped guide grooves, angle aluminum rails, and sealing strips on both sides, allowing the edges of the cover curtain to slide and achieve side sealing. To achieve guiding cooperation and lateral sealing between the material shielding strip assembly 21 and the storage tank body 4, the left and right sides of the storage tank body 4 are provided with a guide and sealing composite structure, including U-shaped guide grooves, angle aluminum rails, and sealing strips arranged longitudinally. The two side edges of the cover curtain 212 are embedded in the U-shaped guide grooves or angle aluminum rails, and under their guidance, they achieve smooth sliding along the longitudinal direction of the storage tank body 4, preventing the cover curtain 212 from shifting, warping, or derailing during operation; the sealing strip is set on the inner or outer edge of the guide groove or rail, covering and pressing the edge of the cover curtain 212, ensuring smooth sliding while laterally limiting and sealing it, thereby forming an effective side sealing structure, improving the dustproof, moisture-proof, and isolation performance of the material shielding strip assembly 21, and ensuring the stability of the internal environment of the storage tank body 4.

[0245] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the material shielding tape assembly 21 and the related locking device and drive mechanism can be divided into two states: static working condition and dynamic working condition.

[0246] In the static operating condition, there are two states: a covered static state and a retracted static state. In the covered static state, when the cover curtain 212 is fully extended, the unfolding locking device 24 and the retraction locking device 25 at the head and tail ends of the storage tank are both in a closed locking state, used to lock the support shaft 213 or the end of the cover curtain 212 at both ends to prevent displacement. At this time, the material shielding belt drive module 22 is in an unloaded state or maintains a slight preload to reduce system energy consumption and avoid load reaction. Simultaneously, the edge of the cover curtain 212 forms a contact with the sealing strip in the guide rail, generating line contact pressure to achieve effective lateral sealing. In the retracted static state, when the material shielding belt assembly 21 is retracted, the cover curtain 212 is wound around the support shaft 213 and retracted to one end of the material cart 5. To prevent accidental unwinding caused by external disturbance or gravity, the retraction locking device 25 locks the support shaft 213 near the end of the material cart 5 to ensure the stability and safety of the winding state.

[0247] During operation, there are two states: an unfolded state and a retracted state. In the unfolded state, when the material covering belt assembly 21 switches from the retracted state to the unfolded state, it is first driven by the locking drive module 26 to release the locking state of the unfolding locking device 24 located at the head end of the storage cabinet 4; then, the material covering belt drive module 22 applies unwinding or pushing drive to the support shaft 213, causing the cover curtain 212 to unfold along the guide rail. When the end of the cover curtain 212 moves to the head end of the storage cabinet 4, it triggers the locking position detection module 23 located at that position. After recognizing the positioning signal, the locking drive module 26 drives the unfolding locking device 24 to press down and complete the locking; thereafter, as the material cart 5 moves along the storage cabinet, the other end of the cover curtain 212 is passively pulled out until it is fully unfolded, achieving complete coverage. In the retraction mode, when the cover strip assembly 21 needs to be retracted from the unfolded state, the system first releases the locking state of the retraction locking device 25 located at the tail end of the storage cabinet 4, releasing the tail end of the cover; then, the cover strip drive module 22 applies a rewind or pull drive to the support shaft 213, causing the cover 212 to retract along the guide track; when the cover 212 returns to the initial position, its tail end triggers the locking position detection module 23 located at the tail end of the storage cabinet 4. After recognizing the positioning signal, the locking drive module 26 drives the retraction locking device 25 to press down and lock, completing the storage action, and the system returns to the static standby state.

[0248] Material shielding tape drive module 22

[0249] The structure of the material shielding belt drive module 22 mainly includes a linear module 221, a pneumatic gripper 222, a mounting bracket, and a (preferred) floating compensation unit. One set is provided on each of the left and right sides of the storage tank to realize the synchronous clamping and driving of the material shielding belt assembly 21 and the two ends of the support shaft 213.

[0250] The linear module 221 is fixed to the side wall of the storage tank 4 and arranged along the length of the storage tank. The pneumatic claw 222 is installed on the slider end of the linear module 221 and can clamp the two ends of the support shaft 213 of the material shielding tape assembly 21. During operation, the linear module 221 outputs axial thrust or pull under the drive of the controller, which drives the support shaft 213 and the front edge of the cover curtain 212 to unfold or retract along the length of the storage tank. When the end of the cover curtain 212 or the end block of the support shaft 213 triggers the locking position detection module 23 to reach the position, the linear module 221 stops, and the locking drive module 26 drives the unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25 to lock the end of the cover curtain 212, so that the locking mechanism maintains the position and seal in a static state.

[0251] Linear Module 221

[0252] The linear module 221 includes a fixed base, a guide rail and a slider pair, a transmission mechanism and a drive unit. The transmission mechanism can be a ball screw drive or a synchronous belt drive. The drive unit is preferably a stepper motor or a servo motor. Buffer devices or limit switches are provided at both ends of the slide stroke to realize displacement control and limit protection. The linear module 221 is used to generate linear driving force along the longitudinal direction of the storage tank, driving the connected pneumatic claw 222 to reciprocate.

[0253] The linear module 221 has a horizontally extending body shape and a slender strip shape composed of a linear guide rail, a slider and a drive structure, and realizes reciprocating linear motion along the longitudinal direction of the storage tank.

[0254] Pneumatic chuck 222

[0255] The pneumatic gripper 222 has a parallel or three-finger parallel opening and closing structure and is equipped with a high-friction wear-resistant clamping pad to firmly clamp the end of the support shaft 213 and prevent slippage or slippage. The pneumatic gripper 222 is fixedly connected to the end face of the linear module 221 slider through the mounting flange and moves synchronously with the slider to drive the unfolding or retraction of the shielding tape assembly 21.

[0256] The pneumatic gripper 222 is vertically mounted on the slider surface of the output end of the linear module 221. The pneumatic gripper 222 has a rectangular or square shape and a regularly symmetrical clamping surface, used to clamp the end of the material shielding tape assembly 21 and the support shaft 213. As an end effector, the pneumatic gripper 222 clamps the end of the support shaft of the material shielding tape assembly during the driving process and reliably transmits linear thrust or tension to the support shaft to achieve the unfolding and retraction of the material shielding tape.

[0257] The overall shape of the material shielding tape drive module 22 is arranged in the form of "integrated linear sliding mechanism + end gripper", consisting of a long and thin linear motion module and a rectangular or square gripper at the end. The material shielding tape drive module 22 has a compact shape and obvious linear characteristics, and has the typical layout features of "long and thin linear mechanism + clamping end actuator", which is conducive to spatial integration and symmetrical installation.

[0258] The material shielding belt drive module 22 is installed on the outside of the left and right side walls of the storage cabinet 4, arranged symmetrically. The mounting reference plane of the material shielding belt drive module 22 is perpendicular to the cabinet body of the storage cabinet 4, and the guide axis is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the storage cabinet 4 (i.e., the movement direction of the material shielding belt assembly 21). The overall arrangement direction is parallel to the length direction of the cabinet body. The material shielding belt drive module 22 is fixed to the side wall of the storage cabinet by the mounting bracket 313. The module output direction of the material shielding belt drive module 22 points to both ends of the support shaft 213 of the material shielding belt assembly 21, realizing the clamping and driving of the ends of the support shaft 213. The stroke range of the linear module 221 covers from the retracted locking position (the locking area near the retracted locking device 25 at the tail end) to the unfolded locking position (the area near the head end). Unlocking device 24 The locking area ensures that the material shielding tape assembly 21 can be controlled and driven throughout the entire arrangement area. The installation height of the material shielding tape drive module 22 is consistent with the axis of the end of the support shaft 213, ensuring the coaxial accuracy and symmetry of the clamping operation, and improving the stability and synchronization of the material shielding tape assembly 21 during the unfolding and retraction process.

[0259] The connection between the material shielding belt drive module 22 and the material shielding belt assembly 21 is as follows: the material shielding belt drive module 22 forms a clamping connection with the material shielding belt assembly 21 through the pneumatic claw 222 installed at the output end of the slider; the pneumatic claw 222 clamps the left and right ends of the support shaft 213 of the material shielding belt assembly 21, and performs reciprocating linear motion along the longitudinal direction of the storage tank under the drive of the linear module 221, so as to apply the linear thrust or pull force to the support shaft 213 through the pneumatic claw 222, thereby driving the cover curtain 212 to open or retract as a whole, realizing the automatic covering or opening function of the material above the storage tank body 4.

[0260] The connection between the material shielding belt drive module 22 and the locking position detection module 23 is as follows: The material shielding belt drive module 22 and the locking position detection module 23 are configured with a motion stroke monitoring and control logic coordination. When the material shielding belt drive module 22 drives the support shaft 213 to move to the head or tail end position of the storage cabinet 4, the locking position detection module 23, located at the corresponding position, is first triggered by the end of the support shaft 213 or its attached limiting structure, thus identifying the "head end in position" or "tail end in position" state. The position detection signal serves as a key logic judgment basis in the control system, triggering the material shielding belt drive module 22 to stop its linear pushing or pulling action, and as the starting condition for subsequent locking control, driving the locking drive module 26 to perform the pressing or unlocking operation of the unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25, thereby ensuring the accurate positioning and reliable locking of the material shielding belt assembly 21 at the end of its movement, avoiding malfunctions and mechanical interference.

[0261] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the material shielding belt drive module 22 and the related locking device and drive mechanism can be divided into two states: static working condition and dynamic working condition.

[0262] In a static state, the material shielding tape drive module 22 has two operating modes: a covered static state and a retracted static state. Firstly, in the covered static state, the pneumatic gripper 222 is in a releaseable state or maintains a slight clamping state to preserve the tension of the support shaft, and the linear slider stops at a safe position outside the head-end locking area. Furthermore, the double-end locking structure (expanding locking device 24 and retracting locking device 25) ensures stable maintenance and sealing control of the current state, guaranteeing reliable stopping and holding capability when the device is not in operation. Secondly, in the covered static state, the material shielding tape drive module 22 stops its movement output, and the pneumatic gripper 222 releases its clamp to avoid applying excessive load to the support shaft 213 or maintains a slight pre-tight clamping as needed to provide minimum tension. The double-end locking mechanism, consisting of the unfolding locking device 24 and the retracting locking device 25, performs the functions of rigid positioning and sealing at the ends. The slider of the linear module 221 stops at a safe stopping position outside the head-end locking area and maintains a specified safe clearance with the locking mechanism. The drive motor is in a braked state to suppress residual displacement. The static state is one of the permissible conditions of the control system, used to prevent accidental start-up and mechanism interference, and to ensure end positioning accuracy and sealing reliability. Secondly, in the retracted static mode, the slider retracts to the tail end origin position, completely withdrawing from the locking mechanism's operating area, and the pneumatic gripper 222 is in a loose or lightly clamped state; at this time, the retraction locking device 25 locks it to achieve stable retraction and position holding of the slider. In the retracted static condition, the material shielding tape drive module 22 stops its motion output and causes the slider of the linear module 221 to return to the tail end origin position, withdrawing from the motion envelope area of ​​the retraction locking device 25 and its associated components; the pneumatic gripper 222 is in a loose state, or maintains a small clamping force not exceeding the specified preload to provide minimum tension; the retraction locking device 25 rigidly locks the end of the material shielding tape assembly 21 and undertakes the position holding and sealing functions; the control system uses this state as one of the permissible conditions for restart, and prohibits the material shielding tape drive module 22 from starting or reversing without obtaining valid confirmation of retraction locking, in order to prevent overtravel and mechanism interference.

[0263] During operation, the material shielding belt drive module 22 consists of two phases: unfolding and retraction. Firstly, during unfolding, the retraction locking device 25 at the tail end is released. Then, the pneumatic gripper 222 closes and clamps the support shaft 213. The linear module 221 drives the slider to advance towards the head end at a constant speed, causing the support shaft assembly 213 and the leading edge of the cover curtain 212 to move forward. When the slider triggers the locking position detection module 23 at the head end, the control system stops the material shielding belt drive module 22. Simultaneously, the pneumatic gripper 222 maintains its clamping position or releases appropriately. The locking drive module 26 drives the unfolding locking device 24 at the head end to complete the locking action. Afterward, the material cart 5 continues to pull the cover curtain 212 to complete the remaining stroke until it is fully unfolded and covered. Secondly, during the retraction phase, the unfolding locking device 24 at the head end is first released, the claws close and clamp the support shaft, and the linear module drives the slider to pull back at a constant speed towards the tail end, causing the support shaft and the cover curtain to retract synchronously; when the slider triggers the locking position detection module 23 at the tail end, the material shielding belt drive module 22 stops operating, and the locking drive module 26 drives the retraction locking device 25 at the tail end to complete the final locking.

[0264] Locking position detection module 23

[0265] The structure of the locking position detection module 23 includes an arrival detection unit, a target component, an installation adjustment component, and electrical connectors. The arrival detection unit can be any one of a mechanical limit switch (roller type or plunger type micro switch), an inductive proximity switch, a magnetic induction switch, or a photoelectric sensor (reflective or through-beam type, equipped with a reflector or light shield), or a combination of two or more forms to achieve redundant detection; the target component is set at the front edge of the cover or the end of the support shaft 213, and can be a trigger cam with a bevel or boss, a metal target, a reflector, or a permanent magnet, etc., forming a stable trigger pair with the corresponding detection unit. To achieve precise installation and fine-tuning of position, the detection unit is assembled on the side wall of the storage tank via an L-shaped adjustable bracket with a long slot, a graduated positioning scale, and a quick-locking clamp or a fixing clamp. Optional mechanical hard limit blocks and protective covers can be added to improve impact resistance and dustproof performance. The electrical components use an M12 type round plug or terminal box and a 24VDC power supply cable for standardized connection. Shielded signal lines are provided when necessary to improve anti-interference capabilities, thereby ensuring that 23 outputs a reliable position signal at its end, which the control unit uses to implement the timing linkage of drive stop and locking actions.

[0266] The shape and arrangement of the locking position detection module 23 are configured according to the detection principle and installation environment. The detection element can adopt a non-contact standardized housing, including a cylindrical sensor or a rectangular housing with mounting holes, which facilitates quick assembly with a universal bracket; or it can adopt a mechanical micro-motion limit switch, with a small rectangular metal housing and a roller-type or plunger-type trigger mechanism at the front end, suitable for contact-type limit or position detection. The locking position detection module 23 is fixed to the side wall of the storage tank or a special mounting base by an adjustable bracket assembly. The bracket is made of stainless steel bent plate, which has sufficient structural rigidity and corrosion resistance, and is provided with elongated holes or grid-shaped holes along the installation direction to realize micro-adjustment and precise positioning of the detection element in the longitudinal, lateral and pitch directions, thereby adapting to the trajectory and assembly tolerance of different target parts. The locking position detection module 23 is typically arranged in a combination of "sensor unit + adjustable bracket + target component". The target component is set at the edge of the cover or the end of the support shaft. It can be in the form of a boss or inclined cam, metal target, reflector or magnetic body. By cooperating with the relative position of the detection element, it can realize the stable triggering of the unfolded or retracted end position and the accurate perception of the running status.

[0267] The locking position detection modules 23 are respectively set at the head and tail ends of the device to confirm the position of the cover curtain 212 when it is fully extended and retracted. Each end is equipped with a complete detection unit, and main / backup or heterogeneous redundancy can be used to improve reliability and safety redundancy when necessary. The detection element is installed on the inner side wall of the storage cabinet 4 and near the upper opening, arranged in the same direction as the running direction of the cover curtain 212 or the support shaft 213. Its sensing axis should be precisely aligned with the movement trajectory of the target part (the front edge of the cover curtain 212 or the end of the support shaft 213) to ensure that a stable position trigger signal can be generated when the target part reaches the predetermined end position. In order to reduce the detection error caused by slight deflection of the edge of the cover curtain 212 or lateral deviation of the path, the detection element is preferentially arranged on the straight section of the running path, avoiding the guide reversal or sharp corner area. The above arrangement principle can improve the trigger repeatability and judgment stability, and ensure the timeliness and reliability of the locking control action.

[0268] The locking position detection module 23 and the material shielding tape assembly 21 are coupled using a non-contact position detection mechanism: a target component (such as a trigger boss with a bevel, a permanent magnet, a reflector, or a metal target) is set at the leading edge of the cover curtain 212 or the end of the support shaft 213. When the target component enters the effective detection area of ​​the locking position detection module 23, a positioning trigger signal is generated to provide feedback on the current position and end position status of the material shielding tape assembly 21. There is no rigid connection between the two components. The detection gap is set according to the effective detection distance of the sensor and the assembly tolerance to avoid applying additional load to the cover curtain 212 or the support shaft 213 and to improve trigger repeatability and anti-interference capability. The above detection signal serves as the state input of the control system and is used to drive the timing linkage and interlock control of stop and locking execution.

[0269] The arrival signal of the locking position detection module 23 serves as a prerequisite for stopping the material shielding belt drive module 22. Upon receiving the arrival signal from the locking position detection module 23, the control unit immediately switches from "drive operation" to "locking execution." When the target part reaches the predetermined end position, the locking position detection module 23 outputs a discrete "arrival" signal to the control unit. This signal, after debouncing and validity verification, serves as a prerequisite for stopping the movement output of the material shielding belt drive module 22. Based on this, the control unit switches from the "drive stage" to the "locking execution stage" and triggers the locking drive module 26 to perform pressing or unlocking actions on the corresponding end's unfolding locking device 24 or retracting locking device 25. During the period without confirmation of arrival from the locking position detection module 23 or confirmation of the locking state, the material shielding belt drive module 22 is disabled by start / stop and reverse start prohibition to prevent overtravel and mechanical interference, and to ensure the timing of the end positioning and locking process is controllable and safe.

[0270] The locking position detection module 23 establishes an authorization and interlocking relationship with the unfolding locking device 24, the retracting locking device 25, and their locking drive module 26: only when the locking position detection module 23 detects that the target part has reached the predetermined end position and outputs a valid positioning signal, the control unit can issue an action permission to the locking drive module 26 to drive the unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25 at the corresponding end to perform locking or unlocking; at the same time, the status feedback of the locking mechanism and the signal of the locking position detection module 23 together constitute the start-stop criterion. If the "unlocking valid" confirmation is not obtained, the start-stop disabling and reverse operation prohibition are implemented for the material shielding belt drive module 22, blocking the erroneous operation in the unlocked state from the source; the above-mentioned "authorization-feedback-suppression" closed-loop control ensures that the timing of the end position positioning and locking process is controllable and safe and reliable, avoiding overtravel and mechanism interference.

[0271] The locking position detection module 23 establishes a cycle interlock relationship with the variable height material device 1 and the self-cleaning device 3: when the variable height material device 1 or the self-cleaning device 3 is not in the "original position" state, the position signal generated by the locking position detection module 23 does not constitute a driving permission condition. Based on this, the control unit implements start-stop and disable of the material shielding belt drive module 22, prohibiting it from starting or running in reverse; only after receiving the original position confirmation signal from the variable height material device 1 and the self-cleaning device 3 and meeting the process sequence requirements can the position signal of the locking position detection module 23 be accepted for state switching and subsequent locking process triggering; the above interlock logic forms a sequential control chain with "original position confirmation → position confirmation → locking execution" as the core, avoiding mechanical interference and working condition conflicts, and ensuring that each subsystem operates safely, reliably and collaboratively according to the predetermined cycle.

[0272] The electrical interface of the locking position detection module 23 adopts a 24 VDC industrial standard PNP or NPN open-collector digital output and is connected to the discrete input channel of the PLC or control unit. To improve the channel integrity monitoring capability, the output logic is preferably configured as normally closed (NC) to achieve self-testing in case of disconnection or power failure. According to functional safety requirements, dual-channel redundancy (combination of similar or dissimilar sensors) can be adopted, and AND / OR voting strategy and timing consistency verification are configured in the control unit. The input side is equipped with debouncing and Schmitt trigger shaping, surge, reverse connection, short circuit protection and common-mode rejection filtering; the signal cable adopts shielded drag chain cable and is grounded at one end, and the terminal connection is managed according to the I / O allocation table number; the above interface signals are written into the control logic as start / stop permission and interlocking criteria, and are parameterized and recorded according to the system safety level when necessary to achieve reliable support for drive stop, locking execution and abnormal alarm.

[0273] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the locking position detection module 23 and the relevant locking device and drive mechanism can be divided into two states: static working condition and dynamic working condition.

[0274] During operation, the locking position detection module 23 participates in the switching of position signal acquisition and control stages: First, during the unfolding process, the material shielding belt drive module 22 drives the material shielding belt assembly 21 to advance towards the head end along the length of the storage tank. When the target part located at the front edge of the cover curtain 212 or the end of the support shaft 213 enters the head end detection area, the module 23 outputs a discrete "in position" signal. Based on this, the control unit immediately stops the movement output of the material shielding belt drive module 22 and instructs the locking drive module 26 to perform the pressing and locking of the head end locking device 24. Second, during the retraction process, the material shielding belt drive module 22 runs in reverse to retract the assembly towards the tail end. When the target part enters the tail end detection area and the locking position detection module 23 outputs a "in position" signal, the control unit stops the material shielding belt drive module 22, and at the same time, the locking drive module 26 performs the locking action of the tail end retraction locking device 25. Throughout the entire unfolding or retracting stroke, the signal from the locking position detection module 23 is also used for overrun and timeout monitoring. If no valid confirmation of arrival is obtained within the specified time window or stroke threshold, the control unit determines it to be an abnormal state and executes an alarm and emergency stop to ensure operational safety.

[0275] In static operating conditions, including both covered and retracted static states, the locking position detection module 23 continuously outputs the current end position status as one of the criteria for system status confirmation and start / stop permission. Only when the end position and locking status are jointly confirmed as valid by the locking position detection module 23 and the locking status feedback is the next step or restart permitted. If no valid positioning is detected or the locking is not released, the control logic implements start / stop disabling and reverse operation prohibition on the material shielding belt drive module 22, thereby avoiding malfunctions and mechanical damage, ensuring that the state switching between drive and locking has a clear and reliable interlocking relationship and meets functional safety requirements.

[0276] Unlocking device 24

[0277] The unfolding locking device 24 is used to press and lock the front edge or the end of the support shaft of the material shielding tape assembly 21 after it has been unfolded into place. In one embodiment, both the unfolding locking device 24 and the retracting locking device 25 are composed of a mounting plate 241, a locking drive module 242 (which can be a cylinder, electric cylinder, or linear module), and a pin 243. The locking drive module 242 is fixed to the storage cabinet 4 via the mounting plate 241. When the locking position detection module 23 outputs a signal indicating that the device is in place, the locking drive module 242 drives the pin 243 to move downwards in the vertical direction and insert it into the corresponding lock hole to achieve end locking. When unlocking, the locking drive module 242 drives the pin 243 to move upwards and disengage from the lock hole to complete unlocking.

[0278] The unfolding locking device 24 has a compact box-type or "L"-shaped pressing fork structure. The front end of the pressing head is provided with a 30° to 45° guide chamfer or R2 to R5 rounded corner to facilitate self-guiding and positioning. The self-locking cam or connecting rod is placed in a closed housing. The housing forms a rigid protective boundary to the outside, which can effectively prevent external pollutants such as dust and debris from entering and avoid accidental interference with external components, thereby improving the operational reliability and safety of the mechanism. During installation, the unfolding locking device 24 is fixed above the head end of the side wall of the storage cabinet 4. The pressing center elevation is basically the same as the axis of the support shaft 213, and one set is set symmetrically on the left and right. The mounting interface seat adopts an elongated hole to achieve a centering fine adjustment of ±1.5 mm. The effective stroke area of ​​the pressing head (or pin) avoids mutual avoidance with the running channel of the cover curtain 212 to avoid motion interference and meet the assembly tolerance and operational safety requirements.

[0279] The unfolding locking device 24 is fixedly installed in the upper area of ​​the side wall end of the storage cabinet body 4. Its pressing center elevation is basically consistent with the axis of the support shaft 213, and one set is symmetrically installed on each side to ensure balanced force and stable centering during the locking process. The mounting interface seat is provided with an elongated oval mounting hole, which can achieve a fine adjustment of about ±1.5 mm in the horizontal and vertical directions to compensate for assembly tolerances and ensure accurate docking of the pressing head and the target part. The working stroke envelope of the pressing head of the unfolding locking device 24 establishes a rigid avoidance relationship with the running channel of the cover curtain 212, so that they do not interfere with each other, thereby ensuring that the cover curtain 212 unfolds and retracts smoothly along its guide channel in the non-locked state.

[0280] The unfolding locking device 24 and the locking drive module 26 are rigidly connected by a trunnion-linkage mechanism or a direct flange. The linear reciprocating stroke or angular displacement output by the locking drive module 26 is converted into motion by the self-locking mechanism (pin 243, such as an eccentric cam or a double crank with a center) built into the locking device, forming a pressing displacement on the pressure head 241 and generating a stable locking force. When the transmission component moves to the center position, the pin 243 of the self-locking mechanism enters a mechanical self-holding state. Even if the locking drive module 26 stops outputting or is in a power outage or air outage condition, the locking device can still maintain the pressing without retraction by relying on the internal force system balance, thereby realizing the fail-safe function of "stop driving - locking holding". The connection structure between the unfolding locking device 24 and the locking drive module 26 significantly improves the end positioning and sealing resistance to external loads and vibration loosening, reduces the holding energy consumption, and improves the overall energy efficiency and operational safety of the system by avoiding locking loosening caused by external forces, vibrations or drive failure.

[0281] The unfolding locking device 24 and the material shielding belt assembly 21 adopt a surface contact compression locking fit. During operation, the locking pressure head 241 outputs a compression displacement along its guide mechanism, applying a stable normal compression force to the end block of the support shaft 213 or the end piece of the cover curtain 212, forming a large-area surface contact, thereby achieving rigid positioning and reliable fixation of the end. To also ensure sealing function, a sealing pressure strip 245 is provided on the outside of the pressure beam, and forms a continuous line contact seal with the mating sealing seat (preferably EPDM or silicone material) at the upper opening of the storage tank at the locking position. The fit between the unfolding locking device 24 and the material shielding belt assembly 21, on the one hand, improves the end's resistance to external loads and vibration loosening through surface pressure locking, and on the other hand, establishes an effective barrier for the cabinet opening after locking, inhibiting the intrusion of dust, moisture and impurities, and realizing the integrated function of end positioning and port sealing.

[0282] The deployment locking device 24 and the locking position detection module 23 establish a signal link and closed-loop control relationship based on the confirmation of being in place: During operation, the locking position detection module 23 detects the target part entering the predetermined detection area and outputs a valid "in place" signal after de-jittering and shaping, which serves as a prerequisite for the locking action; the control unit issues an execution command to the locking drive module 26 accordingly, and the deployment locking device 24 completes the pressing and locking or unlocking and resetting. To achieve a closed-loop state, an auxiliary detection switch (locking in place or unlocking in place) is set on the deployment locking device 24 and feeds it back to the control unit in real time; the control unit performs logical comparison and timing interlocking (including timeout / overshoot criteria and normally closed NC disconnection self-test) between the in place signal of the locking position detection module 23 and the state feedback of the deployment locking device 24, and only allows process switching and subsequent actions when the criteria such as "in place confirmation - locking confirmation" or "unlocking confirmation - drive permission" are met simultaneously, thereby forming a clear and stable logical closure, improving the ability to prevent malfunctions and ensuring the functional safety and reliability of the drive-locking switching process.

[0283] A safety interlock mechanism is set between the unfolding locking device 24 and the drive linear module 22 to eliminate logical conflicts between drive execution and locking state: In the control logic, before receiving the "unlocked valid" confirmation signal output by the unfolding locking device 24, the drive linear module 22 is disabled from starting to stopping and from reversing, to avoid accidental drive causing mechanism interference, overtravel, or component damage when the lock is not released; the drive linear module 22 is only allowed to start or reverse when the unlock state is confirmed and the relevant end position signals meet the access conditions. In the unfolding state, after the unfolding locking device 24 completes the pressing and enters the locking holding state, the control unit releases the restriction on the traction action of the material cart 5, allowing it to continue moving to complete the covering stroke of the remaining cover curtain 212; through the above interlock design, the sequential coordination and state closed loop of the drive-locking actions are realized, significantly improving the safety and reliability of the device operation.

[0284] The unfolding locking device 24 is rigidly connected to the side wall or top area of ​​the storage tank body 4 using high-strength bolts and reinforcing plates to ensure sufficient structural rigidity and vibration resistance at the installation location. If necessary, positioning pins and anti-loosening components are installed between the contact surfaces to enhance fatigue resistance and anti-loosening capabilities. The working surface of the locking head of the unfolding locking device 24 cooperates with the corresponding sealing seat at the opening of the storage tank body 4, forming a continuous and stable line contact sealing interface under pressing conditions. The specified unit line pressure is achieved through the elastic deformation of the sealing material, thereby ensuring the integrity and reliability of the opening seal and effectively inhibiting the intrusion of dust, moisture, and foreign objects. The assembly and sealing structure of the unfolding locking device 24 improves the structural reliability of the locking device under long-term cyclic loads and vibration environments. Furthermore, it achieves an integrated "locking-sealing-positioning" function during the pressing process, significantly improving the safety and overall stability of the system operation.

[0285] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the locking device 24 and related locking devices and drive mechanisms can be divided into two states: a static working condition and a moving working condition.

[0286] The static operating conditions include both covered static and retracted static conditions. Firstly, in the covered static condition, the unfolding locking device 24 is in the locked closed position, the self-locking mechanism 243 achieves mechanical self-holding after passing the center, and the pressure head 241 applies a constant normal clamping force to the end of the material shielding strip and the sealing strip 245; the material shielding strip drive module 22 stops outputting, and the pneumatic gripper 222 can be released or maintained with a small pre-tension to provide minimum tension. Secondly, in the retracted static condition, the unfolding locking device 24 remains in the unlocked open position, and the relevant slider and pressure head retract to the safe stop position, avoiding the motion envelope of the locking mechanism; the material shielding strip drive module 22 returns to its tail end origin as one of the restart permission criteria.

[0287] The motion process includes both unfolding and retraction. Firstly, in the unfolding process, the material shielding belt drive module 22 advances the material shielding belt assembly to the head detection area at a set speed. After the locking position detection module 23 outputs a "in position" signal, the material shielding belt drive module 22 immediately stops. Then, the locking drive module 26 actuates the unfolding locking device 24 to press down and complete the end locking. Subsequently, the material cart 5 continues to move in the opposite direction, pulling the remaining width until full coverage. Secondly, in the retraction process, the locking drive module 26 first releases the unfolding locking device 24 to the open position. Then, the material shielding belt drive module 22 pulls back to retract the assembly to the tail end. When the tail end of the locking position detection module 23 provides confirmation of being in position, the retraction locking device 25 is triggered to perform end locking. The above sequence is constrained by system interlocking and overrun or timeout monitoring logic to ensure clear action rhythm, no mechanical interference, and to meet functional safety and reliability requirements.

[0288] Retract locking device 25

[0289] The retraction locking device 25 consists of a mounting plate 251, a locking drive module 252, a pin 253, a lock hole, a guide bushing, a travel limit or buffer, and a positioning detection component. The mounting plate 251 is fixed to the rear end area of ​​the storage cabinet body 4. The plate surface is provided with positioning pin holes and elongated oval adjustment holes for assembly positioning and micro-alignment adjustment in the horizontal or vertical direction. Reinforcing ribs are used to improve local load-bearing capacity and vibration resistance. The locking drive module 252 can be in the form of a cylinder, electric cylinder, or linear module, outputting linear stroke as the driving force for the pin 253. The pin 253 is rigidly connected to the push rod of the locking drive module 252, moving in the up and down direction to insert into or withdraw from the lock hole, thereby forming a geometric lock or unlock. The lock hole is set on the end block or tail end piece of the support shaft 213, preferably a round hole or fork-shaped groove structure, used to accommodate the pin and position and constrain the end. A guide bushing can be set at its entrance to reduce the impact of assembly and running deviations on the smoothness of insertion and provide wear-resistant support. The end position of the retracting locking device 25 can be configured with a stroke limiter or buffer to achieve mechanical hard limit and impact buffering, avoiding impact damage to the end of the pin. To achieve closed-loop control, the retracting locking device 25 can be equipped with a position detection element to collect the "lock in place, unlock in place" status and feed the discrete signal back to the control unit. Together with the tail end position signal of the locking position detection module 23, it completes the status confirmation and timing linkage control of the retracting locking process.

[0290] The overall shape of the retractable locking device 25 adopts a compact linear pin configuration, presenting a modular combination appearance of "linear drive unit + pin shaft + mounting plate". The locking drive module 252 and the pin are arranged along the same axis as 253. The locking drive module 252 is installed vertically or nearly vertically in a compact box-type housing to reduce space occupation and improve vibration resistance and stability. The front end of the pin 253 is provided with a 30° to 45° guide chamfer or R2 to R5 rounded corner transition. The lock hole inlet is preferably machined into a flared mouth and can be equipped with a guide bushing to achieve self-guided positioning, compensate for minor deviations in assembly and operation, and reduce the risk of interference and jamming during insertion. The key moving parts of the retractable locking device 25 (pin 253, connecting head, sliding guide) are placed in a simple protective cover or enclosed housing, with only necessary installation and adjustment interfaces remaining on the outside, thereby improving dust protection and safety of use, and facilitating modular assembly and maintenance of the whole machine.

[0291] The retractable locking device 25 is fixedly installed in the area above the tail end of the storage cabinet 4, and is arranged axially in a front-to-back manner with the unfolding locking device 24 at the head end. The working center elevation of the pin 253 of the retractable locking device 25 is basically at the same height as the axis of the support shaft 213 to ensure that the pin 253 and the lock hole have good coaxiality and insertion force stability during locking and unlocking. A set of retractable locking devices 25 is symmetrically set on each side of the storage cabinet 4, and the mechanical balance and structural stability of the tail end locking are achieved through symmetrical force. The installation interface adopts a rigid connection and is reserved for fine adjustment to compensate for assembly tolerances and ensure the geometric consistency between the pin entry path and the end of the support shaft 213.

[0292] The connection between the retraction locking device 25 and the material shielding belt assembly 21 is achieved through a geometric locking mechanism using a "pin-locking hole" fit: under the command of the control unit, the pin 253 is driven along its axial direction by the locking drive module 252 into the locking hole provided on the end block or tail end piece of the support shaft 213, forming a positioning and constraint on the tail end; the fit is a surface contact or point contact positioning relationship of geometric locking, and the two do not constitute a rigid fixed connection; by limiting the axial and radial degrees of freedom of the pin 253 and retaining necessary assembly float, reliable locking and repeated positioning in the retracted state are ensured, while avoiding assembly interference and stress concentration caused by over-constraint, thereby improving the durability and operational stability of the end connection.

[0293] The pin 253 of the retraction locking device 25 and the push rod of the locking drive module 252 are rigidly connected, preferably through a threaded joint or connecting fork lug, to ensure direct force transmission and axial concentric fixation. The connection part is equipped with an anti-rotation structure (flat part, pin) and anti-loosening measures (threaded locking adhesive, double nuts), and a guide bushing ensures axial guidance of the pin. This directly converts the linear stroke output by the locking drive module 252 into the lifting and lowering motion of the pin 253 without intermediate transmission links, completing the insertion and withdrawal of the lock hole. The connection between the pin 253 and the locking drive module 252 has a simple structure, short force transmission path, and high rigidity, effectively eliminating transmission lag and backlash caused by gaps and flexible coupling, improving the response speed, positioning repeatability, and stability of the locking action. Simultaneously, the assembly calibration of the pin stroke zero position and insertion depth is achieved through thread pre-adjustment (or fork lug length fine-tuning), and stroke limit is used to avoid mechanical impact and jamming caused by over-travel.

[0294] A signal link and closed-loop control relationship based on tail-end arrival confirmation is established between the retraction locking device 25 and the locking position detection module 23: When the locking position detection module 23 detects that the target part (the front edge of the cover curtain 212 or the end block of the support shaft 213) enters the tail-end detection area and outputs a valid "tail-end arrival" discrete signal after de-jittering and shaping, this signal serves as the action authorization condition for the retraction locking device 25. The control unit then instructs the locking drive module 252 to drive the pin 253 downward to insert into the lock hole to complete geometric locking; at the same time, the locking or unlocking auxiliary detection switch set on the retraction locking device 25 will change the status. The signal is fed back to the control unit in real time and compared with the signal from the locking position detection module 23. The timeout or overrun criteria and the normally closed (NC) disconnection self-test are superimposed. The process switching and subsequent driving action are only allowed when the criteria of "tail end in place → pin locking confirmation" or "unlocking confirmation → drive permission" are met simultaneously. If "unlocking valid" or "locking confirmation" is not obtained, the material shielding belt drive module 22 is started, stopped, disabled and reverse operation is prohibited. The above correlation and closed-loop mechanism ensures that the locking trigger condition is clear and the status judgment is reliable, avoids malfunction and mechanical interference, and improves the safety and logical integrity of the system operation.

[0295] A safety interlock relationship is established between the retraction locking device 25 and the drive linear module 22. The control criterion is that the "unlock valid" and "lock confirmation" signals output by the retraction locking device 25 are necessary conditions for the drive linear module 22 to start and stop. Specifically, before obtaining the "unlock valid" confirmation (including signal missing, invalid, or disconnection judgment), the drive linear module 22 is disabled from starting and stopping and from running in reverse to prevent accidental drive in the locked state from causing mechanical interference, overtravel, or structural damage. After the retraction locking device 25 completes the pin insertion and feeds back the "lock confirmation" signal, the control unit determines that the system has entered the retracted static state and writes the retracted static state into the interlock chain as a prerequisite and logical basis for subsequent working condition switching (such as standby, maintenance, or re-deployment). The above interlock design realizes a sequential control closed loop of "unlock confirmation → drive permission, lock confirmation → retracted static", ensuring that the drive execution and locking action do not conflict in time and space, thereby improving the functional safety and reliability of the system operation.

[0296] A safety interlock mechanism is established between the retraction locking device 25 and the drive linear module 22. The retraction locking device 25 is rigidly fixed to the tail end structure of the storage cabinet 4 via its mounting plate 251, and adopts a connection form of "high-strength bolts + reinforcing plate" to improve the load-bearing capacity and vibration resistance of the installation part. The mounting plate 251 can be pre-set with elongated oval adjustment holes, and positioning pins are configured in key parts to achieve assembly reference positioning and slight alignment in the horizontal or vertical direction. The connection pair adopts anti-loosening measures (such as spring washers, double nuts or thread locking adhesive), and if necessary, anti-rotation stop or anti-reverse shims are added to the contact surface to suppress loosening and displacement drift under long-term cyclic loads. After assembly, the flatness and perpendicularity of the mounting surface should meet the design requirements, so that the pin 253 maintains good coaxiality and fit clearance with the locking hole of the support shaft end block or tail end head piece throughout the entire stroke. Under frequent start-stop and impact conditions, the above-mentioned rigid connection and geometric constraints can continuously maintain the consistency and stability of the assembly reference, thereby ensuring the repeatability and reliability of the locking action. In the control logic, if no valid unlocking signal is detected from the retractable locking device 25, the drive linear module 22 is prohibited from starting or performing reverse operation to avoid accidental drive while the lock is not released, which could cause mechanical interference or structural damage. When the retractable locking device 25 completes the pin insertion and sends back a locking confirmation signal, the control unit determines that the system has entered a retracted and stationary state, which serves as the basis for subsequent operating condition switching and interlocking logic. The interlocking design between the retractable locking device 25 and the drive linear module 22 ensures the coordination of the action sequence between drive and lock, improving the safety and reliability of the device operation.

[0297] The retraction locking device 25 is rigidly fixed to the tail end structure of the storage cabinet 4 via its mounting plate 251. A high-strength bolt + reinforcing plate connection is used to improve the load-bearing capacity and vibration resistance of the installation area. The mounting plate 251 can be pre-set with elongated oval adjustment holes, and positioning pins are configured at key locations to achieve assembly reference positioning and slight alignment in the horizontal or vertical directions. Anti-loosening measures are used for the connection pairs (such as spring washers, double nuts, or thread-locking adhesive). If necessary, anti-rotation stoppers or anti-reverse washers are added to the contact surface to suppress loosening and displacement drift under long-term cyclic loads. After assembly, the flatness and perpendicularity of the mounting surface should meet the design requirements. The locking pin 253 maintains good coaxiality and clearance with the locking hole of the end block or tail end piece of the support shaft 213 throughout its entire stroke. Under frequent start-stop and impact conditions, the rigid connection and geometric constraints described above can continuously maintain the consistency and stability of the assembly reference, thereby ensuring the repeatability and reliability of the locking action. The assembly structure of the retractable locking device 25 and the storage cabinet 4 not only ensures the rigid fixation between the retractable locking device 25 and the storage cabinet 4, but also maintains a stable geometric relationship under frequent start-stop and impact conditions, thereby ensuring the coaxiality and clearance between the pin 253 and the locking hole of the end block or tail end piece of the support shaft 213.

[0298] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the retraction locking device 25 and related locking devices and drive mechanisms can be divided into two states: static working condition and dynamic working condition.

[0299] Under static conditions, the retraction locking device 25 operates in two modes depending on the system status: covering static and retracting static. In the covering static mode, the retraction locking device 25 remains in the unlocked position, the pin 253 is fully withdrawn from the locking hole and retracts to the safe stopping position, avoiding the running channel of the material shielding belt assembly 21, thereby ensuring that there is no mechanical interference or envelope overlap during unfolding or operation. Secondly, when the device is in a stationary state, after the material shielding belt drive module 22 has finished pulling back and stopped, the control unit commands the locking drive module 252 to actuate. The pin 253 moves axially downward and inserts into the lock hole to form a geometric lock and rigid positioning at the tail end. The pneumatic claw 222 can be released or maintained with a small pre-tightening to provide minimum tension and prevent the cover curtain 212 from loosening. During the stationary state, the locking signal is continuously fed back to the control unit by the auxiliary detection switch as a criterion for disabling the material shielding belt drive module 22 if it is accidentally started. If the "unlocking valid" confirmation is not obtained, the start, stop and reverse operation of the material shielding belt drive module 22 are suppressed to ensure the interlocking closed loop and operational safety in the stationary state.

[0300] Under static conditions, the retraction locking device 25 operates in two modes: deployment and retraction, depending on the system status, and includes closed-loop and safety monitoring. Firstly, during the deployment phase, the locking drive module 252 actuates, causing the pin 253 to move axially upwards and exit the locking hole, releasing the tail end geometric lock. After the auxiliary detection component confirms "unlocking is effective" and sends the result to the control unit, the material shielding belt drive module 22 receives start / stop permission and propels the material shielding belt assembly 21 towards the head end at a set speed. When the target component enters the head end detection area and the locking position detection module 23 outputs a "head end in place" signal, the control unit stops the movement output of the material shielding belt drive module 22 and then instructs the deployment locking device 24 to perform clamping and locking, forming end positioning and sealing of the covering end. Secondly, during the retraction process, the control unit instructs the shielding belt drive module 22 to run in reverse, pulling the shielding belt assembly 21 back towards the tail end; when the target part enters the tail end detection area and the locking position detection module 23 outputs the "tail end in place" signal, the control unit stops the shielding belt drive module 22, and then actuates the locking drive module 252 to drive the pin 253 to move downward and insert into the lock hole, realizing tail end geometric locking and rigid positioning, and the system determines that it has entered the "retractable and stationary" state. Thirdly, in the closed-loop and safety monitoring, during the entire unfolding or retraction process, the pin status of the retraction locking device 25 (the locking or unlocking signal provided by the positioning detection component) and the end position signal of the locking position detection module 23 together constitute the immediate closed-loop criterion; the control unit performs debouncing and timing consistency verification on key signals, and sets timeout or over-position thresholds and normally closed (NC) disconnection self-checking mechanisms. If a valid positioning or locking confirmation signal is not obtained within the specified time window or stroke range, the system determines it to be abnormal, executes an alarm and stops the machine. At the same time, the start / stop and reverse operation of the material shielding belt drive module 22 are disabled to prevent mechanical interference and over-stroke, and ensure the functional safety and operational reliability of the movement process.

[0301] Locking drive module 26

[0302] The locking drive module 26 serves as the power and control unit for the end-mounted unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25. In its non-limiting implementation, it comprises functional units such as an execution unit 261, a guide and support unit 262, a connecting and coupling component 263, a mounting interface and reinforcement component 264, a position and status detection component 265, vibration damping and protection 266, and interfaces and pipelines 267. These units are modularly combined and rapidly assembled through standardized interfaces. Through the modular configuration of these functional units, the locking drive module 26 can be flexibly selected from pneumatic, electric, and sliding types according to working conditions without changing the overall installation boundaries. It also achieves seamless docking with the unfolding locking device 24 and the retracting locking device 25 through standardized connection and detection interfaces, thereby ensuring the force transmission stiffness, positioning repeatability, and functional safety of the locking or unlocking actions.

[0303] The locking drive module 26 has an overall linear execution unit configuration. Its appearance is divided into two types depending on the execution method: one is a cylinder or electric cylinder type, which is characterized by a cylindrical body with a linear push rod extending from the front end. The execution end is equipped with a connecting seat or flange for coaxial rigid connection with the unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25; the other is a linear module type, which is characterized by a rectangular beam structure with an external linear slider that reciprocates linearly along the beam. The end is equipped with a flange seat or standard connecting piece for direct docking with the execution part of the locking mechanism. To adapt to the narrow installation space on the side wall of the storage cabinet 4, the module has an overall linear columnar (cylinder / electric cylinder) or cuboid slide (linear module) appearance. The body is compact, and the air pipe and cable are led out from the rear end or side so as to be concealed in the narrow groove of the side wall of the cabinet, reducing the risk of shape envelope and interference. The actuator is preferably equipped with a standard interface such as a fork lug, flange, or ball joint to achieve coaxial connection with the pressure head of the unfolding locking device 24 and the pin of the retracting locking device 25, allowing for minor angle compensation to absorb assembly deviations. A reference positioning plane and scale are provided on the outer surface of the machine body for quick calibration of installation alignment and stroke (or insertion depth). Key moving parts are covered with protective covers and dustproof corrugated sleeves to improve environmental adaptability and protection level. Sensor cable trays, air pipes, and cables converge and are routed on the same side of the machine body, forming a standardized pipeline management channel, facilitating clamping, fixing, and daily maintenance. This ensures the compactness of the device while improving maintainability and the engineering adaptability of the overall layout.

[0304] The locking drive module 26 is fixedly installed on the upper areas of the head and tail ends of the side wall of the storage cabinet 4, corresponding to the front and rear of the unfolding locking device 24 and the retracting locking device 25, respectively, and symmetrically arranged on the left and right sides to achieve force balance and consistent action. During installation, the output axis of the locking drive module 26 should be coaxial or coplanar with the movement axis of the driven pin to reduce off-center load and lateral torque, and ensure the linearity and stability of the force transmission path. Its base and mounting plate adopt the interface form of "elongated oval adjustment hole + positioning pin", which can achieve a micro-alignment adjustment of about ±1.5 mm in the horizontal and vertical directions. Combined with the flatness and verticality requirements of the base reference surface, it ensures the precise alignment of the execution stroke with the axis of the support shaft 213. During assembly, the motion envelope of the locking drive module 26 should be checked to avoid the running channel of the material shielding belt assembly 21 and related guide structures to prevent motion interference; mechanical hard limit and buffer components should be set where necessary to suppress end impact. In the pneumatic implementation, the locking drive module 26 can be configured independently as "one lock and one drive", or it can be driven by the same clean air source through a multi-way distribution valve to drive the actuators on both sides. In the electric implementation, the power supply, encoder, driver cables and sensor cables are led out from the rear or side, and converged on one side of the machine body via a cable chain and equipped with anti-loosening clamps to ensure the bending radius of the pipeline and maintenance access. The fastening connection uses high-strength bolts and is supplemented with anti-loosening measures (spring washers, double nuts or thread locking adhesive). After installation, the alignment, stroke margin and end position signal consistency should be checked to ensure that the system balances alignment accuracy, transmission reliability and maintenance convenience within a limited space.

[0305] Execution Unit 261

[0306] The actuator 261 provides linear driving force and can be a pneumatic linear actuator (cylinder), preferably with a magnetic piston, and can be a single-rod or double-rod type with adjustable buffer depending on the working conditions; or an electric linear actuator (electric cylinder) or a ball screw linear module, with high repeatability positioning achieved by motor-screw transmission; or a slide-table linear module with an integrated structure of screw and guide rail to obtain higher guiding stiffness and load-bearing capacity. The linear stroke output by the actuator 261 is directly used to drive the pressure head of the locking device 24 to unfold or the pin of the locking device 25 to complete the locking or unlocking action.

[0307] Guiding and bearing unit 262

[0308] The guiding and bearing unit 262 adopts linear guide rails or sliders, bushing guides or integrated guide seats to ensure the precise linear movement of the execution unit 261 in the axial direction, and to withstand the lateral forces and torques caused by installation errors and working disturbances, thus ensuring motion accuracy and service life.

[0309] Connections and couplings 263

[0310] The connection and coupling 263 includes threaded joints, fork lugs / trunnions, universal ball joints or flange connections, used to achieve rigid connection with the pressure head of the unfolding locking device 24 or the pin of the retracting locking device 25 and provide necessary micro-angle compensation; and the connection interface is preferably provided with anti-rotation structure and anti-loosening measures to improve force transmission stiffness and vibration resistance reliability, and facilitate the assembly calibration of insertion depth and zero position.

[0311] Installation interface and reinforcement 264

[0312] The mounting interface and reinforcing member 264 are composed of a mounting plate, a reinforcing plate and positioning pin holes. The mounting holes adopt elongated oval adjustment holes to achieve horizontal or vertical fine adjustment of about ±1.5 mm, and form a rigid connection with high-strength bolts. Positioning pins are set in necessary parts to establish assembly benchmarks, ensuring coaxiality with the movement axis of the drive deployment locking device 24 or the retraction locking device 25 and the overall rigidity with the storage cabinet body 4.

[0313] Position and status detection component 265

[0314] The position and status detection element 265 is used for action position and status feedback. It can be a built-in magnetic switch, an external limit switch, or a proximity switch, providing discrete signals such as "front end or rear end" and "locked in or unlocked in" for the control unit to perform timing determination, interlocking, and fault self-checking (preferably a normally closed NC channel for wire breakage diagnosis). The vibration reduction and protection include end position buffering and mechanical hard limiting to suppress end position impact and reduce noise; an external dustproof cover or folding protective sleeve is used to improve the protection level and prevent dust and debris from entering and affecting guidance and sealing.

[0315] Interfaces and Piping 266

[0316] The interface and pipeline 266 adopt pipe fittings, throttle valves and triplet units, and are equipped with silencers and quick couplings; the electric type provides standard interfaces and round plugs for power supply, encoder, and driver, and the signal line is preferably shielded cable; all pneumatic and electrical pipelines can be arranged by drag chain to meet the bending radius and durability requirements in reciprocating motion environment.

[0317] The output end of the locking drive module 26 is rigidly connected to the actuator of the unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25 via its connecting unit 263. This connection can be achieved using a fork lug + pin, a threaded rod end + ball joint, or a flange for direct connection. The connection interface is arranged coaxially or coplanarly along the axis of motion of the actuator, allowing the linear stroke or angular displacement output by the locking drive module 26 to be directly converted into the lifting or lowering action of the locking mechanism's pin locking drive module 26 or the pressing or releasing action of the pressure head without intermediate transmission links, thereby completing the geometric locking and unlocking of the end. To ensure the linearity and rigidity of the force transmission path, the connecting pair is preferably equipped with an anti-rotation structure and anti-loosening measures. Small angle compensation of ±1 to 2° and assembly float of ±0.5 to 1.0 mm are allowed through the spherical rod end or floating pin sleeve to absorb installation errors without introducing significant backlash. The connecting hole or pin fit can be provided with an end face reference at the shaft shoulder. If necessary, the zero position and insertion depth can be calibrated by thread length and shims. The above structure has the characteristics of simple transmission, direct force, and high alignment accuracy. It can effectively reduce the risk of movement backlash and off-center load, and improve the stability, synchronization and repeatability of locking or unlocking processes. Under vibration and shock conditions, the high rigidity and low clearance design of the mating parts ensures that the actuator maintains a reliable mechanical locking state.

[0318] The closed-loop signal relationship between the locking drive module 26 and the locking position detection module 23 is as follows: a closed-loop signal link of "endpoint authorization - action execution - result confirmation" is established between the locking drive module 26 and the locking position detection module 23 to ensure the logical rigor and operational safety of the locking and unlocking actions. During operation, the locking position detection module 23 performs endpoint detection on the target component (such as the front edge of the cover curtain 212 or the end block of the support shaft 213). The discrete signal of "head end in place" or "tail end in place" output by the module is de-jittered and validity determined, and then used as the action authorization condition of the locking drive module 26 and input to the control unit. Only when the endpoint criterion is met can the control unit issue a drive command to the locking drive module 26. After the locking drive module 26 completes its execution, its action result is collected by the auxiliary detection switches on the corresponding unfolding locking device 24 and retracting locking device 25, generating a "lock in place" or "unlock valid" status signal, which is then fed back to the control unit. The control unit performs a logical comparison between the end position detection signal of the locking position detection module 23 and the locking or unlocking confirmation signal of the unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25. This comparison includes judgment, interlock shielding, and timing consistency verification. Safety judgments are implemented using timeout and overrun criteria: the system process allows the material shielding belt drive module 22 to advance or retract, or enters the retraction and stationary judgment phase, only when both conditions of "end position in place and locking (or unlocking) confirmation" are met simultaneously. If any signal is missing, contradictory, or abnormal (including the normally closed NC channel disconnection judgment), or if the timeout is not met, the system automatically enters a fault protection state, prohibiting the material shielding belt drive module 22 from starting, stopping, or reversing, and simultaneously outputs alarm information. Through this closed-loop signal design, the operation of the locking drive module 26 is guaranteed to be based on the end position confirmation of the locking position detection module 23, and the status feedback of the unfolding locking device 24 or the retracting locking device 25 is used as the result criterion, thereby achieving clear triggering conditions, reliable status judgment, rigorous interlocking logic, and safe and controllable operation.

[0319] A safety interlock logic is established between the locking drive module 26 and the material shielding belt drive module 22. During the control process, if the "unlock valid" confirmation signal output by the locking drive module 26 is not received, the material shielding belt drive module 22 is prohibited from starting or performing reverse operation, thereby avoiding erroneous driving when the lock is not released, and preventing mechanical interference, structural jamming, or component damage. After the locking drive module 26 completes the predetermined action and outputs the locking confirmation signal, the control unit allows the material shielding belt drive module 22 to continue running. That is, in the unfolding condition, the material cart 5 can continue to pull the remaining distance until the covering is completed; in the retraction condition, the system determines to enter the storage stationary state based on the signal. Through the above interlock design, the action sequence coordination and logical closure between the locking drive module 26 and the material shielding belt drive module 22 are ensured, realizing protection redundancy, safety reliability, and control predictability during operation.

[0320] The locking drive module 26 interacts with the control unit (PLC or equivalent industrial controller) via its configured status detection unit 265. The signal interface uses a 24 VDC PNP / NPN digital input, with key channels preferably using a normally closed (NC) configuration to achieve a self-check function in case of disconnection, thereby improving the system's functional safety level and fault diagnosis capability. Firstly, in the pneumatic implementation, the locking drive module 26 requires a clean, dry compressed air source, and a pressure reducing valve and a throttle valve are configured in the air circuit to ensure the stability, response accuracy, and service life of the executed actions. A triple unit (filter-pressure reducing-oil mist lubricator) can also be optionally configured to improve air source quality and cylinder seal life. Secondly, in the electric implementation, the locking drive module 26 is powered by a dedicated power supply and a matching driver, achieving power supply and signal transmission through a standardized industrial electrical interface. Electrical connections use round plugs and shielded cables to ensure anti-interference capability and operational stability. If necessary, the module can also be configured with an origin sensor and end-position limit switches for the control unit to collect data and achieve closed-loop control. Through the above design, the locking drive module 26 can form a unified and reliable interface with the controller, air source or power supply, ensuring that the system has the characteristics of controllable action, monitorable status and high operational safety under different implementation methods.

[0321] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the locking drive module 26 and the relevant locking device and drive mechanism can be divided into two states: static working condition and dynamic working condition.

[0322] During the operation of the device, the locking drive module 26 participates in the motion control of both the unfolding and retraction phases. Firstly, during the unfolding phase, the retraction locking device 25 first performs the unlocking action, its pin moving upwards and exiting the locking hole, releasing the tail end geometric lock. Subsequently, the material shielding belt drive linear module 22 advances forward at a constant speed, driving the material shielding belt assembly 21. When the target part reaches the head end detection position, the locking position detection module 23 outputs a "head end in position" signal, which the control unit uses to authorize the head end action of the locking drive module 26. At this time, the locking drive module 26 outputs driving force, driving the unfolding locking device 24 pressure head downwards, completing the pressing and locking of the end of the material shielding belt assembly. Secondly, during the retraction phase, the material shielding belt drive linear module 22 reverses its direction, pulling the material shielding belt assembly back towards the tail end. When the target part enters the tail end detection area, the locking position detection module 23 outputs a "tail end in place" signal. The control unit then stops the movement of the drive linear module 22 and authorizes the tail end action of the locking drive module 26. At this time, 26 drives the pin of the retraction locking device 25 downwards into the locking hole, completing the tail end locking and positioning, and the feedback signal confirms that the system has entered the storage stationary state. Through the above control logic, the locking drive module 26 achieves sequential coordination and interlocking with the material shielding belt drive module 22, the locking position detection module 23, the unfolding locking device 24, and the retraction locking device 25, ensuring that the timing of the locking actions during the unfolding and retraction processes is reasonable, the state is reliable, and the operation is safe.

[0323] In the stationary state of the device, the locking drive module 26 maintains corresponding positions and status feedback according to different working conditions to ensure the safety and logical closure of the system. First, when the material shielding tape assembly 21 is in the unfolded covering state, the locking drive module 26 at the corresponding tail end remains in the unlocked open position; the output rod of the locking drive module 26 completely exits its working stroke and returns to the safe stopping position, thereby avoiding the running channel of the material shielding tape assembly 21 and ensuring that the unfolding and traction process is not mechanically interfered with. Second, when the material shielding tape assembly 21 is retracted to the tail end and stops, the locking drive module 26 at the tail end remains in the locked holding state; at this time, its pin is inserted into the lock hole and forms a geometric lock, realizing the rigid positioning of the tail end; the status detection unit 265 of the locking drive module 26 continuously feeds back a locking validity signal to the control unit. The signal serves as an interlock condition for the material shielding tape drive module 22. Before receiving a valid unlock confirmation, the material shielding tape drive module 22 is prohibited from starting or reversing, thereby avoiding malfunction. With the above-mentioned configuration in static working condition, the locking drive module 26 realizes channel avoidance and end rigid locking in the covered and retracted states, respectively, and relies on state feedback to realize interlock protection and false start prevention of the drive unit, thereby ensuring the safety and stability of the system in non-moving state.

[0324] Furthermore, the multifunctional storage system of the present invention, which integrates moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, includes a self-cleaning device 3 whose main components include a blowing device 31, a blowing position detection module 32, and a drive module 33; the following is a detailed description of each component:

[0325] Pulse jet device 31

[0326] The blowing device 31 mainly consists of a nozzle 311, an air pipe 312 and a bracket 313, and also includes guides, anti-collision components and soft limiting elastic components, which are used to improve the anti-collision capability and stroke buffering performance during operation.

[0327] The blowing device 31 is generally elongated or has a small frame structure. The nozzle 311 has a front diameter of φ3–φ8 mm. The air pipe 312 is a flexible, pressure-resistant pipe. The support 313 is preferably a bent metal plate or lightweight profile frame structure. The blowing device 31 has a compact appearance and small cross-sectional dimensions, allowing it to enter the narrow space inside the storage tank 4 without interference via the telescopic movement of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. The end of the nozzle 311 can be equipped with a conical guide head or an adjustable angle connector to adapt to the blowing needs of different areas at the bottom of the storage tank 4 and the outlet position, achieving higher cleaning coverage and adjustable airflow direction.

[0328] Nozzle 311

[0329] Nozzle 311 is used to direct compressed gas towards the surface of residual material at the bottom of the storage tank for effective purging. The nozzle 311 can be configured according to different cleaning needs. Firstly, a flat slit nozzle 311, with a long, narrow slit with a width of 0.2–0.6 mm and an effective spray width of 30–120 mm, has an internal flow-rectifying chamber and guide vanes, forming a near-fan-shaped or sheet-like high-speed airflow, suitable for uniform purging of large areas of residual material. Secondly, a conical-cylindrical solid jet nozzle 311, with a nozzle diameter of Ø1.0–3.0 mm and a spray angle of 15°–25°, is used to form a concentrated jet, suitable for localized, powerful cleaning. Thirdly, a multi-orifice array nozzle 311, with 3–9 micro-holes arranged in a straight or micro-arc array on a single housing, is suitable for achieving uniform coverage over a wide area. The nozzle 311 body is preferably a thin wedge-shaped or flat rectangular structure with a thickness of 3–8 mm and a 0.2–0.5 mm chamfer at the outlet edge to reduce airflow separation and jet whistling.

[0330] Trachea 312

[0331] The air pipe 312 is used to transmit compressed air from the external air supply system to the nozzle 311; it is preferably made of flexible pressure-resistant tubing (such as PA12 or PU material), with a nominal outer diameter of Ø6–10 mm. The end of the air pipe near the nozzle is provided with a 90° swivel joint and a bend sleeve to form a relaxation ring to accommodate the stroke changes of the blowing device 31 as it extends and retracts with the multi-stage sliding mechanism 11; a throttle valve, a check valve, and a solenoid valve can be connected in series at the front end of the pipe (the valves are preferably arranged in the follower drag chain or at the root of the sliding mechanism), and a quick-connect coupling is provided for easy disassembly and maintenance.

[0332] Mounting bracket 313

[0333] The bracket 313 is used to fix the material shielding belt drive module 22 to the side wall of the storage tank 4. The bracket 313 body is provided with an elongated hole structure for fine-tuning the position during installation. It is also equipped with a cable drag chain or air pipe guide channel to accommodate and guide the cable and air source pipeline, improving the reliability of the system wiring. The bracket 313 is used to fix the nozzle and air pipe to ensure that the spray direction is aligned with the residual material area at the bottom of the storage tank. The bracket 313 can be made of bent metal plate or profile frame structure. If necessary, guide sliders or limit buffer elements can be integrated on the bracket 313 to improve the installation rigidity and operational stability of the spraying device. A floating compensation unit is set between the pneumatic claw 222 and the slider. The floating compensation unit has a linear floating capability of ±12mm and an angular floating capability of ±12°. It can effectively absorb the small positional deviations caused by machining errors, assembly misalignment, or deformation under force at the end of the support shaft 213, avoid jamming caused by rigid interference, damage to the pneumatic claw 222, or off-center loading of the support shaft 213, and improve the clamping reliability and compliance of the system.

[0334] The blowing device 31 is fixedly connected to the end mounting surface of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 via its bracket 313. Specifically, the bracket 313 uses a "positioning pin + high-strength bolt" method to mate with the end reference surface of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. The mounting hole is designed as an elongated oval hole, allowing for fine adjustments of ±2 mm laterally and ±3 mm longitudinally to ensure accurate alignment of the nozzle 311's spray direction with the target area at the bottom of the storage tank 4. During operation, the blowing device 31 moves linearly with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, maintaining a constant relative position between the nozzle 311 and the bottom of the storage tank 4, thus achieving synchronous coverage of the spray path and the slag cleaning area. Through this arrangement, the blowing device 31 and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 form a stable, reliable, adjustable connection with high-precision alignment capabilities, ensuring structural rigidity during operation and improving the adaptability and reliability of the cleaning operation.

[0335] The blowing device 31 and the blowing position detection module 32 form a logical association for action confirmation and signal authorization. The blowing position detection module 32 is preferably located at the tail end or side wall area of ​​the storage cabinet 4, and is used to detect the extension position and end position of the blowing device 31 during the cleaning process. During operation, when the blowing device 31 moves to the preset tail position with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, the blowing position detection module 32 is triggered and collects the position signal. This signal is fed back to the control unit as the authorization condition for starting compressed gas injection. When the blowing stroke is completed and the end position is detected, the blowing position detection module 32 simultaneously outputs a stop blowing criterion. The control unit shuts off the air source and terminates the injection action accordingly. Through the above cooperation, the cleaning action of the blowing device 31 is based on the end position confirmation of the blowing position detection module 32 as the logical premise for triggering and termination, realizing the time-series closed-loop control and operational safety and reliability of the blowing process.

[0336] The relationship between the blowing device 31 and the storage tank 4 is such that the blowing device 31 is installed at the extended end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, and the spray direction of the nozzle 311 is adjusted to be aimed at the discharge port area at the bottom of the storage tank 4, for directional blowing of residual material in the discharge port area. In the working state, compressed air is delivered to the nozzle 311 through the air pipe 312 to form a high-speed jet. The jet is sprayed along the bottom plane of the storage tank 4 and the discharge port direction, pushing the residual material attached or accumulated at the bottom to the discharge port for discharge. The arrangement of the blowing device 31 ensures effective coverage of the airflow range and the bottom geometric area of ​​the storage tank 4, and through reasonable spray angle and flow control, achieves the dual effect of cleaning the discharge port and removing residual material at the bottom. Through the above configuration, the blowing device 31 and the storage tank 4 form a spatial alignment, airflow matching and functional complementarity, ensuring that the cleaning action is efficient and accurate and does not affect the storage tank structure and the tobacco material running channel.

[0337] The relationship between the blowing device 31 and the material cart 5 is that the blowing device 31 is installed at the extended end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, which is arranged in the upper running channel of the storage tank 4 along with the material cart 5. When the material cart 5 moves longitudinally along the upper part of the storage tank 4, it drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 to change position along the length of the storage tank 4, thereby causing the blowing device 31 to move synchronously. During the cleaning process, the blowing device 31 can not only enter the storage tank with the extension and retraction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, but also move across areas with the longitudinal movement of the material cart 5, thus forming a dynamic blowing path that covers the entire bottom of the storage tank 4. This ensures that the blowing airflow can cover the bottom area of ​​the entire length of the storage tank, effectively improving the efficiency of residual material removal and avoiding local accumulation or cleaning blind spots. Through the above cooperation, the blowing device 31 and the material cart 5 form a synergistic relationship combining longitudinal migration and local extension and retraction, realizing full coverage and high-efficiency cleaning of residual materials inside the storage tank 4.

[0338] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the blowing device 31 and the related locking device and drive mechanism can be divided into two states: static working condition and dynamic working condition.

[0339] In non-cleaning operation mode, the blowing device 31 retracts to its docking position above the storage tank 4 along with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11. At this time, the nozzle 311 is in the closed state, the solenoid valve of the air supply system is closed, and the air source passage remains cut off, ensuring that the jet airflow is completely interrupted. At the same time, the blowing position detection module 32 monitors the retraction status of the nozzle 311 and outputs a retraction position signal; the retraction position signal serves as an interlock condition for system control, preventing the blowing device from accidentally spraying when it is not retracted, thereby avoiding interference with the material handling process or causing energy waste. Through the above design, the blowing device 31 achieves safe docking, air source cutoff, and interlock confirmation in static conditions, ensuring the operational safety and system compatibility of the blowing device 31 in non-operating states.

[0340] During the cleaning operation, drive module 33 drives the blowing device 31 to extend downwards from its stationary position until the nozzle 311 reaches the preset working position at the bottom of the storage tank 4. After the blowing position detection module 32 confirms that the extension stroke is complete, the control unit issues a command to open the solenoid valve. Compressed gas is delivered to the nozzle 311 through the air pipe 312 and ejected in the form of a high-speed jet, forming a directional airflow field. During the airflow jetting process, the blowing device 31 moves synchronously along the length of the storage tank along the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 driven by the material cart 5. The nozzle 311 blows the surface of the material layer at the bottom of the storage tank segment by segment during the lateral movement, pushing the residual material to the tail end discharge port, achieving full coverage cleaning of the bottom area. When the cleaning stroke is completed, the control unit closes the solenoid valve, cuts off the air supply, and the nozzle jetting action stops. Subsequently, drive module 33 drives the blowing device 31 to retract to the parking position above the storage tank 4 along with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, completing one cleaning cycle. Through the above-mentioned motion conditions, the jetting device 31 realizes the complete operation process of "extend-detection-jetting-recovery", and has the operating characteristics of controlled stroke, directional jetting, comprehensive coverage and avoidance during recovery, ensuring efficient removal of residual material residue at the bottom of the storage tank and safe and reliable system operation.

[0341] 32-point jetting detection module

[0342] The blowing position detection module 32 is used to detect whether the blowing device 31 has been accurately extended to the predetermined working position, and to feed back the position information to the control unit as the authorization condition for the blowing action and the criterion for stopping the blowing.

[0343] The structure of the spray positioning detection module 32 mainly consists of a position sensor, a signal processing unit, and a protective housing. The position sensor of the spray positioning detection module 32 can be a magnetic proximity switch, a photoelectric sensor, or a laser displacement sensor, used to sense the positioning status of the extended end of the spray device 31. The signal processing unit is used to shape, filter, and determine the validity of the sensor output signal, and convert it into a standard digital signal for transmission to the control unit. The housing of the spray positioning detection module 32 is made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel, possessing wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and impact resistance, ensuring the module maintains stability and reliability under long-term operation and complex working conditions.

[0344] The shape of the spraying position detection module 32 is that the sensor body has a rectangular or square box-shaped structure, which can be adapted to different specifications of storage cabinet 4; its mounting surface is machined with standardized bolt holes or oblong holes, which facilitates positioning installation or fine adjustment; the spraying position detection module 32 is preferably arranged on the side wall or tail end area of ​​the storage cabinet 4, corresponding to the end position of the spraying device 31.

[0345] The position of the spraying position detection module 32 is installed on the side wall or tail end area of ​​the storage cabinet 4, and the specific position corresponds to the end position of the extended end of the spraying device 31, so as to accurately detect the position status of the spraying device 31.

[0346] The spraying position detection module 32 works in conjunction with the spraying device 31 and the control unit to ensure the precise positioning of the spraying device 31 and the accurate judgment of its operating status. The spraying position detection module 32, through a position sensor and in cooperation with the movable parts of the spraying device 31 (such as the bracket or guide rail of the spraying device 31), detects whether the spraying device has reached the preset target position. The digital signal output by the spraying position detection module 32 is connected to the control unit via a cable. The control unit determines whether the spraying device is in position based on the feedback signal and controls the start and stop of the spraying operation accordingly.

[0347] Furthermore, during the operation of this invention, the working conditions between the spray positioning detection module 32 and the relevant locking device and drive mechanism can be divided into two states: static working condition and dynamic working condition.

[0348] In a stationary state, the spraying position detection module 32 is used to detect whether the spraying device 31 has been fully retracted or maintained in the initial position; if the spraying device is stationary, the sensor will send a non-position signal until the spraying device 31 reaches the preset position; at this time, the control system decides whether to start the spraying operation based on the feedback signal.

[0349] During the operation of the blowing device 31, the blowing position detection module 32 monitors its movement status in real time. When the blowing device 31 approaches the target position, the sensor senses the change in the position of the blowing device and promptly sends a signal to the control system to confirm whether it has reached the target position. If it has reached the target position, the control system initiates the blowing operation based on the detection signal to perform the cleaning work. The blowing position detection module 32 ensures that the blowing device 31 accurately reaches the predetermined position by monitoring the movement status of the blowing device 31 in real time. When the blowing device 31 reaches the target position, the sensor sends a position signal, and the control unit determines whether to start the blowing operation based on this signal to ensure the smooth progress of the blowing process. From the position detection perspective, the sensor senses the displacement of the blowing device in real time to ensure that it reaches the predetermined working position; this position signal serves as the authorization condition for the blowing action, and the system will only start the blowing operation after the blowing device 31 has accurately reached the target position. From the feedback signal perspective, through the signal processing unit, the sensor's detection results are converted into standardized digital signals and fed back to the control system, which determines whether to start or stop the blowing action. Regarding the stop-blowing criteria, during the blowing operation, the blowing position detection module 32 is also used to provide the stop-blowing criteria. That is, by monitoring the status of the blowing device 31 in real time, when the blowing device 31 moves out of the working position, the signal processing unit will send a stop signal, and the control system will stop the blowing operation according to this signal.

[0350] Driver Module 3 33

[0351] The drive module 33 is mainly used to drive the extension and retraction of the spraying device 31, enabling the spraying device 31 to perform cleaning operations within the storage cabinet 4. The structure of the drive module 33 includes a drive motor or cylinder, a linear transmission mechanism, and transmission control components. The drive module 33 uses a linear motor, cylinder, or electric actuator as the drive source; the linear motor provides smooth linear motion, while the cylinder is suitable for providing large thrust extension and retraction. The choice of drive method depends on the thrust requirements, motion accuracy, and control method of the application. The electric actuator uses a stepper motor or servo motor in conjunction with a ball screw or belt drive to provide precise control. The cylinder uses a double-acting cylinder or a single-acting cylinder (with spring return) to provide push and pull motion. The drive module 33 has an internal linear transmission device, such as a ball screw, synchronous belt, or chain, which converts the rotational motion of the drive motor into linear displacement. The transmission mechanism ensures smooth, low-friction motion through a bearing or slider system. The housing of the drive module 33 is made of aluminum alloy or stainless steel, which has high strength, corrosion resistance and impact resistance, ensuring reliable operation in harsh industrial environments; the bracket 313 is used to fix the drive module 33 to the bottom of the head end of the multi-stage slide mechanism 11 to ensure stability and precise control of the movement of the jetting device 31.

[0352] The fixed connection structure between the drive module 33 and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 is as follows: the drive module 33 is installed in the bottom area of ​​the head end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11, and is rigidly fixed to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism 11 through mechanical connection elements such as support base, slide rail assemb...

Claims

1. A multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, characterized in that, The main components of the multi-functional storage system include a variable height material device (1), an automatic covering device (2), a self-cleaning device (3), a storage cabinet (4), and a material cart (5). The variable height material device (1) is generally flat and slender, with rounded front corners and a straight surface, forming a sliding platform outline along the length of the storage tank. During operation, the variable height material device (1) extends in the X direction to form a discharge surface and achieves variable height in the Z direction. The variable height material device (1) is a flat and slender upper sliding platform mechanism, which is rigidly installed with the material cart (5) in an upper-lower-layer stacked manner, and reciprocates along the top guide rail of the storage tank body (4) with the material cart (5). The variable height material device (1) does not directly connect with the storage tank body (4). When the device is in operation, the sliding plate extends into the working area inside the cabinet and retracts to a safe position inside the outer contour of the material cart (5) when it is in standby mode. The mechanical body of the variable height material device (1) is a multi-level sliding plate mechanism (11), the transmission core is a drive module (13), and the measurement reference is provided by the material position detection module (12). The multi-level sliding plate mechanism (11), the material position detection module (12), and the drive module (13) together form a closed loop of adaptive height adjustment of the unloading port with the material level, segmented unloading and energy limiting under the reference system of the storage cabinet (4) and the material cart (5). The automatic covering device (2) is generally a long strip-shaped upper structure arranged along the length of the storage tank. The exposed drive box and locking seat are arranged in a rectangular block. The automatic covering device (2) is fixed above the storage tank body (4) and arranged along the length of the tank. The material covering tape assembly (21) is a folded flexible tape that forms a flat covering surface after unfolding. The width of the material covering tape assembly (21) is greater than the opening width of the top of the storage tank body (4), and a rectangular reinforcing beam is set at the end to ensure uniform force distribution and tear resistance. The material covering tape drive module (22) is installed on the retractable end side wall of the storage tank body (4), and has a support shaft (213) and a power transmission mechanism inside. The material covering tape can be unfolded and folded back. The locking position detection module 23 is arranged at the front end of the storage tank body (4) to monitor the unfolding or retraction status of the material covering tape in real time. The retraction locking device (25) is arranged near the end of the drum to ensure stable locking after the material covering tape is retracted. The stop drive module (26) is used to drive the opening and closing actions of the unfolding locking device (24) and the retraction locking device (25) to achieve unlocking and pressing; the unfolding locking device (24) is installed on the front top of the storage cabinet (4) to fix the end and achieve head end sealing, and the locking position detection module 23 is located at the opposite end, responsible for pressing and fixing the end after the covering strip is fully unfolded, so as to form a reliable seal with the storage cabinet (4) and determine whether the unfolding or retraction is in place; the retraction locking device (25) can perform mechanical locking in the retraction state at the end near the support shaft (213); the covering strip of the automatic covering device (2) is a louvered strip, which unfolds and retracts parallel to the top of the cabinet in the guide grooves on both sides, and becomes a flat strip-shaped covering surface after unfolding; the non-drive end of the automatic covering device (2) is provided with a rectangular end reinforcing beam, which is connected to the top hook seat of the material cart (5) through the end reinforcing beam, and the low-speed linear motion of the material cart (5) is used to complete the covering or retraction in coordination. The self-cleaning device (3) has a long and thin strip-shaped shell with a rounded rectangular cross-section and a flat bottom surface. The bottom surface is equipped with a sweeping and blowing opening with continuous gaps or equidistant nozzles. The self-cleaning device (3) has a certain forward tilt angle relative to the horizontal plane. The two ends of the self-cleaning device (3) are provided with rounded guide heads or small rollers, which have a rounded transition or small diameter roller shape. The front end of the self-cleaning device (3) forms an integrated installation interface area, which is a partial rectangular block and is connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11). The rear upper side of the self-cleaning device (3) is provided with a raised interface area and a protective chamfer on the outer surface. The overall outline of the self-cleaning device (3) is smooth, which is suitable for reciprocating along the length direction inside the storage cabinet (4) and completing the bottom sweeping and blowing cleaning. Clean; The self-cleaning device (3) consists of a blower (31), a blower positioning detection module (32), and a drive module (33) working together to form a closed-loop operation relationship for blower operation. The blower (31) is the core execution component, responsible for spraying compressed air into the bottom of the storage cabinet (4) through the nozzle (311) to remove residual materials. The drive module (33) is a power execution unit, connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11), which drives the blower (31) to extend and retract vertically and maintain a constant working gap with the bottom of the cabinet. At the same time, it moves along the length of the cabinet with the material cart (5) to achieve full coverage cleaning. The blower positioning detection module (32) is a position confirmation and signal triggering unit, used to detect the blower positioning of the blower (31) and output a signal as the logical basis for shutting off the air source. The storage tank (4) is an integrated box-type load-bearing structure with an open top and arranged along its length. It consists of a bottom plate on the inner surface of the cabinet bottom, left and right side plates, head and tail end plates, top flange, load-bearing beam and guide seat, circumferential reinforcing ribs and column frame, internal cavity guide and limiting strip, and maintenance opening and sensor mounting plate, providing support, guidance and installation position; among them, the bottom plate on the inner surface of the storage tank (4) serves as the main load-bearing surface; the left and right side plates, head and tail end plates together form a closed cavity with the bottom plate, and the tail end is integrally formed with a discharge port and reinforcing ring to ensure the strength and rigidity of the discharge area; the storage tank The top flange of the cabinet (4) is arranged around the top opening, serving as both the sealing overlap edge of the automatic covering device (2) and the load-bearing interface for the locking mechanism; the load-bearing beam and guide seat of the storage cabinet (4) are set on both sides of the top opening to support the walking track of the material cart (5) and to configure the limiting device; the circumferential reinforcing ribs and column frame are distributed on the outer wall and corner of the cabinet; the inner cavity of the storage cabinet (4) is provided with flow guide and limiting strips to guide the direction of material movement and limit the stacking height; the side wall of the storage cabinet (4) is reserved with maintenance openings and sensor mounting plates to accommodate the requirements of drive, locking and detection modules; The material cart (5) is a low-profile, long, rectangular platform cart with a low profile and a central center of gravity. The front end is the discharge end, and wheel sets or sliders are arranged below. The lower part of the cart body is equipped with a multi-level sliding plate mechanism mounting surface and a shielding hook seat. The sides are equipped with maintenance openings and protective edges, and the outer corners are rounded to ensure the stability and adaptability of the material cart (5) in the running channel above the storage cabinet (4). The material cart (5) is an upper-mounted linear walking platform structure, consisting of a cart frame, a walking mechanism, a walking drive unit, a position detection unit, an energy and pipeline system, an installation interface, and protective buffer components. The frame of the material cart (5) is made of welded box beams and cross braces to form a high-rigidity load-bearing skeleton. The top and bottom are respectively machined with mounting bases for the installation of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) and the traction and attachment of the material shielding belt. The walking mechanism of the material cart (5) adopts the method of sliding block and linear guide rail cooperation. The drive end is equipped with a servo motor and reducer or direct drive motor, and is supplemented with electromagnetic brake. The power is transmitted to the drive shaft through the coupling or synchronous belt. The position detection device of the material cart (5) consists of an absolute encoder and limit switches at both ends. Protective covers, buffer stops and anti-detachment mechanisms are set at the front and rear ends.

2. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The multi-level skateboard mechanism (11) consists of a multi-layer skateboard structure, which includes three layers of skateboards. Each layer of skateboard operates independently but is linked as a whole, and its height position is adjusted by telescopic movement. Each layer of skateboard has independent support elements and sliding elements to ensure the smooth movement and precise positioning of the skateboard. The multi-level sliding plate mechanism is installed at the bottom of the material cart (5), close to the discharge end, and can move and be positioned with the material cart (5) so as to directly adjust the material height and form the core system of material operation. The material cart (5) provides the basis for operation and movement, the material position detection module (12) provides real-time height information, and the drive module (13) performs the extension and retraction action. The multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) is driven by the first drive module (13) and automatically adjusts its extension and retraction state according to the material height information in the storage cabinet (4) fed back by the material position detection module (12) to control the material outlet height. The first drive module (13) is connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) through the connecting transmission component, receives the height signal transmitted by the material position detection module (12), and drives the sliding plate to extend and retract in a closed-loop control manner to realize the automatic adjustment of the material outlet height.

3. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The material position detection module (12) is generally long or narrow rectangular, and its size is set according to the height of the storage cabinet (4) and the sensing distance. The length of the material position detection module (12) can cover the entire height range of the storage cabinet (4) or at least cover the key height points of the storage cabinet (4). The material position detection module (12) is installed on the side of the storage cabinet (4), close to the moving path of the material vehicle (5) but does not move with the material vehicle (5), and the detection area of ​​the material position detection module (12) faces the internal material storage space of the storage cabinet (4). The material position detection module (12) and the drive module (13) form a closed-loop control. The detection signal is transmitted to the drive module (13), and the drive module (13) adjusts the extension and retraction state of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) accordingly. The material position detection module (12) includes a sensing unit, a signal processing unit, a fixed bracket and a protective cover. The sensing unit is used to measure the material stacking height inside the storage cabinet (4). The signal processing unit is used to convert the sensing signal into digital height data and communicate with the drive module (13). The fixed bracket and the protective cover are used to support and protect the sensing unit. The sensing unit of the material position detection module (12) is a laser rangefinder or multiple sets of through-beam photoelectric switches, which realizes continuous distance measurement and outputs real-time height data or discrete position measurement and outputs corresponding position information; the signal processing unit of the material position detection module (12) has an anti-interference design to avoid misjudgment caused by dust or light reflection.

4. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The drive module (13) consists of a servo motor or stepper motor, a coupling, a reducer, a transmission component, a controller unit, a fixed bracket, and a protective cover. The servo motor or stepper motor serves as the main power source, and the coupling is used to transmit the rotational motion of the motor output shaft to the transmission mechanism of the multi-stage slide mechanism (11). The fixed bracket and protective cover are used to support and protect the motor and the coupling. The controller unit can receive height data from the material position detection module (12) and adjust the output signal according to the sensing information to control the motor operation. The drive module is used to drive the extension and retraction of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) and to achieve automatic adjustment of the material outlet height by forming a closed-loop control with the material position detection module (12); the drive module (13) is a rectangular structure, including a motor body, coupling, reducer and fixed base, the base is a rectangular platform and installed below the material cart (5); the drive module (13) is installed in the center of the lower part of the material cart (5), coaxial or parallel with the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11), and located near the discharge end of the material cart (5). The drive module (13) is connected to the multi-level slide mechanism (11) through a linear module, and the linear extension and retraction of the slide is realized through the extension and retraction of the linear module; the drive module (13) and the material position detection module (12) form a closed-loop control, and the material position information is used as the basis for adjusting the extension and retraction of the slide; it is fixedly connected to the material cart (5) and moves along the storage cabinet (4) with the material cart (5) to realize material operation at different positions; the drive module (13) and the automatic covering device (2) work together synchronously to realize the function of covering the material and keeping it moist.

5. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The material shielding strip assembly (21) has a multi-layered folding or unfolding strip structure, which is arranged laterally along the width of the storage cabinet (4). When unfolded, it forms a planar strip that covers the top opening of the storage cabinet. When retracted, it is folded and arranged in the storage slot or close to one side. The material shielding strip assembly (21) is connected to the locking position detection module (23) to detect the position of the end of the cover curtain (212) or the support shaft (213) and to feed back a signal to the control system to trigger the locking action of the unfolding or retraction process. The material shielding strip assembly (21) is locked at the unfolding end and the retraction end by the unfolding locking device (24) and the retraction locking device (25) respectively. The locking device is driven by the locking drive module (26) to achieve double-end locking and sealing. The two sides of the material shielding strip assembly (21) are embedded in the guide grooves on both sides of the storage cabinet (4) and slide, and are laterally pressed and sealed by the sealing strip. The material shielding belt assembly (21) is interlocked with the variable height material device (1) and the self-cleaning device (3). The unfolding or retraction action can only be performed after the material and the cleaning device have returned to a safe position. The material covering assembly (21) includes guide wheels (211), a cover curtain (212), and a support shaft (213). The support shaft (213) runs across the width of the cover curtain (212), and guide wheels (211) are installed at both ends. The guide wheels (211) slide within the guide rail, driving the support shaft (213) and the cover curtain (212) to unfold or retract, thereby achieving automatic covering of the top opening of the storage cabinet (4). The guide wheels (211) are disc-shaped or columnar structures, installed at both ends of the support shaft (213), and can be installed within the U-shaped or C-shaped guide rail. Rolling guide; the guide wheel has a central shaft hole, which is interference-fitted or fitted to the end of the support shaft (213), and is equipped with an anti-loosening device to ensure that it does not fall off during operation; the cover curtain (212) is a rectangular or trapezoidal flexible sheet, the width of which matches the opening width of the storage cabinet (4), and the length is sufficient to cover the entire top opening area of ​​the storage cabinet; the support shaft (213) is a multi-straight rod structure, arranged parallel to the width direction of the cover curtain (212), and each support shaft (213) is fixedly connected to the cover curtain (212) by sewing, riveting or clamping. The material shielding belt assembly (21) is connected to the material shielding belt drive module (22) and is used to realize the unfolding and retraction of the cover curtain (212). Its driving mode includes rotary driving mode and linear push-pull driving mode. In the rotary driving mode, torque is applied to the support shaft (213) through a coupling, synchronous belt or chain to realize the winding or release of the cover curtain (212). In the linear push-pull driving mode, push-pull force is applied to both ends of the support shaft (213) through a linear module (221) and pneumatic claws (222) to realize the overall unfolding or retraction of the cover curtain (212). The material shielding belt assembly (21) can be in an unfolded or retracted state during operation. In the unfolded state, the control system first unlocks the unfolding locking device (24), drives the support shaft (213) to release the cover curtain (212), and when it reaches the end position, the locking position detection module (23) sends a feedback signal, and the unfolding locking device (24) closes and locks. In the retracted state, the retracting locking device (25) is first unlocked, drives the cover curtain (212) to retract, and when the retracted position signal is detected, the retracting locking device (25) closes and locks. The cover strip assembly (21) can be in a covered static state or a retracted static state under static conditions; when in the covered static state, both the unfolding locking device (24) and the retracting locking device (25) are closed and locked, and the edge of the cover curtain (212) is pressed and sealed in the guide rail; when in the retracted static state, the cover curtain (212) is folded up and locked by the retracting locking device (25).

6. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The material shielding belt drive module (22) is installed on the left and right sides of the storage cabinet (4), and forms a clamping connection with the two ends of the support shaft (213) of the material shielding belt assembly (21), respectively, for driving the unfolding and retraction of the cover curtain (212); the stroke range of the material shielding belt drive module (22) covers from the locking area corresponding to the retraction locking device (25) to the locking area corresponding to the unfolding locking device (24), controlling the drive of the entire unfolding and retraction interval; the material shielding belt drive module (22) cooperates with the locking position detection module (23), and triggers the detection module (23) to output a position signal when the end of the support shaft (213) or the cover curtain (212) reaches the predetermined position, for controlling the material shielding belt drive module (22) to stop the linear movement and trigger the locking drive module (26) to perform locking; The material shielding belt drive module (22) includes a linear module (221), a pneumatic gripper (222), a mounting bracket, and a floating compensation unit. The linear module (221) includes a fixed base, a guide rail and a slider pair, a transmission mechanism, and a drive unit. The linear module (221) is arranged laterally on the side wall of the storage cabinet (4), and is generally long and thin. The guide axis is arranged along the longitudinal direction of the storage cabinet (4) to generate linear driving force and drive the pneumatic gripper (222) to reciprocate. The transmission mechanism is a ball screw drive or a synchronous belt drive, and the drive unit is... A stepper motor or servo motor is used, and limit switches or buffer devices are set at both ends of the stroke to realize displacement control and limit protection; the pneumatic gripper (222) is rectangular in shape, and the clamping direction is set coaxially with the support shaft (213) to ensure the symmetry of the clamping operation and the synchronization of the action; the pneumatic gripper (222) is a parallel or three-finger parallel opening and closing structure, and the clamping surface is provided with a wear-resistant high friction pad to clamp the end of the support shaft (213) and prevent slippage, and is fixed to the slider end face of the linear module (221) by the mounting flange, and moves synchronously with the slider; The material shielding belt drive module (22) has an unfolding mode and a retracting mode under the motion condition. In the unfolding mode, the retracting locking device (25) is released first, the pneumatic claw (222) clamps the support shaft (213), the linear module (221) drives the slider to move towards the head end, triggers the head end locking position detection module (23) and stops the movement, and the end is locked by the unfolding locking device (24). In the retracting mode, the unfolding locking device (24) is released first, the claw clamps the support shaft (213), the linear module (221) drives the slider to pull back, triggers the tail end locking position detection module (23) and stops the movement, and the end is locked by the retracting locking device (25). The material shielding belt drive module (22) has a covering static mode and a retracting static mode under static conditions. In the covering static mode, the pneumatic claw (222) is released or maintains a micro-clamping state, the linear module (221) slider stops outside the head locking area, and is locked at both ends by the unfolding locking device (24) and the retracting locking device (25). In the retracting static mode, the linear module (221) slider retracts to the tail end origin, the pneumatic claw (222) is released or lightly clamped, and the end of the support shaft (213) is rigidly locked by the retracting locking device (25).

7. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The locking position detection module (23) is installed on the inner side wall of the storage cabinet (4) and close to the upper opening. The detection element is arranged along the running direction of the cover curtain (212) or the support shaft (213), and its sensing area avoids the guide reversal or sharp corner area. The locking position detection module (23) is set at the head end and tail end of the device to confirm the unfolded and retracted state of the shielding belt assembly (21) respectively. Each end is equipped with a detection unit and can be redundantly configured. The locking position detection module (23) includes a positioning detection unit, a target component, an installation adjustment component, and an electrical connector. The positioning detection unit is any one of a mechanical limit switch, an inductive proximity switch, a magnetic induction switch, or a photoelectric sensor, which detects when the end of the material shielding tape assembly (21) reaches a predetermined position. The target component is set at the front edge of the cover curtain (212) or the end of the support shaft (213), and is aligned with the sensing axis of the positioning detection unit. The installation adjustment component is used to fix the positioning detection unit and achieve fine-tuning of its position, including an L-shaped bracket with a long slot, a scale positioning ruler, and a quick-locking clamp, which can assist the positioning detection unit in making slight adjustments in the longitudinal, lateral, and pitch directions. The electrical connector outputs the detection signal to the control unit. When the target component reaches the predetermined end position, the locking position detection module (23) outputs a positioning signal, which serves as a prerequisite for the material shielding tape drive module (22) to stop running and for the locking drive module (26) to perform an action. After the arrival signal is verified by the control unit, it is used to trigger the execution of the stop and lock drive module (26) of the material shielding belt drive module (22), and to implement start-stop and disable and reverse operation prohibition of the material shielding belt drive module (22) when no valid arrival confirmation is obtained; wherein, the locking position detection module (23) establishes a two-way interlock relationship with the unfolding locking device (24), the retracting locking device (25) and the locking drive module (26) to ensure that the timing of the end position positioning and locking process is controllable; and, the locking position detection module (23) establishes a cycle interlock relationship with the variable height material device (1) and the self-cleaning device (3). The control unit only accepts the arrival signal for state switching and subsequent locking process triggering after detecting that the two devices are in the original position and meet the process sequence requirements.

8. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The unfolding locking device (24) includes a mounting plate (241), a locking drive module (242), and a pin (243). The locking drive module (242) is fixedly installed above the end of the side wall of the storage cabinet (4) and connected to the pin (243) through the mounting plate (241). It drives the pin (243) to move vertically so that when the material shielding tape assembly (21) is unfolded into place, the pin (243) is inserted into the lock hole to achieve end locking, or the pin (243) is driven out of the lock hole in the unlocked state to complete unlocking. The pressing center elevation of the unfolding locking device (24) is basically consistent with the axis of the support shaft (213), and one set is symmetrically set on the left and right sides. The front end of the pressure head of the unfolding locking device (24) is provided with a guide chamfer or rounded corner; the pin (243) forms a self-locking structure through an eccentric cam or a double crank mechanism, which can achieve mechanical self-holding when it moves to the over-center position, and can maintain the locking state even if the locking drive module (242) stops outputting; the mounting interface seat of the unfolding locking device (24) adopts a single hole design to compensate for assembly tolerances and ensure the alignment accuracy between the pressure head and the end of the support shaft (213); the unfolding locking device (24) and the material cover The components (21) are pressed together by a pressure head to form a surface contact. A sealing strip (245) is provided on the outside of the pressure head and forms a line contact seal with the upper sealing seat of the storage tank body (4) to perform locking and sealing in one piece. The unfolding locking device (24) is fixed to the storage tank body (4) by high-strength bolts and reinforcing plates. The contact surface is equipped with positioning pins and anti-loosening parts to improve fatigue resistance and anti-loosening ability. The pressing surface cooperates with the sealing seat at the opening of the storage tank body (4) to form a continuous line contact sealing interface in the locked state. A closed-loop control relationship is established between the unfolding locking device (24) and the locking position detection module (23). The locking position detection module (23) outputs a signal after detecting that the target part is in place, which serves as a prerequisite authorization condition for the unfolding locking device (24) to perform pressing or unlocking. The unfolding locking device (24) is equipped with a status detection switch to provide feedback on the locking or unlocking status. An interlock logic is established between the unfolding locking device (24) and the shielding tape driving module (22). Before receiving a valid unlocking signal from the unfolding locking device (24), the shielding tape driving module (22) is enabled to start / stop and disable and reverse operation is prohibited.

9. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The retraction locking device (25) includes a mounting plate (251), a locking drive module (252), a pin (253), and a lock hole; the mounting plate (251) is fixed to the rear end area of ​​the storage cabinet (4) and is provided with a positioning pin hole and a slotted hole for assembly positioning and centering adjustment; the locking drive module (252) drives the pin (253) to insert or withdraw from the lock hole in the vertical direction to achieve geometric locking or unlocking of the end or tail end of the support shaft (213) of the material shielding belt assembly (21); wherein, a set of the retraction locking device (25) is symmetrically set on the left and right sides of the storage cabinet (4), and the working center elevation of its pin (253) is basically consistent with the axis of the support shaft (213); The front end of the pin (253) is provided with a guide chamfer or rounded corner transition, and the lock hole inlet is machined with a flared mouth and fitted with a guide bushing; the locking drive module (252) and the pin (253) are rigidly connected by a direct connection, which is achieved through a threaded joint or fork ear structure. The connection part is provided with an anti-rotation structure and anti-loosening measures, and the guide bushing provides axial guidance; the retraction locking device (25) includes a stroke limiter or buffer and a position detection component, which can avoid impact damage to the end of the pin (253). The position detection component can detect the locking or unlocking status; the mounting plate (251) is fixed to the storage cabinet body (4) by high-strength bolts and a reinforcing plate, and is provided with a positioning pin, an anti-loosening component and a backlash pad to ensure rigid fixation and centering stability under cyclic load and vibration conditions; During the retraction process, when the locking position detection module (23) detects the tail end arrival signal, the control unit stops the operation of the shielding belt drive module (22) and instructs the locking drive module (26) to actuate, so that the pin (253) enters the lock hole at the end of the support shaft (213) along the axial direction, thereby completing the geometric locking and rigid positioning of the tail end. The retraction locking device (25) and the locking position detection module (23) establish a signal link and closed-loop control relationship. The tail end of the locking position detection module (23) is in position as a prerequisite authorization condition for the retraction locking action. The retraction locking device (25) is equipped with an auxiliary detection switch for feedback of locking or unlocking status. An interlock relationship is established between the retraction locking device (25) and the material shielding belt drive module (22). The control unit allows the material shielding belt drive module (22) to run only when a valid unlocking confirmation signal is detected; when no valid unlocking signal or locking confirmation signal is obtained, the control unit implements start / stop disabling and reverse operation prohibition on the material shielding belt drive module (22).

10. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The locking drive module (26) includes an execution unit, a guide and support unit, a connecting and coupling component, a mounting interface and reinforcing component, and a position and status detection component. The execution unit is a cylinder, electric cylinder, or linear module, employing a slide-table structure to achieve high repeatability and high guiding stiffness, providing linear driving force to drive the pin of the unfolding locking device (24) or the retracting locking device (25) to move downward or upward, realizing locking or unlocking actions. The guide and support unit can ensure the precise linear movement of the execution unit in the axial direction and withstand lateral forces and torques. The connecting and coupling component is rigidly connected to the unfolding locking device (24) or the retracting locking device (25), and provides... Provides slight angle compensation; the mounting interface and reinforcement include a mounting plate, a reinforcing plate and a slotted hole adjustment structure, and are fixed with high-strength bolts and positioning pins to fix the locking drive module (26) to the side wall of the storage cabinet (4), and achieve centering adjustment and rigid connection through the slotted hole and positioning pin; the position and status detection component can output a locking position signal or an unlocking position signal and feed it back to the control unit; the locking drive module (26) is directly connected to the unfolding locking device (24) or the retracting locking device (25) through the connecting and coupling (263), so that the linear stroke output by the execution unit (261) is directly converted into a pressing action or an unlocking action; A closed-loop signal relationship is established between the locking drive module (26) and the locking position detection module (23). The position signal of the locking position detection module (23) serves as the authorization condition for the locking drive module (26) to act, and the status feedback of the locking drive module (26) serves as the execution confirmation signal. An interlock logic is established between the locking drive module (26) and the material shielding belt drive module (22). The control unit allows the material shielding belt drive module (22) to run only when it detects the unlocking valid signal of the locking drive module (26). Otherwise, it implements start-stop disabling and reverse operation prohibition. The execution unit maintains the unlocked or locked position under static conditions and continuously outputs a status signal through the status detection device (265) as the criterion for the interlock control and false start protection of the material shielding belt drive module (22).

11. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The jetting device (31) includes a nozzle (311), an air pipe (312), and a bracket (313); the nozzle (311) is used to directionally jet compressed gas into the residual material area at the bottom of the storage tank (4); the air pipe (312) is connected to the nozzle (311) and is used to transport compressed gas from the external air supply system to the nozzle (311); the front end of the air pipe (312) is equipped with a throttle valve, a check valve, and a solenoid valve in series, and is arranged in the follower drag chain or at the root of the slide mechanism; the bracket (313) 3) The nozzle (311) and air pipe (312) are fixedly installed at the end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to achieve the alignment adjustment of the spray direction; the bracket (313) is provided with a slotted hole mounting structure and can integrate guide slider or limit buffer element; the end reference surface of the bracket (313) and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) is fixedly connected to the high-strength bolt through positioning pin; a floating compensation unit is provided between the bracket (313) and the pneumatic claw (222) to have linear floating capability and angular floating capability; The blowing device (31) enters or exits the storage tank (4) with the telescopic movement of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11), and uses the end position signal of the blowing position detection module (32) as the logical authorization condition for the gas injection to start and stop, so as to realize the directional cleaning of residual materials; the blowing position detection module (32) is set at the tail end or side wall of the storage tank (4) to detect whether the blowing device (31) has blown to the tail of the storage tank, so as to output the control signal for stopping the blowing; the blowing device (31) moves longitudinally with the material cart (5) in the running channel above the storage tank (4) to realize the full coverage blowing of the bottom area of ​​the storage tank (4); When the blowing device (31) is stationary, it retracts to the docking position above the storage cabinet (4), the solenoid valve closes and outputs a retraction signal; when cleaning, it is driven by the drive module three (33) to extend to the preset position, the control unit opens the solenoid valve to blow, and shuts off the air source and retracts the device after the stroke is completed.

12. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The spraying position detection module (32) includes a position sensor, a signal processing unit, and a protective housing. The position sensor is used to detect whether the spraying device (31) extends to the tail of the storage cabinet (4). The signal processing unit has a rectangular structure and the mounting surface of the housing has bolt holes or slotted holes for positioning installation or position fine adjustment, and converts it into a standard digital signal output to the control unit. The protective housing is used to encapsulate the position sensor and the signal processing unit. The signal processing unit converts the sensor detection results into a standardized digital signal and transmits it to the control unit through a cable, so that the control unit can determine whether the spraying device (31) has reached the correct position. The spraying position detection module (32) works in conjunction with the spraying device (31) to output a stop-blowing criterion signal for the spraying action, thereby realizing the timing control and safe operation of the spraying operation; the spraying position detection module (32) is installed in the rear area of ​​the side wall of the storage cabinet (4), corresponding to the end position of the stroke of the spraying device (31); the position sensor works in conjunction with the movable part of the spraying device (31) to detect whether the spraying device (31) has reached the target position.

13. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The drive module three (33) includes a drive source, a linear transmission mechanism, and a transmission control component; the drive source is selected from a linear module, a cylinder, or an electric actuator, and is used to provide the driving force required for the extension and retraction of the spraying device (31); the linear transmission mechanism is equipped with a bearing or a slider system, which can convert the rotational motion or push-pull motion of the drive source into the linear displacement of the spraying device (31), and the linear transmission mechanism includes at least one of a ball screw, a synchronous belt, or a chain; the transmission control component can control the start and stop of the drive source and the displacement amount, and form a feedback closed-loop control with the spraying position detection module (32); The drive module three (33) is installed at the end of the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) and connected to the spraying device (31) through a transmission connector to drive the spraying device (31) to reciprocate and extend within the storage cabinet (4); the drive module three (33) is fixedly connected to the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) through a support base, slide rail assembly or positioning pin, and the connection method is thread fastening, interference fit or pin positioning; The output end of the drive module three (33) is connected to the blowing device (31) through a transmission shaft assembly, linkage mechanism, ball joint, universal joint or coupling to ensure the transmission of driving force and flexible docking; the drive module three (33) is provided with a guide slider or limit device at the connection part with the blowing device (31) to suppress lateral displacement and improve the path accuracy of the cleaning operation; the drive module three (33) establishes a signal interaction relationship with the blowing position detection module (32), the blowing position detection module (32) is used to provide the blowing device (31) position and stop blowing criteria signal, and the drive module three (33) performs motion control adjustment according to the feedback signal; The drive module three (33) maintains a standby state when the device is stationary and the drive source does not output driving force; when the device is in motion, it drives the spraying device (31) to extend and retract along a preset trajectory and maintains real-time communication with the control system and the spraying position detection module (32) to ensure that the spraying action is only performed after the spraying device (31) is in position.

14. The multifunctional storage system integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The guide wheel (211) is preferably made of polymer material or stainless steel with a diameter of 20-60 mm and a thickness of 5-15 mm. Its outer diameter is slightly smaller than the inner width of the guide rail, leaving a gap of 0.5-2 mm. The spacing between each support shaft (213) is 50 to 300 mm, and the spacing tolerance is controlled within ±5 mm.

15. A material storage method integrating moisture retention, low breakage, and self-cleaning, characterized in that, The steps of the material storage method include: S1. Loading: When the storage tank (4) issues a loading request, the material cart (5) moves to the top of the storage tank (4), and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) in the variable height material device (1) arranged below it extends to near the bottom of the storage tank (4), and the material slides into the storage tank (4) through the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11). S2. Height detection and material recovery: The material position detection module (12) detects the height of the material inside the storage cabinet (4) and transmits the detection signal to the drive module (13). The drive module (13) drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to retract step by step until it is completely retracted to the original position. S3. Covering and unfolding: When the covering signal is received, the locking drive module (26) first drives the retracting locking device (25) to unlock, and the covering strip drive module (22) drives the covering strip assembly (21) to gradually extend towards the head end of the storage cabinet (4) until the locking position detection module (23) detects that the covering strip assembly (21) is in place; then the locking drive module (26) drives the unfolding locking device (24) pin to move down, locking one end of the covering strip assembly (21), and the material cart (5) drives the other end of the covering strip assembly (21) to move longitudinally along the storage cabinet (4) to realize the complete unfolding of the covering strip assembly (21), thereby realizing the top covering of the storage cabinet (4); S4. Cover retraction: When it is necessary to remove the cover, the material cart (5) moves the other end of the cover belt assembly (21) towards the head end of the storage cabinet (4) until it is completely retracted; the locking position detection module (23) outputs a position signal, and the locking drive module (26) drives the pin of the unfolding locking device (24) to move upward, releasing the head end lock; then the cover belt drive module (22) drives the cover belt assembly (21) to retract further to the end of the material cart (5), and the locking drive module (26) drives the pin of the retraction locking device (25) to move downward, realizing the retraction and locking of the cover belt assembly (21); S5. Cleaning extension: When the storage tank (4) has finished discharging the material and it is necessary to clean the residual material residue, the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) in the variable height material device (1) extends out, and the drive module three (33) drives the spraying device (31) to extend to the bottom working position of the storage tank (4). S6. Blowing and cleaning: The blowing device (31) sprays compressed gas, and the material cart (5) drives the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) to move longitudinally along the storage tank (4). The blowing airflow gradually blows the residual material to the discharge port at the end of the storage tank (4). S7. Cleaning and retraction: When the blow-in detection module (32) detects that the blow-in device (31) has reached the correct position, the control unit shuts off the air source and the blow-in action stops; the drive module three (33) drives the blow-in device (31) to retract, and the multi-stage sliding plate mechanism (11) further retracts to the original position, completing the cleaning cycle.

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