Popcorn machine and control method, device and storage medium thereof

Abstract

The application provides a popcorn machine and a control method, device and storage medium thereof, and relates to the technical field of popcorn machines.The popcorn machine comprises a support assembly, a discharging assembly arranged on the support assembly, the discharging assembly comprising a discharging part, a weighing assembly arranged on the support assembly, the weighing assembly being spaced apart from the discharging part and opposite to the discharging part, and a height detection assembly arranged on the support assembly, the height detection assembly being used for detecting the height of a sold item on the side of the weighing assembly facing the discharging part.In the process of operation of the discharging assembly, in the case that the weight value weighed by the weighing assembly is greater than or equal to a target weight value, the discharging assembly is intermittently interrupted;in the case that the height value detected by the height detection assembly is greater than or equal to a target height value, the discharging assembly is stopped.The application provides a popcorn machine, which can improve the probability that the sold item discharged by the popcorn machine reaches a specific capacity of a cup barrel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of popcorn machine technology, and more specifically, to a popcorn machine and its control method, apparatus and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] like Figure 1 As shown, in related technologies, the self-service popcorn machine 1' typically discharges popcorn by rotating the spiral scraper 125' driven by the discharge shaft 124', thereby scraping out the popcorn. The discharge volume of the self-service popcorn machine 1' is usually achieved by controlling the number of rotations of the discharge shaft 124'.

[0003] The dispensing component 12' of the self-service popcorn machine 1' typically consists of a serrated disc sheet metal part 127' mounted on one end of the dispensing shaft 124', and a U-shaped photoelectric sensor 128' mounted thereon. The photoelectric sensor is used to detect the number of rotations of the disc sheet metal part 127'. The disc sheet metal part 127' is fixed on the dispensing shaft 124', thereby detecting the number of rotations of the dispensing shaft 124'.

[0004] However, since the popcorn inside the self-service popcorn machine 1' is randomly distributed, the amount of popcorn scraped out by the discharge shaft 124' in one rotation is also random. Furthermore, when the popcorn falls into the cup 2', some may scatter outside the cup 2', which results in the self-service popcorn machine 1' not being able to fill the cup 2' completely each time it discharges, affecting the user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention aims to at least solve the technical problem that the probability of popcorn machines discharging items that reach a specific capacity of the cup or bucket is low, which exists in the prior art or related technologies.

[0006] The first aspect of the present invention provides a popcorn machine.

[0007] A second aspect of the present invention provides a control method for a popcorn machine.

[0008] A third aspect of the present invention provides a control device for a popcorn machine.

[0009] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a storage medium.

[0010] The fifth aspect of the present invention provides a popcorn machine.

[0011] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a popcorn machine, comprising: a support assembly; a discharging assembly disposed on the support assembly, the discharging assembly including a discharging section; a weighing assembly disposed on the support assembly, the weighing assembly and the discharging section being spaced apart and facing each other; and a height detection assembly disposed on the support assembly, the height detection assembly being used to detect the height of the items to be sold on the side of the weighing assembly facing the discharging section; wherein, during the operation of the discharging assembly, if the weight value weighed by the weighing assembly is greater than or equal to a target weight value, the discharging assembly intermittently interrupts operation; if the height value detected by the height detection assembly is greater than or equal to a target height value, the discharging assembly stops operation.

[0012] This invention provides a popcorn machine, including a support assembly, a discharging assembly, a weighing assembly, and a height detection assembly. The discharging assembly, weighing assembly, and height detection assembly are all fixed to the support assembly. The discharging assembly includes a discharging section through which the popcorn is discharged. The weighing assembly is located below the discharging section and is positioned opposite to it. After a cup is placed on the weighing assembly, the popcorn is discharged from the discharging section, and the popcorn is discharged into the cup. During the discharging process, the weighing assembly can detect the weight of the popcorn discharged by the discharging assembly, and the height detection assembly can detect the height of the popcorn on the side of the weighing assembly facing the discharging section.

[0013] In other words, the popcorn machine provided by this invention uses both weight and height detection to ensure that the items sold in the cup bucket reach the required height.

[0014] Specifically, during the operation of the discharging component, items are continuously discharged and sold through the discharging section. First, the weighing component weighs the items discharged from the discharging section. If the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, the discharging component operates in an intermittent interruption mode. During this time, the discharging section intermittently discharges and sells items. In this process, the height detection component detects the height to which the items discharged from the discharging section have been piled up. If the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharging component stops operating, and the popcorn machine completes this discharging operation.

[0015] In other words, the machine first uses a weighing component to detect the weight. Only when the weight of the items discharged by the dispensing component reaches the target weight value will the next step be initiated. This allows for rapid dispensing of items in the early stages, reducing the total dispensing time per batch. The dispensing component operates intermittently to reduce the possibility of excessive waste due to overflowing cups. Then, a height detection component detects the height of the items. Only when the height of the items reaches the target height value will the dispensing component stop operating. This ensures that the items in the cup reach the required height, achieving a specific capacity. Therefore, regardless of the size of the items or whether they fall out of the cup, the popcorn machine can consistently maintain the target height, increasing the probability that the dispensing volume reaches the specified capacity of the cup.

[0016] In some technical solutions, optionally, the height detection component includes a transmitter and a receiver; the support component includes a first fixing member and a second fixing member, the first fixing member and the second fixing member are respectively located on opposite sides of the weighing component, and the transmitter and the receiver are respectively disposed on the first fixing member and the second fixing member.

[0017] In this technical solution, the height detection component includes a transmitter and a receiver, and the support component includes a first fixing member and a second fixing member disposed on opposite sides of the weighing component, with the transmitter and receiver respectively disposed on the first fixing member and the second fixing member.

[0018] The transmitter can emit a beam of light or a signal, and the receiver can receive the beam of light or a signal. If the receiver receives the beam of light or a signal emitted by the transmitter, it means that there are no objects obstructing the connection between the transmitter and the receiver, indicating that the height of the item being sold has not yet reached the target height. If the receiver receives the beam of light or a signal emitted by the transmitter, it means that there are objects obstructing the connection between the transmitter and the receiver, indicating that the height of the item being sold has reached the target height.

[0019] By coordinating the transmitter and receiver, the height of the item being sold can be determined. This design is simple, highly reliable, and the target height can be adjusted by changing the positions of the transmitter and receiver.

[0020] In some technical solutions, optionally, the height detection component includes multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers, which are distributed along the direction from the discharge section to the weighing component, and each pair of transmitters and receivers is matched with a target height value.

[0021] In this technical solution, the height detection component includes multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers, which are distributed along the direction from the discharge section to the weighing component. Depending on the user's selection, a pair of transmitters and receivers can be used as the device for determining the target height value. This setting can provide multiple discharge volume options. For example, if small and large cups have different capacities, the target height value matching the cup capacity can be determined by selecting the transmitter and receiver.

[0022] In some technical solutions, optionally, along the direction from the discharge section to the weighing assembly, the transmitting end and the receiving end are alternately distributed on the side of the first fixing member facing the second fixing member, and the transmitting end and the receiving end are alternately distributed on the side of the second fixing member facing the first fixing member.

[0023] In this technical solution, along the direction from the discharge section to the weighing component, the transmitting end and the receiving end are alternately distributed on the side of the first fixing member facing the second fixing member. That is, two adjacent devices on the first fixing member are the transmitting end and the receiving end, respectively. The transmitting end and the receiving end are alternately distributed on the side of the second fixing member facing the first fixing member. That is, two adjacent devices on the second fixing member are the transmitting end and the receiving end, respectively. This makes each pair of transmitting ends and receiving ends staggered. Thus, when a pair of transmitting ends and receiving ends is determined, the light beam or signal emitted by other transmitting ends of the device adjacent to the receiving end will not be received by other receiving ends, reducing the possibility of the receiving end being falsely triggered and improving the accuracy of target height value detection.

[0024] In some technical solutions, the discharging assembly may optionally include: a discharging channel, with a discharging section located at one end of the discharging channel; a discharging structure located within the discharging channel; and a discharging motor located at the end of the discharging channel opposite to the discharging section. The discharging motor is used to drive the discharging structure to move so as to discharge the items for sale from the discharging section.

[0025] In this technical solution, the discharging assembly also includes a discharging channel, a discharging structure, and a discharging motor. The discharging channel can hold items for sale, and the discharging section is located at one end of the discharging channel. The discharging structure is set inside the discharging channel, and the discharging motor and the discharging structure are driven together. The discharging motor is used to drive the discharging structure to move, thereby conveying the items for sale to the discharging section and arranging them there. This design structure is simple, easy to manufacture, and highly reliable.

[0026] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a control method for a popcorn machine, applicable to the popcorn machine provided in the first aspect embodiment. The control method for the popcorn machine includes: controlling the discharging component to operate continuously in response to a first input; controlling the discharging component to intermittently interrupt operation when the weight value weighed by the weighing component is greater than or equal to a target weight value; and controlling the discharging component to stop operation when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to a target height value.

[0027] The popcorn machine control method provided by the present invention includes receiving a first input from a user, responding to the first input by controlling the dispensing component to operate continuously so that the items to be sold can be discharged quickly, detecting the weight of the items to be discharged by a weighing component, controlling the dispensing component to switch from continuous operation to intermittent interruption operation when the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, and controlling the dispensing component to stop operation when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, thus completing the current dispensing operation of the popcorn machine.

[0028] In other words, after the user makes the initial input, the popcorn machine first uses a weighing component to detect the weight. Only when the weight of the item discharged by the dispensing component reaches the target weight value will it proceed to the next step. This allows for rapid dispensing of items in the early stages, reducing the total dispensing time per cycle. The dispensing component operates intermittently to reduce the possibility of excessive dispensing and overflowing the cup, leading to waste. Next, a height detection component detects the height. Only when the height of the item reaches the target height value will the dispensing component stop operating. This ensures that the item in the cup reaches the required height, achieving a specific capacity. Therefore, regardless of the size of the item or whether it falls out of the cup, the popcorn machine can consistently maintain the target height, increasing the probability that the dispensing volume reaches the cup's specified capacity.

[0029] In some technical solutions, optionally, if the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharging component is controlled to stop operating, including: acquiring the detection result of the height detection component during each interruption of the discharging component's operation; and controlling the discharging component to stop operating if the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value.

[0030] In this technical solution, when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharging component is controlled to stop operating. This includes: during each interruption of the discharging component's operation, acquiring the detection result of the height detection component, thereby reducing the possibility of the height detection component being interfered with by falling items for sale, improving the accuracy of height detection of items for sale, and controlling the discharging component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, thus completing the discharging operation of the popcorn machine.

[0031] In some technical solutions, optionally, the detection results of the height detection component are acquired during each interruption of the operation of the discharge component, including: during the latter half of each interruption of the operation of the discharge component, the detection results of the height detection component are acquired.

[0032] In this technical solution, the detection results of the height detection component are obtained during each interruption of the discharging component's operation. This includes obtaining the detection results of the height detection component only during the latter half of the interruption period. This allows the detection results to be obtained only after the items have completely fallen, further reducing the impact of the items falling from the discharging component on the height detection component and improving the accuracy of height detection.

[0033] In some technical solutions, optionally, the height detection component includes multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers. Before controlling the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, it further includes: in response to a second input, determining the transmitters and receivers enabled by the height detection component to match the target height value.

[0034] In this technical solution, the height detection component includes multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers. Before controlling the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the component further includes: in response to the second input, determining the transmitters and receivers enabled by the height detection component to match the target height value for this discharge, thereby reducing the possibility of false detection by the height detection component.

[0035] Thirdly, the present invention provides a control device for a popcorn machine, applicable to the popcorn machine provided in the first aspect. The control device for the popcorn machine includes: a first control module for controlling the continuous operation of the discharging component in response to a first input; a second control module for controlling the discharging component to intermittently interrupt operation when the weight value weighed by the weighing component is greater than or equal to a target weight value; and a third control module for controlling the discharging component to stop operation when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to a target height value.

[0036] The control device for a popcorn machine provided by the present invention includes receiving a first input from a user, responding to the first input by controlling the dispensing component to operate continuously so that the items to be sold can be discharged quickly, detecting the weight of the items to be discharged by a weighing component, controlling the dispensing component to switch from continuous operation to intermittent interruption operation when the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, and controlling the dispensing component to stop operation when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, thus completing the current dispensing operation of the popcorn machine.

[0037] In other words, after the user makes the initial input, the popcorn machine first uses a weighing component to detect the weight. Only when the weight of the item discharged by the dispensing component reaches the target weight value will it proceed to the next step. This allows for rapid dispensing of items in the early stages, reducing the total dispensing time per cycle. The dispensing component operates intermittently to reduce the possibility of excessive dispensing and overflowing the cup, leading to waste. Next, a height detection component detects the height. Only when the height of the item reaches the target height value will the dispensing component stop operating. This ensures that the item in the cup reaches the required height, achieving a specific capacity. Therefore, regardless of the size of the item or whether it falls out of the cup, the popcorn machine can consistently maintain the target height, increasing the probability that the dispensing volume reaches the cup's specified capacity.

[0038] Fourthly, the present invention provides a storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the popcorn machine control method provided in the second aspect embodiment.

[0039] The storage medium provided by the present invention stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the popcorn machine control method provided in the second aspect embodiment. Therefore, it has all the beneficial effects of the steps of the popcorn machine control method provided in the second aspect embodiment, which will not be described in detail here.

[0040] Fifthly, the present invention provides a popcorn machine, comprising: a controller for executing a control method for a popcorn machine as provided in the second aspect embodiment; or a control device for a popcorn machine as provided in the third aspect embodiment; or a storage medium as provided in the fourth aspect embodiment.

[0041] The popcorn machine provided by the present invention includes a controller for performing the control method of the popcorn machine as provided in the second aspect embodiment; or includes a control device of the popcorn machine as provided in the third aspect embodiment; or includes a storage medium as provided in the fourth aspect embodiment. Therefore, it has all the beneficial effects of the control method of the popcorn machine as provided in the second aspect embodiment; or the control device of the popcorn machine as provided in the third aspect embodiment; or the storage medium as provided in the fourth aspect embodiment, which will not be described in detail here.

[0042] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0044] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a popcorn machine in a related technical solution is shown;

[0045] Figure 2 One schematic diagram of a popcorn machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 3 A second schematic diagram of a popcorn machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0047] Figure 4 A partial structural schematic diagram of the popcorn machine in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 5 A flowchart of the control method for a popcorn machine in an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0049] Figure 6 A structural block diagram of the control device for a popcorn machine in an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0050] in, Figure 1 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0051] 1' Self-service popcorn machine, 12' Discharge assembly, 124' Discharge shaft, 125' Spiral scraper, 127' Disc sheet metal part, 128' Photoelectric sensor, 2' Cup bucket;

[0052] in, Figures 2 to 4 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0053] 1. Popcorn machine; 11. Support assembly; 111. First fixing component; 112. Second fixing component; 113. Bracket; 114. Weighing bracket; 12. Discharge assembly; 121. Discharge section; 122. Discharge channel; 123. Discharge structure; 124. Discharge shaft; 125. Spiral scraper; 126. Discharge motor; 13. Weighing assembly; 131. Weighing scale; 132. Tray; 14. Height detection assembly; 141. Transmitter; 142. Receiver; 15. Bearing; 2. Cup / bucket. Detailed Implementation

[0054] To better understand the above aspects, features, and advantages of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0055] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein, and therefore the scope of protection of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0056] The following reference Figures 2 to 6 This describes a popcorn machine 1 and its control method, apparatus and storage medium provided according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0057] Firstly, such as Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the present invention provides a popcorn machine 1, which can be a self-service popcorn machine 1 or a regular popcorn machine 1. The popcorn machine 1 includes a support component 11, a discharge component 12, a weighing component 13 and a height detection component 14.

[0058] The discharging component 12, weighing component 13, and height detection component 14 are all mounted on the support component 11. The discharging component 12 includes a discharging section 121. The weighing component 13 and height detection component 14 are both located below the discharging section 121, allowing the items discharged from the discharging section 121 to fall directly onto the weighing component 13. Furthermore, the height detection component 14 can detect the height of the items discharged from the discharging section 121. The items sold can be popcorn.

[0059] During the operation of the discharge component 12, if the weight value weighed by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, the discharge component 12 will intermittently stop operating; if the height value detected by the height detection component 14 is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharge component 12 will stop operating.

[0060] This invention provides a popcorn machine 1, including a support assembly 11, a discharging assembly 12, a weighing assembly 13, and a height detection assembly 14. The discharging assembly 12, the weighing assembly 13, and the height detection assembly 14 are all fixed to the support assembly 11. The discharging assembly 12 includes a discharging section 121 through which the items to be sold are discharged. The weighing assembly 13 is located below the discharging section 121 and is arranged opposite to it. After a cup 2 is placed on the weighing assembly 13, when the discharging assembly 12 discharges popcorn, the items to be sold are discharged from the discharging section 121 and fall into the cup 2. During the discharging process of the discharging assembly 12, the weighing assembly 13 can detect the weight of the items to be sold discharged by the discharging assembly 12, and the height detection assembly 14 can detect the height of the items to be sold on the side of the weighing assembly facing the discharging section 121.

[0061] In other words, the popcorn machine 1 provided by the present invention uses both weight and height detection to ensure that the items sold in the cup bucket 2 reach the required height.

[0062] Specifically, during the operation of the discharging component 12, items are continuously discharged and sold through the discharging section 121. First, the weighing component 13 weighs the items discharged from the discharging section 121. If the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, the discharging component 12 operates intermittently. During this time, the discharging section 121 intermittently discharges and sells items. During this process, the height detection component 14 detects the height to which the items discharged from the discharging section 121 have piled up. If the height value detected by the height detection component 14 is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharging component 12 stops operating, and the popcorn machine 1 completes this discharging operation. A discharge port is provided at the bottom of the discharging section 121 for discharging and selling items.

[0063] In other words, the weight is first detected by the weighing component 13. Only when the weight of the items discharged by the dispensing component 12 reaches the target weight value will the next step be taken. This allows for rapid dispensing of items in the early stages, reducing the total dispensing time of the popcorn machine 1. The dispensing component 12 is then operated intermittently to reduce the possibility of excessive dispensing and overflowing of items into the cup hopper 2, leading to waste. Afterward, the height is detected by the height detection component 14. Only when the height of the items reaches the target height value will the dispensing component 12 be stopped. This ensures that the items in the cup hopper 2 reach the required height, i.e., that the items in the cup hopper 2 reach a specific capacity. Thus, regardless of the size of the items or whether they fall out of the cup hopper 2, the popcorn machine 1 can ensure that the height of the items in the cup hopper 2 reaches the target height value, thereby increasing the probability that the items discharged by the popcorn machine 1 reach the specific capacity of the cup hopper 2.

[0064] For example, a cup 2 can be placed on the weighing component 13 of the popcorn machine 1. After the discharge component discharges the items for sale through the discharge section, the items for sale can fall into the cup 2, thereby realizing the holding of the items for sale.

[0065] In other words, the user first places the cup bucket 2 on the weighing component 13, then inputs the first data into the popcorn machine 1. Afterwards, the dispensing component 12 of the popcorn machine 1 operates, dispensing the items into the cup bucket 2. During the operation of the dispensing component 12, the weighing component 13 first detects the weight of the cup bucket 2 and the items inside. When the weight of the items dispensed by the dispensing component 12 reaches the target weight value, the dispensing component 12 intermittently stops operating. Then, the height detection component 14 detects the height of the items in the cup bucket 2. When the height of the items in the cup bucket 2 reaches the target height value, the dispensing component 12 stops operating, the popcorn machine 1 completes this dispensing operation, and the user can remove the cup bucket 2.

[0066] For example, the target weight value could be slightly less than the weight of a full bucket, and this weight value could be estimated through experiments or other means.

[0067] The popcorn machine 1 provided by this invention can accurately detect whether each bucket of popcorn is full, thereby ensuring that each bucket is filled to the brim. While ensuring the buckets are full, it also considers the filling speed, improving sales efficiency and enhancing the user experience. It minimizes popcorn loss and waste caused by overflowing buckets, thus saving costs.

[0068] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the support assembly 11 includes a bracket 113, a first fixing member 111 and a second fixing member 112. The first fixing member 111 and the second fixing member 112 are connected to the bracket 113. The first fixing member 111 can extend along the direction BA from the weighing assembly 13 to the discharge section 121. The first fixing member 111 can also extend along the direction AB from the discharge section 121 to the weighing assembly 13. The second fixing member 112 can extend along the direction BA from the weighing assembly 13 to the discharge section 121. The second fixing member 112 can also extend along the direction AB from the discharge section 121 to the weighing assembly 13.

[0069] The height detection component 14 includes a transmitter 141 and a receiver 142. The transmitter 141 is fixed to one of the first fixing member 111 and the second fixing member 112, and the receiver 142 is fixed to the other of the first fixing member 111 and the second fixing member 112.

[0070] The transmitter 141 and receiver 142 are positioned opposite each other. The height and angle of the transmitter 141 and receiver 142 need to be controlled to keep them in a straight line. The light beam or signal emitted by the transmitter 141 cannot be blocked by the empty cup 2, the dispensing part 121 or other components. After the cup 2 is placed on the weighing assembly 13, the cup 2 will not block the light beam or signal emitted by the transmitter 141, so that the receiver 142 can receive the light beam or signal emitted by the transmitter 141. After the items for sale in the cup 2 reach the target height value, the receiver 142 will no longer receive the light beam or signal emitted by the transmitter 141.

[0071] The target height value can be understood as the height required when the cup 2 is full. The specific height can be changed by adjusting the height of the transmitter 141 and the receiver 142.

[0072] For example, if the full bucket weight is 350g, then 300g can be set as the target weight value. When 300g is reached, it is considered that the bucket is almost full. The operation and interruption time of intermittent interruption can be set according to the actual situation. For example, the dispensing component 12 can run for 200ms, interrupt operation for 1s, and execute in a loop. The above weight and time are just example values. The specific settings need to be based on the solid structure of the popcorn machine 1.

[0073] In this embodiment, the height detection component 14 includes a transmitter 141 and a receiver 142, and the support component 11 includes a first fixing member 111 and a second fixing member 112 disposed on opposite sides of the weighing component 13. The transmitter 141 and the receiver 142 are respectively disposed on the first fixing member 111 and the second fixing member 112.

[0074] The transmitter 141 can emit a light beam or signal, and the receiver 142 can receive the light beam or signal. If the receiver 142 receives the light beam or signal when the transmitter 141 emits the light beam or signal, it means that there is no object obstructing the distance between the transmitter 141 and the receiver 142, indicating that the height of the item currently being sold has not reached the target height value. If the receiver 142 receives the light beam or signal when the transmitter 141 emits the light beam or signal, and does not receive the light beam or signal, it means that there is an object obstructing the distance between the transmitter 141 and the receiver 142, indicating that the height of the item currently being sold has reached the target height value.

[0075] By cooperating with the transmitter 141 and the receiver 142, the height of the item being sold can be determined. This design is simple, highly reliable, and the target height can be adjusted by adjusting the positions of the transmitter 141 and the receiver 142.

[0076] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, there are multiple transmitters 141 and multiple receivers 142. Multiple transmitters 141 and multiple receivers 142 are paired one-to-one, that is, one transmitter 141 and one receiver 142 form a pair, and multiple transmitters 141 and multiple receivers 142 form multiple pairs. Multiple transmitters 141 and multiple receivers 142 are distributed along the direction AB from the material section to the weighing component, so that each pair of transmitters 141 and receivers 142 matches a target height value. Multiple transmitters 141 and multiple receivers 142 correspond to multiple target height values, so that multiple discharge specifications can be matched, and multiple sizes of cups 2 can also be matched.

[0077] In this embodiment, the height detection component 14 includes multiple pairs of transmitters 141 and receivers 142. The multiple pairs of transmitters 141 and receivers 142 are distributed along the direction AB from the discharge section 121 to the weighing component. Depending on the user's selection, a pair of transmitters 141 and receivers 142 can be used as a device to determine the target height value. Such a configuration can provide multiple discharge volume options. For example, if small cups and large cups have different capacities, the target height value matching the capacity of the cup 2 can be determined by selecting the transmitters 141 and receivers 142.

[0078] For example, the cup bucket 2 can have multiple sizes, each size of cup bucket 2 corresponding to a target height value, and by setting multiple pairs of transmitters 141 and receivers 142, the popcorn machine 1 can be matched with multiple cup buckets 2, so that the popcorn machine 1 can sell popcorn of multiple specifications.

[0079] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, on the first fixing member 111, the transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142 are alternately distributed along the direction AB from the discharge section 121 to the weighing component, and on the second fixing member 112, the transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142 are alternately distributed along the direction AB from the discharge section 121 to the weighing component, and the transmitting end 141 on the first fixing member 111 and the receiving end 142 on the second fixing member 112 are opposite to each other.

[0080] The transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142 on the first fixing member 111 are disposed on the side of the first fixing member 111 facing the second fixing member 112, and the transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142 on the second fixing member 112 are disposed on the side of the second fixing member 112 facing the first fixing member 111, so that the transmitting end 141 on the first fixing member 111 can be on the same straight line as the receiving end 142 on the second fixing member 112.

[0081] In this embodiment, along the direction AB from the discharge section 121 to the weighing component, the transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142 are alternately distributed on the side of the first fixing member 111 facing the second fixing member 112. That is, two adjacent devices on the first fixing member 111 are the transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142, respectively. The transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142 are alternately distributed on the side of the second fixing member 112 facing the first fixing member 111. That is, two adjacent devices on the second fixing member 112 are the transmitting end 141 and the receiving end 142, respectively. This makes each pair of transmitting ends 141 and receiving ends 142 misaligned. Thus, when a pair of transmitting ends 141 and receiving ends 142 is determined, the light beam or signal emitted by other transmitting ends 141 of the device adjacent to the receiving end 142 will not be received by other receiving ends 142, reducing the possibility of the receiving end 142 being falsely triggered and improving the accuracy of target height value detection.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the discharging assembly 12 further includes a discharging channel 122, a discharging structure 123, and a discharging motor 126. The discharging channel 122 can be directly fixed to the support assembly 11, and the discharging assembly 12 can also be indirectly fixed to the support assembly 11 through a storage assembly. The discharging part 121 is located at one end of the discharging channel 122, the discharging structure 123 is located inside the discharging channel 122, and the discharging motor 126 is located at one end of the discharging channel 122 away from the discharging part 121. The drive shaft of the discharging motor 126 is connected to the discharging structure 123 so as to discharge the items for sale from the discharging part 121. The discharging motor 126 can be fixed to the discharging channel 122, and the discharging motor 126 can also be fixed to the support assembly 11.

[0083] In this embodiment, the discharging assembly 12 further includes a discharging channel 122, a discharging structure 123, and a discharging motor 126. The discharging channel 122 can hold items for sale. The discharging part 121 is located at one end of the discharging channel 122. The discharging structure 123 is disposed in the discharging channel 122. The discharging motor 126 and the discharging structure 123 are drivenly connected. The discharging motor 126 is used to drive the discharging structure 123 to move, thereby conveying the items for sale to the discharging part 121 and arranging them by the discharging part 121. This design structure is simple, easy to manufacture, and has high reliability.

[0084] For example, the discharge structure 123 includes a discharge shaft 124 and a spiral scraper 125. The discharge shaft 124 is disposed in the discharge channel 122. One end of the discharge shaft 124 is connected to the drive shaft of the discharge motor 126, and the other end of the discharge shaft 124 is connected to the discharge channel 122 through a bearing 15. The spiral scraper 125 is disposed on the periphery of the discharge shaft 124. The spiral scraper 125 and the discharge shaft 124 rotate synchronously. The discharge motor 126 is located at one end of the discharge channel 122 away from the discharge section 121. The discharge motor 126 is used to drive the discharge shaft 124 to rotate so that the spiral scraper 125 discharges the items for sale from the discharge section 121. The discharge motor 126 can be fixed to the discharge channel 122 and can also be fixed to the support assembly 11.

[0085] In this embodiment, the discharge assembly 12 further includes a discharge channel 122, a discharge shaft 124, a spiral scraper 125, and a discharge motor 126. The discharge channel 122 can hold items for sale. The discharge section 121 is located at one end of the discharge channel 122. The discharge shaft 124 is disposed in the discharge channel 122. The discharge motor 126 is driven to drive the discharge shaft 124 to rotate. The spiral scraper 125 is disposed on the outer periphery of the discharge shaft 124. After the discharge motor 126 starts, the discharge shaft 124 rotates with the spiral scraper 125. The spiral scraper 125 conveys the items for sale in the discharge channel 122 to the discharge section 121 and finally discharges them through the discharge section 121. This design structure is simple, easy to manufacture, and highly reliable.

[0086] That is, one end of the discharge shaft 124 is fixed and connected to the discharge motor 126, and the other end of the discharge shaft 124 is inserted into the bearing 15 of the bearing 15 seat of the discharge channel 122. The discharge shaft 124 has a spiral scraper 125. When the discharge motor 126 rotates, it can scrape the popcorn in the discharge channel 122 to the discharge part 121 and fall from the discharge part 121 into the cup bucket 2.

[0087] For example, the discharge structure 123 includes a push plate, and the discharge motor 126 is a linear motor. The discharge motor 126 pushes the push plate to move closer to or away from the discharge section 121, thereby removing the items for sale in the discharge channel 122 from the discharge section 121.

[0088] In some embodiments, the height detection component 14 may optionally be an infrared height sensor, a laser height sensor, or an ultrasonic height sensor, etc.

[0089] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, in some embodiments, optionally, the weighing assembly 13 includes a weighing scale 131 and a tray 132, the tray 132 being mounted on the weighing scale 131, and the weighing scale 131 being mounted on a support assembly 11 and fixed to the main body of the equipment by the support assembly 11. The support assembly 11 also includes a weighing bracket 114, with the weighing scale 131 disposed on the side of the weighing bracket 114 facing the discharge section 121.

[0090] After the cup container 2 is placed on the tray 132, the weighing scale 131 can be tare and zeroed through software.

[0091] The dispensing motor 126 is then continuously rotated, and popcorn falls into the cup bucket 2 through the dispensing section 121. The weighing scale 131 dynamically records the cumulative weight of the falling popcorn. When the target weight of filling the bucket is almost reached, the software controls the dispensing motor 126 to start rotating intermittently. During this intermittent rotation, the transmitter 141 and receiver 142 detect whether the popcorn exceeds the top of the cup bucket 2. If the infrared light signal emitted by the transmitter 141 can be received by the receiver 142, it is determined that the popcorn is not exceeding the top, and the dispensing motor 126 is controlled to continue rotating intermittently. If the infrared light signal emitted by the transmitter 141 cannot be received by the receiver 142, it is determined that the popcorn has exceeded the top, that is, it is determined that the cup bucket 2 is full of popcorn. At this time, the dispensing motor 126 is controlled to stop rotating, and the popcorn dispensing is completed.

[0092] Secondly, the present invention provides a control method for a popcorn machine, applicable to popcorn machines as provided in the first aspect embodiment. Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating the control method of a popcorn machine according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5 As shown, the flow of the control method for a popcorn machine provided in one embodiment of the present invention is as follows:

[0093] Step 502: In response to the first input, control the continuous operation of the discharge component;

[0094] Step 504: If the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, control the discharge component to intermittently stop operating;

[0095] Step 506: If the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, control the discharge component to stop running.

[0096] The popcorn machine control method provided by the present invention includes receiving a first input from a user, responding to the first input by controlling the dispensing component to operate continuously so that the items to be sold can be discharged quickly, detecting the weight of the items to be discharged by a weighing component, controlling the dispensing component to switch from continuous operation to intermittent interruption operation when the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, and controlling the dispensing component to stop operation when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, thus completing the current dispensing operation of the popcorn machine.

[0097] In other words, after the user makes the initial input, the popcorn machine first uses a weighing component to detect the weight. Only when the weight of the item discharged by the dispensing component reaches the target weight value will it proceed to the next step. This allows for rapid dispensing of items in the early stages, reducing the total dispensing time per cycle. The dispensing component operates intermittently to reduce the possibility of excessive dispensing and overflowing the cup, leading to waste. Next, a height detection component detects the height. Only when the height of the item reaches the target height value will the dispensing component stop operating. This ensures that the item in the cup reaches the required height, achieving a specific capacity. Therefore, regardless of the size of the item or whether it falls out of the cup, the popcorn machine can consistently maintain the target height, increasing the probability that the dispensing volume reaches the cup's specified capacity.

[0098] For example, a cup can be placed on the weighing component of the popcorn machine. After the discharging component discharges the items for sale through the discharging section, the items can fall into the cup, thereby realizing the holding of the items for sale.

[0099] In other words, the user first places the cup bucket on the weighing component, then inputs the first input to the popcorn machine. The popcorn machine responds to this input, controlling the dispensing component to run continuously, dispensing items into the cup bucket. During the dispensing component's operation, the weighing component first detects the weight of the cup bucket and the items inside. When the weight of the items dispensed by the dispensing component reaches the target weight value, the dispensing component switches to intermittent operation. That is, the dispensing component runs for a period of time, then pauses for a period of time, repeating this process. Next, the height detection component detects the height of the items in the cup bucket. When the height of the items in the cup bucket reaches the target height value, the dispensing component stops running, the popcorn machine completes this dispensing cycle, and the user can remove the cup bucket.

[0100] Optionally, in some embodiments, controlling the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value includes: acquiring the detection result of the height detection component during each interruption of the discharge component's operation; and controlling the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value.

[0101] In this embodiment, when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the dispensing component is controlled to stop operating. This includes: during each interruption of the dispensing component's operation, acquiring the detection result of the height detection component, thereby reducing the possibility of the height detection component being interfered with by falling items for sale, improving the accuracy of height detection of items for sale, and when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, controlling the dispensing component to stop operating, and the popcorn machine completes this dispensing operation.

[0102] Optionally, during each interruption of the operation of the discharge component, the detection result of the height detection component is acquired, including: during the latter half of each interruption of the operation of the discharge component, the detection result of the height detection component is acquired.

[0103] In this embodiment, during each interruption of the dispensing component's operation, the detection result of the height detection component is obtained. This includes obtaining the detection result of the height detection component only during the latter half of the interruption period. This allows the detection result of the height detection component to be obtained only after the items have completely fallen, further reducing the impact of the items falling from the dispensing component on the height detection component and improving the accuracy of height detection of the items.

[0104] It takes a certain amount of time for the items to fall completely into the cup container. Therefore, obtaining the detection results of the height detection component during the latter half of the period when the dispensing component is interrupted can reduce the possibility of false detection by the height detection component.

[0105] To reduce the possibility that popcorn falling into the cup bucket might block the height detection component, preventing the sensor receiver from receiving the infrared light signal and thus misjudging that the target height has been reached, the software needs to read the signal status of the height detection component in the later period after the dispensing component is interrupted. For example, if the dispensing component is interrupted for 1 second, the signal status of the height detection component can be read in the following 500ms.

[0106] In some embodiments, the height detection component may optionally include multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers, with each transmitter and receiver paired one-to-one. That is, one transmitter and one receiver form a pair, and multiple transmitters and multiple receivers form multiple pairs. The multiple transmitters and receivers are distributed along the direction from the material section to the weighing component, so that each pair of transmitters and receivers matches a target height value, and multiple transmitters and receivers correspond to multiple target height values, thereby matching multiple discharge specifications and multiple sizes of cups and barrels.

[0107] Before controlling the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the method further includes: in response to the second input, determining the transmitter and receiver enabled by the height detection component to match the target height value.

[0108] In this embodiment, the height detection component includes multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers. Before controlling the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the component further includes: in response to the second input, determining the transmitters and receivers enabled by the height detection component to match the target height value for this discharge, thereby reducing the possibility of false detection by the height detection component.

[0109] In other words, users need to input the purchase specifications first. For example, users can select the size of the cup container as the second input. Taking the example of two pairs of transmitters and receivers, if the user selects a small cup container, the pair of transmitters and receivers with a lower height will be used. If the user selects a large cup container, the pair of transmitters and receivers with a higher height will be used.

[0110] For example, if there are two types of cups with different heights, such as a large cup and a small cup, then two pairs of transmitters and receivers need to be installed at different heights. If structural limitations prevent the two pairs of transmitters and receivers from being very close together, to avoid mutual interference between the infrared signals of the two pairs of transmitters and receivers, the transmitters need to be installed in different directions, and the receivers also need to be installed in different directions accordingly. This ensures that the signal emitted by one transmitter can only be received by one receiver, and vice versa. The software calls the signals from the corresponding transmitter and receiver based on the different cup heights. If there are more than two types of cups with different heights, the above method can be applied similarly.

[0111] The popcorn machine provided by this invention controls the rotation of the discharge motor by weight during the first half of the discharge process of the discharge component, that is, when the weight has not reached the target weight value. During this process, the discharge motor rotates continuously, which improves the discharge efficiency and reduces the user's waiting time.

[0112] In the latter half of the popcorn dispensing process, after the target weight value is reached, the rotation and stopping of the dispensing motor are controlled by the height inspection component. The jerky rotation can accurately determine whether the popcorn is full, ensuring that each bucket is full and consistent, improving customer satisfaction, while minimizing overflow and saving costs.

[0113] The methods described above can be implemented in various ways depending on specific features and / or example applications. For example, these methods can be implemented through a combination of hardware, firmware, and / or software. For instance, in a hardware implementation, the processor can be implemented in one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, electronic devices, other device units for performing the functions described above, and / or combinations thereof.

[0114] Thirdly, such as Figure 6 As shown, the present invention provides a control device 600 for a popcorn machine, applicable to the popcorn machine provided in the first aspect. The control device 600 includes: a first control module 602, used to control the continuous operation of the dispensing component in response to a first input; a second control module 604, used to control the dispensing component to intermittently interrupt operation when the weight value weighed by the weighing component is greater than or equal to a target weight value; and a third control module 606, used to control the dispensing component to stop operation when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to a target height value.

[0115] The control device for a popcorn machine provided by the present invention includes receiving a first input from a user, responding to the first input by controlling the dispensing component to operate continuously so that the items to be sold can be discharged quickly, detecting the weight of the items to be discharged by a weighing component, controlling the dispensing component to switch from continuous operation to intermittent interruption operation when the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, and controlling the dispensing component to stop operation when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, thus completing the current dispensing operation of the popcorn machine.

[0116] In other words, after the user makes the initial input, the popcorn machine first uses a weighing component to detect the weight. Only when the weight of the item discharged by the dispensing component reaches the target weight value will it proceed to the next step. This allows for rapid dispensing of items in the early stages, reducing the total dispensing time per cycle. The dispensing component operates intermittently to reduce the possibility of excessive dispensing and overflowing the cup, leading to waste. Next, a height detection component detects the height. Only when the height of the item reaches the target height value will the dispensing component stop operating. This ensures that the item in the cup reaches the required height, achieving a specific capacity. Therefore, regardless of the size of the item or whether it falls out of the cup, the popcorn machine can consistently maintain the target height, increasing the probability that the dispensing volume reaches the cup's specified capacity.

[0117] For example, a cup can be placed on the weighing component of the popcorn machine. After the discharging component discharges the items for sale through the discharging section, the items can fall into the cup, thereby realizing the holding of the items for sale.

[0118] In other words, the user first places the cup bucket on the weighing component, then inputs the first input to the popcorn machine. The popcorn machine responds to this input, controlling the dispensing component to run continuously, dispensing items into the cup bucket. During the dispensing component's operation, the weighing component first detects the weight of the cup bucket and the items inside. When the weight of the items dispensed by the dispensing component reaches the target weight value, the dispensing component switches to intermittent operation. That is, the dispensing component runs for a period of time, then pauses for a period of time, repeating this process. Next, the height detection component detects the height of the items in the cup bucket. When the height of the items in the cup bucket reaches the target height value, the dispensing component stops running, the popcorn machine completes this dispensing cycle, and the user can remove the cup bucket.

[0119] In some embodiments, the third control module may optionally include: an acquisition submodule, configured to acquire the detection result of the height detection component during each interruption of the operation of the discharge component; and a control submodule, configured to control the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value.

[0120] In some embodiments, the control submodule may optionally include a control unit for acquiring the detection result of the height detection component during the latter half of each interruption of the operation of the discharge component.

[0121] In some embodiments, the height detection component may optionally include multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers, and the control device of the popcorn machine may further include: a determination module, configured to determine, in response to a second input, which transmitters and receivers of the height detection component are enabled to match a target height value.

[0122] Fourthly, the present invention provides a storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the popcorn machine control method provided in the second aspect embodiment.

[0123] The storage medium provided by the present invention stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the popcorn machine control method provided in the second aspect embodiment. Therefore, it has all the beneficial effects of the steps of the popcorn machine control method provided in the second aspect embodiment, which will not be described in detail here.

[0124] The program or instructions are stored in the controller's storage medium, which can be a tangible device that holds and stores instructions for use by the instruction execution device. Computer storage media can be, but is not limited to, electronic storage devices, magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, electromagnetic storage devices, semiconductor storage devices, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of computer storage media includes: portable computer floppy disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EROM, EPROM, or flash memory), static random access memory (SRAM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital video disc (DVD), memory cards, floppy disks, encoding mechanisms (e.g., punched cards or grooves with raised structures for recording instructions), and any suitable combination of the foregoing. The computer storage medium used here should not be understood as the transmission signal itself, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through waveguides or other transmission media, or electrical signals transmitted through wires.

[0125] Fifthly, the present invention provides a popcorn machine, comprising: a controller for executing a control method for a popcorn machine as provided in the second aspect embodiment; or a control device for a popcorn machine as provided in the third aspect embodiment; or a storage medium as provided in the fourth aspect embodiment.

[0126] The popcorn machine provided by the present invention includes a controller for performing the control method of the popcorn machine as provided in the second aspect embodiment; or includes a control device of the popcorn machine as provided in the third aspect embodiment; or includes a storage medium as provided in the fourth aspect embodiment. Therefore, it has all the beneficial effects of the control method of the popcorn machine as provided in the second aspect embodiment; or the control device of the popcorn machine as provided in the third aspect embodiment; or the storage medium as provided in the fourth aspect embodiment, which will not be described in detail here.

[0127] The terms "first" and "second" in the specification and claims of this application may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the features. In the textual description of this invention, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0128] In the textual description of this invention, it is understood that, unless explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0129] In the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0130] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for a popcorn machine, characterized in that, A method for controlling a popcorn machine is provided, comprising: a support assembly, a discharging assembly, a weighing assembly, and a height detection assembly. The discharging assembly is disposed on the support assembly and includes a discharging section. The weighing assembly is disposed on the support assembly, and the weighing assembly and the discharging section are spaced apart and opposite to each other. The height detection assembly is disposed on the support assembly and is used to detect the height of the items to be sold on the side of the weighing assembly facing the discharging section. The control method of the popcorn machine includes: In response to the first input, the discharge component is controlled to operate continuously; If the weight value measured by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value, the discharging component is controlled to intermittently stop operating. If the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharge component shall be controlled to stop operating. If the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharging component is controlled to stop operating, including: During each interruption of the operation of the discharge component, the detection result of the height detection component is acquired; If the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, the discharge component shall be controlled to stop operating. During each interruption of the operation of the discharge component, the detection result of the height detection component is acquired, including: During each interruption of the operation of the discharge component, the detection result of the height detection component is acquired during the latter half of the interruption period.

2. The control method for a popcorn machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height detection component includes multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers. Before controlling the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value, it further includes: In response to the second input, the transmitter and receiver of the height detection component are determined to be enabled to match the target height value.

3. The control method for a popcorn machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height detection component includes a transmitter and a receiver; The support assembly includes a first fixing member and a second fixing member, which are located on opposite sides of the weighing assembly. The transmitting end and the receiving end are respectively disposed on the first fixing member and the second fixing member.

4. The control method for a popcorn machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The height detection component includes multiple pairs of transmitters and receivers, which are distributed along the direction from the discharge section to the weighing component. Each pair of transmitters and receivers is matched with a target height value.

5. The control method for a popcorn machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the direction from the discharge section to the weighing assembly, the transmitting end and the receiving end are alternately distributed on the side of the first fixing member facing the second fixing member, and the transmitting end and the receiving end are alternately distributed on the side of the second fixing member facing the first fixing member.

6. A control device for a popcorn machine, characterized in that, A popcorn machine is applicable to this device, comprising: a support assembly, a discharging assembly, a weighing assembly, and a height detection assembly. The discharging assembly is disposed on the support assembly and includes a discharging section. The weighing assembly is disposed on the support assembly, and the weighing assembly and the discharging section are spaced apart and opposite to each other. The height detection assembly is disposed on the support assembly and is used to detect the height of the items to be sold on the side of the weighing assembly facing the discharging section. The control device of the popcorn machine includes: The first control module is used to control the continuous operation of the discharge component in response to the first input; The second control module is used to control the discharge component to intermittently stop operating when the weight value weighed by the weighing component is greater than or equal to the target weight value. The third control module is used to control the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value. The third control module includes: The acquisition submodule is used to acquire the detection result of the height detection component during each interruption of the operation of the discharge component; The control submodule is used to control the discharge component to stop operating when the height value detected by the height detection component is greater than or equal to the target height value; The control submodule includes: The control unit is configured to acquire the detection result of the height detection component during the latter half of each interruption of operation of the discharge component.

7. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the control method for the popcorn machine as described in any one of claims 1 to 5.

8. A popcorn machine, characterized in that, include: Controller, the controller being configured to perform the control method for the popcorn machine as described in any one of claims 1 to 5; or The control device for the popcorn machine as described in claim 6; or The storage medium as described in claim 7.

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