Limestone sampling device and sampling method

Abstract

The invention discloses a device for sampling limestone and a sampling method, and relates to the technical field of limestone production sampling, the device comprises an ash discharge bin, the upper end of the ash discharge bin is provided with a driving mechanism; the sampling mechanism is arranged on the driving mechanism and is used for extending into the ash discharging bin to collect limestone; the sampling mechanism comprises an outer sampling pipe, an inner sampling pipe rotationally arranged in the outer sampling pipe and a sample cabin arranged in the inner sampling pipe; the detection mechanism is arranged at the end part of the sampling mechanism and is used for collecting the humidity and the compaction resistance of the limestone; the detection mechanism comprises a moisture sensor arranged on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling pipe and a probe assembly arranged in the lower end of the outer sampling pipe; the material receiving mechanism is arranged on the outer side of the ash discharging bin and is used for receiving the limestone collected by the sampling mechanism; the sampling position and depth can be dynamically adjusted according to the actual state of materials in the limestone bin, and the position of a hardened layer can be rapidly judged.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the technical field of limestone production sampling, specifically to an apparatus and sampling method for limestone sampling. Background Technology

[0002] In industrial fields such as limestone processing and building material production, the representativeness of samples taken from storage is directly related to product quality control. Currently, common sampling techniques usually involve manual or mechanical sampling at fixed sampling points and depths, such as timed or quantitative sampling at multiple preset points. Although these methods can achieve automated operation, they have obvious defects in practical applications.

[0003] Existing sampling techniques cannot dynamically adjust the sampling location and depth according to the actual state of the materials in the limestone silo, and cannot determine the location of the slab layer, resulting in technical problems such as insufficient sample representativeness and poor sampling reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides an apparatus and sampling method for limestone sampling.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides the following technical solution: This invention provides an apparatus for limestone sampling, comprising: Ash discharge hopper, the upper end of which is equipped with a drive mechanism; A sampling mechanism is mounted on the drive mechanism and is used to extend into the interior of the lime hopper to collect limestone. The sampling mechanism includes an outer sampling tube, an inner sampling tube rotatably disposed inside the outer sampling tube, and a sample chamber disposed in the inner sampling tube; A detection mechanism is installed at the end of the sampling mechanism and is used to collect the moisture content and compaction resistance of the limestone; The detection mechanism includes a moisture sensor disposed on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube and a probe assembly disposed inside the lower end of the outer sampling tube. And a receiving mechanism, which is located outside the ash discharge hopper and is used to receive the limestone collected by the sampling mechanism.

[0006] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the driving mechanism includes a support frame fixed to the upper end of the ash discharge hopper, and an X-axis translation unit, a Y-axis translation unit, and a Z-axis lifting unit installed on the support frame.

[0007] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the external sampling tube is provided with an inlet and an outlet, and the inlet is located at the upper end of the outlet; During the rotation of the internal sampling tube, the openings on the sample chamber are connected to the inlet and outlet, respectively.

[0008] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lower inner surface of the sample chamber is inclined.

[0009] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the probe assembly includes a first driving unit embedded inside the lower end of the external sampling tube and a probe unit connected to the first driving unit, wherein a pressure sensor is provided at the end of the probe unit.

[0010] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the receiving mechanism includes a second driving unit and a receiving box connected to the second driving unit; After the limestone sample inside the sample chamber is collected, the limestone sample inside the sample chamber will be transported to the receiving box.

[0011] The present invention also provides a sampling method for limestone sampling, comprising the following steps: S1. The drive mechanism moves the sampling mechanism to the horizontal position to be measured inside the ash discharge hopper; S2. The drive mechanism drives the sampling mechanism to descend, while the detection mechanism collects the moisture value of the limestone and pauses at a preset depth. The probe assembly collects the compaction resistance value of the limestone. S3. Based on the humidity and compaction resistance values ​​collected in step S2, determine the horizontal position and sampling depth of the sampling point; S4. The driving mechanism drives the sampling mechanism to move to the horizontal position of the sampling point determined in step S3, and drives it to move to the sampling depth determined in step S3. The inner sampling tube is controlled to rotate so that the opening of the sample chamber is connected to the inlet on the outer sampling tube to collect the sample. Then the inner sampling tube is controlled to rotate so that the opening of the sample chamber is not connected to the inlet or outlet. S5. The drive mechanism drives the sampling mechanism to rise and move to the receiving mechanism, controls the inner sampling tube to rotate so that the opening of the sample chamber is connected to the outlet on the outer sampling tube, and unloads the sample into the receiving mechanism. S6. Repeat S1-S5 above to complete the sampling of limestone at multiple different locations inside the ash hopper.

[0012] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, step S2 specifically includes: S21. The driving mechanism drives the sampling mechanism to descend vertically, and the moisture sensor on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube continuously measures and records the moisture value of the limestone at each depth. S22. When the sampling mechanism descends to a preset interval depth or pauses at a specific depth, the first drive unit in the probe assembly drives the probe unit to extend. The pressure sensor at the end of the probe unit measures and records the peak thrust required to push the probe unit, which is used as the compaction resistance value of the limestone at that depth point. S23. Repeat the above steps to complete the vertical scanning of several sets of horizontal positions in the ash hopper, and obtain a dataset containing position, humidity value and compaction resistance value.

[0013] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, step S3 specifically includes: S31. Based on the dataset obtained in step S2, select several locations with the highest humidity values ​​from all horizontal locations as priority sampling points. S32. At each priority sampling point, analyze the compaction resistance value along the depth direction, and determine the depth range where the compaction resistance value first appears and continuously exceeds the set threshold as the compaction layer. S33. The horizontal position of the priority sampling point selected in step S31, and the top and bottom depths of the corresponding slab layer determined in step S32, are determined as the final specific sampling position and sampling depth.

[0014] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, step S5 specifically includes: S51. After the sample collection is completed, the drive mechanism drives the sampling mechanism to rise vertically to the point of detachment from the material surface; S52. The drive mechanism moves the sampling mechanism horizontally to directly above the receiving box in the receiving mechanism; S53. Control the rotation of the inner sampling tube so that the inclined lower end face inside the sample chamber faces the discharge port, and align the opening on the sample chamber with the discharge port on the outer sampling tube. The sample slides down into the receiving box through the discharge port under the action of gravity.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are: In this invention, a moisture sensor located on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube can continuously measure the moisture content of limestone at different depths during the descent of the sampling mechanism. Simultaneously, a probe assembly located inside the lower end of the outer sampling tube allows the probe unit to extend when paused at a specific depth by a first drive unit. A pressure sensor at the end of the probe unit measures the peak thrust required to push it, thereby obtaining the compaction resistance value at that depth. The dataset of moisture content and compaction resistance at multiple depths provides a data foundation for subsequent targeted sampling. Operators can dynamically adjust the sampling position and depth according to the actual state of the material in the limestone silo and can quickly determine the location of the compacted layer. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the invention and form part of the specification. They are used in conjunction with embodiments of the invention to explain the invention and do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings:

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the working state of the device for limestone sampling according to the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the sampling mechanism.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the sampling mechanism.

[0020] Figure 4 This is another longitudinal sectional view of the sampling mechanism.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the sampling method used for limestone sampling.

[0022] In the diagram: 1. Ash discharge hopper; 2. Drive mechanism; 3. Sampling mechanism; 31. External sampling tube; 311. Feed inlet; 312. Discharge outlet; 32. Internal sampling tube; 33. Sample chamber; 331. Opening; 4. Detection mechanism; 41. Moisture sensor; 42. Probe assembly; 421. First drive unit; 422. Probe unit; 5. Receiving mechanism; 51. Second drive unit; 52. Receiving box. Detailed Implementation

[0023] The technical solutions of this application will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are merely some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations. Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0024] It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures indicate similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent figures. Furthermore, in the description of this application, terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used only to distinguish descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0025] Example 1 like Figures 1-4 As shown, an apparatus for limestone sampling includes: Ash discharge hopper 1, with a drive mechanism 2 provided at the upper end of the ash discharge hopper 1, the ash discharge hopper 1 being used to store limestone material; Sampling mechanism 3 is mounted on the drive mechanism 2 and is used to extend into the interior of the limestone discharge hopper 1 to collect limestone; The sampling mechanism 3 includes an outer sampling tube 31, an inner sampling tube 32 rotatably disposed inside the outer sampling tube 31, and a sample chamber 33 disposed in the inner sampling tube 32. The outer sampling tube 31 is a hollow tube with a tapered structure at its lower end to facilitate material insertion. The inner sampling tube 32 is coaxially and rotatably arranged in the inner cavity of the outer sampling tube 31. The sample chamber 33 is fixedly arranged inside the inner sampling tube 32 and is an independent cavity. The inner sampling tube 32 can be rotated about its axis relative to the outer sampling tube 31 via a structure such as a drive component; The detection mechanism 4 is located at the end of the sampling mechanism 3 and is used to collect the moisture content and compaction resistance of the limestone. The detection mechanism 4 includes a moisture sensor 41 disposed on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube 31 and a probe assembly 42 disposed inside the lower end of the outer sampling tube 31. The moisture sensor 41 is disposed on the outer wall of the lower end of the outer sampling tube 31. For example, a microwave moisture sensor 41 can be used to continuously or intermittently measure and record the moisture value of limestone material at different depths during the descent of the sampling mechanism 3. The probe assembly 42 includes a first driving unit 421 and a probe unit 422. The first driving unit 421 is embedded in the internal cavity at the lower end of the external sampling tube 31, and can be, for example, a small servo electric cylinder. The probe unit 422 is connected to the power output end of the first drive unit 421, and a pressure sensor is provided at its end. The first drive unit 421 can drive the probe unit 422 to perform independent short-stroke extension and retraction movements along the axial direction of the outer sampling tube 31. When the sampling mechanism 3 descends to a certain preset depth and pauses under the drive of the drive mechanism 2, the first drive unit 421 starts and drives the probe unit 422 to extend downwards by a certain distance (e.g., 20-50mm). During this process, the pressure sensor at the end of the probe unit 422 will measure the thrust required to push the probe unit 422 to extend, and its peak value is recorded as the compaction resistance value at that depth point. Since the external sampling tube 31 remains stationary at this time, its sidewall bears all the lateral friction force of the material. Therefore, the thrust measured by the pressure sensor only reflects the resistance generated by the probe unit 422 overcoming the local material compaction, that is, the true end compaction resistance that eliminates the interference of depth-related sidewall friction. And a receiving mechanism 5, which is located outside the ash discharge hopper 1 and is used to receive the limestone collected by the sampling mechanism 3.

[0026] The samples collected by this device can accurately reflect the abnormal conditions of the areas with the highest humidity and the most severe compaction in the warehouse, greatly improving the representativeness of the samples.

[0027] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown, the drive mechanism 2 includes a support frame fixed to the upper end of the ash discharge hopper 1, and an X-axis translation unit, a Y-axis translation unit, and a Z-axis lifting unit installed on the support frame.

[0028] The support frame serves as the mounting base for the entire drive mechanism 2. It spans and is fixed above the top opening 331 or the top platform of the ash discharge hopper 1, providing stable support for the subsequent motion units. The X-axis translation unit and the Y-axis translation unit can be a combination of linear guide rails, ball screw pairs and servo motors (or stepper motors) to form a high-precision coordinate motion platform. The Z-axis lifting unit is a drive component that enables vertical positioning and performs detection and sampling actions. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the Z-axis lifting unit can be a servo electric cylinder, a ball screw jack, or a wire rope winch mechanism, etc., and its key requirements are sufficient pushing and pulling force, stroke, and position control accuracy.

[0029] Furthermore, such as Figures 2-4 As shown, the external sampling tube 31 is provided with an inlet 311 and an outlet 312, and the inlet 311 is located at the upper end of the outlet 312; This vertical arrangement is based on functional logic: the lower position of the inlet 311 allows it to directly contact the surrounding material when the outer sampling tube 31 reaches the target sampling depth, facilitating the flow of material under static pressure or slight disturbance; the higher position of the outlet 312 allows the sample to be smoothly discharged from the sample chamber 33 through the outlet 312 by gravity when the sampling mechanism 3 is raised to the unloading position after sampling, while avoiding accidental unloading at the sampling depth that could lead to sample leakage or contamination. During the rotation of the inner sampling tube 32, the opening 331 on the sample chamber 33 is connected to the inlet 311 and the outlet 312 respectively.

[0030] During rotation, the connection between the opening 331 on the sample chamber 33 and the inlet 311 and outlet 312 on the outer sampling tube 31 changes periodically, thereby achieving three main working states: Sampling status: When it is necessary to collect a sample, the inner sampling tube 32 is rotated to a specific angle by a driving component (e.g., a miniature rotary motor set at the upper end of the inner sampling tube 32, not shown in the figure). At this time, the opening 331 on the sample chamber 33 is completely aligned and connected with the feed port 311 on the side wall of the outer sampling tube 31. Since the lower end of the outer sampling tube 31 is a closed conical structure, when the sampling mechanism 3 is driven by the driving mechanism 2 to descend to the preset sampling depth and pause, the surrounding limestone material flows into the cavity connected to the sample chamber 33 through the feed port 311 under static pressure, thus completing the sample collection.

[0031] Sealed carrying state: After sample collection is completed, the inner sampling tube 32 is rotated at a certain angle so that the opening 331 on the sample chamber 33 rotates to a position opposite to the solid part of the outer sampling tube 31 wall. At this time, the opening 331 on the sample chamber 33 is neither connected to the inlet 311 nor to the outlet 312. The sample chamber 33 thus forms a sealed space, completely isolating the sample inside from the external environment. In this state, the drive mechanism 2 can safely drive the entire sampling mechanism 3 to rise, fall or move horizontally in the ash discharge chamber 1, transporting the sample from the sampling point to the unloading point. During the process, it effectively prevents the sample from spilling, stratifying or cross-contaminating with materials of different depths.

[0032] Unloading state: When the sampling mechanism 3 is moved to the predetermined unloading position above the receiving mechanism 5 (specifically the receiving box 52), the inner sampling tube 32 is controlled to rotate to another specific angle. At this time, the opening 331 on the sample chamber 33 is completely aligned and connected with the discharge port 312 on the side wall of the outer sampling tube 31. At the same time, combined with the inclined design of the lower end face inside the sample chamber 33, the sample can smoothly slide out through the opening 331 and the discharge port 312 of the sample chamber 33 under its own gravity and fall into the receiving box 52 below, completing the automatic unloading of the sample.

[0033] Specifically, the lower end face can gradually slope down from one side to the other, forming a ramp.

[0034] Furthermore, such as Figures 3-4 As shown, the probe assembly 42 includes a first driving unit 421 embedded inside the lower end of the outer sampling tube 31 and a probe unit 422 connected to the first driving unit 421. A pressure sensor is provided at the end of the probe unit 422.

[0035] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first drive unit 421 may be a small servo electric cylinder, a linear motor, or a precision linear drive mechanism 2 consisting of a motor and a lead screw. Its core function is to provide controllable, short-stroke linear reciprocating motion. The main body of the first drive unit 421 is firmly installed in a pre-set bracket or cavity inside the external sampling tube 31, and its power output end (such as the push rod of the electric cylinder) is connected to the top of the probe unit 422.

[0036] The probe unit 422 is a slender solid or tubular metal rod, the material of which is typically of sufficient rigidity and strength to withstand the axial load when pushing material. The probe unit 422 is arranged substantially parallel to the axis of the external sampling tube 31. The pressure sensor is integrated at the lower end (i.e., tip) of the probe unit 422. The pressure sensor can be a miniature strain gauge sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, or other sensing element capable of accurately measuring axial pressure. Its signal line is led out through the probe unit 422 and / or the first drive unit 421 and connected to the central control module.

[0037] The specific workflow is as follows: Pause and Separation: When the sampling mechanism 3 descends to a preset depth point and pauses, the outer sampling tube 31 itself remains stationary. At this time, the side wall friction between the outer wall of the outer sampling tube 31 and the surrounding material has reached an equilibrium state related to the depth. Independent extension and measurement: When the external sampling tube 31 is paused, the central control module commands the first drive unit 421 to start. The first drive unit 421 drives the probe unit 422 connected to it to extend independently along the axial direction for a preset short stroke, such as 20-50mm, relative to the stationary external sampling tube 31. During this extension process, only the tip of the probe unit 422 contacts the material in front and applies pressure. Signal Acquisition and Processing: During the extension of the probe unit 422, the pressure sensor integrated at its end senses the axial force required to propel the probe unit 422 forward in real time. Since the outer sampling tube 31 is stationary, the sidewall friction force of the material acting on the outer wall of the outer sampling tube 31 is entirely borne by the structure of the outer sampling tube 31. Therefore, the peak value of the force measured by the pressure sensor purely reflects the resistance required for the tip of the probe unit 422 to overcome the local material compaction state in front of it, i.e., the true end compaction resistance. Data recording and reset: The central control module records the compaction resistance value corresponding to the depth point, which is measured by the pressure sensor. After the measurement is completed, the first drive unit 421 drives the probe unit 422 to retract to the initial position. Subsequently, the drive mechanism 2 can drive the sampling mechanism 3 to continue to descend to the next depth point and repeat the above pause-measurement process.

[0038] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 As shown, the receiving mechanism 5 includes a second drive unit 51 and a receiving box 52 connected to the second drive unit 51; After the limestone sample inside the sample chamber 33 is collected, the limestone sample inside the sample chamber 33 will be transported to the receiving box 52.

[0039] The second drive unit 51 can be a linear motion mechanism, such as a slide table driven by a motor and moving along a horizontal guide rail, or a linear electric cylinder. The fixed part of the second drive unit 51 (such as the slide rail or the cylinder body) is installed on a fixed base or platform outside the ash discharge bin 1, and its movable output end (such as the slider or the electric cylinder push rod) is connected to the receiving box 52. The core function of the second drive unit 51 is to drive the receiving box 52 to move under the command of the central control module. When it is necessary to receive a sample, the second drive unit 51 moves the receiving box 52 and accurately positions it at a predetermined receiving position. This position is usually located in a fixed, easy-to-operate area outside the wall of the ash discharge hopper 1, and is precisely located directly below the discharge port 312 of the sampling mechanism 3 when it unloads. When it is not necessary to receive a sample or when it is necessary to replace or remove the sample, the second drive unit 51 can move the receiving box 52 away from this position to facilitate manual operation or replacement of the sample container.

[0040] Example 2 Components that are the same as or corresponding to those in Embodiment 1 are referred to using the same reference numerals as in Embodiment 1. For simplicity, only the differences from Embodiment 1 are described below. The difference between Embodiment 2 and Embodiment 1 is as follows:

[0041] Furthermore, such as Figure 5 As shown, the present invention also provides a sampling method for limestone sampling, comprising the following steps: S1. Drive mechanism 2 drives sampling mechanism 3 to move to the horizontal position to be measured in ash discharge bin 1; S2, the driving mechanism 2 drives the sampling mechanism 3 to descend, while the detection mechanism 4 collects the moisture value of the limestone and pauses at a preset depth, and the probe assembly 42 collects the compaction resistance value of the limestone. S3. Based on the humidity and compaction resistance values ​​collected in step S2, determine the horizontal position and sampling depth of the sampling point; S4. The driving mechanism 2 drives the sampling mechanism 3 to move to the horizontal position of the sampling point determined in step S3, and drives it to move to the sampling depth determined in step S3. The inner sampling tube 32 is controlled to rotate so that the opening 331 of the sample chamber 33 is connected to the inlet 311 on the outer sampling tube 31 to collect the sample. Then the inner sampling tube 32 is controlled to rotate so that the opening 331 of the sample chamber 33 is not connected to the inlet 311 or the outlet 312. The driving mechanism 2 first moves the sampling mechanism 3 above the horizontal coordinate (X,Y) of the first target sampling point according to the instruction generated in step S3. Then, the Z-axis lifting unit drives the sampling mechanism 3 to descend to the first target sampling depth (Z, for example, the top depth of the slab layer) at that point. Once the precise depth is reached, the inner sampling tube 32 is rotated so that the opening 331 on the side wall of the sample chamber 33 fixed inside it is aligned and connected with the feed inlet 311 on the side wall of the outer sampling tube 31. At this time, the surrounding limestone material flows into the sample chamber 33 through the feed inlet 311 under static pressure. After maintaining the feed for several seconds to ensure the sample is full, control the inner sampling tube 32 to rotate in the opposite direction by a certain angle, so that the opening 331 of the sample chamber 33 is turned away from the feed port 311 and is closed by the solid part of the tube wall of the outer sampling tube 31. At this time, the sample chamber 33 forms a sealed container to encapsulate the sample inside. S5. The driving mechanism 2 drives the sampling mechanism 3 to rise and move to the receiving mechanism 5, controls the inner sampling tube 32 to rotate so that the opening 331 of the sample chamber 33 is connected to the outlet 312 on the outer sampling tube 31, and unloads the sample into the receiving mechanism 5. S6. Repeat S1-S5 above to complete the sampling of limestone at multiple different locations inside the ash hopper 1. For the same horizontal point with multiple sampling depths (such as the top and bottom of the slab layer) determined in step S3, after completing S4 and S5 to collect and unload the sample at the first depth (such as the top depth), it is necessary to repeat steps S4 and S5, locate the horizontal point again, and descend to the second sampling depth (such as the bottom depth) for sampling and unloading. For multiple different priority sampling points determined in a batch task, the complete process from S1 (or S4) to S5 needs to be executed cyclically until all target points have been sampled.

[0042] Furthermore, step S2 specifically includes: S21, the driving mechanism 2 drives the sampling mechanism 3 to descend vertically, and the moisture sensor 41 on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube 31 continuously measures and records the moisture value of the limestone at each depth. After the drive mechanism 2 positions the sampling mechanism 3 directly above the target horizontal position (X, Y) through its X-axis translation unit and Y-axis translation unit, the Z-axis lifting unit begins to drive the entire sampling mechanism 3 to move downward along the vertical axis (Z-axis) so that it penetrates the limestone material layer; During this uniform or variable speed descent, the moisture sensor 41, which is fixed to the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube 31, is always in working condition. The sensor senses the humidity value of the surrounding material in real time at a predetermined sampling frequency, and the central control module synchronously records the depth information corresponding to each humidity reading (provided by the position encoder of the Z-axis lifting unit or an independent depth measuring device). Therefore, this process generates a continuous or high-density discrete humidity distribution curve along the depth direction, reflecting the changes in the moisture content of the material on the vertical profile, such as identifying peak points or damp layers of abnormal humidity.

[0043] S22. When the sampling mechanism 3 descends by a preset interval depth or pauses at a specific depth, the first driving unit 421 in the probe assembly 42 drives the probe unit 422 to extend. The pressure sensor at the end of the probe unit 422 measures and records the peak thrust required to push the probe unit 422, which is used as the compaction resistance value of the limestone at that depth point. During the descent process, the sampling mechanism 3, according to a preset program, descends at fixed depth intervals (e.g., 0.5 meters), or at a specific depth of concern (such as a humidity mutation point) determined based on real-time humidity data from S21, the central control module instructs the drive mechanism 2 to pause the Z-axis lifting unit, so that the sampling mechanism 3 as a whole remains stationary at that depth. After the outer sampling tube 31 is stationary in the material, the probe assembly 42 disposed therein starts to work. The first drive unit 421 receives the instruction and drives the probe unit 422 connected thereto to independently perform a short stroke extension action along the axial direction downward relative to the stationary outer sampling tube 31. During the extension of the probe unit 422, its end will squeeze the material in front. The pressure sensor integrated at the end of the probe unit 422 monitors the axial force required to drive the probe unit 422 forward in real time. Since the extension process is very short, the resistance of the material being compressed will quickly reach a peak and then tend to stabilize or decrease. The central control module captures and records this peak force. After completing the peak thrust measurement and recording, the first drive unit 421 drives the probe unit 422 to retract to its initial position, ready for the next measurement.

[0044] S23. Repeat the above steps to complete the vertical scanning of several sets of horizontal positions in the ash hopper 1, and obtain a dataset containing position, humidity value and compaction resistance value. For the current horizontal position (X,Y), repeat the S21 and S22 loop until the entire vertical profile from the material surface to the target bottom depth is scanned. Then, the driving mechanism 2 drives the sampling mechanism 3 to move horizontally to the next preset detection horizontal position point, repeating the above complete vertical scanning process; Finally, by performing the above-mentioned detection on each of the multiple horizontal position points pre-deployed in the ash discharge hopper 1, the central control module will collect all the data to form a structured dataset. Each record in this dataset is associated with a unique three-dimensional spatial coordinate (X,Y,Z) and contains two key physical quantities: the limestone moisture content at that coordinate point (from S21) and the actual end compaction resistance at that coordinate point (from S22). This complete dataset provides a comprehensive and accurate foundation of on-site material status information for rule-based intelligent decision-making in the subsequent step S3.

[0045] Furthermore, step S3 specifically includes: S31. Based on the dataset obtained in step S2, select several locations with the highest humidity values ​​from all horizontal locations as priority sampling points. The dataset contains all humidity values ​​measured and recorded by the moisture sensor 41 along multiple depth points in step S2. Each humidity value is associated with a specific horizontal position (X, Y) and depth (Z). The central control module first performs a lateral comparison of all detected horizontal positions. The rule it executes is: calculate or identify the highest value, average value, or other statistical characteristics among all depth points corresponding to each horizontal position, and then sort the characteristic values ​​of all horizontal positions. According to a preset strategy (e.g., select the top 2-3, or all points exceeding a certain high humidity threshold), the top-ranked horizontal positions are determined as priority sampling points. The physical significance of this rule is that the areas with the highest abnormal humidity in the warehouse are often key areas where the material has uneven moisture content, may stick together, or may undergo chemical reactions. Targeted sampling from these areas is of the highest value for assessing the overall condition of the material and potential risks.

[0046] S32. At each priority sampling point, analyze the compaction resistance value along the depth direction, and determine the depth range where the compaction resistance value first appears and continuously exceeds the set threshold as the compaction layer. For each priority sampling point (X,Y) determined in S31, the central control module retrieves its corresponding vertical profile data, i.e. a series of compaction resistance values ​​along the depth (Z) direction. The determination rule is as follows: find a depth range in which the compaction resistance value changes from below the preset threshold to continuously exceeding the preset threshold (e.g., 180N) for the first time, and remains above the threshold for a certain depth thereafter, until it decreases again or the scan ends. The first continuous excess depth range that meets this condition is determined to be the compacted layer.

[0047] S33. The horizontal position of the priority sampling point selected in step S31, and the top and bottom depths of the corresponding slab layer determined in step S32, are determined as the final specific sampling position and sampling depth. The central control module associates the output of step S31 with the output of step S32. For a given priority sampling point, if step S32 determines that there is a slab layer, the top and bottom depths of the slab layer are usually determined as the sampling depth of the point so as to obtain samples of the upper and lower interfaces of the slab layer for comparative analysis. If no obvious compaction layer is found at a certain priority sampling point after S32 analysis (i.e., the compaction resistance value has never continuously exceeded the threshold), the system may only select a representative depth at that point for sampling based on the humidity characteristics, or not include that point in the current sampling list. Finally, the system generates a structured list of instructions, each of which explicitly specifies the three-dimensional coordinates (X, Y, Z) of a target point, where Z is the determined sampling depth. This list directly drives the precise movement and sampling actions in the subsequent step S4.

[0048] Furthermore, step S5 specifically includes: S51. After the sample collection is completed, the drive mechanism 2 drives the sampling mechanism 3 to rise vertically to the point of detachment from the material surface; S52, the drive mechanism 2 drives the sampling mechanism 3 to move horizontally to directly above the receiving box 52 in the receiving mechanism 5; S53. Control the inner sampling tube 32 to rotate so that the inclined lower end face inside the sample chamber 33 faces the discharge port 312, and align and connect the opening 331 on the sample chamber 33 with the discharge port 312 on the outer sampling tube 31. The sample slides down through the discharge port 312 into the receiving box 52 under the action of gravity.

[0049] This step ensures the complete transfer of the sample, providing a reliable guarantee for subsequent laboratory analysis.

[0050] Finally, it should be noted that the above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus for limestone sampling, characterized in that, include: Ash discharge hopper (1), the upper end of which is provided with a drive mechanism (2); A sampling mechanism (3) is provided on the drive mechanism (2) and is used to extend into the interior of the ash discharge hopper (1) to collect limestone; The sampling mechanism (3) includes an outer sampling tube (31), an inner sampling tube (32) rotatably disposed inside the outer sampling tube (31), and a sample chamber (33) disposed in the inner sampling tube (32). The detection mechanism (4) is located at the end of the sampling mechanism (3) and is used to collect the moisture content and compaction resistance of the limestone. The detection mechanism (4) includes a moisture sensor (41) disposed on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube (31) and a probe assembly (42) disposed inside the lower end of the outer sampling tube (31). And a receiving mechanism (5), which is located outside the ash discharge hopper (1) and is used to receive limestone collected by the sampling mechanism (3).

2. The apparatus for limestone sampling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive mechanism (2) includes a support frame fixed to the upper end of the ash discharge hopper (1), and an X-axis translation unit, a Y-axis translation unit and a Z-axis lifting unit installed on the support frame.

3. The apparatus for limestone sampling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The external sampling tube (31) is provided with an inlet (311) and an outlet (312), with the inlet (311) located at the upper end of the outlet (312); During the rotation of the inner sampling tube (32), the opening (331) on the sample chamber (33) is connected to the inlet (311) and the outlet (312) respectively.

4. The apparatus for limestone sampling according to claim 3, characterized in that, The lower inner surface of the sample chamber (33) is inclined.

5. The apparatus for limestone sampling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The probe assembly (42) includes a first drive unit (421) embedded inside the lower end of the outer sampling tube (31) and a probe unit (422) connected to the first drive unit (421). A pressure sensor is provided at the end of the probe unit (422).

6. The apparatus for limestone sampling according to claim 1, characterized in that, The receiving mechanism (5) includes a second drive unit (51) and a receiving box (52) connected to the second drive unit (51). After the limestone sample inside the sample chamber (33) is collected, the limestone sample inside the sample chamber (33) will be transported to the inside of the receiving box (52).

7. A sampling method for limestone sampling, based on the apparatus for limestone sampling according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. The driving mechanism (2) drives the sampling mechanism (3) to move to the horizontal position to be measured in the ash discharge hopper (1); S2, the driving mechanism (2) drives the sampling mechanism (3) to descend, while the detection mechanism (4) collects the moisture value of the limestone and pauses at the preset depth, and the probe assembly (42) collects the compaction resistance value of the limestone; S3. Based on the humidity and compaction resistance values ​​collected in step S2, determine the horizontal position and sampling depth of the sampling point; S4. The driving mechanism (2) drives the sampling mechanism (3) to move to the horizontal position of the sampling point determined in step S3, and drives it to move to the sampling depth determined in step S3. The inner sampling tube (32) is controlled to rotate so that the opening (331) of the sample chamber (33) is connected to the feed port (311) on the outer sampling tube (31) to collect the sample. Then the inner sampling tube (32) is controlled to rotate so that the opening (331) of the sample chamber (33) is not connected to the feed port (311) and the discharge port (312). S5. The driving mechanism (2) drives the sampling mechanism (3) to rise and move to the receiving mechanism (5), controls the inner sampling tube (32) to rotate so that the opening (331) of the sample chamber (33) is connected to the outlet (312) on the outer sampling tube (31), and unloads the sample into the receiving mechanism (5). S6. Repeat S1-S5 above to complete the sampling of limestone at multiple different locations inside the ash silo (1).

8. A sampling method for limestone sampling according to claim 7, characterized in that, Step S2 specifically includes: S21, the driving mechanism (2) drives the sampling mechanism (3) to descend vertically, and the moisture sensor (41) on the outer side of the lower end of the outer sampling tube (31) continuously measures and records the moisture value of limestone at each depth; S22. When the sampling mechanism (3) descends by a preset interval depth or pauses at a specific depth, the first driving unit (421) in the probe assembly (42) drives the probe unit (422) to extend. The pressure sensor at the end of the probe unit (422) measures and records the peak thrust required to push the probe unit (422), which is used as the compaction resistance value of the limestone at that depth point. S23. Repeat the above steps to complete the vertical scanning of several sets of horizontal positions in the ash hopper (1) and obtain a dataset containing position, humidity value and compaction resistance value.

9. A sampling method for limestone sampling according to claim 8, characterized in that, Step S3 specifically includes: S31. Based on the dataset obtained in step S2, select several locations with the highest humidity values ​​from all horizontal locations as priority sampling points. S32. At each priority sampling point, analyze the compaction resistance value along the depth direction, and determine the depth range where the compaction resistance value first appears and continuously exceeds the set threshold as the compaction layer. S33. The horizontal position of the priority sampling point selected in step S31, and the top and bottom depths of the corresponding slab layer determined in step S32, are determined as the final specific sampling position and sampling depth.

10. A sampling method for limestone sampling according to claim 7, characterized in that, Step S5 specifically includes: S51. After the sample collection is completed, the driving mechanism (2) drives the sampling mechanism (3) to rise vertically to the point of detachment from the material surface; S52, the driving mechanism (2) drives the sampling mechanism (3) to move horizontally to directly above the receiving box (52) in the receiving mechanism (5); S53. Control the inner sampling tube (32) to rotate so that the inclined lower end face inside the sample chamber (33) faces the outlet (312) and aligns the opening (331) on the sample chamber (33) with the outlet (312) on the outer sampling tube (31). The sample slides down into the receiving box (52) through the outlet (312) under the action of gravity.

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