Efficient and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro powder extraction and concentration system

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of traditional Chinese medicine extraction and concentration, and discloses an efficient and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro powder extraction and concentration system. Firstly, plant cell walls are fully destroyed through a traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder wall breaking technology, and complete and quantitative conveying of micro-powder materials is ensured in combination with an air pressure balance residue removing system which is arranged in a storage tank and composed of an air disc, an air blowing pipe and an air blowing plug. And secondly, direct contact type hot air heating and stirring are adopted in the extraction tank, and a two-stage dust suppression structure of spraying and wet dust removal is arranged, so that efficient extraction and dust control are realized. And finally, the system recycles the residual components of the decoction dregs through a secondary extraction process, and adopts a membrane filtration and membrane concentration technology to replace the traditional heating concentration, so that the filtration and concentration of the decoction are completed at normal temperature. The method effectively solves the problems of low extraction rate, high energy consumption, easy damage of thermosensitive components and dust pollution in the traditional process, and realizes high efficiency, energy conservation and high quality of production of the traditional Chinese medicine extraction preparation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of traditional Chinese medicine extraction and concentration technology, specifically to a high-efficiency and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) extraction and concentration technology is a crucial link in the modern production of TCM, and its technological level directly affects drug quality, energy consumption, and production costs. While traditional methods are widely used, they have significant limitations and urgently require technological innovation. Generally, TCM extraction and concentration mainly involves three stages: extracting the medicinal liquid, separating the medicinal residue, and concentrating the medicinal liquid.

[0003] In the extraction of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the traditional method typically employs decoction, which involves prolonged heating (such as boiling or reflux) under normal or pressurized conditions using water or organic solvents as a medium to extract the active ingredients. This method relies on energy sources like natural gas and coal for heating, resulting in extremely high energy consumption and low thermal efficiency. More seriously, the cell structure of the medicinal materials is not sufficiently broken down, and the cell wall barrier leads to insufficient dissolution of intracellular active ingredients (such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides), resulting in incomplete extraction. For example, some volatile components (such as peppermint oil and rhubarb alkaloids) are easily decomposed or released under prolonged high temperatures, significantly reducing their efficacy. Studies show that the utilization rate of active ingredients using the traditional decoction method is generally low, leading to a serious waste of medicinal resources. Furthermore, the extract from traditional processes contains many impurities (such as starch, protein, and tannins), placing a heavy burden on subsequent impurity removal.

[0004] In the concentration stage of medicinal liquid, water decoction or vacuum evaporation techniques are commonly used, where heating is used to vaporize the solvent and concentrate the liquid. To comply with environmental regulations, companies are forced to use natural gas for heating, resulting in significant energy consumption. The evaporation process requires maintaining high temperatures, which not only leads to the degradation of heat-sensitive components (such as glycosides and polysaccharides) but also further increases energy consumption and maintenance costs due to equipment scaling and reduced heat transfer efficiency. For example, astragalus polysaccharides are prone to the Maillard reaction during high-temperature concentration, resulting in a darker product color and reduced activity. Traditional concentration processes have low energy efficiency, and residual solvents can easily cause environmental pollution. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies and effectively solve the problems of high energy consumption, low efficiency, and component damage in traditional Chinese medicine extraction and concentration techniques, this invention provides a highly efficient and energy-saving micronized Chinese medicine extraction and concentration system. This system combines ultrafine pulverization with membrane technology, improving cell wall disruption rate and room-temperature concentration efficiency, thus providing conditions for energy conservation, emission reduction, and efficient resource utilization in the Chinese medicine industry.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solutions.

[0007] A highly efficient and energy-saving system for extracting and concentrating micro-powdered traditional Chinese medicine, comprising: Ultrafine crusher is used to break down the cell walls of Chinese medicinal herbs into fine powder. Storage tanks receive and store the micro-powder materials from the ultrafine crusher; The first micro powder extraction tank receives the micro powder material from the storage tank and injects extraction solvent to extract the components of the micro powder material. The primary separation unit receives the material solution output from the first micro powder extraction tank and performs solid-liquid separation on the material solution; The first transfer tank is used to receive the liquid medicine output from the primary separation unit; The secondary separation unit receives the liquid medicine output from the first transfer tank and performs secondary separation on the liquid medicine; The second transfer tank is used to receive the separated liquid from the secondary separation unit; A membrane filtration unit used to receive the pharmaceutical solution output from the second transfer tank; A membrane concentration unit used to receive the drug solution output from a membrane filtration unit.

[0008] Preferably, the ultrafine crusher conveys the material to the dust removal feeder, the dust removal feeder conveys the material to the vacuum feeder, and the vacuum feeder is installed on the storage tank and conveys the material to the storage tank from the lower outlet.

[0009] Preferably, the storage tank includes a cylindrical part and a conical part from top to bottom. The lower discharge port of the storage tank is provided with an air-closed feeder. The discharge port of the air-closed feeder is connected to a horizontally arranged airflow conveying pipe. The airflow conveying pipe is connected to a vortex pump that provides aerodynamic power. The end of the airflow conveying pipe leads to the first micro powder extraction tank.

[0010] The preferred extraction and concentration system further includes a storage tank: Multiple air discs are evenly arranged around the circumference of the conical part of the storage tank near the discharge port. An air blowing pipe is fixedly installed at the upper end of the conical part of the storage tank and extends into its interior, and is located above the air disc. The air blowing pipe is located on the upper side of the pipe section inside the storage tank, and has multiple first air outlets along its axial direction. A blower plug, one end of which is an open end and is fitted onto the end of the air blowing pipe, and multiple second air outlet holes are provided on the outer periphery of its pipe wall and on the closed end face away from the air blowing pipe. The air disc is connected to the air supply system, and the air blowing pipes are all connected to the air outlet of the vortex blower through the air supply pipeline.

[0011] The preferred extraction and concentration system further includes a component installed on the first micronized extraction tank: The direct heating component includes a hot gas distribution pipe disposed inside the first micro powder extraction tank. The hot gas distribution pipe is connected to an external heat source and is used to introduce heating gas into the extract liquid inside the tank to directly heat and stir the extract liquid. The primary dust suppression component includes a spraying device disposed at the top of the first micro powder extraction tank, wherein the spraying direction of the spraying device is toward the lower part of the tank, for forming a water curtain to suppress the upward movement of micro powder; The secondary dust removal component includes a wet scrubber, the air inlet of which is connected to the exhaust port at the top of the first micro powder extraction tank, for purifying the dust-laden gas discharged from the first extraction tank.

[0012] The preferred extraction and concentration system further includes a second micro-powder extraction tank and a first conveying pump. The first conveying pump conveys the residue separated by the primary separation device to the second micro-powder extraction tank. The second micro-powder extraction tank performs secondary extraction on the residue and then conveys it to the feed inlet of the primary separation device.

[0013] Compared with existing technologies, the high-efficiency and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system provided by the present invention, through the integration of advanced technologies such as ultra-micro pulverization, pneumatic conveying and pressure balancing, direct contact heating, secondary extraction and membrane separation concentration, produces the following synergistic and significant beneficial effects: 1. The ultrafine pulverizer pulverizes the medicinal materials into micron-level ultrafine powder, fully breaking down the plant cell walls and completely opening the dissolution channels for the active ingredients within the cells, greatly increasing the contact area with the extract. This not only makes the extraction more thorough, raising the extraction rate of active ingredients to a higher level, but also significantly shortens the extraction time required to reach equilibrium concentration, thereby improving production efficiency. Low-temperature extraction and room-temperature membrane concentration avoid the decomposition or Maillard reaction of heat-sensitive components (such as polysaccharides and glycosides) caused by high-temperature evaporation, ensuring the integrity of the active ingredients and the stability of the efficacy. It also saves the large amount of natural gas or coal energy required for prolonged high-temperature heating in traditional decoction methods. 2. The core advantage of using the membrane concentration module instead of traditional heating evaporation concentration lies in the fact that no phase change is required. Water molecules can be selectively separated through the membrane pores at room temperature or lower, achieving drug concentration. This completely avoids the degradation, inactivation, and browning reactions of heat-sensitive active ingredients (such as glycosides and polysaccharides) caused by prolonged high-temperature heating, maximizing the preservation of efficacy. Simultaneously, this process no longer relies on external heat sources such as natural gas or steam, reducing energy consumption by more than 60% compared to traditional evaporation processes, achieving significant energy savings and eliminating environmental pollution caused by fuel combustion.

[0014] 3. By setting up a second extraction tank and conveying the residue separated by the primary separation device to it for secondary extraction, the effective components remaining in the residue after the primary extraction can be further extracted. This design increases the utilization rate of medicinal materials to a high level, reduces solid waste emissions and the waste of valuable medicinal resources, and meets the requirements of green and sustainable development.

[0015] 4. On the one hand, the residue removal system, consisting of air discs, air pipes, and air plugs, installed inside the storage tank, effectively balances the leakage pressure of the closed-loop feeder and actively blows away residues on the tank wall, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the material ratio for each batch. On the other hand, the spray device and wet dust collector installed at the top of the extraction tank form a two-stage dust suppression system, effectively suppressing and capturing rising fine powder, solving the safety hazards of dust explosions and workshop pollution problems, and protecting the health and safety of operators and ensuring safe production.

[0016] 5. By installing a hot gas distribution pipe at the bottom of the first extraction tank that is directly immersed in the medicinal liquid, direct contact heating is adopted, which has a much higher thermal efficiency than traditional jacket or coil indirect heating. At the same time, the injected hot gas generates a strong stirring effect on the medicinal liquid during its ascent, making the temperature and concentration fields inside the tank more uniform. This avoids local overheating, enhances the mass transfer process, and further promotes the rapid dissolution of active ingredients.

[0017] In summary, this invention, through systematic integrated innovation, solves a series of key technical problems in traditional Chinese medicine extraction and concentration processes, such as high energy consumption, low efficiency, severe component damage, and large waste of raw materials, and provides a modern Chinese medicine production technology path that is efficient, energy-saving, high-quality, and clean. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main structure of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of the storage tank of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of the first micro-powder extraction tank of the present invention. Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the hot gas distribution pipe 4 of the present invention.

[0019] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100 for ultrafine crusher, 101 for dust removal and feeding machine; Storage tank 200, vacuum feeder 201, cylindrical section 202, conical section 203, closed-loop feeder 204, airflow conveying pipe 205, vortex blower 206, air disc 207, air blowing pipe 208, first air outlet 209, air blowing plug 210, second air outlet 211, first air collecting chamber 212, second air collecting chamber 213, first conduit 214, second conduit 215, first shut-off valve 216, third conduit 217, second shut-off valve 218, fourth conduit 219, third shut-off valve 220; First micro powder extraction tank 300, hot gas distribution pipe 301, main pipe 301a, branch pipe 301b, spray device 302, wet dust collector 303, stirring device 304, rotating rod 304a, stirring blade 304b, geared motor 304c, liquid pipeline 305. 400 primary separation unit; First transfer tank: 500; Membrane filtration module 600; Membrane concentration module 700; Second micron powder extraction tank 800, first transfer pump 801, second transfer pump 802; Secondary separation unit 900; Second transfer tank 1000. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0021] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and are not limited in number; for example, a first object can be one 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.

[0022] It should be noted that in the description of this application, the directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this application. The directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0023] It should be noted that the scope of the methods and apparatus in the embodiments of this application is not limited to performing functions in the order shown or discussed, but may also include performing functions in a substantially simultaneous manner or in the reverse order, depending on the functions involved. For example, the described methods may be performed in a different order than described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. In addition, features described with reference to certain examples may be combined in other examples.

[0024] Example 1 discloses a highly efficient and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system. Its core lies in constructing a continuous, closed, efficient, and energy-saving modern traditional Chinese medicine production process. The rationality of its technical solution and its comprehensive benefits will be analyzed step-by-step in conjunction with this process.

[0025] I. Process Flow The process flow described in this embodiment is as follows: "ultrafine powder crushing of medicinal materials → temporary storage of materials → primary extraction → primary separation → secondary separation → membrane filtration → membrane concentration → output of finished product".

[0026] Front-end processing: Starting with "ultra-fine crushing of medicinal materials," an ultra-fine crusher 100 is first used to physically break down the cell wall structure of the medicinal materials, which lays an indispensable physical foundation for subsequent efficient extraction. The broken-cell-wall powder material is temporarily stored in a sealed storage tank 200, effectively solving the problem of dust easily escaping and polluting the environment, and ensuring continuous and quantitative supply to the extraction section.

[0027] The core process is seamlessly integrated: After initial extraction in the first micro-powder extraction tank 300, solid-liquid separation is immediately performed in the primary separation unit 400. This ensures that the dissolved active ingredients are quickly transferred to the subsequent refining stage, minimizing the residence time of heat-sensitive components in the high-temperature solution and promoting component stability. The separated solution enters the first transfer tank 500, which not only serves as a buffer and temporary storage but, more importantly, provides stable feed conditions for the subsequent membrane treatment stage. The solution output from the primary separation unit 400 passes through the second transfer tank 500 and then enters the secondary separation unit 900. After further separation, it enters the membrane filter module 600 through the second transfer tank 1000.

[0028] In this embodiment, the primary separation unit 400 (solids removal) uses a screw centrifuge, a continuous sedimentation centrifuge, to perform coarse separation of the material. Its main goal is to quickly and massively separate most of the solid residue from the extracted medicinal liquid. The secondary separation unit 900 (fine clarification) uses a disc centrifuge to perform fine separation of the material. Its main goal is to remove submicron-sized fine particles and colloids that remain in the medicinal liquid after passing through the screw centrifuge.

[0029] Back-end purification and concentration: The membrane filtration module 600 and the membrane concentration module 700 are connected in series as the final purification and concentration method. Membrane filtration effectively removes large molecular impurities (such as starch, protein, and colloids) from the drug solution at room temperature, greatly reducing the burden on subsequent processes and improving the purity of the finished product; membrane concentration directly removes water at room temperature, fundamentally abandoning the traditional concentration mode that relies on heating and evaporation.

[0030] II. Beneficial Effects of the Process in this Embodiment 1. Improved extraction efficiency and extraction rate. The "cell wall disruption of Chinese medicinal materials" increases the contact area between the solid and liquid phases, while the subsequent extraction and separation devices ensure rapid and sufficient mass and heat transfer. This combined process can significantly improve the dissolution rate and final yield of active ingredients (especially intracellular components), solving the core pain points of incomplete extraction and low efficiency of active ingredients in traditional decoction methods.

[0031] 2. A low-temperature production environment was established throughout the process to preserve the efficacy of the medicine to the greatest extent. Starting with solid-liquid separation, the medicinal solution is processed through a transfer tank, membrane filtration, and finally membrane concentration at room temperature or lower. This process completely avoids the prolonged high-temperature heating process associated with traditional water decoction and vacuum evaporation, playing a crucial role in protecting heat-sensitive components and ensuring the final drug's intrinsic quality and efficacy.

[0032] 3. Significant energy-saving and consumption-reducing effects have been achieved. The energy saving in this process is reflected in two aspects: First, in the extraction stage, the micronization technology improves the extraction efficiency, which can shorten the heating time or reduce the extraction temperature accordingly; second, in the concentration stage, the membrane concentration technology does not require phase change, and its energy consumption is much lower than that of traditional evaporators that require a large amount of latent heat of vaporization, resulting in a reduction in overall energy consumption and operating costs.

[0033] 4. It ensures the continuity, automation, and cleanliness of the production process. This process tightly connects each unit of equipment through pipelines and pumps / valve, allowing materials to flow within a closed system. By achieving fully automated control of the entire process (DCS or PLC system), manual intervention is reduced, ensuring batch-to-batch quality stability. Simultaneously, the fully enclosed design eliminates dust and impurity contamination, fully complying with GMP clean production requirements.

[0034] III. The production process of this embodiment is as follows: After being processed into micro powder by the ultra-micro crusher 100, the Chinese medicinal materials are transported to the storage tank 200. The storage tank 200 feeds the micro powder quantitatively and continuously into the first micro powder extraction tank 300 through the closed-loop feeder 204 and the airflow conveying pipe 205 at a set speed. Inside the first micro powder extraction tank 300, the micro powder and extraction solvent are thoroughly mixed and extracted under the stirring of directly introduced hot gas. After extraction, the mixture is pumped into a primary separation unit 400 (such as a spiral centrifuge), and the separated liquid enters the first transfer tank 500. The liquid medicine in the first transfer tank 500 is pumped into the membrane filtration module 600 (such as an ultrafiltration membrane) and the membrane concentration module 700 (such as a nanofiltration or reverse osmosis membrane) in sequence to finally obtain a high-purity concentrated liquid medicine product.

[0035] In Example 2, based on Example 1, the ultrafine crusher 100 conveys the material to the dust removal feeder 101, the dust removal feeder 101 conveys the material to the vacuum feeder 201, and the vacuum feeder 201 is installed on the storage tank 200 and conveys the material to the storage tank 200 from the lower outlet.

[0036] I. The design of this three-stage tandem feeding structure (ultra-fine crusher 100 → dust removal feeder 101 → vacuum feeder 201 → storage tank 200) is highly functional and rational: The outlet of the ultrafine crusher (100mm) is the first high-incidence point for dust generation. Immediately connecting a conveyor system with both sealing and dust removal functions at this point can capture and suppress the vast majority of dust generated during the crushing process. As a "pre-treatment station," it initially collects loose, easily dispersed fine powder and stably conveys it to the next stage, preventing the diffuse dispersion of dust.

[0037] The 201 vacuum feeder utilizes negative pressure airflow as its power source and is the core of the entire feeding system. Its fully enclosed conveying pipeline fundamentally solves the problem of dust dispersion during long-distance, vertical, or horizontal conveying. This equipment is particularly suitable for powder materials such as traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder, which are lightweight, have good flowability, and are prone to static electricity generation. Its conveying process is gentle and has minimal impact on the material properties.

[0038] II. Usage Status Description of this Embodiment The workflow of this three-level feeding system is as follows: Start-up and initial feeding phase: The ultrafine crusher 100 is started, and the crushed material enters the dust removal and feeding machine 101; When the dust removal and feeding machine 101 starts, while conveying materials in a closed system, its built-in dust removal system (such as an integrated small bag filter) starts working to collect the overflowing dust. The dust removal feeder 101 stably feeds the material into the vacuum feeder 201.

[0039] Vacuum transport cycle stage: The vacuum feeder 101 operates automatically according to a preset program: First, the vacuum pump starts, generating negative pressure in the hopper to suck in the material; after the material is sucked in, the air inlet valve opens, breaking the vacuum, and the material, under the action of gravity or positive pressure, smoothly enters the storage tank 200 through the discharge valve below and through the pipe connected to the lower side or bottom of the storage tank 200.

[0040] This cycle repeats until the material level in the storage tank reaches the set height, at which point a stop signal is sent.

[0041] Example 3, based on Example 1 or 2, specifies the micro-powder conveying and residue prevention structure between the storage tank 200 and the first micro-powder extraction tank 300. This structure ensures that the micro-powder can be quantitatively, continuously, and completely conveyed to the extraction section, and its specific composition is as follows: I. Specific Structure of This Embodiment An airtight discharge device 204 (rotary valve) is installed between the storage tank 200 (a silo with a certain static pressure) and the pneumatic conveying pipe 205 (with negative or positive pressure). Its core function is to act as a mechanical seal barrier while continuously discharging materials, blocking the direct airflow between the storage tank 200 and the pneumatic conveying pipe 205, thereby maintaining the necessary pressure balance in all parts of the system and ensuring stable material discharge.

[0042] Pneumatic conveying is used to process fine powder materials. The horizontally arranged pneumatic conveying pipe 205, together with the high-speed airflow generated by the vortex blower 206, can realize long-distance, high-efficiency, and fully enclosed conveying of fine powder, avoiding the problems of dust dispersion, cross-contamination and cleaning difficulties that may occur with traditional mechanical conveying (such as screw conveyors).

[0043] This structure is a solution to the inherent defect (air leakage in the gap) of the closed-loop feeder 204. Its components have clearly defined functions. The storage tank 200, from top to bottom, includes a cylindrical section 202 and a conical section 203. The layout of the storage tank 200 is as follows: Multiple circumferentially distributed air discs 207 are arranged around the discharge port of the cone section 203, the "problem area" most prone to material accumulation. The air discs 207 can generate high-speed, concentrated flat jets, which can precisely and powerfully cut and remove the caking material layer attached to the tank wall like a "scalpel," making it the most efficient means to deal with local accumulation.

[0044] Multiple first air outlets 209 opened along the axis of the air blowing pipe 208 form a linear "airflow curtain". Its main function is not to powerfully blow away the air, but to continuously fluidize and loosen the material passing through the central area of ​​the tank, and to initially replenish the gas into the tank.

[0045] The multi-directional (end and circumferential) second air outlet 211 structure of the blower plug 210 makes it a three-dimensional "micro-airflow generator". It transforms the linear airflow from the blower pipe 208 into a gentle airflow that radiates upward, downward, left and right and forward. On the one hand, it enhances the fluidization effect on the central material, and on the other hand, it extends the range of action to the upper space of the tank, achieving more comprehensive airflow coverage.

[0046] II. Beneficial Effects of the Structure in This Embodiment The above structures work together to form a synergistic system that combines points and surfaces, producing beneficial effects that cannot be achieved by a single technology: 1. This system employs a three-dimensional combination of "point clearing" (air disc 207), "linear fluidization" (air blowing pipe 208), and "surface agitation" (air blowing plug 210) to achieve comprehensive airflow intervention throughout the entire storage tank 200, from the tank wall to the center and from the bottom to the top. This ensures that each batch of material is completely and thoroughly transported to the first micro-powder extraction tank 300, fundamentally eliminating cross-contamination and inaccurate proportioning problems caused by material residue. Simultaneously, multiple first air outlets 209 at the upper end of the air blowing pipe 208 can blow away any material remaining on the upper part of the pipe.

[0047] 2. The stable airflow introduced by the combination of the air blowing pipe 208 and the air blowing plug 210 constitutes an active and controllable "reverse pressure" that can precisely counteract the upward airflow leaking into the tank from the gap of the closed-loop feeder 204. This directly eliminates the "air cushion" effect that hinders the falling of micro powder, creating a gravity flow environment for the material and ensuring the continuity and stability of the conveying process.

[0048] 3. The entire residue removal system does not require an additional independent air compressor or fan, utilizing the existing vortex blower 206 in the system as a power source. This not only reduces the system's manufacturing costs and operating energy consumption but also simplifies the equipment structure and piping layout.

[0049] The start / stop and airflow magnitude of the air disc 207 and air blowing pipe 208 can be automatically controlled by valves and integrated into the PLC or DCS control system of the entire extraction line. It can realize timed and quantitative purging, or automatically trigger the residue cleaning program according to material level signals and pressure signals, truly realizing unmanned intelligent operation in this link, improving production efficiency and process reliability.

[0050] III. Usage Status Description The operation of this system can be divided into two main stages according to process requirements: 1. Normal material feeding stage: The closed-air feeder 204 rotates at a set speed, and the material falls into the airflow conveying pipe 205 by gravity and is transported to the first micro powder extraction tank 300 by the airflow generated by the vortex pump 206. During this stage, only the air blowing pipe 208 can be opened to inject a low-flow balancing airflow into the tank as a precautionary measure to balance the air pressure and ensure smooth material flow. The air disc 207 can be temporarily deactivated to save energy.

[0051] 2. Batch end cleaning phase: Once the main material flow is completed, the control system automatically triggers the cleaning and blowing program.

[0052] Simultaneously, the air supply lines of the air disc 207 and the air blowing pipe 208 are opened. The high-speed jet generated by the air disc 207 thoroughly cleans the tank wall; the air blowing pipe 208 and the air blowing plug 210 fluidize the material in the center and balance the air pressure. This high-intensity blowing, lasting for a preset short time (e.g., 15-30 seconds), can clean up all residual micro-powder in the can, preparing it for the next batch.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the system further includes a first air collecting chamber 212 and a second air collecting chamber 213; multiple air discs 207 are connected to the first air collecting chamber 212 via multiple first conduits 214; the first air collecting chamber 212 is connected to the second air collecting chamber 213 via a second conduit 215 and a first shut-off valve 216; and the second air collecting chamber 213 is connected to the air outlet of the vortex pump 206.

[0054] The end of the air blowing pipe 208 located outside the storage tank 200 is connected to a third conduit 217, which is connected to the second air collecting chamber 213 via a second shut-off valve 218.

[0055] The pneumatic conveying pipe 205 is connected to a fourth conduit 219, which is connected to the second gas collecting chamber 213 via a third shut-off valve 220.

[0056] The opening and closing of the air blowing pipe 208 and the air disc 207, as well as the airflow magnitude, can be independently controlled via the second shut-off valve 218 and the first shut-off valve 216. When only pressure balancing is required, the air blowing pipe 208 can be opened alone; when strong wall cleaning is needed, the airflow of the air disc 207 can be opened or increased. This avoids energy waste and achieves precise process control.

[0057] Example 4, based on Example 1, further includes an extraction and concentration system installed on the first micronized powder extraction tank 300: The direct heating component includes a hot gas distribution pipe 301 disposed inside the first micro powder extraction tank 300. The hot gas distribution pipe 301 is connected to an external heat source and is used to introduce heating gas into the extract liquid inside the tank to directly heat and stir the extract liquid. The primary dust suppression component includes a spraying device 302 disposed at the top of the first micro powder extraction tank 300. The spraying direction of the spraying device 302 is towards the lower part of the tank, which is used to form a water curtain to suppress dust from rising. The secondary dust removal component includes a wet scrubber 303, whose inlet is connected to the exhaust port at the top of the first micro powder extraction tank 300, for purifying the dust-laden gas discharged from the first micro powder extraction tank 300. A stirring device 304 is used to stir the medicinal liquid in the extraction tank. It includes a vertically arranged rotating rod 304a. The lower end of the rotating rod 304a is equipped with stirring blades 304b. The rotating rod 304a is rotatably installed in the first micro powder extraction tank 300, and the upper end of the rotating rod 304a extends upward out of the tank body of the first micro powder extraction tank 300 and is connected to a power mechanism, such as a geared motor 304c, to drive the rotating rod to drive the stirring blades to rotate and stir the medicinal liquid.

[0058] A liquid pipeline 305 is connected to the first micro-powder extraction tank 300 of the extraction tank body and is used to transport the extraction solvent into the first micro-powder extraction tank 300; the liquid pipeline 305 also extends into the tank, and its inlet end is connected to the extractant supply device (such as a storage tank or water pump). To address the issue of dust-laden vapor generated during the feeding and heating of micro-powder, this embodiment employs a two-stage dust removal scheme that combines primary dust suppression with secondary purification.

[0059] Primary dust suppression component (spray device 302): The downward spray forms a water curtain that covers the area where fine dust falls, directly wetting, capturing, and carrying most of the upward-moving dust particles back into the liquid phase in the early stages of dispersion, thus greatly reducing the amount of dust emitted at the source. After the primary spray treatment, the dust concentration in the gas entering the subsequent wet scrubber 303 is significantly reduced, thereby significantly alleviating the processing pressure on the secondary dust collection components.

[0060] Secondary dust collection assembly (wet scrubber 303): This assembly includes a wet scrubber 303, which is connected to the exhaust port at the top of the first fine powder extraction tank 300. The wet scrubber 303 has a natural advantage in handling moist, sticky dust. The wet scrubber 303 can efficiently capture fine dust that has penetrated the primary water curtain, resulting in high-cleanliness exhaust gas, completely solving the dust pollution problem in the workshop environment and ensuring the occupational health and safety of operators.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the hot gas distribution pipe 301 consists of a main pipe 301a and several branch pipes 301b. The main pipe 301a serves as a hot gas transport channel, extending into the first micro-powder extraction tank 300 from the upper or side portion. The branch pipes 301b are connected to the main pipe 301a and have multiple tiny pores evenly distributed on their walls. This "main pipe + branch pipe" structure, compared to a single straight pipe, allows for a more widespread and uniform distribution of hot gas across the cross-section of the extraction tank. The multiple pores on the branch pipes 301b disperse a concentrated gas flow into numerous tiny bubbles. These tiny bubbles have a larger total specific surface area, significantly increasing the contact area between the gas and liquid phases, thereby greatly enhancing heat and mass transfer efficiency. Simultaneously, the rising of numerous fine bubbles generates a gentler and more uniform stirring force, preventing severe impact on any micro-powder material that may have settled at the bottom of the tank, thus avoiding secondary dust generation.

[0062] As a further optimization of this embodiment, the branch pipes 301b are arranged in a ring at the bottom or lower part of the first micro-powder extraction tank 300. Placing the heat release point at the bottom of the tank ensures that heating and stirring effects cover the entire bottom area, which is the most prone area for material deposition. The ring layout allows heat release and fluid disturbance to be centrally symmetrical on the horizontal cross-section of the tank, laying the structural foundation for forming a uniform flow field and temperature field.

[0063] In a more preferred embodiment, the main pipe 301a has an annular portion inside the first micro-powder extraction tank 300, which is fixed to the inner wall of the first micro-powder extraction tank 300 by means of a bracket or the like. A plurality of branch pipes 301b are radially and evenly distributed circumferentially on the inner surface of the annular portion. Preferably, the branch pipes 301b are not placed completely radially, but rather their axes are inclined at a predetermined angle to the tangent direction of the annular portion.

[0064] When all branch pipes 301b are tilted in the same direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise), the hot air ejected from the ends of each branch pipe 301b and the vents will generate a resultant force tangentially along the tank wall. This resultant force will drive the liquid inside the tank to rotate in a circular motion, forming a stable "vortex". This large-scale vortex field can generate a strong centrifugal force, which can effectively move the material in all areas of the tank bottom, completely eliminate dead zones in stirring, prevent the deposition of fine powder, and ensure that the material is always in a uniform suspension state, thereby significantly improving extraction efficiency and effect. The strong vortex ensures rapid energy exchange between different parts of the liquid inside the tank, so that the heat input from the bottom can be quickly carried to the entire container, minimizing the temperature gradient in the vertical and horizontal directions.

[0065] As a preferred embodiment, the spraying device 302 includes an atomizing nozzle located at the upper part of the first micro-powder extraction tank 300. The atomizing nozzle is connected to a water pump via a water supply pipeline, and the water pump provides a constant water supply pressure.

[0066] The atomizing nozzle can form a covering umbrella-shaped water curtain on the cross-section of the top of the tank, ensuring that the rising dust is effectively captured by the water curtain, eliminating dust suppression dead zones and greatly improving the reliability of primary dust suppression.

[0067] Example 5, based on Example 1, the extraction and concentration system further includes a second micro powder extraction tank 800 and a first conveying pump 801. The first conveying pump 801 conveys the medicinal residue separated by the primary separation device 400 to the second micro powder extraction tank 800. The second micro powder extraction tank 800 performs secondary extraction on the medicinal residue and then conveys it to the feed inlet of the primary separation device 400.

[0068] The workflow of this system is as follows: 1) Initial extraction: The medicinal materials are extracted in the first micro-powder extraction tank 300; 2) Primary separation: The mixture is fed into the primary separation device 400, the liquid medicine is collected into the liquid medicine receiving container, and the residue medicine enters the residue collection tank; 3) Pulping: In the slag collection tank, the liquid injected into the slag through the liquid injection pipe forms a uniform slurry under the action of the stirring components; 4) Secondary extraction: The slurry is stably transported to the second micro powder extraction tank 800 by the first delivery pump 801 for secondary extraction; 5) Secondary separation and recycling: The mixture after secondary extraction is sent to the primary separation unit 400 for separation again. The liquid medicine is collected into the liquid medicine receiving container, while the residue produced this time, whose effective ingredients have been greatly reduced, is discharged from the system as waste.

[0069] This embodiment fundamentally solves the problems of blockage and residue in the conveying of medicinal residue: it replaces the "scraper feeder" with a combination of "stirring and slurry preparation + screw pump conveying" (medicinal residue collection component + first conveying pump). The synergistic effect of the stirring component and the liquid injection pipeline transforms the physical form from a viscous solid to a homogeneous fluid, completely eliminating the basis for material adhesion on the conveying equipment. It achieves a fully closed and continuous pipeline conveying process, avoiding frequent shutdowns for cleaning due to blockages, greatly improving the continuous operation time and production efficiency of the equipment, while reducing material loss.

[0070] This embodiment improves the efficiency and extraction rate of secondary extraction: by preparing the medicinal residue into a slurry before secondary extraction, the contact area and mass transfer efficiency between the active ingredients in the residue and the solvent are greatly increased. Compared to directly adding lumpy or clumpy medicinal residue into the extraction tank, the slurry material is easier to extract fully and quickly, thereby deeply exploring the residual value of the medicinal residue, significantly improving the total extraction rate of the target product, and reducing raw material costs.

[0071] Preferably, the material outlets of the first micro-powder extraction tank 300 and the second micro-powder extraction tank 800 are connected to the inlet of the primary separation device 400 via the second conveying pump 802, and the same conveying pump is used to convey the material output from the two extraction tanks.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the first transfer tank 500 conveys the material to the secondary separation unit 900 for secondary solid-liquid separation. The secondary separation unit 900 then conveys the separated liquid to the membrane filtration module 600.

[0073] A secondary fine separation is performed on the drug solution after the initial separation to further remove extremely fine powder particles and insoluble impurities, significantly improving the purity and clarity of the solution. By removing more solid impurities in advance, the processing pressure on the subsequent membrane filtration module 600 is effectively reduced, significantly decreasing the rate of membrane fouling and cleaning frequency, and extending the membrane's service life.

[0074] The secondary separation unit 900 can be equipped with a disc centrifuge. Disc centrifuges have the advantages of continuous feeding and discharging, high separation factor, and large throughput, which can realize the rapid and efficient separation of materials and ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the entire system.

Claims

1. A highly efficient and energy-saving system for extracting and concentrating micro-powdered traditional Chinese medicine, characterized in that, include: Ultrafine crusher (100) is used to break down the cell walls of Chinese medicinal herbs into fine powder materials; Storage tank (200) receives and stores the micro powder material from the ultrafine crusher (100); The first micro powder extraction tank (300) receives micro powder material from the storage tank (200) and injects extraction solvent to extract the components of the micro powder material. The primary separation unit (400) receives the material solution output from the first micro powder extraction tank (300) and performs solid-liquid separation on the material solution; The first transfer tank (500) is used to receive the output liquid from the primary separation unit (400). The secondary separation unit (900) receives the liquid medicine output from the first transfer tank (500) and performs secondary separation on the liquid medicine; The second transfer tank (1000) is used to receive the separated liquid from the secondary separation unit (900); Membrane filtration unit (600) for receiving the output liquid from the second transfer tank (1000). A membrane concentrator (700) for receiving the drug solution output from the membrane filtration unit (600).

2. The high-efficiency and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrafine crusher (100) conveys the material to the dust removal feeder (101), the dust removal feeder (101) conveys the material to the vacuum feeder (201), the vacuum feeder (201) is installed on the storage tank (200) and conveys the material to the storage tank (200) from the lower outlet.

3. The high-efficiency and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The storage tank (200) includes a cylindrical part (202) and a conical part (203) from top to bottom. The storage tank (200) is equipped with a closed-air feeder (204) at the lower discharge port. The discharge port of the closed-air feeder (204) is connected to a horizontally arranged airflow conveying pipe (205). The airflow conveying pipe (205) is connected to a vortex blower (206) that provides aerodynamic power. The end of the airflow conveying pipe (205) leads to the first micro powder extraction tank (300).

4. The high-efficiency and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The extraction and concentration system also includes a storage tank (200) installed on it: Multiple air discs (207) are evenly arranged circumferentially along the conical portion (203) of the storage tank (200) near the discharge port; An air blowing pipe (208) is fixedly installed on the upper end of the conical part (203) of the storage tank (200) and extends into its interior, and is located above the air butterfly (207). The air blowing pipe (208) is located on the upper side of the pipe section inside the storage tank (200), and has multiple first air outlets (209) along its axial direction. A blower plug (210) has an open end and is fitted onto the end of the blower pipe (208). Multiple second air outlet holes (211) are provided on the outer periphery of the pipe wall and the closed end face away from the blower pipe (208). The air disc (207) is connected to the air supply system, and the air blowing pipe (208) is connected to the air outlet of the vortex air pump (206) through the air supply pipeline.

5. The high-efficiency and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extraction and concentration system also includes a first micronized extraction tank (300) installed on it: The direct heating component includes a hot gas distribution pipe (301) disposed inside the first micro powder extraction tank (300). The hot gas distribution pipe (301) is connected to an external heat source and is used to introduce heating gas into the extract liquid inside the tank to directly heat and stir the extract liquid. The primary dust suppression component includes a spray device (302) disposed at the top of the first micro powder extraction tank (300), wherein the spray direction of the spray device (302) is toward the lower part of the tank, and is used to form a water curtain to suppress the upward movement of micro powder. The secondary dust removal assembly includes a wet scrubber (303) whose inlet is connected to the exhaust port at the top of the first micro powder extraction tank (300) for purifying the dust-laden gas discharged from the first extraction tank (300).

6. The high-efficiency and energy-saving traditional Chinese medicine micro-powder extraction and concentration system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The extraction and concentration system also includes a second micro powder extraction tank (800) and a first conveying pump (801). The first conveying pump (801) conveys the medicinal residue separated by the primary separation device (400) to the second micro powder extraction tank (800). The second micro powder extraction tank (800) performs secondary extraction on the medicinal residue and then conveys it to the feed inlet of the primary separation device (400).

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