Candy casting test machine

Abstract

This application discloses a candy casting testing machine, belonging to the field of candy casting experimental technology. It includes a frame, a power drive device, a casting assembly, a mold drive device, and a control system. The casting assembly is mounted on the frame and includes a first hopper, a second hopper, a valve body, and a valve core. The valve body has two independent first and second injection channels. The power drive device includes a drive assembly, a first connecting rod, a second connecting rod, and multiple pump assemblies. Pump assemblies connected to the first injection channel are detachably connected to the first connecting rod, and pump assemblies connected to the second injection channel are detachably connected to the second connecting rod. The drive assembly is connected to the first and second connecting rods respectively, and its operation drives the first and / or second connecting rods to move up and down. The casting quantity can be adjusted as needed to reduce material waste, and the machine has a compact structure and is easy to maintain, meeting the needs of small-batch testing during the R&D stage.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of candy pouring experimental technology, and in particular to a candy pouring testing machine. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of candy production and processing, the development of new formulas usually requires small-batch casting tests to verify key indicators such as taste and molding effect. Therefore, miniaturized and highly flexible candy casting test machines have become the core equipment in the research and development process.

[0003] Currently, there are some improved solutions for candy casting equipment in the prior art. For example, Chinese patent application CN223694833U discloses a small soft candy filling integrated casting machine. This technical solution includes a conveying mechanism, a machine base, a casting device, and no fewer than two hoppers. The conveying mechanism is mounted on the machine base and is used to convey the mold. Each hopper and casting device is installed on the machine base and located above the conveyor belt. Each hopper is used to store different materials. The casting device includes at least one filling spout and several quantitative feeding components corresponding to each hopper. The filling spout is connected to each quantitative feeding component. The quantitative feeding component quantitatively extracts the material in the corresponding hopper and pushes it into the filling spout for discharge. With the unique quantitative feeding component and the filling spout working together, the core material and the shell material are injected and molded simultaneously, which significantly improves production efficiency and ensures that the overall structure of the soft candy is more compact. This not only improves the appearance quality of the product but also enhances its taste and stability, making it more competitive in the market.

[0004] While these devices are miniaturized, they still require batch casting for candy production. Operators cannot adjust the casting quantity and must input enough raw materials to meet the batch casting requirements, failing to reduce material waste and improve the economic efficiency of the experiment. Furthermore, the complex power unit structure of existing casting equipment leads to excessively high costs and inconvenient maintenance, and it cannot adequately meet the miniaturized and flexible usage requirements of the testing machine. Existing automated candy casting and molding devices are mostly designed for large-scale production scenarios.

[0005] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a candy pouring test machine that can adjust the pouring quantity as needed to reduce the loss of test materials, has a compact structure, and is easy to maintain, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems existing in the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The technical problem to be solved by this application is to provide a candy pouring test machine that can adjust the pouring quantity as needed to reduce the loss of test materials, and has a compact structure and is easy to maintain, which meets the needs of small-batch testing in the research and development stage.

[0007] The technical solution adopted in this application is: a candy casting test machine, including a frame, a power drive device, a casting component, a mold drive device, and a control system; the casting component is installed on the frame and includes a first hopper, a second hopper, a valve body, and a valve core. The first hopper and the second hopper are independently installed on both sides of the valve body. The valve body is provided with two sets of independent first injection channels and second injection channels. The first injection channel is connected to the first hopper, and the second injection channel is connected to the second hopper. The power drive device includes a drive assembly, a first connecting rod, a second connecting rod, and multiple pump body assemblies. Each first injection channel and each second injection channel is connected to a pump body assembly. The pump body assemblies connected to the first injection channel are detachably connected to the first connecting rod, and the pump body assemblies connected to the second injection channel are detachably connected to the second connecting rod. The drive assembly is driven to move the first connecting rod and / or the second connecting rod up and down.

[0008] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this application are as follows: First, the casting quantity can be adjusted as needed, thereby reducing test losses. The pump body components connected to the first injection channel are detachably connected to the first connecting rod, and the pump body components connected to the second injection channel are detachably connected to the second connecting rod. The corresponding number of pump body components can be selectively installed according to test requirements, without needing to adapt to fixed batch casting requirements. No raw materials required for batch casting are needed; casting of any quantity required for single-piece or small-batch tests can be achieved, precisely matching the small-batch test needs during the R&D stage, directly reducing material waste from a structural perspective.

[0009] Secondly, the first and second hoppers are independent of each other, and the valve body is equipped with two independent first and second injection channels, which are respectively driven by the first and second connecting rods to operate the corresponding pump components. This allows for independent control of the conveying and pouring of two different raw materials (such as skin and core materials, or different formula syrups) without the need for additional switching mechanisms. This adapts to the small-batch testing needs of multi-formula, multi-flavor candies, improving the equipment's testing adaptability.

[0010] The drive assembly can drive the first and second connecting rods to move up and down individually or simultaneously, enabling flexible switching between various test modes such as single-material casting and simultaneous dual-material casting. No complex timing control is required; adaptation to different test scenarios can be achieved simply by controlling the connecting rods through the drive assembly. The operation logic is simple, reducing the difficulty of test operation.

[0011] Finally, the dual hoppers and dual injection channels of the casting assembly, along with the dual connecting rods of the power drive unit and the detachable pump body assembly, form a modular layout. This eliminates redundant external piping and complex linkage mechanisms, resulting in a compact overall structure that meets the miniaturization requirements of the testing machine. The pump body assembly and connecting rods are detachably connected, allowing for individual replacement of worn or faulty components when needed, eliminating the need to replace the entire power drive unit or casting assembly, thus reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

[0012] In some embodiments of this application, the drive assembly includes two sets of drive motors, the output ends of which are all connected to drive shafts, and the drive shafts are keyed to cam assemblies; the two cam assemblies are respectively connected to the first link and the second link; a slide rail assembly is vertically arranged on the frame, the first link and the second link are both horizontally arranged, and the two ends of the first link and the two ends of the second link are respectively mounted on corresponding slide rails, which restrict the first link and the second link from moving up and down in the vertical direction.

[0013] Two sets of drive motors and two cam assemblies respectively drive the first and second connecting rods, enabling independent or synchronous operation of the two connecting rods to meet the power requirements of different test scenarios such as single-material and dual-material testing. The two ends of the connecting rods are mounted on vertical slide rails, which restrict their movement to the vertical direction only, preventing the connecting rods from deviating and causing deviations in the pump body assembly, thus ensuring the accuracy of material injection.

[0014] In some embodiments of this application, the pump body assembly includes a pump tube and a pump rod. The lower part of the pump rod is installed inside the pump tube, and the top of the pump rod extends out of the pump tube. The pump rod is detachably connected to a first connecting rod or a second connecting rod. A connecting block is detachably connected to one side of the first connecting rod and one side of the second connecting rod. A T-shaped slot is provided on the connecting block, and the T-shaped slot extends through the first end face of the connecting block. The top of the pump rod is a T-shaped structural component adapted to the T-shaped slot, and the top of the pump rod is inserted into the T-shaped slot. The first end face of the connecting block is fitted with one side of the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod. The first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, and the connecting block are detachably connected by bolts.

[0015] The pump rod and connecting rod are engaged with a T-shaped structural component and a T-shaped slot for quick positioning and assembly. Combined with bolted connecting blocks, this design balances ease of assembly and disassembly with connection stability. The T-shaped structure restricts radial displacement of the pump rod, ensuring stable axial movement and preventing pump rod misalignment during injection, which could affect injection accuracy. The pump body assembly and connecting rod are detachably connected, allowing for the addition or removal of pump bodies as needed to flexibly adapt to different injection volume requirements. Individual pump body components can be replaced individually when worn or malfunctioning, reducing maintenance costs.

[0016] In some embodiments of this application, a temperature control element is installed above the valve body, and an installation groove is formed on the top surface of the valve body. A connector is detachably installed in the installation groove. The lower end of the pump body assembly passes through the temperature control element and is inserted into the connector. The pump pipe is sealed to the connector. A circulation channel is provided inside the temperature control element. An inlet and an outlet are respectively provided at both ends of the circulation channel. A heat-conducting liquid is circulated in the circulation channel.

[0017] The internal circulation channel of the temperature control component carries the heat-conducting liquid, allowing direct temperature control of the pump body components. This prevents the syrup from solidifying or losing fluidity due to temperature fluctuations, ensuring smooth material delivery. The mounting groove on the top of the valve body allows for the detachable installation of connectors. The pump pipe and connectors are sealed together, facilitating connector removal and replacement while ensuring a tight seal between the pump body and valve body, minimizing material leakage.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the circulation channel includes at least one hot runner and at least one return runner, the hot runner is connected to the inlet, the return runner is connected to the outlet, the hot runner and the return runner are connected, and the lower end of the pump assembly is located inside the hot runner.

[0019] The circulation channel is divided into a hot runner and a return runner, forming an orderly flow path for the heat-conducting liquid. This ensures the efficient circulation of the heat-conducting liquid within the temperature control component and improves temperature control uniformity. The lower end of the pump assembly is located within the hot runner, enhancing the heat exchange between the heat-conducting liquid and the pump body, precisely controlling the temperature of the core area of ​​the pump body, and adapting to the temperature control requirements of different syrups.

[0020] In some embodiments of this application, a rotary valve is installed in the valve body, and a first flow channel and a second flow channel are provided in the rotary valve. The first flow channel is connected to the hot flow channel, and the second flow channel is connected to the return flow channel. The first flow channel and the second flow channel are arranged parallel to each other and are located on both sides of the rotary valve.

[0021] The first and second flow channels of the rotary valve connect to the hot flow channel and the return flow channel respectively, realizing a centralized transfer of the heat transfer liquid circulation path and facilitating the connection layout between the temperature control element and external piping. The two flow channels are parallel and located on both sides of the rotary valve, ensuring independent and stable flow of the hot flow and return flow, avoiding mutual interference, and improving the operational stability of the temperature control system.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, the inlet and outlet are respectively connected to a temperature control device through pipelines to form a heat-conducting liquid circulation loop. The temperature control device outputs a heat-conducting liquid of 60-150°C, and the heat-conducting liquid is heat-conducting oil. Both the first hopper and the second hopper are provided with a heat-insulating layer, which is also connected to the temperature control device through pipelines to form a heat-conducting liquid circulation loop. The heat-insulating layer covers the side and bottom of the first hopper or the second hopper.

[0023] The heat transfer oil circulation loop, combined with an adjustable temperature control device from 60-150℃, can precisely regulate the temperature of the pump body and hopper, adapting to syrup materials of different viscosities and moisture contents. The hopper insulation layer covers the sides and bottom, and forms a circulation with the temperature control device to maintain a constant temperature of the material inside the hopper, preventing the material from solidifying and ensuring smooth subsequent feeding.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the valve body is connected to a driving component, which drives the valve body to rotate. A distribution plate is installed below the valve body. The first injection channel includes an inlet port and a material channel. The first injection channel and the second injection channel have the same structure. Rotation of the valve core switches between state one and state two. In state one, the two sets of inlet ports respectively connect the first hopper, the second hopper and the two sets of pump assemblies. At this time, the pump assemblies work to suck up the material in the first hopper and the second hopper. In state two, the two sets of material channels respectively connect the two sets of pump assemblies and the distribution plate. At this time, the pump assemblies work to push the material to the distribution plate.

[0025] The valve core rotation switches between suction (state one) and feeding (state two) modes, with a simple operating logic that eliminates the need for complex interlocking mechanisms, thus improving filling efficiency. Two sets of filling channels correspond to the dual hoppers and dual pump assemblies, enabling independent suction and synchronous feeding of two materials, suitable for filling dual-material applications such as filled candies, and ensuring accurate material proportions. The distribution plate centrally receives and guides the two materials during pouring, simplifying the material output path and improving the concentration and stability of the pouring process.

[0026] In some embodiments of this application, the first hopper and the second hopper respectively store the skin material and the core material, and the power output sequence of the two sets of drive motors is sequential, thereby controlling the order of material feeding.

[0027] The timing of the power output from two sets of drive motors controls the order of the outer and core materials being poured, eliminating the need to adjust the pouring nozzle height or pipe length, and providing flexible and precise adjustment. This application can adapt to the pouring process requirements of sandwich candies, ensuring the molding effect of the sandwich structure, without the need for additional process switching mechanisms, thus simplifying the equipment structure.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the valve core is a horizontally placed cylindrical structure, and the valve body is provided with an inner cavity that matches the valve core. The valve core is installed in the inner cavity of the valve body and can rotate under force.

[0029] The cylindrical valve core is more rationally matched with the valve body, and the horizontally placed valve core works more smoothly with the drive components, reducing equipment operating noise and the probability of failure.

[0030] In some embodiments of this application, a row of inlet ports is provided on both the left and right sides of the valve body. The inlet ports are located near the top surface of the valve body. The top and bottom surfaces of the valve body are provided with slots that match the pump body assembly and the distribution plate.

[0031] The layout of the side inlets and upper and lower slots allows for the connection of the hopper, quantitative control components, and distribution plate, shortening the material conveying path and improving casting efficiency. The standardized slot structure facilitates the disassembly and maintenance of the quantitative control components and distribution plate, reducing the difficulty of later equipment maintenance.

[0032] In some embodiments of this application, the inlets on both sides of the valve body are located on the same horizontal plane, and the inlets on the left and right sides are staggered; the inlet has a flat structure, the cross-section of the inlet in the horizontal direction is trapezoidal, and the diameter of the inlet opening is the largest.

[0033] The staggered inlet design avoids interference between different material paths, ensuring the independent conveying of the outer and core materials. The flat, trapezoidal inlet design with a large opening reduces material flow resistance, prevents viscous materials from clogging the inlet, and ensures smooth feeding.

[0034] In some embodiments of this application, the feed port is located on the surface of the valve core, one end of the feed port is a long strip structure adapted to the inlet structure, and the other end of the feed port is adapted to the slot structure.

[0035] The feed port is precisely matched to the inlet and slot at both ends, reducing material residue and dead zones during material conveying and improving material utilization. The feed port, integrated with the valve core, rotates synchronously with the valve core, ensuring smooth switching and timely and stable state transitions.

[0036] In some embodiments of this application, the mold driving device includes a working platform, a translation driving mechanism, a positioning fixture, and multiple molds; the frame and the translation driving mechanism are both mounted on the working platform. The translation driving mechanism includes a servo motor, a guide rail, and a slide plate. The slide plate is mounted on the guide rail, and the positioning fixture is detachably mounted on the slide plate. Multiple molds are integrated and assembled on the positioning fixture. The positioning fixture is used to realize synchronous positioning and quick disassembly and switching of the molds. The servo motor is connected to the slide plate to drive the slide plate to move along the guide rail. The moving slide plate drives the molds to the pouring gate to complete a small batch pouring test.

[0037] This application's positioning fixture is detachably mounted on the slide plate and can integrate multiple molds. Compared to existing technologies where molds are fixedly connected or only individually adapted, it eliminates the need for secondary adjustments to the slide plate and drive structure, enabling simultaneous replacement of multiple molds or rapid switching of a single mold. This significantly simplifies the replacement process for molds of different shapes and types, adapts to the frequent mold-changing needs in small-batch testing, and significantly improves testing efficiency. Furthermore, the integrated assembly and synchronous positioning of multiple molds allows the device to carry multiple molds of different specifications in a single operation, enabling comparison of multiple mold casting tests within a single equipment run. This precisely matches the testing requirements for multi-specification molding effects in new candy product development, solving the problem of existing technologies' inability to handle multiple mold tests simultaneously.

[0038] In some embodiments of this application, the multiple molds mounted on the positioning fixture include at least two of the following: starch molds, flat molds, and three-dimensional molds.

[0039] It can simultaneously integrate different types of molds commonly used in candy casting experiments, enabling small-batch casting tests of multiple molds to be completed in a single equipment run. This allows for simultaneous comparison of the molding effects of different molds, eliminating the need for multiple mold changes and repeated equipment restarts, thus significantly improving testing efficiency. It is adapted to the testing needs of different shapes and types of molding effects in new candy product development, providing more comprehensive experimental data for formula optimization and mold selection.

[0040] In some embodiments of this application, the guide rail is disposed on one side of the slide plate, and at least two sliders are mounted on the guide rail, with adjacent sliders spaced apart. The sliders are connected to the slide plate. Rollers are mounted on the bottom surface of the slide plate and at the two corners opposite to the guide rail, and the slide plate contacts the work platform through the rollers.

[0041] The use of at least two spaced sliders connecting the guide rail and the slide provides multi-point stable support for the slide, limiting its offset and wobbling as it moves along the guide rail. This improves the straightness and stability of the slide's movement, thereby ensuring the precise alignment of the mold and the gate. The slide rollers create rolling friction between the slide and the work platform, significantly reducing friction during movement, minimizing the load on the servo motor, and resulting in smoother slide movement. The rollers are only mounted on the two opposite corners of the slide's bottom surface, matching the guide rail's support and positioning. This ensures more even force distribution on the slide, avoiding the accumulation of movement resistance caused by multiple support points, and further smoothing the slide's movement along the guide rail.

[0042] In some embodiments of this application, the positioning fixture and the slide are detachably connected by a snap-fit ​​structure or bolt assembly. The snap-fit ​​structure includes a snap-fit ​​protrusion on the positioning fixture, which snaps onto the slide for quick positioning and installation. The positioning fixture has multiple installation stations, each corresponding to a positioning mounting plate, which is used to detachably fix the mold to the installation station.

[0043] The snap-fit ​​structure enables quick snap-fit ​​positioning and disassembly of the positioning fixture and slide plate without the need for additional tools, greatly improving the efficiency of fixture replacement and adapting to the needs of frequent mold switching in small-batch testing.

[0044] Multiple installation stations allow for the integrated assembly of molds of different specifications and types, meeting the needs of simultaneous testing of multiple molds. Each station is equipped with an independent positioning and mounting plate, which can accurately position and fix the mold, ensuring the consistency of mold installation and preventing mold misalignment from affecting the casting and molding effect. The positioning and mounting plate enables detachable connection between the mold and the fixture, allowing individual molds to be replaced without disassembling the entire positioning fixture, further improving the flexibility of mold replacement.

[0045] Based on common knowledge in the field, the above-described embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. Attached Figure Description

[0046] The present application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that these drawings are drawn only for the purpose of explaining the preferred embodiments and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present application. Furthermore, unless specifically indicated, the drawings are only schematic representations of the composition or structure of the described objects and may contain exaggerated depictions, and the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0047] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this application; Figure 2 This is a top view of this application; Figure 3 for Figure 2 Sectional view of section AA; Figure 4 for Figure 2 Sectional view of section BB; Figure 5 for Figure 3 A magnified view of a portion of the valve core; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of this application; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the valve core structure in this application; Figure 8 for Figure 7 A horizontal sectional view of the inlet. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the valve body in this application.

[0048] The specific explanations of the reference numerals in the attached drawings are as follows: 1. Frame; 2. First hopper; 3. Second hopper; 4. Valve body; 5. Valve core; 6. First connecting rod; 7. Second connecting rod; 8. Pump body assembly; 9. Drive motor; 10. Transmission shaft; 11. Cam assembly; 12. Slide rail assembly; 13. Pump pipe; 14. Pump rod; 15. Connecting block; 16. T-slot; 17. T-shaped structural component; 19. Temperature control component; 20. Mounting slot; 21. Connecting component; 22. Liquid inlet; 2 3. Liquid outlet; 24. Hot runner; 25. Return runner; 26. Rotary valve; 27. First flow channel; 28. Second flow channel; 29. ​​Piping; 30. Temperature control equipment; 31. Insulation layer; 32. Drive component; 33. Distribution plate; 34. Feed port; 35. Material channel; 36. Inlet; 37. Slot; 38. Working platform; 39. Servo motor; 40. Guide rail; 41. Slide plate; 42. Mold; 43. Roller; 44. Engraving; 45. Positioning mounting plate. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The present application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0051] Candy casting testing machine, Example 1, as follows Figures 1 to 4 As shown, the system includes a frame 1, a power drive unit, a casting assembly, a mold 42 drive unit, and a control system. The casting assembly is mounted on the frame 1 and includes a first hopper 2, a second hopper 3, a valve body 4, and a valve core 5. The first hopper 2 and the second hopper 3 are independently mounted on opposite sides of the valve body 4. The valve body 4 has two independent sets of first and second injection channels. The first injection channel connects to the first hopper 2, and the second injection channel connects to the second hopper 3. The dual hoppers and dual injection channels of the casting assembly, along with the dual connecting rods of the power drive unit and the detachable pump assembly 8, form a modular layout. There are no redundant external pipes 29 or complex linkage mechanisms, resulting in a compact overall structure that meets the miniaturization requirements of the testing machine. The pump assembly 8 and the connecting rods are detachably connected. When the pump assembly 8 experiences wear or failure, the corresponding component can be disassembled and replaced individually without replacing the entire power drive unit or casting assembly, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

[0052] The power drive device includes a drive assembly, a first connecting rod 6, a second connecting rod 7, and multiple pump body assemblies 8. Each first injection channel and each second injection channel is connected to a pump body assembly 8. Pump body assemblies 8 connected to the first injection channel are detachably connected to the first connecting rod 6, and pump body assemblies 8 connected to the second injection channel are detachably connected to the second connecting rod 7. The drive assembly is driven to move the first connecting rod 6 and / or the second connecting rod 7 up and down. The casting quantity of this application can be adjusted as needed, thereby reducing test losses. Pump body assemblies 8 connected to the first injection channel are detachably connected to the first connecting rod 6, and pump body assemblies 8 connected to the second injection channel are detachably connected to the second connecting rod 7. The corresponding number of pump body assemblies 8 can be selectively installed according to test requirements, without needing to adapt to fixed batch casting requirements. No raw materials required for batch casting are needed; casting of any quantity required for single or small-batch tests can be achieved, precisely matching the small-batch test requirements in the R&D stage, directly reducing material waste structurally.

[0053] Example 2, as Figures 1 to 9 As shown, the drive assembly includes two sets of drive motors 9, each with a drive shaft 10 connected to its output end. The drive shaft 10 is keyed to a cam assembly 11. The two cam assemblies 11 are respectively connected to the first connecting rod 6 and the second connecting rod 7. A slide rail assembly 12 is vertically mounted on the frame 1. The first connecting rod 6 and the second connecting rod 7 are both horizontally mounted, with both ends of the first connecting rod 6 and the second connecting rod 7 mounted on corresponding slide rails. The slide rails restrict the vertical movement of the first connecting rod 6 and the second connecting rod 7. The two sets of drive motors 9 and the two cam assemblies 11 drive the first connecting rod 6 and the second connecting rod 7 respectively, enabling independent or synchronous action of the two connecting rods, adapting to the power requirements of different test scenarios such as single-material and dual-material applications. The connecting rods are mounted on vertical slide rails, which restrict their movement only in the vertical direction, preventing rod misalignment and ensuring accurate injection.

[0054] The pump body assembly 8 includes a pump pipe 13 and a pump rod 14. The lower part of the pump rod 14 is installed inside the pump pipe 13, and the top of the pump rod 14 extends out of the pump pipe 13. The pump rod 14 is detachably connected to the first connecting rod 6 or the second connecting rod 7. A connecting block 15 is detachably connected to one side of the first connecting rod 6 and one side of the second connecting rod 7. The connecting block 15 has a T-shaped slot 16 that extends through the first end face of the connecting block 15. The top of the pump rod 14 is a T-shaped structural member 17 that is adapted to the T-shaped slot 16. The top of the pump rod 14 is inserted into the T-shaped slot 16. The first end face of the connecting block 15 is in contact with one side of the first connecting rod 6 and the second connecting rod 7. The first connecting rod 6, the second connecting rod 7 and the connecting block 15 are detachably connected by bolts. The pump rod 14 and the connecting rod are engaged with the T-shaped structure 17 and the T-shaped slot 16 for quick positioning and assembly. Combined with the bolted connecting block 15, this ensures both ease of assembly and disassembly and connection stability. The T-shaped structure restricts the radial displacement of the pump rod 14, ensuring stable axial movement and preventing displacement during injection that could affect injection accuracy. The pump body assembly 8 is detachably connected to the connecting rod, allowing for the addition or reduction of the number of pump bodies to flexibly adapt to different injection volume requirements. Individual pump body assemblies 8 can be replaced individually when worn or malfunctioning, reducing maintenance costs.

[0055] A temperature control element 19 is installed above the valve body. A mounting groove 20 is formed on the top surface of the valve body 4. A connector 21 is detachably installed in the mounting groove 20. The lower end of the pump assembly 8 passes through the temperature control element 19 and is inserted into the connector 21. The pump pipe 13 is sealed to the connector 21. The temperature control element 19 has a circulation channel with an inlet 22 and an outlet 23 at each end. A heat-conducting liquid flows through the circulation channel. The circulation channel of the temperature control element 19, carrying the heat-conducting liquid, directly controls the temperature of the pump assembly 8, preventing the syrup from solidifying or decreasing in fluidity due to temperature fluctuations, and ensuring smooth material transport. The mounting groove 20 on the top surface of the valve body 4 allows for the detachable installation of the connector 21. The pump pipe 13 is sealed to the connector 21, facilitating its removal and replacement while ensuring a tight seal between the pump body and the valve body 4, reducing material leakage.

[0056] The circulation channel includes at least one hot runner 24 and at least one return runner 25. The hot runner 24 is connected to the inlet 22, and the return runner 25 is connected to the outlet 23. The hot runner 24 and the return runner 25 are interconnected. The lower end of the pump assembly 8 is located within the hot runner 24. The circulation channel, divided into the hot runner 24 and the return runner 25, forms an orderly flow path for the heat-conducting liquid, ensuring the circulation efficiency of the heat-conducting liquid within the temperature control element 19 and improving temperature control uniformity. The lower end of the pump assembly 8, located within the hot runner 24, enhances the heat exchange effect between the heat-conducting liquid and the pump body, precisely controls the temperature of the core area of ​​the pump body, and adapts to the temperature control requirements of different syrups.

[0057] A rotary valve 26 is installed inside the valve body 4. The rotary valve 26 has a first flow channel 27 and a second flow channel 28. The first flow channel 27 is connected to the hot runner 24, and the second flow channel 28 is connected to the return flow channel 25. The first flow channel 27 and the second flow channel 28 are arranged parallel to each other and are located on opposite sides of the rotary valve 26. The first flow channel 27 and the second flow channel 28 of the rotary valve 26 connect to the hot runner 24 and the return flow channel 25 respectively, realizing a centralized transfer of the heat transfer liquid circulation path and facilitating the connection layout between the temperature control element 19 and the external pipeline 29. The two flow channels are parallel and separately located on opposite sides of the rotary valve 26, ensuring independent and stable flow of the hot flow and the return flow, avoiding mutual interference, and improving the operational stability of the temperature control system.

[0058] The inlet 22 and outlet 23 are connected to the temperature control device 30 via pipes 29 to form a heat-conducting liquid circulation loop. The temperature control device 30 outputs a heat-conducting liquid of 60-150℃, which is heat-conducting oil. Both the first hopper 2 and the second hopper 3 are equipped with insulation layers 31, which are also connected to the temperature control device 30 via pipes 29 to form a heat-conducting liquid circulation loop. The insulation layer 31 covers the sides and bottom of the first hopper 2 or the second hopper 3. The heat-conducting oil circulation loop, in conjunction with the 60-150℃ adjustable temperature control device 30, allows for precise temperature control of the pump body and hoppers, adapting to syrup materials of different viscosities and moisture contents. The hopper insulation layer 31 covers the sides and bottom and circulates with the temperature control device 30, maintaining a constant temperature for the material inside the hopper, preventing solidification and ensuring smooth subsequent feeding.

[0059] The valve body 4 is connected to the drive component 32. The drive component 32 drives the valve body 4 to rotate. A distribution plate 33 is installed below the valve body 4. The first injection channel includes an inlet port 34 and a material channel 35. The first injection channel and the second injection channel have the same structure. Rotation of the valve core 5 switches between state one and state two. In state one, the two sets of inlet ports 34 respectively connect the first hopper 2, the second hopper 3 and the two sets of pump body assemblies 8. At this time, the pump body assembly 8 works to suck up the material in the first hopper 2 and the second hopper 3. In state two, the two sets of material channels 35 respectively connect the two sets of pump body assemblies 8 and the distribution plate 33. At this time, the pump body assembly 8 works to push the material to the distribution plate 33. Rotation of the valve core 5 realizes the switching between suction (state one) and feeding (state two). The action logic is simple, without the need for complex mechanism linkage, thus improving the injection efficiency. Two sets of injection channels correspond to the dual hoppers and dual pump assembly 8, respectively, enabling independent suction and synchronous feeding of two materials. This adapts to the casting requirements of dual materials such as filled candies, ensuring accurate material proportions. The distribution plate 33 centrally receives the two materials and guides them for casting, simplifying the material output path and improving the concentration and stability of the casting process.

[0060] The first hopper 2 and the second hopper 3 respectively store the outer material and the core material. The power output sequence of the two sets of drive motors 9 is sequential, thereby controlling the order of material pouring. By controlling the pouring order of the outer material and core material through the power output sequence of the two sets of drive motors 9, there is no need to adjust the height of the pouring nozzle or the length of the pipe 29, making the adjustment method flexible and precise. This application can adapt to the pouring process requirements of sandwich candies, ensuring the molding effect of the sandwich structure, without the need for additional process switching mechanisms, thus simplifying the equipment structure.

[0061] The valve core 5 is a horizontally placed cylindrical structure. The valve body 4 has an inner cavity that matches the valve core 5. The valve core 5 is installed in the inner cavity of the valve body 4 and can rotate under force. The cylindrical valve core 5 is more rationally matched with the valve body 4. The horizontally placed valve core 5, together with the drive component 32, operates more smoothly, reducing equipment operating noise and the probability of failure.

[0062] The valve body 4 has a row of inlet ports 36 on both its left and right sides, with the inlet ports 36 positioned near the top surface of the valve body 4. The top and bottom surfaces of the valve body 4 both have slots 37, which are matched with the pump assembly 8 and the distribution plate 33. The layout of the inlet ports 36 on both sides and the slots 37 on the top and bottom allows for the connection of the hopper, the quantitative control assembly, and the distribution plate 33, shortening the material conveying path and improving pouring efficiency. The standardized slot structure 37 facilitates the disassembly, assembly, and maintenance of the quantitative control assembly and the distribution plate 33, reducing the difficulty of subsequent equipment maintenance.

[0063] The inlet ports 36 on both sides of the valve body 4 are located on the same horizontal plane, and the inlet ports 36 on the left and right sides are staggered. The inlet ports 36 have a flat structure, and the cross-section of the inlet port 36 in the horizontal direction is trapezoidal, with the largest diameter at the opening. The staggered arrangement of the inlet ports 36 can avoid interference between different material passages and ensure the independence of the conveying of the outer material and the core material. The flat trapezoidal design of the inlet port 36 with a large opening can reduce the material flow resistance, prevent viscous materials from clogging at the inlet, and ensure smooth feeding.

[0064] The feed port 34 is located on the surface of the valve core 5. One end of the feed port 34 is an elongated structure adapted to the structure of the inlet 36, and the other end is adapted to the structure of the slot 37. The two ends of the feed port 34 are precisely matched with the inlet 36 and the slot 37 respectively, reducing material residue and dead zones during material conveying and improving material utilization. The feed port 34, integrated with the valve core 5, rotates synchronously with the valve core 5, ensuring smooth switching and timely and stable state transitions.

[0065] The mold 42 driving device includes a working platform 38, a translation driving mechanism, a positioning fixture, and multiple molds 42. The frame 1 and the translation driving mechanism are both mounted on the working platform 38. The translation driving mechanism includes a servo motor 39, a guide rail 40, and a slide plate 41. The slide plate 41 is mounted on the guide rail 40. The positioning fixture is detachably mounted on the slide plate 41. Multiple molds 42 are integrated and assembled on the positioning fixture. The positioning fixture is used to realize the synchronous positioning and quick disassembly and switching of the molds 42. The servo motor 39 is connected to the slide plate 41 to drive the slide plate 41 to move along the guide rail 40. The moving slide plate 41 drives the molds 42 to move to the pouring gate to complete the small batch pouring test. The positioning fixture of this application is detachably installed on the slide plate 41 and can integrate multiple molds 42. Compared with the existing technology where the molds 42 are fixedly connected or individually adapted, it can realize the synchronous replacement of multiple molds 42 or the rapid switching of a single mold 42 without secondary debugging of the slide plate 41 and the drive structure. This greatly simplifies the replacement process of molds 42 of different shapes and types, adapts to the frequent mold change requirements in small-batch tests, and significantly improves test efficiency. At the same time, the integrated assembly and synchronous positioning design of multiple molds 42 allows the device to carry multiple molds 42 of different specifications at a time, and complete the casting test comparison of multiple molds 42 in a single equipment operation. This accurately matches the multi-specification molding effect testing requirements in the development of new candy products and solves the problem that the existing technology cannot handle the testing of multiple molds 42.

[0066] The multiple molds 42 mounted on the positioning fixture include at least two types of molds: starch molds, flat molds, and three-dimensional molds. It can simultaneously integrate different types of molds 42 commonly used in candy casting experiments, enabling small-batch casting tests of multiple molds 42 to be completed in a single equipment run. This allows for simultaneous comparison of the molding effects of different molds 42, eliminating the need for multiple mold 42 changes and repeated equipment restarts, significantly improving testing efficiency. It is suitable for testing the molding effects of different shapes and types in new candy product development, providing more comprehensive experimental data for formula optimization and mold 42 selection.

[0067] The guide rail 40 is disposed on one side of the slide plate 41, and at least two sliders are mounted on the guide rail 40, with adjacent sliders spaced apart. The sliders are connected to the slide plate 41. Rollers 43 are mounted on the bottom surface of the slide plate 41 and at the two corners opposite to the guide rail 40, and the slide plate 41 contacts the work platform 38 through the rollers 43. The use of at least two spaced sliders to connect the guide rail 40 and the slide plate 41 provides multi-point stable support for the slide plate 41, limiting the offset and swaying of the slide plate 41 when moving along the guide rail 40, improving the straightness and stability of the slide plate 41's movement, and thus ensuring the accuracy of the alignment between the mold 42 and the gate. The rollers 43 on the slide plate 41 create rolling friction between the slide plate 41 and the work platform 38, significantly reducing the friction force during the movement of the slide plate 41, reducing the drive load on the servo motor 39, and making the movement of the slide plate 41 smoother. The rollers 43 are only mounted on the two corners of the bottom surface of the slide plate 41 opposite to the guide rail 40. They are adapted to the support and positioning of the guide rail 40, so that the slide plate 41 is subjected to more balanced force, avoids the superposition of movement resistance caused by multiple support points, and makes the slide plate 41 move more smoothly along the guide rail 40.

[0068] The positioning fixture and the slide plate 41 are detachably connected via a snap-fit ​​structure or bolt assembly. The snap-fit ​​structure includes a snap-fit ​​protrusion 44 on the positioning fixture, which snaps onto the slide plate 41 for quick positioning and installation. The positioning fixture has multiple installation stations, each corresponding to a positioning mounting plate 45, which is used to detachably fix the mold 42 to the installation station. The snap-fit ​​structure enables quick snap-fit ​​positioning and disassembly of the positioning fixture and the slide plate 41 without the need for additional tools, greatly improving the fixture replacement efficiency and meeting the needs of frequent mold 42 switching in small-batch testing.

[0069] Multiple installation stations enable the categorized and integrated assembly of molds 42 of different specifications and types, meeting the needs of simultaneous testing of multiple molds 42. Each station is equipped with an independent positioning mounting plate 45, which can accurately position and fix the mold 42, ensuring the consistency of mold 42 installation and preventing mold 42 misalignment from affecting the casting and molding effect. The positioning mounting plate 45 enables the detachable connection between the mold 42 and the fixture, allowing individual molds 42 to be replaced without disassembling the entire positioning fixture, further improving the flexibility of mold 42 replacement.

[0070] The rest of the contents of Example 2 are the same as those of Example 1.

[0071] The present application has been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the present application and its core ideas. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications to the present application without departing from the principles of the present application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. A candy casting testing machine, characterized in that, It includes a frame (1), a power drive device, a casting assembly, a mold (42) drive device and a control system; the casting assembly is installed on the frame (1), and the casting assembly includes a first hopper (2), a second hopper (3), a valve body (4) and a valve core (5). The first hopper (2) and the second hopper (3) are installed independently on both sides of the valve body (4). The valve body (4) is provided with two independent first injection channels and second injection channels. The first injection channel is connected to the first hopper (2) and the second injection channel is connected to the second hopper (3). The power drive device includes a drive assembly, a first connecting rod (6), a second connecting rod (7), and multiple pump body assemblies (8). Each first injection channel and each second injection channel is connected to a pump body assembly (8). The pump body assembly (8) connected to the first injection channel is detachably connected to the first connecting rod (6), and the pump body assembly (8) connected to the second injection channel is detachably connected to the second connecting rod (7). The drive assembly is connected to the first connecting rod (6) and the second connecting rod (7) respectively. The drive assembly drives the first connecting rod (6) and / or the second connecting rod (7) to move up and down.

2. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The drive assembly includes two sets of drive motors (9), and the output ends of the drive motors (9) are all connected to drive shafts (10). The drive shafts (10) are keyed to the cam assembly (11). The two cam assemblies (11) are respectively connected to the first link (6) and the second link (7). A slide rail assembly (12) is vertically arranged on the frame (1). The first link (6) and the second link (7) are both horizontally arranged. The two ends of the first link (6) and the two ends of the second link (7) are respectively installed on the corresponding slide rails. The slide rails restrict the first link (6) and the second link (7) from moving up and down in the vertical direction.

3. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pump assembly (8) includes a pump pipe (13) and a pump rod (14). The lower part of the pump rod (14) is installed inside the pump pipe (13), and the top of the pump rod (14) extends out of the pump pipe (13). The pump rod (14) is detachably connected to either the first connecting rod (6) or the second connecting rod (7). A connecting block (15) can be detachably connected to one side of the first connecting rod (6) or one side of the second connecting rod (7). A T-shaped slot is provided on the connecting block (15). 16), the T-shaped slot (16) penetrates the first end face of the connecting block (15), the top of the pump rod (14) is a T-shaped structural component (17) adapted to the T-shaped slot (16), the top of the pump rod (14) is inserted into the T-shaped slot (16), the first end face of the connecting block (15) is in contact with one side of the first connecting rod (6) and the second connecting rod (7), and the first connecting rod (6), the second connecting rod (7) and the connecting block (15) are detachably connected by bolts.

4. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, A temperature control element (19) is installed above the valve body (4). An installation groove (20) is opened on the top surface of the valve body (4). A connector (21) is detachably installed in the installation groove (20). The lower end of the pump body assembly (8) passes through the temperature control element (19) and is inserted into the connector (21). The pump body assembly (8) and the connector (21) are sealed together. A circulation channel is provided in the temperature control element (19). An inlet (22) and an outlet (23) are provided at both ends of the circulation channel. A heat-conducting liquid is circulated in the circulation channel.

5. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The circulation channel includes at least one hot runner (24) and at least one return runner (25). The hot runner (24) is connected to the inlet (22), and the return runner (25) is connected to the outlet (23). The hot runner (24) and the return runner (25) are connected. The lower end of the pump body assembly (8) is located inside the hot runner (24).

6. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, A rotary valve (26) is installed inside the valve body (4). The rotary valve (26) is provided with a first flow channel (27) and a second flow channel (28). The first flow channel (27) is connected to the hot flow channel (24), and the second flow channel (28) is connected to the return flow channel (25). The first flow channel (27) and the second flow channel (28) are arranged parallel to each other and are located on both sides of the rotary valve (26).

7. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inlet (22) and outlet (23) are connected to the temperature control device (30) through the pipeline (29) to form a heat-conducting liquid circulation loop. The temperature control device (30) outputs heat-conducting liquid at 60-150℃. The heat-conducting liquid is heat-conducting oil. The first hopper (2) and the second hopper (3) are both equipped with a heat-insulating layer (31). The heat-insulating layer (31) is also connected to the temperature control device (30) through the pipeline (29) to form a heat-conducting liquid circulation loop. The heat-insulating layer (31) covers the side and bottom of the first hopper (2) or the second hopper (3).

8. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The valve body (4) is connected to the drive unit (32). The drive unit (32) works to drive the valve body (4) to rotate. A distribution plate (33) is installed below the valve body (4). The first injection channel includes a feed port (34) and a material channel (35). The first injection channel and the second injection channel have the same structure. When the valve core (5) rotates, it switches between state one and state two. In state one, the two feed ports (34) respectively connect the first hopper (2), the second hopper (3) and the two pump body assemblies (8) one by one. At this time, the pump body assembly (8) works to suck up the material in the first hopper (2) and the second hopper (3). In state two, the two material channels (35) respectively connect the two pump body assemblies (8) and the distribution plate (33). At this time, the pump body assembly (8) works to push the material to the distribution plate (33).

9. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first hopper (2) and the second hopper (3) respectively store the skin material and the core material. The power output sequence of the two sets of drive motors (9) is sequential, thereby controlling the order of material feeding.

10. The candy casting testing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve core (5) is a horizontally placed cylindrical structure. The valve body (4) has an inner cavity that matches the valve core (5). The valve core (5) is installed in the inner cavity of the valve body (4) and can rotate under force.

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