A high-pressure steam-vacuum drying integrated device and a processing method of yunnan rhizoma polygonati

Abstract

This invention provides an integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device and its method for processing Polygonatum odoratum. The device includes a housing, which is divided into a steam chamber and a drying chamber. A feeding hopper connected to the top of the steam chamber is located on one side of the upper end of the housing. A first sealed feeding mechanism is located at the lower end of the feeding hopper. Multiple horizontal mesh conveyors, arranged in a staggered, serpentine pattern, transport materials within the chamber. Multiple steam pipes with multiple vents are located at the bottom of the steam chamber. A steam inlet pipe connected to the steam pipes is located outside the housing. Second and third sealed feeding mechanisms are located between the steam chamber and the drying chamber, and at the outlet of the drying chamber. Multiple horizontal mesh conveyors, arranged in a staggered, serpentine pattern, transport materials within the drying chamber. A heating module is located outside the drying chamber, and a vacuum pump is mounted outside the housing, with its inlet connected to the drying chamber. This invention integrates steaming and drying functions, solving the problems of complex, time-consuming, and unstable quality in the processing of Polygonatum odoratum.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of product deep processing technology, and relates to an integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device and its processing method for Polygonatum yunnanense. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of traditional Chinese medicine processing, Polygonatum sibiricum, as a traditional tonic herb, has the effects of replenishing qi and nourishing yin, strengthening the spleen and moistening the lungs, and tonifying the kidneys and replenishing essence. It is widely used in clinical practice and health products. Among them, Yunnan Polygonatum sibiricum, as one of the mainstream local varieties of Polygonatum sibiricum, is mainly distributed in Yunnan and other southwestern regions. It is highly valued for its high polysaccharide content and rich medicinal components. According to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and relevant local processing specifications, Yunnan Polygonatum sibiricum needs to be processed through "nine steaming and nine drying" or similar repeated steaming and drying processes to reduce its irritation, enhance its tonic effects, and improve its taste and appearance.

[0003] Traditional processing of Polygonatum odoratum typically involves multiple steps, including washing, steaming, and sun-drying or baking. Steaming aims to soften the herb and promote the transformation of its internal components, while subsequent drying controls moisture, prevents mold growth, and stabilizes its efficacy. However, existing processing methods are generally cumbersome and time-consuming—a single complete processing cycle often takes several days to weeks. This not only relies heavily on manual labor but is also significantly affected by weather, environmental temperature, and humidity, making standardization and large-scale production difficult. Furthermore, while some studies in recent years have attempted to introduce modern equipment for steaming and drying Polygonatum odoratum, existing equipment is mostly general-purpose steaming or hot air drying devices, which have significant shortcomings in terms of heating rate, steam uniformity, dynamic moisture control, and protection of heat-sensitive components. This makes it difficult to achieve rapid and efficient steaming and simultaneous drying without damaging the medicinal components. Currently, there is a lack of integrated equipment specifically for processing Polygonatum yunnanense, especially a lack of dedicated devices that can integrate rapid steaming and efficient drying functions. This leads to frequent problems such as uneven steaming, low drying efficiency, and loss of effective components, which seriously restricts the quality stability and industrial development of Polygonatum yunnanense slices. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide an integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device and its processing method for Polygonatum yunnanense, which integrates rapid steaming and efficient drying functions to solve the problems of complex process, long time consumption and unstable quality in the current processing of Polygonatum yunnanense.

[0005] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention provides an integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device, including a housing, the housing being divided into a steam chamber and a drying chamber distributed from top to bottom. A feeding hopper communicating with the top of the steam chamber is provided on one side of the upper end of the housing. A first sealing feeding mechanism is horizontally arranged at the lower end of the feeding hopper in the steam chamber. Multiple first horizontal mesh chain conveyors are horizontally arranged in the steam chamber, distributed downwards in stages. Two adjacent first horizontal mesh chain conveyors are staggered left and right. All the first horizontal mesh chain conveyors cooperate to transport materials downwards in a serpentine manner. Multiple steam pipes are provided at the bottom of the steam chamber, each steam pipe having multiple air outlets. A steam inlet pipe communicating with each steam pipe is provided outside the housing.

[0006] A second sealing feeding mechanism is laterally arranged at the outlet end of the lowest first horizontal mesh conveyor between the steam chamber and the drying chamber. Multiple second horizontal mesh conveyors are arranged horizontally downwards in stages within the drying chamber. Adjacent second horizontal mesh conveyors are staggered left and right. All the second horizontal mesh conveyors cooperate to transport materials downwards in a serpentine pattern. A third sealing feeding mechanism is laterally arranged at the outlet end of the drying chamber and the lowest second horizontal mesh conveyor. A heating module is arranged on the outside of the drying chamber of the housing. A vacuum pump is installed outside the housing, and the inlet end of the vacuum pump is connected to the drying chamber.

[0007] The present invention is further configured such that the first sealing and unloading mechanism, the second sealing and unloading mechanism, and the third sealing and unloading mechanism all include a transverse unloading port. The transverse unloading port is respectively opened at the lower end of the feed hopper, below the outlet end of the lowermost first horizontal mesh conveyor, or below the outlet end of the lowermost second horizontal mesh conveyor. A transversely arranged unloading shaft is rotatably connected to each transverse unloading port. An unloading rotating motor for driving the corresponding unloading shaft is installed outside the housing at each transverse unloading port. An arc-shaped sealing plate that cooperates with the corresponding unloading shaft is arranged transversely on both sides of each transverse unloading port. Multiple circumferentially distributed rotating baffles are arranged on the outer periphery of each unloading shaft. The edge of each rotating baffle can contact the inner wall of the corresponding arc-shaped sealing plate. At least two rotating baffles on the outside of each unloading shaft always have their edges in contact with the inner walls of the two opposite arc-shaped sealing plates.

[0008] The invention is further configured such that each rotating stop bar has a rubber sealing strip on its edge that can contact the inner wall of the corresponding arc-shaped sealing plate.

[0009] The invention is further configured such that, in the steam chamber, a spreading baffle is laterally arranged at the inlet end of the first sealed feeding mechanism away from the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor, and in the drying chamber, a spreading baffle is laterally arranged at the inlet end of the second sealed feeding mechanism away from the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor. Each spreading baffle has multiple rake teeth distributed along its length connected downwards at its lower edge. Each rake tooth includes an elastic rubber connecting section connected to the corresponding spreading baffle and a hard spreading section connected to the free end of the corresponding elastic connecting section. The lower end of each hard spreading section has a gap between it and the conveyor belt of the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor or the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor.

[0010] The invention is further configured such that a pressure regulating valve communicating with the top of the steam chamber is provided at the upper end of the housing, the pressure regulating valve includes a valve body sleeve disposed upward at the upper end of the housing, a valve body inner tube disposed vertically inside the valve body sleeve, an exhaust hole communicating with the steam chamber is opened at the upper end of the housing within the valve body inner tube, the inner diameter of the exhaust hole is smaller than the inner diameter of the valve body inner tube, a plurality of pressure relief holes are opened on the outer wall of the valve body inner tube, an exhaust pipe is connected to the valve body sleeve outward, a vertically disposed telescopic motor is installed at the upper end of the valve body sleeve, the telescopic axis of the telescopic motor extends downward into the valve body inner tube and is connected to a pressure plate, a piston plate is slidably connected to the inner wall of the valve body inner tube below the pressure plate, and a pressure spring is provided between the pressure plate and the piston plate.

[0011] The present invention is further configured such that a safety pressure valve communicating with the top of the steam chamber is provided at the upper end of the housing.

[0012] The present invention is further configured such that the box body is rotatably connected to both ends of the conveyor belt of each first horizontal mesh chain conveyor, and the end of each first drive shaft is connected to a first transmission pulley extending out of the steam chamber. The first transmission pulleys on the first horizontal mesh chain conveyor on the same side are driven by belts. Multiple first drive motors are installed outside the box body, wherein the first drive motors are respectively connected to the first drive shafts of the first horizontal mesh chain conveyors that are staggered on the left and right.

[0013] The housing is rotatably connected to both ends of the conveyor belt of each second horizontal mesh chain conveyor. Each second drive shaft is connected to a second transmission pulley extending out of the steam chamber. The second transmission pulleys on the same side of the second horizontal mesh chain conveyor are driven by belts. Multiple second drive motors are installed outside the housing, and the second drive motors are respectively connected to the second drive shafts of the second horizontal mesh chain conveyors that are staggered on the left and right.

[0014] The present invention is further configured such that a receiving groove is provided below the third sealing and unloading mechanism of the box body.

[0015] The invention is further configured such that the heating module is a microwave generator disposed on the outer wall of the drying chamber, and the inner wall of the drying chamber is provided with a metal microwave reflective layer.

[0016] This invention also discloses a method for processing Polygonatum yunnanense, comprising the following steps:

[0017] S1. Select authentic, unrotten, thick rhizomes of Polygonatum yunnanense, and wash and remove the fibrous roots;

[0018] S2. Place the cleaned medicinal materials in a normal pressure steam cabinet to soften for about 30 to 45 minutes, until chopsticks can be inserted but are not easily broken. While hot, use a slicer to cut them into slices 3 to 4 mm thick.

[0019] S3. Moisten the auxiliary materials. Use 15 to 20 kg of rice wine per 100 kg of Polygonatum slices. Mix the two thoroughly and place them in a sealed container to moisten for 2 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice during the process.

[0020] S4. Before the material enters, the equipment needs to be started for preheating. The heating module is turned on to raise the temperature inside the drying chamber to 60 to 70 degrees Celsius. The steam inlet pipe is connected to the steam generator to introduce a small amount of steam into the steam chamber for preheating.

[0021] S5. The moistened Polygonatum slices are fed into the feeding hopper at a uniform speed, and the material is gradually spread into a single layer on the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor by the first sealed feeding mechanism.

[0022] S6. After the material enters the steam chamber, saturated steam is introduced, and the pressure in the steam chamber is stably controlled at 0.10 to 0.12 MPa, and the temperature is controlled at 120 to 125 degrees Celsius. The material is conveyed downward in the steam chamber through multiple first horizontal mesh chain conveyors that are distributed vertically and horizontally in a serpentine pattern, so that the total residence time of the material in the chamber is between 70 and 90 minutes.

[0023] S7. The steamed material that meets the standards is then smoothly and continuously transferred through the second sealed feeding mechanism to the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor in the drying chamber, entering the drying stage. At this time, the vacuum pump should be started to slowly increase and stabilize the vacuum degree in the drying chamber within the range of -0.08 to -0.095 MPa. In the upper part of the drying chamber, the temperature is precisely controlled at 90 to 100 degrees Celsius by the heating module to remove moisture from the surface of the material. In the middle part of the drying chamber, the temperature drops to 75 to 80 degrees Celsius for main drying. In the lower part, the temperature drops to 55 to 60 degrees Celsius, controlling the total residence time of the material in the entire drying chamber to be 80 to 90 minutes, ultimately ensuring that the product moisture content does not exceed 12%.

[0024] S8. The dried material is finally discharged through the third sealing feeding mechanism, naturally cooled to room temperature, and then vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-filled packaged.

[0025] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0026] Firstly, the high-pressure steam-vacuum drying integrated device and its processing method for Polygonatum yunnanensis provided by this invention have several significant advantages. In terms of device design, by integrating the steam chamber and drying chamber into the same housing, seamless integration of steaming and drying functions is achieved, greatly simplifying the process flow, reducing material transfer links between different devices, and effectively reducing labor costs and time consumption. Simultaneously, the unique sealed feeding mechanism design ensures the sealing of materials during transfer, preventing steam leakage and external contamination, and guaranteeing the stability of the processing environment and the consistency of product quality.

[0027] Secondly, during the steaming process, the arrangement of multiple horizontal mesh conveyors arranged in a serpentine pattern ensures that the material is fully in contact with the steam within the steam chamber, achieving uniform steaming and avoiding the uneven steaming problem caused by material accumulation in traditional steaming methods. Precise pressure and temperature control provides a suitable steaming environment based on the characteristics of *Polygonatum yunnanense*, promoting the transformation of its internal components, reducing irritation, enhancing its tonic effects, and maximizing the retention of medicinal components.

[0028] Thirdly, during the drying stage, the application of a graded temperature control strategy within the drying chamber allows for rapid removal of surface moisture at the upper high temperature, primary drying at a suitable middle temperature, and lower low temperature to prevent over-drying and loss of effective components. Combined with precise vacuum control, this accelerates moisture evaporation, improves drying efficiency, and enables the product to reach the ideal moisture content in a short time, with consistent and stable quality and minimal batch-to-batch variation. Furthermore, the microwave generator, acting as a heating module, combined with a metal microwave reflector layer, enables rapid and uniform heating, further enhancing the drying effect.

[0029] Fourthly, regarding the processing methods, the selection of raw materials lays the foundation for high-quality products; the softening and slicing process using an atmospheric pressure steam cabinet facilitates subsequent processing of the medicinal materials; the appropriate use of rice wine in the excipient soaking process not only improves the taste but also further enhances the efficacy; the equipment preheating step ensures the stability and efficiency of the steaming and drying processes. The entire processing method closely integrates the characteristics of the integrated device, fully leveraging its advantages, and realizing the standardized and large-scale production of Yunnan Polygonatum processing. It solves the problems of complex processes, long processing times, and unstable quality associated with traditional processing methods, providing strong support for the industrialization of Yunnan Polygonatum. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view used to illustrate the back structure of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 3 Used to demonstrate the internal structure of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Enlarged view of A in the middle;

[0034] Figure 5 Used to demonstrate the internal structure of the first sealing and feeding mechanism;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a partial cross-sectional view of a pressure regulating valve.

[0036] The components include: 1. Box body; 2. Steam chamber; 3. Drying chamber; 4. Feed hopper; 5. First horizontal mesh conveyor; 6. First drive shaft; 7. First transmission pulley; 8. Belt; 9. First drive motor; 10. Steam pipe; 11. Air outlet; 12. Steam inlet pipe; 13. Valve body sleeve; 14. Valve body inner tube; 15. Pressure relief hole; 16. Exhaust pipe; 17. Telescopic motor; 18. Pressure plate; 19. Piston plate; 20. Pressure spring; 21. 21. Second horizontal mesh conveyor; 22. Second drive shaft; 23. Second transmission pulley; 24. Second drive motor; 25. Material receiving trough; 26. Microwave generator; 27. Vacuum pump; 28. Horizontal discharge port; 29. ​​Discharge shaft; 30. Discharge rotating motor; 31. Arc-shaped sealing plate; 32. Rotating stop bar; 33. Rubber sealing strip; 34. Scraping stop bar; 35. Elastic rubber connecting section; 36. Hard scraping section; 37. Safety pressure valve. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The following detailed description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments, provides a further detailed explanation of the integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device and its processing method for Polygonatum odoratum. The advantages and features of the present invention will become clearer from the following description. It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are all in a very simplified form and use non-precise proportions, used only to facilitate and clarify the illustration of the embodiments of the present invention. The same or similar reference numerals in the drawings represent the same or similar parts.

[0038] Example 1, referring to Figure 1-6A high-pressure steam-vacuum drying integrated device includes a housing 1, which is divided into a steam chamber 2 and a drying chamber 3 distributed from top to bottom. A feed hopper 4 is provided on one side of the upper end of the housing 1, which communicates with the top of the steam chamber 2. A material elevator is used to lift the material into the feed hopper 4. A first sealed feeding mechanism is horizontally arranged at the lower end of the feed hopper 4 in the steam chamber 2. Seven first horizontal mesh chain conveyors 5 are horizontally arranged in a step-down manner in the steam chamber 2, with adjacent first horizontal mesh chain conveyors 5 arranged alternately from left to right. Each of the first horizontal mesh chain conveyors 5 has a first drive shaft 6 rotatably connected to both ends of the conveyor belt of the housing 1. Each first drive shaft 6 has a first transmission pulley 7 extending out of the steam chamber 2 connected to its end. The first transmission pulleys 7 on the first horizontal mesh chain conveyors 5 that are offset on the same side are driven by a belt 8. Two first drive motors 9 are installed outside the housing 1. The two first drive motors 9 are respectively connected to the first drive shafts 6 of the first horizontal mesh chain conveyors 5 that are distributed alternately on the left and right sides, ultimately driving all the first horizontal mesh chain conveyors 5 to cooperate in a serpentine downward conveying of materials. Five steam pipes 10 are provided at the bottom of the steam chamber 2. Each steam pipe 10 has multiple air outlets 11. A steam inlet pipe 12 connected to each steam pipe 10 is provided outside the housing 1.

[0039] A pressure regulating valve is installed at the upper end of the housing 1, communicating with the top of the steam chamber 2. The pressure regulating valve includes a valve body sleeve 13 installed upward at the upper end of the housing 1. A valve body inner tube 14 is vertically installed inside the valve body sleeve 13. An exhaust hole (not shown) communicating with the steam chamber 2 is opened in the upper end of the housing 1 within the valve body inner tube 14. The inner diameter of the exhaust hole is smaller than the inner diameter of the valve body inner tube 14. Several pressure relief holes 15 are opened on the outer wall of the valve body sleeve 13. An exhaust pipe 16 is connected to the valve body sleeve 13 outward. The exhaust pipe 16 can be directly connected to a steam condensing device to condense and recover the discharged steam, recovering moisture and heat. A vertically installed telescopic motor 17 is installed at the upper end of the valve body sleeve 13. The telescopic shaft of the telescopic motor 17 extends downward into the valve body inner tube 14 and connects to a pressure plate 18. A piston plate 19 is slidably connected to the inner wall of the valve body inner tube 14 below the pressure plate 18. A pressure spring 20 is installed between the pressure plate 18 and the piston plate 19. The pressure spring 20 applies pressure to the piston disc 19, causing the piston disc 19 to block the exhaust port downwards. When the pressure inside the steam chamber 2 reaches a certain level, it overcomes the pressure exerted by the pressure spring 20 on the piston disc 19. The steam pushes the piston disc 19 upwards, allowing the steam to be released from the pressure relief port 15 into the valve body sleeve 13 and discharged from the exhaust pipe 16. The telescopic motor 17 extends and retracts to adjust the position of the pressure plate 18, thereby compressing the pressure spring 20 to different degrees and adjusting the pressure limit inside the steam chamber 2. At the same time, to increase safety, a safety pressure valve 37 connected to the top of the steam chamber 2 is provided at the upper end of the housing 1.

[0040] A second sealing feeding mechanism is horizontally arranged at the outlet end of the first horizontal mesh conveyor 5 at the bottom between the steam chamber 2 and the drying chamber 3. Six second horizontal mesh conveyors 21 are arranged horizontally in the drying chamber 3, which are distributed downwards in stages. Except for the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor 21, the length of the other second horizontal mesh conveyors 21 is twice that of the first horizontal mesh conveyor 5, so as to extend the drying time. Two adjacent second horizontal mesh chain conveyors 21 are staggered left and right. A second drive shaft 22 is rotatably connected to both ends of the conveyor belt of each second horizontal mesh chain conveyor 21 in the housing 1. A second transmission pulley 23 extending out of the drying chamber 3 is connected to the end of each second drive shaft 22. The second transmission pulleys 23 on the second horizontal mesh chain conveyors 21 that are offset on the same side are driven by belt 8. Two second drive motors 24 are installed outside the housing 1. The two second drive motors 24 are respectively connected to the second drive shafts 22 of the staggered second horizontal mesh chain conveyors 21, and finally drive all the second horizontal mesh chain conveyors 21 to cooperate in conveying materials downward in a serpentine manner.

[0041] A third sealed feeding mechanism is horizontally installed at the outlet end of the second horizontal mesh conveyor 21 at the bottom of the drying chamber 3. A receiving trough 25 is installed below the third sealed feeding mechanism in the housing 1. The processed and dried *Polygonatum odoratum* is discharged from the third sealed feeding mechanism into the receiving trough 25. Multiple heating modules are installed on the outside of the drying chamber 3 in the housing 1. These heating modules are microwave generators 26 installed on the outer wall of the drying chamber 3. A metal microwave reflective layer (not shown) is installed on the inner wall of the drying chamber 3. The microwave generators 26 are connected to the metal microwave reflective layer via waveguides, allowing microwaves to enter the drying chamber 3. The second horizontal mesh conveyor 21 cannot be made of metal to prevent sparks. A vacuum pump 27 is installed outside the housing 1. The inlet end of the vacuum pump 27 is connected to the drying chamber 3, and the vacuum pump 27 is used to evacuate the drying chamber 3.

[0042] The first, second, and third sealing feeding mechanisms each include a transverse feeding port 28. These ports are located at the lower end of the feed hopper 4, below the outlet of the lowest first horizontal mesh conveyor 5, or below the outlet of the lowest second horizontal mesh conveyor 21. A transversely arranged feeding shaft 29 is rotatably connected to each port 28. Outside the housing 1, at each port 28, a device is installed to drive the corresponding feeding shaft 29 to rotate. The feeding rotary motor 30 has an arc-shaped sealing plate 31 on each side of each horizontal feeding port 28, which cooperates with the corresponding feeding shaft 29. Multiple circumferentially distributed rotating baffles 32 are arranged on the outer periphery of each feeding shaft 29. Each rotating baffle 32 has a rubber sealing strip 33 on its edge that contacts the inner wall of the corresponding arc-shaped sealing plate 31. At least two rotating baffles 32 on the outside of each feeding shaft 29 always have their edges in contact with the inner walls of the two opposing arc-shaped sealing plates 31. Through the contact between the rubber sealing strips 33 on the edges of the rotating baffles 32 and the arc-shaped sealing plates 31, the rotating baffles 32 maintain a seal between the two chambers during rotation. When material falls between the two rotating baffles 32, it falls downwards into the next chamber as the baffles 32 rotate. Ultimately, the steam chamber 2 and the drying chamber 3 remain sealed during material addition, transfer, and discharge, facilitating independent pressure adjustment between the two chambers.

[0043] A spreading baffle 34 is horizontally arranged in the steam chamber 2 at the entrance end of the first sealed feeding mechanism away from the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor 5. A spreading baffle 34 is horizontally arranged in the drying chamber 3 at the entrance end of the second sealed feeding mechanism away from the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor 21. Each spreading baffle 34 has multiple rake teeth distributed along its length connected downwards at its lower edge. Each rake tooth includes an elastic rubber connecting section 35 connected to the corresponding rake tooth and a hard spreading section 36 connected to the free end of the corresponding elastic connecting section. The lower end of each hard spreading section 36 leaves a gap between itself and the conveyor belt of the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor 5 or the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor 21. When the material is transferred through the first sealed feeding mechanism, the second sealed feeding mechanism and the third sealed feeding mechanism, the material intermittently falls onto the first horizontal mesh chain conveyor 5 and the second horizontal mesh chain conveyor 21. The material needs to be spread evenly on the first horizontal mesh chain conveyor 5 or the second horizontal mesh chain conveyor 21 by the spreading baffle 34. At the same time, if there is a large resistance when the material comes into contact with the rake teeth, it can push the rake teeth to bend and allow the material to pass through, preventing the material from accumulating and blocking at the spreading baffle 34.

[0044] Example 2, a method for processing Polygonatum yunnanense, using a high-pressure steam-vacuum drying integrated device as described in Example 1, includes the following steps:

[0045] S1. Select authentic, thick rhizomes of Polygonatum yunnanense that are free from rot, wash them with running drinking water until no mud or sand remains, and remove the fibrous roots with a stainless steel knife.

[0046] S2. Place the cleaned medicinal materials in an atmospheric pressure steam cabinet to soften for about 30 to 45 minutes, until chopsticks can be inserted but are not easily broken. While still hot, use a slicer to cut them into slices that are 3 to 4 mm thick.

[0047] S3. Moisten the auxiliary materials by mixing them thoroughly with 15 to 20 kilograms of rice wine per 100 kilograms of Polygonatum slices. Place the mixture in a sealed container and let it moisten for 2 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice during the process, until the rice wine is almost completely absorbed.

[0048] S4. Before the material enters, the equipment needs to be started for preheating. Turn on the heating module to raise the temperature of the drying chamber 3 to 60 to 70 degrees Celsius. Connect the steam inlet pipe 12 to the steam generator and introduce a small amount of steam into the steam chamber 2 for preheating. After the preparation is completed, continuous production can begin.

[0049] S5. The moistened Polygonatum slices are fed into the feed hopper 4 at a uniform speed. When the Polygonatum slices fall between the two rotating baffles 32, they can fall downwards with the rotation of the rotating baffles 32 onto the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor 5. During the conveying process of the first horizontal mesh conveyor 5, the Polygonatum slices are spread evenly into a single layer by the rake teeth on the spreading baffles 34, with a thickness of about 2 to 3 centimeters, to avoid accumulation.

[0050] S6. After the material enters the steam chamber 2, saturated steam is introduced, and the pressure inside the steam chamber 2 is stably controlled at 0.10 to 0.12 MPa, and the temperature is controlled at 120 to 125 degrees Celsius. The material is conveyed downwards in the steam chamber 2 via multiple horizontal mesh conveyors 5 arranged in a serpentine pattern, ensuring a total residence time of 70 to 90 minutes within the chamber. During this process, the top mesh belt primarily completes the preheating and surface conversion of the material, the middle mesh belt achieves deep penetration of high-pressure steam and Maillard reaction, and the bottom mesh belt completes the final curing and shaping. The critical steaming endpoint can be confirmed by sampling through the observation port before the second sealed feeding mechanism.

[0051] S7. The steamed material that meets the standards is then smoothly and continuously transferred through the second sealed feeding mechanism to the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor 21 in the drying chamber 3 to enter the drying stage. At this time, the vacuum pump 27 should be started to slowly increase and stabilize the vacuum degree in the drying chamber 3 within the range of -0.08 to -0.095 MPa. In the upper part of the drying chamber 3, the temperature is precisely controlled at 90 to 100 degrees Celsius by the heating module to remove moisture from the surface of the material. In the middle part of the drying chamber 3, the temperature drops to 75 to 80 degrees Celsius for the main drying. In the lower part, the temperature drops to 55 to 60 degrees Celsius. The total residence time of the material in the entire drying chamber 3 is controlled to be between 80 and 90 minutes, so that the moisture content of the product does not exceed 12%.

[0052] S8. The dried material is finally discharged through the third sealed feeding mechanism, naturally cooled to room temperature, and then screened to remove a very small number of charred pieces and debris, followed by quality inspection. Products that pass inspection should be immediately vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-filled using materials with good moisture and oxygen barrier properties (such as aluminum foil composite bags), and stored in a cool, dry warehouse.

[0053] The following is an analysis of the specific effects expected to be produced by this process:

[0054] I. Production Efficiency: Achieving a Qualitative Leap

[0055] 1. Production cycle is greatly shortened:

[0056] The traditional "nine steaming and nine drying" method depends on the weather and takes several days.

[0057] Traditional segmented type (steamer + oven): steaming and drying are separated, including transfer and cooling time, and a single batch still requires 24-48 hours.

[0058] This integrated process takes only 5-7 hours from material input to output, enabling same-day material input and same-day finished product output, increasing production efficiency by several to dozens of times.

[0059] 2. Achieve continuous and automated production:

[0060] Materials are conveyed by a mesh belt, automatically completing the entire process of steaming, transferring, and drying without the need for manual handling and transfer, greatly reducing labor intensity and saving labor costs.

[0061] The "feed-steam-dry-discharge" process can operate continuously, making it suitable for large-scale, batch, and stable production, with a capacity far exceeding that of intermittent equipment.

[0062] II. Product Quality: Meets and exceeds traditional premium product standards

[0063] 1. Extremely black and glossy color:

[0064] Principle: High-pressure steam ensures complete Maillard reaction and sugar conversion; subsequent vacuum drying rapidly dehydrates the sugar in an oxygen-free and low-temperature environment, perfectly "locking in" the black color formed after steaming, completely avoiding the browning and darkening phenomenon caused by high temperature and oxygen in traditional hot air drying.

[0065] Effect: The finished product has a uniform, jet-black color with a glossy finish, exhibiting excellent appearance and product attributes, meeting the highest description of "as black as lacquer".

[0066] 2. Better taste and efficacy:

[0067] Principle: High pressure (120-125℃) can thoroughly destroy the components that cause a numbing sensation on the tongue (such as specific saponins) in a short time (70-90 minutes) and promote the conversion and dissolution of nourishing components such as polysaccharides. Vacuum low-temperature drying protects these heat-sensitive active ingredients.

[0068] Effects: The finished product has a sweet and pure taste, without any numbing sensation on the tongue, a soft and oily texture, is easy to crush and cook, and has high bioavailability.

[0069] 3. Consistent and stable quality with minimal batch-to-batch variation:

[0070] Principle: The material is evenly laid on the mesh belt and experiences the same steam flow field, temperature field and time, which avoids the problem of uneven heating between the upper and lower layers in the steamer.

[0071] Results: Products from the same batch have highly consistent quality inside and out, top and bottom. Due to the precise control of process parameters (pressure, time, temperature, vacuum degree) between different batches, the quality reproducibility is excellent.

[0072] 4. Improve yield and product yield:

[0073] Closed-loop and automated production reduces material loss and contamination during transfer. Precise drying control avoids waste caused by over-drying or under-drying, achieving a yield rate of over 95%.

[0074] It should also be noted that all terms such as "set up" and similar descriptive words in this application (especially the specification) indicate that two structures have or exist a connection relationship. However, the specific means by which the two are connected are not limited in detail, and are usually conventional connection methods. That is, the means should be understood as prior art and do not need to be elaborated. For example, "m is set up with n" only indicates that structure m has structure n, and whether the two are connected by welding, riveting, adhesive, or integral molding is within the scope of protection of this application. Similarly, "x is rotatably set up with y" only indicates that y and x can rotate relative to each other, and whether the two are connected by a bearing, or whether y directly passes through x and is rotatably connected to x, or other feasible methods, are all within the scope of protection of this application.

[0075] The above description is merely a description of preferred embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Any changes or modifications made by those skilled in the art based on the above disclosure shall fall within the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A high-pressure steam-vacuum drying integrated device, comprising a housing (1), characterized in that, The box (1) is divided into a steam chamber (2) and a drying chamber (3) distributed from top to bottom. A feeding hopper (4) connected to the top of the steam chamber (2) is provided on one side of the upper end of the box (1). A first sealing feeding mechanism is provided horizontally at the lower end of the feeding hopper (4) of the steam chamber (2). Multiple first horizontal mesh chain conveyors (5) are horizontally arranged in the steam chamber (2) and distributed downwards in stages. Two adjacent first horizontal mesh chain conveyors (5) are staggered left and right. All the first horizontal mesh chain conveyors (5) cooperate to transport materials downwards in a serpentine manner. Multiple steam pipes (10) are provided at the bottom of the steam chamber (2). Each steam pipe (10) has multiple air outlets (11). A steam inlet pipe (12) connected to each steam pipe (10) is provided outside the box (1). A second sealing feeding mechanism is horizontally arranged between the steam chamber (2) and the drying chamber (3) at the outlet end of the lowest first horizontal mesh conveyor (5). Multiple second horizontal mesh conveyors (21) are horizontally arranged in the drying chamber (3) and distributed downwards in stages. Two adjacent second horizontal mesh conveyors (21) are staggered left and right. All the second horizontal mesh conveyors (21) cooperate to convey materials downwards in a serpentine manner. A third sealing feeding mechanism is horizontally arranged at the outlet end of the lowest second horizontal mesh conveyor (21) in the drying chamber (3). A heating module is arranged on the outside of the box (1) of the drying chamber (3). A vacuum pump (27) is installed outside the box (1). The inlet end of the vacuum pump (27) is connected to the drying chamber (3).

2. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sealing feeding mechanism, the second sealing feeding mechanism, and the third sealing feeding mechanism all include a transverse feeding port (28). The transverse feeding ports (28) are respectively opened at the lower end of the feed hopper (4), below the outlet end of the lowest first horizontal mesh conveyor (5), or below the outlet end of the lowest second horizontal mesh conveyor (21). A transversely arranged feeding shaft (29) is rotatably connected to each transverse feeding port (28). A device for driving the corresponding feeding is installed on the outside of the housing (1) at each transverse feeding port (28). The feeding rotating motor (30) rotates the shaft (29). Each horizontal feeding port (28) has an arc-shaped sealing plate (31) on both sides that cooperates with the corresponding feeding rotating shaft (29). Each feeding rotating shaft (29) has multiple rotating baffles (32) arranged in a circular pattern on its outer periphery. The edge of each rotating baffle (32) can contact the inner wall of the corresponding arc-shaped sealing plate (31). There are always at least two rotating baffles (32) on the outside of each feeding rotating shaft (29) that have their edges in contact with the inner walls of the two opposite arc-shaped sealing plates (31).

3. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 2, characterized in that, Each rotating stop bar (32) has a rubber sealing strip (33) on its edge that can contact the inner wall of the corresponding arc-shaped sealing plate (31).

4. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A raking baffle (34) is laterally arranged in the steam chamber (2) at the entrance end of the first sealed feeding mechanism away from the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor (5). A raking baffle (34) is laterally arranged in the drying chamber (3) at the entrance end of the second sealed feeding mechanism away from the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor (21). Each raking baffle (34) has multiple rake teeth distributed along its length connected downwards at its lower edge. Each rake tooth includes an elastic rubber connecting section (35) connected to the corresponding raking baffle and a hard raking section (36) connected to the free end of the corresponding elastic connecting section. The lower end of each hard raking section (36) has a gap between it and the conveyor belt of the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor (5) or the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor (21).

5. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The upper end of the housing (1) is provided with a pressure regulating valve communicating with the top of the steam chamber (2). The pressure regulating valve includes a valve body sleeve (13) arranged upward at the upper end of the housing (1). A valve body inner tube (14) is arranged vertically inside the valve body sleeve (13). An exhaust hole communicating with the steam chamber (2) is opened in the valve body inner tube (14) at the upper end of the housing (1). The inner diameter of the exhaust hole is smaller than the inner diameter of the valve body inner tube (14). The outer wall of the valve body inner tube (14) is opened. The valve body sleeve (13) is provided with several pressure relief holes (15), and an exhaust pipe (16) is connected to the valve body sleeve (13) to the outside. A vertically arranged telescopic motor (17) is installed at the upper end of the valve body sleeve (13). The telescopic axis of the telescopic motor (17) extends downward into the valve body inner tube (14) and is connected to a pressure plate (18). A piston plate (19) is slidably connected to the inner wall of the valve body inner tube (14) below the pressure plate (18). A pressure spring (20) is provided between the pressure plate (18) and the piston plate (19).

6. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The upper end of the housing (1) is provided with a safety pressure valve (37) that communicates with the top of the steam chamber (2).

7. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (1) is rotatably connected to both ends of the conveyor belt of each first horizontal mesh chain conveyor (5), and the end of each first drive shaft (6) is connected to a first transmission pulley (7) extending out of the steam chamber (2). The first transmission pulleys (7) on the first horizontal mesh chain conveyor (5) offset on the same side are driven by a belt (8). Multiple first drive motors (9) are installed outside the housing (1), and the first drive motors (9) are respectively connected to the first drive shafts (6) of the first horizontal mesh chain conveyor (5) that are staggered on the left and right. The housing (1) is rotatably connected to both ends of the conveyor belt of each second horizontal mesh chain conveyor (21), and the end of each second drive shaft (22) is connected to a second transmission pulley (23) extending out of the steam chamber (2). The second transmission pulleys (23) on the second horizontal mesh chain conveyors (21) offset on the same side are driven by a belt (8). Multiple second drive motors (24) are installed outside the housing (1), and the second drive motors (24) are respectively connected to the second drive shafts (22) of the second horizontal mesh chain conveyors (21) that are distributed alternately on the left and right.

8. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (1) is provided with a receiving groove (25) below the third sealing and feeding mechanism.

9. The integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heating module is a microwave generator (26) disposed on the outer wall of the drying chamber (3), and the inner wall of the drying chamber (3) is provided with a metal microwave reflective layer.

10. A method for processing Polygonatum yunnanense, using the integrated high-pressure steam-vacuum drying device as described in any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1. Select authentic, unrotten, thick rhizomes of Polygonatum yunnanense, and wash and remove the fibrous roots; S2. Place the cleaned medicinal materials in a normal pressure steam cabinet to soften for about 30 to 45 minutes, until chopsticks can be inserted but are not easily broken. While hot, use a slicer to cut them into slices 3 to 4 mm thick. S3. Moisten the auxiliary materials. Use 15 to 20 kg of rice wine per 100 kg of Polygonatum slices. Mix the two thoroughly and place them in a sealed container to moisten for 2 to 4 hours, stirring once or twice during the process. S4. Before the material enters, the equipment needs to be started for preheating. The heating module is turned on to raise the temperature of the drying chamber (3) to 60 to 70 degrees Celsius. The steam inlet pipe (12) is connected to the steam generator, and a small amount of steam is introduced into the steam chamber (2) for preheating. S5. The moistened Polygonatum slices are fed into the feed hopper (4) at a uniform speed, and the material is gradually spread into a single layer on the uppermost first horizontal mesh conveyor (5) by the first sealed feeding mechanism. S6. After the material enters the steam chamber (2), saturated steam is introduced and the pressure in the steam chamber (2) is stably controlled at 0.10 to 0.12 MPa and the temperature is controlled at 120 to 125 degrees Celsius. The material is conveyed down step by step in the steam chamber (2) by multiple first horizontal mesh chain conveyors (5) arranged in a serpentine pattern, so that the total residence time of the material in the chamber is between 70 and 90 minutes. S7. The steamed material that meets the standards is then transferred smoothly and continuously through the second sealed feeding mechanism to the uppermost second horizontal mesh conveyor (21) in the drying chamber (3) to enter the drying stage. At this time, the vacuum pump (27) should be started to slowly increase the vacuum degree in the drying chamber (3) and stabilize it in the range of -0.08 to -0.095 MPa. In the upper part of the drying chamber (3), the temperature is precisely controlled at 90 to 100 degrees Celsius by the heating module to remove the moisture from the surface of the material. In the middle part of the drying chamber (3), the temperature drops to 75 to 80 degrees Celsius for the main drying. In the lower part, the temperature drops to 55 to 60 degrees Celsius. The total residence time of the material in the entire drying chamber (3) is controlled to be between 80 and 90 minutes, so that the moisture content of the product does not exceed 12%. S8. The dried material is finally discharged through the third sealing feeding mechanism, naturally cooled to room temperature, and then vacuum-sealed or nitrogen-filled packaged.

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