Blending process cut tobacco unloading control method and device, electronic equipment and storage medium

CN122276376APending Publication Date: 2026-06-26CHINA TOBACCO GUANGDONG IND

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
CHINA TOBACCO GUANGDONG IND
Filing Date
2026-03-26
Publication Date
2026-06-26

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In current tobacco production, the cleaning process requires operators to manually switch between multiple control interfaces, which is inefficient, unstable, and prone to omissions, posing safety hazards.

Method used

The semi-automatic unloading control module, integrated into the segment control PLC, automatically controls the unloading process of the feeder and electronic belt scale through instructions from the central control system. This includes unloading start sequence, safety stop sequence, and mode switching, simplifying the operation process and improving the degree of automation.

Benefits of technology

It has achieved automation and improved stability in the unloading process, reduced human intervention, avoided the risk of pattern forgetting, and ensured the safety and efficiency of the cleaning process.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention discloses a method, apparatus, electronic device, and storage medium for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds in a blending process. The method includes: activating a semi-automatic unloading control module in response to a first instruction sent by a central control system, controlling the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute an unloading start sequence, and sending a first signal to the central control system; controlling the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute a safety stop sequence in response to a second instruction sent by the central control system, so as to stop the target equipment; the safety stop sequence is related to stopping the target equipment; when the safety stop sequence is determined to be completed, controlling the target equipment to enter a fully automatic mode, sending a second message to the central control system, and controlling the semi-automatic unloading control module to shut down, so that the central control system can fully automatically take over the production of the second blending section. This invention greatly simplifies the operation process, improves unloading efficiency, and enhances the stability and safety of the unloading process.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of tobacco processing technology, and in particular to a method, apparatus, electronic device, and storage medium for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds during the blending process. Background Technology

[0002] In actual production, when a batch of tobacco is finished, if the next batch is of a different brand, the remaining material of the current brand in the feeder of the blending material section and the downstream electronic belt scale must be completely unloaded (i.e., "cleaning") to avoid mixing of brands.

[0003] The current material handling process is generally as follows: First, the operator switches the feeder's control mode from "automatic" to "manual" on the segment control system interface (usually the feeder's local or area controller). Simultaneously, on the electronic belt scale's independent control instrument or interface, the operator also switches its control mode from "automatic" to "manual." Afterward, based on experience, the operator manually starts the belt scale and then manually starts the feeder to unload, manually stopping it according to the material conditions. After unloading is complete, a crucial and easily overlooked step is that the operator must switch the control modes of both the feeder and the electronic belt scale back to "automatic" on both systems.

[0004] However, current unloading control methods require operators to perform multiple mode switching and manual start / stop operations on at least two independent control interfaces. This involves numerous steps, low efficiency, and the speed matching and timing of manual unloading rely on personal experience, resulting in poor stability. Furthermore, in high-intensity, fast-paced production environments, operators are highly likely to forget or neglect to switch the equipment back to "automatic" mode after completing manual unloading, leading to serious safety hazards. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides a method, device, electronic equipment, and storage medium for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds in the blending process, which greatly simplifies the operation process, improves unloading efficiency, and enhances the stability and safety of the unloading process.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds in a blending process is provided, applied to a segment control PLC. The segment control PLC integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module, which, upon receiving a signal that the blending process is in the cleaning stage (switching from a first blending section to a second blending section), takes over control of the target equipment. The method includes: In response to a first instruction sent by the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is activated, and the module is controlled to execute an unloading start sequence and send a first signal to the central control system. The first instruction indicates that the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage, switching from the first blending section to the second blending section. The unloading start sequence indicates the unloading operation information of the target equipment. The first signal informs the central control system that control of the target equipment has been locked. In response to a second command sent by the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is controlled to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment; the safety stop sequence is related to stopping the target equipment. When the safety stop sequence is completed, the target device is controlled to enter fully automatic mode, and a second message is sent to the central control system. The semi-automatic unloading control module is also controlled to shut down, so that the central control system can take over the production of the second blending section in a fully automatic manner. The second message includes that the control of the target device has been unlocked and that the target device has entered fully automatic mode.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, a tobacco unloading control device for a blending process is provided, applied to a segment control PLC. The segment control PLC integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module. The semi-automatic unloading control module is used to take over control of the target equipment after receiving a signal that the blending process is in the cleaning stage, switching from the first blending section to the second blending section. The device includes: The first information processing module is used to respond to a first instruction sent by the central control system, activate the semi-automatic unloading control module, control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute the unloading start sequence, and send a first signal to the central control system; the first instruction is used to indicate that the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage of switching from the first blending section to the second blending section; the unloading start sequence is used to indicate the unloading operation information of the target equipment; the first signal is used to inform the central control system that the control of the target equipment has been locked. The second information processing module is used to respond to a second instruction sent by the central control system and control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment; the safety stop sequence is related to stopping the target equipment. The third information processing module is used to control the target equipment to enter fully automatic mode when it is determined that the safety stop sequence has been completed, and to send second information to the central control system, and to control the semi-automatic unloading control module to shut down so that the central control system can take over the production of the second blending section in a fully automatic manner; the second information includes that the control of the target equipment has been unlocked and that the target equipment has entered fully automatic mode.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present invention, an electronic device is provided, the electronic device comprising: At least one processor; and A memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein, The memory stores a computer program that can be executed by the at least one processor, which enables the at least one processor to perform the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process according to any embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, the computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for causing a processor to execute and implement the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process according to any embodiment of the present invention.

[0010] The tobacco unloading control method for the blending process in this invention can be applied to a segment control PLC. The segment control PLC integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module. This module, upon receiving a signal that the blending process is in the cleaning stage (switching from the first blending section to the second blending section), takes over control of the target equipment to simplify the cleaning operation. Specifically, in response to a first instruction from the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is activated and controls it to execute the unloading start sequence, and sends a first signal to the central control system. The first instruction indicates that the current blending process is in the cleaning stage (switching from the first blending section to the second blending section); the unloading start sequence indicates the target equipment's unloading operation information, achieving automated cleaning and improving unloading efficiency; the first signal informs the central control system that control of the target equipment has been locked, providing a real-time reminder that the target equipment is occupied. This means that the full-process automatic formulation instructions issued by the central control system will be temporarily blocked to prevent instruction conflicts and ensure the cleaning process is completed safely and accurately, greatly avoiding the mixing of tobacco with two different formulations. Then, in response to the second instruction sent by the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is controlled to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment. The safety stop sequence contains relevant information about stopping the target equipment. This allows for precise control of the timing of stopping the target equipment, and the entire process from start to finish is controlled by instructions sent by the central control system. This avoids the need for multiple interfaces for the cleaning operation, greatly simplifying the cleaning process and automating the process, thus improving the stability and efficiency of the unloading process. Furthermore, once the safety stop sequence is confirmed to be completed, the target equipment is controlled to enter fully automatic mode, and a second message is sent to the central control system. The semi-automatic unloading control module is also controlled to shut down, allowing the central control system to automatically take over the production of the second blending section. The second message includes that the control of the target equipment has been unlocked and that the target equipment has entered fully automatic mode. This unlocks the target equipment after cleaning and promptly informs the central control system that it can take over the production of the target equipment in the second blending section. This greatly avoids situations where operators forget or neglect to switch the equipment back to fully automatic mode after completing manual unloading, fundamentally eliminating the risk of "mode forgetting" and providing safety throughout the entire process.

[0011] It should be understood that the description in this section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of the present invention, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the invention. Other features of the invention will become readily apparent from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0012] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0013] Figure 1 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds in a blending process according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a structural diagram of a feeder and an electronic belt scale applicable to embodiments of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a tobacco shred unloading control device for a blending process according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device for implementing the tobacco unloading control method in the blending process according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0014] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present invention, the technical solutions of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0015] It should be noted that the terms "first," "second," etc., in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this invention are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of the invention described herein can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0016] Example 1 Figure 1This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds in a blending process, provided by an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is applicable to situations where, after the production of one batch of tobacco shreds is completed, if the next batch is of a different grade, the remaining material of the current grade in the feeder of the blending material section and the downstream electronic belt scale must be completely unloaded. This method can be executed by a tobacco shred unloading control device for the blending process. This tobacco shred unloading control device for the blending process can be implemented in hardware and / or software, and can be configured in any electronic device with network communication capabilities. Figure 1 As shown, the method for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds in the blending process of the present invention may include the following steps: S110. In response to the first instruction sent by the central control system, activate the semi-automatic unloading control module, control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute the unloading start sequence, and send a first signal to the central control system; the first instruction is used to indicate that the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage of switching from the first blending section to the second blending section; the unloading start sequence is used to indicate the target equipment to execute the unloading operation information; the first signal is used to inform the central control system that the control of the target equipment has been locked.

[0017] This invention relates to a tobacco unloading control method for the blending process, applied to a segment control PLC. The segment control PLC integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module. This module takes over control of the target equipment upon receiving a signal indicating that the blending process is transitioning from the first blending section to the cleaning stage (switching to the second blending section). The segment control PLC serves as a secondary control node between the equipment PLC and the central control system (MES). The segment control PLC can uniformly manage all equipment within the blending section, collecting real-time signals such as flow rate, weight, material level, photoelectric sensors, and speed. It then reports the status to the higher-level central control system and issues precise control commands to the lower-level equipment.

[0018] Specifically, during the fully automated takeover of the first blending stage, when the central control system receives a notification that the second blending stage will begin production in the next phase, and that the blending formulas for the first and second blending stages are different, the central control system will issue a first instruction to the segment control PLC when the first blending stage is nearing completion. The segment control PLC will then activate the semi-automatic unloading control module based on this instruction and take over the target equipment. This means the target equipment will only follow the fully automated process instructions from the segment control PLC and will automatically ignore the fully automated mode instructions from the central control system. The segment control PLC will then control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute the unloading start sequence, meaning the target equipment will execute the unloading operation information according to the unloading start sequence instructions, thus controlling the operation of the target equipment.

[0019] Optionally, the target equipment may include a feeder and an electronic belt scale; for example, such as Figure 2As shown, the electronic belt scale can be the main blade tobacco scale and the airflow tobacco scale. The unloading start sequence can include: first, sending a start command to the electronic belt scale; when the electronic belt scale reaches the first preset unloading speed and the electronic belt scale is confirmed to be running stably, then sending a start command to the feeder and controlling the feeder to run at a speed that matches the running speed of the electronic belt scale.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present invention, optionally, the display interface of the central control system includes a second control; the second control is used to activate the semi-automatic unloading control module; the first instruction is generated by triggering the second control. For example, the display interface of the central control system is configured with a second control specifically for "semi-automatic unloading start". When the second control is triggered, the central control system generates a corresponding first instruction and sends the first instruction to the segment control PLC. The segment control PLC, according to the first instruction, activates the semi-automatic unloading control module and controls the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute the unloading start sequence, and sends a first signal to the central control system. In this embodiment of the present invention, by triggering the second control on the display interface of the central control system, the central control system issues a first instruction, avoiding the need for operators to manually unload on the display interfaces of multiple target devices, greatly simplifying the unloading process, significantly reducing reliance on personal experience, and achieving a more precise control process.

[0021] Optionally, in an embodiment of the present invention, after activating the semi-automatic unloading control module, the method further includes: sending third information to the central control system; the third information is used to instruct the activation of a first control on the display interface of the central control system; the first control is used to control the operating status of the target equipment, and the first control is only activated on the display interface of the central control system after the semi-automatic unloading control module is activated, so that during the material clearing process, the operator can monitor the flow rate on the central control system and make fine adjustments to the operating status of the target equipment according to the timing. That is, the present invention provides the ability to automatically control the operation of the target equipment through the semi-automatic unloading control module, and can also actively and flexibly make fine adjustments according to the material conditions on site, avoiding the arbitrariness and instability of completely manual operation, and realizing a safe combination of "manual decision-making" and "automatic execution", that is, achieving a balance between flexibility and controllability.

[0022] Optionally, the first control may include an acceleration control, a deceleration control, and a jog control. The jog control process can be as follows: triggering the jog control once will cause the target device to receive control information indicating that it will run at a preset speed for a preset time. Specifically, when the current blending process is in the material clearing stage of switching from the first blending section to the second blending section, and the target device has entered a stable unloading state, upon receiving control information from the central control system, the operating state of the target device is controlled based on the control information; control commands are generated by triggering the first control. For example, when the target device is a feeder, after the feeder enters a stable unloading state, the operator can monitor the flow rate on the display interface of the central control system and, according to the actual situation, fine-tune the feeder by triggering the acceleration control, deceleration control, or jog control to optimize the material clearing effect; the speed of the electronic belt scale is usually kept constant.

[0023] Optionally, the method further includes: if a fault signal is detected from the target device, controlling the target device to stop and sending fault information to the central control system. For example, the segment control PLC continuously monitors the operating status of the target device. If a device fault (such as motor overload or material blockage) is detected during the unloading process, the unloading process will be automatically interrupted, a safe shutdown will be performed, and an alarm prompt will be displayed on the central control system's display interface; ensuring the safe operation of the equipment.

[0024] S120, in response to the second instruction sent by the central control system, controls the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment; the safety stop sequence is related to stopping the target equipment.

[0025] The second instruction indicates that the remaining material in the first blending section has been cleaned up.

[0026] Specifically, the central control system uses the unloading information such as flow rate, weight, and material level sent by the segment control PLC to determine that the remaining material in the first blending section has been cleaned up. Then, the central control system sends a second instruction to the segment control PLC. According to the second instruction, the segment control PLC controls the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment.

[0027] Optionally, the target equipment includes a feeder and an electronic belt scale; the safety stop sequence may include: first controlling the feeder to stop, then waiting for a preset time, and then controlling the electronic belt scale to stop.

[0028] In an embodiment of the present invention, optionally, the display interface of the central control system includes a third control; the third control is used to inform the semi-automatic unloading control module that the target equipment has completed unloading: the second instruction is generated by triggering the third control. For example, the display interface of the central control system is configured with a third control specifically for "semi-automatic unloading completed". When the third control is triggered, the central control system generates a corresponding second instruction and sends it to the segment control PLC. The segment control PLC controls the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute a safety stop sequence, that is, first controlling the feeder to stop, then waiting for a preset time, and then controlling the electronic belt scale to stop. In this embodiment of the present invention, by triggering the third control on the display interface of the central control system, the central control system issues a second instruction, avoiding the need for operators to manually control the equipment to stop on the display interfaces of multiple target devices. This greatly simplifies the unloading process, significantly reduces reliance on personal experience, lowers labor intensity and skill requirements, and significantly improves the efficiency of material clearing operations.

[0029] S130. When the safe stop sequence is completed, the target equipment is controlled to enter the fully automatic mode and a second message is sent to the central control system. The semi-automatic unloading control module is also controlled to shut down so that the central control system can take over the production of the second blending section in a fully automatic manner. The second message includes that the control of the target equipment has been unlocked and that the target equipment has entered the fully automatic mode.

[0030] For example, once the safety stop sequence is completed, the control mode of the feeder and electronic belt scale is seamlessly and forcibly restored to "fully automatic mode," and a "equipment release" and "fully automatic mode restoration" signal is sent to the central control system. At the same time, the semi-automatic unloading control module is shut down so that the central control system can automatically take over the production of the second blending section.

[0031] Through the logical design of the system, this invention forces the equipment control mode to automatically return to fully automatic mode after the unloading task is completed. The step of returning to fully automatic mode is a step guaranteed by the system and cannot be skipped or omitted. This fundamentally eliminates major quality accidents caused by the equipment remaining in manual mode due to operator negligence, and the safety is revolutionaryly improved.

[0032] The tobacco unloading control method for the blending process in this invention can be applied to a segment control PLC. The segment control PLC integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module. This module, upon receiving a signal that the blending process is in the cleaning stage (switching from the first blending section to the second blending section), takes over control of the target equipment to simplify the cleaning operation. Specifically, in response to a first instruction from the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is activated and controls it to execute the unloading start sequence, and sends a first signal to the central control system. The first instruction indicates that the current blending process is in the cleaning stage (switching from the first blending section to the second blending section); the unloading start sequence indicates the target equipment's unloading operation information, achieving automated cleaning and improving unloading efficiency; the first signal informs the central control system that control of the target equipment has been locked, providing a real-time reminder that the target equipment is occupied. This means that the full-process automatic formulation instructions issued by the central control system will be temporarily blocked to prevent instruction conflicts and ensure the cleaning process is completed safely and accurately, greatly avoiding the mixing of tobacco with two different formulations. Then, in response to the second instruction sent by the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is controlled to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment. The safety stop sequence contains relevant information about stopping the target equipment. This allows for precise control of the timing of stopping the target equipment, and the entire process from start to finish is controlled by instructions sent by the central control system. This avoids the need for multiple interfaces for the cleaning operation, greatly simplifying the cleaning process and automating the process, thus improving the stability and efficiency of the unloading process. Furthermore, once the safety stop sequence is confirmed to be completed, the target equipment is controlled to enter fully automatic mode, and a second message is sent to the central control system. The semi-automatic unloading control module is also controlled to shut down, allowing the central control system to automatically take over the production of the second blending section. The second message includes that the control of the target equipment has been unlocked and that the target equipment has entered fully automatic mode. This unlocks the target equipment after cleaning and promptly informs the central control system that it can take over the production of the target equipment in the second blending section. This greatly avoids situations where operators forget or neglect to switch the equipment back to fully automatic mode after completing manual unloading, fundamentally eliminating the risk of "mode forgetting" and providing safety throughout the entire process.

[0033] Example 2 Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of a tobacco unloading control device for a blending process provided in an embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment is applicable to situations where, after the production of one batch of tobacco is completed, if the next batch is of a different grade, the remaining material of the current grade in the feeder of the blending material section and the downstream electronic belt scale must be completely unloaded. This tobacco unloading control device for the blending process can be implemented in hardware and / or software and can be configured in any electronic device with network communication capabilities. The tobacco unloading control device for the blending process of the present invention is applied to a segment control PLC, which integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module. The semi-automatic unloading control module is used to take over control of the target equipment after receiving a signal that the blending process is in the cleaning stage, switching from the first blending section to the second blending section. Figure 3 As shown, the tobacco shred unloading control device for the blending process of the present invention may include: The first information processing module 210 is used to activate the semi-automatic unloading control module in response to a first instruction sent by the central control system, and to control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute the unloading start sequence, and to send a first signal to the central control system; the first instruction is used to indicate that the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage of switching from the first blending section to the second blending section; the unloading start sequence is used to indicate the unloading operation information of the target equipment; the first signal is used to inform the central control system that the control of the target equipment has been locked. The second information processing module 220 is used to respond to a second instruction sent by the central control system to control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute a safety stop sequence so as to stop the target equipment; the safety stop sequence is related to stopping the target equipment. The third information processing module 230 is used to control the target device to enter fully automatic mode when it is determined that the safety stop sequence has been completed, and to send second information to the central control system, and to control the semi-automatic unloading control module to shut down so that the central control system can take over the production of the second blending section in a fully automatic manner; the second information includes that the control of the target device has been unlocked and that the target device has entered fully automatic mode.

[0034] Based on the above embodiments, optionally, the target device includes a feeder and an electronic belt scale; the unloading start sequence includes: first, issuing a start command to the electronic belt scale; when the electronic belt scale reaches a first preset unloading speed and it is determined that the electronic belt scale is running stably, then issuing a start command to the feeder and controlling the feeder to run at a speed matching the running speed of the electronic belt scale; the safety stop sequence includes: first controlling the feeder to stop, then waiting for a preset time, and then controlling the electronic belt scale to stop.

[0035] Optionally, after activating the semi-automatic unloading control module, the device further includes a data transmission module, which is used to: send third information to the central control system; the third information is used to instruct the activation of a first control on the display interface of the central control system; the first control is used to control the operating status of the target device.

[0036] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, the first control includes an acceleration control, a deceleration control, and a jog control.

[0037] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, the device further includes a control module, which is used to: when the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage of switching from the first blending section to the second blending section, and the target equipment enters a stable unloading state, upon receiving control information sent by the central control system, control the operating state of the target equipment based on the control information; the control command is generated by triggering the first control.

[0038] Based on the above embodiments, optionally, the display interface of the central control system includes a second control and a third control; the second control is used to activate the semi-automatic unloading control module; the third control is used to inform the semi-automatic unloading control module that the target device has completed unloading: the first instruction is generated by triggering the second control; the second instruction is generated by triggering the third control.

[0039] Optionally, based on the above embodiments, the device further includes a detection module, which is used to: if a fault signal is detected from the target device, control the target device to stop and send fault information to the central control system.

[0040] The tobacco unloading control device for the blending process provided in this embodiment of the invention can execute the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process provided in any embodiment of the invention, and has the corresponding functional modules and beneficial effects of the method.

[0041] Example 3 According to embodiments of this disclosure, this disclosure also provides an electronic device, a readable storage medium, and a computer program product.

[0042] Figure 4A schematic diagram of an electronic device is shown that can be used to implement the tobacco unloading control method in the blending process of embodiments of the present invention. The electronic device is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, such as laptop computers, desktop computers, workbenches, personal digital assistants, servers, blade servers, mainframe computers, and other suitable computers. The electronic device can also represent various forms of mobile devices, such as personal digital processors, cellular phones, smartphones, wearable devices (such as helmets, glasses, watches, etc.), and other similar computing devices. The components shown herein, their connections and relationships, and their functions are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the implementation of the invention described and / or claimed herein.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, the electronic device 10 includes at least one processor 11 and a memory, such as a read-only memory (ROM) 12 or a random access memory (RAM) 13, communicatively connected to the at least one processor 11. The memory stores computer programs executable by the at least one processor. The processor 11 can perform various appropriate actions and processes based on the computer program stored in the ROM 12 or loaded from storage unit 18 into the RAM 13. The RAM 13 may also store various programs and data required for the operation of the electronic device 10. The processor 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output (I / O) interface 15 is also connected to the bus 14.

[0044] Multiple components in electronic device 10 are connected to I / O interface 15, including: input unit 16, such as keyboard, mouse, etc.; output unit 17, such as various types of displays, speakers, etc.; storage unit 18, such as disk, optical disk, etc.; and communication unit 19, such as network card, modem, wireless transceiver, etc. Communication unit 19 allows electronic device 10 to exchange information / data with other devices through computer networks such as the Internet and / or various telecommunications networks.

[0045] Processor 11 can be a variety of general-purpose and / or special-purpose processing components with processing and computing capabilities. Some examples of processor 11 include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), various special-purpose artificial intelligence (AI) computing chips, various processors running machine learning model algorithms, digital signal processors (DSPs), and any suitable processor, controller, microcontroller, etc. Processor 11 performs the various methods and processes described above, such as the tobacco unloading control method in the blending process.

[0046] In some embodiments, the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process can be implemented as a computer program tangibly contained in a computer-readable storage medium, such as storage unit 18. In some embodiments, part or all of the computer program can be loaded and / or installed on electronic device 10 via read-only memory (ROM) 12 and / or communication unit 19. When the computer program is loaded into random access memory (RAM) 13 and executed by processor 11, one or more steps of the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process described above can be performed. Alternatively, in other embodiments, processor 11 can be configured to perform the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process by any other suitable means (e.g., by means of firmware).

[0047] Various embodiments of the systems and techniques described above herein can be implemented in digital electronic circuit systems, integrated circuit systems, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), application-specific standard products (ASSPs), system-on-a-chip (SoCs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), computer hardware, firmware, software, and / or combinations thereof. These various embodiments may include implementations in one or more computer programs that can be executed and / or interpreted on a programmable system including at least one programmable processor, which may be a dedicated or general-purpose programmable processor, capable of receiving data and instructions from a storage system, at least one input device, and at least one output device, and transmitting data and instructions to the storage system, the at least one input device, and the at least one output device.

[0048] Computer programs used to implement the methods of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. These computer programs may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device, such that when executed by the processor, the computer programs cause the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be performed. The computer programs may be executed entirely on a machine, partially on a machine, or as a standalone software package, partially on a machine and partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0049] In the context of this invention, a computer-readable storage medium can be a tangible medium that may contain or store a computer program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. A computer-readable storage medium may include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatus, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. Alternatively, a computer-readable storage medium may be a machine-readable signal medium. More specific examples of machine-readable storage media include electrical connections based on one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof.

[0050] To provide interaction with a user, the systems and techniques described herein can be implemented on an electronic device having: a display device (e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor) for displaying information to the user; and a keyboard and pointing device (e.g., a mouse or trackball) through which the user provides input to the electronic device. Other types of devices can also be used to provide interaction with the user; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback); and input from the user can be received in any form (including sound input, voice input, or tactile input).

[0051] The systems and technologies described herein can be implemented in computing systems that include backend components (e.g., as data servers), or middleware components (e.g., application servers), or frontend components (e.g., user computers with graphical user interfaces or web browsers through which users can interact with implementations of the systems and technologies described herein), or any combination of such backend, middleware, or frontend components. The components of the system can be interconnected via digital data communication of any form or medium (e.g., communication networks). Examples of communication networks include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), blockchain networks, and the Internet.

[0052] A computing system can include clients and servers. Clients and servers are generally located far apart and typically interact through communication networks. The client-server relationship is created by computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship with each other. The server can be a cloud server, also known as a cloud computing server or cloud host, which is a hosting product within the cloud computing service system to address the shortcomings of traditional physical hosts and VPS services, such as high management difficulty and weak business scalability.

[0053] It should be understood that the various forms of processes shown above can be used, with steps reordered, added, or deleted. For example, the steps described in this invention can be executed in parallel, sequentially, or in different orders, as long as the desired result of the technical solution of this invention can be achieved, and this is not limited herein.

[0054] The specific embodiments described above do not constitute a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. Those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, combinations, sub-combinations, and substitutions can be made according to design requirements and other factors. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this invention should be included within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the unloading of tobacco shreds in the blending process, characterized in that, This method is applied to a segment control PLC, which integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module. The semi-automatic unloading control module, upon receiving a signal that the blending process is in the material clearing stage (switching from the first blending section to the second blending section), takes over control of the target equipment. The method includes: In response to a first instruction sent by the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is activated, and the module is controlled to execute an unloading start sequence and send a first signal to the central control system. The first instruction indicates that the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage, switching from the first blending section to the second blending section. The unloading start sequence indicates the unloading operation information of the target equipment. The first signal informs the central control system that control of the target equipment has been locked. In response to a second command sent by the central control system, the semi-automatic unloading control module is controlled to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment; the safety stop sequence is related to stopping the target equipment. When the safety stop sequence is completed, the target device is controlled to enter fully automatic mode, and a second message is sent to the central control system. The semi-automatic unloading control module is also controlled to shut down, so that the central control system can take over the production of the second blending section in a fully automatic manner. The second message includes that the control of the target device has been unlocked and that the target device has entered fully automatic mode.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The target equipment includes a feeder and an electronic belt scale; The unloading start sequence includes: first, sending a start command to the electronic belt scale; when the electronic belt scale reaches the first preset unloading speed and it is determined that the electronic belt scale is running stably, then sending a start command to the feeder and controlling the feeder to run at a speed that matches the running speed of the electronic belt scale. The safety stop sequence includes: first controlling the feeder to stop, then waiting for a preset time, and then controlling the electronic belt scale to stop.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, After activating the semi-automatic unloading control module, the method further includes: A third message is sent to the central control system; the third message is used to instruct the activation of a first control on the display interface of the central control system; the first control is used to control the operating status of the target device.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first control includes an acceleration control, a deceleration control, and a jog control.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage of switching from the first blending section to the second blending section, and the target equipment enters a stable unloading state, when the control information sent by the central control system is received, the operating state of the target equipment is controlled based on the control information; the control command is generated by triggering the first control.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The central control system's display interface includes a second control and a third control; the second control is used to activate the semi-automatic unloading control module; the third control is used to inform the semi-automatic unloading control module that the target equipment has completed unloading. The first instruction is generated by triggering the second control; the second instruction is generated by triggering the third control.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: If a fault signal is detected from the target device, the target device is controlled to stop, and fault information is sent to the central control system.

8. A tobacco shred unloading control device for a blending process, characterized in that, This device is applied to a segment control PLC, which integrates a semi-automatic unloading control module. The semi-automatic unloading control module takes over control of the target equipment after receiving a signal that the blending process is in the cleaning stage, switching from the first blending section to the second blending section. The device includes: The first information processing module is used to respond to a first instruction sent by the central control system, activate the semi-automatic unloading control module, control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute the unloading start sequence, and send a first signal to the central control system; the first instruction is used to indicate that the current blending process is in the material cleaning stage of switching from the first blending section to the second blending section; the unloading start sequence is used to indicate the unloading operation information of the target equipment; the first signal is used to inform the central control system that the control of the target equipment has been locked. The second information processing module is used to respond to a second instruction sent by the central control system and control the semi-automatic unloading control module to execute a safety stop sequence to stop the target equipment; the safety stop sequence is related to stopping the target equipment. The third information processing module is used to control the target equipment to enter fully automatic mode when it is determined that the safety stop sequence has been completed, and to send second information to the central control system, and to control the semi-automatic unloading control module to shut down so that the central control system can take over the production of the second blending section in a fully automatic manner; the second information includes that the control of the target equipment has been unlocked and that the target equipment has entered fully automatic mode.

9. An electronic device, characterized in that, The electronic device includes: At least one processor; and A memory communicatively connected to the at least one processor; wherein, The memory stores a computer program that can be executed by the at least one processor, the computer program being executed by the at least one processor to enable the at least one processor to perform the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process according to any one of claims 1-7.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the tobacco unloading control method for the blending process as described in any one of claims 1-7.