Tableware recycling and cleaning system

Abstract

The application provides a tableware recycling and cleaning system, comprising: a first conveying line body for receiving and conveying a tray and tableware placed on the tray, the tableware comprising at least one size of bowl and at least one size of dish, the first conveying line body being provided with a separation position for separating the tableware from the tray and making the tableware leave the first conveying line body; a second conveying line body for receiving the tableware separated from the tray; a dishwasher arranged on the second conveying line body, the dishwasher being used for cleaning the bowls and dishes; and a sorting mechanism arranged on the second conveying line body and located on the downstream side of the dishwasher, the sorting mechanism being used for sorting the bowls and dishes according to the size. Thus, the process of manually sorting the bowls and dishes by workers can be replaced. The sorting of the tableware also belongs to the part of the tableware recycling and cleaning work, therefore, the overall work efficiency of the tableware recycling and cleaning work can be improved by replacing the manual sorting of the tableware by workers with the sorting mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of automation technology, and in particular to a tableware recycling and cleaning system. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, some canteens have equipped themselves with automated recycling and cleaning systems to improve the efficiency of tableware collection and cleaning. After finishing their meals, diners simply place their trays and tableware on a conveyor belt at a designated location. The conveyor belt then collects the trays and tableware, which are then sent to tray cleaning units and dishwashers via different conveyor lines for cleaning.

[0003] Some tableware recycling and cleaning systems in related technologies still require worker cooperation in certain stages of operation. The involvement of workers can affect the efficiency of the system, meaning that there is still room for improvement in the efficiency of tableware recycling and cleaning systems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a tableware recycling and cleaning system designed to reduce the number of steps requiring human intervention, thereby increasing automation and improving the efficiency of tableware recycling and cleaning.

[0005] The specific technical solution is as follows:

[0006] This application provides a tableware recycling and cleaning system, which includes:

[0007] A first conveyor line is used to receive and convey a tray and tableware placed on the tray. The tableware includes at least one type of bowl and at least one type of plate. The first conveyor line is provided with a separation position for separating the tableware from the tray and allowing the tableware to leave the first conveyor line.

[0008] The second conveyor line is used to receive the tableware after it has been separated from the tray;

[0009] A dishwasher, disposed on the second conveyor line, is used to wash the bowls and the plates; and

[0010] A sorting mechanism is provided on the second conveyor line and located downstream of the dishwasher. The sorting mechanism is used to sort the bowls and plates according to their specifications.

[0011] The tableware recycling and cleaning system in this embodiment includes a first conveyor line and a second conveyor line. The first conveyor line receives and transports trays and tableware placed by diners. At a separation point, the tableware separates from the tray and is transferred to the second conveyor line, moving with it to a dishwasher where it is cleaned. The system also includes a sorting mechanism located on the second conveyor line downstream of the dishwasher. This mechanism sorts the cleaned bowls and plates according to their size, separating bowls and plates of different sizes. This replaces the manual sorting of bowls and plates by workers. Since tableware sorting is part of the tableware recycling and cleaning process, using a sorting mechanism instead of manual sorting improves the overall efficiency of the recycling and cleaning process.

[0012] In some embodiments, the sorting mechanism includes:

[0013] Multiple baffles, each designed to block bowls or plates of one size, are positioned above the second conveyor line. A distance exists between the bottom of each baffle and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line to allow bowls and plates of other sizes to pass through.

[0014] Multiple collection boxes, each of the retaining walls is equipped with at least one of the collection boxes, the collection boxes being used to collect bowls or plates that have been separated by the retaining walls.

[0015] There is a distance between the bottom of the retaining wall and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line. The distance varies depending on the retaining wall. This distance needs to be set so that bowls or plates of one size cannot pass through, while bowls and plates of other sizes can pass through. By setting up multiple retaining walls and collection boxes used in conjunction with the retaining walls, bowls and plates of different sizes can be sorted out and stored separately.

[0016] In some embodiments, the sorting mechanism further includes a plurality of first transfer devices, with each collection box and the retaining wall having a first transfer device, the first transfer device being used to transfer the separated bowls or plates from the second conveyor line to the collection box.

[0017] Bowls or plates separated by the barrier are then transferred to the corresponding collection box by the first transfer device. This allows the bowls or plates to be transferred in a more stable manner, thereby reducing the chance of damage caused by bumps or drops.

[0018] In some embodiments, the retaining wall includes a first segment and a second segment connected to each other, the connection position of the first segment and the second segment forming a first pointed structure, the first pointed structure facing the upstream direction of the second conveyor line, and the first segment and the second segment are each equipped with a collection box.

[0019] The connection between the first and second sections forms a first pointed structure. This first pointed structure can divert bowls or plates that have separated due to obstruction by the baffle wall. One portion of the bowls or plates is guided by the first section to a collection box and its corresponding first transfer device, while the other portion is guided by the second section to another collection box and its corresponding first transfer device. This allows two first transfer devices to simultaneously transfer the separated bowls or plates, thereby improving sorting efficiency. Furthermore, it helps prevent separated bowls or plates from piling up and causing low throughput for other sizes of bowls and plates.

[0020] In some embodiments, the tableware further includes cups, and the dishwasher is also used to clean the cups; the tableware recycling and cleaning system further includes a cup separation device, which is disposed on the second conveyor line and located upstream of the sorting mechanism;

[0021] The cup separation device includes:

[0022] The first image acquisition unit is used to acquire images of tableware;

[0023] First robotic arm;

[0024] Cup storage box; and

[0025] The first controller, the first image acquisition unit, and the first robotic arm are all electrically connected to the first controller. The first controller is configured to determine whether there is a cup based on the image, and to control the first robotic arm to transfer the cup to the cup receiving box if a cup is determined to be present.

[0026] Because of the relatively high height of the cups, it is difficult to ensure that they remain upright after being washed in a dishwasher, making it difficult to sort them by setting up barriers. Therefore, the cups 303 are sorted separately before passing through the sorting mechanism 40. This prevents tipped cups 303 from being mixed into the sorted bowls 301.

[0027] In some embodiments, the tableware recycling and cleaning system further includes a paper towel separation device disposed on the first conveyor line and located upstream of the separation position, the paper towel separation device being used to separate paper towels from the tray.

[0028] After finishing their meal, diners typically use tissues to wipe their mouths or hands, and some leave the used tissues on the tray. To address this, the tableware recycling and cleaning system in this embodiment is equipped with a tissue separator. This device separates the tissues from the tray, preventing them from entering the dishwasher with the tableware. This helps avoid the risk of the tissues swelling upon contact with water and causing blockages in the dishwasher's drainage system.

[0029] In some embodiments, the tissue paper separating device includes:

[0030] tissue box;

[0031] An air duct, connected to the tissue box, has one end of the air duct away from the tissue box facing the conveying surface of the first conveyor line; and

[0032] A fan is installed inside the tissue box. The fan is used to create negative pressure in the air duct so that the tissues are drawn into the tissue box through the air duct.

[0033] With this setup, the paper towels can be separated by the suction of the fan, and the separated paper towels can be collected together by the paper towel collection box for subsequent centralized processing.

[0034] In some embodiments, the tableware further includes a spoon, and the tableware recycling and cleaning system further includes a spoon separation device, which is disposed on the first conveyor line and located upstream of the separation position;

[0035] The spoon separation device includes:

[0036] The second image acquisition unit is used to acquire images of the tableware;

[0037] Second robotic arm;

[0038] Spoon storage box; and

[0039] The second controller, the second image acquisition unit, and the second robotic arm are all electrically connected to the second controller. The second controller is configured to determine whether there is a spoon based on the image, and to control the second robotic arm to transfer the spoon to the spoon receiving box if a spoon is determined to be present.

[0040] Typically, cafeterias provide metal spoons, which are less prone to damage than porcelain spoons. However, dishwashers usually come with specific detergents, and prolonged use with these detergents can cause metal spoons to discolor or lose their luster.

[0041] Therefore, in this embodiment, the tableware recycling and washing system is also equipped with a spoon separation device. Before the tableware is conveyed to the separation position of the first conveyor line, the spoons are sorted out using the spoon separation device. In this way, the spoons are not transferred to the second conveyor line or enter the dishwasher, thereby avoiding problems such as discoloration and loss of luster caused by long-term washing with detergent.

[0042] In some embodiments, the tableware further includes chopsticks, and the tableware recycling and cleaning system further includes a chopsticks separation device, which is disposed on the second conveyor line and located upstream of the dishwasher;

[0043] The chopsticks separation device includes:

[0044] An upper conveyor belt is used to receive and transport the bowl, the plate, and the chopsticks. The upper conveyor belt is provided with a hollow section. The length of the hollow section is greater than the length of the chopsticks, and the width of the hollow section is greater than the width of the chopsticks and smaller than the diameter of the bowl and the plate.

[0045] A lower conveyor belt, located below the upper conveyor belt, is used to receive chopsticks falling through the hollow section;

[0046] A chopsticks storage box is located at one end of the lower conveyor belt, which is used to transport the chopsticks to the chopsticks storage box.

[0047] Typically, the chopsticks provided in cafeterias are made of wood or bamboo. To achieve better washing results, dishwashers usually heat the washing water, turning it into high-temperature water. However, wooden or bamboo chopsticks are prone to deformation after prolonged high-temperature washing.

[0048] Therefore, in this embodiment, the tableware recycling and washing system is also equipped with a chopsticks separation device, which separates the chopsticks before the tableware is conveyed to the dishwasher. This prevents the chopsticks from entering the dishwasher, thereby avoiding the problem of chopsticks deforming due to prolonged high-temperature washing.

[0049] In some embodiments, the chopsticks separating device further includes at least one nozzle disposed on the side of the upper conveyor belt. The nozzle is used to spray a water jet onto the conveying surface of the upper conveyor belt so that the chopsticks on the conveying surface move under the impact of the water jet.

[0050] Although the upper conveyor belt has perforations, the chopsticks will only fall through the perforations to the lower conveyor belt if their length direction is roughly aligned with the length direction of the perforations. In this embodiment, the chopsticks separating device also includes multiple nozzles that spray water jets onto the conveying surface of the upper conveyor belt. Under the impact of the water jets, the chopsticks will move irregularly, thereby changing the direction of their length direction. This helps to reduce the probability that the chopsticks will fail to fall through the perforations.

[0051] In some embodiments, the tableware recycling and cleaning system further includes:

[0052] Circulating conveyor;

[0053] A guide baffle is disposed on the second conveyor line and located upstream of the dishwasher, the guide baffle being used to guide the bowl and the plate to the circulating conveyor device;

[0054] A second transfer device is used to transfer the bowl or plate on the circulating conveyor to the dishwasher.

[0055] By setting up a circulating conveyor and guide baffles, bowls and plates can be prevented from piling up at the dishwasher inlet, thus avoiding the risk of damage caused by the piled-up bowls and plates colliding with each other under the drive of the second conveyor line.

[0056] In some embodiments, the guide baffle includes a first sub-plate and a second sub-plate connected to each other, the connection position of the first sub-plate and the sub-plate forming a second pointed structure, the second pointed structure facing the upstream direction of the second conveyor line; the number of the circulating conveying devices is two, the first sub-plate is used to guide the bowl and the plate to one of the circulating conveying devices, and the second sub-plate is used to guide the bowl and the plate to the other circulating conveying device.

[0057] The connection point between the first and second sub-plates forms a second pointed structure. This second pointed structure can divert the bowls and plates conveyed from the second conveyor line, allowing some bowls and plates to be guided by the first sub-plate to one of the circulating conveyor devices, while others are guided by the second sub-plate to another. This arrangement improves the efficiency of transferring bowls and plates from the second conveyor line to the circulating conveyor devices, thereby further preventing the possibility of bowls and plates accumulating.

[0058] In some embodiments, the conveying surface of the first conveyor line at the separation position is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line is lower than the conveying surface of the first conveyor line.

[0059] In this way, when the tray reaches the separation position, it tilts, causing the tableware on the tray to slide down the tray under the influence of gravity and further detach from the tray, landing on the conveyor surface of the second conveyor line. Compared to transferring tableware to the second conveyor line via a transfer device, the structure used in this embodiment is simpler, and the cost is relatively lower because the transfer device is eliminated.

[0060] In some embodiments, the tableware recycling and cleaning system further includes a tray cleaning device disposed on the first conveyor line and downstream of the separation position, the tray cleaning device being used to receive and clean the tray.

[0061] This allows the pallets to be cleaned as well, eliminating the need for workers to manually clean them.

[0062] In some embodiments, the tableware recycling and cleaning system further includes:

[0063] A disinfection device is installed at the end of the first conveyor line, and the disinfection device is configured to receive the tray and disinfect the tray.

[0064] The third conveyor line is connected to the disinfection equipment and is used to receive the carrier frame from the disinfection equipment.

[0065] The fourth conveyor line is connected to the disinfection equipment;

[0066] A connecting assembly for transferring the carrier frame from the third conveyor line to the fourth conveyor line;

[0067] The third transfer device is used to transfer the sorted bowls and plates to the carrier frame. The fourth conveyor line is used to transport the carrier frame loaded with the bowls and plates to the disinfection equipment. The disinfection equipment is also configured to receive the carrier frame loaded with the bowls and plates and disinfect the bowls and plates.

[0068] The third conveyor line transports empty carrying frames to the location of sorted bowls and plates. A connecting assembly transfers the carrying frames from the third conveyor line to the fourth conveyor line, which then transports the carrying frames loaded with bowls and plates to the sterilization equipment. This arrangement ensures that the bowls and plates remain sorted and neatly arranged upon arrival at the sterilization chamber, allowing them to be used directly after sterilization without the need for re-sorting and rearranging. Attached Figure Description

[0069] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a tableware recycling and cleaning system provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Enlarged schematic diagram of part B;

[0071] Figure 3 for Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of section E in the middle;

[0072] Figure 4 for Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of section D in the middle;

[0073] Figure 5 This is a structural block diagram of a cup separation device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 6 for Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of part A in the middle;

[0075] Figure 7 This is a structural block diagram of a spoon separation device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the chopsticks separation device provided in one embodiment of this application;

[0077] Figure 9 for Figure 1 An enlarged schematic diagram of section C;

[0078] Figure 10 This is a partial structural diagram of a tableware recycling and cleaning system provided in another embodiment of this application.

[0079] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0080] 1. Dishware recycling and cleaning system; 2. Tray; 3. Dishware; 301. Bowl; 302. Plate; 303. Cup; 4. Carrying frame;

[0081] 10. First conveyor line; 11. Separation position;

[0082] 20. Second conveyor line;

[0083] 30. Dishwasher;

[0084] 40. Sorting mechanism;

[0085] 41. Retaining wall; 411. First section; 412. Second section; 413. First pointed structure; 42. Collection box; 43. First transfer device;

[0086] 50. Cup separating device;

[0087] 51. First image acquisition unit; 52. First robotic arm; 53. Cup receiving box; 54. First controller;

[0088] 60. Paper towel separator;

[0089] 61. Tissue box; 62. Air duct;

[0090] 70. Spoon separation device;

[0091] 71. Second image acquisition unit; 72. Second robotic arm; 73. Spoon storage box; 74. Second controller;

[0092] 80. Chopsticks separation device;

[0093] 81. Upper conveyor belt; 82. Lower conveyor belt; 83. Chopsticks storage box; 84. Sprayer head;

[0094] 91. Circulating conveying device; 92. Guide baffle; 921. First sub-plate; 922. Second sub-plate; 933. Second pointed corner structure; 93. Second transfer device;

[0095] 100. Pallet cleaning device;

[0096] 110. Disinfection equipment;

[0097] 120. The third conveyor line;

[0098] 130. Fourth conveyor line;

[0099] 140. Connecting components;

[0100] 150. Third transfer device. Detailed Implementation

[0101] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0102] In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the accompanying drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this patent. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0103] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as implying or suggesting relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0104] In the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0105] Currently, some canteens have equipped themselves with automated recycling and cleaning systems to improve the efficiency of tableware collection and cleaning. After finishing their meals, diners simply place their trays and tableware on a conveyor belt at a designated location. The conveyor belt then collects the trays and tableware, which are then sent to tray cleaning units and dishwashers via different conveyor lines for cleaning.

[0106] Some tableware recycling and cleaning systems still require worker assistance in certain stages of operation. For example, some systems require workers to sort trays and tableware during collection so that they are transferred to different conveyor lines. Similarly, after cleaning, tableware needs to be sorted by category, separating bowls from plates or bowls of different sizes. These worker involvement steps affect the system's efficiency, meaning there is room for improvement in the efficiency of tableware recycling and cleaning systems.

[0107] Based on the above, the applicant proposed the technical solution in this application embodiment. Specifically, a sorting mechanism is set up downstream of the dishwasher. Bowls and plates washed by the dishwasher can be sorted by the sorting mechanism, so that bowls and plates of different sizes are separated from each other. This can replace the process of workers manually sorting bowls and plates after washing. Since the sorting of tableware is also part of the tableware recycling and cleaning work, using a sorting mechanism to replace workers manually sorting tableware can improve the overall work efficiency of tableware recycling and cleaning.

[0108] The above is the core idea of ​​this application. The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0109] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown in the figure, this application proposes a tableware recycling and cleaning system 1, which includes a first conveyor line 10, a second conveyor line 20, a dishwasher 30, and a sorting mechanism 40. The first conveyor line 10 receives and conveys a tray 2 and tableware 3 placed on the tray 2. The tableware 3 includes at least one size of bowl 301 and at least one size of plate 302. The first conveyor line 10 has a separation position 11, which is used to separate the tableware 3 from the tray 2 and allow the tableware 3 to leave the first conveyor line 10. The second conveyor line 20 receives the tableware 3 after it has been separated from the tray 2. The dishwasher 30 is disposed on the second conveyor line 20 and is used to clean the bowls 301 and plates 302. The sorting mechanism 40 is disposed on the second conveyor line 20 and located downstream of the dishwasher 30, and is used to sort the bowls 301 and plates 302 according to their sizes.

[0110] Specifically, the first conveyor line 10 can be a single conveying device or a combination of multiple conveying devices. In practical applications, the choice can be made based on the actual application environment. For example, if the conveying path of the first conveyor line 10 is long and / or has turning sections, multiple conveying devices can be combined to form the first conveyor line 10. This reduces the design and manufacturing difficulty of the first conveyor line 10.

[0111] The second conveyor line 20 can be a single conveying device or a combination of multiple conveying devices. For example, if the conveying path of the second conveyor line 20 is long and / or the conveying path of the second conveyor line 20 has bends, multiple conveying devices can be combined to form the second conveyor line 20.

[0112] The first conveyor line 10 is used to receive and transport the tray 2 and the tableware 3 placed on the tray 2. That is, after finishing their meal, diners can place the tray 2 containing the tableware 3 on the first conveyor line 10 at a designated location. Taking a canteen application scenario as an example, a canteen can include a dining area and a washing area. The dining area is the place for eating, and the washing area is the place for washing the tableware 3. In practical applications, the second conveyor line 20, dishwasher 30, and sorting mechanism 40 can be located in the washing area, with most of the structure of the first conveyor line 10 located in the washing area and a small portion in the dining area. Thus, after finishing their meal, diners can place the tray 2 and tableware 3 on the portion of the first conveyor line 10 located in the dining area, and as the first conveyor line 10 operates, the tray 2 and tableware 3 are transported to the washing area.

[0113] The first conveyor line 10 is provided with a separation position 11, which allows the tableware 3 to be separated from the tray 2. This separation can be achieved by using an external movable device to separate the tableware 3 from the tray 2 and transfer the tableware 3 to the second conveyor line 20 (e.g., using a robotic arm to pick up the tableware 3 and transfer it to the second conveyor line 20), or by the first conveyor line 10 itself through its structural design (without the aid of an external movable device) allowing the tableware 3 to leave the tray 2 and be transferred to the second conveyor line 20.

[0114] Dishwasher 30 is an automated cleaning device capable of cleaning tableware 3 such as bowls 301, plates 302, and cups 303. Understandably, the size of tray 2 is much larger than that of bowls 301, plates 302, etc., exceeding the design size of the items that dishwasher 30 can accommodate. Therefore, in the tableware collection and cleaning system 1, it is necessary to separate the tableware 3 from tray 2 so that the tableware 3 can be transported to dishwasher 30, while tray 2 bypasses dishwasher 30.

[0115] The tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 in this embodiment includes a first conveyor line 10 and a second conveyor line 20. The first conveyor line 10 receives trays 2 and tableware 3 placed by diners and conveys them. At separation position 11, the tableware 3 separates from the tray 2 and is transferred to the second conveyor line 20, moving with it to a dishwasher 30, where it cleans bowls 301 and plates 302. The tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 also includes a sorting mechanism 40, which is located on the second conveyor line 20 and downstream of the dishwasher 30. The sorting mechanism 40 can sort the cleaned bowls 301 and plates 302 according to their specifications, separating bowls 301 and plates 302 of different specifications. This replaces the manual sorting process of bowls 301 and plates 302 by workers. Since the sorting of tableware 3 is also part of the tableware 3 recycling and cleaning work, using the sorting mechanism 40 to replace workers in manually sorting tableware 3 can improve the overall work efficiency of tableware 3 recycling and cleaning.

[0116] like Figure 1 , Figure 3 As shown, in some embodiments, the sorting mechanism 40 includes multiple baffles 41 and multiple collection boxes 42. Each baffle 41 is used to block bowls 301 or plates 302 of one size. The baffle 41 is disposed above the second conveyor line 20. There is a distance between the bottom of the baffle 41 and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line 20 to allow bowls 301 and plates 302 of other sizes to pass through. Each baffle 41 is equipped with at least one collection box 42, which is used to collect bowls 301 or plates 302 that are separated by being blocked by the baffle 41.

[0117] There is a distance between the bottom of the retaining wall 41 and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line 20. It is understood that the distances corresponding to different retaining walls 41 are different. The size of the distance needs to be set so that one type of bowl 301 or plate 302 cannot pass through, while other types of bowl 301 and plate 302 can pass through.

[0118] For example, suppose the cleaned tableware 3 includes two sizes of bowls 301 and two sizes of plates 302, arranged in descending order of height as noodle bowls 301, soup bowls 301, fruit plates 302, and dinner plates 302. Accordingly, four baffles 41 can be installed. The distance between the bottom of the first baffle 41 and the conveyor surface should be greater than the height of the soup bowl 301 but less than the height of the noodle bowl 301. This way, the first baffle 41 can block the noodle bowl 301, while the soup bowl 301, fruit plate 302, and dinner plate 302 can pass smoothly under the first baffle 41. Thus, the noodle bowl 301 is sorted out and can be stored in the corresponding collection box 42. Similarly, the distance between the bottom of the second baffle 41 and the conveyor surface should be greater than the height of the fruit plate 302 but less than the height of the soup bowl 301. This way, the second baffle 41 can block the soup bowl 301, while the fruit plate 302 and dinner plate 302 can pass smoothly underneath the second baffle 41, thus allowing the soup bowl 301 to be sorted out. Similarly, the fruit plate 302 and dinner plate 302 can also be sorted out sequentially by the third baffle 41 and the fourth baffle 41.

[0119] By setting up multiple barriers 41 and collection boxes 42 that work in conjunction with the barriers 41, bowls 301 of different sizes and plates 302 of different sizes can be sorted out and stored separately.

[0120] Understandably, although robotic arms combined with visual recognition technology can sort the washed tableware 3, the sorting efficiency is limited by the number of robotic arms. In other words, to improve sorting efficiency, more robotic arms are needed, leading to increased costs. In contrast, this embodiment uses multiple baffles 41. By matching the distance between each baffle 41 and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line 20, bowls 301 of different sizes and plates 302 of different sizes can be sorted. This method has a simple structure, relatively low cost, and relatively high sorting efficiency, making it a sorting solution with advantages in both cost and efficiency.

[0121] like Figure 3 As shown, in one embodiment, the sorting mechanism 40 further includes a plurality of first transfer devices 43, with each collection box 42 and the retaining wall 41 having a first transfer device 43. The first transfer device 43 is used to transfer the separated bowls 301 or plates 302 from the second conveyor line 20 to the collection box 42.

[0122] For example, the first transfer device 43 may be a robotic arm incorporating visual recognition technology, or a conveyor turntable incorporating sensing technology. Since robotic arms incorporating visual recognition technology and conveyor turntables incorporating sensing technology are both existing products, they will not be described in detail.

[0123] The bowls 301 or plates 302 separated by the blocking effect of the barrier wall 41 are further transferred to the corresponding collection box 42 by the first transfer device 43. In this way, the bowls 301 or plates 302 are transferred in a more stable manner, thereby reducing the probability of damage to the bowls 301 or plates 302 due to bumps or drops.

[0124] like Figure 3 As shown, in one embodiment, the retaining wall 41 includes a first section 411 and a second section 412 connected to each other. A first pointed structure 413 is formed at the connection position of the first section 411 and the second section 412. The first pointed structure 413 faces the upstream direction of the second conveyor line 20. The first section 411 and the second section 412 are each equipped with a collection box 42.

[0125] It is understandable that when the first section 411 and the second section 412 are each equipped with a collection box 42, a first transfer device 43 is provided between the first section 411 and the corresponding collection box 42, and a first transfer device 43 is also provided between the second section 412 and the corresponding collection box 42.

[0126] A first pointed structure 413 is formed at the connection point of the first section 411 and the second section 412. The first pointed structure 413 can divert the bowls 301 or plates 302 that are separated due to being blocked by the baffle 41. This allows some bowls 301 or plates 302 to be guided by the first section 411 to a collection box 42 and a corresponding first transfer device 43, while other bowls 301 or plates 302 are guided by the second section 412 to another collection box 42 and a corresponding first transfer device 43. In this way, the separated bowls 301 or plates 302 can be transferred simultaneously by two first transfer devices 43, thereby improving sorting efficiency. In addition, it also helps to prevent the separated bowls 301 or plates 302 from being unable to be transferred in time and piling up, which would lead to low throughput for other sizes of bowls 301 and plates 302.

[0127] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 as well as Figure 5As shown, in some embodiments, the tableware 3 also includes a cup 303, and the dishwasher 30 is also used to clean the cup 303. The tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 also includes a cup separation device 50, which is disposed on the second conveyor line 20 and located upstream of the sorting mechanism 40. The cup separation device 50 includes a first image acquisition unit 51, a first robotic arm 52, a cup receiving box 53, and a first controller 54. The first image acquisition unit 51 is used to acquire images of the tableware 3. The first image acquisition unit 51 and the first robotic arm 52 are both electrically connected to the first controller 54. The first controller 54 is configured to determine whether there is a cup 303 based on the image, and to control the first robotic arm 52 to transfer the cup 303 to the cup receiving box 53 when the presence of a cup 303 is detected.

[0128] Because the cups 303 are relatively tall, it is difficult to ensure that they remain upright after being washed by the dishwasher 30. Therefore, it is difficult to sort the cups 303 by setting up the baffle 41. Thus, the cups 303 are sorted separately before passing through the sorting mechanism 40. This can prevent the spilled cups 303 from being mixed into the sorted bowls 301.

[0129] The sorting of cups 303 can be achieved through a combination of a robotic arm and visual recognition technology. Specifically, the first image acquisition unit 51 can be a camera, used to acquire images of the tableware 3 at corresponding positions on the second conveyor line 20 and transmit the image information to the first controller 54. The first controller 54 can use a feature recognition algorithm to determine whether a cup 303 is present in the image. If the determination result is that a cup 303 is present, it controls the first robotic arm 52 to grasp the cup 303 and transfer it to the cup receiving box 53. In this way, the individual sorting of cups 303 can be achieved.

[0130] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 further includes a paper towel separation device 60, which is disposed on the first conveyor line 10 and located upstream of the separation position 11. The paper towel separation device 60 is used to separate the paper towels in the tray 2.

[0131] After finishing their meal, diners typically use tissues to wipe their mouths or hands, and some leave the used tissues on the tray 2. To address this, the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 in this embodiment is also equipped with a tissue separation device 60. This device separates the tissues from the tray 2, preventing them from entering the dishwasher 30 along with the tableware 3. This helps avoid the risk of the tissues swelling upon contact with water in the dishwasher 30 and causing blockages in the water channels.

[0132] like Figure 1As shown, in one embodiment, the tissue separation device 60 includes a tissue receiving box 61, an air duct 62, and a fan (not shown in the figure). The air duct 62 is connected to the tissue receiving box 61, and the end of the air duct 62 away from the tissue receiving box 61 faces the conveying surface of the first conveying line 10. The fan is disposed inside the tissue receiving box 61 and is used to create a negative pressure inside the air duct 62 so that the tissue is drawn into the tissue receiving box 61 through the air duct 62.

[0133] With this setup, the paper towels can be separated by the suction of the fan, and the separated paper towels can be collected together by the paper towel collection box 61 for subsequent centralized processing (e.g., centralized disposal into the trash can).

[0134] like Figure 1 , Figure 6 as well as Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments, the tableware 3 also includes a spoon (not shown in the figure), and the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 also includes a spoon separation device 70, which is disposed on the first conveyor line 10 and located upstream of the separation position 11.

[0135] Typically, the spoons provided in cafeterias are metal spoons, which are less prone to damage than porcelain spoons. However, dishwashers are usually used with specific detergents, and prolonged use with these detergents may cause metal spoons to discolor or lose their luster.

[0136] Therefore, in this embodiment, the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 is also equipped with a spoon separation device 70. Before the tableware 3 is conveyed to the separation position 11 of the first conveyor line 10, the spoons are sorted out by the spoon separation device 70. In this way, the spoons will not be transferred to the second conveyor line 20, nor will they enter the dishwasher 30, thereby avoiding problems such as discoloration and loss of luster caused by long-term washing with detergent.

[0137] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, in one embodiment, the spoon separation device 70 includes a second image acquisition unit 71, a second robotic arm 72, a spoon receiving box 73, and a second controller 74. The second image acquisition unit 71 is used to acquire images of the tableware 3. The second image acquisition unit 71 and the second robotic arm 72 are both electrically connected to the second controller 74. The second controller 74 is configured to determine whether there is a spoon based on the image, and to control the second robotic arm 72 to transfer the spoon to the spoon receiving box 73 if a spoon is identified.

[0138] In other words, the sorting of spoons can be achieved through a combination of a robotic arm and visual recognition technology. Specifically, the second image acquisition unit 71 can be a camera, which is used to acquire images of the tableware 3 at corresponding positions on the second conveyor line 20 and transmit the image information to the second controller 74. The second controller 74 can determine whether there is a spoon in the image using a feature recognition algorithm. If the determination result is that there is a spoon, it controls the second robotic arm 72 to grab the spoon and transfer it to the spoon receiving box 73. Thus, the spoon can be sorted out from the tableware 3.

[0139] Please refer to Figure 6 In another embodiment, the spoon separation device 70 may include a second robotic arm 72, a spoon receiving box 73, and an electromagnet (not shown) disposed on the second robotic arm 72. Thus, driven by the second robotic arm 72, the electromagnet can approach the tableware 3 and use electromagnetic force to attract the metal spoon to the electromagnet, thereby transferring the spoon to the spoon receiving box 73.

[0140] It is understandable that when the spoons contain elements such as iron, nickel, and cobalt, the method described in this embodiment can be used to sort the spoons.

[0141] It is also understandable that the spoons sorted out by the spoon separation device can be manually cleaned by workers or transported to a dedicated cleaning device for cleaning spoons via another conveyor.

[0142] like Figure 1 , Figure 8 As shown, in some embodiments, the tableware 3 also includes chopsticks (not shown in the figure), and the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 also includes a chopsticks separation device 80, which is disposed on the second conveyor line 20 and located upstream of the dishwasher 30.

[0143] Typically, the chopsticks provided in cafeterias are made of wood or bamboo. However, dishwashers typically heat the washing water to achieve better cleaning results, turning it into high-temperature water. Wooden or bamboo chopsticks are prone to deformation after prolonged high-temperature washing.

[0144] Therefore, in this embodiment, the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 is also equipped with a chopsticks separation device 80. Before the tableware 3 is conveyed to the dishwasher 30, the chopsticks are separated by the chopsticks separation device 80. In this way, the chopsticks will not enter the dishwasher 30, thereby avoiding the problem of chopsticks deforming due to long-term high-temperature washing.

[0145] like Figure 8As shown, in one embodiment, the chopsticks separating device 80 includes an upper conveyor belt 81, a lower conveyor belt 82, and a chopsticks receiving box 83. The upper conveyor belt 81 receives and transports the bowl 301, plate 302, and chopsticks. The upper conveyor belt 81 has a perforated portion (not shown in the figure), the length of which is greater than the length of the chopsticks, and the width of which is greater than the width of the chopsticks but less than the diameter of the bowl 301 and plate 302. The lower conveyor belt 82 is located below the upper conveyor belt 81 and receives the chopsticks falling through the perforated portion. The chopsticks receiving box 83 is located at one end of the lower conveyor belt 82, and the lower conveyor belt 82 transports the chopsticks to the chopsticks receiving box 83.

[0146] It should be noted that when the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 is also equipped with a chopsticks separation device 80, the second conveyor line 20 is composed of multiple conveyor devices spliced ​​together. Among them, at least one conveyor device is located upstream of the chopsticks separation device 80 and is connected to the upper conveyor belt 81, and at least one conveyor device is located downstream of the chopsticks separation device 80 and is connected to the upper conveyor belt 81.

[0147] Because the upper conveyor belt 81 has a perforated section, the length of which is greater than the length of the chopsticks, and the width of which is greater than the width of the chopsticks (where the width of the chopsticks refers to their dimension along a direction perpendicular to their length), this design allows the chopsticks to fall through the perforated section onto the lower conveyor belt 82. Simultaneously, because the width of the perforated section is less than the diameter of the bowl 301 and the dish 302, the bowl 301 and the dish 302 will not fall onto the lower conveyor belt 82. This allows the chopsticks to be separated from the bowl 301 and the dish 302, and the separated chopsticks are ultimately conveyed through the lower conveyor belt 82 to the chopsticks storage box 83.

[0148] like Figure 8 As shown, in one embodiment, the chopsticks separating device 80 further includes at least one nozzle 84, which is disposed on the side of the upper conveyor belt 81. The nozzle 84 is used to spray water jets onto the conveying surface of the upper conveyor belt 81 so that the chopsticks on the conveying surface move under the impact of the water jets.

[0149] Although the upper conveyor belt 81 has a perforated section, the chopsticks will only fall through the perforation to the lower conveyor belt 82 when their length direction is roughly aligned with the length direction of the perforation. In this embodiment, the chopsticks separating device 80 also includes multiple nozzles 84. The nozzles 84 spray water jets onto the conveying surface of the upper conveyor belt 81. Under the impact of the water jets, the chopsticks will move irregularly, thereby changing the direction of their length direction. This helps to reduce the probability that the chopsticks will fail to fall through the perforation.

[0150] Furthermore, the number of chopsticks separation devices 80 can be multiple, which helps to further reduce the probability that the chopsticks cannot be separated.

[0151] Understandably, the chopsticks sorted out by the chopstick separation device can be manually washed by workers or transported to a dedicated chopstick washing device via another conveyor.

[0152] like Figure 1 , Figure 9 As shown, in some embodiments, the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 further includes a circulating conveyor 91, a guide baffle 92, and a second transfer device 93. The guide baffle 92 is disposed on the second conveyor line 20 and located upstream of the dishwasher 30. The guide baffle 92 is used to guide the bowls 301 and plates 302 to the circulating conveyor 91, and the second transfer device 93 is used to transfer the bowls 301 or plates 302 on the circulating conveyor 91 to the dishwasher 30.

[0153] For example, the second transfer device 93 may be a robotic arm incorporating visual recognition technology, or a conveyor turntable incorporating sensing technology.

[0154] When the dishwasher 30 washes the received bowls 301 and plates 302, the washing process needs to last for a certain period of time. During the washing program, it cannot continue to receive bowls 301 and plates 302. To prevent bowls 301 and plates 302 from accumulating at the inlet of the dishwasher 30, the dish collection and washing system 1 is also equipped with a circulation conveyor 91. Simultaneously, a guide baffle 92 is provided upstream of the dishwasher 300. The guide baffle 92 guides the bowls 301 and plates 302 conveyed by the second conveyor line 20 to the circulation conveyor 91, allowing them to circulate on the circulation conveyor 91. When the dishwasher 30 finishes the previous washing program and is able to receive bowls 301 and plates 302 again, a second transfer device 93 transfers an appropriate amount of bowls 301 and plates 302 from the circulation conveyor 91 to the dishwasher 30 for washing. During the washing process, the bowls 301 and plates 302 conveyed by the second conveyor line 20 are continued to be guided to the circulating conveyor 91, circulating with the circulating conveyor 91 while waiting for the dishwasher 30 to receive them again.

[0155] Therefore, by setting up the circulating conveyor 91 and the guide baffle 92, the bowls 301 and plates 302 can be prevented from accumulating at the inlet of the dishwasher 30, thereby avoiding the risk of damage caused by the bowls 301 and plates 302 colliding with each other under the drive of the second conveyor line 20.

[0156] like Figure 9As shown, in one embodiment, the guide baffle 92 includes a first sub-plate 921 and a second sub-plate 922 connected to each other. The connection position of the first sub-plate 921 and the sub-plate forms a second pointed structure 933, which faces upstream of the second conveyor line 20. There are two circulating conveying devices 91. The first sub-plate 921 guides the bowl 301 and the dish 302 to one of the circulating conveying devices 91, and the second sub-plate 922 guides the bowl 301 and the dish 302 to the other circulating conveying device 91.

[0157] When there are two circulating conveying devices 91, there are at least two second transfer devices 93, that is, each circulating conveying device 91 is equipped with at least one second transfer device 93.

[0158] A second pointed structure 933 is formed at the connection position of the first sub-plate 921 and the second sub-plate 922. The second pointed structure 933 can divert the bowls 301 and plates 302 conveyed from the second conveyor line 20, so that a portion of the bowls 301 and plates 302 are guided by the first sub-plate 921 to one of the circulating conveyor devices 91, and another portion of the bowls 301 and plates 302 are guided by the second sub-plate 922 to another circulating conveyor device 91. This arrangement can improve the efficiency of transferring the bowls 301 and plates 302 from the second conveyor line 20 to the circulating conveyor device 91, thereby further avoiding the possibility of the bowls 301 and plates 302 accumulating.

[0159] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the conveying surface of the first conveyor line 10 at the separation position 11 is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line 20 is lower than the conveying surface of the first conveyor line 10.

[0160] In this way, when the tray 2 reaches the separation position 11, it will tilt, causing the tableware 3 on the tray 2 to slide down the tray 2 under the action of gravity, and further detach from the tray 2, falling onto the conveying surface of the second conveyor line 20. Compared with the method of transferring the tableware 3 to the second conveyor line 20 by a transfer device (such as a robotic arm), the structure used in this embodiment is simpler, and the cost is relatively lower because the transfer device is eliminated.

[0161] like Figure 1 As shown, in some embodiments, the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 further includes a tray cleaning device 100, which is disposed on the first conveyor line 10 and downstream of the separation position 11. The tray cleaning device 100 is used to receive and clean the tray 2. In this way, the tray 2 can also be cleaned without the need for manual cleaning by workers.

[0162] like Figure 1 , Figure 10 As shown, in one embodiment, the tableware recycling and cleaning system 1 further includes a disinfection device 110, a third conveyor line 120, a fourth conveyor line 130, a connecting assembly 140, and a third transfer device 150. The disinfection device 110 is located at the end of the first conveyor line 10 and is configured to receive the tray 2 and disinfect it. The third conveyor line 120 is connected to the disinfection device 110 and is used to receive the carrier frame 4 from the disinfection device 110. The fourth conveyor line 130 is connected to the disinfection device 110, and the connecting assembly 140 is used to transfer the carrier frame 4 from the third conveyor line 120 to the fourth conveyor line 130. The third transfer device 150 is used to transfer the sorted bowls 301 and plates 302 to the carrier frame 4, and the fourth conveyor line 130 is used to convey the carrier frame 4 loaded with bowls 301 and plates 302 to the disinfection equipment 110. The disinfection equipment 110 is also configured to receive the carrier frame 4 loaded with bowls 301 and plates 302 and disinfect the bowls 301 and plates 302.

[0163] For example, the disinfection equipment 110 may be a disinfection chamber or a disinfection cabinet, etc.

[0164] The third conveyor line 120 transports the empty carrying frame 4 to the location of the sorted bowls 301 and plates 302. The connecting assembly 140 transfers the carrying frame 4 from the third conveyor line 120 to the fourth conveyor line 130, which then transports the carrying frame 4 containing the bowls 301 and plates 302 to the sterilization equipment 110. This arrangement ensures that the bowls 301 and plates 302 remain sorted and neatly arranged upon arrival at the sterilization chamber, allowing them to be used directly after sterilization without the need for re-sorting and rearranging.

[0165] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A tableware recycling and cleaning system, characterized in that, include: A first conveyor line is used to receive and convey a tray and tableware placed on the tray. The tableware includes at least one type of bowl and at least one type of plate. The first conveyor line is provided with a separation position for separating the tableware from the tray and allowing the tableware to leave the first conveyor line. The second conveyor line is used to receive the tableware after it has been separated from the tray; A dishwasher is provided on the second conveyor line for washing the bowls and the plates; as well as A sorting mechanism is provided on the second conveyor line and located downstream of the dishwasher. The sorting mechanism is used to sort the bowls and plates according to their specifications.

2. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sorting mechanism includes: Multiple baffles, each designed to block bowls or plates of one size, are positioned above the second conveyor line. A distance exists between the bottom of each baffle and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line to allow bowls and plates of other sizes to pass through. Multiple collection boxes, each of the retaining walls is equipped with at least one of the collection boxes, the collection boxes being used to collect bowls or plates that have been separated by the retaining walls.

3. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The sorting mechanism also includes multiple first transfer devices. Each collection box and the retaining wall are provided with a first transfer device. The first transfer device is used to transfer the separated bowls or plates from the second conveyor line to the collection box.

4. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The retaining wall includes a first section and a second section that are connected to each other. A first pointed structure is formed at the connection position between the first section and the second section. The first pointed structure faces the upstream direction of the second conveyor line. The first section and the second section are each equipped with a collection box.

5. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tableware also includes cups, and the dishwasher is also used to clean the cups; The tableware recycling and cleaning system also includes a cup separation device, which is disposed on the second conveyor line and located upstream of the sorting mechanism; The cup separation device includes: The first image acquisition unit is used to acquire images of tableware; First robotic arm; Cup storage box; and The first controller, the first image acquisition unit, and the first robotic arm are all electrically connected to the first controller. The first controller is configured to determine whether there is a cup based on the image, and to control the first robotic arm to transfer the cup to the cup storage box if a cup is determined to be present.

6. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a tissue separation device, which is disposed on the first conveyor line and located upstream of the separation position, and is used to separate the tissues from the tray.

7. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The tissue paper separating device includes: tissue box; An air duct, connected to the tissue box, has one end of the air duct away from the tissue box facing the conveying surface of the first conveyor line; and A fan is installed inside the tissue box. The fan is used to create negative pressure in the air duct so that the tissues are drawn into the tissue box through the air duct.

8. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tableware also includes spoons, and the tableware recycling and cleaning system also includes a spoon separation device, which is disposed on the first conveyor line and located upstream of the separation position; The spoon separation device includes: The second image acquisition unit is used to acquire images of the tableware; Second robotic arm; Spoon storage box; and The second controller, the second image acquisition unit, and the second robotic arm are all electrically connected to the second controller. The second controller is configured to determine whether there is a spoon based on the image, and to control the second robotic arm to transfer the spoon to the spoon receiving box if a spoon is determined to be present.

9. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The tableware also includes chopsticks, and the tableware recycling and cleaning system also includes a chopsticks separation device, which is disposed on the second conveyor line and located upstream of the dishwasher; The chopsticks separation device includes: An upper conveyor belt is used to receive and transport the bowl, the plate, and the chopsticks. The upper conveyor belt is provided with a hollow section. The length of the hollow section is greater than the length of the chopsticks, and the width of the hollow section is greater than the width of the chopsticks and smaller than the diameter of the bowl and the plate. A lower conveyor belt, located below the upper conveyor belt, is used to receive chopsticks falling through the hollow section; A chopsticks storage box is located at one end of the lower conveyor belt, which is used to transport the chopsticks to the chopsticks storage box.

10. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The chopsticks separation device further includes at least one nozzle, which is disposed on the side of the upper conveyor belt. The nozzle is used to spray water jets onto the conveying surface of the upper conveyor belt so that the chopsticks on the conveying surface move under the impact of the water jets.

11. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, Also includes: Circulating conveyor; A guide baffle is disposed on the second conveyor line and located upstream of the dishwasher, the guide baffle being used to guide the bowl and the plate to the circulating conveyor device; A second transfer device is used to transfer the bowl or plate on the circulating conveyor to the dishwasher.

12. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 11, characterized in that, The guide baffle includes a first sub-plate and a second sub-plate connected to each other. The connection position of the first sub-plate and the sub-plate forms a second sharp corner structure, and the second sharp corner structure faces the upstream direction of the second conveyor line. The number of circulating conveying devices is two, with the first sub-plate used to guide the bowl and the plate to one of the circulating conveying devices, and the second sub-plate used to guide the bowl and the plate to the other circulating conveying device.

13. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The conveying surface of the first conveyor line at the separation position is inclined relative to the horizontal plane, and the conveying surface of the second conveyor line is lower than the conveying surface of the first conveyor line.

14. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, It also includes a pallet cleaning device, which is disposed on the first conveyor line and located downstream of the separation position, and is used to receive and clean the pallets.

15. The tableware recycling and cleaning system according to claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: A disinfection device is installed at the end of the first conveyor line, and the disinfection device is configured to receive the tray and disinfect the tray. The third conveyor line is connected to the disinfection equipment and is used to receive the carrier frame from the disinfection equipment. The fourth conveyor line is connected to the disinfection equipment; A connecting assembly for transferring the carrier frame from the third conveyor line to the fourth conveyor line; The third transfer device is used to transfer the sorted bowls and plates to the carrier frame. The fourth conveyor line is used to transport the carrier frame loaded with the bowls and plates to the disinfection equipment. The disinfection equipment is also configured to receive the carrier frame loaded with the bowls and plates and disinfect the bowls and plates.

Images