Packaging device for vending machine and vending machine

Abstract

The utility model discloses a packing device for a vending machine and the vending machine, and the packing device comprises a packing mechanism which comprises a first rack, a lifting main body and a stock bin; the first rack extends in the first direction. The lifting body is in sliding connection with the first rack so that the lifting body can move in the first direction. A grabbing part is arranged on the lifting main body, and the grabbing part is configured to be capable of grabbing or releasing a packaging bag; the stock bin is used for placing a plurality of folded packaging bags; the stock bin is located at the bottom of the first rack. The conveying mechanism and the packaging mechanism are arranged in parallel and interactively, the conveying mechanism comprises an output platform, and the output platform is configured to be capable of moving to a first position or a second position in the second direction so as to receive the packaging bag to package the to-be-packaged article at the first position; wherein the first position is arranged between the stock bin and the lifting main body; the second position is close to the outlet and far away from the stock bin; the outlet is used for outputting the packaged articles; the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of vending machines, and in particular to a packaging device for vending machines and a vending machine. Background Technology

[0002] In today's fast-paced modern life, especially in large cities, physical food stores suffer from drawbacks such as low efficiency, long distances, and slow service. Food vending machines address this issue by quickly dispensing food to customers on demand. However, existing food vending machines and fast-food restaurants generally suffer from inefficiencies in food packaging and delivery, risks of food contamination, and long customer wait times. Especially during peak hours, manual packaging and delivery struggle to meet the demands of rapid consumption and can lead to inconsistent packaging, ultimately damaging brand image. Utility Model Content

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a packaging device and a vending machine for use in vending machines.

[0004] The first aspect of this utility model provides a packaging device for a vending machine, comprising: a packaging mechanism, which includes: a first frame, a lifting body, and a hopper; the first frame is configured to extend along a first direction; the lifting body is slidably connected to the first frame to allow the lifting body to move along the first direction; the lifting body is provided with a gripping part configured to grip or release packaging bags; the hopper is used to hold multiple folded packaging bags; the hopper is located at the bottom of the first frame; a conveying mechanism is arranged parallel to and interactively with the packaging mechanism, the conveying mechanism including an output platform configured to move along a second direction to a first position or a second position, so as to receive packaging bags and package items when located at the first position; wherein, the first position is located between the hopper and the lifting body; the second position is located near the outlet and away from the hopper; the outlet is used to output packaged items; the first direction and the second direction are substantially perpendicular.

[0005] Furthermore, the packaging device also includes: a first guide rail mounted on the first frame, the first guide rail being configured to extend along a first direction; a lifting body slidably connected to the first guide rail; and a first transmission assembly mounted on the first frame for driving the lifting body to move relative to the first frame along the first direction.

[0006] Furthermore, the gripping part includes: a suction cup frame connected to the bottom end of the lifting body, the suction cup frame being provided with a plurality of negative pressure suction cups; the suction cups being located on the side facing the hopper; the suction cup frame being configured to move relative to the lifting body along a first direction so that the suction cups contact and adsorb the packaging bag in the hopper.

[0007] Furthermore, the packaging device further includes a guide assembly, which includes a guide shaft, a spring, and a guide sleeve; the guide sleeve is disposed on the lifting body, one end of the guide shaft is connected and fixed to the suction cup frame, the spring is sleeved on the guide shaft, and the other end of the guide shaft extends out of the guide sleeve, the guide shaft and the guide sleeve are slidably connected; wherein, the spring is located between the suction cup frame and the lifting body.

[0008] Furthermore, the packaging device further includes: a detection mechanism, which includes a sensor and a fixing plate; the sensor is mounted on the lifting body and is located on the side of the lifting body away from the suction cup frame; the other end of the guide shaft extends through the guide sleeve and is connected and fixed to the fixing plate; wherein, when the suction cup contacts the packaging bag in the hopper, the spring is compressed, the fixing plate rises relative to the lifting body and senses the sensor.

[0009] Furthermore, the conveying mechanism further includes: a second frame extending along a second direction; a second guide rail mounted on the second frame, the second guide rail extending along the second direction; the second guide rail being slidably connected to the output platform; and a second transmission assembly mounted on the second frame for driving the output platform to move relative to the second frame along the second direction.

[0010] Furthermore, the output platform is designed with an L-shaped structure, and the output platform includes a vertical plate and a horizontal plate fixedly connected to the bottom of the vertical plate; wherein, the vertical plate is provided with a second slider, the second slider being slidably connected to the second guide rail; the horizontal plate is provided with a recessed area, the recessed area being adapted to the item to be packaged, and the recessed area having protruding ridges on both sides.

[0011] Furthermore, the hopper is fixedly connected to the bottom of the first frame.

[0012] Furthermore, the suction cup holder is configured as an X-shaped structure, and the suction cup holder includes a first bracket and a second bracket, with the suction cups respectively installed at the ends of the first bracket and the second bracket.

[0013] Furthermore, the packaging device also includes: a vacuum system, which provides negative pressure for the suction cup to suck up the packaging bag and positive pressure for the suction cup to place the packaging bag; the vacuum system includes a vacuum pump, a first solenoid valve, and a second solenoid valve, the air inlet of the vacuum pump, the first solenoid valve, and the suction cup are connected in sequence through pipes to extract air from the suction cup and create a negative pressure environment for the suction cup; the exhaust port of the vacuum pump, the second solenoid valve, and the suction cup are connected in sequence through pipes to release positive pressure air to the suction cup; wherein, the first solenoid valve, the second solenoid valve, and the suction cup are connected by a three-way valve; both the first solenoid valve and the second solenoid valve are configured as two-position three-way solenoid valves.

[0014] A second aspect of this invention provides a vending machine, including the aforementioned packaging device.

[0015] The above-mentioned technical solution of this utility model has the following beneficial technical effects:

[0016] In this embodiment of the invention, during the process of the output platform moving to the food dispensing position near the exit, the lifting body simultaneously completes the process of grabbing the packaging bag. During the process of the output platform moving back to the initial packaging position to wait for the food box, the lifting body simultaneously completes the process of placing the packaging bag. After the food box is placed on the packaging bag on the output platform, the output platform then proceeds with the food dispensing process. This cycle repeats continuously, realizing a fully automated process from food preparation to delivery, improving operational efficiency, ensuring food hygiene and safety, and avoiding long waiting times for users. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a structural schematic diagram of a packaging device for a vending machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of a packaging device for a vending machine according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of the packaging mechanism according to the third embodiment of the present utility model;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the conveying mechanism according to the fourth embodiment of the present utility model;

[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the vacuum system according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 6 This is a structural schematic diagram of a vending machine according to the sixth embodiment of the present utility model;

[0023] Figure 7 This is a structural schematic diagram of a vending machine according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] Figure label:

[0025] 100. Heating cabinet; 200. Freezer; 101. Second door; 102. Exit; 103. Tableware outlet; 104. Fourth opening; 130. Heating chamber; 140. First transport crane; 150. Temporary storage mechanism; 160. Transfer mechanism; 170. Tableware outlet mechanism;

[0026] 110. Packaging mechanism; 111. First frame; 112. Lifting body; 113. Hopper; 114. First guide rail; 115. First transmission assembly; 116. Suction cup frame; 117. Guide assembly; 1161. Suction cup; 1181. Vacuum pump; 1182. First solenoid valve; 1183. Second solenoid valve; 11811. Air inlet; 11812. Exhaust port; 1184. Filter;

[0027] 120. Conveying mechanism; 121. Output platform; 122. Second frame; 123. Second guide rail; 124. Second transmission assembly; 1211. Vertical plate; 1212. Horizontal plate; 1213. Recessed area; 1214. Protruding ridge;

[0028] 210. Shelf assembly; 220. First door; 221. Condiment dispensing port; 230. Second overhead crane; 251. Fourth door; 252. Receiving hopper; 270. Condiment conveyor; 60. Lunch box. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these descriptions are merely exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of this utility model. Furthermore, descriptions of well-known structures and technologies are omitted in the following description to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the concept of this utility model. In this document, terms such as first, second, and third are used only to distinguish one entity from another and are not intended to require or imply any order or association between these entities.

[0030] The first aspect of this utility model provides a packaging device for a vending machine, such as... Figures 1-4As shown, the system includes a packaging mechanism 110 and a conveying mechanism 120. The packaging mechanism 110 includes: a first frame 111, a lifting body 112, and a hopper 113; the first frame 111 extends along a first direction; the lifting body 112 is slidably connected to the first frame 111, allowing the lifting body 112 to move along the first direction; the lifting body 112 is provided with a gripping part configured to grip or release packaging bags; the hopper 113 is used to hold multiple folded packaging bags; the hopper 113 is located at the bottom of the first frame 111; the conveying mechanism 120 is parallel to and interactively arranged with the packaging mechanism, the conveying mechanism including an output platform 121 configured to move along a second direction to a first position or a second position; wherein, the first position is located between the hopper 113 and the lifting body 112; the first... The second position is set to be located near the outlet and far from the hopper 113; when the output platform 121 moves to the second position along the second direction, the lifting body 112 moves closer to the hopper 113 along the first direction and grabs the packaging bag; when the lifting body 112, which has grabbed the packaging bag, moves away from the hopper 113 along the first direction, the output platform 121 moves to the first position along the second direction, the lifting body 112 moves closer to the output platform 121 along the first direction and releases the packaging bag onto the output platform 121; the item to be packaged is placed on the packaging bag on the output platform 121, and the output platform 121 moves to the second position along the second direction to output the packaged item at the outlet; the first direction and the second direction are approximately perpendicular.

[0031] In this embodiment of the utility model, the first direction is, for example, vertical, and the second direction is, for example, horizontal. The packaging bag can be made of non-woven fabric, or coated with a waterproof material, or made of biodegradable plastic material, or made into a mesh bag; there are no strict limitations here. The hopper 113 may be provided with a receiving cavity, the top of which may be open, for placing multiple folded packaging bags (not shown in the figure); each folded packaging bag is laid flat, and multiple folded packaging bags can be stacked in the hopper 113 from bottom to top; the packaged items output at the outlet refer to the items to be packaged placed on the packaging bags on the output platform 121, and the user can take the items after picking up the packaging bags; the items may be, for example, pre-cooked food containers, or other salable goods. The gripping part can be configured as a negative pressure suction cup. When the vacuum system is turned on with negative pressure, the suction cup grips the packaging bag. When the vacuum system is turned on with positive pressure, the suction cup releases the packaging bag. Alternatively, the gripping part can be configured as a clamping mechanism. By controlling the clamping mechanism to close, the packaging bag can be gripped; by opening the clamping mechanism, the packaging bag can be released. The first position can be configured as a packaging position, that is, the output platform 121 is located between the hopper 113 and the lifting body 112. The outlet is used for users to take away the packaging bags of packaged items. The outlet can be set on the cabinet of the vending machine. The second position is configured as being located near the outlet and away from the hopper 113. The packaging device in this embodiment of the utility model can complete the following working process: 1) Initial state: The output platform 121 is located directly above the hopper 113, the lifting body 112 is at the highest point, and the packaging bags in the hopper 113 are ready. 2) Food dispensing process: The output platform 121 moves forward in the horizontal direction, exposing the hopper 113 below. At the same time, the output platform 121 completes the food dispensing action near the outlet. At this point, the conveying mechanism and the packaging mechanism separate, making room for the next step of grabbing the packaging bag. 3) Grabbing the packaging bag: The lifting body 112 descends, the grabbing part grabs the packaging bag, and the lifting body 112 carrying the packaging bag then rises, completing the process. After the user takes the meal, the output platform 121 moves backward back to the initial packaging position. 4) Placing the packaging bag: The lifting body 112 moves downward with the grabbed packaging bag until the packaging bag is placed on the output platform 121. 5) Cycle preparation: After the meal box is placed on the packaging bag on the output platform 121, the system is ready for the next round of operation, and the output mechanism can move forward again as needed to prepare for a new meal.Therefore, in this embodiment of the present invention, the packaging device, during the process of moving the output platform to near the exit for food dispensing, simultaneously completes the process of grabbing the packaging bag with the lifting body. As the output platform moves back to the initial packaging position to wait for the food box, the lifting body simultaneously completes the process of placing the packaging bag. Once the food box is placed on the packaging bag on the output platform, the output platform then proceeds with the food dispensing process. This cycle repeats continuously, achieving a fully automated process from food preparation to delivery, improving operational efficiency, ensuring food hygiene and safety, and avoiding long waiting times for users. Furthermore, the interactive packaging and conveying processes further improve operational efficiency, especially during peak hours, meeting the demands of fast consumption and ensuring consistent packaging, thereby enhancing the company's brand image.

[0032] In some embodiments, the packaging device may further include: a first guide rail 114 mounted on the first frame 111, the first guide rail 114 extending along a first direction; a lifting body 112 slidably connected to the first guide rail 114; and a first transmission assembly 115 mounted on the first frame 111 for driving the lifting body 112 to move relative to the first frame 111 along the first direction. Specifically, a first slider may be provided on one side of the lifting body 112, the first slider being slidably connected to the first guide rail 114 to provide guidance for the lifting body 112 to move up and down, making the sliding of the lifting body 112 more stable and reliable; the first transmission assembly 115 may include a lead screw, a nut adapted to the lead screw, and a drive motor; wherein the lead screw is arranged parallel to the first guide rail 114, and the nut is connected and fixed to the side of the lifting body 112; the output shaft of the drive motor is connected to the lead screw to drive the lead screw to rotate, thereby driving the lifting body 112 to move up and down along the first guide rail 114.

[0033] In some embodiments, the gripping part includes a suction cup frame 116 connected to the bottom end of the lifting body 112, the suction cup frame 116 having a plurality of negative pressure suction cups 1161; the suction cups 1161 being located on the side facing the hopper 113; the suction cup frame 116 being configured to move relative to the lifting body 112 along a first direction, so that the suction cups 1161 contact and adsorb the packaging bag in the hopper 113. Specifically, the lifting body 112 moves downward and closer to the hopper 113, and under negative pressure, the suction cups 1161 tightly adsorb the packaging bag, completing the gripping action. Since the packaging bag is made of relatively thin and light materials, using negative pressure suction cups 1161 to grip the packaging bag is more reliable. When the lifting body 112 moves upward to the predetermined height and the output platform 121 moves backward back above the hopper 113, the lifting body 112 then moves downward closer to the output platform 121. The vacuum system activates positive pressure, and the suction cup 1161 places the packaging bag. When the suction cup 1161 reaches the height of the output platform 121, the vacuum system quickly switches modes, from negative pressure to positive pressure or simply releases the vacuum, weakening the adhesion between the suction cup 1161 and the packaging bag. This switching allows the packaging bag to be placed smoothly and accurately on the output platform 121, preventing the packaging bag from falling or being damaged due to sudden release.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, such as Figure 5As shown, the packaging device further includes a vacuum system, which provides negative pressure for the suction cup 1161 to suck up the packaging bag and positive pressure for the suction cup 1161 to place the packaging bag; the vacuum system includes a vacuum pump 1181, a first solenoid valve 1182 and a second solenoid valve 1183, the air inlet 11811 of the vacuum pump, the first solenoid valve 1182 and the suction cup 1161 are connected in sequence through pipes to extract air from the suction cup 1161 and create a negative pressure environment for the suction cup 1161; the exhaust port 11812 of the vacuum pump, the second solenoid valve 1183 and the suction cup 1161 are connected in sequence through pipes to release positive pressure air to the suction cup 1161; wherein, the first solenoid valve 1182, the second solenoid valve 1183 and the suction cup 1161 are connected by a three-way connector; both the first solenoid valve 1182 and the second solenoid valve 1183 are configured as two-position three-way solenoid valves. Both the first and second solenoid valves can be normally closed 2-position 3-way solenoid valves. When the first solenoid valve 1182 is energized and opens, the vacuum pump inlet 11811, the first solenoid valve, and the suction cup 1161 are connected sequentially through a pipe, drawing air out of the suction cup 1161 and creating a negative pressure environment. Under this negative pressure, the suction cup 1161 can tightly adhere to the packaging bag, completing the gripping action. When the first solenoid valve is de-energized and the second solenoid valve 1183 is energized and opens, the vacuum pump exhaust port 11812, the second solenoid valve, and the suction cup 1161 are connected sequentially through a pipe, releasing positive pressure air to the suction cup 1161. This allows the vacuum system to quickly switch modes from negative pressure to positive pressure, reducing the adhesion between the suction cup 1161 and the packaging bag. A filter 1184 can be installed between the 3-way connector and the suction cup 1161 to remove particulate matter and impurities, improving the vacuum level and extending the equipment's service life.

[0035] In some embodiments, the packaging device further includes a guide assembly 117, which includes a guide shaft, a spring, and a guide sleeve. The guide sleeve is mounted on the lifting body 112. One end of the guide shaft is connected and fixed to the suction cup frame 116. A spring is mounted on the guide shaft, and the other end of the guide shaft extends through the guide sleeve. The guide shaft and the guide sleeve are slidably connected. The spring is located between the suction cup frame 116 and the lifting body 112. Specifically, the guide assembly 117 can be located near the four right angles of the lifting body 112. When the lifting body 112 moves the suction cup frame 116 downward, the spring on the suction cup frame 116 is compressed the instant the suction cup 1161 contacts the packaging bag. This design not only buffers the impact at the moment of contact but also provides guidance through the sliding fit of the guide shaft and the guide sleeve, ensuring that the suction cup 1161 can rise vertically and smoothly.

[0036] In some embodiments, the packaging device further includes a detection mechanism comprising a sensor and a fixing plate; the sensor is mounted on the lifting body 112 and located on the side of the lifting body 112 opposite to the suction cup frame 116; the other end of the guide shaft extends through the guide sleeve and is connected and fixed to the fixing plate; wherein, when the suction cup 1161 contacts the packaging bag in the hopper 113, the spring is compressed, and the fixing plate rises relative to the lifting body 112 and senses the sensor. Specifically, the sensor may be a paper suction sensor; the drive motor starts, drives the lead screw to rotate, thereby causing the lifting body 112 to move downward along the first guide rail 114; when the suction cup 1161 contacts the packaging bag, the spring on the suction cup frame 116 is compressed; the guide shaft and guide sleeve provide guidance through a sliding fit structure, and the guide shaft pushes the fixing plate upward. When the spring compresses a certain stroke, the fixed plate rises to a certain height, triggering the paper suction sensor. The sensor sends a signal indicating that the suction cup 1161 has been correctly positioned and contacting the packaging bag. The drive motor stops, and the lifting body 112 stops moving downwards. The vacuum system activates negative pressure, and the suction cup 1161 grips the packaging bag, allowing for precise control of individual bag gripping. After the lifting body 112 moves upwards a certain distance, the spring returns to its original position, the suction cup frame 116 falls downwards, and simultaneously, via the guide shaft, drives the fixed plate downwards, causing the fixed plate to fall back onto the lifting body 112.

[0037] In some embodiments, the conveying mechanism further includes: a second frame 122 extending along a second direction; a second guide rail 123 mounted on the second frame 122 and extending along the second direction; the second guide rail 123 being slidably connected to the output platform 121; and a second transmission assembly 124 mounted on the second frame 122 for driving the output platform 121 to move relative to the second frame 122 along the second direction. For example, the second frame 122 extends in the front-to-back direction and can be located beside the first frame 111. The second transmission assembly 124 may include, for example, a synchronous belt, a motor, a drive pulley, and a driven pulley. The drive pulley and driven pulley can be located at the front and rear ends of the second frame 122, respectively. The drive pulley is connected to the motor, and the synchronous belt wraps around the drive pulley and driven pulley. A transition piece can be provided on the synchronous belt, and the transition piece is connected and fixed to the output platform 121. When the motor drives the drive pulley to rotate, the synchronous belt drives the output platform 121 to move horizontally in the front-to-back direction. The outlet is opposite to the hopper 113 and can be located at the front and rear ends near the second frame 122. The second guide rail 123 can be located on the upper and lower sides of the second frame 122, with the synchronous belt located in the middle, to make the output platform 121 move more smoothly when moving back and forth.

[0038] In some embodiments, the output platform 121 is configured as an L-shaped structure, and the output platform 121 includes a vertical plate 1211 and a horizontal plate 1212 fixedly connected to the bottom of the vertical plate 1211; wherein, the vertical plate 1211 is provided with a second slider, and the second slider is slidably connected to the second guide rail 123; the horizontal plate 1212 is provided with a recessed area 1213, the recessed area 1213 is adapted to the item to be packaged, and the two sides of the recessed area are provided with protruding ridges 1214. Specifically, the side of the upright plate 1211 may be provided with a second slider, and the transition piece is connected and fixed to the side of the upright plate 1211; the horizontal plate 1212 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the upright plate 1211, and the horizontal plate 1212 extends forward. When the output platform 121 runs to the front end of the second frame 122, the horizontal plate 1212 can extend forward to the outlet to facilitate the user to pick up the food; the center of the horizontal plate 1212 may be provided with a recessed area. When the suction cup 1161 switches to positive pressure and the packaging bag is placed on the horizontal plate 1212, when the food box is placed on the packaging bag on the output platform 121, it can fall into the recessed area. The food box can fall into the middle of the packaging bag, which is convenient for the user to pick up the food; the two sides of the recessed area 1213 are provided with protruding ribs 1214 to facilitate the user to lift the packaging bag when picking up the food.

[0039] In some embodiments, the hopper 113 is fixedly connected to the bottom of the first frame 111. The hopper 113 and the first frame 111 can be manufactured as a single unit. The hopper 113 is not only used to hold multiple folded packaging bags, but also serves as the bottom support structure of the first frame 111, making the overall structure more stable and reliable.

[0040] In some embodiments, the suction cup holder 116 is configured as an X-shaped structure, comprising a first bracket and a second bracket, with suction cups 1161 respectively mounted at the ends of the first and second brackets. The first and second brackets can be bolted together in the middle, forming an X-shaped structure. With four suction cups 1161 mounted at the ends of the first and second brackets, they can adhere to the perimeter of a folded packaging bag. Alternatively, a suction cup 1161 can be positioned in the middle of the first and second brackets. By using multiple suction cups 1161 at different locations, the packaging bag can be firmly held in place to maintain its shape, even after being placed on the output platform 121. Four guide shafts are located at the top of the first and second brackets, further inward than the suction cups 1161. The sliding fit between the guide shafts and guide sleeves provides guidance, ensuring that the suction cups 1161 can rise or fall vertically and smoothly.

[0041] In some embodiments, a first detection sensor may be provided on the upright plate of the output platform 121 to detect whether a packaged lunch box is placed on the output platform 121; a second detection sensor may be provided on the lifting body 112 to detect whether the output platform 121 has moved back above the hopper 113.

[0042] A second aspect of this invention provides a vending machine including the aforementioned packaging device. For example... Figures 6-7 As shown, the vending machine may also include: a heating cabinet 100 and a refrigerator 200. The refrigerator 200 has multiple storage compartments for storing food containers to be cooked; each food container contains ingredients to be cooked. The heating cabinet 100 is arranged side-by-side with the refrigerator 200 along a third direction, and has an outlet on the side facing the user. The side of the heating cabinet 100 is connected to the refrigerator 200 to receive food containers stored in the refrigerator 200. The heating cabinet 100 has multiple heating chambers 130 spaced vertically, which are used to process the ingredients in the food containers using corresponding cooking methods. The packaging mechanism 110 and the conveying mechanism 120 are located between the adjacent heating chambers 130.

[0043] In this embodiment of the invention, the first direction is, for example, the Y direction in the coordinate system, the second direction is, for example, the Z direction in the coordinate system, and the third direction is, for example, the X direction in the coordinate system; correspondingly, the first direction is the up-down direction, the second direction is the front-back direction, and the third direction is the left-right direction; wherein, the side facing the user is designated as the front side. For example, the freezer 200 can be located on the left side, and the heating cabinet 100 can be located on the right side. The food container 60 can contain ingredients to be cooked, such as uncooked food that has been cleaned and processed in a central kitchen. The food container 60 is stored in the freezer 200 for refrigeration and preservation. When an end user places an order remotely or on-site via an ordering screen, a transport trolley in the freezer 200 can deliver the food container 60 from the corresponding storage compartment to the heating cabinet 100. The corresponding heating chamber 130 is selected according to the menu, and the food container 60 is delivered to the corresponding heating chamber 130. The heating method of the heating chamber 130 includes, but is not limited to, electric heating wire heating, electromagnetic heating, or microwave heating. During the cooking process, the food can be rotated and turned 360 degrees to ensure even heating. High-temperature cooking allows the food to undergo a full Maillard reaction, improving its taste. After cooking, the food container 60 is transported by the transport trolley in the heating cabinet 100 to the output platform for packaging. The conveyor mechanism 120 delivers the packaged food container 60 to the exit, where the user picks up their food and utensils, completing the order delivery. The process involves using the heating chamber 130 of the heating cabinet 100 to stir-fry or cook fresh pre-processed ingredients stored in the refrigerated display case 200, thereby improving the taste and freshness of the food and enhancing the user's dining experience. The packaging mechanism 110 and the conveying mechanism 120 are arranged in parallel and interactively. During the food dispensing process, as the output platform moves to the exit, the packaging mechanism simultaneously picks up the packaging bags. As the output platform returns to its initial packaging position to await the food containers, the packaging mechanism simultaneously places the packaging bags on the output platform. Once the overhead crane in the heating cabinet 100 places the food containers onto the packaging bags on the output platform, the output platform then begins the food dispensing process. This cycle repeats continuously, achieving a fully automated process from food preparation to delivery, improving operational efficiency, ensuring food hygiene and safety, and reducing long waiting times for users. In this embodiment of the utility model, by integrating the freezer 200 and the heating cabinet 100 side by side, not only is the overall area occupied by the equipment reduced, but the flow process and path of the lunch box 60 during the cooking process are also reduced, which can improve the working efficiency of the equipment; and the requirements for cooking dishes can be met in a short time, thereby reducing the waiting time for end users. Furthermore, the entire cooking process is unmanned, which reduces the contact contamination of food by personnel during processing.

[0044] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2As shown, the freezer 200 has a food container storage area and a condiment storage area arranged from top to bottom. The compressor can be located inside the freezer 200, below the condiment storage area. The shelf assembly 210 in the food container storage area is spaced along its height, and multiple baffles are arranged spaced along the left-right direction on the shelf assembly 210, forming storage compartments between two adjacent baffles. These storage compartments are used to hold food containers 60 to be cooked. A conveying mechanism can be installed in the storage compartment, including, for example, a motor, a synchronous belt, and a synchronous pulley. The motor drives the synchronous pulley, which in turn drives the synchronous belt, allowing the food containers 60 to enter or leave the storage compartment in the front-back direction. Each food container 60 in the storage compartment on the shelf assembly 210 is labeled to identify the food information inside. Furthermore, multiple food containers 60 with the same type of ingredients or identical ingredients can be placed in the storage compartment, spaced apart in the front-back direction, to accommodate more food containers and facilitate system scheduling and management. The food container 60 may include a lid and a base. The lid has a protruding first edge, and the base has a protruding second edge. The first edge engages with the second edge to seal the lid and base. Both the lid and base are cut along a second or third direction, and their cross-sections are trapezoidal. The length of the longest side of the food container 60 in the left-right direction (which can be defined as the narrow side) is less than the length of the longest side in the front-back direction (which can be defined as the long side). When the food container 60 is placed in a storage compartment, its narrow side faces forward, and its long side is positioned along the front-back direction. This allows for multiple storage compartments to be arranged in the same row within the freezer 200, accommodating more food containers 60. The condiment storage area has multiple condiment channels 270 spaced apart in the left-right direction for storing and transporting condiments.

[0045] In some embodiments, the freezer 200 has an openable first door 220 on the user-facing side, with a condiment dispensing slot on the first door 220; the heating cabinet 100 has an openable second door 101 on the user-facing side, with a tableware dispensing slot 103 and an outlet 102 on the second door 101. The first door 220 may, for example, be equipped with a touch-screen ordering display, with a card reader and receipt printer located below it. The condiment dispensing slot may be located below the card reader and receipt printer, corresponding to the location of the second storage area within the freezer 200. The second door 101 may, for example, have a dispensing screen, a tableware dispensing slot, and an outlet arranged sequentially from top to bottom, with a barcode scanner and the tableware dispensing slot arranged side-by-side. The height of the outlet 102 corresponds to the position of the output platform 121, which can extend from the outlet 102 for user convenience in retrieving food. This design integrates an ordering screen with a touch-screen interface on the door of the freezer 200, allowing users to easily browse menus, place orders, and pay. It also includes a receipt printer and card reader, supporting multiple payment methods to enhance transaction convenience. The heating cabinet 100 has a cutlery outlet 103 and an outlet 102 on one side, ensuring hot food is served immediately while providing necessary cutlery. The freezer 200 also has a condiment dispenser 221 on one side, allowing users to self-service condiments and personalize their dining experience. The freezer 200 can be configured as an independent unit, with the first door 220 hinged to it. When the first door 220 is open, it allows for easy restocking by the clerk. A lock can be installed on the first door 220 to keep the freezer 200 closed and prevent cold air loss.

[0046] In some embodiments, the freezer 200 is equipped with a linkage mechanism located between the first door 220 and the condiment storage area. The linkage mechanism is installed on the first door 220 and includes a fourth door 251 and a receiving hopper 252 connected to the bottom of the fourth door. The fourth door 251 is configured to rise or fall. When the fourth door 251 rises to the third position, the receiving hopper 252 is connected to the condiment dispensing port 221. When the fourth door falls to the fourth position, the fourth door 251 is located at the condiment dispensing port 221 to prevent cold air from escaping from the freezer 200. The condiment channel 270 is equipped with a spiral mechanism, in which multiple condiments are placed along a second direction. The spiral mechanism is configured to rotate to output the condiments. The top of the receiving hopper is open. When the fourth door falls to the fourth position, the receiving hopper 252 is lower than the spiral mechanism so that the condiments fall into the receiving hopper. Specifically, the condiments can be placed in a strip-shaped or cylindrical packaging box or bag. The spiral mechanism can be designed to extend in the front-to-back direction and can be driven by a motor to rotate. Each rotation of the spiral in the straight direction outputs one condiment. The top of the receiving hopper is designed to be open. The receiving hopper 252 can have an opening on the side near the first door 220. The size of the opening is adapted to the condiment dispensing port. The up-and-down movement of the fourth door 251 can be achieved by a motor-driven synchronous belt structure. When the user needs to take condiments, the spiral mechanism is driven by the motor to rotate, outputting one condiment that falls into the receiving hopper. The fourth door rises to the high position, and the opening of the receiving hopper aligns with the condiment dispensing port 221, allowing the user to take the condiments from the receiving hopper. Subsequently, the fourth door descends to the low position to seal the condiment dispensing port 221, preventing the loss of cold air from the freezer 200. The freezer 200 may also be equipped with a second transport trolley 230, which can move up and down or left and right to transport the food containers to be cooked from the storage compartment to the heating cabinet 100 through the third opening on the side.

[0047] In some embodiments, the heating cabinet 100 includes a first transport trolley 140, a transfer mechanism 160, and a tableware dispensing mechanism 170, which clamps the lunch boxes 60 and provides vertical movement for the lunch boxes 60; a temporary storage mechanism 150 is used to temporarily store the cooked lunch boxes 60; the temporary storage mechanism 150 is located inside the heating cabinet 100, between the packaging mechanism 110 and the heating chamber 130 near the top of the heating cabinet 100. When the customer's meal pickup time is uncertain, the cooked lunch boxes 60 can be temporarily stored in the temporary storage mechanism 150, and when the exit is busy, the cooked lunch boxes 60 can be temporarily stored to wait for the best meal serving time, and then the meal serving can be reasonably scheduled, improving the customer experience and increasing the utilization rate of the heating chamber 130. The transfer mechanism 160 is located at the bottom of the heating cabinet 100 and is used to receive the food containers 60 to be cooked stored in the freezer 200 into the heating cabinet 100 and to transfer the food containers 60 to be cooked to the first transport crane 140; the tableware dispensing mechanism 170 is located above the packaging mechanism 110 and is located on one side of the temporary storage mechanism 150; it is used to store packaging boxes and can output the packaging boxes from the tableware dispensing port 103; wherein, the packaging boxes contain tableware and the packaging boxes are designed as cuboid structures.

[0048] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative or explanatory of the principles of this utility model and do not constitute a limitation thereof. Therefore, any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made without departing from the spirit and scope of this utility model should be included within its protection scope. Furthermore, the appended claims are intended to cover all variations and modifications falling within the scope and boundaries of the appended claims, or equivalent forms of such scope and boundaries.

Claims

1. A packaging device for a vending machine, characterized in that, include: A packaging mechanism includes: a first frame, a lifting body, and a hopper; the first frame extends along a first direction; the lifting body is slidably connected to the first frame to allow the lifting body to move along the first direction; the lifting body is provided with a gripping part configured to grip or release packaging bags; the hopper is used to hold multiple folded packaging bags; the hopper is located at the bottom of the first frame. A conveying mechanism, arranged parallel to and interacting with the packaging mechanism, includes an output platform configured to move along a second direction to a first position or a second position, so as to receive the packaging bag and package the items to be packaged when in the first position; wherein... The first position is located between the hopper and the lifting body; the second position is located near the outlet and away from the hopper; the outlet is used to output packaged items; The first direction is roughly perpendicular to the second direction.

2. The packaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The first guide rail is mounted on the first frame. The first guide rail is configured to extend along a first direction and is slidably connected to the lifting body. as well as, A first transmission assembly, mounted on the first frame, is used to drive the lifting body to move relative to the first frame in a first direction.

3. The packaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gripping unit includes: A suction cup frame is connected to the bottom end of the lifting body, and the suction cup frame is equipped with multiple negative pressure suction cups; the suction cups are located on the side facing the hopper; The suction cup is configured to move relative to the lifting body in a first direction so that the suction cup contacts and adsorbs the packaging bag in the hopper.

4. The packaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: A guide assembly, comprising a guide shaft, a spring, and a guide sleeve; A guide sleeve is fitted onto the lifting body. One end of the guide shaft is connected and fixed to the suction cup frame. A spring is fitted onto the guide shaft, and the other end of the guide shaft extends out of the guide sleeve. The guide shaft and the guide sleeve are slidably connected. The spring is located between the suction cup frame and the lifting body.

5. The packaging device according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: The testing mechanism includes sensors and mounting plates; The sensor is mounted on the lifting body and is located on the side of the lifting body away from the suction cup frame; The other end of the guide shaft passes through the guide sleeve and is connected and fixed to the fixing plate; wherein... When the suction cup contacts the packaging bag inside the hopper, the spring is compressed, the fixing plate rises relative to the lifting body and is sensed by the sensor.

6. The packaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying mechanism further includes: The second frame is configured to extend along the second direction; A second guide rail, mounted on the second frame, is configured to extend along a second direction; the second guide rail is slidably connected to the output platform; and... The second transmission assembly, which is mounted on the second frame, is used to drive the output platform to move relative to the second frame in a second direction.

7. The packaging device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The output platform is designed with an L-shaped structure, comprising a vertical plate and a horizontal plate fixedly connected to the bottom of the vertical plate; wherein... The upright plate is provided with a second slider, which is slidably connected to the second guide rail. The horizontal plate has a recessed area that is adapted to the item to be packaged, and the recessed area has protruding ridges on both sides.

8. The packaging device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A vacuum system, which provides negative pressure for the suction cup to pick up the packaging bag and positive pressure for the suction cup to place the packaging bag; The vacuum system includes a vacuum pump, a first solenoid valve, and a second solenoid valve. The air inlet of the vacuum pump, the first solenoid valve, and the suction cup are connected in sequence through a pipe to extract air from the suction cup and create a negative pressure environment. The exhaust port of the vacuum pump, the second solenoid valve, and the suction cup are connected in sequence through a pipe to release positive pressure air into the suction cup. The first solenoid valve, the second solenoid valve, and the suction cup are connected by a three-way valve. Both the first and second solenoid valves are two-position three-way solenoid valves.

9. The packaging device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The suction cup holder is designed with an X-shaped structure. The suction cup holder includes a first bracket and a second bracket, and the suction cup is respectively installed at the ends of the first bracket and the second bracket.

10. A vending machine, characterized in that, Includes the packaging device as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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