Fermented grain distribution state detection device

Abstract

The utility model relates to a fermented grain distribution state detection device which comprises a detection part arranged above a conveying part, the detection part comprises a first detection rod and a second detection rod which are sleeved with each other and can rotate independently, and the two detection rods respectively extend towards the direction of the conveying part to form at least one material touch block; when fermented grains pass through the transmission part area corresponding to the material touch block, the material touch block drives the detection rod corresponding to the material touch block to rotate by means of pushing force applied to the material touch block by the fermented grains, the end parts of the two detection rods are respectively and rotatably supported in the bases, a detection unit is arranged in each base, and the detection units are respectively connected with the detection rods. Each detection unit is configured to output a signal representing the distribution state of the fermented grains on the conveying part in response to the rotation of the corresponding detection rod.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the technical field of liquor brewing equipment, and in particular to a device for detecting the distribution state of fermented mash. Background Technology

[0002] In the traditional baijiu brewing process, the distilled mash needs to be evenly distributed through a spreading and feeding machine. Then, the cooling and koji mixing processes are completed on the spreading and feeding machine. The uniformity of the mash distribution is the core prerequisite for determining the quality of subsequent fermentation. Uniform distribution not only ensures that the mash is in full contact with the air, achieving rapid and uniform cooling, but also ensures that the koji powder and mash form a stable ratio, providing a consistent environmental basis for microbial fermentation.

[0003] However, many technical challenges remain in the existing production process. Firstly, on production lines using air-cooled spreaders (such as open or semi-closed types), the distribution of the mash is often uneven due to factors such as the viscosity of the mash itself and the structure of the discharge port. This results in some areas of mash being too thick or too thin on the spreader's chain plate. Areas with excessively thick mash cannot cool down quickly, while areas with excessively thin mash easily dissipate heat, leading to an overall imbalance in temperature control. This also prevents the koji powder from evenly combining with mash of varying thicknesses during the subsequent koji addition process, resulting in localized imbalances in the proportions. Ultimately, this affects the consistency of fermentation of the mash. Secondly, the traditional spreading and drying process can only achieve basic detection of the "presence" or "absence" of mash on the chain plate, lacking precise perception of the spatial distribution of the material. In particular, it cannot effectively identify the "tailing" phenomenon caused by improper discharge of the feeding trolley at the end of the spreading and drying process. This makes it impossible for the rear-end koji-adding unit to distinguish between areas with and without material on the chain plate, and it continues to sprinkle koji onto the un-laid surface of the chain plate, which not only wastes a lot of koji powder, but also causes dust to overflow and pollute the production environment. In addition, existing contact detection devices are prone to failure of moving parts due to material adhesion when dealing with high humidity and high viscosity mash environments, and it is difficult to achieve independent detection of multiple areas within a limited installation space.

[0004] CN116610079A discloses a koji-adding control system and method. Although it optimizes the stability of the koji-adding flow and the controllability of the mash temperature by constructing a flow closed-loop control system and adding a temperature control module, the technical solution still has significant defects and fails to fundamentally solve the above-mentioned pain points: On the one hand, the system lacks a special detection design for the distribution state of the mash and does not set up a detection structure that can sense the difference in the distribution of mash in the width direction of the conveying section. It only assumes that the mash is evenly distributed and relies on the overall flow and temperature parameters for koji-adding control. In actual production, even if the deviation between the real-time flow rate of the added koji and the target flow rate meets the preset requirements, uneven distribution of the mash can still occur in scenarios such as air-cooled spreading, where uneven distribution is likely to occur. This can lead to a local imbalance in the ratio of koji powder to mash. For example, the amount of koji powder actually needed in the mash of the overly thick area may be greater than the current amount of added koji, while the opposite is true for the overly thin area, which ultimately affects the fermentation quality. On the other hand, the system lacks an effective detection and prediction mechanism for the "tailing" phenomenon at the end of the spreading process. It cannot identify the blank areas on the conveyor that have not been covered in time, causing the koji-adding unit to continuously sprinkle koji onto the chain plate area without mash. The problems of koji powder waste and dust overflow have not been solved, and the pain points of traditional processes have been continued.

[0005] Furthermore, on the one hand, there are differences in understanding among those skilled in the art; on the other hand, the applicant studied a large number of documents and patents when making this utility model, but due to space limitations, not all details and contents were listed in detail. However, this does not mean that this utility model does not have the features of these prior art. On the contrary, this utility model has all the features of the prior art, and the applicant reserves the right to add relevant prior art to the background art. Utility Model Content

[0006] In view of the shortcomings of the prior art, this utility model provides a device for detecting the distribution state of fermented mash, and in particular a device for detecting the uniformity of fermented mash during the spreading process on an open-air air-cooled spreading machine for brewing, which aims to solve one or more technical problems in the prior art.

[0007] This utility model relates to a device for detecting the distribution state of fermented mash, including a detection unit disposed above a conveying unit. The detection unit includes a first detection rod and a second detection rod coaxially sleeved and capable of independent rotation, with the second detection rod passing through the first detection rod. Each of the two detection rods extends at least one contact block in the direction of the conveying unit, such that the contact block can drive the corresponding detection rod to rotate by the pushing force exerted on it by the fermented mash passing through the conveying unit. Each end of the two detection rods is provided with a detection unit, and each detection unit is configured to output a signal characterizing the distribution state of fermented mash on the conveying unit in response to the rotation of its corresponding detection rod. The tube wall of the first detection rod is provided with a clearance opening for the contact block of the second detection rod to extend out. The circumferential extension length of the clearance opening covers the maximum relative rotation stroke of the first and second detection rods in the working state, so that the edge of the clearance opening does not interfere with the contact block of the second detection rod.

[0008] This invention, through a coaxial sleeve structure, enables independent monitoring of the distribution of mash in different areas along the width of the conveyor section within a limited installation space. This effectively solves the problems of uneven material distribution and difficulty in identifying the tailing stage during air-cooled spreading, thus improving fermentation consistency. The passive detection method, which utilizes the driving force of the mash to rotate the detection rod, is simple in structure and requires no additional power source. In particular, the design of the avoidance opening covers the maximum relative rotation stroke, ensuring that even when the rotation speed or angle of the two detection rods is asynchronous, the edge of the outer tube opening never mechanically interferes with the inner rod's contact block. This completely eliminates the potential jamming risk of the coaxial structure and significantly improves the logical reliability and detection accuracy of the device.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, a flexible sealing component is provided at the clearance opening. One end of the flexible sealing component is connected to the edge of the clearance opening, and the other end is abutted or connected to the contact block of the protruding second detection rod, to prevent mash debris from entering the gap between the first and second detection rods. This design effectively solves the technical problem that mash debris and dust can easily enter the gap between the two detection rods through the clearance opening. The flexible sealing component achieves dynamic sealing of the gap between the pipes without hindering the normal swing of the contact block, preventing corrosion or adhesion caused by internal dust accumulation, and significantly enhancing the long-term operational stability of the device under harsh conditions of high humidity, high viscosity, and high dust.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment, the detection device further includes a base, and the detection unit is installed within the base. The detection unit includes a detection switch and a sensing block. The detection switch is fixedly installed within the base, and the sensing block is fixedly connected to the end of the detection rod. When the detection rod rotates, it drives the sensing block at its end to move, causing the sensing block to contact or disengage from the corresponding detection switch, thereby switching the output state of the detection switch. Through the cooperation of the detection switch and the sensing block, the mechanical rotation of the detection rod is accurately converted into an electrical signal, which can sensitively feedback whether lees have passed through the corresponding area. The base provides a stable installation environment for the detection unit, ensuring the accuracy of the signal output. The mechanism of the sensing block triggering the switch as the rod rotates is simple, reliable, and easy to maintain, providing accurate data support for subsequent automated curing or fabric control.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment, the base is detachably mounted on both sides of the conveyor section using fasteners, thereby allowing the first and second detection rods to span across the top of the conveyor section along its width. The detachable fastener connection makes installation and maintenance extremely convenient, and the base position can be flexibly adjusted according to site requirements. The spanning layout ensures that the detection rods can fully cover the entire width of the conveyor section, eliminating blind spots and guaranteeing comprehensive real-time monitoring of the mash distribution on the conveyor surface.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the contact block of the first detection rod is a first contact block, and multiple first contact blocks are arranged in the width direction of the conveyor section, so that they can correspond to different areas of the conveyor section respectively; the contact block of the second detection rod is a second contact block, and the second contact block corresponds to the middle area of ​​the conveyor section. This layout realizes independent zone monitoring of different areas of the conveyor section (especially the two side edges and the middle area). By setting up multiple contact blocks, the device can specifically identify the uneven distribution of mash on the conveyor belt (such as insufficient material in the middle or on both sides), thereby providing a spatially resolved detection basis for the precise feeding of the spreading feeder or the dynamic adjustment of the amount of koji added at the rear end.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, both the first and second contact blocks include an upright section and a bent section; one end of the upright section is connected to a corresponding detection rod, and the other end is connected to the bent section; the bent section is deflected in the direction of the grain's movement on the conveyor. The streamlined design of the bent section deflecting in the direction of the grain's movement effectively reduces the resistance when the contact block cuts into the grain flow, allowing the horizontal pushing force of the grain to be more efficiently converted into the rotational torque of the detection rod. This structure ensures sensitive triggering of the detection action while avoiding excessive obstruction or disturbance to the normal conveying of the grain by the contact block.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, when the first and second contact blocks are suspended above the conveyor under gravity, the vertical distance between the bent end of the contact block and the conveying surface of the conveyor remains at a predetermined value. By setting a predetermined ground clearance for the contact blocks when naturally suspended, it is possible to effectively intercept and sense a normal thickness of fermentation layer, while ensuring that the contact blocks do not rub against the conveyor surface when the conveyor belt is empty or without material. This design ensures detection effectiveness while avoiding false triggering and unnecessary component wear, thus extending the equipment's service life.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the upright section of the contact block is adjustablely fixed to the detection rod by locking screws to adjust the vertical distance between the end of its bent section and the conveying surface. This stepless adjustment structure, achieved using locking screws, allows operators to flexibly adjust the detection sensitivity and trigger threshold of the contact block according to the thickness of the mash layer required for different production batches or processes. This adjustability greatly expands the applicability of the device, enabling it to adapt to various conveying equipment and process scenarios of different specifications. Furthermore, the adjustment operation does not require disassembly of the main body, making it convenient and quick.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the ends of the first and second detection rods are rotatably connected to the base via independent bearings. The two ends of the first detection rod are supported on the bases on both sides via first bearings, and the two ends of the second detection rod extend beyond the first detection rod and are supported on the bases on both sides via second bearings. Using independent bearings to support the inner and outer detection rods ensures, from a physical structure perspective, that their rotations do not interfere with each other, completely eliminating inter-shaft friction that may occur with a sleeved structure. This not only significantly reduces rotational resistance and improves the device's response sensitivity to weak thrust, but also ensures the mechanical stability and return accuracy during long-term operation.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the surfaces of the first detection rod, the second detection rod, and the contact block are covered with an anti-corrosion layer or an anti-stick coating. For the special working conditions of high humidity, high acidity, and high viscosity of the mash in a liquor brewing workshop, the surface coating design effectively prevents material adhesion and accumulation on the contact block and rods, avoiding imbalance or sluggish operation caused by material adhesion. Simultaneously, the excellent anti-corrosion performance isolates the metal substrate from the harsh environment, significantly reducing the equipment failure rate and extending the maintenance cycle. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of the module connection relationship of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model;

[0019] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of the base of one end of the detection rod of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model from a first-view perspective;

[0020] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of one end base of the detection rod of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model from a second perspective.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram from a third-view perspective of the base of one end of the detection rod of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model;

[0022] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second contact block of the second detection rod of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model;

[0023] Figure 6 This is a first-view structural schematic diagram of the base at the other end of the detection rod of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model;

[0024] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the base at the other end of the detection rod of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model from a second perspective.

[0025] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a preferred detection device provided by this utility model after the two detection rods are disassembled;

[0026] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the detection device provided by this utility model when the fermented mash on the conveying section is only distributed in the two sides of the width direction;

[0027] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the detection device provided by this utility model when the lees on the conveying section are only concentrated in the middle area of ​​the width direction of the conveying section;

[0028] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the detection device provided by this utility model when the fermented mash on the conveying section is evenly distributed along the entire width of the conveying section.

[0029] List of reference numerals

[0030] 100: First detection rod; 110: First contact block; 120: Clearance opening; 130: First sensing block;

[0031] 200: Second detection rod; 210: Second contact block; 220: Second sensing block;

[0032] 300: Base; 310: First bearing; 320: Second bearing; 330: First detection switch; 340: Second detection switch;

[0033] 400: Upright section; 410: Bent section. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The following is a detailed explanation with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] This embodiment relates to a device for detecting the distribution state of fermented grains, which is mainly used in the process of conveying fermented grains using an air-cooled spreader to monitor the uniformity of their distribution. Figure 1 As shown, the device includes a detection unit that can be configured above the conveying unit. The conveying unit can be a conventional belt conveyor or chain conveyor structure, with its conveying surface used to carry and transport the mash. The detection unit determines the distribution state of the mash by sensing the contact of mash in different areas of the conveying unit.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the main structure of the detection unit consists of a first detection rod 100 and a second detection rod 200 that are nested together and can rotate independently. Both detection rods extend horizontally, perpendicular to the conveying direction of the conveying unit, ensuring full coverage of the width of the conveying unit. The first detection rod 100 is a hollow tubular structure with its walls made of high-strength metal, possessing good rigidity and wear resistance, and maintaining structural stability during long-term use. The second detection rod 200 is a rod-shaped structure adapted to the first detection rod 100, with its outer diameter slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the first detection rod 100, so as to achieve coaxial fitting inside the hollow tube of the first detection rod 100. A reasonable gap is reserved between the two to ensure that they can rotate relatively independently without external interference, without affecting their respective movement states. Both detection rods extend at least one contact block in the direction of the conveying section. The first detection rod 100 is provided with a first contact block 110, and the second detection rod 200 is provided with a second contact block 210. These contact blocks are distributed at intervals along the length of the detection rods to ensure that the mash at different positions in the conveying section can be detected.

[0037] When the conveyor is in operation, if there is lees passing through the area of ​​the conveyor corresponding to the contact block, the lees will generate an interaction force with the contact part of the contact block during the movement. With the help of the pushing force exerted on it by the lees along the conveying direction, the contact block will drive the detection rod corresponding to the contact block to rotate around its own axis. This rotation can then provide a mechanical motion signal for the judgment of the subsequent detection unit.

[0038] like Figures 2-4As shown, the ends of the two detection rods are rotatably supported in the base 300. The base 300 serves as the mounting and support foundation for the entire detection unit. It contains mounting chambers adapted to the ends of the detection rods, which not only accommodate the detection units but also provide a stable support environment for the rotation of the detection rods. Each base 300 contains an independent detection unit, with the two units corresponding to the first detection rod 100 and the second detection rod 200, respectively. The core function of each detection unit is to comprehensively judge the distribution of the mash on the conveyor section by detecting whether its corresponding detection rod rotates. If the detection rod rotates, it indicates that mash has passed through the corresponding area; if the detection rod remains stationary, it indicates that no mash has passed through the corresponding area. This allows for monitoring of whether the mash is evenly distributed across all areas and whether there are any areas lacking material.

[0039] like Figures 2-4 As shown, the detection unit specifically includes a detection switch and a sensing block. The detection switch is a conventional detection element adapted for industrial environments. It can be selected from types such as proximity switches, micro switches, or photoelectric switches according to actual detection needs. It has a stable signal output function, converting mechanical contact signals or induction signals into electrical signals. Through its built-in or electrically connected indicator devices, it conveys the distribution status of the fermented grains to the operator in an audible and visual manner. The detection switch can be fixedly installed in a preset position inside the base 300. The installation structure can adopt a slot-type fixing or bolt fastening method to ensure that the detection switch will not shift or loosen during device operation, thus guaranteeing detection accuracy. The sensing block is fixedly connected to the end of the detection rod. Its shape is adapted to the detection method of the detection switch. If a proximity switch is used, the sensing block can be a block or sheet structure made of metal. If a micro switch is used, the sensing block can be a protruding structure with a certain length. The connection between the sensing block and the end of the detection rod can be fixed by welding or detachable by bolts. Welding can ensure the firmness of the connection and prevent the sensing block from falling off during the rotation of the detection rod. Bolt connection facilitates subsequent maintenance and replacement. When the detection rod rotates under the drive of the contact block, it synchronously drives the sensing block at its end to rotate around the axis of the detection rod, causing a change in the relative position between the sensing block and the corresponding detection switch. Specifically, this manifests as two states: contact or disengagement. If it is a micro switch, when the sensing block rotates to a specific position, it will contact the trigger end of the detection switch, pushing the detection switch to switch the output state. If it is a proximity switch, when the sensing block rotates into the sensing range of the detection switch, the detection switch receives the sensing signal and switches the output state; otherwise, it returns to the initial output state. Through this switching of output states, the rotation of the detection rod can be accurately converted into an electrical signal, and the distribution state of the mash can be judged accordingly.

[0040] like Figures 9-11As shown, the base 300 is detachably mounted on both sides of the conveyor section using fasteners. Mounting supports are provided on both sides of the conveyor section, with mounting holes or mounting surfaces adapted to the base 300. The base 300 and the mounting supports are fixed together using conventional fasteners such as bolts and nuts. This detachable mounting method not only facilitates the overall installation and disassembly of the device but also allows adjustment of the mounting position of the base 300 on both sides of the conveyor section according to actual testing needs, thereby changing the height or horizontal position of the detection rods and improving the adaptability of the device. The first detection rod 100 and the second detection rod 200, supported by the base 300, span across the conveyor section along its width. The two ends of the two detection rods respectively engage with the support structures within the base 300 on both sides, ensuring the stability of their spanning state.

[0041] like Figure 1 and Figure 8 As shown, in order to separately monitor the distribution of mash in different areas along the width of the conveying section, at least two first contact blocks 110 are provided on the first detection rod 100 along the width of the conveying section. These first contact blocks 110 are distributed along the length of the first detection rod 100, and each first contact block 110 corresponds to a specific area of ​​the conveying section. When mash passes through different positions on the conveying section, the corresponding first contact block 110 can be triggered, thereby driving the first detection rod 100 to rotate as a whole. In conjunction with the detection unit, the distribution of mash in each area of ​​the conveying section can be located, avoiding detection blind spots.

[0042] like Figure 1 , Figure 8 As shown, since the first detection rod 100 is a hollow tube structure, and the second detection rod 200 is coaxially sleeved inside the hollow tube, and the two can rotate relatively independently, this sleeve structure can enable the two detection rods to work independently within a limited installation space, reducing the overall space occupied by the device. Figure 5 As shown, to ensure the proper functioning of the second contact block 210, a radial clearance opening 120 is provided on the wall of the first detection rod 100. The position of the clearance opening 120 corresponds to the installation position of the second contact block 210 on the second detection rod 200. The shape and structure of the clearance opening 120 provide sufficient extension space for the second contact block 210, allowing it to extend through the clearance opening 120 to the outside of the first detection rod 100 and contact the mash on the conveying section. The second contact block 210 can be installed and fixed through the clearance opening 120 (e.g., by threaded connection) after the second detection rod 200 is fitted into the first detection rod 100. Considering the harsh environment of the mash, a flexible sealing skin (e.g., a silicone curtain) is provided at the clearance opening 120 to prevent dust from entering the gap between the two pipes and causing corrosion and jamming. This sealing skin moves with the contact block, neither hindering rotation nor hindering external mash.

[0043] like Figure 5 As shown, the dimension of the clearance opening 120 in the rotation plane of the detection rod is designed to be larger than the dimension corresponding to the trajectory formed by the second contact block 210 extending from the clearance opening 120 when rotating around the axis of its detection rod in the same plane. This ensures that the second contact block 210 will not contact or rub against the edge of the clearance opening 120 during the entire stroke of rotating with the second detection rod 200. This design effectively avoids mechanical interference between the two components, reduces wear, extends the service life of the device, and ensures the smooth rotation of the second detection rod 200, ensuring that the contact block can respond promptly to the pushing force of the mash, thereby improving the sensitivity and accuracy of the detection.

[0044] Preferably, to prevent the edge of the clearance opening 120 from colliding with the contact block of the stationary or rotating second detection rod 200 when the first detection rod 100 rotates, this application specifically designs a large-angle clearance opening 120. The circumferential curvature of the clearance opening 120 needs to cover the maximum relative rotation angle of the two detection rods. For example, if the working rotation angle of both rods is 30°, considering the phase difference, the curvature of the clearance opening 120 should be designed to be at least 60°, preferably 90~120°.

[0045] Combination Figure 2 and Figure 5 The first contact block 110 and the second contact block 210 can adopt the same structural design, both including an upright section 400 and a bent section 410. This segmented structure can better adapt to the movement state of the mash and the detection requirements. The upright section 400 is the connecting and supporting part of the contact block. One end is fixedly connected to the corresponding detection rod, and the other end is fixedly connected to the bent section 410. The upright section 400 can be columnar or plate-shaped, with sufficient length and rigidity to ensure the overall structural stability of the contact block and prevent bending or deformation when subjected to the pushing force of the mash. The bent section 410 is the part of the contact block that directly contacts the mash. It is deflected in the direction of the mash's movement on the conveyor. This deflection structure allows the mash to push the contact block with less resistance during the conveying process, while ensuring that the pushing force can be efficiently transmitted to the detection rod, driving the detection rod to rotate. The connection between the upright section 400 and the bent section 410 can be achieved using an integral molding process or a welding process to ensure that the contact block will not break or fall off during long-term use. The overall material of the contact block can be a wear-resistant and corrosion-resistant metal or a high-strength engineering plastic. In addition, the surfaces of the contact block, the first detection rod 100, and the second detection rod 200 can also be covered with an anti-corrosion layer or an anti-stick coating to adapt to the material characteristics and production environment of the mash, avoiding wear and corrosion caused by long-term contact with the mash, which would affect the detection effect.

[0046] The weight of the contact block and the bearing friction torque are matched to ensure that, in the absence of external thrust, the return torque generated by the gravity of the contact block is greater than the system friction torque, allowing it to reliably return to its natural hanging state. When the first contact block 110 and the second contact block 210 are naturally suspended above the conveying section under their own weight, the vertical distance between the end of the bent section 410 of the contact block and the conveying surface of the conveying section remains at a predetermined value. This predetermined value is mainly based on the normal conveying thickness of the mash, ensuring that when the thickness of the mash reaches the normal production requirements, it can fully contact the end of the bent section 410 and generate sufficient pushing force to drive the detection rod to rotate. At the same time, it avoids the situation where the bent section 410 rubs against the conveying surface when there is no mash due to the distance being too close, or the situation where the mash is too far away and the contact block cannot be triggered to rotate. Under the influence of gravity, the contact block maintains a stable suspended posture, and the detection rod is initially stationary. At this time, the detection switch of the detection unit and the sensing block are in a preset initial relative position, outputting an initial signal to prepare for subsequent detection. To adapt to the detection requirements of different thicknesses of slurry, the upright section 400 of the contact block is adjustablely fixed to the detection rod by a locking screw, allowing flexible adjustment of the vertical distance between the end of the bent section 410 and the conveying surface. The upright section 400 has an elongated adjustment hole extending along its length, and the detection rod has a corresponding threaded hole. The locking screw passes through the adjustment hole and is threaded into the threaded hole on the detection rod. Tightening the locking screw securely fixes the upright section 400 to the preset position on the detection rod. When the distance needs to be adjusted, simply loosen the locking screw and move the upright section 400 up and down along the length of the adjustment hole to change the overall installation height of the contact block, thereby adjusting the distance between the end of the bent section 410 and the conveying surface. After adjusting to the appropriate position, tighten the locking screw again to complete the fixation. This adjustable structure allows the device to adapt to different production process requirements, expanding its applicability. Simultaneously, adjustment is simple and convenient, requiring no disassembly of the entire detection rod or contact block, thus reducing maintenance costs. Positioning marks can also be set on the detection rod to assist operators in accurately adjusting the height of the contact block, ensuring that the adjusted distance meets the detection requirements.

[0047] like Figure 2 , Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, the ends of the first detection rod 100 and the second detection rod 200 are rotatably connected to the base 300 via independent bearings. The end of the first detection rod 100 engages with the first bearing 310, and the end of the second detection rod 200 engages with the second bearing 320. This independent bearing arrangement ensures that the rotation of the two detection rods does not interfere with each other, allowing for smooth rotation. The bearings are deep groove ball bearings suitable for industrial applications, possessing good radial load capacity and rotational flexibility. This effectively reduces frictional resistance during rod rotation, ensuring that the detection rods can rotate even with minimal pushing force on the contact block, thus improving the device's detection sensitivity. The inner ring of the bearing is connected to the end of the detection rod using an interference fit, ensuring synchronous rotation and preventing relative slippage. The outer ring of the bearing is fixedly installed in a pre-set bearing housing inside the base 300. The bearing housing is a cylindrical cavity adapted to the outer ring of the bearing, providing precise positioning and fixation, preventing bearing displacement during device operation. Dustproof seals are installed at both ends of the bearing to effectively prevent external dust, mash debris, and other impurities from entering the bearing, thus avoiding affecting its rotational performance and service life, and ensuring that the detection rod maintains smooth rotation over a long period. Through the bearing connection, the rotational engagement between the detection rod and the base 300 is more precise and stable, providing a reliable mechanical foundation for accurate detection by the detection unit. The coaxial sleeve structure of the first detection rod 100 and the second detection rod 200 of the entire device, with its independent rotation design, allows for the separate monitoring of mash in different areas or states. The segmented structure and adjustable installation design of the contact block improve the adaptability and detection flexibility of the device. The detection unit, through the cooperation of the detection switch and the sensing block, can accurately convert mechanical rotation signals into electrical signals, facilitating operator processing and judgment.

[0048] like Figure 9 As shown, when the fermented mash on the conveyor section is only distributed on both sides in the width direction and there is no fermented mash in the middle area, the fermented mash will contact the ends of the bent sections 410 of the two first contact blocks 110 on the first detection rod 100 during the movement, and transmit the force to the tube wall of the first detection rod 100. After being pushed by the contact blocks, the first detection rod 100 can rotate smoothly around its own axis, thereby changing the relative positional relationship between the first sensing block 130 at its end and the first detection switch 330 in the base 300: that is, the first sensing block 130 will disengage from the first detection switch 330 as it rotates. This change in relative position directly causes the output state of the first detection switch 330 to switch, converting the mechanical rotation signal into an electrical signal, and feeding back the detection information "fermented mash is passing through both sides of the conveyor section" to the operator.

[0049] like Figure 10As shown, when the fermented mash is concentrated only in the middle area of ​​the conveyor section in the width direction, and there is no fermented mash covering the two sides, the pushing force of the fermented mash acts on the bent section 410 of the second contact block 210, and transmits the force along the upright section 400 to the rod of the second detection rod 200. Under the action of the pushing force of the fermented mash, the second detection rod 200 rotates around its own axis, and the second sensing block 220 fixed at its end moves in a circular motion, thereby changing its relative position with the second detection switch 340. Similar to the working principle of the first sensing block 130 and the first detection switch 330, the second detection switch 340 feeds back an electrical signal to the operator that "fermented mash has passed through the middle of the conveyor section".

[0050] like Figure 11 As shown, when the mash is evenly distributed across the entire width of the conveyor section, completely covering both sides and the middle area, the first detection rod 100 and the second detection rod 200 of the device are simultaneously triggered to rotate, achieving synchronous detection of the mash distribution across the entire area. Because the first detection rod 100 and the second detection rod 200 adopt a coaxially sleeved independent rotation design, the gap between them avoids mutual interference during rotation, allowing the two detection rods to rotate synchronously under the drive of their respective contact blocks without affecting each other. The movement of the first sensing block 130 and the second sensing block 220 independently acts on their corresponding detection switches. Both detection switches output switched electrical signals, providing the operator with dual information: "mash on both sides" and "mash in the middle." In summary, through the synchronous signal feedback from the two detection switches, the operator can directly determine that mash has passed through the entire area of ​​the conveyor section, achieving effective monitoring of the uniform distribution of mash.

[0051] It should be noted that the above specific embodiments are exemplary. Those skilled in the art can devise various solutions inspired by the disclosure of this utility model, and these solutions all fall within the scope of this utility model and its protection scope. Those skilled in the art should understand that this utility model specification and its drawings are illustrative and do not constitute a limitation on the claims. The protection scope of this utility model is defined by the claims and their equivalents. Throughout the text, features introduced by "preferred" are merely optional and should not be construed as mandatory. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to abandon or delete relevant preferred features at any time.

Claims

1. A device for detecting the distribution state of fermented mash, comprising a detection unit disposed above a conveying unit, characterized in that, The detection unit includes a first detection rod (100) and a second detection rod (200) that are coaxially sleeved and can rotate independently, with the second detection rod (200) passing through the first detection rod (100); Each of the two detection rods extends at least one contact block in the direction of the conveying section, so that the contact block can drive the corresponding detection rod to rotate by the pushing force exerted on it by the mash passing through the conveying section. Each of the two detection rods has a detection unit at its end. Each detection unit is configured to output a signal characterizing the distribution state of the mash on the conveying section in response to the rotation of its corresponding detection rod. The first detection rod (100) has a clearance opening (120) on its tube wall for the material contact block of the second detection rod (200) to extend out. The circumferential extension length of the clearance opening (120) covers the maximum relative rotation stroke of the first detection rod (100) and the second detection rod (200) in the working state, so that the edge of the clearance opening (120) does not interfere with the material contact block of the second detection rod (200).

2. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A flexible sealing component is provided at the clearance opening (120). One end of the flexible sealing component is connected to the edge of the clearance opening (120), and the other end is attached to or connected to the material contact block of the extended second detection rod (200) to prevent mash debris from entering the gap between the first detection rod (100) and the second detection rod (200).

3. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection device further includes a base (300), and the detection unit is installed in the base (300); the detection unit includes a detection switch and a sensing block; the detection switch is fixedly installed in the base (300), and the sensing block is fixedly connected to the end of the detection rod; when the detection rod rotates, it drives the sensing block at its end to move, so that the sensing block contacts or disengages from the corresponding detection switch, thereby switching the output state of the detection switch.

4. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The base (300) is detachably mounted on both sides of the conveying section by fasteners, so that the first detection rod (100) and the second detection rod (200) span across the top of the conveying section along the width direction of the conveying section.

5. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first detection rod (100) has a first contact block (110) as its contact block. Multiple first contact blocks (110) are provided in the width direction of the conveying part, so that they can correspond to different areas of the conveying part respectively. The second detection rod (200) has a second contact block (210) as its contact block. The second contact block (210) corresponds to the middle area of ​​the conveying part.

6. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 5, characterized in that, Both the first contact block (110) and the second contact block (210) include an upright section (400) and a bent section (410); one end of the upright section (400) is connected to the corresponding detection rod, and the other end is connected to the bent section (410); the bent section (410) is deflected in the direction of the movement of the mash on the conveying part.

7. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the first contact block (110) and the second contact block (210) are suspended above the conveying unit under the action of gravity, the vertical distance between the end of the bent section (410) of the first contact block (110) and the end of the bent section (410) of the second contact block (210) and the conveying surface of the conveying unit remains at a predetermined value.

8. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The upright section (400) of the contact block is adjustablely fixed to the detection rod by a locking screw to adjust the vertical distance between the end of its bent section (410) and the conveying surface.

9. The fermented mash distribution state detection device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The ends of the first detection rod (100) and the second detection rod (200) are rotatably connected to the base (300) through independent bearings; the two ends of the first detection rod (100) are supported on the base (300) on both sides through the first bearing (310), and the two ends of the second detection rod (200) pass through the first detection rod (100) and are supported on the base (300) on both sides through the second bearing (320).

10. The apparatus for detecting the distribution state of fermented mash according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The surfaces of the first detection rod (100), the second detection rod (200), and the contact block are covered with an anti-corrosion layer or an anti-stick coating.

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