Pizza box delivery device and self-service pizza machine

By designing the storage and retrieval mechanisms for the pizza box dispensing device, the problem of large space occupied by pizza boxes was solved, the storage efficiency of the self-service pizza machine was improved, and efficient use of space was achieved.

CN223966931UActive Publication Date: 2026-03-03CHANGSHA ZHONGGU INTELLIGENT EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING CO LTD
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Utility models(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-03-31
Publication Date
2026-03-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The pizza boxes in existing self-service pizza machines are relatively large, resulting in low space utilization of the storage device and a small storage capacity.

Method used

A pizza box dispensing device was designed, including a box storage mechanism, a box retrieval mechanism, and a pick-and-place platform. The pizza boxes are stored in a separate box storage mechanism, and the pizza boxes are taken out of the box storage mechanism and placed on the pick-and-place platform using the box retrieval mechanism. The pizza boxes are fixed and moved by the combination of limiting components and suction cups.

Benefits of technology

It improves the space utilization of storage devices and auxiliary cabinets, increases the storage capacity of pizza boxes, has a simple structure, and makes full use of the space of the self-service pizza machine.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The utility model discloses a pizza box delivery device and a self-service pizza machine, the pizza box delivery device is installed in an auxiliary cabinet of the self-service pizza machine, the pizza box delivery device comprises a box storage mechanism, a box taking mechanism and a taking and placing platform, the taking and placing platform is installed in the auxiliary cabinet, the box storage mechanism is installed above the taking and placing platform, the box taking mechanism is installed below the taking and placing platform, and the box storage mechanism is installed above the box taking mechanism. The output end of the box taking mechanism penetrates through the taking and placing platform and faces the output end of the box storing mechanism. The independently-arranged box storage mechanism is used for storing pizza boxes, so that the space utilization rate of the storage device and the auxiliary cabinet can be increased, when pizza containers are conveyed into the heating device through the second carrying mechanism to be heated, the box taking mechanism can take out the pizza boxes from the box storage mechanism and place the pizza boxes on the taking and placing platform, and after pizza baking is completed, the pizza boxes can be taken out from the box storage mechanism. The pizza container conveying device is simple in structure, and the space of the self-service pizza machine can be fully utilized.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of vending machine technology, and in particular to a pizza box dispensing device and a self-service pizza machine. Background Technology

[0002] Vending machines are commonly used equipment in commercial automation. They are not limited by time or location, save manpower, and facilitate transactions, representing a new form of commercial retail, often referred to as 24-hour mini-supermarkets. Furthermore, with market changes, vending machines have evolved into various styles, including those selling items such as pizzas.

[0003] The self-service pizza machine primarily places pizzas in heat-resistant aluminum pizza containers, which are then placed inside pizza boxes. Multiple pizza boxes are stored in a storage unit for refrigeration or freezing, thus maintaining the pizza quality over a long period. During use, a first conveying mechanism removes the pizza boxes from the storage unit and delivers them to an opening device. The opening device secures the pizza boxes, and a second conveying mechanism located beside the opening device removes the pizza containers from the pizza boxes and places them into a heating device for heating. After heating, the pizza containers are removed from the heating device and placed back into the pizza boxes, which are then delivered to the dispensing port.

[0004] Existing self-service pizza machines primarily place pizzas in heat-resistant aluminum pizza containers, which are then placed into pizza boxes. Multiple pizza boxes are then stored in a refrigerated storage unit. However, pizza boxes are typically larger than pizzas, requiring a significant amount of storage space and resulting in a limited number of pizzas that can be stored in the storage unit.

[0005] In view of this, a new technical solution is needed to solve the above-mentioned technical problems. Utility Model Content

[0006] In view of the shortcomings of the existing technology, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a pizza box dispensing device and a self-service pizza machine to solve the problems mentioned in the background art.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the first aspect of this utility model provides a pizza box dispensing device installed on the auxiliary cabinet of a self-service pizza machine. The device includes a box storage mechanism, a box retrieval mechanism, and a retrieval and placement platform. The retrieval and placement platform is installed on the auxiliary cabinet, the box storage mechanism is installed above the retrieval and placement platform, and the box retrieval mechanism is installed below the retrieval and placement platform. The output end of the box retrieval mechanism passes through the retrieval and placement platform and faces the output end of the box storage mechanism. When a pizza box needs to be picked up, the output end of the box retrieval mechanism extends to the output end of the box storage mechanism to fix the pizza box and then retracts to place the pizza box on the retrieval and placement platform.

[0008] In a further technical solution, the storage mechanism includes a box body, the bottom of which has an outlet for passing through a pizza box, a limiting member installed at the bottom of the box body, a first end of the limiting member being installed on the box body, and a second end of the limiting member being inclined toward the middle of the box body to limit the pizza box located inside the box body.

[0009] In a further technical solution, the limiting member includes a fixing part and a limiting part. The fixing part is installed on the box body, one end of the limiting part is connected to the fixing part, and the other end of the limiting part is inclined towards the middle of the box body.

[0010] In a further technical solution, the number of limiting members is four, and the second ends of the four limiting members are respectively inclined toward the middle of the box body.

[0011] In a further technical solution, an entrance for replenishing pizza boxes is opened on one side of the box, and a window for observing the number of pizza boxes inside the box is opened on another side of the box.

[0012] In a further technical solution, the box-retrieving mechanism includes a driving component and a fixing component. The driving component is installed on the auxiliary cabinet, and the fixing component is installed at the output end of the driving component. The driving component is used to drive the fixing component to move between the retrieval platform and the box-storage mechanism.

[0013] In a further technical solution, the fixing component includes an air source, an air pipe, and a suction cup. The suction cup is installed at the output end of the driving component, and the input end of the suction cup is connected to the air source through the air pipe.

[0014] In a further technical solution, the drive assembly includes a drive component and a mounting base. The mounting base is installed at the bottom of the sub-cabinet, the drive component is installed on the mounting base, and the fixing component is installed at the output end of the drive component.

[0015] In a further technical solution, the picking and placing platform is equipped with a limiting seat for limiting the position of the pizza box. The inner walls of the limiting seat form a limiting space for limiting the position of the pizza box. The picking and placing platform has a through groove for the output end of the picking mechanism, and the through groove is located within the limiting space.

[0016] The second aspect of this utility model provides a self-service pizza machine, including the pizza box dispensing device.

[0017] Compared with the prior art, this utility model brings the following technical effects:

[0018] The pizza box dispensing device of this utility model uses a separate storage mechanism to store pizza boxes, which increases the space utilization of the storage device and the auxiliary cabinet. When the pizza container is sent to the heating device for heating by the second conveying mechanism, the box retrieval mechanism can take the pizza box out of the storage mechanism and place it on the retrieval platform. After the pizza is baked, the second conveying mechanism sends the pizza container back into the pizza box to complete the processing. This setting has a simple structure and can make full use of the space of the self-service pizza machine.

[0019] The self-service pizza machine of this utility model includes all the technical features and effects of the pizza box dispensing device, and therefore will not be described in detail here. Attached Figure Description

[0020] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this utility model and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the pizza box dispensing device.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the first transport mechanism.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a self-service pizza machine.

[0024] Explanation of key component symbols:

[0025] 1. Secondary counter;

[0026] 2. Storage box mechanism; 21. Box body; 211. Exit; 212. Entrance; 22. Limiting component; 221. Fixing part; 222. Limiting part; 23. Window;

[0027] 3. Box-retrieving mechanism; 31. Drive assembly; 311. Drive component; 312. Mounting base; 32. Fixing assembly;

[0028] 4. Picking and placing platform; 41. Limiting seat; 411. Support rod; 412. Stop shaft; 42. Limiting space; 43. Through groove;

[0029] 5. Pizza box. Detailed Implementation

[0030] The embodiments of this utility model are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this utility model, and should not be construed as limiting this utility model.

[0031] In the description of this utility model, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "transverse", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this utility model.

[0032] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this utility model, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0033] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "joining," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model according to the specific circumstances.

[0034] In this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0035] Example 1

[0036] like Figure 1-3 As shown, a pizza box dispensing device is installed on the auxiliary cabinet 1 of the self-service pizza machine. It includes a box storage mechanism 2, a box retrieval mechanism 3, and a retrieval and placement platform 4. The retrieval and placement platform 4 is installed on the auxiliary cabinet 1. The box storage mechanism 2 is installed above the retrieval and placement platform 4. The box retrieval mechanism 3 is installed below the retrieval and placement platform 4. The output end of the box retrieval mechanism 3 passes through the retrieval and placement platform 4 and faces the output end of the box storage mechanism 2. When a pizza box 5 needs to be picked up, the output end of the box retrieval mechanism 3 extends to the output end of the box storage mechanism 2 to fix the pizza box 5 and then retracts to place the pizza box 5 on the retrieval and placement platform 4.

[0037] A separate storage mechanism 2 is used to store pizza boxes 5, which increases the space utilization of the storage device and the auxiliary cabinet 1. When the pizza container is sent to the heating device for heating by the second conveying mechanism, the box retrieval mechanism 3 can take the pizza box 5 out of the storage mechanism 2 and place it on the retrieval platform 4. After the pizza is baked, the second conveying mechanism sends the pizza container into the pizza box 5 and then exits the pizza box 5. The second conveying mechanism moves to the outside of the pizza box 5 and pushes the pizza box 5 to the outlet to complete the processing. This setup is simple in structure and can make full use of the space of the self-service pizza machine.

[0038] In a further specific embodiment, the storage mechanism 2 includes a box body 21, the bottom of the box body 21 has an outlet 211 for passing through the pizza box 5, a limiting member 22 is installed at the bottom of the box body 21, the first end of the limiting member 22 is installed on the box body 21, and the second end of the limiting member 22 is inclined toward the middle of the box body 21 to limit the pizza box 5 located inside the box body 21.

[0039] The pizza box 5 is limited by the limiting member 22, requiring a certain force to allow it to leave the box body 21 from the outlet 211. In a preferred embodiment, four limiting members 22 are used, with their second ends inclined towards the center of the box body 21. Two limiting members 22 are provided on each side of the box body 21, improving the limiting effect and ensuring balanced force distribution across the four limiting members 22, thus enhancing stability. It should be noted that the storage space within the box body 21 matches the shape of the pizza box 5. Specifically, when the pizza box 5 is rectangular, the corresponding storage space within the box body 21 is also rectangular; when the pizza box 5 is circular, the corresponding storage space within the box body 21 is also rectangular. Other cases will not be elaborated upon here.

[0040] In other specific embodiments, only one limiting member 22 may be provided. However, using only one limiting member 22 may result in a large force, which will increase the wear of the limiting member 22. When using four limiting members 22, one limiting member 22 may also be provided on each of the four sides of the box body 21.

[0041] In a further specific embodiment, the limiting member 22 includes a fixing part 221 and a limiting part 222. The fixing part 221 is installed on the box body 21, one end of the limiting part 222 is connected to the fixing part 221, and the other end of the limiting part 222 is inclined toward the middle of the box body 21.

[0042] It should be noted that the fixing part 221 and the limiting part 222 are integrally formed, and there is a certain angle between the limiting part 222 and the fixing part 221. Moreover, there is a certain elasticity between the two. When the box taking mechanism 3 takes out a pizza box 5, the bottom pizza box 5 will first enter the space between the four limiting parts 222. Under the influence of the elasticity of the four limiting parts 222, the bottom pizza box 5 will be squeezed upward back into the space between the four fixing parts 221.

[0043] In a further specific embodiment, one side of the box body 21 has an inlet 212 for replenishing the pizza boxes 5. The pizza boxes 5 can be replenished through the inlet 212. One side of the box body 21 has a window 23 for observing the number of pizza boxes 5 inside the box. The specific number of pizza boxes 5 can be observed through the window 23. At the same time, the number of windows 23 can be increased according to actual needs, that is, windows 23 can be set on all four sides of the box body 21. On the one hand, it is convenient to observe, and on the other hand, it reduces the weight of the box body 21 and reduces costs.

[0044] In a further specific embodiment, the box retrieval mechanism 3 includes a driving component 31 and a fixing component 32. The driving component 31 is installed on the auxiliary cabinet 1, and the fixing component 32 is installed at the output end of the driving component 31. The driving component 31 is used to drive the fixing component 32 to move between the retrieval platform 4 and the box storage mechanism 2.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the drive assembly 31 includes a drive element 311 and a mounting base 312. The mounting base 312 is mounted on the bottom of the sub-cabinet 1, the drive element 311 is mounted on the mounting base 312, and the fixing assembly 32 is mounted on the output end of the drive element 311. In other specific embodiments, the mounting base 312 may also be mounted on the side of the sub-cabinet 1.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the fixing component 32 includes an air source, an air tube, and a suction cup. The suction cup is mounted on the output end of the driving component 31, and the input end of the suction cup is connected to the air source through the air tube. This setup uses the air source to remove air between the suction cup and the pizza box 5, creating a negative pressure state to fix the pizza box 5, thereby enabling the box removal action. It should be noted that the air source and suction tube in this embodiment are commonly used components in other fields, and therefore are hidden in the figures and will not be described further.

[0047] In a further specific embodiment, the pick-up and place platform 4 is equipped with a limiting seat 41 for limiting the position of the pizza box 5. A limiting space 42 for limiting the position of the pizza box 5 is formed between the inner walls of the limiting seat 41. The pick-up and place platform 4 has a through groove 43 for the output end of the box picking mechanism 3. The through groove 43 is located within the limiting space 42.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the inner wall size of the limiting seat 41 matches the size of the side wall of the pizza box 5. A support rod 411 for receiving the pizza box 5 is provided in the limiting space 42, and at least one stop shaft 412 is installed on the support rod 411. The bottom of the pizza box 5 is supported by the support rod 411 and the stop shaft 412, respectively. The stop shaft 412 can also reduce the friction between the pizza box 5 and the support rod 411, making it easier for the second conveying mechanism to push the pizza box 5 to the delivery port.

[0049] Driven by the drive unit 311, the suction cup moves upward. When the suction cup approaches the outlet 211 of the box 21 and comes into contact with the pizza box 5 inside the box 21, the air source is activated to remove the air between the suction cup and the pizza box 5, creating a negative pressure state between them. The drive unit 311 then moves the suction cup downward, positioning the pizza box 5 on the limiting seat 41. The limiting seat 41 limits the pizza box 5. The air source then injects air into the suction cup, filling the space between the suction cup and the pizza box 5 with air, causing them to separate and completing the pizza box removal action.

[0050] Example 2

[0051] like Figure 1-3 As shown, a self-service pizza machine includes the pizza box dispensing device. This embodiment includes all the technical features and effects of Embodiment 1, and therefore will not be repeated.

[0052] The terms "specific example" or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this utility model. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0053] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments, as long as they meet the purpose of the present invention, and all such changes should be within the scope of protection claimed by the present invention. For example, different combinations of specific embodiments and different combinations of distinguishing technical features.

Claims

1. A pizza box dispensing device, installed in the auxiliary cabinet (1) of a self-service pizza machine, characterized in that: The system includes a box storage mechanism (2), a box retrieval mechanism (3), and a retrieval and placement platform (4). The retrieval and placement platform (4) is installed on the auxiliary cabinet (1). The box storage mechanism (2) is installed above the retrieval and placement platform (4). The box retrieval mechanism (3) is installed below the retrieval and placement platform (4). The output end of the box retrieval mechanism (3) passes through the retrieval and placement platform (4) and faces the output end of the box storage mechanism (2). When it is necessary to pick up the pizza box (5), the output end of the box retrieval mechanism (3) extends to the output end of the box storage mechanism (2) to fix the pizza box (5) and retracts to place the pizza box (5) on the retrieval and placement platform (4).

2. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The storage mechanism (2) includes a box body (21), the bottom of which has an outlet (211) for passing through the pizza box (5). A limiting member (22) is installed at the bottom of the box body (21). The first end of the limiting member (22) is installed on the box body (21), and the second end of the limiting member (22) is inclined toward the middle of the box body (21) to limit the pizza box (5) located inside the box body (21).

3. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The limiting member (22) includes a fixing part (221) and a limiting part (222). The fixing part (221) is installed on the box body (21). One end of the limiting part (222) is connected to the fixing part (221), and the other end of the limiting part (222) is inclined toward the middle of the box body (21).

4. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The number of the limiting members (22) is four, and the second ends of the four limiting members (22) are respectively inclined toward the middle of the box body (21).

5. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 2, characterized in that: The box (21) has an entrance (212) on one side for replenishing pizza boxes (5) and a window (23) on one side for observing the number of pizza boxes (5) inside.

6. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The box retrieval mechanism (3) includes a drive component (31) and a fixing component (32). The drive component (31) is installed on the auxiliary cabinet (1), and the fixing component (32) is installed at the output end of the drive component (31). The drive component (31) is used to drive the fixing component (32) to move between the retrieval platform (4) and the box storage mechanism (2).

7. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The fixing component (32) includes an air source, an air pipe and a suction cup. The suction cup is installed at the output end of the driving component (31), and the input end of the suction cup is connected to the air source through the air pipe.

8. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 6, characterized in that: The drive assembly (31) includes a drive element (311) and a mounting base (312). The mounting base (312) is installed at the bottom of the sub-cabinet (1), the drive element (311) is installed on the mounting base (312), and the fixing assembly (32) is installed at the output end of the drive element (311).

9. The pizza box dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The pick-and-place platform (4) is equipped with a limiting seat (41) for limiting the position of the pizza box (5). A limiting space (42) for limiting the position of the pizza box (5) is formed between the inner walls of the limiting seat (41). The pick-and-place platform (4) has a through groove (43) for passing through the output end of the box picking mechanism (3). The through groove (43) is located in the limiting space (42).

10. A self-service pizza machine, characterized in that: Includes the pizza box dispensing device according to any one of claims 1-9.