Modular smart fresh food storage cabinet

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of refrigerator, concretely relates to a modularization intelligent fresh food storage cabinet. The scheme of the present application can accurately identify the preset temperature and humidity parameters corresponding to the food material through the meshing of the rack and the gear encoder at different positions on the food label card, provides suitable storage environment for different food materials, effectively guarantees the freshness and quality of the food material, when the food label card is pulled out, the reset structure makes the gear encoder quickly recover to the initial position, and the reset signal is transmitted to the controller, the storage compartment is timely adjusted to the default temperature, avoids the energy waste, and improves the energy utilization efficiency. Compared with the complex electronic identification system such as RFID radio frequency identification and image recognition, the use of electronic components is greatly reduced, expensive sensors and complex algorithm programs are not needed, and the hardware procurement cost and software development cost are reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of refrigerator technology, specifically to a modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet. Background Technology

[0002] As people's living standards improve, their demands for the freshness and quality of fresh food are becoming increasingly stringent, leading to the emergence of intelligent fresh food storage cabinets. To achieve precise temperature and humidity control for different types of food, most existing intelligent fresh food storage cabinets employ complex electronic identification technologies, such as RFID and image recognition systems. These systems not only require a large number of electronic components, sensors, and complex algorithms, resulting in high production costs, but also have complex structures, making maintenance difficult and costly.

[0003] Furthermore, some fresh food storage cabinets that use simple identification methods struggle to accurately match the temperature and humidity parameters required for different ingredients, failing to meet diverse storage needs. For example, some storage cabinets that rely solely on simple temperature sensors for adjustment cannot provide targeted temperature and humidity control based on the characteristics of different ingredients, easily leading to spoilage and waste.

[0004] Therefore, how to provide a low-cost and simple implementation method to accurately identify ingredients and match corresponding temperature and humidity parameters has become a pressing technical problem to be solved in the field of smart fresh food storage cabinets. Utility Model Content

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems, this utility model discloses a modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet, including a food identification component, wherein the food identification component comprises:

[0006] The food label card has a fixed card slot in each food storage compartment. The food label card is marked with basic classification information. Different food label cards have racks at different positions on one side. A gear encoder is set in the card slot corresponding to the side of the food label card. When the racks at different positions on different food label cards are inserted into the card slot, the racks on the food label card side mesh with the gear encoder. The amount of rotation of the gear encoder is different when the racks at different positions are inserted, and it corresponds to the preset temperature and humidity parameters.

[0007] The gear encoder is equipped with a reset structure. When the food label card is removed from the card slot, the reset structure restores the gear encoder to its initial position. The gear encoder transmits a reset signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller, and the fresh food storage cabinet controller adjusts the food storage compartment to the default temperature according to the reset signal.

[0008] It also includes a weight sensor auxiliary identification component, which includes a zoned weight sensor. The zoned weight sensor is used to detect the storage location of the food. When a specific weight of food is placed in, the weight sensor outputs an electrical signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller to activate the humidification or dehumidification function of the corresponding food storage compartment.

[0009] The gear encoder is electrically connected to the fresh food storage cabinet controller, converting the rotation amount into an electrical signal and transmitting it to the fresh food storage cabinet controller. The fresh food storage cabinet controller controls the temperature and humidity of the corresponding food storage compartment according to a preset correspondence.

[0010] The zoned weight sensors are evenly distributed at the bottom of the food storage compartment.

[0011] The reset structure is an elastic reset member installed on the gear encoder. When the food label card is pulled out and the rack and gear encoder disengage, the elastic reset member drives the gear encoder to rotate, restoring it to its initial position.

[0012] The elastic reset component is a torsion spring, which is sleeved on the rotating shaft of the gear encoder, with one end fixed to the gear encoder and the other end fixed to the inner wall of the slot.

[0013] This application's solution utilizes the meshing of racks and pinions at different positions on the food label with a gear encoder to accurately identify the preset temperature and humidity parameters corresponding to the ingredients, providing suitable storage environments for different ingredients and effectively ensuring their freshness and quality. When the food label is removed, a reset structure causes the gear encoder to quickly return to its initial position and transmits a reset signal to the controller, promptly adjusting the storage compartment to the default temperature, avoiding energy waste and improving energy efficiency. Compared to complex electronic identification systems such as RFID and image recognition, this solution significantly reduces the use of electronic components, eliminating the need for expensive sensors and complex algorithms, thus lowering hardware procurement and software development costs. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet in the embodiments of this application;

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the interaction between the food label card and the card slot in an embodiment of this application;

[0016] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle;

[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the distribution of weight sensors at the bottom of the food storage compartment in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0018] To make the utility model's objectives, features, and advantages more apparent and understandable, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the embodiments described below are only some embodiments of the utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the utility model. The principles and features of the utility model will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The examples given are only for explaining the utility model and are not intended to limit its scope.

[0019] The term "comprising" and other similar expressions used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this utility model are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such as a process, method, system, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units but is not limited to the listed steps or units.

[0020] Example 1: As Figure 1-2 As shown, a modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet includes a food identification component, which comprises:

[0021] Food label card 1, each food storage compartment 2 is provided with a fixed card slot 3, the food label card 1 is marked with basic classification information, different positions of rack 6 are provided on one side of different food label cards 1, and a gear encoder 7 is provided in the card slot 3 corresponding to one side of the food label card 1. In specific implementation, the rack 6 on the food label card 1 can be set at different height positions, and the height position is within a certain range to ensure that it can mesh with the gear encoder 7. When the rack 6 at different positions on different food label cards 1 is inserted into the card slot 3, the rack 6 on the side of the food label card 1 meshes with the gear encoder 7. The rotation amount of the gear encoder 7 is different when the rack 6 at different positions is inserted, and corresponds to the preset temperature and humidity parameters.

[0022] The gear encoder 7 is equipped with a reset structure. When the food label card 1 is pulled out of the card slot 3, the reset structure restores the gear encoder 7 to its initial position. The gear encoder 7 transmits a reset signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller, and the fresh food storage cabinet controller adjusts the food storage compartment 2 to the default temperature according to the reset signal.

[0023] The gear encoder 7 is electrically connected to the fresh food storage cabinet controller, converting the rotation amount into an electrical signal and transmitting it to the fresh food storage cabinet controller. The fresh food storage cabinet controller controls the temperature and humidity of the corresponding food storage compartment 2 according to the preset correspondence.

[0024] The food label card 1 in this embodiment is marked with basic classification information, such as the type of food and the recommended freezing temperature. This information helps users and storage cabinets identify the basic attributes of the food.

[0025] Different food label cards 1 have toothed strips (6) at different positions on one side. The difference in the length of the toothed strips is the key to achieving different temperature and humidity parameters for different ingredients. The length of the toothed strips on the label card corresponding to each ingredient is specific.

[0026] Each food storage compartment 2 is equipped with a fixed card slot 3. The card slot 3 provides a position for inserting food label cards 1 to ensure that the label cards can accurately mate with the gear encoder 7.

[0027] When food label 1 is inserted into the slot, the rack on the label engages with the gear encoder 7. Because different label cards have different rack lengths, the amount of rotation of the gear encoder will also vary when inserted.

[0028] The gear encoder 7 is electrically connected to the fresh food storage cabinet controller, converting the rotation amount into an electrical signal and transmitting it to the controller. The controller is pre-set with temperature and humidity parameters corresponding to different rotation amounts. Based on the received electrical signal, the controller can control the temperature and humidity of the corresponding food storage compartment to meet the storage requirements of that food.

[0029] The gear encoder is equipped with a reset mechanism. When the food label card 1 is removed from the card slot, the reset mechanism will return the gear encoder 7 to its initial position.

[0030] After the gear encoder 7 returns to its initial position, it sends a reset signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller. Upon receiving the reset signal, the controller adjusts the temperature of the food storage compartment to the default temperature, preparing it for storing different foods next time.

[0031] In one specific embodiment, the food label card 1 can be a plastic card similar in size to a business card. The material can be PVC plastic. It has toothed strips at different positions on one side. The module of the toothed strips can be 0.5-1mm, and the length can be set to 10-30mm depending on the different temperature and humidity parameters required.

[0032] The gear encoder can be the GE series TMR gear encoder from Multidimensional Technology. This encoder is a magnetic induction incremental encoder using a tunnel magnetoresistive (TMR) sensor, featuring high sensitivity, high-speed response, high precision, and high reliability. It can measure small module gears (0.3-1 module) and matches well with the rack module on food label cards. The output signal is an orthogonal square wave signal or a sine / cosine signal (A, B), an origin signal (Z), and corresponding differential signals (A-, B-, Z-), facilitating electrical connection with the fresh food storage cabinet controller to convert rotational speed into electrical signals for transmission. Internally equipped with protection circuitry and fully potted, it effectively enhances anti-interference and anti-static capabilities, adapting to the working environment of the fresh food storage cabinet.

[0033] Example 2: Figure 2-3 As shown, the reset structure is an elastic reset member 8 set on the gear encoder 7. When the food label card 1 is pulled out and the rack 6 disengages from the gear encoder 7, the elastic reset member 8 drives the gear encoder 7 to rotate, so that it returns to the initial position.

[0034] The elastic reset element 8 is a torsion spring, which is sleeved on the rotating shaft 9 of the gear encoder 7, with one end fixed to the gear encoder 7 and the other end fixed to the inner wall of the slot 3.

[0035] When the food label card 1 is inserted into the card slot 3, the rack 6 on one side of the label card meshes with the gear encoder 7. As the rack is inserted to a different length, the gear encoder 7 rotates at a corresponding angle, records the amount of rotation corresponding to the rack length, and converts the amount of rotation into an electrical signal and transmits it to the fresh food storage cabinet controller. The controller controls the temperature and humidity of the corresponding food storage compartment 2 according to the preset correspondence.

[0036] When the food label card 1 is removed from the slot 3, the rack 6 disengages from the gear encoder 7. At this time, the torsion spring sleeved on the rotating shaft 9, which had stored elastic potential energy due to previous torsion, releases its energy, driving the gear encoder 7 to rotate and return it to its initial position. After the gear encoder 7 returns to its initial position, it transmits a reset signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller. The controller then adjusts the food storage compartment 2 to the default temperature based on the reset signal.

[0037] Example 3: The storage cabinet also includes a weight sensor auxiliary identification component, which includes a zoned weight sensor 10. The zoned weight sensor 10 is used to detect the storage location of food. When a specific weight of food is placed in, the weight sensor 10 outputs an electrical signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller to activate the humidification or dehumidification function of the corresponding food storage compartment 2.

[0038] like Figure 4As shown, the zoned weight sensors 10 are evenly distributed at the bottom of the food storage compartment 2. When food of a specific weight is placed in, the weight sensors 10 can sense the weight change and convert it into an electrical signal. For example, different types of fresh food may have different weight ranges. When a specific weight of food (such as a certain weight of meat, vegetables, etc.) is placed in the compartment, the weight sensors 10 will output a corresponding electrical signal.

[0039] The electrical signal output by the weight sensor 10 is transmitted to the fresh food storage cabinet controller. After receiving the electrical signal, the controller determines, based on preset logic and parameters, whether to activate the humidification or dehumidification function of the corresponding food storage compartment 2. For example, for certain weights of food that require high humidity, the controller will activate the humidifier to increase the humidity in the compartment after it is detected that the food has been placed inside; while for certain weights of food that are easily affected by moisture, the controller will activate the dehumidifier to reduce the humidity in the compartment, in order to ensure the freshness and quality of the food.

[0040] The zoned weight sensors 10 are evenly distributed at the bottom of the food storage compartment 2. This ensures that the weight and position information of the food can be accurately detected throughout the entire bottom area of ​​the food storage compartment 2. For example, if the weight sensors are concentrated in one part of the bottom of the compartment, the weight and position of the food in other areas may not be accurately detected, while even distribution allows for a more comprehensive and accurate perception of the food's placement.

[0041] The technical means disclosed in this utility model are not limited to those disclosed in the above embodiments, but also include technical solutions composed of any combination of the above technical features. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principle of this utility model, and these improvements and modifications are also considered within the scope of protection of this utility model.

Claims

1. A modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet, characterized in that, Includes a food ingredient recognition component, the food ingredient recognition component comprising: The food label card has a fixed card slot in each food storage compartment. The food label card is marked with basic classification information. Different food label cards have racks at different positions on one side. A gear encoder is set in the card slot corresponding to the side of the food label card. When the racks at different positions on different food label cards are inserted into the card slot, the racks on the food label card side mesh with the gear encoder. The amount of rotation of the gear encoder is different when the racks at different positions are inserted, and it corresponds to the preset temperature and humidity parameters. The gear encoder is equipped with a reset structure. When the food label card is removed from the card slot, the reset structure restores the gear encoder to its initial position. The gear encoder transmits a reset signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller, and the fresh food storage cabinet controller adjusts the food storage compartment to the default temperature according to the reset signal.

2. The modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a weight sensor auxiliary identification component, which includes a zoned weight sensor. The zoned weight sensor is used to detect the storage location of the food. When a specific weight of food is placed in, the weight sensor outputs an electrical signal to the fresh food storage cabinet controller to activate the humidification or dehumidification function of the corresponding food storage compartment.

3. The modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gear encoder is electrically connected to the fresh food storage cabinet controller, converting the rotation amount into an electrical signal and transmitting it to the fresh food storage cabinet controller. The fresh food storage cabinet controller controls the temperature and humidity of the corresponding food storage compartment according to a preset correspondence.

4. The modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet according to claim 2, characterized in that, The zoned weight sensors are evenly distributed at the bottom of the food storage compartment.

5. The modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reset structure is an elastic reset member installed on the gear encoder. When the food label card is pulled out and the rack and gear encoder disengage, the elastic reset member drives the gear encoder to rotate, restoring it to its initial position.

6. The modular intelligent fresh food storage cabinet according to claim 5, characterized in that, The elastic reset component is a torsion spring, which is sleeved on the rotating shaft of the gear encoder, with one end fixed to the gear encoder and the other end fixed to the inner wall of the slot.

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