Paper cup dispensing apparatus

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of material conveying, in particular to a paper cup feeding device. The paper cup feeding device comprises a feeding module, a conveying module, a buffer module and a cup separating and feeding module; the conveying module comprises a first conveying mechanism, a distance changing mechanism and a blowing mechanism, the input end of the first conveying mechanism is connected to the output end of the feeding module, and the distance changing mechanism is arranged on one side of the first conveying mechanism along a second direction; the input end of the blowing mechanism is connected to the output end of the first conveying mechanism; the buffer module is arranged below the output end of the conveying module, and the buffer module is provided with a plurality of interval buffer channels; the cup separating and feeding module is arranged below the buffer channels, and the cup separating and feeding module comprises a stop mechanism and a pushing mechanism; the stop mechanism can stop the last paper cup above the lowermost paper cup of the buffer module along a height direction, and the pushing mechanism can push the lowermost paper cup downward along the height direction to realize automatic feeding of the paper cup, so that the production efficiency is improved and the cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of material conveying technology, and in particular to a paper cup dispensing device. Background Technology

[0002] In the production of cup-packaged milk tea, stacked paper cups need to be separated, placed one by one, and then a milk tea packet is added to each cup. Finally, the lid is placed on the cup to seal it. In related technologies, paper cups are typically placed one by one onto a conveyor belt manually. This method requires a large number of personnel, is labor-intensive, has low automation, and results in low production efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a paper cup dispensing device to achieve automated paper cup dispensing and improve production efficiency.

[0004] A paper cup dispensing device includes a feeding module, a conveying module, a buffer module, and a cup dispensing module. The feeding module is used to feed paper cups. The conveying module includes a first conveying mechanism, a pitch-changing mechanism, and an air supply mechanism. The input end of the first conveying mechanism is connected to the output end of the feeding module. The first conveying mechanism is used to convey the paper cups along a first direction. The pitch-changing mechanism is located on one side of the first conveying mechanism along a second direction and is used to increase the distance between the bottoms of any two adjacent paper cups in the paper cups. The input end of the air supply mechanism is connected to the output end of the first conveying mechanism and can... The paper cup is blown along the first direction to the output end of the conveying module; the buffer module is located below the output end of the conveying module, and the buffer module has multiple buffer channels spaced apart, each buffer channel being used to receive the paper cup output by the conveying module; the cup dispensing module is located below the buffer channels, and the cup dispensing module includes a stop mechanism and a push mechanism; the stop mechanism can stop the paper cup above the paper cup located at the bottom of the buffer module along the height direction, and the push mechanism can push the bottom paper cup downwards along the height direction.

[0005] Understandably, the feeding module feeds batches of paper cups and then conveys them one by one through the conveying module. The conveying module has a first conveying mechanism that transports the paper cups along a first direction. During transport, a pitch-changing mechanism increases the distance between the bottoms of any two adjacent paper cups, loosening the cups. An air-blowing mechanism then blows the cups one by one to the output end of the conveying module, where they fall into a buffer channel. This buffer channel helps to improve the efficiency of paper cup transfer. The cup dispensing module dispenses the paper cups one by one from the buffer channel. A stop mechanism blocks the cup above the bottommost cup in the buffer channel, while a pushing mechanism pushes the bottommost cup, thus achieving automated, sequential dispensing of the paper cups, improving production efficiency and reducing costs.

[0006] In one embodiment, the feeding module includes a feeding platform, a conveyor, and a limiting mechanism; the input end of the conveyor is connected to the feeding platform, the conveyor is inclined toward the conveying module along the height direction relative to the feeding platform, and the output end of the conveyor is provided with the limiting mechanism, which is movable to release the preceding paper cup chop in any two adjacent paper cup chops and prevent the following paper cup chop from being blocked.

[0007] In one embodiment, the limiting mechanism includes a rotating arm and a stop bar connected to the rotating arm, the stop bar being angled relative to the rotating arm; the stop bar extends along the width direction of the conveyor, and the rotating arm is mounted on at least one side along the width direction of the conveyor; the rotating arm is provided with a pivot extending along the width direction of the conveyor, and the rotating arm is capable of rotating around the pivot to drive the stop bar to release the preceding paper cup chop in any two adjacent paper cup chops while blocking the following paper cup chop.

[0008] In one embodiment, at least two stop bars are provided, and the at least two stop bars are spaced apart and located on both sides of the rotating shaft.

[0009] In one embodiment, the conveyor has a first discharge port and a second discharge port spaced apart at its output end; the opening of the conveyor toward the conveying module forms the second discharge port; the first discharge port is located between the loading platform and the second discharge port, and a dividing plate is movably connected to the first discharge port, the dividing plate being able to open or close relative to the first discharge port by its own movement.

[0010] Along the inclined direction of the conveyor, at least one of the limiting mechanisms is provided on the side of the first discharge port near the loading platform, and at least one of the limiting mechanisms is provided between the first discharge port and the second discharge port;

[0011] The first conveying mechanism is provided in at least two, and the at least two first conveying mechanisms are arranged side by side along the second direction; the input end of at least one first conveying mechanism is located below the first discharge port, and the input end of at least another first conveying mechanism is located below the second discharge port.

[0012] In one embodiment, the pitch mechanism includes a pitch rod that extends along the first direction and is rotatable about its own axis. The surface of the pitch rod is provided with a groove that extends spirally along its own axis. The groove wall is able to contact the edge of the rim of the paper cup. The rotation of the pitch rod increases the distance between any two adjacent bottoms of the paper cup.

[0013] In one embodiment, the air supply mechanism includes a first air supply duct and a second air supply duct connected to the first air supply duct. The first air supply duct extends along a first direction, and the second air supply duct is set at an angle to the first air supply duct. The input end of the first air supply duct is connected to the output end of the first conveying mechanism.

[0014] In one embodiment, the conveying module further includes a sliding cup-throwing mechanism, which has a first conveying pipe and a second conveying pipe. The first conveying pipe and the second conveying pipe extend along the first direction. The input end of the first conveying pipe is connected to the output end of the first air supply pipe, and the second conveying pipe is sleeved on the first conveying pipe and can move along the first direction.

[0015] In one embodiment, the conveying module further includes a guide structure connected to the output end of the second conveying pipe and forming a guide channel for guiding the paper cup to move to the buffer channel.

[0016] In one embodiment, the guide structure includes a plurality of first guide ribs, each of the first guide ribs being connected to the second conveying pipe and extending from the second conveying pipe toward the buffer channel, the plurality of first guide ribs being spaced apart circumferentially along the second conveying pipe to form the guide channel;

[0017] The guide structure also includes a plurality of fixed ribs, which are spaced apart along the extension direction of the first guide ribs. Each fixed rib is connected to the plurality of the first guide ribs and extends circumferentially along the second conveying pipe.

[0018] In one embodiment, the cache module is provided with a plurality of spaced second guide ribs, which surround the cache channel and each second guide rib extends along the height direction.

[0019] In one embodiment, the buffer module further includes a retaining cup mechanism, which includes a rotating rod and a stop portion connected to the rotating rod. The rotating rod extends along the first direction and is rotatable about its own axis to drive the stop portion to extend into or out of the buffer channel.

[0020] In one embodiment, along the first direction, a plurality of the cache channels are arranged side by side to form a cache group;

[0021] Along the second direction, there are at least two cache groups, and the at least two cache groups are spaced apart; and / or, along the height direction, there are multiple cache groups, any two adjacent cache groups are connected, and any two adjacent cache channels are connected.

[0022] In one embodiment, the stopping mechanism includes a first baffle and a second baffle connected to the first baffle. The first baffle and the second baffle extend along the first direction and are spaced apart along the second direction. Along the height direction, the second baffle is located below the first baffle. The second baffle is used to stop the paper cup located at the bottommost position in the buffer module. The first baffle is used to stop the paper cup located above the paper cup located at the bottommost position in the buffer module along the height direction. The first baffle and the second baffle can move synchronously along the second direction.

[0023] In one embodiment, the pushing mechanism is provided with a pushing part; along the height direction, the pushing part is disposed between the first baffle and the second baffle, and the projection of the pushing part overlaps with that of the first baffle; along the second direction, the pushing part is spaced apart from the second baffle; the pushing part can move to between the two adjacent paper cups at the bottom of the buffer channel, and move along the height direction to push the bottom paper cup downward. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] Figure 1 A perspective view of the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0026] Figure 2 A front view of the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0027] Figure 3 A top view of the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0028] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the feeding module in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0029] Figure 5 A partial structural diagram of the conveying module at the first conveying mechanism in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0030] Figure 6 A partial structural diagram of the conveying module at the air supply mechanism in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0031] Figure 7 This is a partial enlarged view of the conveying module at the air supply mechanism in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0032] Figure 8 A partial top view of the conveying module at the air supply mechanism in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0033] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the buffer module in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0034] Figure 10 A partial structural diagram of the buffer module in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application;

[0035] Figure 11 This is a side view of the cup dispensing module in the paper cup dispensing device provided in this application.

[0036] Reference numerals: 100, Paper cup dispensing device; 10, Feeding module; 11, Feeding platform; 12, Conveyor; 121, First discharge port; 122, Second discharge port; 123, Divider plate; 13, Limiting mechanism; 131, Rotating arm; 132, Stop bar; 133, Limiting drive component; 20, Conveying module; 21, First conveying mechanism; 22, Pitch changing mechanism; 221, Pitch changing rod; 222, Pitch changing drive component; 23, Air supply mechanism; 231, First air supply duct; 232, Second air supply duct; 24, Sliding cup dispensing mechanism; 241, First conveying duct; 242, Second conveying duct. 243. Pipe; 244. Moving slide; 245. Guide rail; 246. Sliding drive component; 25. Guide structure; 251. First guide rib; 252. Fixed rib; 26. Guide rod; 30. Buffer module; 301. Buffer channel; 31. Second guide rib; 32. Cup stop mechanism; 321. Rotating rod; 322. Stop part; 3221. First stop block; 3222. Connecting block; 323. First connecting component; 324. Second connecting component; 40. Cup dispensing module; 41. Stop mechanism; 411. Stop drive component; 42. Pushing mechanism; 421. Push drive component. Detailed Implementation

[0037] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0038] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to," "set on," or "properly placed on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intermediate component. When a component is considered to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intermediate component present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application's specification are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0039] 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 at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0040] In this application, unless otherwise expressly 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 and the second feature are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates 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 indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0041] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used in this application includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0042] Please see Figures 1 to 11 This application provides a paper cup dispensing device 100, which includes a feeding module 10, a conveying module 20, a buffer module 30, and a cup dispensing module 40. The feeding module 10 is used to feed paper cup pieces, which are then conveyed by the conveying module 20 and buffered in the buffer module 30. The cup dispensing module 40 then dispenses the paper cups one by one, thereby automating the paper cup dispensing process.

[0043] In one embodiment, the conveying module 20 includes a first conveying mechanism 21, the input end of which is connected to the output end of the feeding module 10. The feeding module 10 is used to output paper cup pieces to the first conveying mechanism 21, and the first conveying mechanism 21 conveys the paper cup pieces along a first direction.

[0044] Furthermore, the conveying module 20 also includes a pitch-changing mechanism 22, which is located on one side of the first conveying mechanism 21 along the second direction. The pitch-changing mechanism 22 is used to increase the distance between the bottoms of any two adjacent paper cups in the paper cup chopper, so as to reduce the force that tightly presses two adjacent paper cups together in the paper cup chopper, and loosen the two adjacent paper cups to facilitate the subsequent buffering of multiple paper cups.

[0045] Furthermore, the conveying module 20 also includes an air supply mechanism 23. The input end of the air supply mechanism 23 is connected to the output end of the first conveying mechanism 21, and can blow the paper cups along the first direction to the output end of the conveying module 20, so as to further increase the distance between two adjacent paper cups, so that the paper cups in the paper cup chopper are separated into individual paper cups, which is conducive to the paper cups being put into the buffer module 30 one by one.

[0046] In one embodiment, the buffer module 30 is located below the output end of the conveying module 20. The buffer module 30 has a plurality of buffer channels 301 spaced apart. Each buffer channel 301 is used to receive the paper cups output by the conveying module 20, so that multiple paper cups can be temporarily stored in the buffer channel 301.

[0047] In some embodiments, the cup dispensing module 40 is located below the buffer channel 301 to dispense multiple paper cups in the buffer channel one by one, starting from the bottommost paper cup.

[0048] Specifically, the cup dispensing module 40 includes a stop mechanism 41 and a push mechanism 42. The stop mechanism 41 can stop the paper cup above the bottommost paper cup in the buffer module 30 along the height direction, and the push mechanism 42 can push the bottommost paper cup downwards to dispense the paper cups individually. When no paper cups need to be dispensed, the stop mechanism 41 can stop the bottommost paper cup in the buffer module 30. It is through the switching of the stop mechanism 41 in stopping the paper cups, in conjunction with the activity of the push mechanism 42, that the individual dispensing of paper cups is achieved.

[0049] In summary, through the cooperation of the feeding module 10, conveying module 20, buffering module 30 and cup dispensing module 40, the paper cup feeding, conveying, buffering and dispensing processes are automated, which helps to improve production efficiency and reduce labor costs.

[0050] For ease of explanation, the length direction of the first conveying mechanism 21 is defined as the first direction, the width direction of the first conveying mechanism 21 is defined as the second direction, and the first direction is used as the x-axis, the second direction as the y-axis, and the height direction as the z-axis for explanation.

[0051] First, let’s explain the feeding module 10.

[0052] like Figure 4 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the feeding module 10 includes a feeding platform 11, a conveyor 12, and a limiting mechanism 13. The input end of the conveyor 12 is connected to the feeding platform 11, and the conveyor 12 is inclined towards the conveying module 20 along the height direction relative to the feeding platform 11. In this way, after multiple paper cup pieces are fed on the feeding platform 11, they can roll down the inclined conveyor 12 to the conveying module 20 under the action of gravity. The output end of the conveyor 12 is provided with a limiting mechanism 13. The limiting mechanism 13 can be moved to release the preceding paper cup piece from any two adjacent paper cup pieces and prevent the following paper cup piece from being blocked, so that the paper cup pieces can be released one by one to the first conveying mechanism 21, avoiding interference between the paper cup pieces, and enabling the first conveying mechanism 21 to convey the paper cup pieces one by one. Here, the preceding paper cup piece refers to the paper cup piece that is relatively close to the first conveying mechanism 21, and the following paper cup piece refers to the paper cup piece that is relatively close to the feeding platform 11.

[0053] like Figure 4 In a specific embodiment, the limiting mechanism 13 includes a rotating arm 131 and a stop rod 132 connected to the rotating arm 131. The stop rod 132 is angled to the rotating arm 131. The stop rod 132 extends along the width direction of the conveyor channel 12. The rotating arm 131 is installed on at least one side along the width direction of the conveyor channel 12. The rotating arm 131 has a rotating shaft extending along the width direction of the conveyor channel 12. The rotating arm 131 can rotate around the rotating shaft to drive the stop rod 132 to release the first paper cup chop of any two adjacent paper cup chops while stopping the second paper cup chop. The width direction of the conveyor channel 12 is parallel to the first direction. Thus, by rotating the rotating arm 131, the stop rod 132 swings back and forth, thereby realizing that the stop rod 132 releases the first paper cup chop of any two adjacent paper cup chops while stopping the second paper cup chop, which is simple to operate.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, in a specific embodiment, at least two stop bars 132 are provided, and the at least two stop bars 132 are spaced apart and disposed on both sides of the rotating shaft. In this way, the stop bar 132 on one side of the rotating shaft can release the first paper cup chop in any two adjacent paper cup chops, while the stop bar 132 on the other side of the rotating shaft can stop the second paper cup chop in any two adjacent paper cup chops, thereby improving the stopping effect.

[0055] like Figure 4 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the limiting mechanism 13 is provided with a limiting drive member 133, which provides power for the rotation of the rotating arm 131 around the rotating shaft. For example, the limiting drive member 133 can be a cylinder, which is connected to the end of the rotating arm 131 located on one side of the rotating shaft. The movement of the cylinder's push rod can drive the end of the rotating arm 131 to swing, thereby driving the rotating arm 131 to rotate around the rotating shaft. In other embodiments, the limiting drive member 133 can also be a hydraulic cylinder, an electric push rod, etc.

[0056] like Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, in a specific embodiment, the conveyor 12 has a first discharge port 121 and a second discharge port 122 spaced apart at its output end; the opening of the conveyor 12 toward the conveying module 20 forms the second discharge port 122; the first discharge port 121 is located between the loading platform 11 and the second discharge port 122, and a guide plate 123 is movably connected to the first discharge port 121, the guide plate 123 opening or closing relative to the first discharge port 121 by its own movement. At least two first conveying mechanisms 21 are provided, and at least two first conveying mechanisms 21 are arranged side-by-side along a second direction; the input end of at least one first conveying mechanism 21 is located below the first discharge port 121, and the input end of at least another first conveying mechanism 21 is located below the second discharge port 122. Thus, when the guide plate 123 is open relative to the first discharge port 121, the paper cup pieces can fall from the first discharge port 121 to the first conveying mechanism 21 located below the first discharge port 121; when the guide plate 123 is closed relative to the first discharge port 121, the paper cup pieces roll to the second discharge port 122, and the second discharge port 122 outputs the paper cup pieces to the first conveying mechanism 21 located below the second discharge port 122. The arrangement of the first discharge port 121 and the second discharge port 122 allows at least two first conveying mechanisms 21 to convey the paper cup pieces, thereby improving the efficiency of paper cup piece output and conveying. Simultaneously, switching between outputting the paper cup pieces from the first discharge port 121 and the second discharge port 122 by opening and closing the guide plate 123 simplifies operation.

[0057] In a specific embodiment, the dividing plate 123 is connected to a rotating rod 321, which is rotatably connected to the side wall of the conveyor 12 to drive the dividing plate 123 to rotate, thereby switching the opening and closing of the dividing plate 123 relative to the first discharge port 121. In some embodiments, the rotating rod 321 can be driven to rotate by a motor, a rotating cylinder, or the like.

[0058] like Figure 4As shown, in a specific embodiment, along the inclined direction of the conveyor 12, at least one limiting mechanism 13 is provided on the side of the first discharge port 121 near the loading platform 11 to facilitate the output of paper cup pieces one by one from the first discharge port 121. At least one limiting mechanism 13 is provided between the first discharge port 121 and the second discharge port 122 to facilitate the output of paper cup pieces one by one from the second discharge port 122. Thus, when the guide plate 123 is opened, the limiting mechanism 13 on the side of the first discharge port 121 near the loading platform 11 operates. This limiting mechanism 13 can release the preceding paper cup piece from two adjacent paper cup pieces and prevent it from blocking the following paper cup piece. The released paper cup piece can be output from the first discharge port 121. When the divider plate 123 is closed, the limiting mechanism 13 on the side of the first discharge port 121 near the loading platform 11 releases the paper cup chopper, so that there are two paper cup choppers at the limiting mechanism 13 between the first discharge port 121 and the second discharge port 122. The limiting mechanism 13 between the first discharge port 121 and the second discharge port 122 releases the first paper cup chopper of the two adjacent paper cup choppers and stops blocking the second paper cup chopper. The released paper cup chopper is output from the second discharge port 122.

[0059] Next, the conveying module 20 will be described.

[0060] In a specific embodiment, the first conveying mechanism 21 includes a conveyor belt, which conveys the paper cups.

[0061] like Figure 5 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the pitch-changing mechanism 22 includes a pitch-changing rod 221. The pitch-changing rod 221 extends along a first direction and is rotatable about its own axis. The surface of the pitch-changing rod 221 is provided with a groove that extends spirally along its own axis. The groove wall can contact the edge of the cup rim. The rotation of the pitch-changing rod 221 increases the distance between the bottoms of any two adjacent cups in the cup stack. Thus, while the pitch-changing rod 221 rotates, the first conveying mechanism 21 conveys the cup stack along the first direction. The groove wall on the pitch-changing rod 221 contacts the edge of the cup rim. Since the pitch-changing rod 221 rotates but does not move along the first direction, the groove wall exerts a reverse force on the cup relative to the conveying along the first direction, thereby increasing the distance between the bottoms of two adjacent cups and loosening any two adjacent cups in the cup stack. The spirally extending groove ensures that the groove wall remains in contact with the cup when the pitch-changing rod 221 rotates relative to the cup. As the first conveying mechanism 21 continues to convey the paper cup along the first direction, the paper cup in the paper cup clip can be disengaged from the pitch-changing rod 221 after the pitch is changed.

[0062] like Figure 5 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the pitch mechanism 22 includes a pitch drive 222, which provides power for the rotation of the pitch lever 221. For example, the pitch drive 222 can be a motor, which drives the rotation of the pitch lever 221.

[0063] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the air supply mechanism 23 includes a first air supply duct 231 and a second air supply duct 232 connected to the first air supply duct 231. The first air supply duct 231 extends along a first direction, and the second air supply duct 232 is set at an angle to the first air supply duct 231. The input end of the first air supply duct 231 is connected to the output end of the first conveying mechanism 21. Thus, the first conveying mechanism 21 conveys the paper cups after the pitch is changed by the pitch-changing mechanism 22 into the first air supply duct 231. Since the distance between the bottoms of any two adjacent paper cups in the paper cups increases, the paper cups are in a loose state. Therefore, after the second air supply duct 232 supplies air to the first air supply duct 231, the paper cups in the first air supply duct 231 can be easily blown apart one by one, the paper cups are separated from each other, and the paper cups can be placed into the buffer channel 301 one by one.

[0064] In a specific embodiment, the air supply mechanism 23 further includes an air supply power source connected to the second air supply duct 232 to provide airflow to the second air supply duct 232. For example, the air supply power source can be an air compressor or the like.

[0065] like Figure 5 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the conveying module 20 further includes a guide rod 26 extending along a first direction. Along a second direction, guide rods 26 are respectively provided on both sides of the first conveying mechanism 21 to guide the paper cup to be conveyed along the first direction. The guide rod 26 is provided on the side of the variable pitch rod 221 facing the paper cup, and the guide rod 26 can pass through the first air supply duct 231.

[0066] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the conveying module 20 further includes a sliding cup-dispensing mechanism 24. The sliding cup-dispensing mechanism 24 has a first conveying pipe 241 and a second conveying pipe 242, which extend along a first direction. The input end of the first conveying pipe 241 is connected to the output end of the first air supply pipe 231, and the second conveying pipe 242 is fitted onto the first conveying pipe 241 and can move along the first direction. Thus, the air supply mechanism 23 uses sufficient air energy to blow a single paper cup through the first conveying pipe 241 and the second conveying pipe 242. The second conveying pipe 242 can reciprocate relative to the first conveying pipe 241 along the first direction to dispense the paper cup into the corresponding buffer channel 301 with the cooperation of the air supply mechanism 23.

[0067] like Figures 6 to 8As shown, in a specific embodiment, the sliding cup-throwing mechanism 24 further includes a movable slide 243, a guide rail 244, and a sliding drive component 245. The movable slide 243 is equipped with a second conveying pipe 242. The movable slide 243 is connected to the sliding drive component 245 and slidably connected to the guide rail 244, which extends along a first direction. The sliding drive component 245 provides power for the movement of the movable slide 243, and simultaneously limits and guides the movement of the movable slide 243 through the guide rail 244, thereby realizing the movement of the first conveying pipe 241 along the first direction.

[0068] In a specific embodiment, the sliding drive component 245 can be a cylinder, which pushes the movable slide 243. In other embodiments, a combination structure of hydraulic cylinder, motor and screw can also be used.

[0069] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the conveying module 20 further includes a guide structure 25, which is connected to the output end of the second conveying pipe 242 and forms a guide channel. The guide channel is used to guide the paper cup from the output end of the second conveying pipe 242 to the buffer channel 301. Thus, by setting the guide channel, after the paper cup is output from the output end of the second conveying pipe 242, it can move along the guide channel to the buffer channel 301, improving the accuracy of the paper cup being dispensed from the conveying module 20 to the buffer channel 301 and avoiding instability in the dispensing of the paper cup under the influence of the airflow of the air supply mechanism 23.

[0070] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the guide structure 25 includes a plurality of first guide ribs 251. Each first guide rib 251 is connected to the second conveying pipe 242 and extends from the second conveying pipe 242 toward the buffer channel 301. The plurality of first guide ribs 251 are spaced apart circumferentially along the second conveying pipe 242 to form a guide channel. Thus, the guide channel is formed by the first guide ribs 251, resulting in a simple structure. Along the circumference of the second conveying pipe 242, there is a gap between adjacent first guide ribs 251, making the movement of the paper cup within the guide channel visible. When the paper cup gets stuck in the guide channel, it can be detected in time and adjusted accordingly.

[0071] like Figures 6 to 8 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the guide structure 25 further includes a plurality of fixed ribs 252. The plurality of fixed ribs 252 are spaced apart along the extension direction of the first guide ribs 251. Each fixed rib 252 is connected to the plurality of first guide ribs 251 and extends circumferentially along the second conveying pipe 242 to connect the plurality of first guide ribs 251 together, thereby playing a fixed support role and ensuring the guiding effect.

[0072] Next, the cache module 30 will be described in detail.

[0073] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the buffer module 30 is provided with a plurality of spaced second guide ribs 31, which surround the buffer channel 301. Each second guide rib 31 extends along the height direction to guide the paper cup to fall from the height direction.

[0074] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the buffer module 30 further includes a cup-stopping mechanism 32. The cup-stopping mechanism 32 includes a rotating rod 321 and a stop portion 322 connected to the rotating rod 321. The rotating rod 321 extends along a first direction and is rotatable about its own axis to drive the stop portion 322 to extend into or out of the buffer channel 301. Thus, by rotating the rotating rod 321, the stop portion 322 extends into the buffer channel 301 to restrict the paper cup from moving downwards along the buffer channel 301, thereby slowing down the descent speed of the paper cup within the buffer channel 301 and reducing the pressure on the cup dispensing module 40. Simultaneously, by rotating the rotating rod 321, the stop portion 322 can also extend out of the buffer channel 301 to remove the restriction on the paper cup, allowing the paper cup to continue moving along the buffer channel 301.

[0075] like Figure 10 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the stop part 322 includes a first stop block 3221 and a connecting block 3222. Along the first direction, the two ends of the connecting block 3222 are respectively connected to the corresponding first stop blocks 3221. The first stop blocks 3221 protrude outward relative to the connecting block 3222. The first stop blocks 3221 and the connecting block 3222 form a clearance space to accommodate the second guide ribs 31 and to provide clearance for the second guide ribs 31. The first stop blocks 3221 can pass through the gap between two adjacent second guide ribs 31 and extend into the buffer channel 301 to stop the paper cup. By setting corresponding first stop blocks 3221 at both ends of the connecting block 3222 along the first direction, two support points are formed at the bottom of the paper cup, improving the limiting effect and support of the paper cup.

[0076] like Figure 10As shown, in a specific embodiment, the cup-stopping mechanism 32 further includes a first connecting member 323 and a second connecting member 324. The first connecting member 323 is connected between the second connecting member 324 and the rotating rod 321. The second connecting member 324 and the rotating rod 321 are respectively set at an angle to the first connecting member 323. The second connecting member 324 extends along a first direction, and multiple stop portions 322 are provided along the first direction. The multiple stop portions 322 are spaced apart along the first direction. Each stop portion 322 is connected to the side of the second connecting member 324 that is away from the first connecting member 323 in the height direction, and each stop portion 322 corresponds to a buffer channel 301. In this way, the multiple stop portions 322 are integrated by the setting of the second connecting member 324. The second connecting member 324 is connected to the rotating rod 321 through the first connecting member 323. When the rotating rod 321 rotates, it simultaneously drives the multiple stop portions 322 to swing synchronously, so as to simultaneously realize or cancel the stopping limit of multiple paper cups, thereby improving efficiency.

[0077] In a specific embodiment, the cup-stopping mechanism 32 further includes a cup-stopping drive component, which is connected to the rotating rod 321 and provides power for the rotation of the rotating rod 321. For example, the cup-stopping drive component can be a motor, which drives the rotating rod 321 to rotate.

[0078] In an optional embodiment, along the first direction, multiple buffer channels 301 are arranged side by side to form a buffer group; along the second direction, there are at least two buffer groups, and the at least two buffer groups are arranged at intervals, which is conducive to buffering more paper cups and to dispensing multiple paper cups at the same time, thereby improving the paper cup dispensing efficiency.

[0079] In a further embodiment, multiple buffer groups are provided along the height direction, with any two adjacent buffer groups connected and any two adjacent buffer channels 301 connected. This increases the number of paper cup buffers along the height direction, facilitating the simultaneous feeding and conveying of large quantities of paper cups, thereby improving production efficiency.

[0080] Finally, the cup dispensing module 40 is described in detail.

[0081] In an optional embodiment, the stop mechanism 41 includes a first baffle and a second baffle connected to the first baffle. The first baffle and the second baffle extend along a first direction and are spaced apart along a second direction. Along the height direction, the second baffle is located below the first baffle. The second baffle is used to stop the paper cup located at the bottommost position in the buffer module 30, and the first baffle is used to stop the paper cup above the paper cup located at the bottommost position in the buffer module 30 along the height direction. The first baffle and the second baffle can move synchronously along the second direction to switch between restricting and releasing the bottommost paper cup.

[0082] Thus, when no paper cups are needed, the second baffle blocks the bottommost paper cup in the buffer module 30, restricting the dispensing of paper cups. When paper cups need to be dispensed, the second baffle and the first baffle move synchronously in the second direction, and the second baffle releases the restriction on the bottommost paper cup in the buffer module 30, allowing the bottommost paper cup to be released. Since the second baffle is located below the first baffle, the first baffle can then block the paper cup above the bottommost paper cup in the buffer module 30 along the height direction. The synchronous reciprocating movement of the first and second baffles facilitates the dispensing of paper cups one by one.

[0083] like Figure 11 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the stop mechanism 41 further includes a stop drive member 411, which is connected to the first baffle or the second baffle to drive the first baffle and the second baffle to move synchronously. For example, the stop drive member 411 can be a cylinder, with reciprocating movement achieved by a cylinder push rod. In other embodiments, the stop drive member 411 can also be a hydraulic cylinder, an electric push rod, etc.

[0084] In an optional embodiment, the pushing mechanism 42 is provided with a pushing part; along the height direction, the pushing part is disposed between the first baffle and the second baffle, and the projection of the pushing part overlaps with that of the first baffle; along the second direction, the pushing part and the second baffle are spaced apart; the pushing part can move to the space between the two adjacent paper cups at the bottom of the buffer channel 301, and move along the height direction to push the bottom paper cup downwards. Thus, when a paper cup needs to be placed, the bottom paper cup in the buffer module 30 is no longer blocked by the second baffle, but due to the friction between the two adjacent paper cups, the bottom paper cup in the buffer module 30 usually cannot fall by itself. Therefore, the pushing part is used to push the bottom paper cup downwards.

[0085] In a specific embodiment, the pushing part can be configured as a pushing plate, and the plate-like structure can be better inserted between two adjacent paper cups.

[0086] like Figure 11 As shown, in a specific embodiment, the pushing mechanism 42 further includes a pushing drive member 421 to provide power for the movement of the pushing part. Exemplarily, the pushing drive member 421 is a cylinder, and the reciprocating movement of the pushing part is achieved through a cylinder push rod. In other embodiments, the pushing drive member 421 may also be a hydraulic cylinder, an electric push rod, etc.

[0087] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0088] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the patent protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A paper cup dispensing device, characterized in that, include: Feeding module (10) is used for feeding paper cups; The conveying module (20) includes a first conveying mechanism (21), a pitch-changing mechanism (22), and an air supply mechanism (23). The input end of the first conveying mechanism (21) is connected to the output end of the feeding module (10). The first conveying mechanism (21) is used to convey the paper cups along a first direction. The pitch-changing mechanism (22) is located on one side of the first conveying mechanism (21) along a second direction and is used to increase the distance between the bottoms of any two adjacent paper cups in the paper cups. The input end of the air supply mechanism (23) is connected to the output end of the first conveying mechanism (21) and can blow the paper cups along the first direction to the output end of the conveying module (20). A buffer module (30) is located below the output end of the conveying module (20). The buffer module (30) has multiple buffer channels (301) spaced apart. Each buffer channel (301) is used to receive the paper cups output by the conveying module (20). The cup dispensing module (40) is located below the buffer channel (301). The cup dispensing module (40) includes a stop mechanism (41) and a push mechanism (42). The stop mechanism (41) can stop the paper cup above the paper cup located at the bottom of the buffer module (30) along the height direction. The push mechanism (42) can push the bottom paper cup downwards along the height direction.

2. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The feeding module (10) includes a feeding platform (11), a conveyor (12), and a limiting mechanism (13). The input end of the conveyor (12) is connected to the feeding platform (11). The conveyor (12) is inclined relative to the feeding platform (11) towards the conveying module (20) along the height direction. The output end of the conveyor (12) is provided with the limiting mechanism (13). The limiting mechanism (13) can move to release the first of any two adjacent paper cups and prevent the second paper cup from being blocked.

3. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The limiting mechanism (13) includes a rotating arm (131) and a stop bar (132) connected to the rotating arm (131). The stop bar (132) is set at an angle to the rotating arm (131). The stop bar (132) extends along the width direction of the conveyor (12). The rotating arm (131) is installed on at least one side along the width direction of the conveyor (12). The rotating arm (131) is provided with a rotating shaft extending along the width direction of the conveyor (12). The rotating arm (131) can rotate around the rotating shaft to drive the stop bar (132) to release the first paper cup chop of any two adjacent paper cup chops and stop the second paper cup chop.

4. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 3, characterized in that, At least two stop bars (132) are provided, and the at least two stop bars (132) are spaced apart and located on both sides of the rotating shaft.

5. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The conveyor (12) has a first discharge port (121) and a second discharge port (122) spaced apart at its output end; the opening of the conveyor (12) toward the conveying module (20) forms the second discharge port (122); the first discharge port (121) is located between the loading platform (11) and the second discharge port (122), and a dividing plate (123) is movably connected to the first discharge port (121), the dividing plate (123) opening or closing relative to the first discharge port (121) by its own movement; Along the inclined direction of the conveyor (12), at least one limiting mechanism (13) is provided on the side of the first discharge port (121) near the loading platform (11), and at least one limiting mechanism (13) is provided between the first discharge port (121) and the second discharge port (122). The first conveying mechanism (21) is provided in at least two, and the at least two first conveying mechanisms (21) are arranged side by side along the second direction; the input end of at least one first conveying mechanism (21) is located below the first discharge port (121), and the input end of at least another first conveying mechanism (21) is located below the second discharge port (122).

6. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The pitch mechanism (22) includes a pitch rod (221), which extends along the first direction and is rotatable about its own axis. The surface of the pitch rod (221) is provided with a groove that extends spirally along its own axis. The groove wall can contact the edge of the cup mouth of the paper cup. The rotation of the pitch rod (221) increases the distance between any two adjacent bottoms of the paper cup.

7. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air supply mechanism (23) includes a first air supply duct (231) and a second air supply duct (232) connected to the first air supply duct (231). The first air supply duct (231) extends along a first direction, and the second air supply duct (232) is set at an angle to the first air supply duct (231). The input end of the first air supply duct (231) is connected to the output end of the first conveying mechanism (21).

8. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The conveying module (20) further includes a sliding cup-throwing mechanism (24), which is provided with a first conveying pipe (241) and a second conveying pipe (242). The first conveying pipe (241) and the second conveying pipe (242) extend along the first direction. The input end of the first conveying pipe (241) is connected to the output end of the first air supply pipe (231), and the second conveying pipe (242) is sleeved on the first conveying pipe (241) and can move along the first direction.

9. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The conveying module (20) further includes a guide structure (25), which is connected to the output end of the second conveying pipe (242) and forms a guide channel, which is used to guide the paper cup to move to the buffer channel (301).

10. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The guide structure (25) includes a plurality of first guide ribs (251), each of the first guide ribs (251) being connected to the second conveying pipe (242) and extending from the second conveying pipe (242) toward the buffer channel (301). The plurality of first guide ribs (251) are arranged circumferentially at intervals along the second conveying pipe (242) to form the guide channel. The guide structure (25) further includes a plurality of fixed ribs (252), which are spaced apart along the extension direction of the first guide rib (251). Each fixed rib (252) is connected to the plurality of the first guide ribs (251) and extends circumferentially along the second conveying pipe (242).

11. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cache module (30) is provided with a plurality of spaced second guide ribs (31), which surround the cache channel (301) and each second guide rib (31) extends along the height direction.

12. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 11, characterized in that, The buffer module (30) further includes a cup-stopping mechanism (32), which includes a rotating rod (321) and a stop (322) connected to the rotating rod (321). The rotating rod (321) extends along the first direction and can rotate around its own axis to drive the stop (322) to extend into or out of the buffer channel (301).

13. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 11, characterized in that, Along the first direction, multiple cache channels (301) are arranged side by side to form a cache group; Along the second direction, there are at least two cache groups, and the at least two cache groups are spaced apart; and / or, along the height direction, there are multiple cache groups, any two adjacent cache groups are connected, and any two adjacent cache channels (301) are connected.

14. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The stop mechanism (41) includes a first baffle and a second baffle connected to the first baffle. The first baffle and the second baffle extend along the first direction and are spaced apart along the second direction. Along the height direction, the second baffle is located below the first baffle. The second baffle is used to stop the paper cup located at the bottom of the buffer module (30). The first baffle is used to stop the paper cup above the paper cup located at the bottom of the buffer module (30) along the height direction. The first baffle and the second baffle can move synchronously along the second direction.

15. The paper cup dispensing device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The propulsion mechanism (42) is provided with a propulsion section; Along the height direction, the pushing part is disposed between the first baffle and the second baffle, and the projection of the pushing part overlaps with that of the first baffle; along the second direction, the pushing part is spaced apart from the second baffle; the pushing part can move to the space between the two adjacent paper cups at the bottom in the buffer channel (301), and move along the height direction to push the bottom paper cup downward.

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