Koji-making material boxes, koji-making machines and koji-making equipment

Abstract

This utility model discloses a koji-making material box, a koji-making machine, and koji-making equipment, relating to the field of koji-making technology. The koji-making material box is used in the koji-making machine. The koji-making material box includes a box body and a cover plate. The box body has a receiving cavity, an opening communicating with the receiving cavity, and a bottom wall opposite the opening. A material trough for receiving koji materials is provided on the side of the bottom wall facing the opening. The cross-sectional area of ​​the material trough gradually decreases from the end near the opening to the end away from the opening. The cover plate is detachably installed on the opening. The technical solution provided by this utility model can solve the problem of uneven koji block density caused by unidirectional pressure during the pressing process in the prior art.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of koji-making technology, and in particular to a koji-making material box, a koji-making machine, and koji-making equipment. Background Technology

[0002] Koji blocks play a crucial role in solid-state fermentation, especially in alcoholic beverage brewing. They are block-shaped substances prepared through a series of meticulous processes, primarily using various grains such as wheat, barley, and peas. These grains are first crushed, then mixed in specific proportions, and undergo a specialized koji-making process to form the final koji blocks. The koji blocks contain a rich community of microorganisms and enzymes, which work together as biocatalysts to significantly accelerate the fermentation process during brewing. In modern koji-making technology, the koji press is a key piece of equipment for producing koji blocks. However, current koji press methods mainly involve placing the mixed materials on a flat surface in a material box and performing a single, fixed-direction pressing operation. This method easily leads to uneven density distribution in the final koji blocks, potentially affecting the consistency of fermentation and the quality of the finished product. Utility Model Content

[0003] The main purpose of this utility model is to propose a koji-making material box, a koji-making machine, and koji-making equipment, which aims to solve the problem of uneven koji block density caused by unidirectional pressure during the pressing process in the prior art.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a koji-making material box for use in a koji-making machine, the koji-making material box comprising:

[0005] The box body has a receiving cavity, an opening communicating with the receiving cavity, and a bottom wall opposite to the opening. The bottom wall facing the opening is provided with a material trough for receiving yeast material. The cross-sectional area of ​​the material trough gradually decreases from the end near the opening to the end away from the opening.

[0006] A cover plate is detachably installed over the opening.

[0007] In one embodiment, the material tank is turtle-back shaped;

[0008] And / or, multiple material troughs are provided, and the multiple material troughs are spaced apart along the length direction of the box body on the bottom wall.

[0009] In one embodiment, the housing includes:

[0010] The box body has the aforementioned bottom wall;

[0011] A frame is provided, which is connected to the box body to form the receiving cavity, and the opening is provided at the end of the frame away from the box body.

[0012] In one embodiment, multiple frames are provided, and the multiple frames are interconnected and stacked on the box body;

[0013] And / or, the box body is detachably connected to the frame.

[0014] This utility model also proposes a koji-making machine, including a frame, a koji-pressing and turning mechanism, a koji-pressing and pulping mechanism, and a koji-making material box as described above;

[0015] The frame has a first placement surface and a second placement surface for placing the koji-making material box;

[0016] The pressing and flipping mechanism is disposed on the frame and faces the first placement surface. When the koji-making material box is placed on the first placement surface, it presses the first side of the koji material in the material tank, and flips the koji-making material box after the cover plate is placed on the opening.

[0017] The pressing and extracting mechanism is located on the frame and faces the second placement surface. When the koji material box is placed on the second placement surface, it removes the box and presses and extracts the second side of the koji material on the cover plate to form koji blocks.

[0018] In one embodiment, the first placement surface includes a crimping placement surface and a covering placement surface; the crimping and flipping mechanism includes:

[0019] A pressing module is disposed facing the pressing placement surface and is used to press the first surface of the yeast material in the material tank when the box is placed on the pressing placement surface;

[0020] A cover module is disposed facing the cover placement surface and is used to remove the cover plate and cover the opening when the box is placed on the cover placement surface;

[0021] The first flipping module, located on one side of the covering module, is used to flip the covered koji-making material box and output it to the koji pressing and pulping mechanism.

[0022] In one embodiment, the second placement surface includes a pick-up placement surface, a pressing four-sided placement surface, and a pulp-lifting placement surface; the pressing and pulp-lifting mechanism includes:

[0023] The take-up module is positioned toward the take-up placement surface and is used to remove the box when a flipped koji-making material box is placed on the take-up placement surface, so as to expose the koji material on the cover plate.

[0024] A four-sided pressing module is disposed facing the four-sided pressing placement surface and is used to press the four sides of the second side of the yeast material on the cover plate when the cover plate is placed on the four-sided pressing placement surface.

[0025] The slurry extraction module is positioned facing the slurry extraction placement surface and is used to extract the slurry from the pressed yeast material to form yeast blocks when the cover plate is placed on the slurry extraction placement surface.

[0026] In one embodiment, the koji-making machine further includes;

[0027] The discharge mechanism, located on the frame, is used to separate and output the cover plate and the yeast block;

[0028] A flipping and pressing mechanism is provided on the frame to receive the box body output by the picking module and the cover plate output by the discharging mechanism, and to assemble the box body and the cover plate into the koji-making material box and output it to the koji-pressing and flipping mechanism.

[0029] In one embodiment, the pressing and turning mechanism, the pressing and pulping mechanism, the discharge mechanism, and the turning and pressing mechanism are connected in sequence from end to end.

[0030] This utility model also proposes a koji-making device, including a terminal and a koji-making machine as described above, wherein the koji-making machine is communicatively connected to the terminal.

[0031] This invention provides a koji-making material box comprising a box body and a cover. The box body contains a cavity that communicates with the outside through an opening. A bottom wall is located on the side opposite the opening, and a material trough for holding the koji material is located on the side of the bottom wall facing the opening. The material trough is designed with a cross-sectional area that gradually decreases from the end near the opening to the end away from the opening. This design provides a more uniform pressure distribution during the koji material pressing process because the tapered material trough helps guide the material to gather more tightly towards the bottom of the trough during pressing, resulting in a more uniform density within the final koji block. This is because the tapered structure provides a natural material guiding effect during pressing, allowing pressure to be applied more evenly to the material, thus overcoming the uneven pressure distribution problem that easily occurs in traditional planar pressing methods. Furthermore, the detachable cover can be easily installed on the opening, facilitating material filling and also playing an auxiliary role in the pressing process, helping to maintain the uniformity of the material under pressure. This helps ensure a more uniform and stable density and structure of the koji block throughout its volume, providing a good foundation for the subsequent fermentation process. Using this improved koji-making material box can effectively improve the problem that uneven density may affect the fermentation effect, improve the quality and efficiency of koji blocks used in the brewing process, and thus help improve the quality of the final wine. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the koji-making material box provided by this utility model;

[0034] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of one embodiment of the middle box body;

[0035] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A schematic diagram of another embodiment of the middle box body;

[0036] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of an embodiment of the koji-making machine provided by this utility model;

[0037] Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a structural embodiment of the medium-pressure bending overturning mechanism;

[0038] Figure 6 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a medium-pressure pulp extraction mechanism.

[0039] Explanation of icon numbers:

[0040] 100. Fermentation machine; 1. Fermentation material box; 101. Receptacle; 102. Opening; 103. Bottom wall; 104. Material trough; 11. Box body; 111. Box body; 112. Frame; 12. Cover plate; 2. Frame; 201. First placement surface; 2011. Fermentation placement surface; 2012. Covering placement surface; 202. Second placement surface; 2021. Picking placement surface; 2022. Pressing four sides placement surface; 2023. Lifting placement surface; 3. Fermentation flipping mechanism; 31. Fermentation module; 32. Covering module; 33. First flipping module; 4. Fermentation lifting mechanism; 41. Picking module; 42. Pressing four sides module; 43. Lifting module; 5. Discharge mechanism;

[0041] 6. Tilting and pressing mechanism.

[0042] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this utility model will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0043] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present utility model.

[0044] It should be noted that if the embodiments of this utility model involve directional indicators (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.), the directional indicators are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indicators will also change accordingly.

[0045] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this utility model involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or" or "and / or" throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this utility model.

[0046] Koji blocks play a crucial role in solid-state fermentation, especially in alcoholic beverage brewing. They are block-shaped substances prepared through a series of meticulous processes, primarily using various grains such as wheat, barley, and peas. These grains are first crushed, then mixed in specific proportions, and undergo a specialized koji-making process to form the final koji blocks. The koji blocks contain a rich community of microorganisms and enzymes, which work together as biocatalysts to significantly accelerate the fermentation process during brewing. In modern koji-making technology, the koji press is a key piece of equipment for producing koji blocks. However, current koji press methods mainly involve placing the mixed materials on a flat surface in a material box and performing a single, fixed-direction pressing operation. This method easily leads to uneven density distribution in the final koji blocks, potentially affecting the consistency of fermentation and the quality of the finished product.

[0047] Therefore, this utility model proposes a koji-making material box 1 for use in a koji-making machine 100, aiming to solve the problem of uneven koji block density caused by unidirectional pressure during the pressing process in the prior art.

[0048] Please see Figures 1 to 4 In one embodiment of this utility model, the koji-making material box 1 includes:

[0049] The box body 11 has a receiving cavity 101, an opening 102 communicating with the receiving cavity 101, and a bottom wall 103 opposite to the opening 102. The bottom wall 103 is provided with a material trough 104 for receiving yeast material on the side facing the opening 102. The cross-sectional area of ​​the material trough 104 gradually decreases from the end near the opening 102 to the end away from the opening 102.

[0050] A cover plate 12 is detachably installed over the opening 102.

[0051] In this embodiment, a receiving cavity 101 is provided inside the box body 11 for containing the yeast starter material. The receiving cavity 101 communicates with the outside through an opening 102, and a bottom wall 103 is provided at the end opposite to the opening 102. This design facilitates the filling and removal of the yeast starter material. A material trough 104 is provided on the side of the bottom wall 103 facing the opening 102, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the material trough 104 gradually narrows from the end near the opening 102 to the end away from the opening 102. Specifically, the material trough 104 is not a straight trough with a uniform width or diameter, but its width (if it is a square trough) or diameter (if it is a circular trough) gradually narrows from the end near the opening 102 to the end away from the opening 102 (i.e., towards the bottom wall 103). When the material is filled into the material tank 104 and compressed, the tapered design helps to distribute pressure more evenly, allowing the material to fill every corner of the material tank 104 more tightly during the compression process, especially the bottom area. This contributes to the formation of a more uniformly dense curd. Because the cross-sectional area of ​​the material tank 104 gradually decreases, this increases the pressure concentration on the material, enabling more effective compression during the compression process. This further promotes the uniform distribution of microorganisms and enzymes within the curd, which is beneficial for subsequent fermentation. The tapered design also helps reduce material slippage or excessive accumulation on one side during filling or compression, ensuring the material maintains a relatively stable position throughout the compression process, thereby improving the quality of the final product.

[0052] The cover plate 12 is detachable and plays an important role in different stages of the koji-making machine 100. The koji-making machine 100 may include, but is not limited to, the koji-pressing and turning mechanism 3 and the koji-pressing and slurry-extraction mechanism 4. First, after the koji-pressing and turning mechanism 3 performs the first pressing of the koji material in the material tank 104, the cover plate 12 is used to close the opening 102, protecting the material and preparing it for the next operation. After the box body 11 is removed, the cover plate 12 receives the koji material after the first pressing and then transfers it to the koji-pressing and slurry-extraction mechanism 4 for a second pressing and slurry-extraction to form koji blocks. This step is crucial for ensuring that the material is fixed in position and maintains its shape during the second pressing. The detachable nature of the cover plate 12 not only facilitates the filling and removal of materials but also serves as a transition in key steps of the koji-making process (such as between the first and second pressing), ensuring that the material does not scatter or deform during the transition process, thus improving overall production efficiency. Because the resulting koji blocks have a more uniform density, the microorganisms and enzymes within them can participate more effectively in the fermentation process, thereby improving the brewing fermentation effect and helping to produce higher quality and better-flavored alcoholic beverages.

[0053] The technical solution of this utility model involves setting a koji-making material box 1, including a box body 11 and a cover plate 12. The box body 11 has an internal cavity 101, which communicates with the outside through an opening 102. A bottom wall 103 is provided on the side opposite to the opening 102. A material trough 104 for accommodating the koji material is provided on the side of the bottom wall 103 facing the opening 102. The material trough 104 is designed with a gradually decreasing cross-sectional area from the end near the opening 102 to the end away from the opening 102. This design provides a more uniform pressure distribution during the koji material pressing process because the tapered material trough 104 helps guide the material to gather more tightly towards the bottom of the trough during pressing, resulting in a more uniform density within the final koji block. This is because the tapered structure provides a natural material guiding effect during pressing, allowing pressure to be applied more evenly to the material, thus overcoming the problem of uneven pressure distribution that easily occurs in traditional planar pressing methods. In addition, the detachable cover 12 can be easily installed on the opening 102, which not only facilitates the filling of materials but also plays an auxiliary role in the pressing process, helping to maintain the uniformity of the materials under pressure. This helps ensure that the density and structure of the koji blocks are more uniform and stable throughout the entire volume, providing a good foundation for the subsequent fermentation process. Using this improved koji material box 1 can effectively improve the problem of uneven density affecting fermentation results, improve the quality and efficiency of koji blocks used in the brewing process, and thus contribute to improving the quality of the final product.

[0054] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment of this utility model, the material tank 104 is shaped like a turtle's back.

[0055] In this embodiment, when the material tank 104 is designed in a turtle-shell shape, it means that its surface is not a smooth plane, but has a certain undulation or protrusion structure, similar to the shape of a turtle shell. The turtle-shell shape helps to distribute pressure more evenly during the pressing process. Because the surface is not completely flat, the protrusions of different heights allow the pressure points to be dispersed rather than concentrated on a few points when pressure is applied. This helps prevent uneven density caused by excessive pressure in certain areas. Simultaneously, the material is subjected to pressure from all directions during pressing, and the turtle-shell surface guides the material to flow in a predetermined direction, allowing the material to fill every corner more tightly, especially the bottom area, thus ensuring a more consistent density throughout the entire curved block. Furthermore, the protruding surface reduces the direct contact area between the material and the material tank 104, thereby reducing the possibility of material adhesion, which is beneficial for the removal and cleaning of the curved block in subsequent processes.

[0056] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment of the present invention, multiple material troughs 104 are provided, and the multiple material troughs 104 are spaced apart along the length direction of the box body 11 on the bottom wall 103.

[0057] In this embodiment, multiple material troughs 104 are spaced apart along the length of the box body 11 on the bottom wall 103. Multiple material troughs 104 allow for the simultaneous processing of more yeast material, significantly increasing the quantity of material pressed in a single batch, thereby improving overall production efficiency. This is particularly important for large-scale production, as it reduces the idle time of the yeast-making machine 100 and allows the production line to operate more smoothly. By spaced out multiple material troughs 104, the thickness and compaction of the material can be better controlled. Appropriate thickness and compaction are crucial for the activity of microorganisms during fermentation, as they directly affect factors such as oxygen supply, temperature control, and the diffusion rate of nutrients. A reasonable layout of the material troughs 104 helps create an optimal fermentation environment, thereby improving the quality of the final product. Furthermore, these material troughs 104 can have the same turtle-back design, or they can be designed with different shapes (such as rectangles, circles, or other geometries) and sizes according to specific process requirements. For example, larger material troughs 104 can be used to process larger batches of yeast material, while smaller material troughs 104 are suitable for smaller batches requiring more precise control. Furthermore, material tanks 104 of different shapes and sizes can be customized according to specific production process requirements to adapt to different types of yeast materials or different fermentation needs. For example, some materials may require a larger contact area to promote microbial growth, in which case a material tank 104 with a relatively flat surface can be selected; while for materials that require higher density, a material tank 104 with more raised structures can be selected.

[0058] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment of this utility model, the box body 11 includes:

[0059] The box body 111 has the bottom wall 103;

[0060] The frame 112 is connected to the box body 111 to form the receiving cavity 101, and the opening 102 is provided at the end of the frame 112 away from the box body 111.

[0061] In this embodiment, the box body 111 is the basic part of the koji-making material box 1, and has a bottom wall 103. The bottom wall 103 is provided with a material groove 104 (such as a turtle shell design) for supporting and initially sorting the koji materials. The design of the material groove 104 helps to guide the flow of materials during the pressing process, ensuring a more uniform density distribution.

[0062] The frame 112 is connected to the box body 111, together forming a cavity 101 for containing the yeast material. The main function of the frame 112 is to define the space for the material, and an opening 102 is provided at the end away from the box body 111 to facilitate filling the material and subsequent installation or removal of the cover 12.

[0063] In particular, the frame 112 plays a crucial protective role throughout the entire koji-making process. First, during the initial pressing, the frame 112 helps maintain the material's shape and prevents it from expanding or overflowing under pressure. Second, during the flipping operation, the frame 112 continues to protect the material from external interference, maintaining its integrity. Finally, after the box body 111 is removed, the frame 112 continues to surround the material until the second pressing, providing necessary support and protection to prevent the material from scattering or deforming. In other words, the frame 112 provides comprehensive physical protection during the initial pressing, flipping, and preparation stages for the second pressing, ensuring that the material is not damaged or deformed by external forces, thus guaranteeing the consistency of the final koji quality. It is precisely because of the frame 112 that the material can be handled more stably during complex koji-making operations (such as pressing and flipping), reducing material loss or uneven quality caused by improper operation.

[0064] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of frames 112 are provided, and the plurality of frames 112 are interconnected and stacked on the box body 111.

[0065] In this embodiment, by stacking multiple frames 112 on the box body 111, multi-layer material processing can be achieved. Each frame 112 can independently hold a certain amount of yeast material, but because they are interconnected, the pressure generated during the pressing process not only acts on the material in a single frame 112, but can also be effectively transferred to the material in other frames 112, ensuring that the material in all layers can be uniformly compacted, avoiding local over- or under-compression problems, and improving the quality consistency of the final product.

[0066] Please see Figure 2 and Figure 3 In one embodiment of this utility model, the box body 111 and the frame 112 are detachably connected.

[0067] In this embodiment, the box body 111 and the frame 112 are detachably connected, meaning that they can be connected together by bolts, clips, or other quick-release mechanisms. This design allows the box body 111 to be easily removed after the initial pressing is completed without affecting the state of the material inside the frame 112.

[0068] To facilitate understanding of this connection, the following explanation uses the koji-making process as an example: First, the koji-pressing and flipping mechanism 3 can be used to press the koji material in the material tank 104 for the first time. Second, the opening 102 can be closed manually or using the koji-pressing and flipping mechanism 3, and the entire material box can be flipped. Third, the box body 111 can be removed from the frame 112 manually or using the koji-pressing and slurry-lifting mechanism 4, leaving only the material inside the frame 112 for further processing. Finally, the koji-pressing and slurry-lifting mechanism 4 can be used to press and slurry the koji material on the cover plate 12 for the second time. In other words, the detachable connection allows for easy removal of the box body 111 after the initial pressing, facilitating subsequent operations, avoiding complex disassembly and assembly steps, and improving work efficiency. Furthermore, during the removal of the box body 111, the presence of the frame 112 ensures that the material maintains its original shape and position, reducing the risk of material spillage due to handling or movement.

[0069] This utility model also proposes a koji-making machine 100, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 4 to 6 The koji-making machine 100 includes a frame 2, a koji-pressing and turning mechanism 3, a koji-pressing and pulping mechanism 4, and a koji-making material box 1. The specific structure of the koji-making material box 1 is as described in the above embodiments. Since the koji-making machine 100 adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0070] The frame 2 has a first placement surface 201 and a second placement surface 202 for placing the koji-making material box 1. The koji-making material box 1 can be prepared on the first placement surface 201, and the koji material to be processed can be filled into the material tank 104. A pressing and flipping mechanism 3 is mounted on the frame 2 and faces the first placement surface 201. The pressing and flipping mechanism 3 can be used to press the first side of the koji material in the koji-making material box 1 located on the first placement surface 201. This process applies appropriate pressure to initially shape the koji material. After the initial pressing, the opening 102 cover plate 12 can be placed over the opening 102 of the koji-making material box 1 manually or automatically (e.g., using the pressing and flipping mechanism 3) to ensure that the material does not overflow or become contaminated in subsequent operations. Next, the entire koji-making material box 1 is flipped over again manually or by the pressing and flipping mechanism 3, so that the unpressed side faces upwards, preparing for the next step. The flipped koji-making material box 1 needs to be moved to the second placement surface 202. This step can also be done manually or using the pressing and turning mechanism 3. The pressing and slurry extraction mechanism 4 is also set on the frame 2, but it faces the second placement surface 202. When the koji material box 1 is located on the second placement surface 202, the next task is to remove the box body 111, leaving only the frame 112 and the material inside. This process can be performed manually or with the help of the pressing and turning mechanism 3. The final step is for the pressing and slurry extraction mechanism 4 to press and extract the second surface of the koji material on the cover plate 12. This process not only further compacts the material, but also improves the surface quality of the material through the slurry extraction process, ultimately forming the desired koji block.

[0071] Throughout the koji-making process, the detachable connection of the koji-making material box 1 and the multi-layer frame structure 112 are crucial to ensuring the smooth operation of each step. In particular, the detachable design between the box body 111 and the frame 112 greatly simplifies the transition from primary to secondary pressing, improving work efficiency and ensuring consistent product quality. Furthermore, by rationally arranging the positions and functions of the pressing and turning mechanism 3 and the pressing and pulping mechanism 4, continuous operation is possible; that is, while primary pressing is being performed at one location, secondary pressing and pulping can be carried out at another location, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the production line.

[0072] Please see Figure 5 In one embodiment of this utility model, the first placement surface 201 includes a bending placement surface 2011 and a covering placement surface 2012; the bending and flipping mechanism 3 includes:

[0073] The pressing module 31 is disposed facing the pressing placement surface 2011 and is used to press the first surface of the yeast material in the material tank 104 when the box body 11 is placed on the pressing placement surface 2011.

[0074] The cover module 32 is disposed facing the cover placement surface 2012 and is used to remove the cover plate 12 and cover the opening 102 when the box body 11 is placed on the cover placement surface 2012.

[0075] The first flipping module 33 is located on one side of the covering module 32 and is used to flip the covered koji-making material box 1 and output it to the koji pressing and pulping mechanism 4.

[0076] In this embodiment, the pressing surface 2011 is the position for the initial pressing operation. When the koji material box 1 is placed here, the pressing module 31 will press the first surface of the koji material in the material tank 104. The cover surface 2012 is a transition position for accurately covering the cover plate 12 on the opening 102 of the initially pressed koji material box 1.

[0077] The pressing module 31 is positioned facing the pressing placement surface 2011 and is used to apply pressure to the first side of the yeast material in the material tank 104 when the yeast material box 1 is located on the pressing placement surface 2011, thus completing the initial shaping. The covering module 32 is positioned facing the covering placement surface 2012 and is used to remove the cover plate 12 and accurately cover the opening 102 of the box body 11 after the box body 11 has moved from the pressing placement surface 2011 to the covering placement surface 2012. This process ensures that the material will not overflow or become contaminated in subsequent steps. The first flipping module 33 is located on one side of the covering module 32. After the cover plate 12 is successfully covered, the first flipping module 33 flips the received yeast material box 1 so that the unpressed side faces upwards and outputs it to the pressing and extracting mechanism 4 for further processing.

[0078] In practical applications, the entire process can be carried out according to the following steps: First, place the koji-making material box 1 containing koji materials on the koji-pressing placement surface 2011. Start the koji-pressing module 31 to press the first side of the koji materials in the material tank 104, completing the initial shaping. After the initial pressing is completed, transfer the koji-making material box 1 to the covering placement surface 2012. Using the covering module 32, automatically or manually cover the opening 102 of the koji-making material box 1 accurately. Then, use the first flipping module 33 to flip the covered koji-making material box 1 so that the unpressed side faces upward, and output it to the koji-pressing and pulping mechanism 4. Finally, on the second placement surface 202, the koji-making material on the cover 12 is pressed and pulped by the koji-pressing and pulping mechanism 4, further compacting and forming the final shape. By subdividing the koji-pressing and flipping mechanism 3 into different modules, each module can focus more on specific tasks, optimize the entire process, and improve production efficiency.

[0079] Please see Figure 6In one embodiment of this utility model, the second placement surface 202 includes a take-up placement surface 2021, a pressing four-sided placement surface 2022, and a pulp-lifting placement surface 2023; the pressing and pulp-lifting mechanism 4 includes:

[0080] The take-up module 41 is positioned toward the take-up placement surface 2021 and is used to remove the box 11 when the flipped koji-making material box 1 is placed on the take-up placement surface 2021, so as to expose the koji material on the cover plate 12.

[0081] The four-sided pressing module 42 is disposed facing the four-sided pressing placement surface 2022 and is used to press the four sides of the second side of the yeast material on the cover plate 12 when the cover plate 12 is placed on the four-sided pressing placement surface 2022.

[0082] The slurry extraction module 43 is disposed facing the slurry extraction placement surface 2023 and is used to extract the slurry of the pressed yeast material to form yeast blocks when the cover plate 12 is placed on the slurry extraction placement surface 2023.

[0083] In this embodiment, the removal placement surface 2021 is used to remove the flipped koji-making material box 1 (i.e., removing part of the box body 11, leaving the frame 112 and the cover plate 12). On the pressing four-sided placement surface 2022, the koji material on the cover plate 12 is pressed a second time to ensure that the material is fully compacted. The slurry-lifting placement surface 2023 is where the slurry-lifting process is performed, which further improves the surface quality of the material and forms the final koji block.

[0084] The take-up module 41 is positioned facing the take-up placement surface 2021. When the flipped koji material box 1 is moved to this position, the take-up module 41 is responsible for removing part of the box body 11, leaving only the frame 112 and the cover plate 12, so that the second side of the koji material can be processed later. The four-sided pressing module 42 is positioned facing the four-sided pressing placement surface 2022. When the cover plate 12 is placed on the four-sided pressing placement surface 2022, it is used to apply pressure to the four sides of the second side of the koji material on the cover plate 12 to complete the secondary pressing, making the material more compact and well formed. The slurry extraction module 43 is positioned facing the slurry extraction placement surface 2023. At this stage, the slurry extraction module 43 will perform slurry extraction processing on the koji material that has undergone secondary pressing. This process not only helps to further compact the material, but also improves the surface quality of the material, ultimately forming a koji block that meets the requirements.

[0085] Based on the functions of the aforementioned components, the entire application process can be summarized as follows: First, preliminary pressing and cover plate 12 operations are completed on the first placement surface 201, and the koji-making material box 1 is flipped and output to the pick-up placement surface 2021 via the first flipping module 33. On the pick-up placement surface 2021, the box body 11 of the koji-making material box 1 is removed using the pick-up module 41, leaving only the frame 112 and cover plate 12, exposing the koji material that needs secondary pressing. Next, the frame 112 containing the koji material is moved to the four-sided pressing placement surface 2022, and the four-sided pressing module 42 is used to press the second side of the koji material to ensure that the material achieves the required compactness and shape. The final step is to move the material that has undergone secondary pressing to the extraction placement surface 2023, where the extraction module 43 performs the extraction operation to form high-quality koji blocks. By meticulously dividing different placement surfaces and corresponding modules, a series of continuous operations from initial pressing, flipping, secondary pressing to final extraction can be achieved, greatly improving work efficiency and product consistency.

[0086] Please see Figures 4 to 6 In one embodiment of this utility model, the koji-making machine 100 further includes;

[0087] The discharge mechanism 5 is located on the frame 2 and is used to separate and output the cover plate 12 and the yeast block;

[0088] The flipping and pressing mechanism 6 is set on the frame 2 and is used to receive the box body 11 output by the picking module 41 and the cover plate 12 output by the discharging mechanism 5, and assemble the box body 11 and the cover plate 12 into the koji-making material box 1 and output it to the koji-pressing and flipping mechanism 3.

[0089] In this embodiment, the discharge mechanism 5 is located on the frame 2. After all pressing and pulping processes are completed, the discharge mechanism 5 is responsible for separating the final formed yeast blocks from the cover plate 12 and outputting them separately. This step ensures the quality of the finished yeast blocks while effectively recycling the cover plate 12 for use in the next production cycle. The flipping and pressing mechanism 6 is also located on the frame 2. First, the flipping and pressing mechanism 6 needs to receive the empty box 11 removed by the take-up module 41 and the cleaned or directly reused cover plate 12. Then, it reassembles these components into a complete yeast-making material box 1. This process may involve precise alignment, positioning, and necessary fixing steps to ensure that the newly assembled yeast-making material box 1 can stably withstand subsequent pressing pressure. Finally, the assembled yeast-making material box 1 is sent back to the pressing and flipping mechanism 3 to start a new round of yeast-making process.

[0090] Based on the previous information, a more complete koji-making process can be constructed: First, preliminary pressing is completed on the first placement surface 201, and the cover plate 12 is added to the material box through the cover-closing module 32; second, the koji-making material box 1 is flipped over by the first flipping module 33 to expose the unpressed side; third, secondary pressing and pulping are performed on the second placement surface 202 to form the final koji block; finally, the discharge mechanism 5 separates the cover plate 12 and the koji block, outputting the finished product, while the flipping and pressing mechanism 6 receives the empty box 11 output by the take-up module 41 and the cover plate 12 provided by the discharge mechanism 5, reassembling them into a new koji-making material box 1 for the next round of use. This design not only improves the overall automation level of the production line and reduces the need for manual intervention, but also ensures the operational precision and product quality consistency of each link.

[0091] Please see Figures 4 to 6 In one embodiment of this utility model, the pressing and turning mechanism 3, the pressing and pulping mechanism 4, the discharge mechanism 5, and the turning and pressing mechanism 6 are connected end to end in sequence.

[0092] In this embodiment, the pressing and turning mechanism 3, the pressing and extracting mechanism 4, the discharging mechanism 5, and the turning and pressing mechanism 6 are designed as a continuous workflow, connected end to end to form a highly efficient automated production line. The workflow of this automated production line is as follows: First, the pressing and turning mechanism 3 performs initial pressing on the material and prepares it for the next stage of processing through a turning operation; second, the pressing and extracting mechanism 4 receives the material box after the initial pressing and turning, removes the box body 111, and performs a second pressing and extracting process to form high-quality yeast blocks. Simultaneously, the turning and pressing mechanism 6 receives the empty box body 11 removed by the pressing and extracting mechanism 4; finally, after all pressing and extracting are completed, the discharging mechanism 5 separates the finished yeast blocks from the cover plate 12 and outputs the cover plate 12 and yeast blocks respectively. Simultaneously, the turning and pressing mechanism 6 receives the cover plate 12 provided by the discharging mechanism 5, reassembles it into a new yeast-making material box 1, and outputs it to the pressing and turning mechanism 3 for the next round of yeast production. The close connection between these mechanisms reduces material transfer time and improves overall work efficiency. The entire process requires almost no human intervention, reducing labor costs and the possibility of human error. Furthermore, because it's a continuous operation, it ensures consistent quality across each batch, facilitating the maintenance of high standards of product quality control.

[0093] This utility model also proposes a koji-making device; please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4The koji-making equipment includes a terminal and a koji-making machine 100. The specific structure of the koji-making machine 100 is as described in the above embodiments. Since this koji-making equipment adopts all the technical solutions of all the above embodiments, it has at least all the beneficial effects brought about by the technical solutions of the above embodiments, and will not be described in detail here. The terminal can be a computer, tablet computer, or smartphone, etc., and it communicates with the koji-making machine 100 via wired or wireless means. Data exchange can be achieved through industrial Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or other communication protocols suitable for industrial environments. The terminal is used to monitor the working status of the koji-making machine 100 in real time, receive data from sensors (such as position detection signals), adjust process parameters, record production data, and may support remote control of certain operations.

[0094] The above description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the patent scope of the present utility model. Any equivalent structural transformations made based on the technical concept of the present utility model and the contents of the present utility model specification and drawings, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the patent protection scope of the present utility model.

Claims

1. A koji material box characterized by comprising: For use in a koji-making machine, the koji-making material box includes: The box body has a receiving cavity, an opening communicating with the receiving cavity, and a bottom wall opposite to the opening. The bottom wall facing the opening is provided with a material trough for receiving yeast material. The cross-sectional area of ​​the material trough gradually decreases from the end near the opening to the end away from the opening. A cover plate is detachably installed over the opening.

2. The koji material cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The material trough is shaped like a turtle's back. And / or, multiple material troughs are provided, and the multiple material troughs are spaced apart along the length direction of the box body on the bottom wall.

3. The koji material cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The housing includes: The box body has the aforementioned bottom wall; A frame is provided, which is connected to the box body to form the receiving cavity, and the opening is provided at the end of the frame away from the box body.

4. The koji material cartridge of claim 3, wherein, The frame is provided in multiple ways, and the multiple frames are interconnected and stacked on the box body; And / or, the box body is detachably connected to the frame.

5. A koji making machine characterized by comprising: Includes a frame, a pressing and turning mechanism, a pressing and pulping mechanism, and a koji-making material box as described in any one of claims 1 to 4; The frame has a first placement surface and a second placement surface for placing the koji-making material box; The pressing and flipping mechanism is disposed on the frame and faces the first placement surface. When the koji-making material box is placed on the first placement surface, it presses the first side of the koji material in the material tank, and flips the koji-making material box after the cover plate is placed on the opening. The pressing and extracting mechanism is located on the frame and faces the second placement surface. When the koji material box is placed on the second placement surface, it removes the box and presses and extracts the second side of the koji material on the cover plate to form koji blocks.

6. The koji making machine as claimed in claim 5, wherein The first placement surface includes a bending placement surface and a covering placement surface; the bending and flipping mechanism includes: A pressing module is disposed facing the pressing placement surface and is used to press the first surface of the yeast material in the material tank when the box is placed on the pressing placement surface; A cover module is disposed facing the cover placement surface and is used to remove the cover plate and cover the opening when the box is placed on the cover placement surface; The first flipping module, located on one side of the covering module, is used to flip the covered koji-making material box and output it to the koji pressing and pulping mechanism.

7. The koji making machine as claimed in claim 5, wherein The second placement surface includes a pick-up placement surface, a pressing four-sided placement surface, and a pulp-lifting placement surface; the pressing and pulp-lifting mechanism includes: The take-up module is positioned toward the take-up placement surface and is used to remove the box when a flipped koji-making material box is placed on the take-up placement surface, so as to expose the koji material on the cover plate. A four-sided pressing module is disposed facing the four-sided pressing placement surface and is used to press the four sides of the second side of the yeast material on the cover plate when the cover plate is placed on the four-sided pressing placement surface. The slurry extraction module is positioned facing the slurry extraction placement surface and is used to extract the slurry from the pressed yeast material to form yeast blocks when the cover plate is placed on the slurry extraction placement surface.

8. The koji making machine as claimed in claim 7, wherein The koji-making machine also includes; The discharge mechanism, located on the frame, is used to separate and output the cover plate and the yeast block; A flipping and pressing mechanism is provided on the frame to receive the box body output by the picking module and the cover plate output by the discharging mechanism, and to assemble the box body and the cover plate into the koji-making material box and output it to the koji-pressing and flipping mechanism.

9. The koji making machine as claimed in claim 8, wherein The pressing and turning mechanism, the pressing and pulping mechanism, the discharge mechanism, and the turning and pressing mechanism are connected in sequence.

10. A koji making apparatus characterized by comprising: It includes a terminal and a koji-making machine as described in any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the koji-making machine is communicatively connected to the terminal.

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