A food safety pretreatment and detection device

Abstract

The utility model discloses a kind of food safety pretreatment and detection device, it is related to food detection technical field, the device includes box, pretreatment module and ATP biological fluorescence detector, pretreatment module includes the concentrator for sample purging concentration, centrifuge for sample separation, homogenizer for sample mixing and water bath for sample constant temperature incubation;ATP biological fluorescence detector is integrated in the inside of box, for the microbiological pollution detection of food contact surface.The device is integrated by the design of detection module, solve the problem of equipment dispersion in traditional food safety detection, operation is complicated, error is big, efficiency is low, realize the field, rapidity and intelligentization of food safety detection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of food safety testing technology, and more specifically, to a food safety pretreatment and testing device. Background Technology

[0002] Food safety testing is a crucial link in safeguarding public health, typically comprising two main stages: sample pretreatment and instrumental analysis. Sample pretreatment is the core step affecting testing efficiency and accuracy, aiming to separate, purify, and enrich the target analyte from the complex food matrix to eliminate interference and improve detection sensitivity. Traditional sample pretreatment processes rely on a series of separate, large-scale devices, such as nitrogen blowers for concentration, centrifuges for separation, vortex mixers for mixing, and water baths for heating.

[0003] This decentralized processing model suffers from numerous technical shortcomings and has become a bottleneck restricting the development of rapid on-site detection. Specifically, existing technologies mainly have the following problems: The equipment is scattered, the operation is cumbersome, and the efficiency is low: For example, patent application CN217931031U discloses a sample pretreatment device for food testing, which only integrates grinding and filtration functions, while key steps such as concentration and centrifugation still rely on other independent equipment. Operators need to transfer samples between different devices, which is cumbersome and time-consuming. This not only significantly increases the risk of sample contamination and loss, but also greatly limits the realization of high-throughput detection and cannot meet the stringent timeliness requirements of rapid on-site testing.

[0004] Limited functionality and lack of integrated detection modules: Current market products and patented technologies mostly focus on pretreatment functions. Processed samples still need to be transferred to specialized detection equipment (such as spectrophotometers, chromatographs, etc.) for analysis. This transfer process introduces the risk of cross-contamination and sample loss again, prolonging the total time from sample to result (TAT) and failing to realize the true "sample in - result out" on-site rapid detection concept. Utility Model Content

[0005] In view of this, the primary objective of this utility model is to overcome the aforementioned defects of the prior art and provide a food safety pretreatment and testing device to solve the technical problems of dispersed equipment, poor portability, and low degree of automation in the prior art, thereby realizing on-site, rapid, and intelligent food safety testing.

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, the primary objective of this utility model is to provide a food safety pretreatment and testing device, comprising: Box; The pretreatment module, integrated inside the housing, includes a concentrator for sample purge and concentration, a centrifuge for sample separation, a homogenizer for sample mixing, and a water bath for constant-temperature sample incubation; and An ATP biofluorescence detector is integrated inside the housing and is used to detect microbial contamination on food contact surfaces.

[0007] Preferably, the concentrator includes: The base has a plurality of first heating holes extending vertically on its upper surface. The first heating holes are evenly distributed on the same circumference and their diameters match the outer diameter of the centrifuge tube. A gas box is located above the first heating hole and coaxially arranged with each of the first heating holes. The lower surface of the gas box is provided with gas needles corresponding to each of the multiple first heating holes. The gas needles are used to deliver gas into the inner cavity of the centrifuge tube. An electric lifting mechanism is fixed at one end to the base and connected to the air box at the other end. The electric lifting mechanism is adapted to drive the air box to make linear motion in the vertical direction in order to adjust the depth of the air needle inserted into the centrifuge tube. An air pump is built into and fixed inside the base, and the air outlet of the air pump is connected to the air inlet of the air box through a gas pipeline.

[0008] Preferably, the concentrator further includes a first temperature sensor disposed near the first heating hole and an electric heating wire embedded in the base and arranged around each of the first heating holes. The first temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the first heating hole in real time and output a temperature signal; the electric heating wire is used to adjust the temperature of each of the first heating holes.

[0009] Preferably, the water bath includes a pot body, an electric heater, and a second temperature sensor. The top of the pot body is open to form a constant temperature water bath chamber. The water bath chamber is provided with multiple vertically downward centrifuge tube racks, and the centrifuge tube racks are suitable for placing positioning centrifuge tubes. The electric heater is fixed to the lower part of the pot body and arranged around the water bath cavity. The electric heater is used to heat the liquid in the water bath cavity to a set temperature. The second temperature sensor is inserted into the water bath and arranged adjacent to the centrifuge tube rack. The second temperature sensor is used to detect the liquid temperature in real time and output a temperature signal.

[0010] Preferably, the centrifuge includes: A centrifuge chamber is formed on the box body and is provided with an openable and closable centrifuge cover; A brushless DC motor is fixed to the bottom of the centrifuge chamber, and the output shaft of the brushless DC motor extends vertically upward into the centrifuge chamber; The rotor is detachably mounted on the output shaft. The rotor has multiple evenly distributed centrifuge tube positions, and the axis of each centrifuge tube position forms a fixed angle with the axis of the output shaft, so as to accommodate multiple centrifuge tubes at the same time. The speed control module is electrically connected to the brushless DC motor and is used to steplessly adjust and stabilize the speed of the output shaft. The timing module is electrically connected to the speed control module, and the timing module is used to send a stop signal to stop the brushless DC motor from rotating.

[0011] Preferably, the mixer comprises: The base has an installation interface on its upper surface; A drive motor is fixed inside the base. The output end of the drive motor is connected to an eccentric shaft. The top end of the eccentric shaft is rigidly connected to the bottom of the cavity of the mounting interface so as to directly transmit the oscillation power to the mounting interface. A speed control module is electrically connected to the drive motor, and the speed control module is used to steplessly adjust and maintain the set speed of the drive motor.

[0012] Preferably, the ATP bioluminescence detector includes: The housing has a dark chamber inside, and the top of the dark chamber has an openable and closable light-shielding cover and forms an insertion hole that is adapted to the outer diameter of a standard test tube. A photoelectric sensing module is installed at the bottom of the dark chamber. The photoelectric sensing module includes a photon counting photomultiplier tube and a sampling cavity coupled thereto. It is used to detect the fluorescence signal emitted by the reaction per unit time and output an RLU value proportional to the ATP content. A biofluorescent reagent holder is located on the upper surface of the housing to fix a disposable reagent card pre-loaded with luciferase / luciferin reagent, allowing the reagent and sample to mix instantaneously in the sampling chamber; A microcontroller is electrically connected to the photoelectric sensing module. The microcontroller is used to display the RLU value on a visual operation panel and output a positive prompt when the RLU value exceeds a preset threshold. A memory, connected to the microcontroller bus, is used to store the detection result records; A USB interface is located on the side wall of the housing and electrically connected to the microcontroller, used to export the detection results recorded in the memory to an external computer.

[0013] Preferably, each centrifuge tube rack has a plurality of evenly distributed tube holes.

[0014] Preferably, the speed control module and the timing module are both Changsha Qike TDZ4 models.

[0015] Preferably, the speed control module is an Advantech USB-4711A.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, this utility model has at least the following beneficial effects: This invention relates to a food safety pretreatment and testing device, comprising a housing, pretreatment modules, and an ATP biofluorescence detector. In traditional testing processes, samples must be transferred between separate mixers, centrifuges, concentrators, and water baths, with a single testing cycle typically taking 2-3 hours. This device integrates all pretreatment and testing modules within a single housing, requiring only movement between modules within the housing, eliminating the need for cross-equipment transport. This shortens the single testing cycle and improves efficiency, making it particularly suitable for rapid screening at food production sites to promptly detect microbial contamination risks. In traditional dispersed equipment operations, samples are exposed to air for extended periods and come into contact with multiple containers, increasing the risk of cross-contamination or environmental microbial contamination. The integrated design of this device allows samples to be transferred only within the sealed housing, and each module (such as the centrifuge chamber and concentrator) can be equipped with sterile consumables, significantly reducing the risk of contamination. Therefore, this device, through its integrated testing module design, solves the problems of dispersed equipment, cumbersome operation, large errors, and low efficiency in traditional food safety testing. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the food safety pretreatment and detection device in the embodiments of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal exploded structure of the food safety pretreatment and testing device in this embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the concentrator in an embodiment of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structural frame of the concentrator in an embodiment of this utility model; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structural frame of the centrifuge in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structural frame of the mixer in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structural frame of the water bath in this embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 1-Box; 2-Control module; 21-Digital tube display; 22-Button regulator; 3-Concentrator; 31-Base; 311-First heating hole; 32-Gas box; 321-Gas needle; 33-Electric lifting mechanism; 34-Air pump; 4-Centrifuge; 41-Centrifuge chamber; 42-Brushless DC motor; 43-Rotor; 432-Centrifuge tube position; 44-Speed ​​control module; 45-Timer module; 5-Mixer; 51-Base; 511-Mounting interface; 53-Drive motor; 531-Eccentric shaft; 54-Speed ​​control module; 6-Water bath; 61-Boiler body; 611-Water bath chamber; 6111-Centrifuge tube rack; 62-Electric heater; 63-Second temperature sensor; 7-ATP biofluorescence detector. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solution of this utility model will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this utility model. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model. In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can also refer to the internal connection of two components; and they can refer to a wireless connection or a wired connection. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.

[0020] The terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “right,” and similar expressions used in this document are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. The terminology used in this specification is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Please see Figure 1-7 As shown, this embodiment of the present invention provides a food safety pretreatment and detection device, which includes a housing 1, a pretreatment module, and an ATP biofluorescence detector 7, wherein: The pretreatment module is integrated inside the housing 1. The pretreatment module includes a concentrator 3 for sample purging and concentration, a centrifuge 4 for sample separation, a homogenizer 5 for sample mixing, and a water bath 6 for sample isothermal treatment. The ATP biofluorescence detector 7 is integrated inside the housing 1. The ATP biofluorescence detector 7 is used to detect microbial contamination on food contact surfaces.

[0022] In traditional testing processes, samples need to be transferred between separate mixers 5, centrifuges 4, concentrators 3, and water baths 6 (requiring manual handling and container cleaning), with a single testing cycle typically taking 2-3 hours. In contrast, this device integrates all pretreatment and testing modules into the same housing 1, shortening the sample transfer path (requiring only movement between different modules within housing 1, eliminating the need for cross-equipment transport). This reduces the single testing cycle and improves efficiency, making it particularly suitable for rapid screening in food production sites to promptly detect the risk of microbial contamination.

[0023] In traditional dispersion equipment operation, samples are exposed to air for a long time and come into contact with many containers, which easily leads to cross-contamination between samples or environmental microbial contamination. The integrated design of this device allows samples to be transferred only inside the closed chamber, and each module (such as centrifuge chamber and concentration tank) can be equipped with sterile consumables, which significantly reduces the risk of contamination.

[0024] Therefore, this device, through its integrated design of detection modules, solves the problems of dispersed equipment, cumbersome operation, large errors, and low efficiency in traditional food safety testing.

[0025] It should be noted that the device also includes a control module 2, which is integrated into the housing 1. The control module 2 includes a microcomputer control system and a visual operation panel, a digital tube display 21, and a keypad regulator 22, all electrically connected to the microcomputer control system. The control module 2 can adjust and control the corresponding operating parameters via the keypad regulator 22 during operation of any of the units in the concentrator 3, centrifuge 4, mixer 5, or water bath 6, and the results are displayed in real-time on the visual operation panel. Preferably, in this embodiment, the microcomputer control system is an S7-200 SMART CPU SR20, and its related control processes are common knowledge in the field, without involving any improvement to the control program; a brief explanation is provided here.

[0026] Specifically, please refer to Figure 1 , 3 As shown in Figure 4, the concentrator 3 includes a base 31, an air box 32, an electric lifting mechanism 33, and an air pump 34, wherein: The upper surface of the base 31 is provided with a plurality of first heating holes 311 extending in the vertical direction. The first heating holes 311 are evenly distributed on the same circumference and the hole diameter matches the outer diameter of the centrifuge tube. The gas box 32 is located above the first heating hole 311 and is coaxially arranged with each first heating hole 311. The lower surface of the gas box 32 is provided with gas needles 321 corresponding to each of the multiple first heating holes 311. The gas needles 321 are used to deliver gas into the inner cavity of the centrifuge tube. One end of the electric lifting mechanism 33 is fixed to the base 31, and the other end is connected to the air box 32. The electric lifting mechanism 33 is adapted to drive the air box 32 to make linear motion in the vertical direction in order to adjust the depth of the air needle 321 inserted into the centrifuge tube. The air pump 34 is built into the base 31 and fixed inside. The air outlet of the air pump 34 is connected to the air inlet of the air box 32 through a gas pipeline.

[0027] Specifically, in this embodiment, the base 31 serves as the support platform and heat source carrier of the concentrator 3. It integrates high-precision heating elements (such as heating wires) and temperature sensors (such as PT100). The multiple first heating holes 311 on the upper surface are designed to extend vertically and be evenly distributed on the same circumference. This structural layout ensures that the distance between each first heating hole 311 and the gas needle 321 is consistent, ensuring the uniformity of airflow and heat conduction, thereby realizing the parallel and synchronous processing of multiple samples and improving efficiency (supporting the simultaneous processing of 12 samples).

[0028] The diameter of the first heating hole 311 is matched with the outer diameter of the centrifuge tube. If it is too tight, it will be difficult to put in or take out the centrifuge tube; if it is too loose, it will reduce the heat transfer efficiency. This matching ensures full contact between the centrifuge tube wall and the heating hole wall, achieving efficient and uniform heating, and enabling the sample to be heated quickly and uniformly to the set temperature.

[0029] The gas chamber 32 acts as a gas collecting chamber, evenly distributing the airflow from a single gas source (built-in air pump) to multiple gas needles 321. This design replaces the complex method of connecting individual tubing to each gas needle 321 in traditional devices, simplifying the structure, reducing the risk of leakage, and ensuring the consistency of airflow from each gas needle outlet. The gas needles 321 are coaxially aligned with the first heating hole 311 and correspond one-to-one, ensuring that the airflow can be blown vertically and accurately towards the liquid surface at the bottom of the centrifuge tube. This coaxial design avoids splashing and sample loss caused by airflow hitting the tube wall, while also optimizing the gas-liquid contact area and improving the efficiency of solvent evaporation.

[0030] The electric lifting mechanism 33 replaces the traditional manual knob adjustment method, avoiding the problems of low efficiency, poor consistency, and difficulty in precise control that exist in manual adjustment. Driven by a motor, the electric lifting mechanism 33 achieves one-button lifting and can quickly adapt to centrifuge tubes of different height specifications (such as 5mL tubes).

[0031] For example, the electric lifting mechanism 33 can be adjusted in real time or in stages according to the solvent level. When the liquid level is high in the initial stage of concentration, the gas needle 321 can penetrate closer to the liquid surface to improve purging efficiency; as the liquid level drops, the gas needle 321 can drop accordingly to always maintain the optimal purging distance and prevent sample loss due to excessive airflow when the solvent dries quickly.

[0032] The air pump 34 is built into the base 31, realizing "integrated equipment and device", which completely eliminates the dependence on bulky external gas cylinders and greatly improves the portability and operational flexibility of the equipment.

[0033] After the user places the sample, they set the temperature, airflow speed, and lifting parameters on the control panel. Upon startup, the heating base 31 begins to heat up, the air pump 34 starts supplying air, and the electric lifting mechanism 33 lowers the air chamber 32 to a suitable height according to a preset program or user command. The airflow enters the air chamber 32 from the air pump 34 through the pipeline, is evenly distributed, and then flows out from each air needle 321, blowing vertically towards the liquid surface of the centrifuge tube. At the same time, heat is efficiently conducted to the sample through the tube wall of the first heating hole 311. The entire process is carried out under the monitoring of the microcomputer control system, realizing unattended automated concentration.

[0034] More specifically, the concentrator 3 also includes a first temperature sensor and an electric heating wire. The first temperature sensor is located near the first heating hole 311, and the electric heating wire is embedded in the base 31 and arranged around each of the first heating holes 311. The first temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the first heating hole 311 in real time and output a temperature signal. The electric heating wire is embedded in the base 31 and arranged around each of the first heating holes 311 to adjust the temperature of each of the first heating holes 311.

[0035] Specifically, in this embodiment, the user sets a target temperature (e.g., 60.0℃) on the control panel. The first temperature sensor measures the actual temperature of the first heating hole 311 in real time (e.g., 59.5℃) and transmits this signal to the microcomputer control system. The microcomputer control system compares the measured value (59.5℃) with the target value (60.0℃), calculates the deviation (-0.5℃), and outputs a control signal to adjust the current supplied to the heating wire based on the deviation value. As the heating wire power increases, the temperature begins to rise. When the temperature exceeds the target value, the microcomputer control system reduces the power. After several rapid adjustments, the system reaches a dynamic equilibrium state, stably controlling the temperature within a very small fluctuation range (±0.3℃) near the target value. The entire process continuously cycles, forming a closed loop, continuously resisting temperature disturbances caused by environmental heat dissipation, sample addition, etc.

[0036] Specifically, please refer to Figure 1 , 7 As shown, the water bath 6 includes a pot body 61, an electric heater 62, and a second temperature sensor 63. The top of the pot body 61 is open to form a constant temperature water bath chamber 611. The water bath chamber 611 is provided with a plurality of vertically downward centrifuge tube racks 6111, and the centrifuge tube racks 6111 are used to place and position centrifuge tubes. An electric heater 62 is fixed to the lower part of the pot body 61 and arranged around the water bath chamber 611. The electric heater 62 is used to heat the liquid in the water bath chamber 611 to a set temperature. The second temperature sensor 63 is inserted into the water bath chamber 611 and arranged near the centrifuge tube rack 6111. The second temperature sensor 63 is used to detect the liquid temperature in real time and output a temperature signal.

[0037] In this embodiment, after the user sets the target temperature, the electric heater 62 begins to heat the pot body 61 from all sides. The heat is rapidly and evenly distributed through the metal pot body and its complex internal "water passages (heat dissipation holes)". The second temperature sensor 63 monitors the actual temperature of the heating block in real time, ultimately maintaining the temperature of the entire metal heating block (including the inner wall of each heating hole) precisely and stably at the set value. When a low-temperature centrifuge tube is placed inside, its powerful heat capacity and rapid heat replenishment capability allow its temperature to recover quickly.

[0038] Specifically, please refer to Figure 5 As shown, the centrifuge 4 includes a centrifuge chamber 41, a brushless DC motor 42, a rotor 43, a speed control module 44, and a timing module 45, wherein: The centrifuge chamber 41 is a chamber that is directly machined or formed on the housing 1. This integrated structure maximizes space saving and avoids the bulky problem caused by external centrifuges. The centrifuge chamber 41 is equipped with a centrifuge cover, preferably made of rubber.

[0039] The brushless DC motor 42 is fixed to the bottom of the centrifuge chamber 41, and the output shaft of the brushless DC motor 42 extends vertically upward into the centrifuge chamber 41. Compared with the traditional brushed motor, the brushless DC motor 42 replaces the physical brushes and commutator with an electronic commutator (driven by the speed control module). Its output shaft is installed vertically upward, and the rotor 43 is directly installed on the output shaft of the brushless DC motor 42 through a quick-release mechanism (such as a knob buckle).

[0040] The rotor 43 is detachably mounted on the output shaft. The rotor 43 has multiple evenly distributed centrifuge tube positions 432. The axis of each centrifuge tube position 432 forms a fixed angle with the axis of the output shaft, which is used to accommodate multiple centrifuge tubes at the same time. When the brushless DC motor 42 rotates, the centrifugal force on the sample can be decomposed into two components, vertical and horizontal, which causes the sample to aggregate (precipitate) at the bottom of the tube or to stratify according to density.

[0041] The speed control module 44 is electrically connected to the brushless DC motor 42 and is used to steplessly adjust and stabilize the speed of the output shaft. The speed control module 44 receives instructions from the microcomputer control system and precisely controls the magnitude and timing of the current supplied to each phase winding of the brushless DC motor 42, thereby realizing stepless adjustment of the motor speed.

[0042] The timing module 45 is electrically connected to the speed control module 44. The timing module 45 is used to send a stop signal to stop the brushless DC motor 42 from rotating. After the user sets the time, the timing module 45 starts counting down. When the countdown ends, the timing module 45 sends a stop signal to the speed control module 44 to stop the motor smoothly.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of this invention, the speed control module 44 and the timing module 45 are integrated together. The model selected is Changsha Qike TDZ4. This module is a common dedicated control module and does not involve any structural or program modifications.

[0044] Specifically, please refer to Figure 1 , 6 As shown, the mixer 5 includes a base 51, a drive motor 53, and a speed control module 54, wherein: The base 51 is the structural foundation of the entire mixer 5, and its interior is used to house the drive motor 53. The upper surface of the base 51 is provided with an installation interface 511. The drive motor 53 is fixed inside the base 51. The output end of the drive motor 53 is connected to the eccentric shaft 531. The eccentric shaft 531 is used to generate track oscillation with a rotation diameter of 4 mm. The top end of the eccentric shaft 531 is rigidly connected to the bottom of the cavity of the mounting interface 511 so as to directly transmit the oscillation power to the mounting interface 511.

[0045] When the drive motor 53 rotates, the center of mass of the eccentric shaft 531 is not at the center of rotation, which generates a periodic centrifugal force. This force is transmitted to the mounting interface 511 through the base 51, forcing the sample tube on the mounting interface 511 to oscillate in an orbital manner. At the same time, to prevent the test tube from falling off, the test tube is manually assisted in mixing.

[0046] The speed control module 54 is electrically connected to the drive motor 53. The speed control module 54 is used to steplessly adjust and maintain the set speed of the drive motor 53. The speed control module 54 receives instructions from the microcomputer control system and steplessly adjusts the voltage or current supplied to the drive motor 53, thereby realizing continuous and precise control of the speed of the drive motor 53.

[0047] Preferably, the speed control module 54 is an Advantech USB-4711A. The speed control module 54 is electrically connected to the drive motor 53. This is existing technology and does not involve any improvement to the control program.

[0048] Therefore, through intense three-dimensional vortexing, trace to large volumes (1.5-50 ml) of sample can be thoroughly mixed within seconds to tens of seconds, far exceeding the efficiency of manual oscillation or simple vibratory mixers. This is crucial for rapid extraction and reaction termination, directly improving overall detection efficiency.

[0049] Specifically, in some embodiments of this utility model, the ATP biofluorescence detector 7 includes a housing, a photoelectric sensing module, a biofluorescence reagent holder, a microcontroller, a memory, and a USB interface, wherein: The housing contains a dark chamber with an openable and closable light-shielding cover at the top, forming an insertion hole adapted to the outer diameter of a standard test tube. A photoelectric sensing module is installed at the bottom of the dark chamber, comprising a photon-counting photomultiplier tube and a coupled sampling chamber. This module detects the fluorescence signal emitted by the reaction per unit time and outputs an RLU value proportional to the ATP content. A biofluorescent reagent card is located on the upper surface of the housing, used to fix a disposable reagent card pre-loaded with luciferase / luciferin reagent, allowing the reagent and sample to mix instantaneously within the sampling chamber. A microcontroller is electrically connected to the photoelectric sensing module, displaying the RLU value on a visual operation panel and simultaneously executing an E. coli screening algorithm, outputting a positive alert when the RLU value exceeds a preset threshold. A memory is connected to the microcontroller bus to save test result records. A USB interface is located on the side wall of the housing and electrically connected to the microcontroller, used to export the test result records from the memory to an external computer.

[0050] In this specific embodiment, the dark chamber inside the housing is the foundation of the entire optical detection process. When closed, the closable light-shielding cover on top forms a physical barrier with the housing, ensuring a near-absolutely dark environment inside. The inserted test tube is precisely positioned through a standard-diameter fitting socket, while simultaneously ensuring light-shielding and sealing. Because photon-counting detection is extremely sensitive to stray light, even the slightest ambient light leakage will generate extremely high background noise, drowning out the weak bioluminescent signal and leading to detection failure or a sharp decrease in accuracy.

[0051] A photon-counting photomultiplier tube (PMT) is a vacuum tube that uses the photoelectric effect and secondary electron emission effect to exponentially amplify weak light signals and convert them into electrical signals. "Photon-counting" means that it operates in a mode that counts individual photons, making it one of the most sensitive photodetectors currently available.

[0052] The coupled sampling cavity ensures that the lower part of the test tube (the reaction area) is in the optimal optical coupling position with the photocathode surface of the photon counting photomultiplier tube, maximizing the collection of every photon emitted by the reaction and reducing optical path loss.

[0053] The luciferase / luciferin reagent is pre-loaded into disposable reagent cards. Users simply add the prepared sample solution to the reagent card and insert it into the designated slot on the detector. When the reaction cell at the end of the reagent card is inserted into the darkroom socket, the mechanical mechanism causes the sample and reagent to mix instantaneously.

[0054] The microcontroller receives the electrical pulse signal (RLU) output by the PMT and compares the detected ATP concentration or RLU value with a preset threshold. When the threshold is exceeded, the microcontroller not only displays the value but also directly outputs a clear "positive" or "exceeds the limit" prompt.

[0055] Specifically, in this embodiment, when the RLU value exceeds a preset threshold, the value is displayed in red to represent a positive result; when the RLU value does not exceed the preset threshold, the value is displayed in green to represent a negative result. The memory automatically saves complete data for each test, including RLU value, timestamp, and other information. Storing more than 2,000 records meets the needs of large-scale on-site screening and achieves complete traceability of the testing process. The USB interface provides a bridge to connect with PC-based data management software, allowing users to export data in batches for in-depth statistical analysis, generate test reports, or report to the regulatory system.

[0056] Based on the above-mentioned food safety pretreatment and testing device, its specific usage process is as follows: The food sample to be tested is preliminarily processed and packaged; the concentration temperature, airflow speed and concentration time are set and adjusted in real time according to the solvent properties and volume; the sample is concentrated by purging with the built-in air pump 34 and electric heating wire of the concentrator 3; the concentration process is optimized by the electric lifting mechanism 33; the target relative centrifugal force value is set, the corresponding speed is automatically calculated and executed, and the sample is centrifuged and separated by the centrifuge 4. The sample is vortexed and mixed using a homogenizer 5. The sample tube is placed on the mounting interface 511 of the base 51, and the speed and time are set before starting. The device generates orbital oscillation, causing the sample to form a violent vortex inside the tube. The sample tube is then placed in the centrifuge rack of the water bath 6, and the precise target temperature and time are set for temperature adjustment. This step is used to stimulate or accelerate specific biochemical reactions, such as enzymatic hydrolysis, derivatization, or cell lysis. The prepared sample is then tested for drug residues. Simultaneously, the ATP biofluorescence detector 7 integrated in the housing 1 is used to rapidly detect the food contact surface. The ATP biofluorescence detector 7 directly reads the RLU value and compares it with the preset safety limit to obtain microbial contamination index data. After the test is completed, the test results, operating parameters, and timestamp data are exported to an external computer system via the USB interface on the device for recording, analysis, or generating a test report.

[0057] Although the present invention has been disclosed above, its protection scope is not limited thereto. Those skilled in the art can make various changes and modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and all such changes and modifications will fall within the protection scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A food safety pretreatment and testing device, characterized in that, include: Box (1); A pretreatment module, integrated inside the housing (1), includes a concentrator (3) for sample purge and concentration, a centrifuge (4) for sample separation, a homogenizer (5) for sample mixing, and a water bath (6) for sample constant temperature incubation; and An ATP biofluorescence detector (7) is integrated inside the housing (1) and is used to detect microbial contamination on food contact surfaces.

2. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The concentrator (3) includes: The base (31) has a plurality of first heating holes (311) extending in a vertical direction on its upper surface. The first heating holes (311) are evenly distributed on the same circumference and the hole diameter matches the outer diameter of the centrifuge tube. The gas box (32) is located above the first heating hole (311) and is coaxially arranged with each of the first heating holes (311). The lower surface of the gas box (32) is provided with gas needles (321) corresponding to each of the multiple first heating holes (311). The gas needles (321) are used to deliver gas into the inner cavity of the centrifuge tube. An electric lifting mechanism (33) is fixed at one end to the base (31) and connected at the other end to the air box (32). The electric lifting mechanism (33) is adapted to drive the air box (32) to make linear motion in the vertical direction in order to adjust the depth of the air needle (321) inserted into the centrifuge tube. An air pump (34) is built into the base (31), and the air outlet of the air pump (34) is connected to the air inlet of the air box (32) through a gas pipeline (37).

3. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The concentrator (3) further includes a first temperature sensor disposed near the first heating hole (311) and an electric heating wire embedded in the base (31) and arranged around each of the first heating holes (311). The first temperature sensor is used to detect the temperature of the first heating hole (311) in real time and output a temperature signal; the electric heating wire is used to adjust the temperature of each of the first heating holes (311).

4. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water bath (6) includes a pot body (61), an electric heater (62), and a second temperature sensor (63). The top of the pot body (61) is open to form a constant temperature water bath chamber (611). The water bath chamber (611) is provided with multiple vertically downward centrifuge tube racks (6111), and the centrifuge tube racks (6111) are suitable for placing positioning centrifuge tubes. The electric heater (62) is fixed to the lower part of the pot body (61) and arranged around the water bath cavity (611). The electric heater (62) is used to heat the liquid in the water bath cavity (611) to a set temperature. The second temperature sensor (63) is inserted into the water bath (611) and arranged adjacent to the centrifuge tube rack (6111). The second temperature sensor (63) is used to detect the liquid temperature in real time and output a temperature signal.

5. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The centrifuge (4) includes: Centrifuge chamber (41) is formed on the box body (1) and is provided with an openable and closable centrifuge cover; A brushless DC motor (42) is fixed at the bottom of the centrifuge chamber (41), and the output shaft (421) of the brushless DC motor (42) extends vertically upward into the centrifuge chamber (41). The rotor (43) is detachably mounted on the output shaft (421). The rotor (43) is provided with a plurality of evenly distributed centrifuge tube positions (432). The axis of each centrifuge tube position (432) forms a fixed angle with the axis of the output shaft (421) to accommodate multiple centrifuge tubes at the same time. The speed control module (44) is electrically connected to the brushless DC motor (42) and is used to steplessly adjust and stabilize the speed of the output shaft (421); The timing module (45) is electrically connected to the speed control module (44). The timing module (45) is used to send a stop signal to stop the brushless DC motor (42) from rotating.

6. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mixer (5) includes: The base (51) has an installation interface (511) on its upper surface. A drive motor (53) is fixed inside the base (51). The output end of the drive motor (53) is connected to an eccentric shaft (531). The top end of the eccentric shaft (531) is rigidly connected to the bottom of the cavity of the mounting interface (511) so as to directly transmit the oscillation power to the mounting interface (511). The speed control module (54) is electrically connected to the drive motor (53) and is used to steplessly adjust and maintain the speed of the drive motor (53).

7. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ATP bioluminescence detector (7) includes: The housing has a dark chamber inside, and the top of the dark chamber has an openable and closable light-shielding cover and forms an insertion hole that is adapted to the outer diameter of a standard test tube. A photoelectric sensing module is installed at the bottom of the dark chamber. The photoelectric sensing module includes a photon counting photomultiplier tube and a sampling cavity coupled thereto. It is used to detect the fluorescence signal emitted by the reaction per unit time and output an RLU value proportional to the ATP content. A biofluorescent reagent holder is located on the upper surface of the housing to fix a disposable reagent card pre-loaded with luciferase / luciferin reagent, allowing the reagent and sample to mix instantaneously in the sampling chamber; A microcontroller is electrically connected to the photoelectric sensing module. The microcontroller is used to display the RLU value on the visual operation panel and execute the coliform bacteria screening algorithm. When the RLU value exceeds a preset threshold, a positive prompt is output. A memory, connected to the microcontroller bus, is used to store the detection result records; A USB interface is located on the side wall of the housing and electrically connected to the microcontroller, used to export the detection results recorded in the memory to an external computer.

8. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 4, characterized in that, Each centrifuge tube rack (6111) has a plurality of evenly distributed tube holes.

9. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The speed control module (44) and the timing module (45) are both Changsha Qike TDZ4.

10. The food safety pretreatment and testing device according to claim 6, characterized in that, The speed control module (54) is model Advantech USB-4711A.

Images