Mulberry leaf paste extraction and concentration equipment

Abstract

The utility model discloses a mulberry leaf paste leaching concentration equipment belongs to traditional chinese medicine extraction equipment technical field, mainly solves the problem of easy jam, low efficiency and uneven secondary filtration load in mulberry leaf leaching liquid filtration process. The equipment adopts the structure that leaching tank, filter assembly and concentration tank are communicated in proper order, and wherein filter assembly includes vertical filter cylinder, and its inside is provided with primary rotary filter screen and secondary folding type filter membrane assembly along material flow direction, the bottom of rotary filter screen is equipped with the arc flow guide board of convex surface faces upwards, and its outer edge leaves the clearance with cylinder inner wall, can with the filtrate steady guide periphery, and secondary filtration adopts the multiple folding type filter membrane that is evenly distributed in the circumference, and the end collects and discharges filtrate through inverted conical liquid collecting hopper. The equipment realizes efficient cascade filtration, and is mainly used for the clarification pretreatment of mulberry leaf leaching liquid, and provides high quality filtrate for subsequent concentration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the technical field of agricultural product deep processing equipment, specifically relating to a mulberry leaf extract concentration device. Background Technology

[0002] In the industrial production of mulberry leaf extract, extraction and concentration are two core processes. The quality of the extract directly affects the quality and yield of the final product, while efficient solid-liquid separation is crucial for ensuring the clarity of the extract, reducing the load on subsequent concentration processes, and improving the overall quality stability of the product. Currently, the industry commonly uses multi-stage series filtration in the filtration process of mulberry leaf extract; however, in practical applications, this process still faces several technical bottlenecks and process problems that urgently need to be solved.

[0003] Firstly, in the initial filtration stage, fixed screens are commonly used for coarse filtration of the extract to remove larger leaf residues and suspended solids. However, mulberry leaf extract is rich in polysaccharides, pectin, and other viscous substances, which easily form a dense filter cake layer on the screen surface during filtration, quickly clogging the mesh. This not only leads to a sharp drop in filtration efficiency, requiring frequent shutdowns for cleaning, but also increases system operating pressure and poses a risk of leakage. Simultaneously, the trapped solid particles accumulate in large quantities above the screen surface, remaining immersed in the liquid for extended periods. This results in the loss of some soluble active ingredients because they cannot detach from the solid phase in time, reducing the final yield of mulberry leaf extract.

[0004] The filtrate after primary filtration still needs to enter the fine filtration stage to remove finer suspended particles and colloidal substances. Currently, fine filtration often uses filters with multiple built-in vertical membranes or filter cartridges. However, if the pre-filtration is ineffective or the fluid distribution is uneven, the filtrate will concentrate in some membrane areas, causing them to operate under overload, while other areas will not function effectively. This uneven flow distribution will significantly shorten the overall lifespan of the membrane, increasing replacement frequency and production costs. More importantly, if the viscous filtrate cannot contact the membrane surface evenly and smoothly, concentration polarization or a gel layer can easily form on the membrane surface, causing a rapid decline in membrane flux, increased filtration resistance, and increased energy consumption.

[0005] In attempting to address these issues, technicians tried optimizing the pre-filter structure or adding pre-coatings. However, the centrifugal force generated by the rotating screen caused the fluid to impact the tank wall at high speed, creating splashes and eddies that disrupted the flow field and carried a large number of air bubbles into the next stage, adversely affecting the fine filtration process. Furthermore, a design challenge was how to smoothly and evenly distribute the fluid, which might still be uneven after primary filtration, to each fine filtration unit, avoiding short circuits or dead zones. Traditional liquid distribution devices are complex in structure and prone to becoming new clogging points, making maintenance and cleaning extremely inconvenient.

[0006] Therefore, existing mulberry leaf extract filtration systems have long faced a series of interconnected technical challenges, including primary filtration clogging, low efficiency, and loss of effective components, as well as secondary filtration issues such as uneven flow field distribution, easy membrane fouling, and short service life. These problems have hindered the improvement of filtration efficiency and continuous production levels, and have long been a focus of urgent improvement in this field. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One object of this invention is to solve at least the aforementioned problems and / or defects, and to provide at least the advantages described below.

[0008] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem of low efficiency and poor effect of mulberry leaf extract in single-stage filtration.

[0009] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem that liquid on the surface of an arc-shaped guide plate may be unevenly distributed or stagnant due to surface tension.

[0010] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem of uneven liquid flow transition from primary to secondary filtration.

[0011] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem of uneven distribution of liquid from the annular liquid distribution chamber to the secondary filter membrane assembly.

[0012] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem that liquid flowing down from the gap between the arc-shaped guide plate and the cylinder wall may splash, leak, or fail to fully enter the annular liquid distribution chamber.

[0013] One objective of this invention is to solve the problem of dead zones or poor flow that may occur when liquid flows in an annular liquid distribution cavity.

[0014] To achieve these objectives and other advantages according to this utility model, a mulberry leaf extract concentration device is provided, comprising an extraction tank, a filtration assembly, and a concentration tank connected in sequence; the filtration assembly includes a vertically arranged filter cylinder, with an inlet at the top and an outlet at the bottom, and a primary filtration mechanism and a secondary filtration mechanism arranged sequentially along the material flow direction inside the filter cylinder; the primary filtration mechanism is a horizontally arranged rotary filter screen, the edge of which slides against the inner wall of the filter cylinder, and its bottom is coaxially provided with an upwardly protruding arc-shaped guide plate; the arc-shaped guide plate is a spherical convex structure with the axis of the rotary filter screen as its center, and the arc shape... The radial dimension of the guide plate is smaller than the radial dimension of the screen surface of the rotary filter screen, and a gap is left between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder; the secondary filtration mechanism includes multiple vertically arranged folded filter membrane assemblies, which are evenly distributed relative to the axis of the filter cylinder. The folded filter membrane assemblies are connected to the inner wall of the filter cylinder. The liquid collecting hopper has an inverted conical structure, and the top opening diameter of the liquid collecting hopper is adapted to the inner diameter of the filter cylinder. The bottom of the liquid collecting hopper is connected to the discharge port of the filter cylinder, and the discharge port of the filter cylinder is connected to the discharge pipe; the extraction tank is connected to the inlet of the filter cylinder, and the discharge pipe is connected to the concentration tank.

[0015] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the spherical convex structure of the arc-shaped guide plate is provided with 3-4 guide grooves evenly distributed radially. The guide grooves extend from the apex of the convex surface of the arc-shaped guide plate to the outer edge, and the depth of the guide grooves gradually increases from the apex to the edge.

[0016] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, an annular liquid distribution chamber is provided inside the filter cylinder between the arc-shaped guide plate and the folded filter membrane assembly. The annular liquid distribution chamber is a circular cavity structure coaxial with the filter cylinder. The top opening of the annular liquid distribution chamber completely covers the gap between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder, and the edge of the top opening of the annular liquid distribution chamber is sealed to the inner wall of the filter cylinder.

[0017] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the bottom of the annular liquid distribution chamber is provided with a number of liquid distribution branches evenly distributed along the circumference. The number of liquid distribution branches is consistent with the number of folded filter membrane components and corresponds one-to-one. Each liquid distribution branch is provided with a trumpet-shaped liquid distribution port at its end, and the opening direction of the liquid distribution port is directly opposite to the central axis of the corresponding folded filter membrane component.

[0018] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the top of the annular liquid distribution chamber is also provided with an upwardly extending annular baffle, and the inner diameter of the annular baffle is consistent with the outer edge diameter of the arc-shaped guide plate.

[0019] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the inner wall of the annular liquid distribution chamber is provided with several turbulence protrusions evenly distributed along the circumference and in a hemispherical structure.

[0020] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the edge of the arc-shaped guide plate is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the filter cylinder by 3-4 L-shaped fixed brackets evenly distributed along the circumference. The horizontal section of the L-shaped fixed bracket is welded and fixed to the edge of the arc-shaped guide plate, and the vertical section is bolted to the inner wall of the filter cylinder. The overall height of the fixed bracket does not exceed the convex vertex of the arc-shaped guide plate.

[0021] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the side wall of the filter cylinder is provided with detachable cleaning doors corresponding to the positions of the primary filtration mechanism and the secondary filtration mechanism.

[0022] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the inner wall of the liquid collecting hopper is provided with a plurality of guide ribs evenly distributed along the circumference, the height of the guide ribs is the same as the height of the liquid collecting hopper, and the cross-section of the guide ribs is triangular.

[0023] Preferably, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment, the bottom of the collection hopper is provided with a conical filter screen, and the apex of the conical filter screen faces upward.

[0024] This utility model has at least the following beneficial effects: This invention achieves highly efficient tiered filtration by incorporating a primary filtration mechanism including a rotating filter screen and an arc-shaped guide plate, combined with a secondary pleated filter membrane assembly. The rotating filter screen effectively separates large particles and prevents clogging, while the arc-shaped guide plate below smoothly directs the filtrate to the surrounding area, preventing the liquid flow from directly impacting the subsequent filter membranes, thus creating stable flow field conditions for secondary fine filtration. The secondary filtration uses multiple evenly distributed pleated filter membranes, significantly increasing the filtration area and improving filtration efficiency and precision. The inverted conical collection hopper at the end ensures smooth collection and discharge of the filtrate. The entire system has a compact structure, a smooth filtration process, and effectively improves the clarity and overall filtration efficiency of mulberry leaf extract.

[0025] This invention provides a clear guiding path for liquid flow by setting radial guide grooves on an arc-shaped guide plate. This structure effectively overcomes the uneven distribution or stagnation of liquid on a smooth spherical surface caused by surface tension, allowing the liquid to diffuse more quickly and evenly from the center to the edge of the guide plate. This ensures that the liquid flowing out from the outer edge of the guide plate forms a continuous and uniformly thick annular liquid curtain, thereby improving the stability and consistency of the entire filtration process.

[0026] This invention achieves efficient transition and flow distribution from primary to secondary filtration through an annular liquid distribution chamber. This chamber acts as a stable buffer and distribution hub, collecting all liquid flowing out from the guide plate and eliminating its kinetic energy and potential eddies, thus stabilizing the liquid flow. This avoids the risk of uneven load and localized blockage caused by disordered liquid directly impacting the folded filter membrane, providing conditions for precise and uniform liquid distribution via branch pipes, and significantly improving the working environment of the secondary filtration.

[0027] This invention achieves precise and flexible liquid distribution to each filtration unit through the design of liquid distribution branches and funnel-shaped liquid distribution ports. Each filter membrane assembly has a dedicated liquid distribution branch, ensuring balanced flow distribution. The funnel-shaped liquid distribution port reduces the outlet velocity of the liquid flow and gently guides the liquid to the central inlet area of ​​the filter membrane with a large diffusion surface, avoiding direct impact and initial contamination of the filter membrane surface by high-speed liquid flow. This allows for full utilization of the effective filtration area of ​​the filter membrane and extends its service life.

[0028] This invention utilizes an annular baffle to create a highly reliable sealed collection system. This baffle ensures that all liquid flowing down from the gap between the primary guide plate and the cylinder wall is completely intercepted, without any leakage or splashing, and is entirely directed into the annular distribution chamber. This completely eliminates the problems of short-circuiting, loss, or scouring and contamination of the cylinder wall that might occur if the liquid bypasses the distribution chamber, ensuring that all liquids involved in filtration are distributed along a standardized path, thus improving the liquid collection rate and the reliability of the distribution process.

[0029] This invention effectively improves the flow state of high-viscosity liquids within the annular distribution chamber through a turbulent protrusion structure. These tiny protrusions generate slight turbulence on the inner wall surface of the chamber, breaking the laminar boundary layer, preventing solid particles from depositing at the bottom of the chamber and forming dead zones, and promoting uniform mixing of the liquid. This ensures that the composition and concentration of the liquid remain consistent before entering each distribution branch pipe, further ensuring the uniformity of the liquid properties ultimately distributed to each filter membrane assembly, thereby guaranteeing the stability of the overall filtration effect.

[0030] Other advantages, objectives and features of this invention will be partly apparent from the following description, and partly understood by those skilled in the art through study and practice of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment of this utility model.

[0032] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the arc-shaped guide plate in this utility model.

[0033] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of the annular liquid distribution cavity in this utility model.

[0034] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the liquid collection hopper in this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, so that those skilled in the art can implement it based on the description.

[0036] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, this utility model provides a mulberry leaf extract concentration device, including an extraction tank, a filtration assembly, and a concentration tank connected in sequence; the filtration assembly includes a vertically arranged filter cylinder 1, with an inlet 11 at the top and an outlet at the bottom; a primary filtration mechanism and a secondary filtration mechanism are arranged sequentially inside the filter cylinder 1 along the material flow direction; the primary filtration mechanism is a horizontally arranged rotary filter screen 2, the edge of which slides against the inner wall of the filter cylinder, and an upwardly protruding arc-shaped guide plate 3 is coaxially arranged at its bottom; the arc-shaped guide plate is a spherical convex structure with the axis of the rotary filter screen as the center, and the radial direction of the arc-shaped guide plate is... The size is smaller than the radial dimension of the screen surface of the rotary filter screen, and a gap is left between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder; the secondary filtration mechanism includes multiple vertically arranged folded filter membrane assemblies 7, which are evenly distributed relative to the axis of the filter cylinder. The folded filter membrane assemblies are connected to the inner wall of the filter cylinder. The liquid collecting hopper 8 has an inverted conical structure, and the top opening diameter of the liquid collecting hopper is adapted to the inner diameter of the filter cylinder. The bottom of the liquid collecting hopper is connected to the discharge port of the filter cylinder, and the discharge port of the filter cylinder is connected to the discharge pipe 10; the extraction tank is connected to the inlet of the filter cylinder, and the discharge pipe is connected to the concentration tank.

[0037] The specific implementation process of the mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment described in this utility model is as follows: First, mulberry leaves and solvent are extracted in an extraction tank to obtain a mixed extract containing solid debris. This mixed extract is then piped to the feed inlet at the top of the filter cylinder.

[0038] After the extract enters the filter cylinder, it first reaches the primary filtration mechanism. The primary filtration mechanism consists of a horizontally positioned rotary filter screen. A motor drives this screen to rotate slowly around its axis. Most of the coarse mulberry leaf residue and larger fiber particles in the extract are trapped by the screen surface. The continuous rotation of the screen surface effectively prevents excessive buildup of the filter cake layer, reduces clogging, and allows the trapped solids to be discharged in a timely manner. The filtrate passing through the screen flows downwards.

[0039] The filtrate then drips or flows onto an arc-shaped guide plate located directly below the rotary filter screen. This guide plate is an upwardly convex spherical structure, with its center coinciding with the axis of the rotary filter screen. After the filtrate falls into the area near the apex of the convex surface of the guide plate, it naturally and gently diffuses and flows towards its surrounding edges under the influence of gravity and the spherical guiding effect, effectively preventing the liquid flow from concentrating and impacting vertically downwards. Finally, the liquid flows out in a curtain-like manner at a relatively low flow rate from the annular gap of eight to fifteen millimeters between the outer edge of the guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder. There is an 8-15 mm gap between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder, and the distance between the apex of the convex surface of the arc-shaped guide plate and the screen surface of the rotary filter screen is 5-10 mm.

[0040] The liquid then enters the secondary filtration zone. The secondary filtration mechanism consists of multiple vertically arranged pleated membrane assemblies, evenly distributed around the axis of the filter cylinder. The evenly distributed liquid flow is allocated to each pleated membrane assembly. These membranes possess a large surface area and precise pore size, effectively intercepting fine suspended particles and colloidal substances, thus achieving fine filtration and obtaining highly clear mulberry leaf filtrate.

[0041] The clarified filtrate, after fine filtration, is finally collected in a collection hopper located at the bottom of the filter cylinder. This collection hopper is designed with an inverted conical structure, its large-diameter top seamlessly connecting to the inner wall of the filter cylinder, ensuring effective collection of all filtrate. Guided by the inverted conical structure, the collected filtrate flows towards the bottom center and finally exits from the outlet of the filter cylinder. It then flows through a discharge pipe into a subsequent concentration tank for further concentration, ultimately producing mulberry leaf extract.

[0042] Existing technology employs a two-stage fixed screen filtration system for mulberry leaf extract. The first stage uses a coarse screen, and the second stage uses a fine screen or a simply configured filter bag, with the liquid flowing downwards by gravity. Compared to this existing technology, the advantages of this invention are: First, in the primary filtration method, the existing technology uses a fixed screen, which is easily clogged by the sticky substances of mulberry leaves, requiring frequent shutdowns for cleaning. This invention uses a rotating filter screen, whose dynamic filtration method effectively avoids filter pore clogging, achieving continuous and efficient solid-liquid separation, reducing maintenance frequency and loss of effective components. Second, in the connection between the primary and secondary filtration stages, in the existing technology, the liquid flow after primary filtration falls directly and disorderly onto the surface of the secondary filter screen, resulting in a large impact force and extremely uneven distribution, leading to localized overload and low efficiency in the secondary filtration stage. This invention incorporates an arc-shaped guide plate, which transforms the vertically downward impact flow into a horizontal, uniform flow, forming a stable annular liquid curtain, creating stable and uniform feeding conditions for the secondary filtration stage. Third, in terms of the composition of the secondary filtration, this utility model adopts multiple vertically arranged folded filter membrane components and distributes them evenly, which greatly increases the effective filtration area, achieves higher filtration accuracy, larger throughput, and longer filter membrane life.

[0043] In summary, this invention systematically solves the technical problems of easy clogging, low efficiency, and poor filtration effect of traditional equipment by combining rotary filtration, arc-shaped flow guidance, and precision filter membrane, thus achieving efficient, stable, and high-quality filtration of mulberry leaf extract.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration device, the spherical convex structure of the arc-shaped guide plate 3 is provided with 3-4 radially evenly distributed guide grooves 18. The guide grooves extend from the apex of the convex surface of the arc-shaped guide plate to the outer edge, and the depth of the guide grooves gradually increases from the apex to the edge.

[0045] When the filtrate falls from the rotary filter screen onto the surface of the arc-shaped guide plate, uneven flow easily occurs on the smooth spherical surface due to the high viscosity of the mulberry leaf extract. To solve this problem, three radially evenly distributed guide grooves are set on the spherical convex structure of the arc-shaped guide plate.

[0046] These flow channels begin at the convex apex of the curved guide plate and extend to its outer edge. The depth of the flow channels is designed to gradually increase from the apex to the edge. When the filtrate falls into the central area of ​​the guide plate, the flow channels immediately provide clear path guidance for the liquid flow. Under the influence of gravity and surface tension, the liquid naturally flows in three directions along the three flow channels.

[0047] Because the depth of the guide channels gradually increases from the center to the outer edge, a natural flow gradient is formed, allowing the liquid to flow to the edge more quickly and smoothly. The three guide channels evenly distribute the liquid to each sector of the guide plate, preventing the liquid from accumulating or stagnating in any area. Finally, when the liquid flows out from the annular gap between the outer edge of the guide plate and the cylinder wall, it forms an annular liquid curtain of uniform thickness and stable flow rate.

[0048] Regarding flow guidance, smooth guide plates rely on the inherent flow characteristics of the liquid, which may lead to uncertain flow paths, uneven liquid distribution, and stagnation in some areas. This invention, by setting radial guide channels, provides a clear physical guiding path for liquid flow, ensuring that the liquid can diffuse uniformly in a predetermined direction. In terms of flow efficiency, liquid faces greater resistance and slower flow velocity when flowing on smooth curved surfaces, especially when processing high-viscosity mulberry leaf extract. The guide channel design of this invention reduces the contact area between the liquid and the plate surface, lowering flow resistance. Simultaneously, the gradually changing depth structure creates a natural flow gradient, significantly improving the efficiency of liquid diffusion from the center to the edge. Regarding the quality of the outflowing liquid curtain, due to uneven liquid distribution, the liquid curtain flowing from the edge of the guide plate may exhibit varying thickness and large flow fluctuations. This invention, through the uniform distribution effect of multiple guide channels, ensures good consistency and stability of the liquid curtain flowing from the annular gap, providing better feeding conditions for the next stage of filtration.

[0049] In summary, this utility model effectively solves the technical problem of uneven flow and stagnation of high-viscosity liquids on the surface of the guide plate by setting a specially designed guide groove on the arc-shaped guide plate, realizing the rapid, uniform and stable diffusion of liquid from the center to the edge, and improving the stability and reliability of the entire filtration system.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration device, an annular liquid distribution chamber 5 is provided in the filter cylinder between the arc-shaped guide plate and the folded filter membrane assembly. The annular liquid distribution chamber is a circular cavity structure coaxial with the filter cylinder. The top opening of the annular liquid distribution chamber completely covers the gap between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder, and the edge of the top opening of the annular liquid distribution chamber is sealed to the inner wall of the filter cylinder.

[0051] After being guided by the arc-shaped baffle, the liquid flows out in a curtain-like manner from the annular gap between its outer edge and the inner wall of the filter cylinder. At this point, an annular liquid distribution chamber, coaxial with the filter cylinder, is located directly below the baffle. This liquid distribution chamber has a circular annular cavity structure, and the size of its top opening completely covers and receives all the liquid flowing down from the aforementioned annular gap.

[0052] The top opening edge of the annular liquid distribution chamber is sealed to the inner wall of the filter cylinder, ensuring that all liquid flowing out from the guide plate is completely collected into the chamber without any leakage or sideflow. When liquid enters the annular liquid distribution chamber, this sealed annular space effectively buffers and stabilizes the liquid flow. The kinetic energy of the liquid flow is effectively reduced, and potential eddies and splashes are suppressed.

[0053] The liquid is temporarily stored within the chamber and forms a stable liquid level, providing a basis for pressure equalization in the subsequent distribution process. This transition process changes the liquid flow from disordered to ordered, ensuring that the liquid is evenly distributed to each pleated filter membrane module.

[0054] In some embodiments, an open space can be directly provided below the guide plate to allow the liquid to fall freely to the secondary filter element, or a simple collection funnel can be used to directly guide the flow. Compared with the above methods, the advantages of this invention are as follows: First, in terms of liquid flow transition, allowing the liquid to fall freely results in the liquid flow maintaining a large kinetic energy, which can impact the surface of the downstream filter membrane, causing splashing and flow turbulence. This invention, through the collection and buffering effect of the annular liquid distribution chamber, effectively eliminates the kinetic energy of the liquid flow, enabling a smooth transition and providing conditions for subsequent uniform distribution. Second, in terms of flow state control, the above methods cannot effectively manage the liquid flow, and the direct impact of the liquid on the filter membrane easily leads to uneven flow distribution. The annular cavity of this invention can redistribute the liquid, eliminate dead zones, and ensure that the liquid reaches a consistent flow state before distribution. Third, in terms of system stability, the direct impact of the liquid flow in the above methods can cause large fluctuations in the filtration process, affecting the consistency of the filtration effect. This invention, through the pressure stabilizing effect of the annular liquid distribution chamber, provides a continuous and stable liquid supply, ensuring the smooth operation of the secondary filtration process.

[0055] In summary, this invention solves the technical problem of unstable liquid flow transition and large impact during the transition from primary to secondary filtration by using an annular liquid distribution chamber. It achieves a smooth liquid flow transition and effective buffering, providing conditions for subsequent precise distribution and significantly improving the stability and reliability of the entire filtration system.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration device, the bottom of the annular liquid distribution chamber 5 is provided with a plurality of liquid distribution branch pipes 6 evenly distributed along the circumference. The number of liquid distribution branch pipes is consistent with the number of folded filter membrane components and corresponds one-to-one. Each liquid distribution branch pipe 6 has a trumpet-shaped liquid distribution port 17 at its end, and the opening direction of the liquid distribution port is directly opposite to the central axis of the corresponding folded filter membrane component.

[0057] On the bottom circumference of the annular liquid distribution chamber, several liquid distribution branches are evenly arranged. The number of branches corresponds to the number of pleated filter membrane modules in the secondary filtration area. Each liquid distribution branch is connected to a funnel-shaped liquid distribution port at its end. The opening direction of these liquid distribution ports has been precisely adjusted so that they are aligned with the central axis of the corresponding pleated filter membrane module.

[0058] When liquid flows from the annular distribution chamber into each distribution branch pipe, the funnel-shaped distribution port effectively reduces the outlet velocity of the liquid, allowing it to flow out more gently. Since the distribution port is directly opposite the center of the filter membrane assembly, the liquid can flow evenly downwards along the central axis of the filter membrane, ensuring full utilization of the entire filtration surface. Furthermore, a 3-5 mm gap is maintained between the edge of the distribution port and the outer wall of the pleated filter membrane assembly. This appropriate 3-5 mm gap ensures smooth liquid flow while preventing direct impact and splashing of the liquid against the outer wall of the filter membrane.

[0059] Traditional filtration equipment typically employs open-type spraying or simple conduit flow methods, where liquid is often sprayed directly onto the filter membrane surface from a height or discharged centrally through a single outlet. This approach easily leads to uneven liquid distribution, with some areas of the filter membrane being overloaded while others fail to function effectively. Direct impact of liquid onto the filter membrane surface also generates splashing and bubbles, affecting filtration efficiency. This invention utilizes a combination of distribution branches and funnel-shaped distribution outlets, enabling precise directional liquid distribution. Each filter membrane has an independent distribution channel, ensuring balanced flow distribution. The funnel-shaped outlet effectively reduces the liquid flow velocity, allowing the liquid to smoothly and gently contact the filter membrane surface, avoiding impact and splashing. This design ensures that all filter membranes operate at their optimal working condition, improving filtration efficiency and lifespan.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the mulberry leaf extract concentration device further includes an upwardly extending annular baffle 14 at the top of the annular liquid distribution chamber, and the inner diameter of the annular baffle is consistent with the outer edge diameter of the arc-shaped guide plate.

[0061] At the top edge of the annular liquid distribution chamber, an annular baffle with a height of five to eight millimeters is provided extending upwards. The inner diameter of this annular baffle is precisely designed to perfectly match the outer edge diameter of the arc-shaped guide plate, forming a continuous sealing structure.

[0062] As liquid flows out from the annular gap between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder, the annular baffle is positioned precisely in the lower path of the liquid flow. The height of the annular baffle is 5-8 mm, sufficient to completely intercept all falling liquid, ensuring that no liquid can bypass the annular distribution chamber. All liquid flowing out from the guide plate is effectively intercepted by the annular baffle and guided into the internal space of the annular distribution chamber.

[0063] Common filtration equipment often has a gap between the guide plate and the collection chamber, which can easily cause liquid to splash or slide down the wall during flow, resulting in some liquid failing to enter the intended collection channel. This liquid loss not only reduces collection efficiency but can also cause internal contamination and cleaning difficulties. Incomplete liquid collection also affects the subsequent distribution process, leading to unstable filtration results. This invention uses an annular baffle to guide and collect the liquid. The annular baffle can intercept all liquid flowing out of the guide plate, preventing liquid bypass and splashing. This design ensures the integrity of liquid collection, guaranteeing uniform distribution later. Simultaneously, the sealed collection method avoids internal contamination and reduces cleaning and maintenance workload.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the mulberry leaf extract concentration device further includes several turbulence protrusions 15 evenly distributed along the circumference on the inner wall of the annular liquid distribution chamber 5, which are hemispherical in shape.

[0065] On the inner wall of the annular liquid distribution chamber, multiple hemispherical turbulence protrusions are evenly distributed along the circumference. The height of the turbulence protrusions is 2-3 mm. These protrusions, with a height of two to three millimeters, are arranged at regular intervals along the entire circumference of the inner wall of the chamber.

[0066] As the mulberry leaf extract flows within the annular distribution chamber, the liquid comes into contact with these hemispherical turbulence protrusions. These protrusions disrupt the laminar flow near the chamber walls, generating subtle eddies and disturbances. This disturbance induces slight mixing within the chamber, preventing solid particles from depositing at the bottom.

[0067] Because the turbulence protrusions are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction, this mixing effect occurs uniformly throughout the entire annular liquid distribution cavity, ensuring that the composition of each part of the liquid remains consistent and that there are no local concentration differences.

[0068] Traditional filtration equipment typically employs a smooth inner wall design for the liquid distribution chamber. High-viscosity mulberry leaf extract easily forms a stagnant layer on the chamber wall during flow, causing solid particles to gradually settle at the bottom. This settling leads to uneven liquid composition, with some areas having higher concentrations and others lower. After prolonged operation, deposits can also clog the chamber, requiring frequent shutdowns for cleaning. This invention effectively improves the liquid flow by incorporating evenly distributed turbulence protrusions on the inner wall of the annular liquid distribution chamber. These protrusions break up the laminar boundary layer, preventing solid particle settling and promoting uniform liquid mixing. This design ensures that the liquid entering each distribution branch has a consistent composition concentration, improving the stability of filtration quality. Simultaneously, it avoids the problem of deposit accumulation, reduces equipment maintenance needs, and extends continuous operating time.

[0069] In a preferred embodiment, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration device, the edge of the arc-shaped guide plate 3 is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the filter cylinder by 3-4 L-shaped fixing brackets 4 evenly distributed along the circumference. The horizontal section of the L-shaped fixing bracket is welded and fixed to the edge of the arc-shaped guide plate, and the vertical section is bolted to the inner wall of the filter cylinder. The overall height of the fixing bracket does not exceed the convex vertex of the arc-shaped guide plate.

[0070] Inside the filter cartridge, the edge of the arc-shaped guide plate is connected to the inner wall of the cartridge via three L-shaped fixing brackets evenly distributed along the circumference. The horizontal section of each L-shaped fixing bracket is fixed to the lower surface of the guide plate edge by welding, while the vertical section is detachably connected to the inner wall of the filter cartridge by bolts.

[0071] The highest point of these fixed supports is always lower than the convex apex of the curved guide vane, ensuring that the supports are completely hidden below the working surface of the guide vane. This installation method ensures both the stable and reliable installation of the guide vane and that its smooth and continuous spherical structure remains undamaged.

[0072] Common methods of fixing guide vanes often employ support rod structures that are directly fixed from above the vane surface. These support rods penetrate the working surface of the guide vane, disrupting its smooth continuity. This structure creates obstacles in the liquid flow path, generating flow resistance, inducing eddies and vortices, and causing impurities to accumulate around the support rods and adhere to the walls. This not only affects the smoothness of liquid flow but also creates unsanitary corners, increasing cleaning difficulty. This invention utilizes an L-shaped bracket installation method, cleverly concealing all support structures below the working surface of the guide vane, completely avoiding interference from the support components to the mainstream liquid. The guide vane maintains a complete, smooth spherical surface, allowing the liquid to flow smoothly along the designed path without generating eddies or impurity accumulation. This structure ensures both the stability of the support and the optimal performance of fluid flow, while also facilitating disassembly and maintenance, improving the practicality and reliability of the equipment.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration device, the side wall of the filter cylinder is provided with detachable cleaning doors 12 and 13 corresponding to the primary filtration mechanism and the secondary filtration mechanism, respectively.

[0074] On the side wall of the filter cartridge, there are removable cleaning doors corresponding to the installation areas of the primary and secondary filtration mechanisms, respectively. These cleaning doors are designed with a sealed structure and are reliably connected to the cartridge with fasteners to ensure that no leakage occurs during equipment operation.

[0075] When maintenance and cleaning are required, operators simply need to open the cleaning door at the appropriate location to directly access the internal rotary filter screen or pleated filter membrane assembly. Through the cleaning door opening, accumulated filter cake can be easily removed, the screen cleaned, or damaged filter membrane assemblies replaced. After maintenance, simply reinstall the cleaning door to restore normal equipment operation.

[0076] Traditional filtration equipment typically employs a monolithic structure, requiring extensive disassembly to clean or replace internal filter elements, sometimes necessitating the removal of the entire top or end cover. This maintenance method is not only time-consuming and labor-intensive but also disrupts production processes, severely impacting equipment efficiency. Frequent disassembly and reassembly can also damage seals, increasing the risk of leakage. This invention provides a convenient access for equipment maintenance by incorporating a removable cleaning door. Operators can quickly open the corresponding cleaning door to access the specific area requiring maintenance without extensive disassembly of the entire machine. This design significantly reduces maintenance time, lowers labor intensity, and allows for faster resumption of production. The cleaning door simplifies daily maintenance, greatly enhancing the equipment's usability and maintainability.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration device, the inner wall of the liquid collecting hopper 8 is provided with a plurality of guide ribs 19 evenly distributed along the circumference. The height of the guide ribs is the same as the height of the liquid collecting hopper, and the cross-section of the guide ribs is triangular.

[0078] On the inner wall surface of the liquid collecting hopper, there are several guide ribs evenly distributed along the circumference. The installation height of these guide ribs is consistent with the overall height of the liquid collecting hopper, extending from the top to the bottom of the hopper. The cross-section of the guide ribs is triangular, with its pointed corners pointing towards the central axis of the liquid collecting hopper.

[0079] As the filtrate collects in the collecting hopper and flows downwards, these guide ribs effectively disrupt any potential swirling flow. The triangular cross-section of the guide ribs transforms the tangential flow of the liquid into a stable vertical flow, eliminating eddies. The liquid flows smoothly downwards along the channels formed by the guide ribs and is eventually discharged from the outlet pipe at the bottom.

[0080] Conventional liquid collecting hoppers typically feature smooth inner walls, which can easily create vortices as liquid flows from the periphery towards the center. These vortices can trap air into the discharge pipe, leading to gas-liquid mixing in subsequent processes. The presence of air bubbles affects the heat transfer efficiency of the concentration process, reducing product quality. This invention effectively solves the vortex problem by incorporating guide ribs on the inner wall of the collecting hopper. The triangular cross-section of the guide ribs efficiently converts rotational kinetic energy into downward flow kinetic energy, preventing vortex formation. This design ensures smooth and orderly liquid flow, avoids air entrainment, improves the heat transfer efficiency of subsequent concentration processes, and guarantees product quality stability.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, in the mulberry leaf extract concentration device, the bottom of the liquid collection hopper 8 is provided with a conical filter screen 9, with the apex of the conical filter screen facing upward.

[0082] A conical filter screen is installed at the bottom of the liquid collection hopper. The filter screen is installed with the apex facing upwards, and its mesh size is one to two millimeters, which can effectively intercept fine particles.

[0083] As the filtrate flows from the collection hopper to the discharge pipe, it must undergo final filtration through this conical filter screen. The conical structure provides a larger effective filtration area, reduces the flow rate, and improves filtration efficiency. Impurities trapped inside remain on the outside of the filter screen, which can be easily removed for cleaning or replacement during regular maintenance via a snap-fit ​​mechanism.

[0084] Conventional filtration equipment typically lacks final protection measures at the discharge port or uses a simple flat plate filter. This design suffers from problems such as small filtration area, easy clogging, and difficult cleaning. When debris or agglomerated colloidal substances accidentally detach during equipment operation, these impurities directly enter the concentration process, forming scale on the heating surface, affecting heat transfer efficiency, and contaminating the final product.

[0085] The conical filter structure used in this invention offers significant advantages. The conical design increases the effective filtration area, reduces filtration resistance, and extends the cleaning cycle. The one- to two-millimeter mesh size effectively intercepts fine impurities, ensuring the cleanliness of the liquid entering the concentration tank. The detachable connection via snap-fit ​​makes cleaning and replacement of the filter simple and quick. This protective measure effectively protects downstream process equipment, improves product quality, and reduces equipment maintenance workload.

[0086] Although embodiments of this utility model have been disclosed above, they are not limited to the applications listed in the specification and embodiments. It can be applied to various fields suitable for this utility model. Other modifications can be readily implemented by those skilled in the art. Therefore, without departing from the general concept defined by the claims and their equivalents, this utility model is not limited to the specific details and examples shown and described herein.

Claims

1. A mulberry leaf extract concentration device, characterized in that, The system includes an extraction tank, a filtration assembly, and a concentration tank connected in sequence. The filtration assembly includes a vertically arranged filter cylinder with an inlet at the top and an outlet at the bottom. A primary filtration mechanism and a secondary filtration mechanism are sequentially arranged within the filter cylinder along the material flow direction. The primary filtration mechanism is a horizontally arranged rotary filter screen, the edge of which slides against the inner wall of the filter cylinder. A coaxially arranged upward-convex arc-shaped guide plate is located at its bottom. The arc-shaped guide plate is a spherical convex structure centered on the axis of the rotary filter screen, and its radial dimension is smaller than the screen surface of the rotary filter screen. The radial dimension is such that a gap is left between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder; the secondary filtration mechanism includes multiple vertically arranged folded filter membrane assemblies, which are evenly distributed relative to the axis of the filter cylinder. The folded filter membrane assemblies are connected to the inner wall of the filter cylinder. The liquid collection hopper has an inverted conical structure, and the top opening diameter of the liquid collection hopper is adapted to the inner diameter of the filter cylinder. The bottom of the liquid collection hopper is connected to the discharge port of the filter cylinder, and the discharge port of the filter cylinder is connected to the discharge pipe; the extraction tank is connected to the inlet of the filter cylinder, and the discharge pipe is connected to the concentration tank.

2. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spherical convex structure of the arc-shaped guide plate is provided with 3-4 guide grooves evenly distributed in the radial direction. The guide grooves extend from the apex of the convex surface of the arc-shaped guide plate to the outer edge, and the depth of the guide grooves gradually increases from the apex to the edge.

3. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filter cylinder is provided with an annular liquid distribution chamber between the arc-shaped guide plate and the folded filter membrane assembly. The annular liquid distribution chamber is a circular cavity structure coaxial with the filter cylinder. The top opening of the annular liquid distribution chamber completely covers the gap between the outer edge of the arc-shaped guide plate and the inner wall of the filter cylinder, and the edge of the top opening of the annular liquid distribution chamber is sealed to the inner wall of the filter cylinder.

4. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that, The bottom of the annular liquid distribution chamber is provided with several liquid distribution branches evenly distributed along the circumference. The number of liquid distribution branches is consistent with the number of folded filter membrane assemblies and corresponds one-to-one. Each liquid distribution branch is provided with a trumpet-shaped liquid distribution port at its end, and the opening direction of the liquid distribution port is directly opposite the central axis of the corresponding folded filter membrane assembly.

5. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The top of the annular liquid distribution chamber is also provided with an upward-extending annular baffle, and the inner diameter of the annular baffle is consistent with the outer edge diameter of the arc-shaped guide plate.

6. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment according to claim 4, characterized in that, The inner wall of the annular liquid distribution cavity is also provided with several turbulence protrusions evenly distributed along the circumference, and has a hemispherical structure.

7. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The edge of the arc-shaped guide plate is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the filter cylinder by 3-4 L-shaped fixing brackets evenly distributed along the circumference. The horizontal section of the L-shaped fixing bracket is welded to the edge of the arc-shaped guide plate, and the vertical section is bolted to the inner wall of the filter cylinder. The overall height of the fixing bracket does not exceed the convex vertex of the arc-shaped guide plate.

8. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The filter cylinder sidewall is equipped with detachable cleaning doors corresponding to the primary and secondary filtration mechanisms.

9. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the liquid collecting hopper is provided with several guide ribs evenly distributed along the circumference. The height of the guide ribs is the same as the height of the liquid collecting hopper, and the cross-section of the guide ribs is triangular.

10. The mulberry leaf extract concentration equipment as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The bottom of the liquid collecting hopper is provided with a conical filter screen, with the apex of the conical filter screen facing upwards.

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