Raw material processing equipment and programs for raw material processing equipment

Abstract

We provide smart and user-friendly raw material processing equipment while using PLCs, which can keep manufacturing costs low. [Solution] The PLC 40, which receives signals from a sensor and controls the operation of one or more components constituting the device, includes an operation flow storage unit 41 that stores operation flow data linking identifiers assigned to each of a plurality of processing steps with the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to each identifier; a temporary register unit 43 that receives identifiers and temporarily stores them; and an operation execution unit 44 that, when it receives a start signal to start a processing step, executes the operation flow of the processing step determined by a predetermined rule based on the identifiers stored in the temporary register unit 43 and the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit 41.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a raw material processing device and a program for a raw material processing device used in this device.

Background Art

[0002] As a conventional raw material processing device, as shown in Patent Document 1, for example, there is a mixer that puts raw materials such as minced meat, seasoning liquid, and shredded vegetables into a tub, and mixes them by rotating a screw in the tub to process them into hamburger materials or dumpling fillings.

[0003] This raw material processing device is configured such that after the raw materials are put in, stirring continues for the set time of the timer by pressing the stirring start button, then the tub is reversed to discharge the raw materials by pressing the discharge button, and finally the tub returns to its original position by pressing the return button.

[0004] More specifically, an operation program corresponding to each button is stored in the memory of the PLC, and the CPU and its peripheral devices cooperate according to the operation program corresponding to the operated button to execute a predetermined operation.

[0005] However, with such a configuration, in terms of software, for example, it is not possible to automatically shift from one process to the next, and in terms of hardware, it is necessary to provide separate buttons for each process, which is difficult to say is smart and user-friendly.

[0006] Of course, if a microcomputer is used instead of the PLC, the usability can be improved, but in this case, it will lead to an increase in manufacturing costs.

[0007] Note that the above problems occur commonly in various raw material processing devices, not limited to mixers, for example, grinders that cut flaky meat.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2005-334854 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0009] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide a smart and user-friendly raw material processing apparatus that uses a PLC, which can keep manufacturing costs low. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In other words, the raw material processing apparatus according to the present invention is a raw material processing apparatus that processes raw materials through a plurality of processing steps, and comprises one or more sensors and a PLC that receives signals from the sensors and controls the operation of one or more components that constitute the apparatus. Therefore, the raw material processing apparatus is characterized in that the PLC has an operation flow storage unit that stores operation flow data linking identifiers assigned to each of the plurality of processing steps with the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to each identifier; a temporary resist unit that receives the identifiers and temporarily stores them; and an operation execution unit that, when it receives a start signal to start the processing step, executes the operation flow of the processing step determined by a predetermined rule based on the identifiers stored in the temporary resist unit and the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit.

[0011] With a raw material processing apparatus configured in this way, for example, by using a signal indicating that the input raw material has reached a predetermined weight, or a signal indicating that the processing time has reached the timer's set time, as a start signal, the operation execution unit can be made to execute the operation of the next processing step upon receiving the start signal. This makes it possible to automatically transition from one process to the next. Furthermore, if, for example, pressing the start button outputs a start signal, the execution unit can be prompted to execute the next processing step upon receiving that start signal. This allows the system to advance to the next processing step each time a start button is pressed, eliminating the need to have separate start buttons for each processing step, as was done in the past. Thus, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a smart and user-friendly raw material processing apparatus in terms of both software and hardware, while using a PLC that can keep manufacturing costs low.

[0012] It is preferable that the identifiers can be arranged in a predetermined order, and that when the start signal is received, the operation execution unit executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier stored in the temporary resist unit. With this approach, by considering the processing steps corresponding to the identifier stored in the temporary resist section as completed, it is possible to reliably proceed to the next processing step after the completed one when a start signal is received.

[0013] Preferably, when the operation execution unit executes the operation flow of one processing step, the update unit further has an update unit that overwrites the identifier stored in the temporary register unit with the identifier corresponding to the one processing step and stores it. With this system, for example, pressing the start button initiates one processing step, and the identifier corresponding to that step is overwritten in the temporary register. Then, pressing the start button again initiates the next processing step, and the identifier corresponding to that step is overwritten in the temporary register. By repeating this process, the processing steps can be advanced one after another each time the same start button is pressed.

[0014] Preferably, the system further includes an input means for inputting the identifier from an external source and storing it in the temporary resist unit, and when the start signal is received, the operation execution unit executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the identifier input via the input means. With this approach, by inputting an identifier corresponding to any processing step in a series of processes from an external source, it becomes possible to start the operation from that specific processing step (i.e., from the middle of the series of processes).

[0015] It is preferable that by operating the input means, the identifier stored in the temporary register unit is replaced with the next identifier. This approach allows you to execute the desired processing steps while skipping unnecessary ones by replacing identifiers one by one.

[0016] Incidentally, the case in which we attempt to skip some processing steps by operating the input means described above is assumed to be a case where an abnormality occurs that necessitates stopping continuous operation. Therefore, it is preferable that the input means is displayed on the display in manual operation mode, in which one of the plurality of processing steps is performed manually, and is hidden in automatic operation mode, in which the plurality of processing steps are performed automatically. With this system, the input options are displayed when switching from continuous operation mode to manual operation mode. This means that the input options are displayed when operation is needed and hidden when operation is not required, ensuring ease of use while preventing accidental operation.

[0017] Preferably, the system further includes a display control unit that displays the name of the processing step corresponding to the identifier after it has been replaced by the operation of the input means. This approach allows users to operate the input devices while visually confirming which processing steps are being executed, resulting in improved usability.

[0018] The identifier can be arranged in a predetermined order, and it is preferable that another identifier can be added between the adjacent identifiers in the operation flow data. With such a configuration, a new processing step can be added by associating the newly added identifier with the operation flow of the new processing step and storing it in the operation flow storage unit.

[0019] It is preferable that each identifier corresponding to the plurality of processing steps is a numerical value and includes those that are separated by two or more when arranged in ascending or descending order and are adjacent to each other as identifiers. In this case, a new processing step can be added more easily without using an ASCII code or the like.

[0020] It is preferable to include a tank into which the raw material is introduced and a part of the cooking process necessary for processing the raw material into food is performed, and processing means for stirring, mixing, cutting, heating, cooling, pressurizing, depressurizing, or vibrating the raw material in the tank. In this case, the present invention can be applied to a mixer, a grinder, or the like.

[0021] Moreover, the program for a raw material processing device according to the present invention is a program used for a raw material processing device that processes a raw material through a plurality of processing steps. The raw material processing device includes one or more sensors and a PLC that receives signals from the sensors and controls the operations of one or more components constituting the device. The program causes the PLC to function as an operation flow storage unit that stores operation flow data associating the identifiers assigned to each of the plurality of processing steps with the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to each identifier, a temporary register unit that receives the identifier and temporarily stores it, and an operation execution unit that executes the operation flow of the processing step determined by a predetermined rule based on the identifier stored in the temporary register unit and the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit when a start signal for starting the processing step is received. According to such a program for a raw material processing device, the same operational effects as those of the above-described raw material processing device can be achieved.

Effects of the Invention

[0022] According to the present invention configured as described above, it is possible to provide a smart and user-friendly raw material processing device while using a PLC that can suppress manufacturing costs at a low price.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] A diagram showing a raw material processing device in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the posture of a tank in the same embodiment. [Figure 3] A diagram showing processing means inside the tank in the same embodiment. [Figure 4] A functional block diagram showing the functions of the PLC in the same embodiment. [Figure 5] A flowchart showing the operation of the raw material processing device in the same embodiment. [Figure 6] A flowchart showing the operation of the raw material processing device in other embodiments. [Figure 7] A diagram showing the display content by the display control unit in other embodiments. [Figure 8] A diagram showing the display content by the display control unit in other embodiments.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a raw material processing device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0025] The raw material processing device is, for example, a mixer that mixes a plurality of types of raw materials, and here it will be described as being used for mixing minced meat, seasonings, breadcrumbs, etc. to process them into hamburger materials.

[0026] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, this raw material processing apparatus 100 comprises a bed 10 having a plurality of legs 11, a tank 20 into which raw materials are introduced and pivotally supported by support bases 12 provided at both ends of the bed 10, processing means 30 for processing the raw materials in the tank 20, a drive system (not shown) provided inside the support bases 12, and a programmable logic controller 40 (hereinafter referred to as PLC40) that controls various functions.

[0027] As shown in Figure 2, the tank 20 is configured to be rotatable between a steady position X when raw materials are introduced or processed, and an overturned position Y when processed raw materials are discharged.

[0028] More specifically, the tank 20 is pivotally supported on a support shaft 21 that is rotatably supported on the aforementioned support base 12, and has an opening 22 that faces upward in a steady position X and diagonally downward in an overturned position Y. In addition, the raw material processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment is provided with a safety cover 23 that opens and closes the opening 22 of the tank 20, as shown in Figure 1.

[0029] The processing means 30 is installed inside the tank 20 to stir and mix multiple types of raw materials, and as shown in Figure 3, it has a rotating shaft 31 that penetrates the inside of the tank 20 and a plurality of stirring blades 32 fixed to this rotating shaft 31.

[0030] The drive system includes a drive source for the tank 20 to rotate the tank between a steady position X and an overturned position Y, and a drive source for the machining means 30 to operate the machining means 30. The drive source for the tank is, in this case, a motor that rotates the support shaft 21 as described above, and the drive source for the machining means is, in this case, a motor that rotates the rotating shaft 31 as described above. These drive sources are controlled by a PLC 40, which will be described later.

[0031] The raw material processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment is further equipped with a plurality of sensors, and the PLC 40 receives signals from these sensors and controls the operation of one or more components that make up the apparatus.

[0032] Examples of multiple sensors include, as shown in Figure 4, a weight sensor Z1 for detecting the weight of the raw material introduced into the tank 20, an open / close sensor Z2 for detecting whether the safety cover 23 is open or closed, a posture sensor Z3 for detecting whether the tank 20 is in a steady position X or an overturned position Y, and a timer Z4 for detecting when a predetermined time has elapsed.

[0033] The weight sensor Z1 could be a load cell provided on the leg portion 11, the opening / closing sensor Z2 could be a magnetic sensor or optical sensor provided on the safety cover 23 side or the tank 20 side, and the attitude sensor Z3 could be an encoder that detects the rotation angle of the tank 20.

[0034] Furthermore, one or more components can be identified, as shown in Figure 4, as a safety cover 23, a tank 20, and an automatic minced meat dispenser 101.

[0035] The PLC40 is physically equipped with a CPU, memory, and other components, and is housed within the control panel. This PLC40 is a sequencer that sequentially controls various components to be controlled by the CPU and its peripheral devices working together according to a program written in ladder logic stored in the memory.

[0036] Here, the raw material processing apparatus 100 of this embodiment processes raw materials through a plurality of processing steps, as shown in the flowchart of Figure 5. Broadly speaking, it includes a processing step of putting minced meat into the tank 20, a processing step of putting seasonings into the tank 20, a processing step of putting breadcrumbs into the tank 20, a processing step of mixing the plurality of raw materials put into the tank 20 while stirring, and a processing step of discharging the mixed raw materials.

[0037] The order in which the ground meat, seasonings, and breadcrumbs are added is not limited to that shown in the diagram and can be changed as appropriate. Similarly, the timing and number of times the ingredients are stirred and mixed are not limited to those shown in the diagram and can be changed as appropriate.

[0038] As shown in Figure 5, each of the above-mentioned processing steps is assigned a different identifier in advance.

[0039] In this configuration, the PLC40 of this embodiment includes an operation flow storage unit 41 that stores operation flow data linking the identifiers mentioned above with the operation flows of the processing steps corresponding to each of those identifiers, as shown in Figure 4.

[0040] An identifier consists of one or more numbers, letters, hiragana, katakana, kanji, or symbols, and can be arranged in a predetermined order. This predetermined order may include ascending order (smallest to largest), descending order (largest to smallest), or order according to ASCII code.

[0041] The identifiers in this embodiment are numerical values, and when sorted in ascending or descending order, they include identifiers that are two or more numbers apart from each other as adjacent identifiers. More specifically, as shown in Figure 5, adjacent identifiers include numbers that are one number apart, such as even numbers together or odd numbers together (though not shown). However, it is not necessary for all identifiers to be numbers that are one number apart; some identifiers may be consecutive numbers.

[0042] The operation flow consists of one or more operation steps. Examples of operation steps include operation steps that operate components of the apparatus, such as the safety cover 23, the tank 20, and the processing means 30, in predetermined actions, and determination steps that determine whether predetermined conditions are met, such as whether the input weight has reached the target weight or whether the stirring time has reached a set time.

[0043] Furthermore, each operation flow (in other words, each processing step) is either a flow that is initiated when the start button B is pressed, as shown in Figure 5, or a flow (step) that is initiated when it is determined that a predetermined condition has been met in the determination step included in the previous operation flow.

[0044] As shown in Figure 4, the PLC40 of this embodiment includes a start signal receiving unit 42 that receives a start signal to start a processing step, a temporary register unit 43 that temporarily stores the identifiers mentioned above, and an operation execution unit 44 that executes a predetermined operation flow based on the identifiers stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0045] The start signal receiving unit 42 receives the start signal output when the start button B is operated (pressed). In addition, the start signal receiving unit 42 in this embodiment also receives signals output from the various sensors described above as start signals.

[0046] The start signal output by operating the start button B is also used here as an automatic driving signal to indicate the start of automatic driving, and this automatic driving signal is stored in the automatic driving signal storage unit 45.

[0047] In other words, when the automatic operation signal storage unit 45 stores an automatic operation signal, the raw material processing apparatus 100 enters an automatic operation mode in which it sequentially executes the multiple processing steps described above. On the other hand, if, for example, one of the multiple processing steps is temporarily paused, the automatic operation signal storage unit 45 does not store an automatic operation signal.

[0048] The temporary register unit 43 is set in a predetermined area of ​​the memory and receives the identifiers mentioned above, and stores the received new identifiers while overwriting the old identifiers that are stored.

[0049] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, identifiers can also be input externally via input means such as a touch panel or keyboard, and identifiers input in this manner are also received and stored by the temporary register unit 43.

[0050] The operation execution unit 44 sequentially controls the operation of, for example, the safety cover 23, the tank 20, and the automatic minced meat dispenser 101 according to the operation flow.

[0051] Then, when the start signal receiving unit 42 receives a start signal, the operation execution unit 44 executes an operation flow of a processing step determined by a predetermined rule, based on the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 and the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit 41.

[0052] More specifically, when the start signal receiving unit 42 receives a start signal, the operation execution unit 44 checks whether an automatic operation signal is stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45, and also refers to an identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0053] In the automatic operation mode, in which multiple processing steps are executed sequentially, the automatic operation signal is stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45. In this case, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0054] On the other hand, for example, when the system is temporarily paused in the middle of multiple processing steps, the automatic operation signal is not stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45. In this case, for example, if an arbitrary identifier is entered via the input means IN and the start button B is operated, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0055] As shown in Figure 4, the PLC40 of this embodiment further includes an update unit 46 that, when the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of one processing step, overwrites the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 with the identifier corresponding to the processing step and stores it there.

[0056] To explain in more detail, as shown in Figure 5, for example, when the start button B is pressed and the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step of adding minced meat, the update unit 46 stores the identifier

[0002] corresponding to this processing step in the temporary register unit 43. Note that this operation by the update unit 46 is common to other processing steps as well.

[0057] As shown in Figure 4, the PLC40 of this embodiment further includes a display control unit 47 that displays the processing step or operation step in progress on a display D or the like, and a notification unit 48 that notifies when the operation flow of a processing step has been completed.

[0058] The notification unit 48 switches the illumination state of the start button B, for example, when a processing step is completed. Specific notification methods include turning the start button B on, turning it off, making it blink, or changing the illumination color.

[0059] When the notification unit 48 notifies that the operation flow of one processing step has finished, the system automatically moves to the next processing step of the first processing step by operating the start button B again.

[0060] The specific operation flow controlled by the PLC40 configured in this way is not particularly limited, but one example will be briefly explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 5.

[0061] First, in the initial state after power is turned on, the temporary register unit 43 stores the identifier

[0000] , and the automatic operation signal is stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45.

[0062] When the start button B is operated (S1), the automatic operation signal is stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45, and the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the identifier following

[0000] stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0063] Here, since the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit 41 does not include

[0001] , the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow corresponding to the next processing step

[0002] , namely the minced meat input step.

[0064] At this time, the update unit 46 updates the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 from

[0000] to

[0002] and stores it.

[0065] In the process of adding ground meat, the operation execution unit 44 opens the safety cover 23 (S2), as shown in Figure 5, and then determines whether the tank 20 is in a steady position X based on the output value from the encoder, which is the attitude sensor Z3 described above (S3). If the operation execution unit 44 determines in S3 that the tank 20 is in a steady position X, it controls the automatic ground meat dispenser 101 to start dispensing the ground meat (S4). On the other hand, if the tank 20 is not in a steady position X in S3, the operation execution unit 44 inverts the tank 20 before dispensing the ground meat in S4 (S5).

[0066] Subsequently, based on the output value of the load cell, which is the weight sensor Z1 mentioned above, it is determined whether or not the input weight of the ground meat has reached the target weight (S6).

[0067] Then, if it is determined in S6 that the input weight has reached the target weight, the operation execution unit 44 stops the automatic input device 101 (S7).

[0068] This completes the process of adding the minced meat, and to indicate this, the notification unit 48 switches the illumination state of the start button B.

[0069] Next, the start button B is operated again (S8). At this time, the automatic operation signal is still stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45. Therefore, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier of

[0002] stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0070] Here, since the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit 41 does not include

[0003] , the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow corresponding to the next processing step

[0004] , namely the seasoning addition step.

[0071] At this time, the update unit 46 updates the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 from

[0002] to

[0004] and stores it.

[0072] In the process of adding seasonings, the seasonings are added manually (S9). However, the seasonings may also be added using an automatic dispenser 101, similar to the ground meat.

[0073] Subsequently, based on the output value of the load cell described above, it is determined whether or not the added weight of the seasoning has reached the target weight (S10).

[0074] Then, in S10, if it is determined that the input weight has reached the target weight, the processing step of adding seasonings is completed, and to indicate this, the notification unit 48 switches the illumination state of the start button B.

[0075] Next, the start button B is operated again (S11). At this time, the automatic operation signal is still stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45. Therefore, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier of

[0004] stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0076] Here, since the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit 41 does not include

[0005] , the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow corresponding to the next processing step

[0006] , namely the breadcrumb input step.

[0077] At this time, the update unit 46 updates the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 from

[0004] to

[0006] and stores it.

[0078] In the process of adding breadcrumbs, the breadcrumbs are added manually (S12). However, the breadcrumbs may also be added using the automatic dispenser 101, similar to the ground meat.

[0079] Subsequently, it is determined whether the amount of breadcrumbs added has reached the target weight based on the output value of the load cell described above (S13).

[0080] Then, in S13, if it is determined that the input weight has reached the target weight, the breadcrumb input process is completed, and the notification unit 48 switches the illumination state of the start button B to indicate this.

[0081] Next, the start button B is operated again (S14). At this time, the automatic operation signal is still stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45. Therefore, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier of

[0006] stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0082] In this embodiment, since the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit 41 does not include

[0007] , the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow corresponding to the next processing step

[0008] , that is, the processing step of stirring the input raw materials.

[0083] At this time, the update unit 46 updates the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 from

[0006] to

[0008] and stores it.

[0084] In the process of stirring the raw material, the operation execution unit 44 closes the safety cover 23 (S15) and operates the processing means 30, such as a screw, for stirring the raw material (S16).

[0085] Subsequently, it is determined whether the stirring time has reached a preset time based on the output value from the timer Z4 mentioned above (S17).

[0086] Then, in S17, if it is determined that the stirring time has reached the set time, the process of stirring the raw materials is completed, and the notification unit 48 switches the illumination state of the start button B to indicate this.

[0087] Next, the start button B is operated again (S18). At this time, the automatic operation signal is still stored in the automatic operation signal storage unit 45. Therefore, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier of

[0008] stored in the temporary register unit 43.

[0088] Here, since the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit 41 includes

[0009] , the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow corresponding to the processing step corresponding to

[0009] , that is, the processing step of discharging the stirred raw material.

[0089] At this time, the update unit 46 updates the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 from

[0008] to

[0009] and stores it.

[0090] In the process of discharging the raw material, the operation execution unit 44 opens the safety cover 23 (S19) and inverts the tank 20 from a steady position X to an overturned position Y (S20). As a result, the raw material inside the tank 20 is discharged to the outside.

[0091] These operations complete all of the processing steps performed by the raw material processing apparatus 100 in this embodiment, and the raw material processing apparatus 100 stops.

[0092] Incidentally, there are cases where, after pausing the above-mentioned processing steps, it is necessary to start from a desired processing step, or in other words, to start from the middle of the above-mentioned processing steps.

[0093] In this case, when the raw material processing apparatus 100 is temporarily stopped, if an identifier corresponding to the desired processing step is input via the input means IN, this identifier is stored in the temporary resist unit 43.

[0094] Then, when the start button B is operated, since the automatic operation signal storage unit 45 does not have an automatic operation signal stored at this time, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43, that is, the identifier input via the input means IN.

[0095] This configuration allows the process to start from a point in the middle of any of the multiple processing steps, that is, from a desired processing step.

[0096] (Effects and Effects of the Raw Material Processing Apparatus According to the Present Invention) With the raw material processing apparatus 100 configured in this way, for example, by using a signal indicating that the input raw material has reached a predetermined weight, or a signal indicating that the processing time has reached the set time of the timer Z4, the operation execution unit 44 can be made to execute the operation of the next processing step when it receives the start signal. This makes it possible to automatically transition from one process to the next.

[0097] Furthermore, if, for example, pressing the start button B outputs a start signal, the operation execution unit 44 can be instructed to execute the operation of the next processing step upon receiving that start signal. This allows the system to proceed to the next processing step each time a start button B is pressed, eliminating the need to provide separate start buttons B for each processing step.

[0098] Thus, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a smart and user-friendly raw material processing apparatus 100, both in terms of software and hardware, while using a PLC 40 that can keep manufacturing costs low.

[0099] Furthermore, if an automatic driving signal is stored in the automatic driving signal storage unit 45, when the start signal is received, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43, thereby ensuring that the system proceeds to the processing step immediately following a completed processing step.

[0100] Furthermore, if no automatic driving signal is stored in the automatic driving signal storage unit 45, when a start signal is received, the operation execution unit 44 executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the identifier input via the input means IN, so that operation can be started from any processing step in the series (i.e., from the middle of the series of processing steps).

[0101] Furthermore, since numerical values ​​are used as identifiers, and adjacent identifiers are separated by two or more units, it is possible to add other identifiers between adjacent identifiers. This allows for the addition of new processing steps by associating the operation flow of a new processing step with the newly added identifier and storing it in the operation flow storage unit 41.

[0102] Furthermore, since each operation step is executed sequentially, there is no risk of missing any operation steps, and maintenance in case of errors is also easier.

[0103] (Another embodiment of the raw material processing apparatus according to the present invention) However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0104] For example, although the processing steps in the above embodiment were all started by operating the start button B, the system may also be configured to automatically proceed to the next processing step without operating the start button B.

[0105] Specifically, as shown in Figure 6, by omitting step S14 in the above embodiment, in the process of adding breadcrumbs, when the weight of added breadcrumbs reaches the target weight, the process of stirring and mixing the next raw material is automatically started. In this case, if it is determined that the amount of breadcrumbs added has reached the target weight based on the output value from the load cell, that determination signal is received as a start signal by the start signal receiving unit 42. Furthermore, the steps that can be omitted are not limited to S14; S8, S11, and S18 can also be omitted in the same way.

[0106] The raw material processing apparatus 100 according to the present invention may be configured such that by operating the input means IN, an identifier stored in the temporary resist unit 43 is replaced with the next identifier.

[0107] More specifically, the input means IN here is displayed in a predetermined area of ​​the touch panel D, as shown in Figure 7, and in this case, it is the "Process Empty Feed" button IN. Needless to say, the name of the button IN is not limited to "Process Empty Feed" and may be changed as appropriate.

[0108] When the IN button, which is the input means for skipping a process, is pressed (for example, by holding it down), the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 is replaced with the identifier corresponding to the next processing step and stored without executing the processing step corresponding to that identifier.

[0109] In this embodiment, the PLC40 is configured such that the display control unit 47 displays the name of the processing step corresponding to the identifier after it has been replaced by the operation of the process empty feed button IN, which is an input means, as shown in Figure 8.

[0110] In other words, the display control unit 47 refers to an identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 and displays the name of the processing step corresponding to that identifier in the process name display field S of the touch panel D. As a result, if the identifier stored in the temporary register unit 43 is overwritten, the display control unit 47 switches the process name displayed in the process name display field S accordingly.

[0111] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the display control unit 47 displays the name of the next processing step after the processing step displayed in the process name display field S in a separate area on the touch panel D from the process name display field S.

[0112] Incidentally, the case in which several processing steps are to be skipped by operating the input means IN as described above is assumed to be a case where an abnormality occurs that necessitates stopping the continuous operation of a series of processes.

[0113] Therefore, the "Process Empty Feed Button IN" is displayed on display D in manual operation mode, where one of the multiple processing steps is executed manually, and is hidden in automatic operation mode, where multiple processing steps are executed automatically.

[0114] Here, the display control unit 47 described above determines whether it is in manual operation mode or automatic operation mode, and switches the display on or off of the process empty feed button.

[0115] With the configuration described above, an operator who wishes to start the operation from any processing step first switches the processing device 100 from automatic operation mode to manual operation mode. As a result, the previously hidden process feed button IN appears in a predetermined area of ​​the touch panel D, as shown in Figure 7.

[0116] Then, the operator presses the process empty feed button IN once or multiple times until the display in the process name display field S changes to the name of the desired processing process, switching from manual operation mode to automatic operation mode, and then presses the start button B to start the desired processing process.

[0117] With the processing apparatus 100 configured in this way, by replacing identifiers one by one, it is possible to execute the desired processing steps while feeding through processing steps that do not need to be performed.

[0118] Furthermore, by switching from continuous operation mode to manual operation mode, the "Process Empty Feed Button IN" input method is displayed. This ensures that the "Process Empty Feed Button IN" is displayed when operation is required and disappears when operation is not needed, thus preventing accidental operation while maintaining ease of use.

[0119] Furthermore, since the names of the processing steps are displayed, users can operate the process skip button IN while visually confirming which processing step is being executed, resulting in improved usability.

[0120] Furthermore, while a mixer was used as an example of a raw material processing apparatus 100 according to the present invention in the above embodiment, it may also be a chopper or grinder that finely grinds chunks of meat into mince (ground meat), a flaker that cuts frozen block meat into flakes, a slicer that cuts chunks of meat into slices, or a molding machine that shapes raw materials into a predetermined shape.

[0121] Furthermore, the raw material processing apparatus 100 is not limited to one that stirs and mixes the raw materials, but may also include processing means 30 that cut, heat, cool, pressurize, depressurize, or vibrate the raw materials, or it may be one that supplies seasoning liquid to the raw materials to allow the flavor to permeate them.

[0122] The raw materials are not limited to meat; they can also include various vegetables and fruits, tea leaves, food doughs with flexibility and viscosity, dairy products such as cheese, and are not limited to food ingredients; they can also include ingredients for beverages, cosmetics, and other products.

[0123] The sensors provided in the raw material processing apparatus 100 are not limited to those listed in the above embodiment, but may also be sensors that detect physical quantities such as temperature, pressure, and flow rate.

[0124] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible without departing from its spirit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0125] 100...Raw material processing equipment 10 ···bed 11...legs 12 ···Support stand 20...tank X ···Steady position Y ···Capsized position 21...Support shaft 22...Aperture 23 ···Safety cover 30...Processing means 31 ···Rotation axis 32...Agitation blade 40 ···PLC 41 ···Operation Flow Memory Unit 42 ···Start signal reception unit 43 ···Temporary Resistance Section 44 ···Execution Unit 45 ···Automatic driving signal storage unit 46...Update section 47 ···Display Control Unit 48 ··· News Department D ·· Display B ···Start button IN ···Input method Z1 ···Weight sensor Z2 ··Open / Close Sensor Z3 ·· Attitude Sensor Z4...timer 101...Automatic loading device

Claims

1. A raw material processing apparatus that processes raw materials through multiple processing steps, One or more sensors, The device includes a PLC that receives signals from the aforementioned sensor and controls the operation of one or more components that constitute the device, The aforementioned PLC An operation flow storage unit stores operation flow data that links identifiers assigned to each of the aforementioned multiple processing steps with the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to each identifier. A temporary register unit that receives the aforementioned identifier and temporarily stores the identifier, A raw material processing apparatus characterized by having an operation execution unit that, upon receiving a start signal for initiating the processing step, executes an operation flow of the processing step determined by a predetermined rule based on an identifier stored in the temporary resist unit and the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit.

2. The identifiers can be arranged in a predetermined order. The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when the start signal is received, the operation execution unit executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the next identifier of the identifier stored in the temporary resist unit.

3. The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising an update unit that, when the operation execution unit executes the operation flow of one processing step, overwrites and stores an identifier stored in the temporary resist unit with the identifier corresponding to the one processing step.

4. The system further includes an input means for inputting the identifier from an external source and storing it in the temporary register unit, The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when the start signal is received, the operation execution unit executes the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to the identifier input via the input means.

5. The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that by operating the input means, the identifier stored in the temporary resist unit is replaced with the next identifier.

6. The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the input means is displayed on the display in a manual operation mode in which any of the plurality of processing steps is performed manually, and is not displayed in an automatic operation mode in which the plurality of processing steps are performed automatically.

7. The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising a display control unit that displays the name of the processing step corresponding to the identifier after it has been replaced by the operation of the input means.

8. The identifiers can be arranged in a predetermined order. The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it is configured to allow the addition of other identifiers between adjacent identifiers in the operation flow data.

9. The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that each identifier corresponding to the plurality of processing steps is a numerical value and includes identifiers that are two or more adjacent to each other when arranged in ascending or descending order.

10. A tank into which the raw materials are introduced and in which a portion of the cooking process necessary to process those raw materials into food is carried out, The raw material processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising processing means for stirring, mixing, cutting, heating, cooling, pressurizing, depressurizing, or vibrating the raw material in the tank.

11. A program used in a raw material processing apparatus that processes raw materials through multiple processing steps, The raw material processing apparatus comprises one or more sensors and a PLC that receives signals from the sensors and controls the operation of one or more components constituting the apparatus. An operation flow storage unit stores operation flow data that links identifiers assigned to each of the aforementioned multiple processing steps with the operation flow of the processing step corresponding to each identifier. A temporary register unit that receives the aforementioned identifier and temporarily stores the identifier, A program for a raw material processing apparatus, characterized in that, upon receiving a start signal for initiating the aforementioned processing step, the PLC is made to function as an operation execution unit that executes an operation flow of a processing step determined by a predetermined rule, based on an identifier stored in the temporary resist unit and the operation flow data stored in the operation flow storage unit.

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