Kitchen machine system and method for automatically taring a kitchen machine system

Abstract

This invention relates to a kitchen machine system (2, 202) having a base device (4, 204) with a housing (14, 214) and at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) with identification features. A weighing module (16, 220) and a control device (18, 216) for detecting gross weight are provided on the base device (4, 204). Furthermore, a detection device (22, 218) for detecting the identification features of the at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) is provided on the base device (4, 204), and the control device (18, 216) is configured to identify positional changes of the at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) relative to the base device (4, 204), retrieve weight information corresponding to the identification features detected by the detection device (22, 218), and calculate the net weight based on the gross weight detected by the weighing module (16, 220) and taking into account the weight information. The invention also relates to a corresponding method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a kitchen machine system having a base device with a housing and at least one accessory with identification features, wherein a weighing module for detecting gross weight is provided on the base device, and a control device is provided on the base device. The invention also relates to a method for automatically tare weight for such a kitchen machine system. Background Technology

[0002] Kitchen machines of the type described at the beginning are well-known, especially for processing raw or semi-finished foods. These kitchen machines have a base unit with independent functional components that interact with it to process ingredients according to a target dish, beverage, or similar item. These functional components are typically sold as accessories by the kitchen machine supplier, for example, as cooking containers, stewing vessels, lids, cutting or stirring attachments. Generally, the accessories and the base unit have mutually compatible interfaces that allow the two components to interact. In particular, the movable elements of the accessories can be driven via an electric motor arranged in the base unit through these interacting interfaces.

[0003] A weighing module for detecting gross weight is provided on the base equipment. Here, the gross weight preferably corresponds to the total weight of all accessories used on the base equipment, whether filled or unfilled. More preferably, the gross weight also takes into account the value measured when the weighing module is empty, i.e., when the base equipment does not contain any accessories or other items. The detected gross weight may also include the respective self-weight of multiple accessories used simultaneously on the base equipment, regardless of whether they contain any contents.

[0004] Generally, like most sensors, weighing modules must be calibrated to obtain convincing measurement results. Calibration in weighing modules is performed through a process known as tare, which is typically guided or controlled manually by the user. Therefore, when the weighing module is in a particular state, the detected value, or the currently measured gross weight, is defined as "zero" and stored as the tare weight. In subsequent weight measurements, this tare weight is subtracted from the previously measured weight to calculate or display the net weight.

[0005] In other words, gross weight is the value detected by the weighing module, while net weight is the undetermined weight of the items that may be contained in the accessories.

[0006] For example, a kitchen machine with a weighing device is known from DE 10 2014 111 193 A1. To tare the weight, the detected gross weight can be manually set to zero on the kitchen machine via user input. Alternatively, the detected gross weight can be automatically defined as "zero" during the startup process of the known kitchen machine.

[0007] In order to minimize the cost to the user, document EP 3446081 A1 proposes another kitchen machine in which the accessories are identified and thus their own weight, which is assigned to the identification code and pre-stored, is automatically taken into account when calculating the net weight.

[0008] During the preparation process, it often happens that ingredients are placed into the same attachment sequentially, or an attachment is used or removed multiple times. However, a known drawback of kitchen machines is the need for multiple tare checks, especially when adding another ingredient. Furthermore, additional attachments can be used, which can make weight checks inaccurate. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In this context, the purpose of this invention is to improve known kitchen machine systems, and in particular to increase the success rate and user-friendliness of using kitchen machine systems.

[0010] This objective is achieved by a kitchen machine system of the type described at the beginning, wherein a detection device is installed on the base equipment to detect identification features of at least one accessory, and a control device is installed to identify positional changes of the at least one accessory relative to the base equipment, retrieve weight information corresponding to the identification features detected by the detection device, and calculate the net weight based on the gross weight detected by the weighing module and taking into account the weight information.

[0011] This kitchen machine system thus provides an automatic, intelligent tare function. This not only improves the success rate of production processes performed on the system but also enhances user-friendliness. In particular, it eliminates the need for dedicated, manual user input for tare while still accurately determining the net weight of a given ingredient.

[0012] By automatically recognizing and detecting the use or removal of attachments, the net weight of the contents that may be contained can be determined automatically with greater security and reduced user workload.

[0013] Furthermore, the kitchen machine system according to the invention can be used to accurately determine the net weight of raw materials whose quantity is altered in attachments not used with the base equipment, for example, by filling or emptying in locations not attached to the base equipment. The corresponding self-weight of other attachments used only during the manufacturing process can also be automatically taken into account when calculating the net weight.

[0014] The basic equipment in this invention is preferably configured as a basis for using the accessory by having an interface that interacts with at least one accessory. The basic equipment has a housing in which an electric motor for driving the accessory is arranged. The electric motor interacts with the accessory used on the basic equipment through the interface of the basic equipment.

[0015] An accessory is understood to be any component that forms part for use in conjunction with a base device. This accessory can be used directly or indirectly on the base device, wherein for direct use, the accessory has an interface compatible with the base device, and for indirect use, the accessory is attached to another accessory, which in turn is used directly on the base device. The term "use" includes, but is not limited to, actions such as connecting, joining, assembling, placing, attaching, applying, etc. Accessories particularly form parts for extending the functionality of the base device, for example, as a cutting, stirring, cooking, weighing, boiling, steaming, or covering unit. The function for which an accessory is set preferably specifies the accessory type.

[0016] The terminology identification feature includes any information about the type and / or attributes of the accessory. This identification feature is preferably sufficient to identify the accessory or allows for the allocation of multiple identification features in a database. In the context of this invention, the identification feature may be the accessory type, such as a cutting, stirring, cooking, weighing, boiling, steaming, or covering accessory, and / or a serial number.

[0017] The information features are preferably stored on a data carrier, which is integrated into or permanently attached to the base of the accessory. Multiple data carriers can be provided, each carrying an identification feature, and each positioned at a different location on the accessory. Therefore, based on the usage location or the orientation of the accessory on the base device, the identification feature corresponding to the usage location can be detected. Alternatively or additionally, a single data carrier can have multiple identification features, each detected based on the usage location of the accessory on the base. The data carrier can be switchable, for example, by means of a magnet, and provide corresponding identification features for detection based on the switched location or state. In this way, a matching quick-start mode can be automatically invoked for accessories that can have multiple usage locations on the base, based on their current usage location.

[0018] The detection device on the basic equipment is configured to detect the identification features of the accessory. For example, if the identification feature is stored in the form of a QR code, the detection device is preferably configured as an optical reader. The detection device can also be a reader for connecting to a data storage device on an RFID antenna, part of a Bluetooth system, or part of a bus system.

[0019] The basic equipment includes a weighing module designed for detecting gross weight, preferably with sufficient sensitivity to detect minute changes in weight. The weighing module is particularly well-designed to detect weight changes caused by the addition or removal of attachments not intended for containing raw materials. For example, the weighing module is sensitive enough to detect weight changes resulting from the use or removal of cutting or mixing accessories.

[0020] Furthermore, the control device is arranged within or on the housing of the basic equipment. This control device preferably has a processor with a storage medium. In particular, a computer program with instructions can be stored on the storage medium, and the processor executing these instructions will cause the kitchen machine to perform an operating method. The storage medium can store a database containing identification features, weight information, and / or cooking information.

[0021] The control device can be specifically configured to receive and process, in real time or simultaneously, the gross weight detected by the weighing module and the identification features detected by the detection device. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be configured to first determine the positional change of the accessory before commanding the detection device to perform the detection process to identify the accessory.

[0022] The control device is preferably configured to compare detected identification features with identification features from a database in order to identify accessories that have the detected identification features. In this case, it is advantageous to design the database to store identification features and assign weight information to the corresponding accessory based on those features.

[0023] In the context of this invention, the weight information is preferably the weight of the accessory itself. For example, if the accessory is formed as a container, the weight information assigned to the identification features of the accessory is the weight of an empty container.

[0024] The database may also store cooking information assigned to at least one identification feature, and this cooking information relates to performing preparation steps by means of an accessory carrying that identification feature. The term "cooking information" includes any type of preparation instructions, information about ingredients such as ingredient type, quantity, or weight, or information about accessories used in the preparation steps.

[0025] The control device is designed to identify positional changes of at least one accessory relative to the base equipment. In particular, the control device can identify the use or removal of one or more accessories on the base equipment. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be adapted to identify the use or removal of an accessory on another additional accessory already used on the base equipment. For example, the control device may be adapted to identify the use of a cutting or stirring attachment or a lid on a cooking container.

[0026] Furthermore, the control device is configured to retrieve weight information corresponding to the identification features detected by the detection device. Preferably, the control device can compare the detected identification features with identification features stored in a database and retrieve weight information that matches the identification features from the database.

[0027] The control device is also configured to calculate the net weight based on the gross weight detected by the weighing module and taking into account the weight information. After the weighing module detects the gross weight, identifies a change in the position of the accessory, and retrieves the weight information corresponding to the identified accessory, the net weight, i.e., the weight of the contents that may be contained in the accessory, can be calculated. Here, the weight of the contents can be zero, i.e., the accessory can be empty. Preferably, the weighing module measures a value even when it is empty, i.e., when no accessory or item is used on the base device. This value can then be taken into account when calculating the net weight.

[0028] For calculating net weight, if the use of accessories is detected, it is preferable to subtract the amount of weight information from the detected gross weight, or if the removal of accessories is detected, the amount of weight information is added to the detected gross weight.

[0029] According to a first embodiment of the kitchen machine system, the control device is configured to identify the use or removal of at least one accessory relative to the base equipment and / or relative to other accessories in such a way as follows:

[0030] -A difference exists between the first gross weight detected at the first time point and the second gross weight detected at a later second time point.

[0031] - Compare the resulting difference value with at least one reference value in the database.

[0032] - Classify the signs of the differences as "positive" or "negative".

[0033] In addition, the control device is configured to calculate the net weight by adding weight information to the second gross weight or subtracting weight information from the second gross weight based on the detected use or removal.

[0034] Kitchen machine systems designed in this way can identify the use or removal of attachments on the base equipment based on weight changes, eliminating the need for dedicated position detection devices. This allows for a more compact design of the base equipment.

[0035] Here, when calculating the net weight, it is preferable to also consider the value measured by the weighing module in an empty state, that is, when no accessories or items are used on the base equipment.

[0036] Preferably, the weighing module measures the gross weight at consecutive points in time. Alternatively, the gross weight can be measured continuously over time by the weighing module. The smaller the time interval between two measurements, the higher the probability of identifying and taking into account weight changes. Multiple, time-staggered measurements and storage of the gross weight not only allow for weight monitoring but also enable the retrieval of previously measured values. For example, a weight variable can be reset to a previously measured gross weight value.

[0037] The term "difference" is understood here as a vector, meaning it has an absolute quantity and a sign. The sign can be positive or negative.

[0038] Based on the difference in quantity and the comparison with the reference value, the control device determines whether the usage status of one or more accessories on the basic equipment has changed.

[0039] If the comparison results in the generated quantity matching the reference value in the database at least once, the control device recognizes that the usage status of the accessory corresponding to the reference value has changed. If, in a further step, the control device classifies the sign of the generated difference as positive, then the control device outputs a signal corresponding to the use of at least one accessory. If the sign is negative, the control device recognizes the removal of at least one accessory.

[0040] If the comparison results show that the amount of the difference is inconsistent with the reference value in the database, the control device will identify that no attachments were used or removed. If the value is still not zero, the control device will identify that the weight change is due to the addition or removal of contents contained in the attachments. By assigning a sign to the difference, the control device can identify whether an addition or removal occurred.

[0041] If the quantity is zero, the control device will recognize that, regardless of the symbol, no weight change has occurred, the accessory has neither been used nor removed, and no contents have been added or removed.

[0042] According to another embodiment of the kitchen machine system, a position detection device is installed on the base equipment, and is configured to detect the use or removal of at least one accessory relative to the base equipment and / or relative to another accessory, and forward this information to the control device. Furthermore, the control device is configured to calculate the net weight based on the detected use or removal by adding weight information to or subtracting weight information from the detected gross weight.

[0043] Therefore, the control device automatically identifies whether the accessory is in use and whether its position allows for normal interaction with the base equipment, thus providing improved user-friendliness. Furthermore, by incorporating a dedicated position detection device, the usage status of the accessory on the base equipment can be determined more accurately and reliably. Additionally, the programming workload of the control device can be reduced as a result.

[0044] The position detection device can be arranged in an accessory and / or within the housing of the base equipment. Preferably, the accessory has at least one element configured to influence the position detection device, which is configured to output a signal with position information based on the influence of the element.

[0045] The combined function of the accessory components and the position detection device can be designed in the following way:

[0046] - By changing the position of the accessory relative to the base equipment, the electrical contact between the components on the accessory and the position detection device is opened or closed;

[0047] - By changing the position of the accessory relative to the base equipment, the magnetic contact between the element formed as a magnet on the accessory and the position detection device, such as a reed contact, is opened or closed;

[0048] - Detect changes in inductance or capacitance caused by the combined action of the metal parts on the accessory and the active detection element of the position detection device;

[0049] - The magnetic field strength of the magnets arranged on the accessory is detected by the active detection element of the position detection device;

[0050] - Component detection and identification features formed from the attachments as data carriers; and / or

[0051] - Detect changes in rotational speed and temperature levels, such as those of cutting or mixing components.

[0052] The position of an accessory can be detected relative to the base equipment. If at least two accessories are provided, the position of a second accessory, such as a mixing attachment, can be detected relative to the position of a first accessory, such as a mixing bowl. In general, the position detection device can be used to detect the position of one or more accessories, and the control device can be configured to automatically identify the use or removal of one or more accessories together. For example, it can automatically identify whether a cooking basket is correctly used on a cooking container, and whether the cooking container is correctly used on the base equipment. This allows for the identification of positional changes in accessory combinations, which can be formed by attaching one accessory inside, on, below, or above another accessory.

[0053] According to another embodiment of the kitchen machine system, the control device is configured to retrieve the corresponding weight information when multiple identification features are detected, and to take these weight information together when calculating the net weight.

[0054] If multiple attachments are used simultaneously, the weight of each attachment can be used to calculate the net weight, thereby determining the weight of the items contained in one of the attachments. This allows, for example, accurate weighing of the food contained in the cooking container when using a cooking container and an additional stirring attachment together on a basic device.

[0055] Preferably, the detection device has a detection area and is configured to record machine-readable information corresponding to the identification feature format as identification features, and forward this information to the control device. Furthermore, the control device can compare the multiple detected identification features with identification features from a database, and determine from the comparison results which attachments are currently in use.

[0056] In one particular embodiment, the control device is adapted to retrieve cooking information from a database using identification features, which is applicable to all identified attachments. Cooking information relating to the execution of preparation steps using attachments with detected identification features is applicable. For example, a recipe for mashed potatoes is applicable to an attachment combination of a "cooking container" with a "stirring attachment."

[0057] According to another implementation of the kitchen machine system, the weight information corresponding to the detected identification feature is stored together with the identification feature on the accessory in the memory of the control device or in an external database accessible to the control device.

[0058] Weight information stored on the attachment, such as in a data carrier on the attachment or as a code, reduces the risk of confusion with other attachments that have different weights.

[0059] Storing the weight information in the control device simplifies access to the information and eliminates the need to detect the weight information along with the identification features. Therefore, the control device preferably has its own memory where the weight information is stored and assigned to at least one identification feature.

[0060] If the weight information is stored in an external database, it can be remotely managed, accessed, updated, or changed by the accessory manufacturer. This can be particularly advantageous, for example, if the weight of an accessory changes due to wear and tear, or if incorrect weight information is mistakenly stored. Preferably, the control device is designed to access the database via a communication interface.

[0061] A particular advantage is that weight information can be stored in a special format or as encrypted, machine-readable information. This avoids the need to use attachments from third-party vendors.

[0062] According to another implementation of the kitchen machine system, the amount of weight information corresponding to the detected identification features has been stored by the accessory manufacturer, or as part of the calibration process, by weighing the corresponding unfilled accessory using a weighing module.

[0063] The accessory manufacturer can store weight information on the accessory, in the control device, or in a separate database. This ensures that the stored weight information corresponds to the actual weight of the accessory and reduces errors such as those caused by the user.

[0064] Calibration, in turn, allows weight information to be matched to the actual, current weight of the accessory. For example, weight variations might be caused by wear. Contamination of the weighing module or accessories that could lead to inaccurate weighing can also be taken into account in this way.

[0065] In particular, during the production of accessories, weight information can be stored by calibrating the weighing module and control device with the user's assistance, for example, by activating the tare function on the communication interface and / or by automatic calibration via the control device. Manual or automatic calibration can be performed before the production process and / or while the production process is being carried out using the kitchen machine system.

[0066] Furthermore, weight information can be assigned to identification features by the kitchen machine manufacturer before the kitchen machine is sold, and / or subsequently assigned via software updates. Weight information can also be assigned in relation to the purchase of accessories, i.e., by making the weight information available in a database or accessible when a suitable accessory is purchased. Alternatively or additionally, weight information can be assigned to identification features or made available upon acceptance of service offers, such as additional services on a digital port connected to the database. Furthermore, assignment relationships can be stored in a database via user input.

[0067] Alternatively, the weight information of the attachments can be stored within the learning program by the control device. Therefore, when the attachment is first used with the base equipment, its weight can be automatically determined by forming the difference between the gross weight detected without the attachment and the gross weight detected with the attachment. The weight of the attachment determined in this way can be automatically stored as weight information and then linked to the attachment's identification features in the database.

[0068] According to another implementation of the kitchen machine system, the control device is configured to compare the net weight with weight data from the preparation instructions and output corresponding user prompts to add or reduce the amount of raw materials, wherein the weight data includes the rated weight of the raw materials.

[0069] In this way, the kitchen machine system allows users to easily follow the preparation instructions. This setup of the control device, combined with accessory recognition, can in particular output appropriate user instructions, even if the accessory is removed from the base equipment and reused during the preparation process.

[0070] In this case, the weight data is preferably the rated weight of a certain type of ingredient stored in the preparation instructions. For example, "100g of flour" could be the weight data in the preparation instructions designed for a cake cooking recipe.

[0071] Alternatively or additionally, the control device is configured to compare the detected gross weight with weight data from the manufacturing instructions and output corresponding user prompts to supplement or reduce the amount of raw materials, wherein the weight data includes at least one weight information for recommended accessories and a rated weight for the amount of raw materials.

[0072] In this way, the identified attachments and contents in the form of food or ingredients that may be contained within the attachments can be compared with the data in the production instructions during the execution of the production instructions, and corresponding user instructions can be output.

[0073] Here, the weight data includes both the weight information corresponding to the accessory's own weight and the rated weight of the raw material type. Such weight data can be created by the control device's functions. For example, if the control device has determined and identified the accessory's use, it generates the weight data by adding the identified accessory's weight information to the stored rated value of the raw material to be processed according to the manufacturing instructions.

[0074] According to another embodiment of the kitchen machine system, the control device is configured to output the net weight as machine-readable information or as user information via a communication interface.

[0075] This allows the net weight to be used in downstream production processes for the automatic control of kitchen machine systems, or as a reminder to the user.

[0076] The net weight, output as machine-readable information by the control device, can be used by the control device itself to create commands for the functional components of the kitchen machine system to execute downstream production steps. Alternatively or additionally, the net weight, as machine-readable information output, can be forwarded to another unit, such as to a server accessible via the Internet.

[0077] The control device is preferably connected to the communication interface via a bidirectional communication connection, allowing information to be exchanged between the control device and the communication interface. More preferably, the control device is designed for wireless access to external databases, such as via WLAN, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or similar methods. Alternatively or additionally, the control device may be configured to access the database via a USB port or electronic bus system.

[0078] For outputting user information, the communication interface is preferably formed as a user interface. In this invention, the communication interface can be a user interface in the form of an acoustic, tactile, or visual display, but it can also be an interface used to forward information to user terminal devices (such as smartphones or digital home management systems). Therefore, the communication interface directly provides information, for example, as a display itself, or indirectly provides information through an additional user interface.

[0079] In addition, the control device can first compare the net weight with the weight data corresponding to the rated weight from the manufacturing instructions, and then output the net weight together with the comparison result.

[0080] The above objective is further achieved by an automatic tare method for a kitchen machine system having a base unit and accessories, particularly for a kitchen machine system according to one of the above embodiments, wherein the positional change of the accessories relative to the base unit is identified, wherein the gross weight and identification features of the accessories are detected, wherein weight information corresponding to the detected identification features is retrieved, and wherein the net weight is calculated based on the gross weight and taking into account the weight information.

[0081] According to a first embodiment of the method, a change in location is identified by detecting a first gross weight at a first time point and a second gross weight at a subsequent second time point, comparing the difference between the first and second gross weights with at least one reference value from a database, and identifying if the difference exceeds or matches at least one reference value. Furthermore, the net weight is calculated based on the second gross weight and taking into account weight information.

[0082] Therefore, changes in the position of accessories on the base equipment can be generally identified. By further considering the sign of the difference between the detected first and second gross weights, the use or removal of accessories can be inferred.

[0083] According to another embodiment of the method, position changes are identified using a position detection device, particularly by changes in the state of electrical contacts, magnetic contacts, inductance, and capacitance; by detecting magnetic fields; by detecting identification features from components on the accessory that serve as data carriers; and / or by detecting changes in rotational speed and temperature levels. Furthermore, based on the identified use or removal, the net weight is calculated by adding weight information to the gross weight or subtracting weight information from the gross weight.

[0084] According to another embodiment of the method, the state of the detection device for detecting and identifying features is determined based on a comparison of the detected difference in gross weight or quantity with at least one reference value in a database.

[0085] Therefore, based on the detected gross weight, or possibly by means of the difference between the detected first gross weight and the detected second gross weight, it can be estimated whether one or more accessories are connected to the base equipment before the detection process is carried out by means of the detection device instructions.

[0086] According to another embodiment of the method, if the comparison shows that the detected difference in gross weight or quantity is consistent with the reference value in the database, or if the detected difference in gross weight or quantity exceeds the reference value in the database, the status of the detection device for detecting and identifying features is determined.

[0087] This can be used to evaluate the use or removal of one or more attachments before identifying features.

[0088] For example, if the comparison results show that the difference between the gross weight or the detected first gross weight and the detected second gross weight is consistent with the reference value in the database corresponding to the sum of the individual weights of multiple accessories, the detection device can be set to detect multiple identification features.

[0089] If the comparison result exceeds the reference value, then it can be assumed that at least one attachment is used with additional content or with a filled attachment.

[0090] In this implementation, absolute values ​​can be compared with each other, i.e., signs are not considered. Alternatively or additionally, the use or removal of attachments can also be identified by comparing signs.

[0091] According to another embodiment of the method, the detected identification feature is compared with at least one identification feature from the database, and the retrieved weight information is the weight information assigned to the identification feature in the database that matches the detected identification feature.

[0092] Alternatively, the status of the detection device used to detect and identify features can be continuously ascertained. This allows for the determination of whether and which accessories were used by comparing the detected gross weight or the difference between the first and second detected gross weights with reference values ​​in a database, and by identifying accessories.

[0093] In particular, if the reference values ​​are stored in the database within the content of the production guide, it can be determined whether the attachments applicable to the production guide to be executed were actually used.

[0094] According to another embodiment of the method, the net weight is output through a communication interface, wherein the net weight is output as machine-readable information for further use by the control device and / or as user information output.

[0095] The method and its embodiments according to the present invention have the same advantages as the kitchen machine according to the present invention and its embodiments.

[0096] The aforementioned objective is also achieved through a base device for a kitchen machine system, which has a housing, a weighing module for detecting gross weight, and a control device. The solution is to install a detection device on the base device for detecting identification features of at least one accessory, and the control device for identifying positional changes of at least one accessory relative to the base device, retrieving weight information corresponding to the identification features detected by the detection device, and calculating the net weight based on the gross weight detected by the weighing module and taking the weight information into account.

[0097] The above objectives can also be achieved using a control device for a kitchen machine system or for the basic equipment of a kitchen machine system, the control device being configured to perform the method according to one of the above embodiments.

[0098] Furthermore, the aforementioned objective is achieved by a computer program including instructions whose execution on at least one processor of the control device of the kitchen machine system according to one of the above embodiments causes the execution of the method according to one of the above embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0099] Further features and advantages of the present invention are set forth in the following description of embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0100] In the picture

[0101] Figure 1 A first implementation for a kitchen machine system is shown.

[0102] Figure 2 An embodiment of an automatic tare method for a kitchen machine system is shown, and

[0103] Figure 3 This illustrates another implementation of the kitchen machine system. Detailed Implementation

[0104] Figure 1 The kitchen machine system 2 shown has a basic device 4, a first attachment 6 formed as a cooking container, and a second attachment 8 formed as a cooking container. The first attachment 6 and the second attachment 8 each have data carriers 10 and 12, on which identification features as machine-readable information are stored.

[0105] The basic equipment 4 includes a housing 14, a weighing module 16, a control device 18, a communication interface 20, and a detection device 22. The weighing module 16 and the detection device 22 are respectively configured to detect gross weight and detect identification features. The weighing module 16, the detection device 22, and the communication interface 20 are connected to the control device 18 via bidirectional communication connections 24, 26, and 28, respectively.

[0106] The communication interface 20 is configured as a touch screen and is capable of displaying user prompts and detecting user input and forwarding it to the control device 18.

[0107] The control device 18 accesses an external database 30 containing identification features and weight information via a comprehensive communication network 32, in this case via the Internet and at least partially via WiFi.

[0108] The kitchen machine system 2 is shown in such a state that the second attachment 8 contains the contents 34, and the second attachment 8 is used indirectly on the base equipment 4 through the first attachment 6.

[0109] Kitchen machine system 2, especially control device 18, is constructed for performing Figure 2The method and steps.

[0110] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrates an example of an automatic tare method for kitchen machine system 2.

[0111] In step 100, the kitchen machine system 2 is started. In step 102, it is checked whether the "automatic tare" function is substantially deselected or enabled for execution. If the "automatic tare" function is enabled, then in step 200, the control device 18 sends a user inquiry via the communication interface 20 to whether the "automatic tare" function should be executed.

[0112] Subsequently, if user input corresponding to a negative response is detected through the communication interface 20 (step 300), then in step 302, the control device 18 prevents the execution of the method in which the net weight is automatically calculated based on the detected gross weight and identification features.

[0113] If a user input corresponding to a positive response is detected again (step 400), then the detection process using the weighing module 16 begins at step 500, and multiple gross weights are detected consecutively (steps 502 and 504).

[0114] At the start of the detection process or in step 600, additional user input is detected via communication interface 20, this time involving selecting production instructions to be executed from database 30.

[0115] This tracking of gross weight over time involves the control device 18 periodically generating a difference between the first gross weight B(t1) detected at a first time point t1 and the second gross weight B(t2) detected at a later second time point t2. The absolute value of this difference, |B(t2)-B(t1)|, is compared with a reference value stored in the database 30, and the sign of the difference B(t2)-B(t1) is classified as "positive" or "negative". Figure 2 In the diagram, the detection of time point t1 and the detection of time point t2 are schematically represented by steps 502 and 504, respectively. Step 700 shows the formation of the difference, step 702 shows the comparison of the absolute value |B(t2)-B(t1)| with the reference value, and step 704 shows the sign classification of the difference B(t2)-B(t1).

[0116] In this invention, at time point t1, neither the accessories nor the contents have been placed or contained on the base device 4. At time point t2, the kitchen machine system 2 is in... Figure 1 The state shown is such that the second accessory 8 contains the contents 34 and is assembled on the base device 4 together with the first accessory 6.

[0117] Therefore, at time point t1, the weighing module 16 detects the first gross weight B(t1) (step 502), corresponding to the empty state of the base device 4. The gross weight detected at time point t2 (step 504) corresponds to the value of the empty state of the base device 4, the weight of the first accessory 6, the weight of the second accessory 8, and the sum of the weight of the contents 34 contained in the second accessory 8.

[0118] The difference B(t2)-B(t1) (step 700) formed by the control device 18 has a positive sign and an absolute value |B(t2)-B(t1)|, which corresponds to the sum of the weight of the first accessory 6, the weight of the second accessory 8, and the weight of the contents 34 contained in the second accessory 8.

[0119] In step 702, the control device 18 compares the absolute amount |B(t2) - B(t1)| with a reference value stored in the database 30 in the context of the preparation guidelines (step 600) selected by the manufacturer at the beginning. The result of the comparison exceeds a reference value corresponding to the sum of the self-weights of a cooking vessel and a boiling vessel.

[0120] Furthermore, in step 704, the control device 18 classifies the sign of the formed difference B(t2)-B(t1) as "positive".

[0121] Based on the comparison results and symbol classification, control device 18 (step 800) identifies that the cooking container and the cooking vessel are likely to be used on base device 4 along with the contents they contain. However, exceeding the reference value may also mean that the filling amount of a single accessory has increased, or that another accessory not specified in the manufacturing guidelines has been used.

[0122] To confirm that the suspected attachments 6 and 8 have been used, in step 900, the control device 18 triggers a detection process via the detection device 22. This detects the corresponding identification features of the first attachment 6 and the second attachment 8 and forwards them to the control device 18 (step 902). Subsequently (step 1000), the control device 18 compares each of the corresponding detected identification features with the identification features from the database 30. Based on the consistency between the detected identification features and the identification features from the database 30, the control device 18 identifies in step 1002 that the cooking container and the cooking vessel have been used on the base device 4.

[0123] In addition, in step 1100, the control device 18 retrieves the weight information E(cooking container) and E(cooking vessel) of the identification features that are respectively consistent with the detected identification features in the first attachment 6 and the second attachment 8 assigned to the database 30.

[0124] In the subsequent step 1200, the control device 18 calculates the net weight by subtracting the retrieved weight information E(cooking container) and E(preparation container) from the formed difference B(t2)-B(t1). The calculated net weight corresponds to the weight of the contents contained in the second accessory 8.

[0125] In step 1300, the control device 18 outputs the calculated net weight as a user prompt via the communication interface 20, and in step 1400, the calculated net weight is stored together with the applicable raw material type for further processing in the next production step of the selected production guide.

[0126] Figure 3 Another embodiment of the kitchen machine system 202 is shown. Here, the kitchen machine system 202 has a base device 204, a first attachment 206 formed as a container, and a second attachment 208 formed as a stirring accessory. Each attachment 206, 208 is equipped with a data carrier 210, 212 storing machine-readable identification features.

[0127] The basic equipment 204 includes a housing 214, a control device 216, a detection device 218, a weighing module 220, a position detection device 222, a communication interface 224, and a memory 226 for a database. The weighing module 220, the detection device 218, the communication interface 224, and the memory 226 are connected to the control device 216 via bidirectional communication connections 228, 230, 232, and 234, respectively.

[0128] As in Figure 1 As in the implementation scheme, the weighing module 220 and the detection device 218 are respectively configured with identification features for detecting gross weight and detecting at least one accessory. The communication interface 224 is formed as a screen 236 and a tactile element 238, and can be connected to a mobile user interface 242, such as a smartphone, via a wireless communication connection 240.

[0129] The kitchen machine system 202, in particular the control device 216, is constructed to perform the following methods.

[0130] After the kitchen machine system 202 is started, the weighing module 220 detects the gross weight in an empty state without any accessories used on the base equipment 204, and the control device 216 stores the gross weight as "zero". Subsequently, the gross weight detected in the empty state is equal to zero for the control device 216.

[0131] The following describes a situation in which the first accessory 206, which is filled with potato 246 and assembled with the second accessory 208, is used on the base device 204 only after filling and assembly.

[0132] During the continuous detection process operated by the position detection device 222, at least one accessory is identified as being used on the base device 204. In response, the control device 216 initiates a detection process via the detection device 218, which reads the respective data carriers 210 and 212 arranged on the first accessory 206 and the second accessory 208. Here, the detection device 218 detects identification features and weight information, respectively. Based on the detected information, the control device 216 identifies that the first accessory 206 and the second accessory 208 are used on the base device 204 and their respective accessory types.

[0133] Then, the control device 216 compares the sum of the detected weight information with the gross weight currently detected by the weighing module 220. If the comparison result indicates that the gross weight exceeds the sum of the detected weight information, the control device 216 calculates the net weight by subtracting the sum of the detected weight information from the detected gross weight.

[0134] If necessary, the control device 216 compares the calculated net weight with the rated weight of the raw material from the preparation instructions in the database. In this example, the preparation instructions are a recipe for mashed potatoes, and the rated value for the raw material type "potato" is "1 kg". If the comparison shows that the calculated net weight is less than the rated weight, the control device 216 outputs a user prompt via the communication interface 224 to replenish the potatoes by the amount corresponding to the difference between the calculated net weight and the rated value, for example, "Please replenish 100g of potatoes".

[0135] If the kitchen machine system 202 performs the same procedure even when no potatoes are loaded, the communication interface 224 may detect user input corresponding to a confirmation of the empty status of attachments 206 and 208, indicating that attachments 206 and 208 used on the base device 204 do not contain any items or potatoes. Therefore, the control device 216 stores the currently detected gross weight as the tare weight for any potential downstream processing.

Claims

1. Kitchen machine system (2, 202), which has - Basic equipment (4, 204) with a shell (14, 214) and - At least one attachment with identifying features (6, 8, 206, 208). - A weighing module (16, 220) for detecting gross weight is installed on the basic equipment (4, 204), and - A control device (18, 216) is installed on the basic equipment (4, 204). Its features are, - A detection device (22, 218) is provided on the basic equipment (4, 204) to construct identification features for detecting at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208), and - Control unit (18, 216) is constructed for - Identify the positional changes of at least one of the accessories (6, 8, 206, 208) relative to the base device (4, 204). - Retrieve weight information corresponding to the identification features detected by the detection devices (22, 218), and - The net weight is calculated based on the gross weight detected by the weighing module (16, 220) and taking into account the weight information. - The control device (18, 216) is configured to identify the use or removal of at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) relative to the base device (4, 204) and / or relative to another accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) in such a way as follows: - A difference exists between the first gross weight detected at the first time point and the second gross weight detected at a later second time point. - Compare the resulting difference value with at least one reference value in the database (30, 226), and - Classify the signs of the resulting differences as "positive" or "negative", and The control device (18, 216) is configured to calculate the net weight by adding weight information to or subtracting weight information from the second gross weight based on the detected use or removal.

2. The kitchen machine system (2, 202) according to claim 1. Its features are, - A position detection device is provided on the base equipment (4, 204), and the position detection device is configured to detect the use or removal of at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) relative to the base equipment (4, 204) and / or relative to another accessory (6, 8, 206, 208), and forward it to the control device (18, 216). - The control unit (18, 216) is configured to calculate the net weight by adding or subtracting weight information from the detected gross weight based on the detected use or removal.

3. The kitchen machine system (2, 202) according to claim 1. Its features are, The control device (18, 216) is configured to retrieve the corresponding weight information when multiple identification features are detected, and to take these weight information together when calculating the net weight.

4. The kitchen machine system (2, 202) according to claim 1. Its features are, Weight information corresponding to the detected identification features - Together with the identification features in Annexes (6, 8, 206, 208) - Memory (226) stored in the control device (18, 216) or - Stored in an external database (30) accessible to the control device (18, 216).

5. The kitchen machine system (2, 202) according to claim 1. Its features are, The amount of weight information corresponding to the detected identification features has already - Stored by the accessory manufacturer, or - As part of the calibration process, the corresponding unfilled attachments (6, 8, 206, 208) are stored by weighing using the weighing modules (16, 220).

6. The kitchen machine system (2, 202) according to claim 1. Its features are, - The control unit (18, 216) is configured to compare the net weight with the weight data from the production instructions and output corresponding user prompts to replenish or reduce the amount of raw materials, wherein the weight data includes the rated weight of the raw materials. and / or - The control device (18, 216) is configured to compare the detected gross weight with the weight data from the manufacturing instructions and output corresponding user prompts to supplement or reduce the amount of raw materials, wherein the weight data includes at least one weight information for the recommended accessories (6, 8, 206, 208) and the rated weight for the amount of raw materials.

7. The kitchen machine system (2, 202) according to claim 1. Its features are, The control unit (18, 216) is configured to output the net weight as machine-readable information or as user information via the communication interface (20, 224).

8. A method for automatically tareing a kitchen machine system (2, 202) having basic equipment (4, 204) and accessories (6, 8, 206, 208) according to any one of claims 1 to 7. - This involves identifying the positional changes of attachments (6, 8, 206, 208) relative to the base equipment (4, 204). - This includes detecting the gross weight and identification features of attachments (6, 8, 206, 208). - This includes retrieving the weight information corresponding to the detected recognition features, and - The net weight is calculated based on the gross weight and taking into account weight information. The location change is identified in the following ways. - Detect the first gross weight at the first time point and the second gross weight at the subsequent second time point. - Compare the difference between the first and second gross weights with at least one reference value from the database (30,226), and - The result of the comparison is that the difference in quantity exceeds at least one reference value or is consistent, and The net weight is calculated based on the second gross weight and taking into account the weight information.

9. The method according to claim 8, - This involves using a position detection device to identify position changes, and - The net weight is calculated by adding or subtracting the weight information from the gross weight based on the identified use or removal.

10. The method according to claim 9, The position detection device identifies position changes by detecting changes in the state of electrical contact, magnetic contact, inductance, and capacitance; by detecting magnetic fields; by detecting identification features from components on the accessory that serve as data carriers; and / or by detecting changes in rotational speed and temperature levels.

11. The method according to claim 8, in, The status of the detection device (22, 218) for detecting and identifying features is determined by comparing the detected difference in gross weight or quantity with at least one reference value in the database (30, 226).

12. The method according to claim 11, in, If the comparison shows, - The detected difference in gross weight or quantity is consistent with the reference value in the database (30,226), or - The detected difference in gross weight or quantity exceeds the reference value in the database (30,226). Then determine the status of the detection device (22, 218) used to detect and identify features.

13. The method according to claim 8, - Wherein, the detected identification features are compared with at least one identification feature from the database (30,226), and - in, The retrieved weight information is the weight information of the identification feature that matches the detected identification feature in the database (30, 226).

14. A computer program comprising instructions, the execution of which on at least one processor of a control device for a kitchen machine system according to any one of claims 1 to 7 causes execution of the method according to any one of claims 8 to 13.

Images