System and method for dispensing food products

Abstract

A food management system includes a cabinet having a chamber, a hoist, and a catapult. The chamber is partially defined by a front wall that includes a chute that defines a first end along a dispensing region of the cabinet. At least one elevator is disposed within the chamber and is configured to receive a plurality of containers therein. The elevator is operable to sequentially present at least one of the containers to a dispensing area of the cabinet. A catapult includes a bumper disposed within the distribution region. A bumper is operable to translate through the dispensing region from a retracted position on an opposite side of the at least one elevator from the chute to an extended position between the retracted position and the chute to bias at least one of the containers from the at least one elevator through the chute.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application entitled “System and Method for Distributing Food Products”, with an international application date of December 5, 2019, an international application number of PCT / US2019 / 064584, and a national application number of 201980080379.2.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 766,002, filed on December 6, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for managing the dispensing of food products, and more particularly to systems and methods for managing the dispensing of food products. Background Art

[0005] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure and is not necessarily prior art. Food delivery services are typically provided by food service providers, restaurants, and third-party delivery service organizations to deliver various food products to customers in remote areas. Typically, food delivery is a manual process that requires a delivery person to load each food order into a vehicle, drive the vehicle to a desired destination, and distribute or deliver the food from the delivery vehicle to the customer's location. However, as vehicles become increasingly autonomous and eliminate the need for dedicated delivery drivers, there has been a need for automatically distributing food products from delivery vehicles. Summary of the invention

[0006] This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a food management system, comprising a cabinet having a chamber defined by a plurality of walls, the plurality of walls comprising a bottom, a top wall disposed on a side of the cabinet opposite to the bottom, a front wall extending from the bottom to the top wall, a rear wall disposed on a side of the cabinet opposite to the front wall, a left wall extending from the bottom to the top wall and from the front wall to the rear wall, and a right wall formed on a side of the cabinet opposite to the left wall. The front wall of the cabinet comprises a chute defining a first end of a dispensing area along the cabinet. The food management system further comprises at least one lift disposed within the chamber. The lift is configured to receive a plurality of containers therein and is operable to sequentially present at least one of the containers to the dispensing area of ​​the cabinet. The ejector of the food management system comprises a buffer disposed within the dispensing area. The bumper is operable to translate from a retracted position on a side of the at least one lift opposite the chute through the dispensing area to an extended position between the retracted position and the chute to bias at least one of the containers from the at least one lift through the chute.

[0008] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In certain embodiments, the at least one elevator includes a first elevator disposed adjacent to the front wall and a second elevator disposed on a side of the first elevator opposite to the front wall. Here, the food management system may include a door disposed between the first elevator and the second elevator. Optionally, the first elevator may include a first elevator having a plurality of first slots and a second elevator opposite to the first elevator and including a plurality of second slots, wherein each of the plurality of first slots cooperates with one of the plurality of second slots to receive one of the containers. In certain embodiments, each of the first elevator and the second elevator is a conveyor belt including a plurality of scrapers, the scrapers defining a support surface for one of the slots.

[0009] In some examples, the ejector includes a band extending from a first end adjacent to the rear wall to a second end adjacent to the front wall, the bumper being attached to the band.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the chute is disposed at a first end of the front wall adjacent to the top wall and defines a passage through the front wall, the passage being configured to receive one of the containers therethrough.

[0011] In some examples, the food management system includes a warmer disposed in the chamber. Here, the warmer includes a first heating unit disposed on the left wall and a second heating unit disposed on the right wall. Each of the first heating unit and the second heating unit includes an outlet adjacent to the bottom of the cabinet and an inlet adjacent to the top wall of the cabinet, wherein the inlet and the outlet of the first heating unit are opposite to the inlet and the outlet of the second heating unit.

[0012] In certain embodiments, the front wall comprises a removable access panel.

[0013] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a food management system, the food management system having a cabinet having a chamber defined by a plurality of walls, the plurality of walls comprising a bottom, a top wall disposed on a side of the cabinet opposite to the bottom, a front wall extending from the bottom to the top wall, a rear wall disposed on a side of the cabinet opposite to the front wall, a left wall extending from the bottom to the top wall and from the front wall to the rear wall, and a right wall formed on a side of the cabinet opposite to the left wall, the front wall of the cabinet comprising a chute, the chute defining a first end of a dispensing area along the cabinet. The food management system comprises at least one elevator disposed within the chamber. The elevator comprises a plurality of slots, each of the plurality of slots being configured to receive a container therein, the slot being operable to vertically translate the container into the dispensing area, wherein one of the slots defines a support surface of the dispensing area. The food management system further comprises an ejector having a buffer, the buffer being operable to translate a container through the dispensing area to bias the at least one elevator toward the chute. This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features.

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one elevator includes a first elevator disposed adjacent to the front wall and a second elevator disposed on a side of the first elevator opposite to the front wall. Here, the food management system may further include a door disposed between the first elevator and the second elevator.

[0015] In some examples, the first elevator comprises a first elevator having a plurality of first slots and a second elevator opposite to the first elevator and comprising a plurality of second slots, wherein each of the plurality of first slots cooperates with one of the plurality of second slots to receive the container. Optionally, each of the first elevator and the second elevator is a conveyor belt comprising a plurality of scrapers, the scrapers defining a support surface of one of the slots.

[0016] In some embodiments, the ejector includes a band extending from a first end adjacent to the rear wall to a second end adjacent to the front wall, the bumper being attached to the band. In some examples, the chute is disposed at a first end of the front wall adjacent to the top wall and defines a passage through the front wall, the passage being configured to receive the container therethrough.

[0017] In some embodiments, the food management system includes a warmer disposed in the chamber. Here, the warmer includes a first heating unit disposed on the left wall and a second heating unit disposed on the right wall, each of the first heating unit and the second heating unit includes an outlet adjacent to the bottom of the cabinet and an inlet adjacent to the top wall of the cabinet, wherein the inlet and the outlet of the first heating unit are opposite to the inlet and the outlet of the second heating unit.

[0018] In some examples, the front wall includes a removable access panel.

[0019] In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of dispensing containers includes providing a food management system, the food management system comprising: a cabinet having a first end and a chute formed in a side wall at the first end; at least one elevator disposed within the cabinet and having a plurality of first slots configured to receive containers and operable to translate along a first direction toward the first end; and an ejector disposed at the first end of the cabinet and having a buffer operable to translate along a second direction transverse to the first direction and toward the chute. The method further includes receiving one or more containers in the slots of the at least one elevator, translating the at least one elevator along the first direction to present a first one of the containers to the ejector, and translating the buffer along the second direction to bias the first one of the containers through the chute of the cabinet.

[0020] In some examples, after the first of the containers is biased through the chute, the at least one lift is translated in the first direction to present the second of the containers to the ejector. Here, the buffer is translated in the second direction to bias the second of the containers through the chute of the cabinet.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the at least one elevator comprises a first elevator having a plurality of first slots and a second elevator having a plurality of second slots, the method comprising receiving a plurality of first containers having a first ingredient in the slots of the first elevator and receiving a plurality of second containers having a second ingredient on the second elevator.

[0022] The details of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the specification and drawings and from the claims. The description and specific examples in the summary of the invention are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a food dispensing environment according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A perspective view of a food management system for a food distribution environment.

[0026] Figure 3 for Figure 2 A perspective view of a food management system in which an access panel has been removed from a front wall to reveal a compartment of the food management system.

[0027] Figure 4 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a food management system, the cross-sectional view being along Figure 2 Section line 4 - 4 in FIG. 4 is taken and illustrates an arrangement of a dispensing system according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 5 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a food management system, the cross-sectional view being along Figure 2 Section line 5 - 5 in FIG. 5 is taken and illustrates an arrangement of a dispensing system according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 6 for Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a food management system, the cross-sectional view being along Figure 2 Section line 6 - 6 in FIG. 6 is taken and illustrates an arrangement of a dispensing system according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 7 for Figure 2 2 is a lower right front perspective view of a food management system of FIG. 1 , wherein the bottom, right wall and front wall of the cabinet of the food management system have been hidden for clarity.

[0031] Figure 8 for Figure 2 2 is an upper left rear perspective view of a food management system of FIG. 1 , wherein the top wall, the left wall and the rear wall of the cabinet of the food management system have been hidden for clarity.

[0032] Fig. 9 is a partial perspective view of a dispensing system showing a pair of elevators and a heating unit according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.10 is a perspective view of an ejector of a dispensing system according to the present disclosure.

[0034] Like reference numbers in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] Exemplary configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Exemplary configurations are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that exemplary configurations may be implemented in many different forms, and that these specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

[0036] refer to Figure 1 , the food distribution environment 1000 includes a food management system 10, which can be disposed in a delivery vehicle 12. In other examples, the food management system 10 can be incorporated into a fixed structure, such as a store or kiosk. Generally, the food management system 10 is configured to receive, maintain, and distribute containers C for food products. The food distribution environment 1000 further includes a plurality of users 14 communicating with the food management system 10 via user devices 16.

[0037] refer to Figure 2 The food management system 10 according to the present disclosure includes a cabinet 100 defining a chamber 102. The food management system 10 further includes a dispensing system 200, a warmer 300 disposed in the chamber, and a control system 400 configured to manage the operation of each of the dispensing system 200 and the warmer 300.

[0038] In the illustrated example, the cabinet 100 is box-shaped and includes a plurality of walls 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114 defining the chamber 102. As shown, the cabinet 100 includes a bottom 104 and a top wall 106 disposed on a side of the cabinet 100 opposite to the bottom 104. A front wall 108 extends from the bottom 104 to the top wall 106. A rear wall 110 is disposed on a side of the cabinet 100 opposite to the front wall 108 and extends from the bottom 104 to the top wall 106. A left wall 112 extends from the bottom 104 to the top wall 106 and from the front wall 108 to the rear wall 110. Similarly, a right wall 114 is disposed on a side of the cabinet 100 opposite to the left wall 112 and extends from the bottom 104 to the top wall 106 and from the front wall 108 to the rear wall 110.

[0039] refer to Figure 2 , the front wall 108 of the cabinet 100 includes a removable access panel 116 and a slide 118. As shown, the access panel 116 defines a lower portion or first end of the front wall 108 and extends from a bottom end 120 near the bottom 104 to a top end 122 intermediate the bottom 104 and the top wall 106. Therefore, the top end 122 of the access panel 116 is spaced apart from the top wall 106.

[0040] When used herein, the term "removable" means that the entry panel 116 can be removed and reattached to the cabinet 100 without the use of tools. For example, the entry panel 116 can be removably attached to the cabinet 100 using fasteners such as clips, magnets, or snaps. Therefore, the entry panel 116 can include a handle 124 that is configured to grip the entry panel 116 when the entry panel 116 is installed on the cabinet 100, thereby facilitating the removal and replacement of the entry panel 116 without the use of tools. In other examples, the entry panel 116 may not be completely removable, but may be hingedly or pivotally attached to the cabinet 100, wherein the entry panel 116 can be rotated or swung to an open position to allow access to the interior of the chamber 102.

[0041] Still reference Figure 2 , the chute 118 is disposed between the top wall 106 and the top end 122 of the entry panel 116. As shown, the chute 118 includes a bottom wall 130 disposed adjacent to the top end 122 of the entry panel 116 and a top wall 132, the top wall being spaced apart from the bottom wall 130 and adjacent to the top wall 106 of the cabinet 100. A pair of side walls 134 connect opposite ends of the bottom wall 130 and the top wall 132 to define a passage 136 extending from the chamber 102 through the chute 118 to the exterior of the cabinet 100. In the example shown, the passage 136 is generally rectangular and is configured to receive a container C therethrough with minimal clearance so as to minimize heat energy escaping from within the chamber 102.

[0042] As in Figure 4 As best shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 , the bottom wall 130 of the chute 118 includes a substantially planar inner surface 138 configured to provide a sliding surface for the container C when the container C is ejected from the chamber 102, as described below. Thus, the inner surface 138 of the bottom wall 130 may be formed of or coated with a low friction material, such as Teflon. ® etc.

[0043] As shown, the channel 136 of the chute 118 corresponds to the dispensing area R of the chamber 102. D In the example shown, where the chute 118 is formed adjacent to the top wall 106 of the chamber 102, the dispensing area R D Also extends along the top wall 106 from the front wall 108 to the rear wall 110. Generally, the distribution area R D Serves as a storage area for containers C, wherein the dispensing system 200 interacts with the containers C to dispense the containers C through the chute 118.

[0044] Still reference Figure 4 , the chute 118 may include a lip 140 disposed in the chamber 102 adjacent to the bottom wall 132. The lip 140 includes an upper surface 142, which is substantially continuously formed with the inner surface 138 of the bottom wall 132 and is formed at an inclined angle relative to the inner surface of the bottom wall. In particular, the upper surface 142 extends from the inner surface 138 of the chute 118 into the chamber 102 in a descending manner. Therefore, the upper surface 142 is configured to provide a ramp surface at the interface between the chamber 102 and the channel 136 for guiding the front edge of the container C into the channel 136 when the container C is ejected. Therefore, the lip 140 prevents the container C from being stuck at the interface between the chamber 102 and the channel 136.

[0045] The chute 118 includes a door 144 disposed within the passage 136. The door 144 is operable to selectively open and close the passage when the container C is ejected. Figure 4 , a top end 146 of the door 144 is pivotally attached to the top wall 130 of the chute 118, wherein the door rotates about the top end 146 between an open position and a closed position as shown in phantom. A bottom end 148 of the door 144 may include an elongated seal 150 configured to engage the inner surface 138 of the bottom wall 132 when the door 144 is in the closed position to minimize thermal energy escaping from the chamber 102.

[0046] Reference again Figure 2 and Figure 3, the cabinet 100 may include a receptacle 152 configured to receive the access panel 116 when the access panel 116 is removed from the front wall 108 of the cabinet 100. As shown, the receptacle 152 defines a generally rectangular cavity for receiving the access panel 116. The cabinet 100 may further include one or more anchors for securing the cabinet within a delivery vehicle.

[0047] Now turn to Figures 3 to 5 , chamber 102 is configured to receive a plurality of articles of manufacture of containers C. Typically, chamber 102 is configured to receive and store one or more stacks S of containers C for dispensing via dispensing system 200, as discussed below. Accordingly, cabinet 100 includes various features and elements configured to maintain the integrity of the stacks and ensure proper translation of containers C within chamber 102.

[0048] As in Figure 8 100, the cabinet 100 includes a door 154 disposed between the front wall 108 and the rear wall 110. As shown, the door 154 generally extends from a bottom end 156 adjacent to the bottom 104 of the cabinet 100 to a top end 158 adjacent to the top wall 106 of the cabinet 100. The bottom end 156 of the door is rotatably attached to the cabinet 100 adjacent to the bottom 104, wherein the door 154 can rotate around the bottom end 156 between an upright position parallel to the front wall 108 and the rear wall 110 and a lowered position parallel to the bottom 104. The door 154 includes at least one post 160 extending from the bottom end 156 to the top end 158, the at least one post being configured to be disposed between adjacent stacks of containers C to maintain the separation and integrity of the stacks when the door 154 is in the upright position. Conversely, the door 154 can be moved to a lowered position adjacent to the bottom 104 to allow unobstructed access to the rear portion of the chamber 102.

[0049] Still reference Figure 8 The cabinet 100 further includes a guide rail 162 extending between the left wall 112 and the right wall 114. The guide rail 162 includes a top surface 164 that is inclined in a direction from the rear wall 110 to the front wall 108. In the example shown, the top surface 164 includes one or more sliding members 166, which are formed of a low friction material or coated with a low friction material, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW), Teflon, etc. ® Etc. Thus, the top surface 164 of the guide rail 162 forms a slope in the middle portion of the chamber 102. In use, the top surface 164 is configured to guide the leading edge of a container C as it is transferred from the rear stack to the front stack.

[0050] like Figure 7As shown in , the top end 158 of the door 154 can engage with the guide rail 162 to releasably secure the door 154 in an upright position. For example, the door 154 can include a first portion of a latch 168 that is configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the latch (168) on the bottom side of the guide rail 162.

[0051] Reference now Figures 4 to 8 , the dispensing system 200 is disposed in the chamber 102 of the cabinet 100 and is configured to dispense containers C from the chamber. In the example shown, the dispensing system 200 includes one or more elevators 202a, 202b configured to translate the container C in a vertical direction, and an ejector 204 configured to manipulate the container C toward the channel 136 of the chute 118. Generally, the elevators 202a, 202b are each operable to sequentially present the container C to the dispensing area R of the chamber 102. D , whereby the container C is aligned with the channel 136 of the chute 118. The container C is deposited in the distribution area R by the elevators 202a and 202b. D In the event of a load being removed from the lift 202a, 202b, the ejector 204 is operable to bias a container of at least one of the lifts 202a, 202b toward the front wall 108 and through the passage 136.

[0052] In the example shown, the dispensing system 200 includes a front elevator 202a disposed between the front wall 108 and the door 154, and a rear elevator 202b disposed between the door 154 and the rear wall 110. Thus, as described above, when the door 154 is in an upright position, the door 154 separates the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b. Each of the elevators 202a, 202b includes an opposing pair of elevators 206 that are configured to operate in unison to translate the container C in a vertical direction. For example, each elevator 202a, 202b includes a left elevator 206a extending along the left wall 112 in a direction from the bottom 104 to the top wall 106, and a substantially similar right elevator 206b extending along the right wall 114 in a direction from the bottom 104 to the top wall 106. Figure 5 As shown in the cross-sectional view of , the left elevator 206a and the right elevator 206b of each of the respective elevators 202a, 202b are aligned with each other across the chamber 102. Therefore, the left elevator 206a and the right elevator 206b of each elevator 202a, 202b cooperate to provide a stack of containers C, wherein the left elevator 206a supports the corresponding left sides of the plurality of containers C and the right elevator 206b supports the corresponding right sides of the plurality of containers C, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 as shown in .

[0053] Now turn to Fig. 9, showing the corresponding left side elevator 206a of the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b. As described above, all elevators 206a, 206b are substantially similar, with the right side elevator 206b being a mirror image of the left side elevator 206a. Therefore, only the left side elevator 206a is described here. Each of the elevators 206a, 206b extends from a first end 208 adjacent to the bottom 104 to a second end 210 adjacent to the top wall 106, and is configured as a paddlebelt conveyor. Therefore, each elevator 206a, 206b includes a lower pulley 212a at the first end 208, an upper pulley 212b at the second end 210, and a continuous conveyor belt 214 extending around the pulleys 212a, 212b, as shown in Figure 5 Belt 214 includes a plurality of scrapers 216 extending outwardly therefrom. As shown, scrapers 216 are evenly spaced from one another along the length of belt 214 to define a plurality of slots 218 for receiving containers C therebetween. Each scraper 216 includes a support surface 220 configured to receive a container thereon. Figure 5 As shown in the figure, the support surface 220 of the scraper 216 on the left elevator 206a is vertically aligned with the corresponding scraper 216 on the right elevator 206b, wherein the narrow groove 218 defined by the scraper 216 of the left elevator 206a cooperates with the narrow groove 218 defined by the scraper 216 of the right elevator 206b to receive a single container C.

[0054] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the scrapers 216 of the elevators 202a, 202b can be translated vertically through the chamber 102 to present the containers C to the dispensing area R D For example, in the example shown, when the belt 214 is along Figure 5 When rotating in a first direction as indicated by the directional arrow in FIG. 1 , the inwardly facing scraper 216 of each lifter 206a, 206b travels in a direction from the bottom 104 toward the top wall 106. The support surface 220 of the scraper 216 closest to the top wall 106 cooperates to define a distribution area R D The support surface 220 along which the container C can slide when the container C is biased toward the channel 136 by the ejector 204.

[0055] refer to Figure 6, a cross-sectional view is provided through the upper pulley 212b of the elevators 202a, 202b. As shown, the upper pulley 212b of the left elevator 206a is part of the first drive train 222a and is connected to each other by a first coupling 224a, wherein the pulleys 212b are rotatably fixed relative to each other. Similarly, the upper pulley 212b of the right elevator 206b is part of the second drive train 222b and is connected to each other by a second coupling 224b, wherein the pulleys 212b are rotatably fixed relative to each other. The first drive train 222a and the second drive train 222b are both connected to a single motor 226 by respective couplings 224c, 224d. Therefore, since the upper pulley 212b of each of the elevators 206a, 206b is mechanically coupled to the common motor 226, all elevators 206a, 206b operate synchronously, whereby the left elevator 206a and the right elevator 206b move at the same speed, and the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b move at the same speed. In other examples, each of the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b can be independently powered, whereby the front elevator 202a can advance and reverse independently of the rear elevator 202b, and vice versa. In addition, each of the elevators 206a, 206b can be independently powered and controlled.

[0056] like Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , the dispensing system 200 further includes an ejector 204 disposed along the top wall 106 and extending from a first end 228 at the rear wall 110 to a second end 230 adjacent to the front wall 112. Typically, the ejector 204 is configured to be disposed at the dispensing area R D The dispensing area R is provided with a biasing force toward the chute 118 during the dispensing process. D The product within the container C is as described in more detail below.

[0057] The ejector 204 of the illustrated example includes a bumper 232 that is suspended from the top wall 106 to the dispensing area R DThe ejector 204 is configured to move between a retracted position at a first end 228 of the ejector 204 and an extended position at a second end 230 of the ejector 204. Thus, the ejector 204 is configured to translate the buffer 232 along a linear path from the rear wall 110 toward the front wall 108. In one example, the buffer 232 is attached to a belt 234 by a carrier 236, wherein the belt extends continuously around a pair of pulleys 238 disposed at opposite ends 228, 230 of the ejector 204. Thus, when the belt 234 rotates in a first direction, the buffer 232 moves toward the extended position, and when the belt 234 rotates in an opposite second direction, the buffer 232 moves toward the retracted position. In other examples, the buffer 232 can be linearly translated by other devices, such as a linear screw, a cylinder, and the like.

[0058] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the incubator 300 includes a pair of opposing heating units 302 configured to maintain the chamber 102 at a uniform and desired temperature. In particular, Figure 7 The first heating unit of the heating unit 302 is shown disposed on the left wall 112 between the left lift 206a of the front lift 202a and the rear lift 202b. Figure 8 A second of the heating units 302 is shown disposed on the right wall 114 between the front lift 202a and the right lift 206b of the rear lift 202b. Thus, the chamber 102 is provided with heating units 302 on opposite sides and in a position substantially centered between the front of the chamber 102 and the rear of the chamber 102.

[0059] refer to Fig. 9 , an example of one of the heating units 302 associated with the elevator 206a on the left side of the chamber 102 is provided. The heating unit 302 on the right side of the chamber 102 is substantially the same as the heating unit 302 shown. Each of the heating units 302 includes an inlet 304 disposed adjacent to the top wall 106 and an outlet 306 disposed adjacent to the bottom 104. The outlet 304 is in direct fluid communication with the inlet 306 via a heating conduit 308, which includes a plurality of heating elements 310 disposed therein.

[0060] As shown, the inlet 304 of each heating unit 302 is disposed adjacent to the top wall 106. The inlet 304 may be provided with a grill having a plurality of louvers oriented to evenly distribute air along the top wall 106. An outlet 306 is disposed at an end of the heating conduit 308 opposite the inlet 304 and is configured to pull air from the inlet 304 through the heating conduit 308 and push the air along the bottom 104 of the chamber 102. The outlet 306 is oriented at an oblique angle relative to the bottom 104, whereby the outlet 306 is inclined toward the bottom 104 and faces the opposite wall of the chamber 102. The outlet 306 includes a fan 312 configured to pull air from the top wall 106 of the chamber 102 into the heating unit 302. Although described as pulling air from the top of chamber 102 and exhausting the heated air at the bottom of chamber 102, the direction of air flow can be reversed to pull air upward through heating duct 308 from the bottom of chamber 102 and exhaust the heated air at the top of chamber 102.

[0061] like Fig. 9 As shown in , a plurality of heating elements 310 may be disposed within the heating conduit 308 to gradually heat the air flow as it passes from the inlet 304 to the outlet 306. In the example shown, the heating elements 310 are sequentially arranged along the length of the heating conduit 308 in a direction from the inlet 304 to the outlet 306, and are staggered or offset from one another along the width of the heating conduit 308. Thus, a portion of the air flow passing through the heating conduit 308 is distributed between each heating element 310, thereby maximizing heating efficiency.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , interaction with and operation of the food management system 10 is facilitated by a control system 400. The control system includes one or more processors 402, a memory 404, a communication unit 406, and an input / output module 408. Each of the components 402, 404, 406, 408 may be interconnected (physically, communicatively, and / or operationally) via a communication channel for inter-component communication. The control system 400 may further include an operating system 410 that can be executed by the one or more processors 402.

[0063] In one example, the processor 402 is configured to implement functions and / or process instructions executed within the control system 400. For example, the processor 402 may be capable of processing instructions stored in the memory 404 for operating the dispensing system 200 and / or controlling the warmer 300. Examples of the processor 402 may include any one or more of a microprocessor, a controller (e.g., a programmable logic controller), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or equivalent discrete logic circuits or integrated logic circuits.

[0064] In one example, the memory 404 is configured to store information within the control system 400 during operation. In some examples, the memory 404 is described as a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including memory hardware. In some examples, the memory 404 is used to store program instructions for execution by the processor 402. In one example, the memory 404 is used by software or applications running on the control system 400 to temporarily store information during program execution.

[0065] In some examples, the control system 400 further includes a communication unit 406. In one example, the control system 400 uses the communication unit 406 to communicate with an external device via one or more communication channels (such as one or more wired and / or wireless networks). The communication unit 406 can be a network interface card, such as an Ethernet card, an optical transceiver, a radio frequency transceiver, or any other type of device that can send and receive information. Other examples of such a communication unit 406 can include a cellular radio and a WiFi radio. In some examples, the control system 400 uses the communication unit 406 to communicate wirelessly with an external device such as the user device 16.

[0066] In one example, the control system 400 further includes an input / output module 408, which includes input devices and output devices of the control system 400. In some examples, the input device is configured to receive input from an operator of the food management system 100 through tactile, audio, or video feedback. Examples of input devices include buttons, presence-sensitive screens, mice, keyboards, voice response systems, cameras, microphones, or any other type of device for detecting commands from an operator. One or more output devices may also be included in the control system 400. In some examples, the output device is configured to provide output to a user using tactile, audio, or video stimulation. In one example, the output device includes a presence-sensitive screen, a sound card, a video graphics adapter card, or any other type of device for converting a signal into an appropriate form understandable to a human or machine. Additional examples of output devices include speakers, cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), or any other type of device that can generate understandable output for an operator.

[0067] The control system 400 may include an operating system 410. In some examples, the operating system 410 controls the operation of components of the control system 400. For example, in one example, the operating system 410 facilitates interaction of one or more applications and / or modules with the processor 402, the memory 404, the communication unit 406, and the input / output module 408.

[0068] Reference again Figure 1, the food distribution environment 1000 includes a plurality of users 14 each associated with one or more user devices 16. The user devices 16 are configured to communicate with the food management system 10 via the communication unit 406 of the control system 400. The user devices 16 may include a personal computer, a tablet computer, a mobile phone, or any other device capable of providing a user interface and communicating with the food management system 10.

[0069] Typically, the cabinet 100 is configured to store a plurality of containers C on each of the elevators 202a, 202b, wherein the elevators 202a, 202b sequentially present at least one of the containers C to a dispensing area R adjacent to the top wall 106 of the cabinet 100. D , whereby the ejector 204 may bias at least one of the containers C through the channel 136 of the chute 118 for retrieval by one of the users 14. The user 14 may interact with the cabinet 100 via the communication module 406 using one of the user devices 16, or may interact with the cabinet 100 directly using the input / output module 408. For example, the user 14 may initiate and process a transaction using the user device 16, and then request the dispensing of a container C from the cabinet 100 using the input / output module 408.

[0070] In operation, initially, containers C can be loaded into the cabinet 100 through the front wall 108 by removing the access panel 116. As described above, the door 154 of the cabinet 100 is operable between an upright position and a lowered position, wherein the door 154 separates the front lift 202a and the rear lift 202b when it is in the upright position and allows access to the rear lift 202b when it is in the lowered position. Therefore, during loading of the cabinet 100, the door 154 is moved to the lowered position to allow the container C to be loaded into the rear lift 202b.

[0071] As described above, the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b can be synchronously driven by a single motor 226. Therefore, containers C can be loaded into the respective slots 218 of the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b in a manner that will allow the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b to continuously present at least one container C to the ejector 204 for dispensing. In an alternative example, the front elevator 202a and the rear elevator 202b can be independently powered, thereby presenting a container from one of the elevators 202a, 202b to the ejector 204 without traveling the other of the elevators 202a, 202b.

[0072] Each of the slots 218 may be serialized with an identification number, whereby a unique type or combination of containers C may be loaded into each of the slots 218 and tracked by the control system 400. For example, the front elevator 202a may be provided with containers C having customized ingredients ordered by a customer, where the containers C are arranged on the front elevator 202a based on a predetermined vehicle delivery sequence, while the rear elevator 202b may be provided with a plurality of containers C having predetermined and standardized ingredients, which may be purchased directly from the food management system 10.

[0073] When the user 14 desires to obtain one or more containers C from the cabinet 100, a distribution request may be submitted to the cabinet via the control system 400 using the input / output module 408 or one of the user devices 16. The control system 400 then determines which of the elevators 202a, 202b contains the desired container C and causes the corresponding elevator 202a, 202b to travel toward the top wall 106 for presentation to the ejector 204. After the desired container C is lifted to the distribution area R D In the case of the ejector 204, the controller 400 instructs the ejector 204 to move the buffer 232 from the retracted position at the first end 228 of the ejector 204 to the extended position at the second end 230 of the ejector to bias the container toward the chute 118. When the container C is dispensed from the cabinet 100, the bottom surface of the container C can pass over the top surface 164 of the guide rail 162 and the upper surface 142 of the lip 140.

[0074] In one example, only the front lift 202a presents the container C to the ejector 204. Here, the buffer 232 may be initially disposed at an intermediate position between the first end 228 and the second end 230, more specifically, at an intermediate position between the front lift 202a and the rear lift 202b. To dispense the container C from the front lift 202a, the buffer 232 is moved toward the extended position, whereby the buffer 232 contacts the rearwardly facing surface of the container C to bias the container C toward the chute 118. The front edge or front surface of the container C may pass over the upper surface 142 of the lip 140 to be guided into the channel 136. When the container enters the channel 136, the door 144 may be automatically opened (i.e., the door is independently powered and controlled), or the door may be a passive door 144 that is biased to an open position by the front edge of the container C. Once a container C is dispensed, the ejector 204 returns the buffer 232 to the intermediate or retracted position, and the elevators 202 a , 202 b travel to present a subsequent container C to the ejector 204 .

[0075] In another example, only the rear lift 202b presents the container to the ejector 204. Here, the buffer 232 is initially disposed in the retracted position. In order to dispense the container C from the rear lift 202b, the buffer 232 is moved toward the extended position, whereby the buffer 232 contacts the rearwardly facing surface of the container C to bias the container C toward the chute 118. Since the container C is dispensed from the rear lift 202b, the front edge or front surface of the container C may first pass over the top surface 164 of the guide rail 162, thereby guiding the front edge of the container C to the upper support surface 220 of the front lift 202a. From there, the buffer 232 biases the container C above the upper surface 142 of the lip 140 and into the channel 136. When the container C enters the channel 136, the door 144 may be automatically opened (that is, the door is independently powered and controlled), or the door may be a passive door 144 that is biased to an open position by the front edge of the container C. Once a container C is dispensed, the ejector 204 returns the buffer 232 to the intermediate or retracted position, and the elevators 202 a , 202 b travel to present a subsequent container C to the ejector 204 .

[0076] In some examples, two lifts 202a, 202b can present container C to ejector 204 at the same time. Here, buffer 232 can bias container C of rear lift 202b toward chute 118. As a result, container C of rear lift 202b moves across guide rail 162 and contacts container C of front lift 202a. Therefore, container C of front lift 202a and rear lift 202b are biased toward chute 118 by ejector 204 at the same time. In some examples, two containers C can be allocated in one transaction. Alternatively, container C of front lift 202a can be allocated only, while container C of rear lift 202b is only relocated to front lift 202a and can be allocated in separate transactions.

[0077] When containers C are loaded into the chamber 102, the incubator 300 is configured to provide uniform and continuous temperature control by circulating heated air throughout the chamber 102. In particular, by providing heating units 302 on opposite sides of the chamber 102, wherein each heating unit 302 draws air from the bottom of the chamber 102 and exhausts heated air at the top of the chamber 102.

[0078] For the purpose of illustration and description, the foregoing description has been provided. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present disclosure. Each element or feature of a specific construction is generally not limited to the specific construction, but is interchangeable and can be used in a selected construction even if not specifically shown or described, where applicable. Each element or feature of the specific construction can also be changed in many ways. Such modification should not be considered to deviate from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included in the scope of the present disclosure.

[0079] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific exemplary configurations and are not restrictive. When used herein, the singular articles "one", "an" and "said" may also include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprise", "comprises", "includes" and "have" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. Unless explicitly identified as an execution order, the method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as having to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown. Additional or alternative steps may be adopted.

[0080] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on", "engaged to", "connected to", "attached to" or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached to or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be an intermediate element or layer. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on", "directly engaged to", "directly connected to", "directly attached to" or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intermediate element or layer. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements (e.g., "between" and "directly between", "adjacent" and "directly adjacent", etc.) should be interpreted in a similar manner. When used in this article, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items.

[0081] In this article, the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Unless the context clearly indicates, otherwise the terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teaching of exemplary configurations, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer or part.

Claims

1. A food management system, comprising: a cabinet having a chamber and a slide, the slide defining a passage extending from the chamber to an exterior of the cabinet; at least one elevator disposed within the chamber, the elevator including a plurality of slots configured to receive a plurality of containers therein and operable to present at least one of the containers to a dispensing area of ​​the cabinet by translation of the plurality of containers; as well as An ejector is operable to eject the at least one container presented to the dispensing area from the at least one elevator through the chute.

2. The food management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The at least one elevator includes a first elevator disposed adjacent to a front wall of the cabinet and a second elevator disposed at a side of the first elevator opposite to the front wall.

3. The food management system of claim 2, further comprising a door disposed between the first elevator and the second elevator.

4. The food management system according to claim 2, characterized in that: The first lift includes a first elevator having a plurality of first slots and a second elevator opposite to the first elevator and including a plurality of second slots, wherein each of the plurality of first slots cooperates with one of the plurality of second slots to receive one of the containers.

5. The food management system according to claim 4, characterized in that: Each of the first and second elevators is a conveyor belt including a plurality of flights defining a support surface for one of the slots.

6. The food management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The ejector includes a belt and a bumper attached to the belt.

7. The food management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The chute is disposed at a first end of the front wall of the cabinet adjacent to the top wall of the cabinet and defines the passage through the front wall, the passage being configured to receive one of the containers therethrough.

8. The food management system according to claim 1, further comprising a warmer disposed in the chamber.

9. The food management system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The insulator includes a first heating unit and a second heating unit arranged opposite to the first heating unit, each of the first heating unit and the second heating unit includes an outlet adjacent to the bottom of the cabinet and an inlet adjacent to the top wall of the cabinet, wherein the inlet and outlet of the first heating unit are opposite to the inlet and outlet of the second heating unit.

10. The food management system according to claim 1, characterized in that: The slide is disposed along a front wall of the cabinet, the front wall including a removable access panel.

11. A food management system, comprising: a cabinet having a chamber and a slide, the slide defining a passage extending from the chamber to an exterior of the cabinet; at least one elevator disposed within the chamber, the elevator comprising a plurality of slots, the plurality of slots each configured to receive a container therein, the slots being operable to translate a container to a dispensing area of ​​the cabinet, wherein one of the slots defines a support surface for the dispensing area; as well as An ejector includes a bumper operable to translate through the dispensing area to bias a container of the at least one elevator and located in the dispensing area toward the chute.

12. The food management system according to claim 11, characterized in that: The at least one elevator includes a first elevator disposed adjacent to a front wall of the cabinet and a second elevator disposed at a side of the first elevator opposite to the front wall.

13. The food management system of claim 12, further comprising a door disposed between the first elevator and the second elevator.

14. The food management system according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first lift includes a first elevator having a plurality of first slots and a second elevator opposite the first elevator and including a plurality of second slots, wherein each of the plurality of first slots cooperates with one of the plurality of second slots to receive the container.

15. The food management system according to claim 14, characterized in that: Each of the first and second elevators is a conveyor belt including a plurality of flights defining a support surface for one of the slots.

16. The food management system according to claim 11, characterized in that: The ejector includes a belt to which the bumper is attached.

17. The food management system according to claim 11, characterized in that: The chute is disposed at a first end of the front wall of the cabinet adjacent to the top wall of the cabinet and defines a passage through the front wall configured to receive the container therethrough.

18. The food management system of claim 11, further comprising a warmer disposed within the chamber.

19. The food management system according to claim 18, characterized in that: The incubator includes a first heating unit and a second heating unit opposite to the first heating unit, each of the first heating unit and the second heating unit includes an outlet adjacent to the bottom of the cabinet and an inlet adjacent to the top wall of the cabinet, wherein the inlet and outlet of the first heating unit are opposite to the inlet and outlet of the second heating unit.

20. The food management system according to claim 11, characterized in that: The slide is disposed along a front wall of the cabinet, the front wall including a removable access panel.

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