User guidance for food preparation device

Abstract

A food preparation device may be improved by providing guidance to a user. The guidance may include identifying appropriate options or functions for food preparation to simplify the user's process. The guidance may include analyzing initial instructions for food preparation to identify subsequent preparation actions. The guidance may include a limited subset of options for a next instruction for food preparation based on the analysis.

Description

[0001] Priority

[0002] This application claims priority to Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 476,209, filed on December 20, 2022, entitled "USER GUIDANCE FOA FOOD PURINGDEVICE (User Guidance for Food Preparation Devices)", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a food preparation device that provides guidance to a user regarding food preparation. Background Art

[0004] Food preparation devices can include instructions for preparing and / or cooking food. However, for more complex food preparation devices or to coordinate multiple functions, additional guidance may be beneficial. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention relates to a method, system, or device and / or computer program product for an improved food preparation device that provides guidance to a user regarding food preparation. The guidance can include identifying appropriate options or functions for food preparation to simplify the user's process. The guidance can include analyzing initial instructions for food preparation to identify subsequent preparation actions. The guidance can include a limited subset of options for the next instruction for food preparation based on the analysis.

[0006] In one embodiment, a method for food preparation includes receiving initial instructions for food preparation; analyzing the initial instructions to identify subsequent preparation actions based on the initial instructions; and providing guidance based on the analysis, wherein the guidance includes a limited subset of options for the next instruction for food preparation. The analysis includes determining the order of food preparation, and the subsequent preparation action is the next instruction in the order. The initial instructions include one or more functions for preparing food. The one or more functions include at least one of cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, frying, air frying, baking, roasting, grilling, reheating, steaming, dehydrating, thawing, or microwave heating, stir-frying, sautéing, barbecuing, coffee grinding, brewing, dispensing, or blending. The method includes measuring one or more conditions of the food with one or more sensors; and modifying the guidance based on the measured one or more conditions. The conditions include weight, temperature, humidity, density, volume, brittleness, or combustion particles.

[0007] In another embodiment, a food preparation apparatus includes one or more food preparation functions selectable by a user; a guidance circuit configured to: receive an initial instruction for the selected function; analyze the initial instruction to identify a subsequent function based on the initial instruction; and provide guidance based on the analysis, wherein the guidance includes a limited subset of the functions for the next instruction. The analysis includes determining a sequence of the functions, and the next instruction in the sequence is the next function in the sequence. The initial instruction includes one or more of the functions for preparing food. The one or more functions include at least one of cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, frying, air frying, baking, roasting, grilling, reheating, steaming, dehydrating, thawing, or microwave heating, sautéing, stir-frying, barbecuing, coffee grinding, brewing, dispensing, or blending. The guidance circuit is further configured to: measure one or more conditions of the food with one or more sensors; and modify the guidance based on the one or more measured conditions. The conditions include weight, temperature, humidity, density, volume, crispness, or combustion particles. A food preparation system includes the above food preparation apparatus and an electronic device in communication with the food preparation apparatus. The electronic device includes a mobile device having an application for interacting with the food preparation apparatus. In some embodiments, a device includes a processor and a memory, and the processor is configured to read code from the memory and implement any of the above embodiments.

[0008] In some embodiments, a computer program product includes computer-readable program medium code stored thereon, which when executed by a processor causes the processor to implement any of the above embodiments. In some embodiments, there is a device including a processor and a memory, wherein the processor is configured to read code from the memory and implement any method described in any of the embodiments. In some embodiments, a computer program product includes computer-readable program medium code stored thereon, the code which when executed by a processor causes the processor to implement any embodiment. The above and other aspects and their implementations are described in more detail in the drawings, the description, and the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The drawings illustrate the principles of the present invention according to specific embodiments. Accordingly, the present invention can also be implemented in other embodiments, such that these drawings are to be construed only as examples. Further, in the drawings, the same reference numerals always denote corresponding modules or items in different drawings.

[0010] Figure 1 A block diagram of a preparation apparatus is shown.

[0011] Figure 2 A block diagram of a guidance circuit for a preparation apparatus is shown.

[0012] Figure 3 A block diagram of a user interface for a preparation device is illustrated.

[0013] Figure 4 An example user interface for a preparation device is illustrated.

[0014] Figure 5 A second example user interface for a preparation device is illustrated.

[0015] Figure 6A A third example user interface for a preparation device is illustrated.

[0016] Figure 6B An alternative preset for a preparation device from the third example user interface is shown.

[0017] Figure 6C An alternative preset for a preparation device from the third example user interface is shown.

[0018] Figure 7 A block diagram of another exemplary preparation device having an electronic device for guidance is shown.

[0019] Figure 8 Example inputs and outputs for guidance are shown.

[0020] Figure 9 A flow of an example of guidance using a preparation device is shown.

[0021] Figure 10 A flow of an example function is shown. Detailed Description

[0022] As an introduction, the disclosed embodiments relate to an improved food preparation device that provides certain guidance to a user. The guidance may include identifying appropriate options or functions for food preparation to simplify the user's process. The guidance may include analyzing initial instructions for food preparation to identify subsequent preparation actions. The guidance may include a limited subset of options for the next instruction for food preparation based on the analysis.

[0023] In some embodiments, food preparation or cooking guidance may include:

[0024] A) Displaying available functions and options;

[0025] B) Limiting settings to a valid range;

[0026] C) Displaying the current cooking state;

[0027] D) Guiding the user through step - by - step cooking tasks / experiences;

[0028] E) Prompting context - based cooking instructions;

[0029] F) Display a warning or alert when an error is detected;

[0030] G) Provide additional information or explanations for the selected options; and / or

[0031] H) Adjust cooking settings to support custom recipes or preferences.

[0032] As described below, the guidance may include multiple of these elements. For example, the embodiment shown below utilizes prompts and context-based cooking instructions displayed to guide the user step by step through the task. The guidance may provide an indication of any problems / errors that may include alerts.

[0033] Figure 1 A block diagram of a preparation device 102 is shown. The preparation device 102 may include multiple functions 103a - 103n. The functions may be different operations or preparation mechanisms. Specifically, these functions may provide different ways to prepare food and may be used independently or together. Examples of different food preparation functions 103a - 103n include cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, frying, air frying, baking, roasting, grilling, reheating, steaming, dehydrating, thawing, or microwave heating, sautéing, stir-frying, barbecuing, coffee grinding, brewing, dispensing, or blending. The preparation device 102 may be any device that provides any of the functions 103a - 103n in the above examples. The preparation device 102 may be an air fryer, a microwave oven, an oven, a steamer, a pressure cooker, a slow cooker, a coffee maker, a blender, a grill, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the preparation device 102 may also include beverage preparation, but will be described as food preparation for simplicity.

[0034] Figure 1 Multiple preparation functions 103 are shown. In one example, there is a first preparation function 103a, a second preparation function 103b, or an nth preparation function 103n, where n is an integer greater than one. These functions may be controlled by a guidance circuit 104 that provides guidance. The guidance described herein may relate to guidance for individual functions or for a series of functions. The guidance described below may also be referred to as hierarchical cooking or guided cooking, which may also be different embodiments of the guidance. In some embodiments, the guidance may be provided by the preparation device itself (e.g., Figure 1 ) or may be provided by an external electronic device (e.g., Figure 7 ).

[0035] The user 101 may operate the preparation device 102. There may be an interface that includes functions for receiving input and displaying output to the user 101. An example of this function is described below with reference to Figure 2 the user interface 204 in.

[0036] Functions 103a - 103n may include different food preparation functions. The guidance circuit 104 may be used to provide guidance to the user 101 for operating one or more of the functions 103a - 103n. Refer to Figure 2 The guidance circuit 104 is further described. In particular, the guidance circuit 104 may provide guidance to the user 101 for utilizing one or more of the functions 103a - 103n, including combinations of different functions as part of a food preparation process.

[0037] Figure 2 A block diagram of the guidance circuit 104 of the preparation device 102 is shown. The guidance circuit 104 may be referred to as a computing device, a processor, a circuit board, a chip, or a microcomputer through which calculations or processing are performed. In one embodiment, the guidance circuit 104 may be software running on a computing device as shown in Figure 2 The guidance circuit 104 may include a processor 210, a memory 208, software 206, and / or a user interface 204. In an alternative embodiment, the guidance circuit 104 may be multiple devices providing different functions, and it may or may not include all of the user interface 204, software 206, memory 208, and / or processor 210. Although described as the guidance circuit 104, it may include functions for controlling other aspects of the preparation device 102, including but not limited to the preparation functions 103a - 103n. In one embodiment, there may be a single circuit or processor for providing guidance, controlling the preparation device 102, and the functions 103a - 103n. In other embodiments, there may be a processor separate from the guidance circuit 104. For simplicity, the guidance and functions are described as being controlled by the guidance circuit 104.

[0038] The user interface 204 may allow communication with the user 101. Examples of the user interface 204 are further described with reference to Figure 3 -6. The user interface 204 may include a display, which may be separate from the guidance circuit 104, or it may provide input to and output from the guidance circuit 104. The preparation device 102 may include a user interface 204 for providing information to the user 101. In one embodiment, the user interface 204 may be a display coupled to the processor 210 and configured to display the output from the processor 210, such as a message bar. The display (not shown) may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light emitting diode (OLED), a flat panel display, a solid state display, a cathode ray tube (CRT), or other currently known or later developed display device for outputting determined information. The display may act as an interface for the user to view the functions of the processor 210, or as an interface with the software 206 for providing guidance for operating the functions of the preparation device.

[0039] In some embodiments, the user interface 204 may also provide a mechanism for the user 101 to interact with the preparation device 102, such as by providing commands with user input. The commands may be part of the instructions and provide the user 101 with input to the functions 103a - 103n. In some embodiments, the user interface 204 may include buttons, a touchscreen display, a keypad or cursor control device, a remote control, a wireless device (e.g., a computing device, a smart phone, a tablet, etc.), or any other device operable to allow a user or administrator to interact with the preparation device 102. In some embodiments, the interface may include voice control or audio input for receiving commands and / or providing feedback as part of the instructions. In other embodiments, the user interface 204 may include an input for scanning (e.g., scanning a food / recipe code) or sensor input (e.g., proportion, temperature, etc.), or any other mechanism for receiving user information about the function and / or the food being prepared. This may include any information about what is being prepared / cooked (including but not limited to recipes), which may help define an appropriate cooking time, and the appropriate cooking time may be part of the instructions.

[0040] The instructions described herein may be conveyed through the user interface 204. Other examples of the user interface 204 are referenced Figure 3 -6, and the instructions may include information about the functions, including input / output for food preparation settings (e.g., functions, time, temperature, pressure, weight, humidity, density, etc.). The user interface 204 display (e.g., Figure 3 the message bar in -6) may display information about the cooking settings or functions.

[0041] Figure 3 A block diagram of the user interface 204 for a preparation device is illustrated. The user interface 204 may allow the user 101 to interact with the preparation device. Figure 3 The example user interfaces in show a first input 303a, a second input 303b to an nth input 303n, where n is an integer. The inputs may include buttons, knobs, dials, a touchscreen display, touchscreen buttons, a keypad or cursor control device, a remote control, a wireless device (e.g., as Figure 7a computing device, a smart phone, a tablet computer, etc.) or any other device that operates to allow a user to interact with the preparation device 102. The inputs 303a - 303n allow the user to provide instructions to the preparation device. In some embodiments, those instructions from the user 101 provided at the inputs 303a - 303n may be the result of the guidance provided. In one embodiment, there may be an output 302 that provides feedback to the user 101. In some embodiments, the output 302 may include and / or be referred to as a message bar. In other examples, the output 302 may be any type of display or progress bar for communicating information to the user. The feedback provided may include guidance for instructing the user 101 to utilize one or more of the functions of the preparation device. The output 302 may display available functions and instructions or recommendations for those functions.

[0042] The output 302 may be an example of a display or output that provides guidance. It may include an explanation of the settings, provide a warning, or provide predefined preparation instructions. Although the guidance may be described as instructions in several embodiments, it may also include setting information or warnings. The output 302 may further provide a detailed cooking status and preparation process. The settings of the food preparation device may be displayed on the output 302, including the cooking level, temperature, etc. There may also be a progress bar that shows the position of the food preparation device in the sequence of functions.

[0043] The guidance may include specific instructions for the user. In addition to instructions for the function sequence or the next function, there may also be instructions for changing the food or the current preparation. For example, adding food, flipping the food, opening the lid, waiting, and / or cooling may be possible guidance instructions for the user that are displayed on the output 302. There may also be error messages displayed by the output 302, such as closing the LID, locking the LID, or other error conditions.

[0044] In some embodiments, the output 302 may also include an input as part of it. In other words, one of the inputs 303 may be part of the output 302, such as a message bar. In one embodiment, the message bar may also be used to accept user input. There may be separate inputs (such as knobs / buttons / touchscreens) to traverse predefined options displayed on the message bar. The user may also confirm the selection through the same or different inputs. This allows the user to specify or customize cooking requirements. In some embodiments, this information (cooking requirements) may be relayed through other devices (such as an app on a smart phone), but for this particular embodiment, the user is provided with an input to enter this information without relying on another device.

[0045] In some embodiments, a food preparation device can provide personalized guided food preparation with context-based intelligence, which can automate and optimize food preparation settings based on user input and / or sensors. The guidance can include analysis for optimizing user interaction and preparation efficiency.

[0046] Figure 4 An example user interface for a preparation device is illustrated. Figure 4 The user interface shown in is an example of an interface for a preparation device. There can be additional inputs and / or outputs. In some embodiments, there can be one or more outputs 302. In Figure 4 In, an example output is a message bar 402 that provides feedback to the user, and in this example, the message bar 402 provides an indication of the device function, which in this example is "Cooking". Figure 4 Different functions 403 are shown in, including microwave, bake, roast, air fry, combination cooking, stage cooking, automatic cooking, defrost, or keep warm. These functions are Figure 1 examples of the functions 103a - 103n shown in. The functions 403 can each be inputs (such as buttons) selected by the user. The interface also shows additional functions 404, which include changing the timer / clock, adding 30 seconds, or adjusting the turntable. There can be interactive buttons / knobs 405 for providing additional selections. Finally, Figure 4 a stop / clear button and a start button 406 are shown.

[0047] For the example function 403, stage cooking can be established by guiding the user through each stage of the process via the message bar 402. For example, the message bar can convey the function / time / temperature of each stage. This can be provided after receiving user input for the initial settings. For transitions between stages, the information bar 402 can also guide the user in transitioning between each stage (e.g., when the user has to make a change, such as adding ingredients at one stage).

[0048] Figure 4 The interface in shows the functions of the preparation device. As described below, there can be guidance for using these functions. In one example, the guidance can be conveyed to the user via the message bar 402. In other embodiments, the guidance can be conveyed to the user via an additional display on the preparation device or via a separate device (e.g., Figure 7 the electronic device in ).

[0049] Figure 5 A second example user interface for a preparation device is illustrated. Figure 5 shows Figure 4 an alternative interface to the interface shown in. Different preparation devices can have different interfaces and input / output arrangements. Figure 5The example functions shown include pressure cooking, stir-frying, steaming, sous vide, low-temperature vacuum, yogurt, air frying, baking, roasting, toasting, dehydrating, and proofing. Additional operations include delayed start, steam release, and keep warm. In Figure 5 the message bar 502 is shown in the middle of the example interface. Additionally, there is another display above the message bar, which is another example that shows different outputs 302 of temperature, timer, and operations (preheat, cook, and keep warm) in this embodiment. Although not labeled, a progress bar is shown under the functions (preheat, cook, keep warm). The temperature and time can be further adjusted, for example, by a knob or other input.

[0050] Figure 6A A third user interface is shown, which may include information about Figures 3 - 5 the functions and instructions shown and described. Different preparation devices may have different input / output interfaces and arrangements. Different preparation devices may have different input / output interfaces and arrangements. Regarding Figures 3 - 6C any features shown and described in each of them can be interchangeable and can be applied to each corresponding embodiment.

[0051] The example display 602 may include time tracking for each cooking stage shown (e.g., preheat, cook, keep warm, etc.). The adjacent display can control the temperature or pressure. As described above, there may be a message bar 604 for moving the text that includes instructions. The message bar 604 as discussed herein may display scrolling words for communicating with the user. The words can be in multiple languages. The example function buttons 606 may include access to different cooking functions and access to a preset library. For example, this may include pressure cooking, stir-frying, slow cooking, and preset selections / features 607.

[0052] The preset library feature 607 may also be referred to as a recipe library or a chef assist feature that provides cooking recommendations to the user. The user can rotate the knob to browse a predefined list of presets, such as rice, beef, chicken, cake, etc., which are shown on the message bar together with the cooking settings shown on the panel (and as Figures 6B - 6C shown). The user can press the knob to select a preset and view and change its default cooking settings before cooking using the recommended recipe. In some embodiments, the description can be customized by the user (e.g., "Weekend Chili"). Figures 6B - 6C Alternative presets 607 for a preparation device from a third example user interface are shown. Specifically, Figure 6B the preset for "White Rice" is illustrated, while Figure 6C the preset for "Mom's Pasta" is illustrated. In Figures 6B - 6CThe presets seen in [description] can be selected from a preset library and / or customized by the user (including all cooking parameters / functions and the naming of the presets). Specifically, the naming of the presets can include the preset buttons 608.

[0053] The preset / favorite button 608 depicts another feature where the user stores the functions that will be used most frequently as shortcuts in one of the buttons 608. For the displayed cooking settings (from default or updated cooking functions or from selected presets), the user can long-press one of the preset buttons 608 to save it. A short press on the defined preset button 608 will retrieve the stored cooking settings. Additionally, when saving a cooking setting to a preset button 608, the user can view and select a preferred name from a predefined list to label the preset button 608, as Figures 6B - 6C shown.

[0054] Additional buttons 610 including a cancel (X button) and a start (triangle) are shown. The large circle can be a kind of knob that can be rotated in either direction to scroll through the options shown in the message bar 604. The knob provides a mechanism for receiving user feedback.

[0055] Returning to the reference Figure 2 , the processor 210 in the guidance circuit 104 can include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), or other types of processing devices. The processor 210 can be one or more general-purpose processors, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits, field-programmable gate arrays, servers, networks, digital circuits, analog circuits, combinations thereof, or other currently known or later developed devices for analyzing and processing data. The processor 210 can operate in conjunction with a software program (i.e., software 206), such as manually generated (i.e., programmed) code. The software 206 can include functions for user interaction, including providing guidance.

[0056] The processor 210 can be coupled to the memory 208, or the memory 208 can be a separate component. The software 206 can be stored in the memory 208. The memory 208 can include, but is not limited to, computer-readable storage media, such as various types of volatile and non-volatile storage media, including random access memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable read-only memory, flash memory, magnetic tape or disk, optical media, etc. The memory 208 can include random access memory for the processor 210. Alternatively, the memory 208 can be separate from the processor 210, such as the cache memory of the processor, system memory, or other memory. The memory 208 is operable to store instructions executable by the processor 210.

[0057] Figure (e.g. Figures 8 - 9) The functions, acts, or tasks shown or described herein may be performed by a programmed processor that executes instructions stored in software 206 or memory 208. The functions, acts, or tasks are independent of the particular type of instruction set, storage medium, processor, or processing strategy, and may be performed by software, hardware, integrated circuits, firmware, microcode, etc., operating alone or in combination. Similarly, the processing strategy may include multiprocessing, multitasking, parallel processing, etc. The processor 210 is configured to execute software 206.

[0058] Figure 7 FIG. shows a block diagram of another exemplary preparation apparatus having an electronic device for guidance. Figure 7 is Figure 1 an alternative example. Specifically, Figure 7 FIG. shows the presence of an electronic device 710 that can provide guidance. The electronic device 710 may be a computing device, such as a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, a mobile device, etc. In an embodiment where the electronic device 710 is a mobile device, there may be an application (i.e., "app") connected to the preparation apparatus 102. The connected application may provide input / output to the preparation apparatus 102. In one example, the connected application may provide instructions to or receive instructions from the guidance circuit 704. The guidance circuit 704 may be the same as or different from the guidance circuit 104 in Figure 1 . In some embodiments, the function of the guidance circuit 704 to provide guidance to the functions of the preparation apparatus may be provided by the electronic device 710.

[0059] The interface for the electronic device 710 may include a customized experience based on data about the user 101, which may be available to the electronic device 710. For example, certain recipes or foods prepared by the user 101 may be used to provide future recommendations for foods and / or recipes. There may be machine learning components connected to the guidance circuit 104 and / or the electronic device 710 for learning the habits or interests of the user 101. The learning components may customize the guidance and recommendations.

[0060] There may be options for saving, sharing, or publishing food preparation. In one embodiment, sharing may be through a social networking website. For example, users may connect with each other to share recipes or tips for food preparation. One user may follow another user to receive those recipes or tips to be used with the food preparation apparatus. Recipes may be accessed online through an example database or shared by other users in the social network.

[0061] In some embodiments, there may be applications based on the connection to a device (e.g., an app on a mobile device). When the product is connected to a mobile device, the application may allow the user to customize recipes (e.g., substitute ingredients, change serving sizes, etc.). In other embodiments, the application may allow the user to receive recipe recommendations based on the user's diet, preferences, or foods available at home. In other embodiments, the application may allow the user to save and retrieve favorite recipes and / or cooking settings. In other embodiments, the application may support (hands-free) voice interaction (recognize voice commands and provide voice guidance). In other embodiments, the application may allow the user to customize the output of the device (e.g., sounds such as beeps for on / off, volume, tone, etc.).

[0062] The guidance circuit 104 can be used to implement Figures 8 - 9 the processes shown in the embodiments of. The guidance circuit 104 provides recommendations to the user 101 on the correct order of different functions. In addition, the guidance loop 104 can prevent certain function combinations (e.g., thawing after cooking). This guidance provides instructions to the user.

[0063] Phased steaming may refer to different stages of the method. The stages may be functions that are operated in a proper order. When a first function is selected, the guidance will display possible second functions. For example, after any cooking option, the thawing function will not be available. The limited options provided to the user can be part of the guidance. The limitation of options can be referred to as feedback. In some embodiments, an output or message bar can be used to provide instructions and feedback to the user.

[0064] Figure 8 Examples of input and output for guidance are shown. In some embodiments, the guidance 806 can be executed by the guidance circuit. The guidance 806 can receive an initial user input, which can include an initial instruction 802. The instruction 802 can include a function to be performed by the preparation device. In some embodiments, the initial guidance 802 can be the type of food to be prepared. Based on the initial instruction 802, the guidance 806 can be executed.

[0065] In some embodiments, there may be a sensor 804 that can be used in addition to, or instead of, the initial instructions 802. The sensor 804 can measure the condition of the food (e.g., weight, temperature, density, volume, crispness, combustion particles, etc.) or the environmental conditions in the food preparation device (e.g., humidity, temperature, etc.) to determine the function or determine how to prepare the food for a specific function. In some embodiments, the sensor 804 can identify the food and determine the function. In other embodiments, the data measured by the sensor 804 can be used to refine the guidance 806. The guidance 806 can provide instructions 808 that are provided to the user. The instructions 808 can be displayed or otherwise communicated to the user and can include a limited set of options for performing based on the initial instructions 802 and / or based on the data detected by the sensor 804. The guidance 806 can limit the options for the next instruction 808 based on the initial instructions 802 and / or the sensor 804.

[0066] The guidance 806 can also automatically execute the next instruction 810. In this embodiment, the guidance 806 performs the function without user interaction, which can be referred to as staged cooking. Although no guidance is provided to the user or subsequent user interaction is required, staged cooking with automatic execution by a food preparation device can be considered a type of guided cooking. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the user can provide subsequent interaction with the next instruction 808.

[0067] In one embodiment, the instructions can include a recipe for a specific food. The recipe can include preparation recommendations with the food. The recipe can be part of the initial instructions 802. In some embodiments, the recipe can be identified by an external computing device (e.g., electronic device 710) and used as an input to the guidance 806.

[0068] Figure 9Illustrated is a flow of an example guided by a food preparation device. At block 902, a first function is received from a user at the food preparation device. The function may include at least one of cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, frying, air frying, baking, roasting, grilling, reheating, steaming, dehydrating, thawing, or microwave heating, sautéing, stir-frying, barbecuing, coffee grinding, brewing, dispensing, or blending. Based on the identified first function, an analysis can be performed at block 904 to provide guidance to the user. If there is additional data at block 906, the data can be provided for analysis at block 908. The additional data can be input from the user regarding the first function or food preparation, or it can be from sensors that provide data regarding the food and / or the food preparation device. Based on the analysis at block 904 (with or without additional data at block 908), guidance is provided to the user at block 910. In one embodiment, the guidance is a sequence of additional functions to be performed after the first function. The sequence can be restricted based on the first function and based on the additional data.

[0069] A specific example of guiding food preparation can be making yogurt. The food preparation process of yogurt can be difficult, so the guidance provided can assist the user. An example of a method for a canned food preparation device is shown in Table 1:

[0070]

[0071]

[0072] Table 1: Guided Preparation of Yogurt

[0073] The yogurt example in Table 1 is an example of staged cooking that can utilize an interface as shown above, such as Figure 5 the interface shown in. These steps can include selections presented to the user in a message bar. Messages can be displayed from message bar 302. Above message bar 302 is a progress bar showing the progress of each stage. As shown in Table 1, the first stage / step includes a message that requires user interaction, such as "Open the lid to cool down."

[0074] Figure 10 Illustrated is a flow of an example function. The guidance can include a sequence of functions for the user. In particular, the user may be restricted as to which functions are available based on a previous function or other information regarding food preparation (e.g., sensor data, etc.). In Figure 10 it is shown the restriction of the function sequence. Preventing the user from selecting an incorrect sequence of functions results in a more user-friendly food preparation device. Figure 10The examples shown are described as stages, but can also be considered as functional sequences as described herein. In this example, thawing is always done first and no other function can follow. In another example, when the microwave function is performed first, the subsequent available functions are air frying, baking, or roasting. After baking, there may be an interrupt function for a third stage. As described above, the analysis performed can consider the functional sequence to provide guidance to the user for efficient food preparation.

[0075] The meaning of specific details should be construed as examples within the embodiments, rather than exhaustive or limiting the invention to the exact forms disclosed within the examples. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention can also be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods, implementations, modules, entities, data sets, etc. In other instances, well-known structures, computer-related functions or operations have not been shown or described in detail, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0076] The above discussion is intended to provide a brief, general description of a suitable computing environment in which the invention can be implemented (which can be different types such as a client-server architecture or an Internet / browser network, etc.). The invention will be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions such as software modules, which can be combined with hardware modules and executed by different computers in a network environment. Generally, program modules or software modules include routines, programs, objects, classes, instances, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. Computer-executable instructions, related data structures, and program modules represent examples of program code means for performing the steps of the methods described herein. The particular order of such executable instructions, method steps, or related data structures only represents an example of the corresponding activities for implementing the functions described herein. The method can also be executed iteratively.

[0077] Those skilled in the art can understand that the invention can be implemented in a network computing environment having a variety of types of computer system configurations, including personal computers (PCs), handheld devices (e.g., smart phones), multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, laptop computers, etc. In addition, the invention can be implemented in a distributed computing environment where computer-related tasks are performed by local or remote processing devices linked by a communication network (either through a hardwired link, a wireless link, or a combination of hardwired or wireless links). In a distributed computing environment, program modules can be located in local or remote devices, memory systems, retrievals, or data stores.

[0078] Typically, the method according to the present invention can be executed on a single computer or on several computers linked by a network. The computer can be a general computing device in the form of a conventional computer, including a processing unit, a system memory, and a system bus that couples various system components, including the system memory, to the processing unit. The system bus can be any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of various bus architectures, which may be used in a clinical / medical system environment. The system memory includes read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). The basic input / output system (BIOS) can be stored in one of the memories, and this system contains basic routines having functions such as transferring information between elements within the computer during startup. Additionally, the computer can also include a hard disk drive and other interfaces for user interaction. The drive and its associated computer-readable medium provide non-volatile or volatile storage of computer-executable instructions, data structures, program modules, and related data items. The user interface can be a keyboard, a pointing device, or other input devices (not shown in the figure), such as a microphone, a joystick, a mouse. Additionally, an interface to other systems can be used. These and other input devices are typically connected to the processing unit through a serial port interface coupled to the system bus. Other interfaces include the universal serial bus (USB). Furthermore, a monitor or another display device is also connected to the computer of the system through an interface such as a video adapter. In addition to the monitor, the computer typically includes other peripheral output or input devices (not shown), such as speakers and printers or an interface for data exchange. Local and remote computers are coupled to each other through logical and physical connections, which can include servers, routers, network interfaces, peer devices, or other common network nodes. The connections can be local area network connections (LAN) and wide area network connections (WAN), which can be used within an intranet or the Internet. Additionally, the network environment typically includes a modem, a wireless link, or any other device for establishing communication through the network.

[0079] In addition, the network typically includes means for data retrieval, particularly for accessing data storage devices, such as repositories, etc. Network data exchange can be coupled by using proxies and other servers.

[0080] The exemplary embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects. Thus, the scope of the present invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by this specification. All changes within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims will be included within their scope.

Claims

1. A method for food preparation, comprising: Receiving an initial instruction for food preparation; Analyzing the initial instruction to identify subsequent preparation actions according to the initial instruction; And Providing guidance based on the analysis, wherein the guidance includes a limited option subset of the next instruction for the food preparation.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the analysis includes determining a sequence of the food preparation, and the subsequent preparation action is the next instruction in the sequence.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the initial instruction includes one or more functions for preparing food.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the one or more functions include at least one of cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, frying, air frying, baking, roasting, grilling, reheating, steaming, dehydrating, thawing, or microwave heating, stir-frying, sautéing, barbecuing, coffee grinding, brewing, dispensing, or blending.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Measuring one or more conditions of the food with one or more sensors; And Modifying the guidance based on the measured one or more conditions.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the measured conditions include weight, temperature, humidity, density, volume, crispness, or combustion particles.

7. A food preparation device, comprising: One or more food preparation functions selectable by a user; A guidance circuit configured to: Receive an initial instruction for the selected function; Analyze the initial instruction to identify subsequent functions according to the initial instruction; and Provide guidance based on the analysis, wherein the guidance includes a limited subset of functions for the next instruction.

8. The food preparation device according to claim 7, wherein the analysis includes determining a sequence of the functions, and the next instruction in the sequence is the next function in the sequence.

9. The food preparation device according to claim 7, wherein the initial instruction includes one or more of the functions for preparing food.

10. The food preparation device according to claim 7, wherein the one or more functions include at least one of cooking, pressure cooking, slow cooking, frying, air frying, baking, roasting, grilling, reheating, steaming, dehydrating, thawing, or microwave heating, stir-frying, sautéing, barbecuing, coffee grinding, brewing, dispensing, or blending.

11. The food preparation device according to claim 7, wherein the guidance circuit is further configured to: Measure one or more conditions of the food with one or more sensors; and Modify the guidance based on the measured one or more conditions.

12. The food preparation device according to claim 11, wherein the measured conditions include weight, temperature, humidity, density, volume, crispness, or combustion particles.

13. A food preparation system, comprising: The food preparation device according to claim 7; An electronic device communicating with the food preparation device.

14. The food preparation system according to claim 13, wherein, The electronic device includes a mobile device having an application for interacting with the food preparation device.

15. The food preparation system according to claim 13, wherein, The one or more food preparation functions include preset functions.

16. The food preparation system according to claim 15, wherein a user selects one of the preset functions, and the guidance is based on the selected preset function.

17. A method for food preparation, comprising: providing preset options for food preparation; receiving a selection of one of the preset options; and providing guidance based on the received selection, wherein the guidance includes a limited subset of options for the next instruction for the food preparation.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, Receiving the selection includes the user cycling through the preset options and identifying one of the preset options.

19. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: displaying a plurality of preset buttons corresponding to the preset options, the plurality of preset buttons being configured to be set by the user.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein Receiving the selection includes the user selecting one of the displayed preset buttons.

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