Dispensing device for flowable solid food product and dispensing system for flowable solid food product

Abstract

The utility model relates to a distribution device (1) for flowable solid food, which comprises a control unit, a distribution unit (31) and a weighing unit (71), and the weighing unit is used for measuring the weight of a user container filled with liquid. The control unit calculates the actual amount of the flowable solid food to be distributed according to the age of the user, the tare weight of the user container, the actual weight of the user container, the ratio of the flowable solid food to the liquid and the ratio of the flowable solid food to the age, and when the weight of the user container is equal to the sum of the actual weight and the actual amount, the user container sends the to-be-distributed flowable solid food to the user container. The distribution is stopped. The utility model further relates to a distribution system for the flowable solid food.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of dispensing free-flowing solid foods, specifically to the field of dispensing milk powder, and especially milk powder used as infant food (formula milk powder for feeding infants).

[0002] More specifically, this invention relates to a dispensing device for flowable solid foods, and more particularly to a dispensing device suitable for metering and dispensing milk powder, such as milk powder used as infant food (formula milk powder for feeding infants). Background Art

[0003] There are many examples of liquid-solid foods, such as powders or granules, that need to be portioned or measured before use. Milk powder is a common example; it is usually packaged in bags or cans, and the user uses a spoon to measure the amount of powder. The measured powder is then poured into a bottle or cup.

[0004] In environments with high humidity, such as when using containers containing hot water, it has been found that the fine properties of milk powder combined with its hygroscopicity can negatively impact accurate measurement and the quality of the resulting liquid milk.

[0005] International patent application WO2010109225A2 describes a dispensing unit for a flowable solid material, comprising a movable flap door that closes the orifice of the dispensing unit, wherein a user container is able to move the flap door from a closed position to an open position. However, the dispensing unit described therein does have certain drawbacks. In particular, it has been noted that after prolonged use, a crust of partially hydrated milk powder accumulates around the orifice through which the milk powder is dispensed into the container, where it mixes with water. This crust accumulation is clearly undesirable, as it provides favorable conditions for bacterial growth and reduces the concentration of the mixed milk. The partially hydrated milk powder residue may pose a potential health hazard to the children in question due to harboring and nurturing bacteria, and it also affects the amount of milk powder placed in the container. Indeed, it is highly desirable to ensure that formula milk powder is kept as isolated as possible from its surrounding environment during storage to maintain its integrity and prevent contamination.

[0006] Furthermore, when scooping formula from a can or bag into a bottle or cup using a scoop, it's often difficult to avoid spilling some. Additionally, it's difficult to measure the exact amount of formula needed to prepare infant formula, so the actual amount that makes up a full scoop can vary considerably. This isn't important in many cases, but it's undesirable in the specific field of formula feeding infants, where the expectation is to prepare consistently consistent liquid formula for the child, rather than varying it each time. This is especially true when dispensing needs to be done at night or under difficult circumstances, as a lack of manual coordination can lead to spills and consequently, a reduced formula concentration.

[0007] Although measuring scoops are usually provided in formula cans, their use can be cumbersome due to the nature of the powder itself. Formula ingredients vary, which is related to the child's age; therefore, different types of measuring scoops are needed to ensure accurate dosage. In practice, it is highly desirable to ensure that the formula is measured as accurately as possible according to its ingredients. Furthermore, another disadvantage of using measuring scoops is hygiene-related, particularly the potential for contamination of the formula, as the user handles the scoop with their hand, and the scoop is then placed back into the can, coming into contact with the formula.

[0008] Automatic measuring devices are known, intended to replace the use of measuring spoons to ensure accurate measurement. In this regard, European patent application EP1615004A1 describes a powder measuring device comprising a valve device having a chamber for containing a predetermined volume of powder, wherein the volume of the chamber is adjustable to change the amount of powder to be measured. Nevertheless, the amount to be measured is fixed and is affected by the predetermined volume position of the chamber. The powder measuring device described therein may also include a weighing device for weighing the powder to be measured into a user container and connected to the valve device; the dosage accuracy is, in any case, affected by the accuracy of the valve device. Utility Model Content

[0009] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dispensing device for flowable solid food that can overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages to the greatest extent.

[0010] Specifically, the purpose of this invention is to provide a dispensing device for formula milk powder that can dispense in a precise manner while maintaining high hygiene and preservation standards.

[0011] In a first aspect of this invention, the above-mentioned objective is achieved by a dispensing device for flowable solid food, the dispensing device comprising:

[0012] - A storage container, which is capable of storing or supporting a container containing a flowable solid food;

[0013] - Support tray for user containers;

[0014] - A dispensing unit, operatively connected to a reservoir and having a dispensing port for dispensing flowable solid food into a user container;

[0015] - A control unit, operatively connected to the dispensing unit, for controlling the dispensing and portioning of flowable solid food into user containers;

[0016] The dispensing device further includes a weighing unit operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to measure the weight of the user's liquid-filled container at the support tray.

[0017] The control unit is configured to store data of multiple users by associating them with corresponding ages to define predetermined user data, and to store data of multiple user containers by associating them with corresponding tare weights to define predetermined user container data.

[0018] The control unit is configured to initiate a dispensing unit to dispense a required amount of flowable solid food into the user container, and to stop the dispensing unit when the weight of the user container equals the sum of the actual weight of the user container and the required amount. The required amount is calculated based on the age in one of the predetermined user profiles associated with a user, the tare weight in one of the predetermined user container profiles associated with a user container, the actual weight of the user container, and the ratio of flowable solid food to liquid and the ratio of flowable solid food to age.

[0019] By using a weighing unit, dispensing operations for multiple users, multiple user containers, and different types of flowable solid foods can be performed automatically, and dosages can be precisely controlled.

[0020] In one embodiment, the dispensing device further includes a reading unit capable of reading the data codes of a flowable solid food container.

[0021] The reading unit is operatively connected to the control unit, and

[0022] The control unit is configured to identify the type of flowable solid food to be dispensed by extracting flowable solid food type data from a data code, wherein the data code can define the flowable solid food / liquid ratio and the flowable solid food / age ratio.

[0023] By using data codes to identify the type of flowable solid food, it becomes possible to use multiple containers containing flowable solid food with different ingredients or properties. That is, the type of flowable solid food to be dispensed can be identified and used to calculate the actual amount of flowable solid food to be dispensed.

[0024] In one embodiment, the dispensing device further includes a temperature sensing unit operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to detect a sensed temperature related to the temperature at the dispensing port, the temperature of the user container, or the temperature of the contents of the user container.

[0025] The control unit activates the allocation unit only when the sensed temperature is lower than or equal to the predetermined allocation value.

[0026] By detecting the temperature at the dispensing spout, the user container, or the contents of the user container, it is possible to better control the dispensing of flowable solid foods only when a predetermined temperature or temperature range is detected. This, in turn, allows flowable solid foods to be dispensed when the contents of the user container are at the correct temperature, such as at a temperature at which the properties of the dispensed flowable solid food are maintained during mixing, which is particularly important for infant formula. Furthermore, by detecting the temperature at the dispensing spout, the user container, or the contents of the user container, flowable solid foods can be dispensed when the contents of the user container are at a temperature that prevents steam or moisture from entering the dispensing unit. In addition, measuring and displaying the sensed temperature simplifies the preparation of the user container (i.e., the baby bottle) while enhancing the safety of the user (infant) from scalding due to overheated water.

[0027] In one embodiment, the temperature sensing unit includes an infrared temperature sensor.

[0028] This allows for reliable detection of sensed temperatures without physical contact.

[0029] In one embodiment, the dispensing port is movable relative to the support tray from a closed position to an open position or from an open position to a closed position, wherein in the closed position, dispensing of the flowable solid food is prevented, and in the open position, dispensing of the flowable solid food is permitted.

[0030] Specifically, the control unit will only activate the distribution port to move to the open position when the sensed temperature is lower than the predetermined allocation value.

[0031] Closing the dispensing port directly prevents steam or moisture from entering the dispensing unit. In particular, the dispensing port can be in different positions relative to the fixed support tray, so that when in the closed position, the dispensing port moves away from the vertical virtual line corresponding to the nozzle position of the user container.

[0032] In one embodiment, the dispensing device further includes one or more fan units operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to displace air and / or steam at the dispensing port.

[0033] The control unit activates the fan unit only when the sensed temperature exceeds a predetermined set value.

[0034] Air displacement allows hot air and / or steam to be exhausted from the dispensing port. The fan unit can also be used to cool the temperature of the dispensing port or the contents of the user container.

[0035] In one embodiment, the dispensing device includes two fan units, wherein a first fan unit is arranged at the dispensing port to displace air and / or steam by blowing air into the dispensing port.

[0036] In this way, whether the dispensing port is open or closed, any steam or moisture can be deflected, thus preventing steam or moisture from coming into contact with the dispensing port.

[0037] In one embodiment, a second fan unit is arranged at a distance from the distribution port to displace air and / or steam by blowing air into the distribution port.

[0038] In this way, regardless of whether the distribution port is open or closed, any steam or moisture can be deflected by altering the air path, thus preventing steam or moisture from contacting the distribution port. This can be achieved simply by positioning the fan unit to blow air away from the distribution port, or by creating an air passage through which the fan unit blows air.

[0039] In one embodiment, the dispensing device further includes an air passage having an outlet end for air and / or steam disposed at or above the dispensing port.

[0040] The second fan unit is positioned above the distribution port, thereby defining the inlet end of the air passage.

[0041] This arrangement allows air to be drawn away from the user's container from the distribution port.

[0042] On the other hand, the above objective is achieved by a dispensing system for flowable solid foods, which includes a dispensing device for flowable solid foods according to the present invention, and multiple containers containing flowable solid foods with different ingredients or properties.

[0043] The aforementioned distribution system allows the use of multiple containers containing different ingredients or properties of flowable solid food while maintaining precise metering and high preservation standards. Attached Figure Description

[0044] These and other features and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the disclosure of the preferred embodiments, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings by way of non-limiting example, wherein:

[0045] Figure 1 This is a front plan view of the flowable solid food dispensing device according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Side plan cross-sectional view of the distribution device. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Figure 1 (Front view) and Figure 2 (Side plan view) shows a preferred embodiment of a dispensing device 1 for flowable solid food.

[0048] In this invention, the term "flowable solid food" refers to any type of edible product in a solid state, such as powder or granules, particularly for beverage products.

[0049] More specifically, the dispensing device according to this invention is suitable for metering and dispensing milk powder. However, there are many examples of free-flowing solid foods, powders, or granules that require portioning or metering during use, and the dispensing device of this invention can be used for such purposes.

[0050] The dispensing device 1 for flowable solid foods includes a reservoir 11 capable of supporting a container (not shown) containing flowable solid foods (e.g., formula milk powder). In this respect, the reservoir 11 defines a receiving space 111, such as... Figure 2 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the can is able to be stored substantially entirely inside, thereby defining a support or cover for the can.

[0051] The dispensing unit 31 is another part of the dispensing device 1 and is operatively connected to the reservoir 11. Thus, the reservoir 11 can support the container in such a way that flowable solid food can be directed to the dispensing unit 31, as explained in further detail below.

[0052] The dispensing unit 31 has a dispensing port 131 for dispensing flowable solid food into a user container (not shown). The shape of the dispensing port 131 allows for the dispensing of the desired amount of flowable food without overflowing relative to the opening size of the user container. Preferably, this shape has substantially parallel sides (or flared outwards) and a substantially vertical main axis, so that there is no surface on which any flowable solid food can easily remain or accumulate. Therefore, there are no residues that allow the material to absorb any atmospheric moisture or vapor from the user container. Figure 1-2 In the particularly preferred embodiment shown, the dispensing port 131 is a tube having a generally elliptical cross-section and parallel sides. Different shapes may be used depending on the embodiment (not shown).

[0053] The support for the user container is provided by the support tray 21 of the dispensing device 1, which is preferably fixed. The support surface 121 of the support tray 21 allows the user container to stand upright, particularly so that the opening or nozzle is aligned with the dispensing port 131 along a vertical virtual line (…). Figure 2 Alignment (represented by "A") is required, at least when dispensing flowable solid foods is permitted. For better positioning, the support surface 121 may be provided with a recessed area to facilitate identification of the alignment position and to securely hold the user container in such a position that, at least in the dispensing position, the dispensing port 131 is vertically above the opening of the user container.

[0054] Between the storage unit 11 and the distribution port 131, the distribution unit 31 is provided with a distribution mechanism, which will be described in more detail below.

[0055] The dispensing unit 31 includes an elongated cylindrical tube, the length of which is greater than its diameter, defining a conveying path from the reservoir 11 to the dispensing port 131. Specifically, the upper part of the elongated cylindrical tube has a funnel-shaped neck 431, which defines a large opening for guiding flowable solid food from the reservoir 11, while the lower part of the same elongated cylindrical tube has a smaller opening that integrates the dispensing port 131 for guiding flowable solid food to the user's container, both of which are in communication with the conveying path 331.

[0056] Therefore, the reservoir 11 can be connected to the dispensing unit 31 via a funnel-shaped neck 431, which allows for a mating connection between them and is provided with an end that abuts against the conveying passage 331 to guide flowable solid food.

[0057] The dispensing mechanism drives the flowable solid food from the reservoir 11 to the user container via a circulating metering screw 331' and a dispensing wheel 431'. The metering screw 331' is arranged inside the conveying passage 331 to push the flowable solid food toward the dispensing port 131. The dispensing wheel 431' is integrated into the funnel-shaped neck 431 to prevent powder bridging or clumping and to allow the flowable solid food to be dispensed onto the metering screw 331'.

[0058] According to this preferred embodiment, the dispensing device 1 further includes a drive source 531 located outside the dispensing unit 31. The drive source 531 is detachably connected to the metering screw 331', and can therefore be selectively connected to or detached from the metering screw 331'. The drive source 531 is used to rotate the metering screw 331' about an axis, which is the center line of the conveying passage 331.

[0059] In the preferred embodiment shown, the drive source 531 includes a rotating shaft with a protrusion capable of entering a metering screw 331'. The metering screw 331' has a recess shaped to mate with the rotating shaft protrusion. Magnetic elements can be mounted on the rotating shaft protrusion and in the metering screw recess. Figure 2 As can be seen, the drive source 531 is eccentrically connected to the dispensing unit 31, and further connected to the metering screw 331', wherein the drive source 531 is located outside the dispensing unit 31. In particular, in this embodiment, the drive source 531 is fixed relative to the dispensing unit 31 and can be detached from the rest of the dispensing device 1.

[0060] The drive source 531 may also include an electric motor, control electronics, and, if the distribution unit is to be operated by an internal power source, a battery compartment. If the distribution unit is to be operated by a main power source, the preferred configuration is to use a plug / transformer unit that inserts into a socket and is connected to the power input socket on the distribution unit via a suitable flexible wire and plug.

[0061] Therefore, the dispensing unit 31 can be removed as a single component from the rest of the dispensing device 1, thereby allowing for better maintenance and cleaning of all components that come into contact with the flowable solid food, such as the metering screw 331' and the dispensing wheel 431'.

[0062] A control unit (not shown) is operatively connected to the dispensing unit 31 to control the dispensing and portioning of flowable solid food into user containers. In particular, the control unit is capable of activating the dispensing mechanism in such a way that, upon receiving a request, it preferably dispenses the required amount of flowable solid food.

[0063] To ensure the accuracy of the measurement of flowable solid food, in this embodiment, the dispensing device 1 further includes a weighing unit 71, which is operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to measure the weight of the user container containing liquid at the support tray 21.

[0064] The control unit can store data for multiple users by associating them with corresponding ages to define predetermined user data, and can store data for multiple user containers by associating them with corresponding tare weights to define predetermined user container data. Furthermore, the control unit can calculate the actual amount of flowable solid food to be dispensed into the user containers based on the age in the selected predetermined user data, the tare weight in the selected predetermined user container data, the actual weight of the user containers, and the ratios of flowable solid food / liquid and flowable solid food / age. Finally, the control unit can activate the dispensing unit 31 to dispense the actual amount of flowable solid food into the user containers, and stop the dispensing unit 31 when the weight of the user containers equals the sum of the actual weight and the actual amount.

[0065] Therefore, by using the weighing unit 71, automated dispensing operations can be achieved among multiple users, multiple user containers, and different types of flowable solid food, and the dosage can be precisely controlled.

[0066] Specifically, the ratios of flowable solids / liquid (“liquid” refers to the liquid contained in the user’s container) and flowable solids / age (“age” refers to the age in the selected user profile) depend on the type of flowable solids to be dispensed. This is particularly important for formula dispensing, where the dispensing amount depends on the liquid in the user’s container to define the appropriate volume of powder to be added, allowing the powder to dissolve properly. Furthermore, the dispensing amount depends even more on the user’s (or infant’s) age to ensure that the prepared liquid formula contains sufficient nutrients required for the user’s age, depending on the type of flowable solids to be consumed; nutritional deficiencies can lead to decreased physical strength in the user.

[0067] In this respect, the control unit may be electrically connected to the drive source 531 and has an internal storage unit for storing data. The weighing unit 71 may also be electrically connected to the control unit and used to measure the weight of the flowable solid food delivered into the user's container, as described in more detail below.

[0068] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the dispensing device 1 includes a reading unit 81, which is capable of reading the data code of the flowable solid food container. Preferably, the data code includes the type of flowable solid food contained therein and instructions for measuring using a measuring device, such as the amount of flowable solid food product dispensed according to the water content in the user's container (flowable solid food / liquid ratio), and the amount of flowable solid food product dispensed according to the user's age (flowable solid food / age ratio).

[0069] The reading unit 81 is operatively connected to the control unit, which allows the type of the flowable solid food to be dispensed to be identified by extracting flowable solid food type data from the same data code, which allows for defining the flowable solid food / liquid and flowable solid food / age ratios.

[0070] By using data codes to identify the type of flowable solid food, it is possible to use multiple containers containing flowable solid foods with different ingredients or properties. That is, it is possible to identify the type of flowable solid food to be dispensed and use it to calculate the actual amount of flowable solid food to be dispensed.

[0071] According to other embodiments (not shown), a reading unit may not be provided.

[0072] It is known that, when used with flowable solid foods, particularly formula milk powder, the small size and hygroscopic nature of flowable solid foods, combined with their hygroscopic properties, cause a crust to form on some of the hydrated solid food (or milk powder) after prolonged use. This crust accumulates around the dispensing port 131 through which the flowable solid food exits from the dispensing unit 31, and also on the inner wall of the same dispensing unit 31 that guides the flowable solid food into the user container where it will mix with water. This crust accumulation is obviously undesirable because it provides favorable conditions for bacterial growth and reduces the concentration of flowable solid foods, such as formula milk powder.

[0073] It has been found that the temperature of the contents of the user's container—such as water to be mixed with a flowable solid food—affects crust formation and the properties of the flowable solid food, such as the concentration of formula milk powder. To address this issue, the dispensing device 1 further includes a temperature sensing unit 41, which is operatively connected to the control unit. Therefore, the control unit activates the dispensing unit 31 only when the sensed temperature is below or equal to a predetermined dispensing value. According to other embodiments (not shown), the temperature sensing unit 41 may also be omitted.

[0074] According to this embodiment, the temperature sensing unit 41 is arranged to detect a sensed temperature related to the temperature of the contents of the user container—such as water to be mixed with the flowable solid food to be dispensed. Considering that the flowable solid food to be dispensed is an embodiment of formula milk powder, the water in the user container should be at a temperature of approximately 45°C or lower to maintain its properties. Therefore, as an example, the predetermined dispensing value can be set to other values ​​of 45°C or lower. Similarly, the predetermined dispensing value can be set to a range with an upper limit of 45°C, for example, a range of 45°C to 35°C.

[0075] By detecting the sensing temperature of the contents of the user container, it is possible to better control the dispensing of flowable solids only when a predetermined temperature or temperature range is detected. This, in turn, allows for the dispensing of flowable solids when the contents of the user container are at the correct temperature, such as the temperature at which the properties of flowable solids dispensed during mixing are maintained, which is particularly important for formula milk powder as described above. Furthermore, by detecting the sensing temperature of the contents of the user container, flowable solids can be dispensed when the contents of the user container are at a temperature that prevents steam or moisture from entering the dispensing unit, thereby avoiding the accumulation of crusts.

[0076] As shown, the temperature sensing unit 41 is arranged at the same height as the dispensing port 131, particularly beside it, and thus aligned with the user container. However, different arrangements can be used to sense the temperature at one or different parts. In this respect, according to other embodiments not shown, the same temperature sensing unit or another temperature sensing unit can be used to detect the sensed temperature related to the temperature at the dispensing port or the user container.

[0077] When the sensed temperature is related to the contents of the user container, the same function already described can be achieved by detecting the sensed temperature at the dispensing port or the user container.

[0078] Preferably, the temperature sensing unit 41 shown in the figure includes an infrared temperature sensor, which allows for reliable detection of the sensed temperature without physical contact.

[0079] To better manage any vapor emanating from the user container, in this embodiment, the dispensing port 131 is movable relative to the support tray 21, whereas in other embodiments (not shown), the dispensing port may be fixed. Specifically, the dispensing port 131 can be in a closed position (in... Figure 2 (As better shown in the cross-sectional view) the dispensing port 131 moves between or oppositely to the open position, where dispensing of the flowable solid food is prevented in the closed position and allowed in the open position. The open or closed position of the dispensing port 131 is managed by a control unit, which initiates movement of the dispensing port 131 to the open position only when the sensed temperature is below the aforementioned predetermined dispensing value (or within the predetermined dispensing range). In particular, the drive source 531 may also include a drive device for positioning the dispensing port 131, such as another electric motor connected to a linear gear, which is mechanically connected to the dispensing port 131. Thus, the drive source 531 is used to rotate the pinion of the gear about an axis, which in turn operates the rack of the gear to move the dispensing port 131 backward by one-quarter (in the linear direction).

[0080] Closing the dispensing port 131 can directly prevent steam or moisture from entering the dispensing unit 31. In particular, the dispensing port 131 can be in different positions relative to the fixed support tray 21, so that when in the closed position, the dispensing port 131 moves away from the vertical virtual line A, which corresponds to the virtual position of the nozzle or orifice of the user container.

[0081] Therefore, the dispensing port 131 is typically kept in the closed position to prevent any steam or moisture from entering the dispensing unit 31. In this embodiment, the closure of the dispensing port 131 is further defined by a bulkhead 231 disposed inside the dispensing unit 31, between the dispensing port 131 and the metering screw 331'. Thus, when the dispensing port 131 is in the closed position, the bulkhead 231 defines a barrier, while when the dispensing port 131 is in the open position, it allows for defining an inlet and outlet at the end of the metering screw 331'.

[0082] Furthermore, to better manage any vapor exiting the user's container, in this embodiment, the dispensing device 1 further includes one or more fan units 51, 61, which are operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to dispose of air and / or vapor at the dispensing port 131. In other embodiments (not shown), however, fan units may not be provided. Specifically, in a preferred embodiment, the dispensing device has two fan units 51, 61, one fan unit 51 (first fan unit) arranged at the dispensing port 131 to dispose of air and / or vapor by blowing air into the dispensing port 131, and the other fan unit 61 (second fan unit) arranged at a distance from the dispensing port 131 to similarly dispose of air and / or vapor by blowing air into the dispensing port 131.

[0083] Therefore, the first fan unit 51 allows any steam or moisture to be deflected to avoid contact with the dispensing port 131, whether it is open or closed. The second fan unit 61 allows any steam or moisture to be deflected by altering the air path, thereby avoiding contact with the dispensing port 131, whether it is open or closed. This can be achieved by positioning the fan unit 61 only to draw air from the dispensing port 131, or by creating an air passage through which the fan unit 61 can blow air. It must be noted that the fan units 51 and 61 are deactivated by the control unit during dispensing to prevent the fan units 51 and 61 from blowing the dispensed solid, flowable food.

[0084] In this respect, the distribution device 1 also includes an air passage 161 having an outlet end 161' for air and / or steam arranged above the distribution port 131, and an inlet end 161' defined by the (second) fan unit 61 also arranged above the distribution port 131. This arrangement allows air to be drawn from the distribution port 131 away from the user container, as indicated by arrow "C". The air passage 161 can also be closed or reduced when the distribution port 131 is in the distribution position and therefore when the fan units 51, 61 do not need to be activated.

[0085] According to another embodiment not shown, the distribution device may be equipped with only one of the two fan units, or arranged in different locations, or may be equipped with more than two fan units. Furthermore, the inlet for air and / or steam may be located at the distribution port.

[0086] In any case, the control unit only activates the fan units 51 and 61 when the sensed temperature—that is, the temperature detected by the same temperature sensing unit 41—is higher than a predetermined allocation value. Air displacement allows hot air and / or steam to be replaced from the distribution port 131.

[0087] The same fan units 61 and 71 can also be used to cool the temperature of the distribution port 131 or the contents of the user container.

[0088] Finally, in this preferred embodiment, the dispensing device 1 also includes a user interface, in Figure 1 The number 91 is used to represent this. This user interface may include a user dial or touchscreen to allow the user to select from multiple options and / or on-screen to display the actual status of the dispensing device 1 to the user and to assist the user while manipulating the user dial. The user interface may also be ( wholly or partially) replaced by or integrated with external devices, such as the user's personal electronic device in the form of a smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet.

[0089] The information provided by the user interface 91 via a screen or the user's personal electronic device may include meter readings, temperature indications of the contents of the user's container, or simple notifications that the contents are too hot to dispense, and cleaning suggestions. The user can interact with the user interface 91 to select from multiple options or set appropriate specifications for personalized dispensing of the user's container or flowable solid food.

[0090] According to another embodiment (not shown), the reservoir is capable of storing flowable solid foods, thereby directly defining the container for flowable solid foods. In this respect, the reservoir's holding space can store flowable solid foods, such as formula milk powder, without the need for other containers or primary packaging.

[0091] The metered supply of flowable solid foods will remain unchanged, while data codes related to the flowable solid foods to be used can be retrieved.

[0092] Therefore, the dispensing device 1 can dispense flowable solid foods, especially formula milk powder, in an accurate manner while maintaining high preservation standards.

[0093] Prior to the dispensing stage, the dispensing device 1 can preferably be configured according to the required user information and the user container associated with each user profile. Therefore, the dispensing device 1 should require setting the name and age of each user (such as each infant to be fed the dispensed liquid solid food) to define each user profile. The data import of the user profile can be achieved through the user interface 91 of the dispensing device 1 as described above.

[0094] The control unit is capable of storing information for multiple users. In this regard, the process of adding user information can follow these steps: the allocation device 1 (i.e., via the control unit) can prompt the user to enter the name of the user information, and the user can manually enter the name (i.e., via the user interface 91); the allocation device 1 can prompt the user to enter the age from the same user information, and the user can manually enter the age.

[0095] The control unit is also capable of storing data for multiple user containers for each user profile. In this regard, the process of adding user container data follows these steps: the dispensing device 1 (i.e., via the control unit) may request the user to weigh the user container to be associated with the user profile; the user may manually place an empty user container on the support tray 21 below the dispensing port 131 (preferably located in the recessed area of ​​the support surface 121); the dispensing device 1 may weigh the user container to detect and store its tare weight (thanks to the connection between the weighing unit 71 and the control unit); the dispensing device 1 may request the user to enter the name of the user container; the user may manually enter the name (i.e., via the user interface 91); the dispensing device 1 (via the control unit) may store the newly created user container data and associate it with previously created user profiles. The dispensing device 1 may also request the user to provide more user containers to store multiple user containers and associate them with the same user profile, thus allowing the same operation described for the first user container data to be repeated multiple times as needed.

[0096] You can store more user profiles by repeating the same steps described above for setting up the first user profile.

[0097] In practical use of the dispensing device 1 according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a user container, such as a bottle or cup, can first be placed on the support tray 21 below the dispensing port 131, preferably in the recessed area of ​​the support surface 121 (if any). By positioning it on the support tray 21, it is possible to simultaneously place the user container on the weighing unit 71 to detect its weight.

[0098] The dispensing device 1 can prompt the user to select a user profile from stored user profiles and to select a user container to be filled with a flowable solid food from a plurality of stored user container profiles. The positioning of the user container can be performed before or after the selection of the relevant user profile and user container profile.

[0099] At this time, the dispensing device 1 checks the actual weight of the user container via the weighing unit 71 and the control unit. The control unit then calculates the actual amount of flowable solid food to be dispensed into the user container based on the age in the selected predetermined user data, the tare weight in the selected predetermined user container data, the actual weight of the user container, and the ratios of flowable solid food / liquid and flowable solid food / age.

[0100] The temperature sensing unit 41 also begins to detect a sensed temperature related to the temperature of the contents of the user container, such as water to be mixed with the flowable solid food to be dispensed. This activity can be initiated once the presence of the user container is detected above the support tray 21 or after the amount of flowable solid food to be dispensed has been calculated. Considering that the flowable solid food to be dispensed is an embodiment of formula milk powder, the water in the user container should be at a temperature of approximately 45°C or below to maintain its properties. Therefore, as an example, a predetermined dispensing value can be set to 45°C or other lower values. In the same way, a predetermined dispensing value can be set to a range with 45°C as the upper limit, such as a range of 45°C to 35°C.

[0101] If necessary, fan units 51 and 61 can also be activated to remove any steam around the distribution port 131, as already described.

[0102] Once the predetermined distribution value is reached, the control unit activates the distribution unit 31 to distribute the actual amount of flowable solid food into the user container, and stops the distribution unit 31 when the weight of the user container equals the sum of the actual weight and the actual amount.

[0103] Subsequently, the control unit activates drive source 531, which rotates metering screw 331', which in turn rotates dispensing wheel 431', allowing flowable solid food from reservoir 11 to pass through funnel-shaped neck 431 and then move toward dispensing port 131 in conveying passage 331. Conveying passage 331, normally in the closed position, moves to the open position under the control of the control unit, as described above, thereby allowing dispensing of flowable solid food.

[0104] At this point, the weighing unit 71 immediately generates measured weight data and transmits it to the control unit, which compares the measured weight data with preset weight data. If the comparison shows that the measured weight data is different from the preset weight data, the drive source 531 will continue to drive the metering screw 331' to rotate and move the flowable solid food towards the dispensing port 131. On the other hand, if the measured weight data is the same as the preset weight data, the control unit will command the drive source 531 to stop operating, so that the flowable solid food no longer moves towards the dispensing port 131 and falls into the user's container.

[0105] At this time, the dispensing device 1 can check the amount of remaining flowable solid food in the can or storage container 11 using the control unit, and / or can store the remaining amount together with the actual dispensing amount. Historical dispensing data for a single can of flowable solid food helps determine the amount of remaining flowable solid food, and helps to further control the correct amount to be dispensed in subsequent operations. This data, i.e., the amount of remaining flowable solid food, can be communicated to the user through the user interface 91.

[0106] Users can request other semi-manual or manual operations through user interface 91 (not described in further detail).

[0107] Although the present invention has been described with reference to the above embodiments, it should be understood that the claimed present invention is not limited in any way to the embodiments shown therein.

[0108] On the other hand, this invention also relates to a dispensing system (not fully shown) for flowable solid foods. This dispensing system includes a dispensing device for flowable solid foods according to this invention, such as dispensing device 1 of the preferred embodiment shown, and multiple containers containing flowable solid foods of different ingredients or properties. The aforementioned dispensing system allows the use of multiple containers containing flowable solid foods of different ingredients or properties while maintaining accurate metering and high preservation standards.

[0109] In a preferred embodiment, each container of the dispensing system has a data code that includes the type of flowable solid food contained therein and instructions for metering using a metering device, such as the amount of flowable solid food product dispensed based on the water content in the user's container (flowable solid food / water ratio). Therefore, the dispensing device of the dispensing system includes a reading unit capable of reading the data code of the flowable solid food container, as described above with respect to the preferred embodiment.

[0110] Various modifications and alterations can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims. Furthermore, if known equivalents of a particular feature exist, these equivalents are also incorporated herein as if specifically mentioned herein.

[0111] The terms “including” and “contains” as used in this specification should not be interpreted in an exclusive or exhaustive sense. In other words, they are intended to mean “including but not limited to”.

[0112] List of reference numerals :

[0113] 1. Dispensing device

[0114] 11. Storage

[0115] 111 Capacity

[0116] 21 Supporting tray

[0117] 121 Support Surface

[0118] 31 Distribution Unit

[0119] 131 Distribution Port

[0120] 231 partition

[0121] 331 Delivery Path

[0122] 331' Distribution Screw

[0123] 431 Funnel-shaped neck

[0124] 431' Distribution Wheel

[0125] 531 Driver Source

[0126] 41 temperature sensing units

[0127] 51, 61 fan units

[0128] 161 air passage

[0129] 161' Export End

[0130] 161” Import End

[0131] 71 Weighing Unit

[0132] 81 Reading Unit

[0133] 91 User Interface

Claims

1. A dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food, characterized in that, The dispensing device (1) includes: - A storage container (11) capable of storing the flowable solid food or supporting a container filled with the flowable solid food; - Support tray for user containers (21); - Dispensing unit (31), which is operatively connected to the reservoir (11) and has a dispensing port (131) for dispensing the flowable solid food into the user container; - Control unit, operatively connected to the dispensing unit (31), to control the dispensing and portioning of the flowable solid food into the user container; The dispensing device (1) further includes a weighing unit (71) operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to measure the weight of the user container containing liquid at the support tray (21). The control unit is configured to store data of multiple users by associating them with corresponding ages to define predetermined user data, and to store data of multiple user containers by associating them with corresponding tare weights to define predetermined user container data. The control unit is configured to activate the dispensing unit (31) to dispense the required amount of the flowable solid food into the user container, and to stop the dispensing unit (31) when the weight of the user container is equal to the sum of the actual weight of the user container and the required amount, wherein the required amount is calculated based on the age in one of the predetermined user data associated with a user, the tare weight in one of the predetermined user container data associated with a user container, the actual weight of the user container, and the ratio of flowable solid food to liquid and the ratio of flowable solid food to age.

2. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dispensing device (1) further includes a reading unit (81) capable of reading the data code of the container of the flowable solid food. The reading unit (81) is operatively connected to the control unit, and The control unit is configured to identify the type of the flowable solid food to be dispensed by extracting the type data of the flowable solid food from the data code, wherein the data code can define the ratio of flowable solid food to liquid and the ratio of flowable solid food to age.

3. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The dispensing device (1) further includes a temperature sensing unit (41) operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to detect a sensed temperature relating to the temperature at the dispensing port (131), the temperature of the user container, or the temperature of the contents of the user container. The control unit activates the allocation unit (31) only when the sensed temperature is lower than or equal to a predetermined allocation value.

4. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 3, characterized in that, The temperature sensing unit (41) includes an infrared temperature sensor.

5. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 3, characterized in that, The dispensing port (131) is movable relative to the support tray (21) from a closed position to an open position or from an open position to a closed position, wherein in the closed position, dispensing of the flowable solid food is prevented, and in the open position, dispensing of the flowable solid food is permitted. The control unit activates the distribution port (131) to move to the open position only when the sensed temperature is lower than the predetermined allocation value.

6. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 3, characterized in that, The distribution device (1) further includes one or more fan units operatively connected to the control unit and arranged to displace air and / or steam at the distribution port (131), and Specifically, the control unit activates the fan unit only when the sensed temperature is higher than the predetermined allocated value.

7. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 6, characterized in that, The distribution device (1) includes two fan units, wherein a first fan unit (51) is arranged at the distribution port (131) to displace air and / or steam by blowing air into the distribution port (131).

8. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second fan unit (61) is arranged at a distance from the distribution port (131) to displace air and / or steam by blowing air into the distribution port (131).

9. The dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to claim 8, characterized in that, The dispensing device (1) further includes an air passage (161) having an outlet end (161') for the air and / or steam, the outlet end (161') being disposed at or above the dispensing port (131), and The second fan unit (61) is arranged above the distribution port (131), thereby defining the inlet end (161”) of the air passage (161).

10. A dispensing system for flowable solid food, characterized in that, The dispensing system includes a dispensing device (1) for flowable solid food according to any one of claims 1 to 9, and a plurality of containers containing flowable solid food with different ingredients or properties.

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