Handheld electronic measuring device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a handheld electronic measurement container, the handheld electronic measurement device comprising: a container having a measurement system configured to measure a parameter of a content of the container; and a user interface configured to output a result from the measurement system.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority under 35 USC § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 313,282, filed February 24, 2022, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND

[0004] The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to an electronic measuring container and, more particularly, but not exclusively, it can transmit and / or receive information to and / or from a user and / or a network system.

[0005] In the food industry, the weight of ingredients and portions is a key factor in the cost of products. For example, to produce a food product with the same flavor and texture, it is necessary to know the exact weight or volume of the ingredients used. In addition, customers who purchase herbs, spices, dry ingredients, wet ingredients, meats, fish, poultry, and other agricultural products are typically charged by weight or volume. In addition, deli counters, fresh food markets, and many restaurants charge customers by weight or volume. Many other industries also require accurate measurement of various parameters of raw materials or products. However, measuring by quantity, mass, and / or volume is often time-consuming and can be costly due to inaccuracy. In addition, scales and other measuring devices are often difficult to transport and can require careful handling to ensure their accuracy.

[0006] For example, measuring can require a user to review an order report and / or other document that can show the desired measurement, and then the user can need to fill an electronic container and / or place the electronic container on a scale and / or then add or subtract items from the electronic container until the desired quantity is reached, and then the user can need to report the quantity in the electronic container to a cashier.

[0007] For example, a restaurant can have a system where customers can order food and / or beverages at a table and / or a counter. The restaurant can then send an order report to the kitchen for ordering. The chef can then read the order and use various containers and / or scales to measure the correct quantity of food to provide to the customer.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a fast, easy-to-use, portable device to measure material parameters, such as the quantity, mass, or volume of food and / or food products.

[0009] U.S. Published Patent Application No. 20090133940 appears to disclose “a weighing apparatus has a head for holding food and is mounted on a support at a pivot point. The pivot point provides mechanical balance and helps achieve a robust and cleanable design”.

[0010] US Patent No. US6236001 seems to disclose "a spoon with a handle connected by a neck. The neck has a built-in strain gauge that supports the spoon and measures the weight of the spoon. An analog-to-digital converter converts the strain gauge output to a digital signal that displays the weight in readings (metric or customary) on a faceplate of the handle. Control switches built into the handle or faceplate control the functions of the spoon, while indicator lights / signals indicate the status. A liquid level indicator is provided with a ball bearing that rests freely on a conductive base plate that forms a spherical sector at a predetermined angle, and has a cylindrical side wall with a conductive element therein. When the ball bearing contacts the side wall conductive element, it closes the circuit, thereby turning off the level indicator / light, which indicates that the spoon is level. The operator can see the position of the ball bearing, and can correct for the tilt. The predetermined angle is set between 8 and 12 degrees, so that a tilt of greater than 4 or 6 degrees can be indicated intuitively".

[0011] International Published Patent Application No. 02020230139 seems to disclose "an apparatus comprising a force and direction measuring sensor and a computing module. The computing module comprises a processing unit, a memory and code for calculating the exact weight of the contents of a tableware when held or rested at any angle and direction on any surface".

[0012] US Published Patent Application No. US20070028453 seems to disclose "a portion control, food serving system comprising a series of two or more interchangeable tableware portions configured to receive a quantity of food, a handle portion detachably and operatively connected to one of the tableware portions, the tableware portions incorporating a display device and a data input system, and electronics for operating the data input system and the display device. The data input system is operable to receive nutritional data relating to the food, including a standard portion size of the food. The electronics are operable to weigh the quantity of food received on one of the tableware portions and to visually display on the display device a proportion of the quantity of food relative to the standard portion size of the food".

[0013] German Published Patent Application No. DE102005062980A1 seems to disclose "the device has a handle (23), a spoon body (11) and a weight sensor (12), wherein the handle is designed for holding by a user's hand, and the weight sensor is located in the force path between the spoon body and the handle. It has a level sensor (7) for measuring the alignment of the spoon body relative to a horizontal plane.".

[0014] U.S. Patent No. 8127605 appears to disclose "A portable measuring container with a detachably connected digital measuring device. The digital measuring device comprises one or more load cells, one or more processors, an input unit and an output unit. Preferably, the input unit is one or more finger-actuable switches and the output unit is a visual display, such as an LCD. The processor is connected to the input, output, load cells and power supply, thereby making a convenient, portable and easy to use product."

[0015] U.S. Published Patent Application No. 20070034421 appears to disclose "A weighing spoon comprises a spoon body, a frame body and a level, wherein the spoon body is connected with a load cell arranged in the frame body through a spoon handle, the level is installed in the frame body and is attached with a hanging ring. A liquid crystal display screen is arranged in the frame body. The load cell is connected with the liquid crystal display screen through an A / D converter on a circuit board and a circuit of a microprocessor. The frame body is a shell composed of a panel, a button, an upper shell, a lower shell and a battery cover. A rubber button, a circuit board and a battery are arranged in the frame body. A sealing ring is arranged between the battery cover and the lower shell to improve the waterproof performance. The weight indicated by the load cell is displayed on the liquid crystal display screen when needed, and the level is used to control the data read by the spoon body in a horizontal state to be most accurate. The spoon has a reasonable structure, and a user can accurately control the amount of required articles, and the spoon body can be conveniently placed through the arranged hanging ring."

[0016] U.S. Patent No. 6573462 appears to disclose "A spoon has a handle and a load receiving container connected by a neck. The neck has a load cell and a strain gauge built in to support the load receiving container for measuring the weight in the spoon. An analog to digital converter converts the strain gauge output to a digital signal to display the weight in readout form. Control switches built in to the handle or faceplate control the functions of the scoop while indicator lights / signals indicate the status. Either a tilt meter is provided to correct for tilted weight or a visible ball bearing switch is provided to cut off the display at a predetermined tilt angle. A flexible mount for the load cell provides impact load protection and also provides overload protection when a predetermined load is applied. A stop rod or load stop built in to the load cell also provides overload protection."

[0017] U.S. Patent No. 412049 appears to disclose "An automatic weighing spoon which is accurate in action, has few parts, and the position of the indicator dial is easily observed by the attendant." SUMMARY

[0018] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present application there is provided a hand-held electronic measuring device comprising: a container having a measuring system configured to measure a parameter of a content of the container; and a user interface configured to output a result from the measuring system.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the application, the parameter of the content is a mass.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the application, the parameter of the content comprises at least one of a volume, a length and a number.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device further comprises a network connection.

[0022] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device is configured to interconnect with a cash register via the network connection.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device is configured to determine a number to be measured received via the network connection and to indicate via the user interface when the container contains the number.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device is configured to transmit a measured number to the cash register.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the application, the network connection comprises at least one of a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device further comprises a handle.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the application, the user interface is located on the handle.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device further comprises a printer.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device further comprises a scanner.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device further comprises at least one sensor.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the application, the at least one sensor is a multi-load sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope or a combination thereof.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device further comprises a processor configured to adjust a measured number to account for a condition measured with the at least one sensor.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the application, the condition comprises at least one of an acceleration of the handheld electronic measuring device and an angle of the handheld electronic measuring device.

[0034] According to some embodiments of the application, the user interface comprises a visual system, an audio system, a vibration system or a combination thereof.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the application, the container is configured to have a plurality of shapes and a plurality of sizes.

[0036] According to some embodiments of the application, the container is configured to be interchangeable between the plurality of shapes and the plurality of sizes of the container.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device further comprises a detachable insert for the container.

[0038] According to some embodiments of the application, the handheld electronic measuring device is portable.

[0039] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the application, there is provided a method for measuring a content of a container, the method comprising: placing a quantity of a product to be measured into an electronic container; determining a parameter of a content of the electronic container; reporting the parameter to a user.

[0040] According to some embodiments of the application, the parameter of the content is a mass.

[0041] According to some embodiments of the application, the parameter of the content comprises at least one of a volume, a length and a quantity.

[0042] According to some embodiments of the application, the measuring is for obtaining a predetermined quantity or a required quantity.

[0043] According to some embodiments of the application, the method further comprises: sending the predetermined quantity or the required quantity to the electronic container.

[0044] According to some embodiments of the application, the sending is via a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth connection or both.

[0045] According to some embodiments of the application, the sending is via scanning a barcode, a QR code, an RFID.

[0046] According to some embodiments of the application, the reporting is via a visual system, an audio system, a vibration system or a combination thereof.

[0047] According to some embodiments of the application, the reporting is via printing a receipt.

[0048] According to some embodiments of the application, the reporting is to a billing device.

[0049] According to some embodiments of the application, the reporting is by a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth connection or both.

[0050] According to some embodiments of the application, the method is for large, small or medium objects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0051] Some embodiments of the application are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the application. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the application can be practiced.

[0052] In the drawings:

[0053] Figures 1A-1D is a schematic illustration showing an embodiment of the application.

[0054] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration showing an embodiment of the application.

[0055] Figure 3 is a schematic illustration showing an embodiment of the application.

[0056] Figure 4 is a schematic illustration showing any embodiment of the application.

[0057] Figures 5A-5C is a schematic illustration showing any embodiment of the application.

[0058] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the application.

[0059] Figure 7 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the application.

[0060] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the application.

[0061] Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an embodiment of the application.

[0062] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a weighing shovel according to an embodiment of the application.

[0063] Figure 11 is a flowchart of a weighing method according to an embodiment of the application.

[0064] Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of the present application.

[0065] Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of the present application.

[0066] Figure 14 is a block diagram of a position sensing mechanism according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0067] Figure 15A and Figure 15B is a perspective view of a weighing scoop from above and below according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] The present application, in some embodiments thereof, relates to an electronic measuring container (e.g., a tray, a scoop, a spoon, a tablespoon, etc.) and, more particularly, but not exclusively, it can transmit and / or receive information to and / or from a user and / or a network system (e.g., how much weight to measure, how much has been weighed, when a desired weight has been reached, etc.).

[0069] SUMMARY

[0070] An aspect of some embodiments of the present application relates to an electronic measuring container and, more particularly, but not exclusively, it can measure weight, volume, etc. According to some embodiments, the electronic measuring container can transmit and / or receive information to and / or from a user and / or a network system.

[0071] According to some embodiments, various items and / or goods can be sold and / or arranged according to a desired weight and / or a desired volume and / or other desired dimensional measurements. Optionally, a user can use an electronic container and / or a handheld device and / or a measuring device to identify when a desired weight and / or volume can be reached. Optionally, various measures can need to be taken to properly measure various items and / or goods and / or items.

[0072] According to some embodiments, the present application is a system that can improve the efficiency of handling and / or measuring and / or delivering goods and / or products. An embodiment of the present application can include an electronic container that can be portable and / or can be used to measure products and / or goods. For example, the electronic container can be configured to measure mass and / or volume and / or quantity and / or length and / or other measurements.

[0073] Additionally or alternatively, according to some embodiments, the electronic container can include a system for communicating with a user, such as a screen and / or lights and / or sounds. For example, the electronic container can communicate various details about the contents of the electronic container to the user, such as the volume and / or weight of the contents, etc. Optionally, the electronic container can include a user interface, such as one or more buttons, a touch screen, etc. Optionally, the user can input data into the electronic container, such as the desired quantity of a product, item, or article, the unit cost of the product, item, or article, etc. Optionally, the electronic container can be preprogrammed, such as with the unit cost of a product, item, and / or article, etc. Optionally, the electronic container can be programmed to convert one form of measurement to another, such as converting the weight of a known liquid to its corresponding volume, etc. Optionally, the user can be a skilled worker, such as a chef, kitchen staff, store clerk, lab worker, pharmacy dispenser, etc., and / or the user can be a non-skilled worker, such as a shopper, etc. Optionally, such an electronic container can make the measurement of items and / or food and / or products and / or production more efficient and / or faster.

[0074] Additionally or alternatively, an embodiment can include a system in which the electronic container can be connected to a network (such as a local network and / or an internet network) and / or can receive and / or transmit information to various other parts of a network. For example, an embodiment can be designed for a restaurant in which food orders can be sent (such as through Wi-Fi) from a cash register and / or ordering station to the electronic containers being used by the kitchen staff and / or the electronic containers can assist the kitchen staff in measuring the required quantities (such as by signaling to them what to measure / add / subtract, how much to measure / add / subtract, and / or when they have reached the correct measurement) and / or the electronic containers can send a report to the cash register and / or server that the food is ready and / or the actual weight of the food, which can then be charged accordingly.

[0075] According to some embodiments, the electronic container can have various sizes and / or shapes. For example, the electronic container can be large (e.g., for measuring bulk food items, such as dry ingredients, food portions, fresh produce, etc.) and / or small (e.g., for measuring spices and / or pharmaceuticals, etc.). Optionally, the system can be used for large and / or small and / or medium sized objects (e.g., bulk food items, restaurant portions, spices, pharmaceuticals, etc.). Optionally, the electronic container can be spoon shaped (e.g., for dry ingredients, spices, candy, sausage, etc.), and / or tray shaped (e.g., for liquids, meat, fish, poultry portions, vegetables, etc.), and / or cup shaped (e.g., for liquids, dry ingredients, etc.), and / or other shapes. Optionally, the electronic container can be configured to allow reversible attachment and / or detachment of containers of various shapes, e.g., depending on the item, goods, product, and / or produce being measured. Optionally, the electronic container can be configured to interchangeably attach and / or detach various containers of various shapes and / or various sizes. Optionally, the electronic container can be portable. Optionally, the electronic container can be handheld. Optionally, the electronic container can have a handle.

[0076] According to some embodiments, the electronic container can include a plurality of load sensors, accelerometers, and / or gyroscopes. Optionally, these sensors can be coupled to a processor, e.g., to allow for movement of the electronic container and / or changes in position of the object being weighed and / or the angle of the electronic container relative to gravity, in order to make accurate measurements in various situations.

[0077] In some embodiments, the electronic container can be designed for use in the food industry. In the food sales industry (restaurants and / or fast food and / or grocery, etc.), there can be a variety of food items. Many food items are sold by weight, and / or there can be various sales standards for food items that can be estimated.

[0078] An example of a food that is sometimes sold by estimate can be a burger. Assistance in measuring food quantities and / or quick measurements can be needed without additional actions on the production / preparation line, such as placing the food on a scale and checking the weight and / or adding and / or removing food to reach a desired quantity. Many business owners that sell food and / or users that buy and / or handle and / or prepare food can want to track the weight of the food they handle (which can also be a need for handling non-food materials). For example, restaurants and / or especially burger restaurants can want to increase service speed as much as possible. Specifically, but not limited to, burger restaurants can have difficulty tracking the portion size of each food, and therefore can have challenges in planning quantities for a period of time. Furthermore, lack of and / or difficulty in providing standard quantities can affect profit maximization and business growth. For example, employees can provide too much and / or too little portion size to customers. Furthermore, during the preparation process, there can be customers that request more portion size of food and / or burgers, and business owners can not have a pricing system and / or pricing method. It can not be worth it for a handler of burgers (and / or other food and / or materials) to place a scale to decide on the right amount of meat in order to satisfy customers and / or to get the desired profit for the seller and / or to increase efficiency and / or speed.

[0079] Some embodiments of the present invention can be bowls and / or containers that can also have a weighing function. The weighing function can optionally be performed simultaneously with the handling of the material. For example, a scale can display the weight of the contents of the spoon / container so that the user can just look and know how much food there is. Some embodiments can be designed to assist in the handling of specific food. For example, a device for burgers (e.g., at a fast food stand, they cut a piece of meat from a large piece of meat and then hand the piece of meat to the customer) and / or other food can be developed. Optionally, the device can contain a lever mechanism that can detect a change in weight when you place the contents into it. Optionally, the device can have a digital monitor and / or a battery housing. According to some embodiments, the method can be used for large and / or small and / or medium objects (e.g., bulk food, restaurant portions, spices, medicine, etc.). Optionally, the method can include using electronic containers (e.g., spoons, trays, etc.) for weighing.

[0080] In some embodiments, an electronic container can include a pot with a weighing system and / or a spoon and / or a ladle. Optionally, the scale can be electronic and / or mechanical. The scale can detect the weight of the contents of the container / spoon, etc. For example, one embodiment can be a container that can be filled and / or located on another container. The bottom and / or sides of the outer container can have a sensor that can detect the increased weight pressure due to the contents placed in the inner (or upper) container. The weight can then be displayed. Optionally, there can be an embodiment in which the container and / or the bottom of the container is held in a position lower than the device, and the device can detect how much pressure is pulled downward. In some embodiments, the container can be shaped to evenly distribute the weight even when tilted. For example, a circular container can be weighed when it is moved by gravity towards a circular holder.

[0081] In some embodiments, the container in which the contents are placed can be connected to the rest of the invention and / or optionally, the container can be detachable and / or completely unsecured. The container can be, for example, between 0 and 10 milliliters and / or between 10 milliliters and 100 milliliters and / or between 100 milliliters and 1 liter and / or between 1 liter and 5 liters and / or between 5 liters and 10 liters and / or between 10 liters and 100 liters. The scale can measure a weight of between 0 and 1 gram and / or between 1 and 100 grams and / or between 100 grams and 250 grams and / or between 250 grams and 1 kilogram and / or between 1 kilogram and 10 kilograms and / or between 10 kilograms and 100 kilograms.

[0082] In some embodiments, the container can have a data screen. Some embodiments can display the weight of the contents and / or the angle at which the container is held and / or other information and / or an indication that the weight is accurate. (For example, because the angle is appropriate and / or the device is stationary and / or because the detected weight is stable [e.g., does not change more than a tolerance for a set period of time]). Optionally, one embodiment can have various control buttons. Optionally, there can be a way to change the 0 setting on the scale. Optionally, one embodiment can have multiple containers and / or containers of various sizes that can be interchanged with the device. For example, it can be necessary to clean the containers and / or there can be a way to connect one container for a period of time and then remove it and / or then connect a replacement container for a period of time. This can help the user to clean all the containers after use. Optionally, there can be a way to set the accuracy of the scale. Optionally, there can be a way to define a custom scale. For example, instead of or in addition to giving the weight, the display can indicate whether the quantity is related to a serving and / or can indicate large serving, small serving, and / or medium serving, etc. (e.g., each serving and / or each dish can have a range of weights, etc.). The indication can be text and / or colored light and / or an area of the scale, etc.

[0083] In some embodiments, the container can have a depth of between 0 and 10 mm and / or between 10 and 50 mm and / or between 50 mm and 1 meter when the container is parallel to the ground. The container can have a width of between 0 and 10 mm and / or between 10 and 10 and 50 mm and / or between 50 and 100 mm and / or between 100 mm and 1 meter. The container can have a length of between 0 and 10 mm and / or between 10 and 100 mm and / or between 100 mm and 1 meter. Optionally, the container can have 1 wall and / or 2 and / or 3 and / or more walls.

[0084] Optionally, there can be containers for other food items (e.g., a spatula and / or a filter and / or tongs (e.g., for grilling) and / or an ice cream scoop, etc. for collecting French fries and / or other fried foods). Optionally, there can be a fork-shaped device that can be connected to and act with the scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] Before one or more embodiments of the application are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the application is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or the methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The application is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0087] According to some embodiments, the electronic measuring container can be used by various businesses and / or users, such as bakers, pharmacists, spice experts, jewelers, restaurants, market stalls, and / or any field that can require precise measurements. Advantageously, the electronic measuring container can be handheld and / or easily portable.

[0088] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present application. For example, Figures 1A-1D An electronic container and / or electronic scoop is illustrated. An embodiment of the present application can include an electronic container that can actively and / or periodically communicate detailed information and / or measurements of the contents of the container to a user. Additionally or alternatively, the electronic container can be configured to change size to obtain a desired measurement (e.g., length, volume, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the electronic container can include detachable (and / or washable) inserts (e.g., detachable scoops, spoons, trays, and / or bowls, etc.) that can optionally have various shapes and / or sizes. Optionally, the detachable inserts can aid in cleaning the container. Optionally, each insert can also communicate with a processor (e.g., a chip [e.g., RFID, storage device (e.g., built-in flash memory), special plug, visible tag (e.g., bar code and / or QR code, etc.)]). For example, the insert can report the total volume and / or weight and / or location of the center of mass to the processor.

[0089] According to some embodiments, an electronic container can include functionality to measure weight (e.g., an electronic scale and / or a mechanical scale) and / or to measure volume (e.g., a sensor and / or the electronic container can change size according to a desired volume) and / or length (e.g., a sensor and / or the electronic container can change size according to a desired length) and / or quantity (e.g., a sensor to detect the quantity of items and / or a shelf that can hold items and / or can change size to hold more or less items, etc., and / or the electronic container can indicate the number of times it has been filled and / or emptied, etc.). Optionally, a user and / or the system can select a desired measurement for the electronic container to measure. Optionally, the electronic container can be set to a fixed measurement. Optionally, the electronic container can guide a user to measure a desired measurement. Optionally, the electronic container can communicate to a user whether the quantity in the electronic container is below and / or above a desired measurement, and / or whether a desired measurement has been reached, and / or how much more and / or less is needed to reach a desired measurement.

[0090] According to some embodiments, an electronic container can communicate with a user in various ways. For example, the electronic container 102 can include a different colored light system 104, 106, 108. For example, one color 104 can indicate that the contents are below a desired quantity, and / or another color 106 can indicate more or less than a desired quantity, and / or another color can indicate close to a desired quantity, and / or another color 108 can indicate that a desired quantity has been reached. Alternatively or additionally, the electronic container can include visual indicators 110 (e.g., flashing lights, symbolic and / or textual indicators, etc.) and / or sound outputs (e.g., a sound system) and / or a vibration system and / or other systems to indicate information about the measurement and / or to communicate with a user. For example, a screen can communicate various measurement information and / or other information to a user. Optionally, the container can have various shapes and / or sizes.

[0091] According to some embodiments, an electronic container can be pre-programmed with various controls (e.g., activated by a button). For example, there can be controls for various types of products and / or portion sizes. For example, a restaurant can have various sizes of portions and / or a user can select a portion and / or the electronic container can assist in measuring a desired portion. Optionally, the electronic container can be programmed for a number of fixed portions (e.g., a defined quantity can be defined as a portion of steak, and a user can specify that the electronic container notify after a number of portions (e.g., 2 portions, 3 portions, or 4 portions) and / or the electronic container can have a pre-programmed function to add or subtract a fixed amount from a standard portion (e.g., add an extra fixed measurement and / or a percentage of the item, etc.) and / or the electronic container can have a function for a user to manually enter a desired quantity.

[0092] According to some embodiments, the electronic container can be designed for selling and / or processing food (e.g., restaurant and / or bulk goods, specialty products, pharmaceuticals, etc.) and / or for various other measured items (e.g., jewels and / or metals, etc.). Optionally, the electronic container can be portable. Optionally, the electronic container can be handheld. Optionally, the electronic container can have a handle.

[0093] In some embodiments, the container and / or the scoop can be connected and / or disconnected by a connection mechanism. This can allow for safe rinsing of the (sirloin) scoop without damaging the electronics in the handle.

[0094] In some embodiments, there can be a power on and / or off button and a button. For example, the on and / or off button can be on the handle. Optionally, there can be a button and / or multiple buttons and / or a setting to set the desired amount of meat and / or the system will alert the user (e.g., by sound) when the user reaches the amount. Optionally, the user can set and / or save the amount for one and / or multiple servings and / or he can set the device to alert him after a few servings.

[0095] For example, if a customer orders a few servings, for example 4, the weight will show the servings so the employee does not have to calculate the amount each time.

[0096] An optional embodiment can include a scoop designed for dry goods (e.g., nuts and / or spices).

[0097] Figure 2is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present application. For example, the diagram illustrates an optional aspect of an embodiment of the present application. Some embodiments can include communication between various devices in the system. For example, the cash register 202 and / or the mobile device can communicate and / or send information to the electronic container and / or can receive information from the electronic container and / or another mobile device. For example, there can be an order station (e.g., a cash register and / or a server at a table (with a mobile device and / or a communication device)) and / or a customer can send an order (e.g., from a mobile device (e.g., through a wireless connection, such as through Bluetooth and / or a local network, such as through wi-fi) and / or remotely, such as through the internet, such as through wi-fi, Bluetooth, etc.). Optionally, the order can then be sent 204 (i.e., through wi-fi and / or other means) to one of the electronic containers 206 for processing. Optionally, the electronic container can display the order to a user (e.g., a kitchen worker and / or a factory worker and / or a store worker, etc.). Optionally, the order can be displayed on a screen of the electronic container and / or communicated through one or more communication functions on the container. Optionally, the order can be displayed on a screen and / or on a mobile device near the user. For example, the order can be received and then the user (i.e., the worker who placed the order) can see the information on the screen of the electronic container and then the electronic container can guide the worker to the desired measurement. For example, a kitchen worker can receive an order (e.g., a certain size portion and / or various types of goods) and / or the order can be displayed on a screen of the worker. Optionally, the screen and / or other communication functions on the electronic container can guide the worker to the desired measurement. For example, an order can be placed at an order station and / or a cash register and then the order station can send order information (e.g., what was ordered, the amount ordered, some way of identifying the party ordering, etc.) to the user and / or can be automatically sent to the user to process the order. The electronic container can help the user efficiently measure the desired amount of various items, as the amounts can be displayed on a screen of the electronic container device. Advantageously, this can increase the work efficiency of the kitchen worker.

[0098] Figure 3is a schematic diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present application. For example, the electronic container 304 can include a scanning function. Alternatively and / or additionally, the electronic container can have a scanner 308 (e.g., an optical reader that can read barcodes, QR codes, and / or RFID). Optionally, the scanner can be connected to the processor and / or display screen 306 of the electronic container 304 and can display the desired items and / or quantities. For example, an order sheet can be printed 302 and / or hung at a location where orders are processed. The order sheet can include a barcode 312, QR code, RFID, etc. A user can scan 310 the barcode 312 using the scanner 308 on the electronic container 304, and then the electronic container 304 can display 306 and / or communicate the order to the worker. Alternatively and / or additionally, an alternative device can scan the barcode, QR code, RFID, and / or other ID and / or then send the data to the electronic container (e.g., via wi-fi, Bluetooth, etc.).

[0099] Alternatively and / or additionally, according to some embodiments, the system can geo-locate the tags. For example, a customer can place an order (e.g., from a table with a waiter and / or at a counter), and the order can tag the location of the customer (e.g., table location) and / or when the order is ready, a user can scan the order sheet to identify and / or display the location of the customer. Optionally, the scanning can be performed by the electronic container scanning function and / or a mobile device. For example, the order sheet can include a tag that the order needs to go to table 3 and / or after the order is ready, a user can scan the order sheet to identify that the order needs to go to table 3.

[0100] Alternatively and / or additionally, according to some embodiments, the tables can have electronic tags and / or can provide electronic tags to the customers that can be returned after use. Optionally, the customers can order using an electronic system, such as an ordering interface near the tables and / or entrance, etc. and / or an ordering application on the customer's phone. Optionally, the order can be sent to the kitchen workers and / or processing staff and / or the electronic container and / or the workers can process the order. Optionally, after the order is completed, the location of the customer can be displayed, and / or the order sheet can be scanned to display the location of the customer (e.g., the customer's table), and / or the customer can be reminded that their order can have been collected.

[0101] Figure 4is a schematic diagram illustrating any embodiment of the present application. For example, the figure illustrates an electronic container 406 with a printer 404 that can print stickers and / or receipts 402. Optionally, the electronic container can include a printer and / or can include a network connection to a printer. Optionally, a receipt can be reported on a processed order, for example, after an order is measured, a receipt can be printed to describe the details of the measurement and / or the cost of the final product. Optionally, the receipt can have a barcode, QR code, RFID, and / or other ID and / or receipt. Optionally, the receipt can be scanned by a cash register to pull up a bill to be paid by the customer. Alternatively and / or additionally, the electronic container can automatically (e.g., over a network, such as over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.) send a bill to a cash register for payment. For example, the system can indicate that a customer ordered food (e.g., in a line, etc.), optionally, the customer can have an identity card and / or identity card tag, such that each time the user gives the customer food, the identity card is scanned by the user’s electronic container (e.g., spoon, scoop, etc.), and the network can update the specific products received by that customer and the amount received. After the order and / or purchase is completed, a bill can be summarized for a specific customer based on the data received by the network. For example, the system can indicate that a customer ordered food (e.g., in a line, etc.), optionally, the customer’s tray can be an electronic container with an ID card and / or ID tag, such that each time the worker gives the customer food, the electronic container can scan the tag and / or tag of the food, and the network can update the specific products received by that customer and the amount received. Optionally, the electronic container can store such data until a bill can be issued to the customer. After the order and / or purchase is completed, a bill can be summarized for a specific customer.

[0102] For example, in a cafeteria, a customer can order food in a line and / or the user can scan the customer’s tray and / or can report what is ordered and / or can send the data to a network database and / or after the order is completed, the customer’s tray (or customer ID) can be scanned and a bill can be pulled out.

[0103] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating any embodiment of the present application. For example, the electronic container can have various sizes and / or various shapes Figures 5A-5C). Optionally, the electronic containers 506, 508, 510 can be scoop shaped (e.g., for dry ingredients, spices, candies, falafel, etc.), and / or tray shaped (e.g., for liquids, meats, fish, poultry portions, vegetables, etc.), and / or cup shaped (e.g., for liquids, dry ingredients, etc.), and / or scoop shaped and / or other shapes. Optionally, the electronic containers can be configured to allow containers of various shapes to be reversibly attached and / or detached, e.g., depending on the item, goods, product and / or products being measured. Optionally, the electronic containers can be converted from one shape to another. Optionally, an insert can be placed within the electronic container, e.g., to aid in cleaning, etc. Optionally, the electronic containers can be portable. Optionally, the electronic containers can be handheld. Optionally, the electronic containers can include a handle 502 with a display screen and / or user interface 504 and container 506, 508, 510.

[0104] For example, the electronic containers can be large (e.g., for measuring bulk food items, such as dry ingredients, food portions, fresh produce, etc.) and / or small (e.g., for measuring spices and / or medicine). Optionally, the system can be used for large and / or small and / or medium sized objects (e.g., bulk food items, restaurant portions, spices, medicine, etc.).

[0105] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present application. For example, a system 600 can include a network 620 and / or a payment station (e.g., a cash register 604 (which can have a scanner 602 to scan printed receipts and / or labels)) and / or a system can include an application for a mobile device 618 (which can include a scanner 616 and / or a network connection). The mobile device 618 can be used, for example, to order goods, and / or to send information to workers (working at order processing stations) and / or to billing stations. An embodiment can include an electronic container 612, which can be connected with a payment station and / or a mobile device 618. The electronic container 612 can include a printer and / or a scanner 608 and / or can use a measurement system 610 to perform various measurement functions and / or auxiliary functions. There can be systems for storefronts, and / or factories, and / or sit-down restaurants (with waiters) and / or take-out restaurants and / or cafeterias, and / or stores and / or booths that provide goods that require precise measurements.

[0106] Figure 7is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present application. For example, the system 700 can include a handle 704 with a display screen and / or a user interface 710, a measurement system 714, and a container 716, which can optionally include one or more inserts 715. Optionally, the system 700 can also include a scanner 706, a printer 702, a network connection 708, and / or a processor 712, among others. Optionally, the electronic container can include one or more sensors 750, such as load sensors, an accelerometer, and / or a gyroscope. Optionally, these sensors can be coupled to a processor, for example, to allow for the movement of the electronic container and / or the change in position of the object being weighed and / or the angle of the electronic container relative to gravity, in order to make accurate measurements in various situations.

[0107] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the present application. For example, in the method 800, a customer can place an order, for example, at their table and / or at the counter, in block 802, the order details can be automatically sent to the user and / or the smart container, in block 808. In block 810, the smart container can assist the user in quickly measuring the order. Then in block 812, the product details can be sent to the cash register for billing using the final measurement. Alternatively, as in block 814, the system can be configured to automatically bill the customer 814 (e.g., customer credit card, bank account, electronic money transfer, etc.).

[0108] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of the present application. For example, a method for measuring the contents of a container, the method 900 includes, in block 902, placing a quantity of a product to be measured into an electronic container, in block 904, determining a parameter of a content of the electronic container, wherein the parameter is its mass, volume, length, or quantity, and in block 906, reporting the parameter to a user. Optionally, the quantity can be a predetermined quantity and / or a required quantity. Optionally, the predetermined quantity and / or the required quantity can be sent to the electronic container, for example, via a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth connection, or the like. Optionally, the predetermined quantity and / or the required quantity can be sent to the electronic container by scanning a barcode, a QR code, an RFID, and / or other identifier. Optionally, the reporting can be done via a user interface (e.g., a visual system, an audio system, a vibration system, and / or any combination thereof), printing a receipt, and / or sending a report to a billing device (e.g., a cash register, or the like). Optionally, the reporting can be done via a Wi-Fi connection, a Bluetooth connection, or both.

[0109] Figure 10is an isometric view of a weigher scoop 1000 according to an embodiment of the application. Embodiments can be designed for particular types of food and / or food series and / or goods. For example, the weigher scoop 1000 can be designed for sausages. For example, the weigher scoop 1000 can include a container 1012 portion that can have the shape of a scoop and / or a flat tray with three walls 1032. Optionally, a side is connected to (e.g., permanently or reversibly) a handle 1004. Optionally, there is an open side 1034. In some embodiments, the open side 1034 is opposite the handle 1004. Alternatively or additionally, the open side can be adjacent the handle 1004. Optionally, the open side 1034 can have a concave edge, for example, to fit large pieces of meat. This can impart normal function and ease of use for users when handling meat and / or other goods. For example, the scoop 1000 is similar to those standard tools / vessels used. Optionally, the handle 1004 is a digital handle (e.g., similar to one or more described earlier herein, for example, to weigh the contents of the container 1012). Alternatively or additionally, the handle 1004 can be reversibly connected and / or replaced by a conventional handle. Optionally, the handle 1004 can be connected to a spoon of another shaped container. Optionally, the spoon and / or container can emit a click to let the user know when it is securely and / or properly connected.

[0110] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing a weighing method according to an embodiment of the application. At block 1041, a user can collect contents into a container. Then, at block 1042, the user can hold the container in a recommended position for more accurate results. At block 1043, the device can indicate whether it is ready for accurate weighing (e.g., weight is stable and / or angle is within acceptable range). Then, the device can measure the weight of the contents and display to the user. At block 1044, the user can add or remove contents as needed. Optionally, the measuring device can include an input interface to input a desired measured amount and / or the measuring device can indicate when the amount is reached.

[0111] Figure 12is a block diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of the present application. Components of embodiments of the present application can include a storage scoop / container 1212 and / or a connectable handle 1204 and / or a quick attach 1245 and / or quick disconnect attach between a container 1212 and a handle 1204. This can allow for disconnection and / or cleaning of the container 1212 and then reconnection to the container 1212 for further operation. Optionally, the handle 1204 includes a data screen 1210 and / or a control button 1211. Alternatively or additionally, the input and / or output interface can include other controls (e.g., touch screen) and / or the device can be controlled wirelessly (e.g., the input / output interface can connect to and / or control from and / or send output to a smartphone and / or a cash register). Optionally, the device includes a weighing system 1214 and / or scale. For example, the weighing system 1214 can be built into the handle 1204.

[0112] Figure 13 is a block diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of the present application. Components of embodiments of the present application can include a storage scoop / container 1312 and / or a connectable handle 1304. Optionally, the handle 1304 is permanently connected to the container 1312 and / or a quick connection that can allow for reversible connection and / or disconnection between the container 1312 and the handle 1304. Optionally, the handle 1304 includes a data output interface 1310 and / or an output interface 1311. Alternatively or additionally, the input and / or output interface can include other controls (e.g., touch screen) and / or the device can be controlled wirelessly (e.g., the input / output interface can connect to and / or control from and / or send output to a smartphone and / or a cash register). Optionally, the device includes a weighing system 1314 and / or scale. For example, the weighing system 1314 can be built into the handle 1304.

[0113] Figure 14is a block diagram of a position sensing mechanism according to an embodiment of the application. In some embodiments, there can be sensors 1450 (e.g., gyroscopes, accelerometers) that can sense how the device is being held. For example, the device can indicate that the device is being held at an appropriate angle and / or range of angles in order to receive accurate readings of the scale. For example, this can be parallel to the ground and / or at an angle. Optionally, there can be sensors that can detect the angle at which the scoop is being held and / or there can be a processor. For example, the processor 1412 can calculate the weight of the contents according to the angle and / or can display the angle of the device to the user. For example, if the scoop is held at a 45 degree angle upwards, the scale can detect a smaller force exerted on it and thus can give a reading of the contents that is lighter than it actually is. Optionally, there can be a sensor 1450 that can sense acceleration. This can help provide more accurate readings when the scoop is in motion. Optionally, there can be multiple weight sensors 1450 and / or the readings can be averaged and / or adjusted in order to make accurate measurements at different angles and / or when the object is in different positions in the device.

[0114] The components of embodiments of the application can include a handle 1404. Optionally, the handle 1404 is permanently connected to a container. Optionally, the handle 1404 includes a data output interface 1410 and / or an output interface 1411. Alternatively or additionally, the input interface 1411 and / or the output interface 1410 can include other controls (e.g., a touch screen) and / or the device can be controlled wirelessly (e.g., the input / output interface can be connected to and / or controlled from and / or send output to a smartphone and / or a cash register) and / or the processor 1412 can be remote and / or communicate wirelessly with the handle 1404. Optionally, the device includes a weighing system 1414 and / or a scale. For example, the weighing system 1414 can be built into the handle 1404.

[0115] Figure 15A and Figure 15Bis a perspective view of a weigh scoop 1500 from above and below according to an embodiment of the application. Embodiments can be designed for specific types of food and / or food lines and / or goods. For example, scoop 1500 can be designed for sausages. For example, scoop 1500 can include a container 1512 portion, which can have the shape of a scoop and / or a flat tray with three walls 1532. Optionally, one side is connected to (e.g., permanently or reversibly) handle 1504. Optionally, there is an open side 1534. In some embodiments, the open side 1534 is opposite the handle 1504. Alternatively or additionally, the open side can be adjacent to the handle 1504. Optionally, the open side 1534 can have a concave edge, for example, to fit large pieces of meat. This can impart normal function and ease of use for users when handling meat and / or other goods. For example, scoop 1500 is similar to those standard tools / vessels used.

[0116] In some embodiments, handle 1504 is a digital handle (e.g., to weigh the contents of container 1512). For example, the handle can include an output interface, such as display screen 1510 and / or level indicator 1509. Additionally or alternatively, handle 1504 can include an on / off switch 1513 and / or battery cover 1507. For example, level indicator 1509 and / or display screen 1510 can be on the top surface of handle 1504. Optionally, the handle can include a user input interface, such as including a tare button 1511 and / or on / off switch 1513.

[0117] In some embodiments, handle 1504 can be reversibly connected to the scoop. For example, a user can detach container 1512 and connect a scoop of another shape, a container of another shape. For example, handle 1504 can include an extension 1514, a sensor 1550, and / or a latch 1552. For example, extension 1514 can extend below and in front of handle 1504. Optionally, extension 1514 can serve as a platform for container 1512. For example, container 1512 can rest on sensor 1550 (e.g., a load sensor) and / or latch to extension 1514. For example, latch 1552 loosely twists onto container 1512, such that container 1512 still has limited freedom of movement in the vertical direction and / or its weight can be supported by load sensor 1550. In some embodiments, multiple (e.g., four) load sensors 1550 detect the weight distribution on container 1512. Optionally, a processor estimates the mass of the contents from the weight distribution. Optionally, the mass and / or serving size is displayed on a user output interface (e.g., viewing screen 1510 (which can also include a touchscreen)).

[0118] In some embodiments, the user cuts a portion of food (e.g., meat off a skewer). When cut, the container 1512 is held at a convenient angle (e.g., tilted upward) so that the food falls into the container 1512. When the user needs to, he tilts the container back to a prescribed weighing angle (e.g., horizontal, e.g., based on a horizontal indicator). At the prescribed angle, the weight and / or portion is displayed on the view screen 1510 and / or wirelessly transmitted to another device.

[0119] Overall

[0120] It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methods, computer user interfaces, image capture devices will be developed and the scope of the terms design element, analysis program, user device is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

[0121] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the application pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the application, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting.

[0122] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that some embodiments of the application can be embodied as a system, method, or computer program product. Accordingly, some embodiments of the application can take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that can all generally be referred to herein as a "circuit," "module" or "system." Furthermore, some embodiments of the application can take the form of a computer program product embodied in one or more computer readable medium(s) having computer readable program code embodied thereon.

[0123] Implementation of the method and / or system of some embodiments of the application can involve performing and / or completing selected tasks manually, automatically, or a combination thereof. Moreover, according to some embodiments of the application, various selected tasks can be implemented by hardware, software, firmware or a combination thereof, e.g., using an operating system.

[0124] For example, hardware for performing selected tasks according to some embodiments of the application could be implemented as a chip or a circuit. As software, selected tasks according to some embodiments of the application could be implemented as a plurality of software instructions being executed by a computer using any suitable operating system. In an exemplary embodiment of the application, one or more tasks according to some exemplary embodiments of method and / or system as described herein are performed by a data processor, such as a computing platform for executing a plurality of instructions. Optionally, the data processor includes a volatile memory for storing instructions and / or data and / or a non-volatile storage, for example, a magnetic hard disk and / or removable media, for storing instructions and / or data. Optionally, a user input device is provided, for example, a keyboard or mouse, and a display is provided for displaying various outputs to the user.

[0125] Some embodiments of the application can employ any combination of one or more computer readable media or storage media. Computer readable media or storage media can be, for example but not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer readable storage media include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium can be any tangible medium that can contain, or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0126] A computer readable signal medium can include a propagated data signal with computer readable program code embodied therein, for example, in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal can take any of a variety of forms, including, but not limited to, electro-magnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer readable signal medium can be any computer readable medium that is not a computer readable storage medium and that can communicate, propagate, or transport a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0127] Program code embodied on a computer readable medium can be transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited to wireless, wireline, optical fiber cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0128] Computer program code for carrying out operations of some embodiments of the application can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The program code can execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

[0129] Some embodiments of the application can be described below with reference to methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to an embodiment of the application. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0130] These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer- readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0131] The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0132] Data and / or program code can be accessed and / or shared over a network, such as the Internet. For example, data can be shared and / or accessed using a social network. Processors can include remote processing capabilities, such as can be obtained over a network, such as the Internet. For example, resources can be accessed through cloud computing. The term "cloud computing" refers to the use of computing resources that are remotely available, such as over a public network, such as the Internet, which can be provided at a low cost and / or on an hourly basis. Any virtual or physical computer in electronic communication with such a public network can provide computing resources. To securely provide computing resources over a cloud network, a computer accessing the cloud network can employ standard secure encryption protocols well known in the art, such as SSL and PGP.

[0133] Certain methods described herein are generally intended for use only by a computer and can not be feasible or practical for purely manual execution by a human expert. A human expert wishing to manually perform similar tasks can use a completely different approach, such as utilizing expert knowledge and / or the pattern recognition capabilities of the human brain, which would be much more efficient than manually executing the steps of the methods described herein.

[0134] The term "about" as used herein means ± 10%.

[0135] The terms "comprise," "comprises," "comprising," "include," "includes," "including," "have," "has," "having," and variants thereof, mean "including but not limited to."

[0136] The term "consisting of means "including and limited to."

[0137] The term "consisting essentially of means that the composition, method or structure can include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0138] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0139] Throughout this application, various embodiments of the application can be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and is to be interpreted -in the context of the specification as a whole. Therefore, the description of a range it should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, a description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0140] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited number (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases "between," "between," "between," and "between" a first indicated number and a second indicated number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractions and integers therebetween.

[0141] It should be appreciated that certain features of the application, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the application, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any suitable

[0142] Although the application has been described in connection with specific embodiments thereof, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous alternatives, modifications and variations can be practiced within the scope of the application as recited in the appended claims.

[0143] All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Furthermore, no admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. The citation of each reference set forth herein is not to be construed as an admission that such is applicable law, or relevant prior art, on the merits, to the patentable or non-obviousness of the application. To the extent that any section headings are used, they are for convenience only and are not to be construed as necessarily reflecting the subject matter or character of any particular embodiment.

Claims

1. A handheld electronic measuring device, characterized in that, The handheld electronic measuring device includes: A container having a measuring system configured to measure a parameter of a content of the container; and A user interface configured to output a result from the measurement system.

2. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The parameter of the contents is a mass.

3. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The parameters of the contents include at least one of volume, length and quantity.

4. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device also includes: a network connection.

5. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device is configured to interconnect with a cash register via the network connection.

6. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device is configured to determine a quantity to be measured via the network connection and to indicate the quantity via the user interface when the container contains the quantity.

7. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 5, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device is configured to transmit a measured quantity to the cash register.

8. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 4, characterized in that: The network connection includes at least one of a Wi-Fi connection and a Bluetooth connection.

9. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1 or claim 4, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device also includes: a handle.

10. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 9, characterized in that: The user interface is located on the handle.

11. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device also includes: a printer.

12. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device also includes: a scanner.

13. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device also includes at least one sensor.

14. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 13, characterized in that: The at least one sensor is a multi-load sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, or a combination thereof.

15. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 14, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device further includes a processor configured to adjust a post-measurement quantity to take into account a condition measured by the at least one sensor.

16. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 15, characterized in that: The conditions include at least one of an acceleration of the handheld electronic measuring device and an angle of the handheld electronic measuring device.

17. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The user interface includes a visual system, an audio system, a vibration system, or a combination thereof.

18. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The container is configured to have a variety of shapes and sizes.

19. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 18, characterized in that: The container is configured to be interchangeable between the various shapes and sizes of the container.

20. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device also includes a detachable insert for the container.

21. The handheld electronic measuring device as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The handheld electronic measuring device is portable.

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