Seasoning box

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of kitchen utensils, in particular to a seasoning box which comprises a box body and a box cover, the box body is provided with a seasoning groove used for containing seasoning, and the box cover is movably connected with the box body and provided with a closing position covering the box body and an opening position enabling the seasoning groove to be opened. The seasoning box further comprises a driving device, a spoon frame, an induction module and a control module. The driving device is connected with the box cover through a transmission mechanism and is used for driving the box cover to move between a closing position and an opening position; the spoon frame is arranged outside the seasoning groove and is used for placing spoons; the sensing module is used for detecting whether spoons are placed on the spoon frame; the control module receives the electric signal sent by the sensing module and controls the driving device to act according to the electric signal; when the seasoning box is used, the box cover can be automatically opened and closed, people do not need to manually open and close the box cover, and the seasoning box is more convenient to use.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The utility model relates to kitchen utensil technical field, concretely relates to a seasoning box. BACKGROUND

[0002] The seasoning box is an essential kitchen utensil in people's daily life, which is usually used to store seasoning materials such as salt, monosodium glutamate, chicken essence and sugar.

[0003] For example, the Chinese utility model patent with publication number CN201453009U discloses a new seasoning box, which comprises a rectangular box body, a box cover and a base. The upper top edge of the box body is hingedly connected with the box cover through a shaft, and the base is fixedly connected with the bottom end of the box body. The base and the box cover are hollow structures. A drawer is arranged in the hollow cavity of the base, and a pull door is arranged at the top end of the hollow cavity of the box cover. A spoon is arranged in the hollow cavity of the box cover. Two longitudinal partitions are arranged in the interior of the box body, and the partitions divide the interior of the box body into three equal cavities.

[0004] The common seasoning boxes on the market are similar to the seasoning box of the foregoing patent, which mainly comprises a box body and a box cover. When not in use, the seasoning materials and the spoon for scooping the seasoning materials are stored in the box body, and the box cover is covered on the box body to prevent dust or water from falling on the seasoning materials. When the seasoning materials need to be scooped, the user needs to manually open the box cover, then take out the spoon from the box body and scoop a certain amount of seasoning materials. After use, the spoon is put back into the box body and the box cover is manually covered.

[0005] The existing seasoning box usually includes five steps of manually opening the box cover, taking the spoon, scooping the seasoning materials, putting back the spoon and manually covering the box cover when in use, which is relatively troublesome. During actual cooking, many dishes have high requirements for the fire time. Since the operation of the existing seasoning box is relatively cumbersome, the time for scooping the seasoning materials is relatively long, and people are in a hurry during cooking. Moreover, it is easy to miss the best opportunity and cause the color and taste of the dishes to be poor.

[0006] In addition, water or oil is easy to stick to the hands during cooking. In this case, the spoon will transfer the water stains or oil stains to the handle of the seasoning spoon, so that the spoon is contaminated. After use, the contaminated spoon is directly put back into the box body, which is very unhygienic. Moreover, if the spoon with water or oil adhered is placed in the box body, the seasoning materials are easy to adhere to the spoon, so that a layer of stains is formed on the surface of the spoon. Such a spoon placed in the seasoning box will become a source of pollution. UTILITY MODEL CONTENT

[0007] One technical problem to be solved by the present application is that the existing seasoning box usually includes five steps of manually opening the box cover, taking the spoon, scooping the seasoning materials, putting back the spoon and manually covering the box cover when in use, which is relatively troublesome.

[0008] To address the shortcomings of existing technologies, this invention provides a condiment box. Users only need to take a spoon, scoop out the condiments, and put the spoon back in when using this condiment box, eliminating the need to manually open and close the lid, making it more convenient to use. Furthermore, this invention also provides a control method and a usage method for this condiment box.

[0009] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution:

[0010] This utility model provides a seasoning box, which includes a box body and a box lid. The box body is provided with a seasoning slot for holding seasonings. The box lid is movably connected to the box body and has a closed position that covers the box body and an open position that opens the seasoning slot. The seasoning box also includes a driving device, a spoon holder, a sensing module, and a control module. The driving device is connected to the box lid through a transmission mechanism and is used to drive the box lid to move between the closed position and the open position. The spoon holder is located outside the seasoning slot and is used to hold a spoon. The sensing module is used to detect whether a spoon is placed on the spoon holder. The control module receives the electrical signal emitted by the sensing module and controls the driving device to operate according to the electrical signal.

[0011] Compared with existing technologies, the seasoning box provided by this utility model features automatic opening and closing of the lid during use, eliminating the need for manual opening and closing, making it more convenient to use and reducing the time spent scooping out seasonings during cooking. Furthermore, if water or oil gets on the surface of the spoon during use, since the spoon is not placed in the seasoning container, it is less likely to accumulate seasonings or form dirt. Even if the spoon becomes contaminated, it will not further contaminate the seasonings inside the box, making it more hygienic. Attached Figure Description

[0012] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this utility model or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0013] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of Embodiment 1 of the present invention with the lid in the closed position, and a spoon is placed in the spoon holder.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of Embodiment 1 of this utility model with the lid in the open position, and no spoon is placed in the spoon holder.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the box lid in the open position and the sealing plate, pressure plate and spoon holder hidden in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0016] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A magnified view of section I in the middle.

[0017] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the box body in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0018] Figure 6 This is an exploded view of the box lid in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a structural diagram of the box lid in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0020] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view along line AA.

[0021] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the servo motor, connecting rod, first slider, and cover after assembly in Embodiment 1 of this utility model.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of Embodiment 2 of this utility model with the lid in the closed position, and a spoon is placed in the spoon holder.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the box lid in the open position according to Embodiment 2 of this utility model.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of Embodiment 3 of this utility model with the lid in the closed position, and a spoon is placed in the spoon holder.

[0025] Figure 13 This is a perspective view of the box lid in the open position in Embodiment 3 of this utility model.

[0026] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of Embodiment 3 of this utility model with the lid in the closed position. The lid and spoon are hidden in this view.

[0027] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A magnified view of section II in the middle.

[0028] Figure 16 yes Figure 14 Top view.

[0029] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A sectional view along line BB.

[0030] Figure 18This is an exploded view of the box body in Embodiment 3 of this utility model.

[0031] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of Embodiment 4 of this utility model with the lid in the closed position, and a spoon is placed in the spoon holder.

[0032] Figure 20 This is a perspective view of the box lid in the open position in Embodiment 4 of this utility model.

[0033] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 The diagram shows the lid and spoon holder hidden.

[0034] Figure 22 yes Figure 21 A magnified view of section III in the middle.

[0035] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of the box lid in the open position in Embodiment 5 of this utility model.

[0036] Figure 24 This is a perspective view of the box lid in the closed position according to Embodiment 6 of this utility model.

[0037] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the pressure sensor installed inside the spoon holder in Embodiment 7 of this utility model.

[0038] The annotations in the attached figures are explained as follows:

[0039] In the diagram: 1. Box body; 101. Bottom shell; 1011. First groove; 1012. Second groove; 1013. First partition; 1014. Second partition; 1015. First pivot block; 1016. Window; 102. Cover; 1021. Insertion hole; 1022. First rectangular hole; 103. Frame; 1031. Mounting hole; 104. Condiment cup; 105. Second slide rail; 106. Condiment trough; 2. Box lid; 201. Groove plate; 2011. Cut groove; 202. Pressure plate; 2021. Second rectangular hole; 203. Second pivot block; 204. First slide rail; 3. Spoon holder; 301. Support plate; 302. Trailing rod; 303. Slot; 4. 1. First pivot; 5. Connecting rod; 6. Driving gear; 7. Driven gear; 8. Servo motor; 9. Stepper motor; 10. Push-pull electromagnet; 11. Second pivot; 12. First slider; 13. Second slider; 14. Battery; 15. Charging module; 1501. Charging port; 16. Diffuse reflection photoelectric switch; 17. Through-beam photoelectric switch; 1701. Light emitting end; 1702. Light receiving end; 18. Pressure sensor; 19. Proximity switch; 20. Micro switch; 21. Spoon; 22. Screw; 23. Shaft hole; 24. Bracket; 100. Drive device; 200. Sensing module; 300. Control module; 400. Transmission mechanism. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The detailed description of the following embodiments and the accompanying drawings are used to illustrate the principles of this application by way of example, but should not be used to limit the scope of this application. This application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but includes all technical solutions falling within the scope of the claims.

[0041] These embodiments are provided to make the application thorough and complete, and to fully express the scope of the application to those skilled in the art. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of components and steps, material composition, numerical expressions, and values ​​illustrated in these embodiments should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limiting.

[0042] It should be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationship, are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. When the absolute position of the described object changes, the relative positional relationship may also change accordingly.

[0043] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and similar terms used in this application do not indicate any order, quantity, or importance, but are merely used to distinguish different parts. "Vertical" is not strictly vertical, but within the permissible margin of error. "Parallel" is not strictly parallel, but within the permissible margin of error. Terms such as "including" or "contains" mean that the element preceding the word encompasses the element listed after it, and do not exclude the possibility of encompassing other elements as well.

[0044] It should also be noted that, in the description of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application depending on the specific circumstances. When a specific device is described as being located between a first device and a second device, an intermediary device may or may not be present between the specific device and the first or second device.

[0045] All terms used in this application have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined. It should also be understood that terms defined in general dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the context of the relevant art, and not as idealized or highly formalized, unless expressly defined herein.

[0046] Techniques, methods, and equipment known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, they should be considered part of the specification.

[0047] See Figures 1-25 As shown, this utility model provides a seasoning box, which includes a box body 1 and a lid 2. The box body 1 is provided with a seasoning slot 106 for holding seasonings. The lid 2 is movably connected to the box body 1 and has a closed position that covers the box body 1 and an open position that opens the seasoning slot 106. Compared with traditional seasoning boxes, the seasoning box provided by this utility model also has a drive device 100, a spoon holder 3, a sensing module 200, and a control module 300. The drive device 100 is connected to the lid 2 via the transmission mechanism 400. The drive device 100 is used to drive the lid 2 to move between the closed position and the open position. In specific implementation, the drive device 100 can be any one of the following: servo motor 8, stepper motor 9, servo motor, or electromagnet. The spoon holder 3 is located outside the seasoning tank 106 and is used to place the spoon 21. The sensing module 200 is used to detect whether a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3. The sensing module 200 can be a photoelectric switch, proximity switch 19, micro switch 20, pressure sensor 18, etc. The control module 300 receives the electrical signal sent by the sensing module 200 and controls the drive device 100 to operate according to the electrical signal.

[0048] The control principle of the seasoning box provided by this utility model is as follows:

[0049] The sensing module 200 detects in real time whether a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3 and transmits the detected electrical signal to the control module 300. The control module 300 sends a control command to the drive device 100 based on the received electrical signal related to whether a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3. When no spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3, the control module 300 issues a command to control the drive device 100 to move the lid 2 to the open position. When a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3, the control module 300 issues a command to control the drive device 100 to move the lid 2 to the closed position.

[0050] The method of using the seasoning box provided by this utility model is as follows:

[0051] Under normal conditions (that is, when there is no need to scoop seasonings from the seasoning box), a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3, and the lid 2 is in the closed position;

[0052] When it is necessary to scoop out seasoning from the seasoning tank 106, first remove the spoon 21 from the spoon holder 3. The drive device 100 automatically drives the lid 2 from the closed position to the open position. At this time, the spoon 21 can be used to scoop out the seasoning from the seasoning tank 106.

[0053] After scooping out the required seasonings, place the spoon 21 back on the spoon holder 3, and the drive device 100 will automatically drive the lid 2 from the open position to the closed position.

[0054] Compared with traditional seasoning boxes, the seasoning box provided by this utility model achieves automatic opening and closing of the lid 2 during use, eliminating the need for manual opening and closing of the lid 2, making it more convenient to use and reducing the time spent scooping out seasonings during cooking. In addition, if water or oil stains stick to the surface of the spoon 21 during use, since the spoon 21 is not placed in the seasoning tray 106, the surface of the spoon 21 is less likely to stick to seasonings or form dirt. Even if the spoon 21 is contaminated, the contaminated spoon 21 will not further contaminate the seasonings inside the box 1, making it more hygienic.

[0055] Example 1

[0056] See Figures 1-9 As shown, this embodiment provides a seasoning box, including a box body 1 and a lid 2. The box body 1 is provided with three seasoning slots 106 for holding seasonings. One end of the lid 2 is pivotally connected to the box body 1 via a first pivot 4. The lid 2 has a closed position that covers the box body 1 and an open position that opens the seasoning slots 106. The drive device 100 uses an SG90 servo motor 8. The servo motor 8 is connected to the lid 2 via a transmission mechanism 400 and drives the lid 2 to move between the closed position and the open position. A spoon holder 3 is provided on the outside of the seasoning slots 106 and is used to place a spoon 21. The sensing module 200 uses a diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 to detect whether a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3. The control module 300 receives the electrical signal emitted by the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 and controls the servo motor 8 to operate according to the electrical signal.

[0057] See Figure 5As shown, the box body 1 in this embodiment includes a bottom shell 101, a frame 103, a condiment cup 104, and a cover 102. The bottom shell 101 is rectangular in shape. The upper end of the bottom shell 101 is provided with a first groove 1011 and a second groove 1012. The first groove 1011 and the second groove 1012 are separated by a first partition 1013. The first groove 1011 is used to accommodate the frame 103 and the condiment cup 104. After the cover 102 is placed on the second groove 1012, it forms an installation cavity with the bottom shell 101 for installing the drive device 100, the control module 300, and the sensing module 200. The outline of the frame 103 is adapted to the first groove 1011. The frame 103 has three square mounting holes 1031, each containing a condiment cup 104. The interior space of the condiment cup 104 forms the aforementioned condiment trough 106. The three condiment cups 104 can be used to hold different condiments, such as salt, monosodium glutamate, and sugar. The number of condiment troughs 106 in this invention is not limited to three; in some embodiments, the number of condiment troughs 106 can be one, two, or more than three. In this embodiment, both the condiment cup 104 and the frame 103 can be detached from the bottom shell 101, facilitating cleaning of the condiment cup 104.

[0058] The transmission mechanism 400 in this embodiment mainly consists of a connecting rod 5. One end of the connecting rod 5 is connected to the driving device 100. The driving device 100 is fixedly connected to the housing 1 and can drive the connecting rod 5 to swing around an axis parallel to the first pivot 4. The other end of the connecting rod 5 is slidably connected to the housing cover 2. When the driving device 100 drives the connecting rod 5 to swing, the connecting rod 5 will drive the housing cover 2 to rotate around the first pivot 4. See also Figure 2 As shown, the connecting rod 5 can be designed as an arc shape; in other embodiments, it can also be designed as a straight line. In this embodiment, the connecting rod 5 can be made of stainless steel to give it high structural strength and corrosion resistance.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, when the spoon 21 is on the spoon holder 3, the lid 2 is in the closed position. Figure 2 As shown, after the spoon 21 is removed from the spoon holder 3, the drive device 100 drives the connecting rod 5 to swing at a certain angle, causing the lid 2 to rotate from the closed position to the open position. During the process of the lid 2 rotating from the closed position to the open position, the rotation angle of the lid 2 can be 30 to 180 degrees, and the specific value can be determined according to the needs, but it must be ensured that when the lid 2 is in the open position, the user can use the spoon 21 to scoop out seasonings such as salt from the seasoning tank 106.

[0060] See Figure 3 and Figure 9As shown, the servo motor 8 is fixedly mounted on the bottom of the cover 102. After the cover 102 is fastened together with the bottom shell 101, the servo motor 8 is encapsulated in the mounting cavity. The cover 102 of the housing 1 is provided with a first rectangular hole 1022 for the connecting rod 5 to pass through. In other embodiments, the servo motor 8 can also be replaced by a stepper motor 9 or a servo motor.

[0061] See Figure 1 As shown, in this invention, the end of the lid 2 connected to the box body 1 is designated as the rear end of the lid 2, and the end of the lid 2 away from the first pivot 4 is designated as the front end of the lid 2. To achieve a sliding connection between the connecting rod 5 and the lid 2, the lid 2 is provided with a first slide rail 204 extending from the front end to the rear end. The connecting rod 5 has a first slider 12, which inserts into the first slide rail 204 and can slide within it. (See also...) Figures 6 to 8 As shown, to form the aforementioned first slide 204, the cover 2 has a groove plate 201 and a pressure plate 202. The groove plate 201 has an elongated slot 2011 perpendicular to the first pivot 4. The two ends of the pressure plate 202 are fixedly connected to the two ends of the groove plate 201 by screws 22. The pressure plate 202 has a second rectangular hole 2021 for the connecting rod 5 to pass through. After the two ends of the pressure plate 202 are fixedly connected to the two ends of the groove plate 201, the slot 2011 on the groove plate 201 forms the aforementioned first slide 204. In this embodiment, the first slider 12 is a cylinder fixedly connected to the connecting rod 5, such as a pin or stud fixed to the connecting rod 5. See also... Figure 1 As shown, when the lid 2 of this embodiment is closed on the box body 1, the connecting rod 5 is covered by the lid 2, which makes the appearance of the seasoning box more concise and beautiful.

[0062] See Figure 9 As shown, the servo motor 8 is installed between the front and rear faces of the housing 1, with the servo motor 8 closer to the rear face of the housing 1. This provides a larger space between the servo motor 8 and the front face of the housing 1 to accommodate the connecting rod 5 when the housing cover 2 is in the closed position. When the housing cover 2 is in the closed position, the connecting rod 5 is entirely located between the front face of the housing 1 and the servo motor 8. The first slide rail 204 is perpendicular to the first pivot 4 and parallel to the upper surface of the housing cover 2.

[0063] For ease of use, the condiment box provided in this embodiment also has a battery 14 installed inside the box body 1. The drive device 100, the sensing module 200, and the control module 300 are all electrically connected to the battery 14, and the battery 14 supplies power to the drive device 100, the sensing module 200, and the control module 300. With the battery 14 built into the condiment box, the condiment box does not need to be powered by cables, its placement is not limited by sockets, and it is more convenient to use. To avoid frequent replacement of the battery 14, a rechargeable battery (such as a polymer lithium battery) is preferred. Therefore, a charging module 15 electrically connected to the battery 14 is installed in the mounting cavity of the box body 1. The charging port on the charging module 15 extends from the outer wall of the box body 1. The aforementioned charging module 15 can be a commercially available lithium battery charging module.

[0064] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the spoon holder 3 is located on the outside of the box body 1 and connected to the outer wall of the box body 1. For ease of cleaning, the spoon holder 3 is preferably detachably connected to the box body 1, allowing it to be removed from the box body 1 for separate cleaning when needed. Figure 1 As shown, the spoon holder 3 is provided with a slot 303 for accommodating the spoon 21. Under normal conditions, most of the spoon 21 is inserted into the slot 303, and the end of the spoon handle of the spoon 21 is located outside the slot 303, which can prevent dust from falling on the spoon 21.

[0065] See Figure 3 As shown, the sensing module 200 in this embodiment uses a diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16. The sensing module 200 is located in the mounting cavity and fixedly connected to the housing 1. A window 1016 for light from the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 to pass through is provided on the outer wall of the housing 1. The spoon holder 3 is installed outside the window 1016. When the spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3, the light emitted by the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 is directed towards the spoon 21 and reflected by the spoon 21. After receiving the light reflected back from the spoon 21, the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 sends an electrical signal (e.g., a low-level signal) to the control module 300 indicating that the spoon 21 is on the spoon holder 3. After the spoon 21 placed on the spoon holder 3 is removed, the light emitted by the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 can no longer be reflected. The diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 sends an electrical signal (e.g., a high-level signal) to the control module 300 indicating that the spoon 21 is not on the spoon holder 3. The control module 300 controls the operation of the drive device 100 according to the electrical signal emitted by the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16.

[0066] In this embodiment, the control module 300 can be a commercially available dedicated control module 300 for servo motor 8. This dedicated control module 300 can control the servo motor 8 to rotate a certain angle based on the received high / low level signals. In other embodiments, the control module 300 can also be a circuit module mainly composed of a microcontroller and a servo motor 8 driver chip, with the microcontroller controlling the servo motor 8.

[0067] In this embodiment, by installing the drive device 100, control module 300, sensing module 200, and battery 14 inside the mounting cavity, the appearance of the condiment box can be made simpler and more aesthetically pleasing, while also reducing the risk of damage to these components.

[0068] Example 2

[0069] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the lid 2 in the open position in this embodiment, and the condiment cup 104 in the figure has been removed.

[0070] See Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 lies only in the structure of the lid 2. The main difference is that the position of the first slide 204 on the lid 2 has been adjusted. In this embodiment, the first slide 204 is set on the edge of the lid 2.

[0071] Example 3

[0072] See Figures 12 to 18 As shown, this embodiment provides a seasoning box, which includes a box body 1 and a lid 2. The box body 1 is provided with four seasoning slots 106 for holding seasonings. One end of the lid 2 is pivotally connected to the box body 1 via a first pivot 4. The lid 2 has a closed position that covers the box body 1 and an open position that opens the seasoning slots 106. The driving device 100 uses a stepper motor 9, which is connected to the lid 2 via a transmission mechanism 400 and drives the lid 2 to move between the closed and open positions. A spoon holder 3 is provided on the outside of the seasoning slots 106 and is used to place a spoon 21. The sensing module 200 uses a through-beam photoelectric switch 17 to detect whether a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3. The control module 300 receives the electrical signal emitted by the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 and controls the stepper motor 9 to operate according to the electrical signal.

[0073] See Figure 18As shown, the box body 1 in this embodiment includes a bottom shell 101 and a cover 102. The upper end of the bottom shell 101 is provided with a first groove 1011 and a second groove 1012. The first groove 1011 and the second groove 1012 are separated by a first partition 1013. The first groove 1011 is divided into four independent seasoning grooves 106 by three second partitions 1014. After the cover 102 is placed on the second groove 1012, it forms a mounting cavity with the bottom shell 101 for mounting the drive device 100, the control module 300, and the sensing module 200. See also Figure 14 As shown, the stepper motor 9 is fixedly connected to the bottom shell 101 via a bracket 24. In other embodiments, the stepper motor 9 can also be replaced by a servo motor.

[0074] See Figure 15 As shown, in order to achieve the pivot connection between the box body 1 and the box cover 2 in this embodiment, the bottom shell 101 and the box cover 2 are respectively provided with a first pivot block 1015 and a second pivot block 203. Both the first pivot block 1015 and the second pivot block 203 are provided with coaxial shaft holes 23. The first pivot 4 is simultaneously inserted into the shaft holes 23 on the first pivot block 1015 and the second pivot block 203.

[0075] In this embodiment, the transmission mechanism 400 mainly consists of a meshing drive gear 6 and a driven gear 7. A stepper motor 9 is fixedly connected to the housing 1 and drives the drive gear 6 to rotate. The driven gear 7 is fixedly connected to the lid 2 and coaxial with the first pivot 4. When the stepper motor 9 drives the drive gear 6 to rotate, the driven gear 7 will cause the lid 2 to rotate around the first pivot 4. During the process of the lid 2 rotating from the closed position to the open position, the rotation angle of the lid 2 can be 30 to 180 degrees, and the specific value can be determined according to the requirements. However, it must be ensured that when the lid 2 is in the open position, the user can use the spoon 21 to scoop salt and other seasonings from the seasoning trough 106. In other embodiments, the transmission mechanism 400 in this embodiment can also be replaced by a sprocket or pulley transmission mechanism 400.

[0076] See Figure 15 As shown, in this embodiment, the first pivot 4 is clearance-fitted with the shaft hole 23 of the first pivot block 1015 on the bottom shell 101, and the first pivot 4 can rotate within the shaft hole 23 of the first pivot block 1015. The first pivot 4 is interference-fitted with the shaft hole 23 of the second pivot block 203 on the cover 2, and the first pivot 4 cannot move relative to the second pivot block 203. The right end of the first pivot 4 extends out from the second pivot block 203 and is fixedly connected to the driven gear 7. In this way, the driven gear 7 is indirectly fixedly connected to the cover 2 through the first pivot 4.

[0077] In other embodiments, in order to achieve a fixed connection between the driven gear 7 and the cover 2, a separate connecting shaft coaxial with the first pivot 4 can be provided. One end of the connecting shaft is fixedly connected to the center of the driven gear 7, and the other end of the connecting shaft is fixedly connected to the second pivot block 203.

[0078] For ease of use, the condiment box provided in this embodiment also has a battery 14 installed inside the box body 1. The drive device 100, the sensing module 200, and the control module 300 are all electrically connected to the battery 14, and the battery 14 supplies power to the drive device 100, the sensing module 200, and the control module 300. To avoid frequent replacement of the battery 14, the battery 14 is preferably a rechargeable battery (such as a polymer lithium battery). In this case, a charging module 15 electrically connected to the battery 14 is installed in the mounting cavity of the box body 1, and the charging port 1501 on the charging module 15 extends from the outer wall of the box body 1.

[0079] In this embodiment, the outer wall of the box 1 is provided with an insertion hole 1021, and the spoon holder 3 is provided with a slot 303. At least a portion of the spoon 21 can be inserted into the slot 303 through the insertion hole 1021. The sensing module 200 is disposed in the mounting cavity. See also Figure 13 , 16 As shown in Figure -18, the insertion hole 1021 is rectangular and is located on the cover 102. The upper end of the spoon holder 3 is connected to the cover 102. The light emitting end 1701 and the light receiving end 1702 of the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 are respectively installed on both sides of the spoon holder 3. To allow the light from the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 to pass through the spoon holder 3, the spoon holder 3 can be made of a colorless and transparent material (such as glass), or holes for the light from the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 to pass through can be opened on the side wall of the spoon holder 3. Figure 12 As shown, under normal conditions, most of the spoon 21 is inserted into the slot 303, and the handle of the spoon 21 is located outside the slot 303, which can prevent dust from falling on the spoon 21.

[0080] When the spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3, the light emitted by the light emitting end 1701 of the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 is directed toward the spoon 21 and blocked by the spoon 21. The light receiving end 1702 of the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 cannot receive the light emitted by the light emitting end 1701. The through-beam photoelectric switch 17 sends an electrical signal (e.g., a low-level signal) to the control module 300 indicating that the spoon 21 is on the spoon holder 3.

[0081] After the spoon 21 placed on the spoon holder 3 is removed, the light receiver 1702 of the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 receives the emitted light. The through-beam photoelectric switch 17 sends an electrical signal (e.g., a high-level signal) to the control module 300 indicating that the spoon 21 is not on the spoon holder 3. The control module 300 controls the stepper motor 9 to rotate a certain angle according to the electrical signal sent by the through-beam photoelectric switch 17, so that the lid 2 moves to the open position.

[0082] When the spoon 21 is placed back on the spoon holder 3, the through-beam photoelectric switch 17 detects that the spoon 21 is on the spoon holder 3 and sends an electrical signal to the control module 300 indicating that the spoon 21 is on the spoon holder 3. Then the control module 300 controls the stepper motor 9 to rotate and returns the lid 2 to the closed position.

[0083] In this embodiment, the control module 300 can be a commercially available stepper motor driver module. The stepper motor driver module controls the stepper motor 9 to rotate forward or backward by a certain angle according to the received high / low level signals. In other embodiments, the control module 300 can also be replaced by a control circuit consisting of a microcontroller and a stepper motor driver chip.

[0084] Similar to Embodiment 1, this embodiment can make the appearance of the condiment box more concise and beautiful by installing the drive device 100, control module 300, sensing module 200 and battery 14 in the mounting cavity, while also reducing the risk of damage to these components.

[0085] Example 4

[0086] See Figures 19-21 As shown, this embodiment provides a condiment box, which includes a box body 1 and a lid 2. The box body 1 is provided with four condiment slots 106 for holding condiments. One end of the lid 2 is pivotally connected to the box body 1 via a first pivot 4. The lid 2 has a closed position that covers the box body 1 and an open position that opens the condiment slots 106. The driving device 100 adopts a push-pull electromagnet 10. The push-pull electromagnet 10 is connected to the lid 2 via a transmission mechanism 400 and drives the lid 2 to move between the closed position and the open position. The spoon holder 3 is located outside the seasoning trough 106 and is used to place the spoon 21. The sensing module 200 uses a proximity switch 19 to detect whether a spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3. The control module 300 uses an electromagnetic relay, which is installed in the second slot 1012 (not shown in the figure). The proximity switch 19 is electrically connected to the electromagnetic relay. The control module 300 receives the electrical signal from the proximity switch 19 and controls the push-pull electromagnet 10 to operate according to the electrical signal.

[0087] See Figure 20 and Figure 21As shown, the box body 1 in this embodiment includes a bottom shell 101 and a cover 102. The upper end of the bottom shell 101 is provided with a first groove 1011 and a second groove 1012. The first groove 1011 and the second groove 1012 are separated by a first partition 1013. The first groove 1011 is divided into four independent seasoning grooves 106 by three second partitions 1014. After the cover 102 is placed on the second groove 1012, it forms an installation cavity with the bottom shell 101 for installing the drive device 100, the control module 300 and the sensing module 200.

[0088] The transmission mechanism 400 in this embodiment includes a connecting rod 5. One end of the connecting rod 5 is hinged to the lid 2. The hinge position between the connecting rod 5 and the lid 2 is a certain distance from the first pivot 4. In other words, the hinge position between the connecting rod 5 and the lid 2 is between the front end and the rear end of the lid 2. The driving device 100 is fixedly connected to the bottom shell 101 of the box body 1. The driving device 100 drives the other end of the connecting rod 5 to move linearly. One end of the connecting rod 5 is pivotally connected to the lid 2 through a second pivot 11. The second pivot 11 is parallel to the first pivot 4. The box body 1 is provided with a second slide rail 105 perpendicular to the first pivot 4. The other end of the connecting rod 5 has a second slider 13 inserted into the second slide rail 105. The driving device 100 is connected to the other end of the connecting rod 5 and drives the second slider 13 to slide within the second slide rail 105. In an optional embodiment, the second slide rail 105 is parallel to the horizontal plane and its height is lower than the upper surface of the box body 1.

[0089] like Figure 20 As shown, during the process of the push-pull electromagnet 10 driving the second slider 13 to move toward the rear end of the box body 1, the box cover 2 slowly opens; when the box cover 2 is in the open position, if the push-pull electromagnet 10 drives the second slider 13 to move toward the front end of the box body 1, the box cover 2 slowly closes.

[0090] For ease of use, the seasoning box provided in this embodiment also includes a battery 14 disposed inside the box body 1. The push-pull electromagnet 10, proximity switch 19 and electromagnetic relay are all electrically connected to the battery 14, and the battery 14 supplies power to the push-pull electromagnet 10, proximity switch 19 and electromagnetic relay.

[0091] See Figure 20 As shown, the spoon holder 3 is located on the outside of the box body 1 and is connected to the outer wall of the bottom shell 101.

[0092] In this embodiment, the proximity switch 19 is located inside the mounting cavity and is fixedly connected to the bottom shell 101 of the box body 1. A window 1016 for the proximity switch 19 to be inserted is provided on the outer wall of the box body 1. The spoon holder 3 is installed on the outside of the window 1016. When the spoon 21 placed on the spoon holder 3 is removed, the proximity switch 19 detects that the spoon 21 is not on the spoon holder 3. The proximity switch 19 sends an electrical signal to the electromagnetic relay and energizes the push-pull electromagnet 10. The push-pull electromagnet 10 pushes the second slider 13 to move towards the rear end of the box body 1, so that the box cover 2 moves from the closed position to the open position. After the spoon 21 is put back on the spoon holder 3, the proximity switch 19 detects that the spoon 21 is on the spoon holder 3. The proximity switch 19 sends an electrical signal to the electromagnetic relay and de-energizes the push-pull electromagnet 10. The push-pull electromagnet 10 drives the box cover 2 back to the closed position.

[0093] Similar to Embodiment 1, this embodiment can make the appearance of the condiment box more concise and beautiful by installing the push-pull electromagnet 10, proximity switch 19, electromagnetic relay and battery 14 in the mounting cavity, while also reducing the risk of damage to these components.

[0094] Example 5

[0095] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that in this embodiment, a micro switch 20 is used instead of the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 in Embodiment 1. See also... Figure 23 As shown, the micro switch 20 is installed in the slot 303 of the spoon holder 3. In this embodiment, the micro switch 20 is used to detect whether the spoon 21 is located on the spoon holder 3.

[0096] During the process of inserting the spoon 21 into the slot 303, the spoon 21 presses the metal spring on the micro switch 20, causing the micro switch 20 to conduct. The control module 300 receives a level signal (e.g., a low level signal) indicating that the spoon 21 is on the spoon holder 3. The control module 300 then controls the servo motor 8 to move the lid 2 from the open position to the closed position. During the process of removing the spoon 21 from the slot 303, the metal spring on the micro switch 20 is no longer pressed by the spoon 21, the micro switch 20 is deactivated, and the control module 300 receives a level signal (e.g., a high level signal) indicating that the spoon 21 is no longer on the spoon holder 3. The control module 300 then controls the servo motor 8 to move the lid 2 from the closed position to the open position.

[0097] Example 6

[0098] The difference between this embodiment and embodiment 1 is that in this embodiment, a pressure sensor 18 is used instead of the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 in embodiment 1, the structure of the spoon holder 3 is changed, and the installation position of the sensing module 200 is adapted based on the characteristics of the pressure sensor 18.

[0099] SeeFigure 24 As shown, the spoon holder 3 in this embodiment includes a support plate 301 and a drag bar 302. One end of the support plate 301 is connected to the outer wall of the bottom shell 101. A pressure sensor 18 is installed on the top of the support plate 301 of the spoon holder 3. One end of the drag bar 302 is connected to the outer wall of the bottom shell 101, and the other end of the drag bar 302 is provided with an upwardly curved hook. The drag bar 302 is located above and in front of the support plate 301. When the spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3, the head of the spoon 21 presses against the pressure sensor 18, and the handle of the spoon 21 rests on the drag bar 302. In this embodiment, the pressure sensor 18 is used to detect whether the spoon 21 is located on the spoon holder 3. The pressure sensor 18 transmits the detected signal to the control module 300, and then the control module 300 controls the drive device 100 to automatically open or close the lid 2.

[0100] Example 7

[0101] The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 3 is that in this embodiment, a pressure sensor 18 is used instead of the diffuse reflection photoelectric switch 16 in Embodiment 3, and the installation position of the sensing module 200 is adapted accordingly. See also Figure 25 As shown, in this embodiment, the pressure sensor 18 is set at the bottom of the slot 303 of the spoon holder 3. When the spoon 21 is placed on the spoon holder 3, the spoon 21 presses on the pressure sensor 18.

[0102] The embodiments of this application have now been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concept of this application, some details known in the art have not been described. Those skilled in the art can fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein based on the above description.

[0103] While specific embodiments of this application have been described in detail by way of examples, those skilled in the art should understand that the above examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can be made to the above embodiments or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the scope and spirit of this application. In particular, as long as there is no structural conflict, the various technical features mentioned in the embodiments can be combined in any manner.

Claims

1. A seasoning box, comprising a box body and a box lid, wherein the box body is provided with a seasoning slot for holding seasonings, and the box lid is movably connected to the box body and has a closed position covering the box body and an open position for opening the seasoning slot, characterized in that, Also includes: A drive device, which is connected to the lid via a transmission mechanism and is used to drive the lid to move between a closed position and an open position; A spoon holder, which is located on the outside of the seasoning trough and is used to hold spoons; A sensing module is used to detect whether a spoon is placed on the spoon holder; as well as The control module receives electrical signals from the sensing module and controls the drive device to operate according to the electrical signals.

2. The seasoning box according to claim 1, characterized in that: One end of the lid is pivotally connected to the box body via a first pivot.

3. The seasoning box according to claim 2, characterized in that: The transmission mechanism includes a connecting rod, one end of which is connected to the driving device. The driving device is fixedly connected to the box body and can drive the connecting rod to swing around an axis parallel to the first pivot. The other end of the connecting rod is slidably connected to the box cover.

4. The seasoning box according to claim 3, characterized in that: The lid is provided with a first slide rail, which extends from the front end to the rear end of the lid. The connecting rod has a first slider, which is inserted into the first slide rail and can slide within the first slide rail.

5. The seasoning box according to claim 4, characterized in that: The drive device is located between the front and rear faces of the box.

6. The seasoning box according to claim 4, characterized in that: The first slide is perpendicular to the first pivot and parallel to the upper surface of the lid.

7. The seasoning box according to claim 2, characterized in that: The transmission mechanism includes a driving gear and a driven gear that mesh with each other. The driving device is fixedly connected to the box body and drives the driving gear to rotate. The driven gear is fixedly connected to the box cover and is coaxial with the first pivot.

8. The seasoning box according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that: The drive device can be any one of a servo motor, a stepper motor, or a servo motor.

9. The seasoning box according to claim 2, characterized in that: The transmission mechanism includes a connecting rod, one end of which is hinged to the lid. The hinge position between the connecting rod and the lid is a certain distance from the first pivot. The driving device is fixedly connected to the box body, and the driving device drives the other end of the connecting rod to move linearly.

10. The seasoning box according to claim 9, characterized in that: One end of the connecting rod is pivotally connected to the box cover via a second pivot, the second pivot being parallel to the first pivot. The box body is provided with a second slide rail perpendicular to the first pivot. The other end of the connecting rod has a second slider inserted into the second slide rail. The driving device is connected to the other end of the connecting rod and drives the second slider to slide within the second slide rail.

11. The seasoning box according to claim 10, characterized in that: The second slide is parallel to the horizontal plane and its height is lower than the upper surface of the box.

12. The seasoning box according to claim 11, characterized in that: The driving device is a push-pull electromagnet.

13. The seasoning box according to any one of claims 1-7 and 9-12, characterized in that: It also includes a battery housed within the casing, and the drive device, the sensing module, and the control module are all electrically connected to the battery.

14. The seasoning box according to claim 13, characterized in that: The battery is a rechargeable battery, and the condiment box also includes a charging module electrically connected to the battery.

15. The seasoning box according to any one of claims 1-7, 9-12, and 14, characterized in that: The spoon holder is located on the outside of the box and is connected to the outer wall of the box.

16. The seasoning box according to claim 15, characterized in that: The spoon holder has slots for holding spoons.

17. The seasoning box according to claim 13, characterized in that: The spoon holder is located on the outside of the box and is connected to the outer wall of the box.

18. The seasoning box according to claim 17, characterized in that: The spoon holder has slots for holding spoons.

19. The seasoning box according to any one of claims 1-7, 9-12, 14, 16-18, characterized in that: The box body has an installation cavity, and the drive device and the control module are both located in the installation cavity.

20. The seasoning box according to claim 19, characterized in that: The outer wall of the box is provided with an insertion hole, the spoon holder is located in the mounting cavity and connected to the box, the spoon holder is provided with a slot, at least part of the spoon can be inserted into the slot through the insertion hole, and the sensing module is located in the mounting cavity.

21. The seasoning box according to claim 13, characterized in that: The box body has an installation cavity, and the drive device and the control module are both located in the installation cavity.

22. The seasoning box according to claim 21, characterized in that: The outer wall of the box is provided with an insertion hole, the spoon holder is located in the mounting cavity and connected to the box, the spoon holder is provided with a slot, at least part of the spoon can be inserted into the slot through the insertion hole, and the sensing module is located in the mounting cavity.

23. The seasoning box according to claim 15, characterized in that: The box body has an installation cavity, and the drive device and the control module are both located in the installation cavity.

24. The seasoning box according to claim 23, characterized in that: The outer wall of the box is provided with an insertion hole, the spoon holder is located in the mounting cavity and connected to the box, the spoon holder is provided with a slot, at least part of the spoon can be inserted into the slot through the insertion hole, and the sensing module is located in the mounting cavity.

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