A system for intelligent automatic dishwashing with integrated robot arm control

Abstract

A system for intelligent automatic dishwashing with integrated robot arm control, consisting of: a robot arm equipped with a gripper, wherein the robot arm is configured to detect, identify and pick up utensils in a predefined area using an artificial intelligence (AI) based image processing system; a washing chamber configured to receive the items placed by the robot arm; a cleaning mechanism within the washing chamber, comprising rotating high-torque brushes and multi-angle high-pressure water jets, configured to remove food residue from the utensils; a detergent dosing unit configured to supply temperature-controlled detergents during a washing cycle; a drying module comprising a HEPA-filtered hot air circulation system (100) for disinfecting and drying the utensils; a mobile application interface configured to remotely control and monitor the operation of the dishwasher; and an IoT-based control unit configured to enable integration into a smart home and provide predictive maintenance alerts.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of automated kitchen appliances and smart home systems. In particular, the invention relates to an intelligent, automated dishwashing system that integrates robotic arm manipulation, computer vision, artificial intelligence, and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity for the autonomous detection, collection, and cleaning of utensils.

[0002] Conventional dishwashing systems primarily require the manual loading and arrangement of dirty dishes in the cleaning chamber. While fully automatic dishwashers are commercially available, they often lack the ability to independently collect dishes, intelligently identify different types of kitchen utensils, or adjust the washing parameters to the material, degree of soiling, or fragility of the dishes. This limits their usefulness in dynamic private or commercial environments where user intervention remains essential.

[0003] Attempts have been made to introduce robotic components into kitchen environments, such as robotic arms for food preparation or robotic cleaning devices. However, these systems are either highly specialized, limited in their mobility, or lack the comprehensive integration with advanced sensor systems and AI-based decision-making processes required for reliable dishwashing automation. For example, existing solutions like robotic dishwashers or smart dishwashers may rely on magnetism, rigid sensor arrangements, or limited cleaning mechanisms that do not allow for adaptable, scalable, and safe handling of different types of dishes.Furthermore, existing dishwashers often operate in isolation from broader smart home ecosystems and lack features such as mobile control, real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance, or integration with voice assistants. This reduces user convenience and hinders full automation in modern smart kitchens.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a comprehensive, intelligent dishwashing system that combines robotic manipulation, AI-based object recognition, automated cleaning processes, and IoT-enabled control to create a seamless, efficient, and user-friendly solution. The present invention addresses these challenges by introducing an intelligent dishwashing system that autonomously handles the collection, washing, drying, and system diagnostics of dishes, thereby revolutionizing the traditional dishwashing paradigm. To solve this problem, the present invention provides a gesture-controlled robotic arm system.

[0005] The system integrates a robotic arm with computer vision and artificial intelligence for the autonomous detection, identification and removal of soiled utensils from the environment, such as work surfaces and sinks.

[0006] The system automates the entire cleaning cycle, including mechanical scrubbing, high-pressure rinsing, detergent supply and HEPA-filtered hot air drying, thus ensuring thorough disinfection and hygiene.

[0007] The system allows remote control and monitoring of the dishwasher via a special mobile application, enabling users to adjust wash cycles, receive real-time status updates, and perform remote diagnostics.

[0008] The system can optionally integrate a machine learning-based gesture classification for predefined gesture commands, thereby increasing its accuracy, adaptability, and scalability for future improvements.

[0009] The system enables seamless integration into smart home ecosystems, including voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home, thus allowing hands-free control and timed cleaning operations.

[0010] The system ensures safe and reliable operation and features collision protection sensors, safety interlocks, child safety locks and emergency stop mechanisms to prevent unintentional contact or unintentional activation.

[0011] The system achieves energy and resource efficiency through intelligent load measurement and Eco-mode operation, minimizing water and electricity consumption without compromising cleaning performance.

[0012] The system features self-cleaning and sterilization functions, including antimicrobial coatings and automated internal cleaning cycles to ensure hygiene and reduce manual maintenance.

[0013] The system is designed to offer a modular, high-performance and economically viable design that is suitable for both private and commercial kitchen environments, can handle different types of utensils and can be adapted to different installation conditions.

[0014] In one embodiment, the present invention provides an intelligent, automated dishwashing system that integrates a robotic arm, artificial intelligence (AI)-based image processing, and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity to enable fully autonomous dishwashing with minimal human intervention. In one embodiment, the system includes a robotic arm configured to detect, identify, and remove dirty dishes from predefined locations, such as countertops or sinks, using AI-based object recognition and computer vision algorithms. The robotic arm incorporates dynamic path planning and anti-collision capabilities to ensure safe and efficient operation.The dishwasher also includes an automated cleaning module that uses rotating brushes, high-pressure water jets at multiple angles, and temperature-controlled detergent cycles to clean utensils. A HEPA-filtered hot air drying system ensures thorough drying and disinfection.

[0015] The system can be operated via a mobile application that enables real-time cycle monitoring, remote control, mode adjustment, and predictive maintenance alerts. Integration with smart home platforms such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home allows for voice-controlled operation and automated scheduling. Further embodiments include advanced safety mechanisms such as a child lock, an emergency stop function, and interlocks to prevent operation under unsafe conditions. The system also incorporates self-cleaning functions, antimicrobial surfaces, and intelligent resource optimization based on load measurement. The invention thus offers a highly efficient, intelligent, and user-friendly dishwashing solution suitable for both residential and commercial use, overcoming the limitations of existing technologies through true end-to-end automation. The invention will be explained again below.

[0016] The present invention relates to an intelligent, fully automatic dishwashing system configured to autonomously identify, collect, clean, and disinfect dishes, employing a combination of robotic manipulation, artificial intelligence, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The system is designed for both residential and commercial kitchen environments and offers a seamless and intelligent dishwashing experience with minimal human intervention. Fig.Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the intelligent automated dishwashing system. The system is installed on a worktop (1), which serves as a base for the initial placement of the utensils. Next to the worktop is a sink (2) that can be used to collect or soak utensils. Soiled utensils (4), visibly stained with food residue, are positioned on the worktop. A clamp-like gripper (3) attached to a rotating robotic arm (5) is configured to identify and grasp these utensils. The robotic arm (5) is responsible for handling and transporting the utensils from the detection area to the washing station. A second rotating arm (6), integrated with a scrubbing device (7), performs the cleaning process by applying mechanical scrubbing motions to the surfaces of the utensils.This configuration enables the automated detection, collection, and cleaning of utensils, thereby minimizing human intervention and optimizing dishwashing efficiency.

[0017] Simultaneously, multiple high-pressure water jets are activated from different angles to ensure thorough cleaning and rinsing. A temperature-controlled cleaning cycle is employed to enhance grease removal and disinfection in accordance with food safety standards. Following the mechanical and chemical cleaning cycles, the utensils undergo a high-temperature rinse, followed by a drying process with HEPA-filtered hot air circulation, eliminating residual moisture and microbial contamination. The drying chamber is coated with antimicrobial finishes to guarantee hygiene and prevent biofilm formation during repeated use. The entire process is managed and monitored via a dedicated mobile application, available for both iOS and Android platforms.The app allows users to remotely start, pause, or adjust wash cycles, receive real-time notifications, and perform system diagnostics. Customizable modes such as "Quick Wash," "Heavy Duty," and "Eco Mode" enable users to tailor the cleaning process to the type of load and the level of soiling. Furthermore, the app supports over-the-air (OTA) firmware updates and predictive maintenance alerts to maximize operational reliability and efficiency. The system is fully compatible with popular smart home ecosystems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home, enabling voice control and scheduled automation. Built-in safety features include a child lock, an emergency stop function, and interlocks that disable mechanical operation when the robot arm is outside the wash chamber, preventing accidents or misuse.To ensure sustainability, the system features intelligent load detection technology that optimizes water and detergent consumption based on the detected quantity and type of dishes. Energy-efficient heating elements and reduced water consumption make the system environmentally friendly and cost-effective. An Eco mode further minimizes energy consumption during off-peak hours. In another configuration, the dishwasher includes a self-cleaning mechanism that regularly sterilizes the interior surfaces, including the robot arms, brushes, and water jets. Antimicrobial coatings on the contact surfaces contribute to long-term hygiene and reduce the need for manual cleaning. The structural design supports modular installation, allowing the appliance to be installed as an under-counter unit or as a freestanding unit, thus making it suitable for a variety of kitchen layouts.The interior features adjustable baskets and compartments that can accommodate dishes of different shapes and sizes, including plates, bowls, glasses and cookware.

Claims

[1] A system for intelligent automatic dishwashing with integrated robot arm control, consisting of: a robot arm equipped with a gripper, wherein the robot arm is configured to detect, identify and pick up utensils in a predefined area using an artificial intelligence (AI) based image processing system; a washing chamber configured to receive the items placed by the robot arm; a cleaning mechanism within the washing chamber, comprising rotating high-torque brushes and multi-angle high-pressure water jets, configured to remove food residue from the utensils; a detergent dosing unit configured to supply temperature-controlled detergents during a washing cycle; a drying module comprising a HEPA-filtered hot air circulation system (100) for disinfecting and drying the utensils; a mobile application interface configured to remotely control and monitor the operation of the dishwasher; and an IoT-based control unit configured to enable integration into a smart home and provide predictive maintenance alerts. [2] System (100) according to claim 1, wherein the AI-based image processing system (100) is configured to classify utensils based on type, size and degree of contamination. [3] System (100) according to claim 1, wherein the robot arm is equipped with collision protection sensors to prevent damage to sensitive utensils during operation. [4] System (100) according to claim 1, wherein the mobile application provides user-selectable cleaning modes, including quick rinse, intensive cleaning and eco mode. [5] System (100) according to claim 1, wherein the IoT-based control unit is configured for voice-controlled operation via virtual assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home. [6] System (100) according to claim 1, wherein the dishwasher comprises adjustable baskets and adaptable compartments to accommodate dishes of different shapes and sizes.