KITCHEN PROCESSOR SYSTEM AND AUTOMATIC TARE METHOD FOR A KITCHEN PROCESSOR SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a food processor system comprising a base unit having a housing and at least one accessory having an identification feature. A weighing module configured to detect a gross weight is provided on the base unit, and a control device is provided on the base unit. The invention also relates to a method for automatic taring for such a food processor system.

[0002] Kitchen appliances of the type mentioned above are already known, particularly for processing raw or semi-finished food products. These kitchen appliances comprise a base unit with which separate functional parts interact to process a food item depending on the dish, drink, or similar product being prepared. Functional parts are usually sold by kitchen appliance suppliers as accessories, for example, as cooking vessels, steaming containers, lids, cutting or stirring attachments. In general, the accessory and the base unit each have compatible interfaces that enable the two components to interact. In particular, through interacting interfaces, a movable component of the accessory can be driven by an electric motor arranged in the base unit.

[0003] A weighing module for recording a gross weight is provided on the base unit. Preferably, a gross weight corresponds to the total weight of a filled or empty accessory attached to the base unit. More preferably, the gross weight also takes into account the value measured by the weighing module when empty, i.e., when no accessory or other goods are attached to the base unit.

[0004] The recorded gross weight may also include the respective net weight of several accessories attached to the basic unit at the same time, with or without contents.

[0005] Generally, a weighing module, like most sensors, must be calibrated to achieve meaningful measurement results. Calibration of a weighing module is performed by a process known as taring, which is usually initiated or controlled by manual user input. Thus, when the weighing module reaches a certain state, the recorded value or the currently measured gross weight is defined as "zero" and stored as a tare weight. This tare weight is subtracted from the currently recorded weight for subsequent weight recordings to calculate or display a net weight.

[0006] In other words, the gross weight is the value recorded by the weighing module and the net weight is the weight to be determined of a good that may be picked up by an accessory.

[0007] A food processor with a weighing device is known, for example, from document DE 10 2014 111 193 A1. For taring, a recorded gross weight on this food processor can be set to zero manually by user input. Alternatively, a recorded gross weight during startup of the known food processor can be automatically defined as "zero."

[0008] To minimize the effort on the part of the user, the document EP 3446081 A1 proposes another kitchen appliance, whereby an accessory is recognized and its own weight, assigned to the identification code and previously stored, is automatically taken into account for the calculation of a net weight.

[0009] When preparing a meal, it's common for ingredients to be inserted into the same accessory one after the other, or for an accessory to be inserted or removed multiple times. A disadvantage of conventional kitchen appliances, however, is that taring is performed multiple times, especially when another ingredient is added. In addition, additional accessories can also be used, which can distort the weight reading.

[0010] Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of improving known kitchen appliance systems and, in particular, of increasing the prospects of success and user-friendliness when using a kitchen appliance system.

[0011] This object is achieved by a kitchen appliance system of the type mentioned at the outset in that a detection device configured to detect an identification feature of at least one accessory is provided on the basic appliance, and in that the control device is configured to detect a change in position of the at least one accessory relative to the basic appliance, to retrieve weight information corresponding to an identification feature detected by the detection device, and to calculate a net weight on the basis of a gross weight detected by the weighing module and taking the weight information into account.

[0012] The food processor system offers an automatic, intelligent tare function. This not only guarantees the success of any preparation process performed on the food processor system, but also increases user-friendliness. In particular, it eliminates the need for dedicated, manual user input for taring, while still accurately determining the net weight of an ingredient.

[0013] By automatically identifying and detecting the insertion or removal of an accessory, a net weight for any included contents can be determined automatically with increased safety and reduced user effort.

[0014] Furthermore, the inventive kitchen appliance system can accurately determine a net weight for an ingredient quantity that has been changed using an accessory not used with the base unit, for example, by filling or emptying in a position not attached to the base unit. The respective weight of additional accessories used during a preparation process can also be automatically taken into account when calculating the net weight.

[0015] A base unit within the meaning of the present invention is preferably designed as a base for the use of accessories by having an interface for interaction with at least one accessory. The base unit has a housing in which an electric motor for driving accessories is arranged. The electric motor interacts with an accessory attached to the base unit via the interface of the base unit.

[0016] An accessory is defined as any part designed to interact with the base unit. The accessory can be directly or indirectly inserted into the base unit. For direct insertion, the accessory has an interface compatible with the interface of the base unit. For direct insertion, the accessory is attached to another accessory, which in turn is directly inserted into the base unit. The term "insertion" includes, among other things, the actions from the list: connecting, coupling, assembling, placing, attaching, applying, and the like. In particular, an accessory is designed to expand the function of the base unit, for example, as a cutting, stirring, cooking, weighing, steaming, or covering unit. The function for which the accessory is intended preferably designates the accessory type.

[0017] The term "identification feature" encompasses any information about the type and / or a property of the accessory. The identification feature is preferably sufficient to identify an accessory or, in the context of a database with multiple identification features, to be able to assign it. An identification feature within the meaning of the invention can be an accessory type, such as a cutting, stirring, cooking, weighing, steaming, or covering attachment, and / or a serial number.

[0018] The information feature is preferably stored on a data carrier that is integrated into the base body of the accessory or is permanently attached to the base body of the accessory. Multiple data carriers can be provided, each carrying an identification feature, and arranged at different positions on the accessory. Thus, depending on the insertion position or direction in which the accessory is inserted on the base device, an identification feature corresponding to the insertion position can be detected. Alternatively or additionally, a data carrier can have multiple identification features, each of which is detected depending on the insertion position of the accessory on the base body. In particular, a data carrier can be switchable, for example by means of a magnet, and provide a corresponding identification feature for detection depending on the switching position or switching state.This means that for an accessory that can assume several operating positions on the base unit, a suitable quick start mode can be automatically called up depending on its current operating position.

[0019] The detection device on the base unit is configured to detect the identification feature of the accessory. For example, if the identification feature is stored in the form of a QR code, the detection device is preferably designed as an optical reader. The detection device can also be a reader for a data storage device connected to an RFID antenna, a part of a Bluetooth system, or a part of a bus system.

[0020] The base unit includes a weighing module configured to detect a gross weight. The weighing module is preferably sufficiently sensitive to detect small weight variations. In particular, the weighing module can be configured to detect a weight variation caused by adding or removing an accessory that is not intended to hold an ingredient. For example, the weighing module is sufficiently sensitive to detect a weight variation caused by inserting or removing a cutting or stirring attachment.

[0021] Furthermore, a control device is arranged in or on the housing of the base unit. The control device preferably has a processor with a storage medium. In particular, a computer program with instructions can be stored on the storage medium, the execution of which by the processor causes the food processor to perform an operating method. A database with identification features, weight information, and / or cooking information can be stored on the storage medium.

[0022] In particular, the control device can be configured to receive and process a gross weight detected by the weighing module and an identification feature detected by the detection device in a timely or simultaneous manner. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be configured to first detect a change in the position of an accessory and only then command the detection device to perform a detection process to identify the accessory.

[0023] The control device is preferably configured to compare a detected identification feature with identification features from a database in order to identify the accessory having the detected identification feature. It is advantageous to configure the database with stored identification features to which weight information is assigned for the corresponding accessory.

[0024] Weight information within the meaning of the invention is preferably a value for the weight of an accessory. For example, if the accessory is designed as a container, the weight information associated with the identification feature of this accessory is a value for the weight of the empty container.

[0025] The database may also store cooking information associated with at least one identification feature and relating to the execution of a preparation step using the accessory bearing the identification feature. The term "cooking information" encompasses any type of preparation instructions, information about an ingredient such as the type, quantity, or weight of an ingredient, or about an accessory to be used for a preparation step.

[0026] The control device is configured to detect a change in position of the at least one accessory relative to the base unit. Thus, the control device may, in particular, be capable of detecting the insertion or removal of one or more accessories on the base unit. Alternatively or additionally, the control device may be capable of detecting the insertion or removal of an accessory on another, additional accessory already inserted on the base unit. For example, the control device may be capable of detecting the insertion of a cutting or stirring attachment or a lid on a cooking vessel.

[0027] Furthermore, the control device is configured to retrieve weight information corresponding to an identification feature detected by the detection device. Preferably, the control device can compare a detected identification feature with identification features stored in a database and retrieve weight information associated with a matching identification feature from the database.

[0028] The control device is also configured to calculate a net weight based on a gross weight recorded by the weighing module and taking the weight information into account. After the weighing module has recorded a gross weight, detected a change in the position of an accessory, and retrieved weight information corresponding to the detected accessory, a net weight, i.e. the weight of any contents picked up by the accessory, can be calculated. The weight of the contents can be zero, meaning the accessory is empty. Preferably, the value measured by the weighing module for an empty state, i.e. when no accessory or item is inserted into the base unit, is also available. This can then also be taken into account when calculating the net weight.

[0029] For the calculation of the net weight, the amount of weight information is preferably deducted from the recorded gross weight if insertion of an accessory has been detected, or the amount of weight information is added to the recorded gross weight if removal of an accessory has been detected.

[0030] According to a first embodiment of the kitchen appliance system, the control device is designed to control the insertion or removal of at least one accessory in relation to the basic appliance and / or in relation to another accessory by Forming a difference between a first gross weight recorded at a first time and a second gross weight recorded at a second, later time, comparing the amount of the difference formed with at least one reference value from a database and classifying the sign of the difference formed as "positive" or "negative" In addition, the control device is designed to calculate the net weight by adding the Calculate weight information with the second gross weight or subtract the weight information from the second gross weight.

[0031] With a kitchen appliance system designed in this way, the insertion or removal of an accessory on the base unit can be detected based on a change in weight, eliminating the need for a dedicated position detection device. This allows for a compact design of the base unit.

[0032] Here too, the value that the weighing module measures for an empty state, i.e. when no accessory or goods are attached to the basic device, is preferably taken into account when calculating the net weight.

[0033] Preferably, the weighing module records a gross weight at successive points in time. Alternatively, the weighing module records a gross weight continuously over time. The shorter the time interval between two recordings, the higher the probability of detecting and accounting for a change in weight. Recording and storing a gross weight multiple times at different times not only enables weight monitoring but also the retrieval of values ​​recorded in the past. For example, a variable for a weight can be reset to a previously recorded value for a gross weight.

[0034] The term "difference" refers to a vector quantity, i.e., with an absolute value and a sign. The sign can be positive or negative.

[0035] By comparing the difference in amount with reference values, the control device determines whether the operating status of one or more accessories on the basic device has changed.

[0036] If the comparison results in at least one match between the calculated value and a reference value from the database, the control device detects that the insertion state of an accessory corresponding to the reference value has changed. If, in a further step, the control device classifies the sign of the calculated difference as positive, the control device outputs a signal corresponding to the insertion of at least one accessory. If the sign is negative, the control device detects the removal of at least one accessory.

[0037] If the comparison shows that the difference does not match any of the reference values ​​from the database, the control unit detects that no accessory has been inserted or removed. If the difference is still non-zero, the control unit detects that the weight change was caused by the addition or removal of a content contained in an accessory. By assigning the sign of the difference, the control unit can detect an addition or removal.

[0038] If the amount is zero, regardless of the sign, the control device detects that no weight change has been made, that an accessory has not been inserted or removed, and that no contents have been added or removed.

[0039] According to a further embodiment of the food processor system, a position detection device is provided on the base unit and configured to detect the insertion or removal of at least one accessory with respect to the base unit and / or with respect to another accessory and to forward this information to the control unit. Furthermore, the control unit is configured to calculate the net weight, depending on the detected insertion or removal, by adding the weight information to the detected gross weight or subtracting the weight information from the detected gross weight.

[0040] The control unit thus automatically detects whether an accessory is inserted and whether its position allows for proper interaction with the base unit, thus offering increased user-friendliness. Furthermore, by providing a dedicated position detection device, the operating status of an accessory on the base unit can be determined with increased accuracy and reliability. Furthermore, this can simplify the programming effort for the control unit.

[0041] The position detection device can be arranged in the accessory and / or in the housing of the base unit. Preferably, the accessory has at least one element configured to influence the position detection device, and the position detection device is configured to output a signal containing position information depending on the influence exerted by the element.

[0042] In particular, the interaction of the element of the accessory with the position detection device can be designed as follows: Opening or closing an electrical contact between the element on the accessory and the position detection device by changing the position of the accessory relative to the base unit; Opening or closing a magnetic contact, for example a reed contact, between an element designed as a magnet on the accessory and the position detection device by changing the position of the accessory relative to the base unit; Detecting a change in inductance or capacitance brought about by the interaction of a metal part on the accessory and an active detection element of the position detection device; Detecting the intensity of the magnetic field of a magnet arranged on the accessory by an active detection element of the position detection device; Detecting an identification feature from the element designed as a data carrier on the accessory;and / or detecting a change in a speed of rotation, for example of a cutting or stirring attachment, or a temperature level.

[0043] The position of an accessory can be detected in relation to the base unit. If at least two accessories are provided, the position of a second accessory, for example a stirring attachment, can be detected in relation to the position of a first accessory, for example a stirring bowl. Overall, the position detection device can be suitable for detecting the position of one or more accessories, and the control device can be configured to automatically detect the insertion or removal of one or more accessories together. For example, it can be automatically detected whether a cooking basket is correctly inserted into a cooking vessel and also whether the cooking vessel is correctly inserted into the base unit.In this way, changes in the position of accessory combinations can be detected, whereby an accessory combination can be formed by an accessory being mounted in, on, on, below or above another accessory.

[0044] According to a further embodiment of the food processor system, the control device is configured to retrieve the respective corresponding weight information when detecting a plurality of identification features and to take this weight information into account together for calculating the net weight.

[0045] When using multiple accessories simultaneously, the weight of each accessory can be used to calculate the net weight, thus determining the weight of the food picked up by one of the accessories. This allows, for example, when using a cooking vessel on the base unit together with an additional stirring attachment, accurate weighing of the food picked up in the cooking vessel.

[0046] Preferably, the detection device has a detection field and is configured to record machine-readable information corresponding to an identification feature format as identification features and forward it to the control device. Furthermore, the control device can compare the plurality of identification features thus recorded with identification features from a database and determine from the comparison result which accessories are currently being used.

[0047] In a particular embodiment, the control device is capable of retrieving cooking information from the database with identification features that are simultaneously applicable to all recognized accessories. Applicable cooking information is cooking information that relates to the execution of a preparation step using an accessory bearing a detected identification feature. For example, a recipe for mashed potatoes is applicable cooking information for an accessory combination of a "cooking vessel" with a "mixing attachment."

[0048] According to a further embodiment of the food processor system, the weight information corresponding to a detected identification feature is stored together with the identification feature on the accessory, in a storage means of the control device or in an external database accessible by the control device.

[0049] Weight information stored on the accessory, for example in a data carrier arranged on the accessory or as a code, reduces the risk of confusion with other accessories that have a different weight.

[0050] Storage in the control device, in turn, allows simplified access to the weight information and eliminates the need to record the weight information together with the identification feature.

[0051] For this purpose, the control device preferably has its own storage means on which weight information is stored and assigned to at least one identification feature.

[0052] If the weight information is stored in an external database, it can be remotely managed, activated, updated, or modified by the accessory manufacturer. This can be particularly advantageous if, for example, the weight of the accessory changes due to wear or if incorrect weight information was accidentally stored. The control device is preferably configured to access the database via a communication interface.

[0053] Storing weight information in a special format or as encrypted, machine-readable information is particularly advantageous. This avoids the need for third-party accessories.

[0054] According to a further embodiment of the food processor system, the amount of weight information corresponding to a detected identification feature has been stored by the accessory manufacturer or as part of a calibration process by weighing the corresponding, unfilled accessory using the weighing module.

[0055] The accessory manufacturer can store weight information on the accessory, in the control unit, or in a separate database. This ensures that the stored weight information corresponds to the actual weight of the accessory and also reduces the risk of incorrect storage, for example, by the user.

[0056] Calibration, in turn, allows the weight information to be adjusted to the actual, current weight of accessories. Weight variations can be caused, for example, by wear and tear. Contamination of the weighing module or an accessory, which would otherwise falsify the weighing, can also be taken into account.

[0057] In particular, weight information can be stored during the manufacturing process of the accessory by calibrating the weighing module and the control device with the help of the user, for example, by activating a tare function on a communication interface and / or by automatic calibration by the control device. Manual or automatic calibration can precede a preparation process and / or occur during the execution of a preparation process with the food processor system.

[0058] Furthermore, weight information can be assigned to an identification feature by the kitchen appliance manufacturer before the kitchen appliance is sold and / or subsequently assigned via a software update. Weight information can also be assigned in connection with the purchase of an accessory by activating weight information in the database or making it accessible when a suitable accessory has been purchased. Alternatively or additionally, weight information can be assigned to identification features or activated when a service offer has been accepted, such as an additional service on a digital portal connected to the database. In addition, an assignment can be stored in the database through user input.

[0059] Alternatively, weight information for an accessory can be stored by the control device in the context of a learning process. Thus, upon first use of the accessory together with the base unit, the accessory's own weight can be automatically determined by calculating the difference between a gross weight recorded without the accessory and a gross weight recorded with the accessory. In particular, the thus determined own weight of the accessory can be automatically stored as weight information, which is then linked to the accessory's identification feature in a database.

[0060] According to a further embodiment of the kitchen appliance system, the control device is configured to compare the net weight with a weight indication from a preparation instruction and to output a corresponding user instruction to add or reduce an amount of ingredients, wherein the weight indication comprises a target weight for an amount of ingredients.

[0061] This allows the food processor system to enable a user to easily follow preparation instructions. In particular, such a control unit configuration, in combination with accessory recognition, allows for accurate user instructions to be issued even if the accessory has been removed and reinserted from the base unit during a preparation process.

[0062] In this context, the weight specification is preferably a target weight for an ingredient type stored in the context of a preparation instruction. For example, "100 g flour" can be a weight specification for a preparation instruction designed as a recipe for a cake.

[0063] Alternatively or additionally, the control device is configured to compare a detected gross weight with a weight indication from a preparation instruction and to output a corresponding user instruction to add or reduce an ingredient quantity, wherein the weight indication comprises at least one weight information item for a recommended accessory and a target weight for an ingredient quantity.

[0064] In this way, a recognized accessory and any contents in the form of a food or ingredient picked up by the accessory can be compared with the information in a preparation instruction during its implementation and a corresponding user message can be issued.

[0065] Here, the weight information includes, on the one hand, weight information corresponding to the weight of an accessory, and a target weight for an ingredient type. Such a weight information can be generated by a function of the control device. For example, if the control device detects the insertion of an accessory and recognizes the accessory, the control device generates a weight information by summing the weight information for the recognized accessory with a stored target value for an ingredient currently being processed according to the preparation instructions.

[0066] According to a further embodiment of the kitchen appliance system, the control device is configured to output the net weight via a communication interface as machine-readable information or as information for a user.

[0067] This means that the net weight can be used for automatic control of the food processor system in a subsequent preparation step or as a guide for the user.

[0068] The net weight output by the control device as machine-readable information can be used by the control device itself to generate commands for functional components of the food processor system to perform a subsequent preparation step. Alternatively or additionally, the net weight output as machine-readable information can be forwarded to another unit, for example, to a server accessible via the Internet.

[0069] The control device is preferably connected to the communication interface via a bidirectional communication connection, so that information can be exchanged from the control device to the communication interface and also from the communication interface to the control device. Further preferred is a design of the control device for wireless access to an external database, for example, via WLAN, WIFI, Bluetooth, or the like. Alternatively or additionally, the control device can be configured for access to a database via a USB port or an electronic bus system.

[0070] For output as information to a user, the communication interface is preferably designed as a user interface. In this case, a communication interface can be a user interface in the form of an acoustic, haptic, or optical display, but also an interface for forwarding information to a user terminal such as a smartphone or a digital property management system. Thus, the communication interface provides information directly, for example, as a display itself, or indirectly via an additional user interface.

[0071] In addition, the control device can first compare the net weight with a weight corresponding to a target weight from a preparation instruction and then output the net weight together with the comparison result.

[0072] The above-mentioned object is also achieved by a method for automatic taring for a food processor system with a basic device and with an accessory, in particular for a food processor system according to one of the above embodiments, in which a change in position of the accessory relative to the basic device is detected, in which a gross weight and an identification feature of an accessory are detected, in which weight information corresponding to the detected identification feature is retrieved, and in which a net weight is calculated on the basis of the gross weight and taking into account the weight information.

[0073] According to a first embodiment of the method, the position change is detected by detecting a first gross weight at a first point in time and a second gross weight at a second, later point in time, comparing the difference in magnitude between the first gross weight and the second gross weight with at least one reference value from a database, and the comparison resulting in an increase in at least one reference value due to the difference in magnitude or a match. Furthermore, the net weight is calculated based on the second gross weight and taking the weight information into account.

[0074] In general, a change in the position of an accessory on the base unit can be detected. By additionally considering the sign of the difference between the first recorded gross weight and the second gross weight, it is possible to determine whether an accessory has been inserted or removed.

[0075] According to a further embodiment of the method, the position change is detected using a position detection device, in particular by a change in the state of an electrical contact, a magnetic contact, an inductance, a capacitance, by detecting a magnetic field, by detecting an identification feature from the element configured as a data carrier on the accessory, and / or by detecting a change in rotational speed or a temperature level. Furthermore, the net weight is calculated depending on a detected insertion or removal by adding the weight information to the gross weight or subtracting the weight information from the gross weight.

[0076] According to a further embodiment of the method, the state of a detection device is configured to detect an identification feature depending on the result of a comparison of the detected gross weight or the difference in amount with at least one reference value from the database.

[0077] Thus, based on the recorded gross weight or, where applicable, on the difference in amount between a first recorded gross weight and a second recorded gross weight, it can first be estimated whether one or more accessories are attached to the base unit before a recording process is commanded using the recording device.

[0078] According to a further embodiment of the method, the state of a detection device configured to detect an identification feature is queried if the comparison shows that the detected gross weight or the difference in amount corresponds to a reference value from the database, or that the detected gross weight or the difference in amount exceeds a reference value from the database.

[0079] This allows the insertion or removal of one or more accessories to be assessed prior to identification feature recording.

[0080] If, for example, the comparison shows that the gross weight or the difference in amount between a first recorded gross weight and a second recorded gross weight corresponds to a reference value from the database which corresponds to a sum of the respective net weights of several accessories, the recording device can be set to record several identification features.

[0081] If the comparison shows that a reference value is exceeded, it can be assumed that at least one accessory is used together with additional content or a filled accessory.

[0082] In this embodiment, absolute values ​​can be compared with each other, i.e., without considering a sign. Alternatively or additionally, signs can be compared to detect the insertion or removal of an accessory.

[0083] According to a further embodiment of the method, the detected identification feature is compared with at least one identification feature from a database and the retrieved weight information is weight information associated with an identification feature from the database that matches the detected identification feature.

[0084] Alternatively, the status of a detection device configured to detect an identification feature can be continuously queried. This allows the determination of whether and which accessories are used based on a comparison of the detected gross weight or the difference between a first detected gross weight and a second detected gross weight with a reference value from the database, as well as based on accessory identification.

[0085] In particular, if the reference values ​​are stored in the database in the context of a preparation instruction, it can be determined whether an accessory that is appropriate for the preparation instructions to be carried out is actually being used.

[0086] According to a further embodiment of the method, the net weight is output via a communication interface, wherein the net weight is output as machine-readable information for further use by a control device and / or as information for a user.

[0087] The method according to the invention and its embodiments have the same advantages as the kitchen appliance according to the invention and its embodiments.

[0088] The above-mentioned object is also achieved with a basic device for a food processor system, with a housing, with a weighing module configured to detect a gross weight and with a control device in that a detection device configured to detect an identification feature of at least one accessory is provided on the basic device, and in that the control device is configured to detect a change in position of at least one accessory relative to the basic device, to retrieve weight information corresponding to an identification feature detected by the detection device and to calculate a net weight on the basis of a gross weight detected by the weighing module and taking the weight information into account.

[0089] The above-mentioned object is also achieved with a control means for a kitchen appliance system or for a basic device for a kitchen appliance system, which is designed to carry out a method according to one of the above embodiments.

[0090] Furthermore, the above-mentioned object is achieved by a computer program comprising instructions whose execution on at least one processor of a control device of a kitchen appliance system according to one of the embodiments described above causes the implementation of a method according to an embodiment explained above.

[0091] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0092] In the drawing show Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of a food processor system, Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a method for automatic taring for a food processor system, and Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of a food processor system.

[0093] The kitchen machine system 2 from the Fig. 1 comprises a base unit 4, a first accessory 6 designed as a cooking vessel, and a second accessory 8 designed as a cooking vessel. The first accessory 6 and the second accessory 8 each have a data carrier 10, 12 on which an identification feature is stored as machine-readable information.

[0094] The base unit 4 comprises a housing 14, a weighing module 16, a control device 18, a communication interface 20, and a detection device 22. The weighing module 16 and the detection device 22 are each configured to detect a gross weight and to detect an identification feature. The weighing module 16, the detection device 22, and the communication interface 20 are each connected to the control device 18 via a bidirectional communication link 24, 26, 28.

[0095] The communication interface 20 is configured as a touch-sensitive screen and is capable of displaying user instructions as well as capturing user inputs and forwarding them to the control device 18.

[0096] The control device 18 is connected to an external database 30 with identification features and weight information via a comprehensive communication network 32, in this case via the Internet and at least partially via WiFi.

[0097] The food processor system 2 is shown in a state in which the second accessory part 8 receives a content 34 and in which the second accessory part 8 is inserted indirectly on the base unit 4 via the first accessory part 6.

[0098] The kitchen appliance system 2 and in particular the control device 18 are designed to carry out the method steps from the Fig. 2 furnished.

[0099] With the Fig. 2 an embodiment of a method for automatic taring for a food processor system 2 is shown with a flow chart.

[0100] In step 100, the food processor system 2 is started up. In step 102, a check is made to determine whether the "automatic tare" function is generally deselected or whether it is enabled for execution. If the "automatic tare" function is enabled, in step 200, the control device 18 sends a user request via the communication interface 20 as to whether an "automatic tare" function should be executed.

[0101] If a user input corresponding to a negative response is subsequently detected by the communication interface 20 (step 300), the control device 18 prevents, in a step 302, the execution of a method in which a net weight is automatically calculated on the basis of a detected gross weight and an identification feature.

[0102] If a user input is again recorded which corresponds to a positive answer (step 400), then a recording process is started with step 500 using the weighing module 16 and several gross weights are recorded one after the other (steps 502 and 504).

[0103] Parallel to the start of the recording process or in step 600, another user input is recorded via the communication interface 20, this time concerning a selection of a preparation instruction to be carried out from the database 30.

[0104] The temporal development of the gross weight is tracked by the control device 18 regularly forming a difference between a first gross weight B(t 1 ) recorded at a first time t 1 and a second gross weight B(t 2 ) recorded at a second, later time t 2 , comparing the absolute value |B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 )| of the formed difference B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 ) with reference values ​​stored in the database 30 and classifying the sign of the difference B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 ) as "positive" or "negative". Fig. 2 The detection at time t 1 and the detection at time t 2 are schematically illustrated by step 502 and step 504, respectively. The formation of the difference is shown by step 700, the comparison of the absolute value |B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 )| with reference values ​​is shown by step 702, and the classification of the sign of the difference B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 ) is shown by step 704.

[0105] In this case, at time t 1, neither an accessory nor a content was inserted or picked up on the basic unit 4. At time t 2, the kitchen appliance system 2 is in the Fig. 1 shown state in which the second accessory part 8 receives the contents 34 and is inserted together with the first accessory part 6 on the basic device 4.

[0106] Thus, at time t 1 , the weighing module 16 detects a first gross weight B(t 1 ) (step 502), which corresponds to the empty state of the base unit 4. The gross weight detected at time t 2 (step 504) corresponds to the sum of the value for the empty state of the base unit 4, the dead weight of the first accessory 6, the dead weight of the second accessory 8, and the dead weight of the contents 34 accommodated by the second accessory 8.

[0107] The difference B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 ) formed by the control device 18 (step 700) has a positive sign and an absolute value |B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 )|, which corresponds to the sum of the dead weight of the first accessory part 6, the dead weight of the second accessory part 8 and the dead weight of the contents 34 accommodated by the second accessory part 8.

[0108] In step 702, the control device 18 compares the absolute value |B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 )| with reference values ​​that have been stored in the database 30 by the manufacturer in the context of the initially selected preparation instructions (step 600). The comparison results in an exceedance of a reference value that corresponds to the sum of the respective dead weights of a cooking vessel and a steaming vessel.

[0109] In addition, or in step 704, the control device 18 classifies the sign of the formed difference B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 ) as "positive".

[0110] Based on the comparison result and the classification of the sign, the control device 18 recognizes (step 800) that a cooking vessel and a steaming vessel are presumably inserted together with a received content on the base unit 4. However, exceeding the reference value can also mean an increased filling of a single accessory or the insertion of another accessory not provided for in the preparation instructions.

[0111] To confirm that the suspected accessories 6, 8 are inserted, the control device 18 initiates a detection process by the detection device 22 in step 900. This detects the respective identification features of the first accessory 6 and the second accessory 8 and forwards them to the control device 18 (step 902). Subsequently (step 1000), the control device 18 compares the respective detected identification features with identification features from the database 30. From a match between the detected identification features and identification features from the database 30, the control device 18 recognizes in step 1002 that a cooking vessel and a cooking vessel are inserted on the base unit 4.

[0112] Furthermore, in step 1100, the control device 18 retrieves the weight information E(cooking vessel) and E(cooking vessel) which are assigned to the identification features of the first accessory 6 and the second accessory 8 in the database 30 which respectively match the detected identification features.

[0113] In the subsequent step 1200, the control device 18 calculates a net weight by subtracting the amounts of the retrieved weight information E(cooking vessel) and E(steaming vessel) from the calculated difference B(t 2 ) - B(t 1 ). The calculated net weight corresponds to the net weight of the contents accommodated by the second accessory 8.

[0114] In step 1300, the control device 18 outputs the calculated net weight via the communication interface 20 as a user instruction and, in step 1400, stores the calculated net weight together with an appropriate ingredient type for further processing in a further preparation step of the selected preparation instructions.

[0115] Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of a food processor system 202. Here, the food processor system 202 comprises a base unit 204, a first accessory 206 designed as a container, and a second accessory 208 designed as a mixing attachment. Each accessory 206, 208 is equipped with a data carrier 210, 212 on which a machine-readable identification feature is stored.

[0116] The base unit 204 comprises a housing 214, a control device 216, a detection device 218, a weighing module 220, a position detection device 222, a communication interface 224, and a storage means 226 for a database. The weighing module 220, the detection device 218, the communication interface 224, and the storage means 226 are each connected to the control device 216 via a bidirectional communication connection 228, 230, 232, 234.

[0117] The weighing module 220 and the detection device 218 are as in the embodiment of the Fig. 1 each configured to record a gross weight and to record an identification feature of at least one accessory. The communication interface 224 is configured as a screen 236 and a haptic element 238 and can be connected to a mobile user interface 242, such as a smartphone, via a wireless communication link 240.

[0118] The food processor system 202 and in particular the control device 216 are configured to carry out the following method.

[0119] After powering up the food processor system 202, the weighing module 220 records a gross weight in the empty state, with no accessory attached to the base unit 204, and the controller 216 stores this gross weight as "zero." Gross weights subsequently recorded in the empty state have a value equal to zero for the controller 216.

[0120] The following describes the case in which the first accessory 206, filled with potatoes 246 and assembled with the second accessory 208, is only inserted after filling and assembly on the basic device 204.

[0121] During the continuous detection process by the position detection device 222, the insertion of at least one accessory part on the base unit 204 is detected. In response, the control device 216 initiates a detection process by the detection device 218, which reads the respective data carriers 210, 212 arranged on the first accessory part 206 and the second accessory part 208. In doing so, the detection device 218 detects an identification feature and a piece of weight information. Based on the detected information, the control device 216 detects that the first accessory part 206 and the second accessory part 208 are inserted on the base unit 204 and the respective accessory type.

[0122] The control device 216 then compares the sum of the recorded weight information with a gross weight currently recorded by the weighing module 220. If the comparison shows that the gross weight exceeds the sum of the recorded weight information, the control device 216 calculates a net weight by subtracting the sum of the recorded weight information from the recorded gross weight.

[0123] If necessary, the control device 216 compares the calculated net weight with a target weight for an ingredient quantity from a preparation instruction in the database. In this example, the preparation instruction is a recipe for mashed potatoes with a target value of "1 kg" for the ingredient type "potatoes." If the comparison shows that the calculated net weight is less than the target weight, the control device 216 outputs a user notification via the communication interface 224 to refill potatoes in an amount corresponding to the difference between the calculated net weight and the target value, for example, "please refill 100g of potatoes."

[0124] Should the food processor system 202 perform the same process even though no potatoes have been added, the communication interface 224 may detect a user input corresponding to a confirmation that the accessories 206, 208 are empty, i.e., that none of the accessories 206, 208 inserted into the base unit 204 are holding any product or potatoes. Accordingly, the control device 216 stores the currently detected gross weight as a tare weight for a subsequent preparation process, if applicable.

Claims

1. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) - with a base unit (4, 204) having a housing (14, 214) and - with at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) having an identification feature, - wherein a weighing module (16, 220) configured to detect a gross weight is provided at the base unit (4, 204), and - wherein a control device (18, 216) is provided at the base unit (4, 204), characterized - in that a detection device (22, 218), which is configured to detect an identification feature of at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208), is provided at the base unit (4, 204), and - wherein the control device (18, 216) is configured to - detect a change in position of the at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) relative to the base unit (4, 204), - retrieve weight information corresponding to an identification feature detected by the detection device (22, 218); and - calculate a net weight based on a gross weight detected by the weighing module (16, 220) and taking into account the weight information.

2. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to claim 1, characterized - in that the control device (18, 216) is configured to determine an assembly or removal of at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) with respect to the base unit (4, 204) and / or with respect to a further accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) by - forming a difference between a first gross weight detected at a first time and a second gross weight detected at a second, later time, - comparing the amount of the difference formed with at least one reference value from a database (30, 226), and - classifying the sign of the difference formed as "positive" or "negative", and and - in that the control device (18, 216) is configured to calculate, in dependence on a detected assembly or removal, the net weight by adding the weight information to the second gross weight or subtracting the weight information from the second gross weight.

3. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to claim 1, characterized - in that a position detection device is provided at the base unit (4, 204) and is configured to detect an assembly or removal of at least one accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) with respect to the base unit (4, 204) and / or with respect to a further accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) and to forward this to the control device (18, 216), and - in that the control device (18, 216) is configured to calculate the net weight by adding the weight information to the detected gross weight or subtracting the weight information from the detected gross weight in dependence on a detected assembly or removal.

4. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the control device (18, 216) is configured to retrieve the respective corresponding weight information when a plurality of identification features is detected and to take this weight information together into account for calculating the net weight.

5. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized - in that the weight information corresponding to a detected identification feature is saved - together with the identification feature on the accessory (6, 8, 206, 208), - in a memory (226) of the control device (18, 216) or - in an external database (30) accessible by the control device (18, 216).

6. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized - in that the amount of weight information corresponding to a detected identification feature has been set up - by the accessory manufacturer or - as part of a calibration process by weighing the corresponding unfilled accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) using the weighing module (16, 220).

7. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized - in that the control device (18, 216) is configured to compare the net weight with a weight indication from a preparation instruction and to output a corresponding user instruction to add or reduce an ingredient quantity, the weight indication comprising a target weight for an ingredient quantity, and / or - in that the control device (18, 216) is configured to compare a detected gross weight with a weight indication from a preparation instruction and to output a corresponding user indication to add or reduce an ingredient quantity, the weight indication comprising at least weight information for a recommended accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) and a target weight for an ingredient quantity.

8. Kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the control device (18, 216) is configured to output the net weight via a communication interface (20, 224) as machine-readable information or as information for a user.

9. Method of automatic taring for a kitchen appliance system (2, 202) having a base unit (4, 204) and having an accessory (6, 8, 206, 208), in particular for a kitchen appliance system (2, 202) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, - wherein a change in position of the accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) relative to the base unit (4, 204) is detected, - wherein a gross weight and an identification feature of an accessory (6, 8, 206, 208) are detected, - wherein weight information corresponding to the detected identification feature is retrieved, and - wherein a net weight is calculated based on the gross weight and taking into account the weight information.

10. Method according to claim 9, - wherein the change in position is detected thereby - that a first gross weight is detected at a first time point and a second gross weight is detected at a second, later time point, - that the difference in amount between the first gross weight and the second gross weight is compared with at least one reference value from a database (30, 226), and - that the comparison results in an excess of at least one reference value by the difference in amount or a match, and - wherein the net weight is calculated based on the second gross weight and taking into account the weight information11. Method according to claim 9, - wherein the change in position is detected with a position detection device, in particular by changing the state of an electrical contact, a magnetic contact, an inductance, a capacitance, by detecting a magnetic field, by detecting an identification feature from the element formed as a data carrier at the accessory and / or by detecting a change in a rotational speed, a temperature level, and - wherein the net weight is calculated as a function of a detected assembly or removal by adding the weight information to the gross weight or subtracting the weight information from the gross weight.

12. Method according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the state of a detection device (22, 218) configured to detect an identification feature is interrogated as a function of the result of a comparison of the detected gross weight or the difference in amount with at least one reference value from the database (30, 226).

13. Method according to claim 12, - wherein the state of a detection device (22, 218) configured to detect an identification feature is interrogated in the event where the comparison results in that: - the detected gross weight or amount difference matches a reference value from the database (30, 226), or - the detected gross weight or difference in amount exceeds a reference value from the database (30, 226).

14. Method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, - wherein the detected identification feature is compared with at least one identification feature from a database (30, 226), and - wherein the retrieved weight information is weight information associated with an identification feature from the database (30, 226) that matches the detected identification feature.

15. Computer program comprising instructions, the execution of which on at least one processor of a control device of a kitchen appliance system according to any one of claims 1 to 8 causes a method according to any one of claims 9 to 14 to be carried out.