Automated Egg Conditioner

Abstract

To provide a suitable automated countertop egg cooker. [Solution] Provided are kitchen devices for cooking eggs using various cooking methods. For example, the kitchen device provided herein may include a storage component configured to store a plurality of raw eggs, an egg-breaking component configured to receive the plurality of raw eggs from the storage component and crack the raw eggs to form cracked eggs, a cooking component configured to receive the cracked eggs from the egg-breaking component and cook the cracked eggs to form cooked eggs, and a warming component configured to receive the cooked eggs from the cooking component and warm the cooked eggs.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 126,875, filed December 17, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to kitchen devices, and more particularly to kitchen devices for storing, preparing, and cooking eggs. [Background technology]

[0003] Kitchen devices can perform a variety of specialized functions. In many cases, kitchen devices can minimize the amount of time, effort, and cleanup required to prepare and cook food. Generally, specific kitchen devices aid users either by assisting in food preparation or by assisting in food cooking. A blender, one example of a conventional kitchen device, aids users in food preparation by liquefying, chopping, or pureeing food. Another type of conventional kitchen device, a food processor, also aids in food preparation in a similar manner. By liquefying, chopping, or pureeing, these devices reduce the amount of time and effort that would otherwise be required using manual methods.

[0004] Microwave ovens, on the other hand, are traditional kitchen devices that assist users by cooking food. Toaster ovens, slow cookers, and rice cookers are other examples of traditional kitchen devices that assist in food preparation. Each of these items reduces the amount of time and effort that would otherwise be required to cook using more traditional methods (e.g., using an oven and cooking over a fire). Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Provided are kitchen devices capable of storing, preparing, and cooking eggs. Unlike conventional kitchen devices designed to perform a single specific function, the kitchen devices provided herein can refrigerate raw eggs, store them until ready to use, prepare raw eggs by cracking them, and cook the cracked eggs using any of a variety of cooking methods. For example, the kitchen devices provided herein can cook eggs to form scrambled eggs, soft-boiled eggs, soft-boiled eggs, and omelets, among other variations. Thus, unlike conventional kitchen devices such as those described above, the kitchen devices described herein perform both food preparation and food cooking functions, further reducing the amount of time and effort required by a user to achieve a cooked food product. In some embodiments, the kitchen devices provided herein are also self-cleaning, which further reduces the amount of time and effort inherently involved in preparing and cooking food using conventional methods.

[0006] As explained above, in most cases, kitchen devices perform a single specific function. For example, a blender can prepare food by liquefying, chopping, or pureeing various types of food. However, a blender does not store food prior to blending, nor does it peel or slice / cut food prior to blending, if necessary, and in most cases, this does not achieve a final food product. A toaster exposes sliced ​​bread to heat to brown or toast the bread. However, a toaster does not store bread prior to toasting, nor does it slice bread. Also, a microwave oven cooks food, but it cannot store or prepare food prior to cooking. Therefore, most conventional kitchen devices are very limited in their capabilities. This limitation requires people to acquire more kitchen devices and / or kitchen tools to meet their needs. More kitchen devices generally translate to increased costs, reduced space in the kitchen (e.g., counter space or cabinet storage space taken up by the increased number of kitchen devices), and increased cleaning.

[0007] For example, to cook scrambled eggs using traditional methods, one would need to have storage space (i.e., space in a refrigerator) to hold the eggs until they were ready to be cooked, a tool to effectively crack the eggs, a cooking implement (e.g., frying pan, spatula) to cook the eggs, and a heat source (e.g., hot plate, stove) to cook the eggs on. Thus, cooking eggs using traditional methods requires at least four different types of devices / tools, each performing a different specialized function.

[0008] However, the kitchen devices provided herein can reduce the number of devices and tools needed to store, prepare, and cook food. Specifically, the kitchen devices provided herein can store, prepare, and cook eggs in several different ways, eliminating the need for external devices or tools. This also inherently reduces the amount of cleaning required. Instead of cleaning four or more kitchen devices and tools, a user now only needs to clean one when using a kitchen device provided herein. Furthermore, the kitchen devices provided herein can include a closed-loop cleaning system to eliminate or reduce the amount of cleaning a user must manually perform in the proper order to keep the device sanitary.

[0009] In some embodiments, what is provided is a kitchen device for cooking eggs, the kitchen device comprising: a storage component configured to store a plurality of raw eggs; an egg breaking component configured to receive the plurality of raw eggs from the storage component and crack the raw eggs to form cracked eggs; a cooking component configured to receive the cracked eggs from the egg breaking component and cook the cracked eggs to form cooked eggs; and a warming component configured to receive the cooked eggs from the cooking component and warm the cooked eggs.

[0010] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the plurality of raw eggs comprises 6 or 12 eggs.

[0011] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component is cooled to a temperature of 5-40°F for refrigerating multiple raw eggs.

[0012] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component comprises a tray configured to hold a plurality of raw eggs.

[0013] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the tray comprises a plurality of cups, each cup of the plurality of cups configured to hold one raw egg of the plurality of raw eggs.

[0014] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component comprises a transfer mechanism configured to transfer a raw egg from a first cup of the plurality of cups to a second cup of the plurality of cups.

[0015] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, a gravity mechanism is configured to transfer the raw egg from a second cup of the plurality of cups to an egg breaking component of the kitchen device.

[0016] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component comprises a transfer mechanism comprising a spiral coil configured to transfer the plurality of raw eggs from a first location of the storage component to a second location of the storage component.

[0017] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the spiral component is configured to transfer raw eggs from the storage component to an egg breaking component of the kitchen device.

[0018] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the egg breaking component is configured to position the raw egg in an optimal breaking orientation.

[0019] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the egg breaking component is configured to break a raw egg and separate the shell of the broken egg from the white and yolk of the broken egg.

[0020] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the cooking components include a hot plate and a spatula controlled by a multi-axis robotic control arm.

[0021] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the cooking component is configured to cook the white and yolk of the cracked egg using feedback from a vision detection system configured to communicate to the cooking component the position of the white and yolk relative to the spatula.

[0022] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the kitchen device comprises a controller, the controller configured to receive a request for a cooked egg type and to cook a raw egg according to the requested cooked egg type.

[0023] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the cooked egg type is one of scrambled, soft-boiled, or soft-boiled.

[0024] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the warming component is configured to warm the first cooked egg using recycled warm air from the cooking component.

[0025] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the kitchen device comprises a graphical user interface configured to allow a user to input a number of process parameters.

[0026] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the graphical user interface comprises a touch screen.

[0027] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the plurality of process parameters includes one or more of a cooking method, a cooking start time, or a cooking temperature.

[0028] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the kitchen device comprises a closed-loop cleaning system for cleaning the cooking surfaces of the kitchen device.

[0029] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the closed-loop cleaning system uses ultraviolet light to sanitize the cooking surfaces of the kitchen device.

[0030] In some embodiments, provided is a method of cooking eggs, the method comprising receiving a raw egg from a storage component of a kitchen device; positioning the raw egg in an optimal breaking position; cracking the raw egg in the optimal breaking position and separating the cracked egg shell from the cracked egg white and yolk; and cooking the cracked egg white and yolk on a temperature-controlled hot plate of the kitchen device.

[0031] In some embodiments of the method, the method includes warming the cooked eggs using warm air produced by and recycled from a temperature controlled hot plate.

[0032] In some embodiments of the method, positioning the raw egg in an optimal breaking position includes constraining the raw egg using two arms configured to mechanically advance toward each other and press against the raw egg.

[0033] In some embodiments of the method, cracking the raw egg comprises advancing a sharp object into the raw egg to puncture the shell of the raw egg.

[0034] In some embodiments of the method, the method includes receiving a request for a cooked egg type and cooking the egg whites and egg yolks of the cracked eggs according to the requested cooked egg type.

[0035] In some embodiments of the method, the cooked egg type is one of scrambled, soft-boiled, or soft-boiled.

[0036] In some embodiments of the method, the method includes storing a plurality of raw eggs in a storage component, the storage component being controlled at a temperature of between 5 and 40°F.

[0037] In some embodiments of the method, the plurality of raw eggs comprises 6 or 12 eggs.

[0038] In some embodiments of the method, the method includes receiving the raw egg from a storage component of the kitchen device includes gravitationally transferring the raw egg from the storage component.

[0039] In some embodiments of the method, the method includes inputting, by a user, a plurality of process parameters.

[0040] In some embodiments of the method, inputting, by the user, the plurality of process parameters includes indicating the plurality of process parameters using a touchscreen graphical user interface.

[0041] In some embodiments of the method, the plurality of process parameters includes one or more of a cooking method, a cooking start time, or a cooking temperature.

[0042] In some embodiments of the method, the method includes cleaning a cooking surface of the kitchen device.

[0043] In some embodiments of the method, cleaning the cooking surface of the kitchen device includes using ultraviolet light to sterilize the cooking surface.

[0044] In some embodiments, provided is a kitchen device for cooking eggs comprising a storage component, an egg breaking component, a cooking component, a warming component, and a controller configured to receive a request for a cooked egg type, and in response to receiving the request for a cooked egg type, move raw eggs from the storage component to the egg breaking component, crack the raw eggs so that the cooking component receives the cracked eggs, cook the cracked eggs in the cooking component, and move the cooked eggs to the warming component for warming.

[0045] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component is configured to store a plurality of raw eggs.

[0046] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component is cooled to a temperature of 5 to 40°F.

[0047] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component comprises a tray configured to hold a plurality of raw eggs.

[0048] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the tray comprises a plurality of cups, each cup of the plurality of cups configured to hold one raw egg of the plurality of raw eggs.

[0049] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the controller is configured to transfer a raw egg from a first cup of the plurality of cups to a second cup of the plurality of cups.

[0050] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, a gravity mechanism is configured to transfer the raw egg from a second cup of the plurality of cups to an egg breaking component of the kitchen device.

[0051] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the storage component comprises a transfer mechanism comprising a spiral coil configured to transfer the plurality of raw eggs from a first location of the storage component to a second location of the storage component.

[0052] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the spiral component is configured to transfer raw eggs from the storage component to an egg breaking component of the kitchen device.

[0053] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the egg breaking component is configured to position the raw egg in an optimal breaking orientation.

[0054] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the egg breaking component is configured to break a raw egg and separate the shell of the broken egg from the white and yolk of the broken egg.

[0055] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the cooking components include a hot plate and a spatula, and the controller is configured to control the spatula using a multi-axis robotic control arm.

[0056] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the cooking component is configured to cook the white and yolk of the cracked egg using feedback from a vision detection system configured to communicate to the cooking component the position of the white and yolk relative to the spatula.

[0057] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the cooked egg type is one of scrambled, soft-boiled, or soft-boiled.

[0058] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the warming component is configured to warm the cooked eggs using recycled warm air from the cooking component.

[0059] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the kitchen device comprises a graphical user interface configured to allow a user to input a number of process parameters.

[0060] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the graphical user interface comprises a touch screen.

[0061] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the plurality of process parameters includes one or more of a cooking method, a cooking start time, or a cooking temperature.

[0062] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the kitchen device comprises a closed-loop cleaning system for cleaning the cooking surfaces of the kitchen device.

[0063] In some embodiments of the kitchen device, the closed-loop cleaning system uses ultraviolet light to sanitize the cooking surfaces of the kitchen device. The present invention provides, for example, the following. (Item 1) 1. A kitchen device for cooking eggs, comprising: a storage component configured to store a plurality of raw eggs; an egg breaking component configured to receive the plurality of raw eggs from the storage component and break the raw eggs to form broken eggs; a cooking component configured to receive the cracked eggs from the egg-breaking component and cook the cracked eggs to form cooked eggs; a warming component configured to receive the cooked egg from the cooking component and warm the cooked egg; A kitchen device equipped with: (Item 2) Item 1. The kitchen device of item 1, wherein the plurality of raw eggs comprises 6 or 12 eggs. (Item 3) 3. The kitchen device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the storage component is cooled to a temperature of 5 to 40°F to refrigerate the plurality of raw eggs. (Item 4) 4. The kitchen device of any of items 1-3, wherein the storage component comprises a tray configured to hold the plurality of raw eggs. (Item 5) Item 5. The kitchen device of item 4, wherein the tray comprises a plurality of cups, each cup of the plurality of cups configured to hold one raw egg of the plurality of raw eggs. (Item 6) Item 6. The kitchen device of item 5, wherein the storage component comprises a transfer mechanism configured to transfer the raw egg from a first cup of the plurality of cups to a second cup of the plurality of cups. (Item 7) 7. The kitchen device of claim 6, wherein a gravity mechanism is configured to transfer the raw egg from a second cup of the plurality of cups to an egg-breaking component of the kitchen device. (Item 8) 4. The kitchen device of any of items 1-3, wherein the storage component comprises a transfer mechanism comprising a spiral coil configured to transfer the raw eggs of the plurality of raw eggs from a first location of the storage component to a second location of the storage component. (Item 9) Item 9. The kitchen device of item 8, wherein the spiral component is configured to transfer the raw eggs from the storage component to an egg breaking component of the kitchen device. (Item 10) 10. The kitchen device of any of items 1-9, wherein the egg cracking component is configured to position the raw egg in an optimal cracking orientation. (Item 11) 11. The kitchen device of any of items 1-10, wherein the egg cracking component is configured to crack the raw egg and separate the cracked egg shell from the cracked egg white and egg yolk. (Item 12) 12. The kitchen device of any of items 1-11, wherein the cooking component comprises a hot plate and a spatula controlled by a multi-axis robotic control arm. (Item 13) Item 13. The kitchen device of item 12, wherein the cooking component is configured to cook the egg white and the egg yolk of the cracked egg using feedback from a vision detection system configured to communicate to the cooking component the position of the egg white and the position of the egg yolk relative to the spatula. (Item 14) 14. The kitchen device of any of items 1-13, comprising a controller configured to receive a request for a cooked egg type and to cook the raw egg according to the requested cooked egg type. (Item 15) Item 15. The kitchen device of item 14, wherein the cooked egg type is one of scrambled, soft-boiled, or soft-boiled. (Item 16) 16. The kitchen device of any of items 1-15, wherein the warming component is configured to warm the first cooked egg using recycled warm air from the cooking component. (Item 17) 17. The kitchen device of any of items 1-16, wherein the kitchen device comprises a graphical user interface configured to allow a user to input a plurality of process parameters. (Item 18) Item 18. The kitchen device of item 17, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a touch screen. (Item 19) 19. The kitchen device of claim 17 or 18, wherein the plurality of process parameters include one or more of a cooking method, a cooking start time, or a cooking temperature. (Item 20) 20. A kitchen device according to any of items 1-19, comprising a closed-loop cleaning system for cleaning cooking surfaces of the kitchen device. (Item 21) Item 21. The kitchen device of item 20, wherein the closed-loop cleaning system uses ultraviolet light to sterilize cooking surfaces of the kitchen device. (Item 22) 1. A method of cooking eggs, comprising: receiving a raw egg from a storage component of a kitchen device; Positioning the raw egg at an optimal breaking position; cracking the raw egg at the optimal cracking location and separating the cracked egg shell from the cracked egg white and egg yolk; cooking the whites and yolks of the cracked eggs on a temperature-controlled hot plate of the kitchen device; A method comprising: (Item 23) 23. The method of claim 22, comprising warming the cooked eggs using warm air generated by and recycled from the temperature-controlled hot plate. (Item 24) 24. The method of claim 22 or 23, wherein positioning the raw egg in an optimal breaking position comprises constraining the raw egg using two arms configured to mechanically advance towards each other and press against the raw egg. (Item 25) 25. The method of any of items 22-24, wherein cracking the raw egg comprises advancing a sharp object into the raw egg to puncture the shell of the raw egg. (Item 26) 26. The method of any of items 22-25, further comprising receiving a request for a cooked egg type and cooking the egg whites and egg yolks of the cracked eggs according to the requested cooked egg type. (Item 27) 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the cooked egg type is one of scrambled, soft-boiled, or soft-boiled. (Item 28) 28. The method of any of items 22-27, comprising storing a plurality of raw eggs in the storage component, wherein the storage component is controlled at a temperature of 5 to 40°F. (Item 29) 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the plurality of raw eggs comprises 6 or 12 eggs. (Item 30) 30. The method of any of items 22-29, wherein receiving the raw egg from a storage component of a kitchen device comprises gravitationally transferring the raw egg from the storage component. (Item 31) 31. The method of any of items 22-30, comprising inputting a plurality of process parameters by a user. (Item 32) Item 32. The method of item 31, wherein inputting a plurality of process parameters by a user includes indicating the plurality of process parameters using a touchscreen graphical user interface. (Item 33) Item 33. The method of item 32, wherein the plurality of process parameters includes one or more of a cooking method, a cooking start time, or a cooking temperature. (Item 34) 34. The method of any of items 22-33, comprising cleaning the cooking surface of the kitchen device. (Item 35) Item 35. The method of item 34, wherein cleaning the cooking surface of the kitchen device comprises using ultraviolet light to sterilize the cooking surface. (Item 36) 1. A kitchen device for cooking eggs, comprising: a storage component; Cracked egg components; cooking components; a heating component; and A controller, the controller comprising: receiving a request for a cooked egg type; In response to receiving the request for the cooked egg type, transferring raw eggs from the storage component to the breaking component; cracking the raw egg so that the cooking component receives the cracked egg; cooking the cracked eggs in the cooking component; transferring the cooked eggs to the warming component for warming; a controller configured to: A kitchen device equipped with: (Item 37) Item 34. The kitchen device of item 33, wherein the storage component is configured to store a plurality of raw eggs. (Item 38) 35. The kitchen device of claim 33 or 34, wherein the storage component is cooled to a temperature of 5 to 40°F. (Item 39) Item 35. The kitchen device of any of items 34, wherein the storage component comprises a tray configured to hold the plurality of raw eggs. (Item 40) Item 37. The kitchen device of item 36, wherein the tray comprises a plurality of cups, each cup of the plurality of cups configured to hold one raw egg of the plurality of raw eggs. (Item 41) Item 38. The kitchen device of item 37, wherein the controller is configured to transfer the raw egg from a first cup of the plurality of cups to a second cup of the plurality of cups. (Item 42) Item 39. The kitchen device of item 38, wherein a gravity mechanism is configured to transfer the raw egg from a second cup of the plurality of cups to an egg-breaking component of the kitchen device. (Item 43) 43. The kitchen device of any of items 36-42, wherein the storage component comprises a transfer mechanism comprising a spiral coil configured to transfer raw eggs of the plurality of raw eggs from a first location of the storage component to a second location of the storage component. (Item 44) Item 44. The kitchen device of item 43, wherein the spiral component is configured to transfer the raw eggs from the storage component to an egg breaking component of the kitchen device. (Item 45) 45. The kitchen device of any of items 36-44, wherein the egg breaking component is configured to position the raw egg in an optimal breaking orientation. (Item 46) 46. ​​The kitchen device of any of items 36-45, wherein the egg cracking component is configured to crack the raw egg and separate the cracked egg shell from the cracked egg white and egg yolk. (Item 47) 47. The kitchen device of any of items 36-46, wherein the cooking components include a hot plate and a spatula, and the controller is configured to control the spatula using a multi-axis robotic control arm. (Item 48) 48. The kitchen device of any of items 36-47, wherein the cooking component is configured to cook the egg white and the egg yolk of the cracked egg using feedback from a vision detection system configured to communicate to the cooking component the position of the egg white and the position of the egg yolk relative to the spatula. (Item 49) 49. The kitchen device of claim 36-48, wherein the cooked egg type is one of scrambled, soft-boiled, or soft-boiled. (Item 50) 50. The kitchen device of any of items 36-49, wherein the warming component is configured to warm the cooked eggs using recycled warm air from the cooking component. (Item 51) 51. A kitchen device according to any of items 36-50, wherein the kitchen device comprises a graphical user interface configured to allow a user to input a plurality of process parameters. (Item 52) Item 52. The kitchen device of item 51, wherein the graphical user interface comprises a touch screen. (Item 53) 53. The kitchen device of claim 51 or 52, wherein the plurality of process parameters include one or more of a cooking method, a cooking start time, or a cooking temperature. (Item 54) 54. A kitchen device according to any of items 36-53, comprising a closed-loop cleaning system for cleaning the cooking surfaces of the kitchen device. (Item 55) Item 55. The kitchen device of item 54, wherein the closed-loop cleaning system uses ultraviolet light to sterilize cooking surfaces of the kitchen device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0064] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0065] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A shows a kitchen device for cooking eggs, according to some embodiments.

[0066] [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B shows a kitchen device for cooking eggs, according to some embodiments.

[0067] [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A illustrates a storage component of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments.

[0068] [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B shows a storage component of a kitchen device comprising a spiral coil mechanism, according to some embodiments.

[0069] [Figure 2C] FIG. 2C shows a storage component of a kitchen device that includes a conveyor belt mechanism, according to some embodiments.

[0070] [Figure 3A]FIG. 3A shows an egg cracking component of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments.

[0071] [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B shows an egg cracking component of the kitchen device, according to some embodiments.

[0072] [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C shows an egg cracking component of the kitchen device, according to some embodiments.

[0073] [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A shows cooking components of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments.

[0074] [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B illustrates cooking components of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments.

[0075] [Figure 4C] FIG. 4C shows a cooking component of a kitchen device that includes a rotating hot plate, according to some embodiments.

[0076] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 illustrates a heating component of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments.

[0077] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 provides a method of cooking eggs, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0078] Detailed Description Provided are kitchen devices that can store, prepare, and cook eggs. The kitchen devices provided herein streamline the egg cooking process by minimizing the number of devices / tools needed to store, prepare, and cook eggs. This streamlining also reduces the amount of cleanup required (due, in part, to fewer devices / tools being needed) and reduces the amount of storage space dedicated to the devices / tools needed to cook eggs (fewer devices / tools translates to less counter, drawer, and cabinet space being taken up).

[0079] The kitchen device provided herein includes four components: a storage component, an egg cracking component, a cooking component, and a warming component. Each component is dedicated to a specific function of the process. For example, the storage component stores raw eggs. A user can insert multiple raw eggs into the storage component for storage until preparation and cooking is desired. Thus, the storage component is temperature controlled.

[0080] The egg breaking component receives the raw eggs from the storage component and prepares the raw eggs for cooking. For example, the egg breaking component can break the eggs and separate the egg shells from the whites (i.e., egg whites) and yolks (i.e., egg yolks). The egg breaking component can include a container for collecting waste materials such as egg shells. In some embodiments, the egg breaking component can also separate the egg whites from the egg yolks. For example, this separation can be selected for users who desire their cooked food products to contain only egg whites and no egg yolks (e.g., for users desiring a lower cholesterol option). Thus, the container can also collect the egg yolks in some embodiments.

[0081] The cooking component receives cracked eggs from the egg-breaking component and cooks the eggs. In some embodiments, the kitchen devices provided herein can cook eggs using any of a variety of methods. A user can select the various methods used to cook their eggs. For example, the cooking component may receive eggs and cook them soft-boiled according to user input selecting soft-boiled as the cooking method. Other cooking methods may include, for example, scrambled or soft-boiled.

[0082] In some embodiments, the kitchen devices provided herein include a warming component for warming cooked eggs. After the eggs are cooked in the cooking component, they can be held and warmed in the warming component until a user retrieves them from the device.

[0083] Other features of the kitchen devices provided herein may include a graphical user interface, a self-cleaning feature, and various user-controlled process parameters.

[0084] Described below are each component of the kitchen devices provided herein, including the storage component, egg cracking component, cooking component, warming component, cleaning process, graphical user interface, and methods for cooking eggs using the kitchen devices provided herein.

[0085] Egg Cooking Kitchen Device 1A illustrates a kitchen device 100A according to some embodiments provided herein. As shown, the kitchen device 100A includes a storage component 102A, an egg cracking component 104A, a cooking component 106A, and a warming component 108A.

[0086] In some embodiments, storage component 102A is configured to receive and store one or more eggs on tray 110A. In some embodiments, tray 110A includes a multidimensional array of one or more cups 112A. In some embodiments, each cup 112A is configured to receive and hold a single egg. In some embodiments, storage component 102A comprises a spiral coil configured to hold one or more eggs. Storage components comprising spiral coils are described in more detail with respect to FIG. 2B.

[0087] The storage component 102A may include temperature control for optimal storage of eggs. For example, raw eggs in the storage component 102A may be refrigerated. The storage component 102A may also include an insertion door with an open / close sensor and monitoring features. This can help maintain the temperature within the storage component while also allowing a user to insert eggs into the storage component.

[0088] Other features of the storage component may include a transfer mechanism. For example, the transfer mechanism may be configured to transfer a raw egg from the first cup 112A to the second cup 112A. The storage component 102A may also include features such as a sensor configured to sense and indicate when a raw egg is present in the tray 110A and / or which cup 112A of the tray 110A comprises a raw egg at any given moment, and an output mechanism 118A configured to transfer the raw egg from the second cup 112A to the egg cracking component 103A. Each of these features of the storage component 102A is described in more detail with respect to storage components 200A, 200B, and 200C of FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C, respectively.

[0089] Egg breaking component 104A is configured to receive raw eggs from storage component 102A, orient the eggs to an optimal breaking position, and break the raw eggs. The mechanism for receiving raw eggs from storage component 102A may include output mechanism 118A of storage component 102A. For example, transporting eggs from storage component 102A to egg breaking component 104A may include a ramp. Other suitable transfer mechanisms may include a belt, a paddle advancement system, or a helical coil (e.g., helical coil 280 of FIG. 2B, which is also configured to advance eggs from one position of the storage component to another position of the storage component).

[0090] Egg cracking component 104A is configured to prepare one or more eggs prior to cooking. For example, egg cracking component 104A may include a mechanism for cracking one or more eggs and separating the cracked egg shells from the egg white and yolk of the cracked eggs. The egg cracking mechanism may be configured to crack multiple eggs at a time, or it may be configured to crack one egg at a time. In some embodiments, the egg cracking mechanism may be configured to crack multiple eggs by sequentially cracking each egg of the multiple eggs.

[0091] Other features of the egg breaking component 104A can include an egg positioning device and a waste receptacle for collecting waste by-products (e.g., broken egg shells). Each of these features of the egg breaking component 104A is described in more detail in Figures 3A-3C.

[0092] Cooking component 106A is configured to cook one or more cracked eggs. The one or more cracked eggs are received by cooking component 106A from egg-breaking component 104A. In cooking component 106A, the one or more cracked eggs may be cooked in any one of several ways. For example, the one or more cracked eggs may be scrambled, cooked soft-boiled on both sides, cooked soft-boiled on one side, etc. Cooking component 106A may include spatula 132A and hot plate 130A to cook the one or more eggs. In some embodiments, cooking component 106A may be configured to cook the one or more eggs according to a user input identifying one of a plurality of cooking methods preferred by the user. In some embodiments, the spatula may be configured to perform actions specific to the cooking method selected by the user. The actions performed by spatula 132A may vary for each cooking method. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to control the type of cooking. For example, the controller may use a closed-loop system to control the type of cooking of the eggs. The closed-loop system may include a feedback loop including a vision system or a system that otherwise indicates the position of the tool and the eggs. The feedback loop may have the ability to determine the degree to which the eggs are "cooked," for example, using an infrared heat mechanism or a color recognition algorithm.

[0093] Cooking component 106A is illustrated in more detail in Figures 4A-4C.

[0094] The warming component 108A is configured to receive cooked eggs from the cooking component 106A and warm the cooked eggs. Cooked eggs may be received from the egg cracking component 106A for warming. A user can also receive cooked eggs from a kitchen device at the warming component 108A. In some embodiments, the warming component 108A reuses the warm air generated by the cooking component 106A to warm the cooked eggs.

[0095] Warming component 108A is illustrated in more detail in FIG.

[0096] 1B illustrates a kitchen device 100B according to some embodiments provided herein. As shown, the kitchen device 100B includes a storage component 102B, an egg cracking component 104B, a cooking component 106B, and a warming component 108B.

[0097] The storage component 102B can include any of the features described with respect to the storage component 102A. For example, the storage component 102B can include a tray 110B and a plurality of cups 112B. Each cup 112B in the tray 110B can be separated by teeth attached to a conveyor belt. This feature is described in more detail with respect to FIG. 2C.

[0098] Egg breaking component 104B may include any of the features described with respect to egg breaking component 104A. Egg breaking component 104B receives eggs to be broken from storage component 102B using output mechanism 118B.

[0099] Cooking component 106B can include any of the features described with respect to cooking component 106A, including hot plate 130B and spatula 132B.

[0100] Warming component 108B can include any of the features described with respect to warming component 108A.

[0101] Storage Components FIG. 2A illustrates a storage component 200A of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments. As shown, the storage component 200A includes a tray 210A comprising a multidimensional array of multiple cups 212A. Each cup 212A is configured to hold a single egg in a specific orientation. Cup 214A, also referred to herein as a launching cup, is shown in FIG. 2A holding an egg. In some embodiments, the tray 210A may be fixed in place. The tray 210A may also be removable. For example, the tray 210A may be removable from the storage component 200A using an access door. A removable tray 210A may allow a user to remove the tray 210A, place multiple raw eggs in the tray 210A, and place the tray 210A back into the storage component 200A of the kitchen device. In some embodiments, the tray 210A is configured to receive the eggs in a certain orientation for processing. For example, successful preparation and cooking of eggs may require the eggs to be received by the device 200A in a certain orientation.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 2A , the tray 210A includes six cups 212A. However, the tray 210A may include more or less than six cups 212A. For example, the tray 210A may include 2, 3, 6, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, 18, or 23 cups 212A. In addition, the tray 210A is shown with a 2×3 array of cups 212A. However, the array configuration may also be any of 1×6, 2×3, 3×2, or 6×1 for a tray 210A with six cups. Other configurations may include 1×12, 2×6, 3×3, 3×3, 6×2, or 12×1 for a tray 210A with 12 cups. Other cup array configurations may also be utilized.

[0103] In some embodiments, the storage component 200A may be temperature controlled. For example, the storage component may include a cooling or refrigeration system configured to keep raw eggs cool until they are ready to be cooked. For example, the storage component 200A may be cooled to a temperature between 0 and 30°F. In some embodiments, the storage component 200A may be cooled to a temperature below 30°F, below 35°F, below 30°F, below 25°F, below 20°F, below 15°F, below 10°F, or below 5°F. In some embodiments, the storage component 200A may be cooled to a temperature above 5°F, above 10°F, above 15°F, above 20°F, above 25°F, above 30°F, or above 35°F. In some embodiments, the storage component 200A may be cooled to a temperature between 5 and 30°F.

[0104] Each cup 212A may be configured to hold and store a single raw egg in an orientation. Geometrically, an egg is oval with a single axis of symmetry. Thus, the oval shape of an egg has two ends: a wide end and a narrow end. As shown, each cup 212A of tray 210A is configured to hold an egg in an orientation such that the narrow end is upright and the wide end faces downward within the cup. In some embodiments, cup 212A may be configured to hold an egg with either end (narrow or wide) in an upright position. In some embodiments, cup 212A may be configured to hold a raw egg lying on its side.

[0105] In some embodiments, the kitchen device may be configured to track the number of eggs present in tray 210A. For example, if 12 eggs were originally placed in tray 210A and two were processed, thus leaving only 10 eggs, the kitchen device may be configured to account for each egg in tray 210A at any given time and communicate to the user the number of eggs remaining / present. In this way, the user can determine when they may need to replenish the egg supply in tray 210A. Suitable examples of sensors may include pressure sensors, laser sensors, etc. A display, such as a graphical user interface, may be included on the exterior of the kitchen device that displays the number of eggs present in tray 210A.

[0106] Tray 210A includes a mechanism configured to transfer eggs from one cup to another. In some embodiments, the transfer mechanism may be configured to move eggs from a non-firing cup to firing cup 214A. In some embodiments, an egg may need to progress through multiple cups one by one until it reaches firing cup 214A.

[0107] 2A includes multiple ejectors 216A. Each cup 212A is equipped with a single ejector 216A. The ejector 216A is configured to rise from the base of a first cup 212A into the interior space of the first cup 212A, push an egg in the first cup 212A up, over the edge of the first cup 212A, and into an adjacent second cup 212A. Each cup 212A may include a hole in its base to allow the ejector 216A to retract from the interior space of the cup 212A when not in use and to advance into the interior space of the cup 212A when an egg in the cup 212A is to be transferred to an adjacent cup 212A.

[0108] In some embodiments, each ejector 216A is positioned such that it is configured to transfer an egg in the cup 212A associated with that ejector 216A to a predetermined adjacent second cup 212A. For example, tray 210A may include six cups 212A, i.e., labeled A, B, C, D, E, and F. Cups 212A may include launching cups 214A. To pass from storage component 200A to a cooking component of the kitchen device (e.g., cooking component 300A, 300B, or 300C of FIG. 3A, 3B, or 3C, respectively), an egg in cup D may not be transferred directly from cup D to cup A. Instead, a series of ejectors 216A, one in each cup 212A, may be configured to transfer the egg from cup D to cup A in a stepwise manner. Thus, the egg in cup D may need to proceed to cup A by first passing through cups C and B.

[0109] As described above, one cup 212A includes a launch cup 214A. The launch cup 214A is located adjacent to an exit mechanism 218A. The exit mechanism 218A is configured to receive eggs from the storage component 200A and transfer them using gravity or mechanical means to an egg breaking component (e.g., egg breaking component 300A, 300B, or 300C of FIG. 3A, 3B, or 3C, respectively). In some embodiments, the exit 218A may include a ramp that allows the eggs to slide from the storage component 200A, follow the ramp, and into the egg breaking component of the kitchen fixture. Other suitable exit mechanisms may include a belt, a paddle advancement system, or a helical coil.

[0110] Additionally, the kitchen devices described herein are configured to process and cook different types of eggs. For example, the kitchen devices provided herein may be configured to process eggs from different animals (i.e., animals other than chickens). In some embodiments, the kitchen devices provided herein may be configured to process chicken eggs of different sizes.

[0111] FIG. 2B illustrates a storage component 200B that includes a transfer mechanism having a helical coil 280. The helical coil 280 is configured to advance an egg from one position within the storage component 200B to a second position within the storage component 200B. In some embodiments, the helical coil 280 may be configured to advance an egg toward a launch position 284. As shown in the figure, the storage component 200B includes two launch positions 284. The egg at the launch position 284 is the next egg to be transferred to an egg breaking component (e.g., egg breaking component 300A, 300B, or 300C of FIG. 3A, 3B, or 3C). In some embodiments, an end 282 of the helical coil 280 may be configured to transfer the egg from the storage component 200B to an egg breaking component (e.g., egg breaking component 300 of FIG. 3). The storage component 200B of FIG. 2B may also include any of the features described above with reference to the storage component 200A of FIG. 2A.

[0112] 2C shows a storage component 200C according to some embodiments, which may include any of the features described with respect to storage component 200A of FIG. 2A and / or storage component 200B of FIG. 2B. As shown, storage component 200C may include a plurality of tines 286 attached to a conveyor belt 288. The space between two adjacent tines can accommodate a single egg. As conveyor belt 288 moves along the length of storage component 200C, any egg held between two tines 286 moves as well.

[0113] Egg cracking components FIG. 3A shows an egg cracking component 300A of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments. The egg cracking component 300A includes an egg cracking mechanism, including an egg positioning device, a mechanical constraint pusher 324A, and an egg cracker 322A. Specifically, the egg positioning device includes two arms 320A. Once an egg 350A enters the egg cracking component 300A, it is positioned within the egg positioning device. The arms 320A of the egg positioning device advance toward the egg 350A to help properly orient and hold the egg 350A in place. The mechanical constraint pusher 324A is also configured to advance toward the egg 350A to help hold the egg 350A in place for cracking.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 3A , egg 350A is positioned so that its axis of symmetry extends parallel to the direction in which egg cracker 322A extends. Specifically, egg cracker 322A is configured to advance toward egg 350A in a direction parallel to the axis of symmetry of egg 350A. Thus, arm 320A is configured to gently push against a location on egg 350A adjacent one of the two ends of egg 350A (i.e., the narrow end or the wide end), and mechanically constrained pusher 324A is configured to gently push against a side of the egg. Egg cracker 322A is configured to advance toward egg 350A and crack egg 350A at a location along the side of egg 350A opposite the side held in place by mechanically constrained pusher 324A.

[0115] As described, egg cracking device 322A is configured to mechanically advance toward egg 350A and forcibly break the shell of egg 350A, exposing the egg white and yolk of egg 350A. In some embodiments, egg cracking device 322A may comprise a blade or other sharp object that may pierce the shell of egg 350A. For example, egg cracking device 322A may comprise a blade or awl configured to pierce and crack the shell of egg 350A. In some embodiments, egg cracking device 322A may be configured to spread the cracked shell open, allowing the egg white and / or yolk of egg 350A to separate and / or fall from the shell of egg 350A. In some embodiments, the egg positioning device is configured to hold and retain the cracked or broken shell while allowing the egg white and / or yolk to separate from the shell. In some embodiments, egg cracker 322A may comprise a sharp object having at least two components configured to separate to retain the cracked shell and allow the egg white and egg yolk to be transferred to a cooking component (e.g., cooking component 400A, 400B, or 400C of FIG. 4A, 4B, or 4C, respectively). For example, the two components of the sharp object may spread apart in a direction perpendicular to the forward direction (i.e., the direction in which egg cracker 322A advances toward egg 350A), releasing the cracked shell and achieving a cracked and separated egg 350A (i.e., the egg white and egg yolk separated from the cracked shell). The two components of the sharp object of egg cracking device 322A may be configured such that egg cracking device 322A advances toward and punctures egg 350A when the two components are flush together, and spreads apart after egg cracking device 322A cracks egg 350A and separates a portion of cracked egg 350A. In some embodiments, egg cracking component 300A is configured to crack egg 350A and allow the egg white and / or yolk of the cracked egg to fall downward from the cracked eggshell onto a cooking component (e.g., cooking component 400A, 400B, or 400C in FIGS. 4A, 4B, or 4C, respectively).In some embodiments, egg breaking component 300A is configured to break egg 350A and allow the egg white and / or yolk of the broken egg to fall into a holder configured to then transfer the egg white and / or yolk to a cooking component (e.g., cooking component 400 of FIG. 4).

[0116] In some embodiments, egg cracking device 322A may include a closed-loop control system configured to independently determine and terminate the termination conditions for egg white and / or yolk removal using a vision-based system algorithm. For example, the closed-loop control system may be a proportional-integral-derivative-based control system. Additionally, egg cracking component 300A may be configured to move back and forth (e.g., in a forward and reverse motion) to shake out the egg contents (i.e., the egg white and yolk) and effectively separate the egg white and / or yolk from the eggshell. This back and forth motion may also be achieved using the closed-loop control system.

[0117] In some embodiments, the kitchen device includes a monitoring system that can indicate a situation in which the operation of egg breaking component 300A is incorrect. For example, the monitoring system may be able to detect that no eggs are present in the egg positioning device. In this scenario, perhaps the transfer of an egg from a storage component (e.g., storage component 200A, 200B, or 200C of FIGS. 2A, 2B, or 2C, respectively) to egg breaking component 300A has failed. In some embodiments, the monitoring system may detect that an undesirable egg break has occurred. For example, egg 350A may not have been broken sufficiently to allow the egg white and yolk to be released from egg 350A, or the shell of egg 350A may have been over-cracked, allowing part of the shell to be transferred to the cooking component along with the egg white and yolk. In some embodiments, the monitoring system may detect a “bad” egg. For example, the monitoring system may determine that an egg is “bad” if it is not the proper shape or size. In some embodiments, the monitoring device may detect that egg 350A is not in the proper orientation for optimal breaking. In some embodiments, a vision-based monitoring system may be configured to identify egg size, over- or under-cracked eggs, whether the yolk and albumen are properly separated from the shell, "bad" eggs, and / or eggs that are not properly oriented for optimal cracking.

[0118] In some embodiments, the egg breaking component 300A includes a trash receptacle. For example, the shells of the cracked eggs 350A may be collected in the trash receptacle and removed from the kitchen device. In some embodiments, the shells of the cracked eggs 350A may be the only material collected by the trash receptacle. In some embodiments, one of the egg white or egg yolk may be collected by the trash receptacle for removal from the kitchen device. In some embodiments, a user may manually remove the trash receptacle from the kitchen fixture, empty it, and reinstall it back into the kitchen device. For example, the trash receptacle may include a removable and reinsertable drawer. In some embodiments, the trash receptacle may be ejected from the kitchen device in response to a user input instructing the trash receptacle to be ejected. In some embodiments, the trash receptacle may be dishwasher safe.

[0119] In some embodiments, the cracked shell of egg 350A (and any other material determined to be trash) may be transferred to a trash receptacle using an ejector ramp. The ejector ramp may be configured to slide, push, or otherwise direct the cracked shell of egg 350A into the trash receptacle using gravity and / or mechanical force. For example, the ejector ramp may be configured to receive and direct the cracked shell into the trash receptacle via gravity. In some embodiments, the cracked shell of egg 350A may be configured to drop from a mechanically restrained pusher onto a surface, and the ejector ramp may be configured to slide or push the cracked shell from the surface into the trash receptacle. In some embodiments, the cracked shell of egg 350A may be configured to fall from a mechanical restraint pusher onto the surface of a hot plate (e.g., hot plate 430A or 430B or 430C of FIG. 4A, 4B, or 4C, respectively), and a spatula (e.g., spatula 432A or 432B of FIG. 4A or 4B, respectively) may be configured to push the cracked shell into a waste container.

[0120] Figure 3B shows an egg cracking component 300B of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments. Egg cracking component 300B can include any of the features of egg cracking component 300A described above. Specifically, Figure 3B shows egg 350B ready to be cracked within egg cracking component 300B, which includes arm 320B, egg cracker 322B, and mechanical constraint pusher 324B. Each of these components can operate in a manner similar to that described with respect to egg cracking component 300A of Figure 3A.

[0121] Figure 3C shows an egg cracking component 300C of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments. The egg cracking component 300C can include any of the features of the egg cracking components 300A or 300B described above. As shown, Figure 3C shows an egg 350C ready to be cracked within the egg cracking component 300C, which includes an arm 320C, an egg cracker 322C, and a mechanical constraint pusher 324C. Each of these components can operate in a manner similar to that described with respect to the egg cracking component 300A of Figure 3A and / or the egg cracking component 300B of Figure 3B.

[0122] Cooking components 4A shows a cooking component 400A of a kitchen device. Specifically, the cooking component 400A includes a hot plate 430A and a spatula 432A. The spatula 432A is coupled to a control device 434A configured to control the movement of the spatula 432A.

[0123] The control device 434A may include a multi-axis robotic control arm or gantry to move the spatula 432A in various directions. For example, the movement of the spatula 432A may vary with different types of cooking methods (e.g., scrambled, soft-boiled, soft-boiled). The control device is configured to mechanically direct the movement of the spatula 432A. For example, the control device 434A may be configured to rotate the spatula 432A such that the spatula 432A rotates along an axis extending along the length of the spatula handle. The control device 434A may also be configured to move the spatula 432A up and down in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the hotplate 430A surface so that the blade of the spatula 432A contacts the hotplate 430A when the spatula is in the down position. The control device 434A may be configured to move the spatula 432A to any position between a lowest position (i.e., the spatula 432A contacts the hot plate 430A) and a highest position. The control device 434A may also be configured to move the spatula 432A in a side-to-side motion in a direction parallel to the plane of the hot plate 430A surface. In some embodiments, this side-to-side motion of the spatula 432A may be used to push the cracked shells of the cracked eggs into a trash can. In some embodiments, the spatula 432A may be removable from the control device 434A. For example, a user may remove the spatula 432A from the control device 434A to clean it. In some embodiments, the spatula 432A may be dishwasher safe. Additionally, although the cooking component 400A of FIG. 4 includes a spatula 432A, other suitable tools or devices may be used to manipulate the eggs to achieve a desired cooked egg product.

[0124] Hot plate 430A includes a cooking surface. In some embodiments, the cooking surface may be completely flat and level (i.e., as shown in FIG. 4A ). In some embodiments, the cooking surface may include a depression for receiving and cooking an egg. For example, the cooking surface may be flat along the edges of the surface and include a shallow depression in the middle of hot plate 430A to receive the egg (i.e., the egg white and / or egg yolk) to be cooked. The depression may also help prevent the egg white and / or egg yolk from sliding along and potentially off the cooking surface. The depression may also help contain the egg during the cooking process, ensuring that maximum egg white and / or egg yolk is handled by spatula 432A. In some embodiments, the cooking surface of hot plate 430A includes a raised edge along one or more edges of the cooking surface, which may help prevent the contents of the egg from falling off the edge of hot plate 430A.

[0125] Eggs may be cooked on hotplate 430A using the temperature controls of hotplate 430A and physical manipulation with spatula 432A. In some embodiments, the temperature of hotplate 430A may be programmed to correspond to a specific cooking method. Thus, the temperature or temperature profile may vary for each cooking method. In some embodiments, the temperature of hotplate 430A may remain constant for the duration of cooking. In some embodiments, the temperature of hotplate 430A may vary throughout the duration of cooking to correspond to different stages of the cooking cycle.

[0126] In some embodiments, the cooking component 400A may be configured to cook the egg according to feedback from a detection system configured to detect and communicate to the cooking component 400A the position of one or more components of the kitchen device. For example, a vision-based detection system may be used to detect and communicate to the cooking component 400A the position of the egg, the orientation or shape of the egg, the position of the spatula 432A, etc. This feedback may also determine the movement of the spatula 432A (i.e., based on the position, orientation, and / or shape of the egg). Additionally, the cooking component 400A may be configured to determine the degree to which the egg is "cooked," for example, using an infrared heat mechanism or a color recognition algorithm.

[0127] In some embodiments, a kitchen device according to embodiments described herein may include a controller. The controller may be configured to receive a request from a user for a cooked egg type (e.g., soft-boiled, scrambled, soft-boiled). In response to receiving the request for a cooked egg type, the controller may be configured to transfer the raw egg from a storage component to an egg-breaking component and crack the raw egg such that a cooking component receives the cracked egg. In some embodiments, the controller may then be configured to cook the cracked egg in the cooking component and transfer the cooked egg to a warming component for warming.

[0128] In some embodiments, the hot plate 430A and / or the spatula 432A may include a non-stick surface. The non-stick surface may reduce friction during cooking, minimize the amount of cleaning required, and add additional flavor to the cooked eggs. For example, the non-stick surface may be achieved using a surface coating. Suitable non-stick surface coatings may include a fluoropolymer coating or a ceramic coating. Other methods of forming a non-stick surface may include a lubrication system configured to lubricate the cooking surface of the hot plate 430A and prevent sticking. For example, the lubrication system may include a refillable storage container for a liquid fat extract and a method for delivering the liquid fat extract to the hot plate 430A. In some embodiments, the method for delivering the liquid fat may be a gravity method or a pump. In some embodiments, the non-stick surface may be achieved using porous absorption of oil into an iron-based metal. For example, a cast iron material may be used for the hot plate 430A.

[0129] In some embodiments, the cooking component 400A may include a gutter system to catch and contain grease overflow and / or by-products from the cooking process and for easy grease / by-product removal and cleanup. The gutter system may be sloped downward toward the trash receptacle to allow waste to flow into the trash receptacle. In some embodiments, the gutter system may include a non-stick or slippery coating. The gutter system may also surround some or all of the cooking surface such that the gutter system is configured to catch debris that falls off the cooking surface and transport it to the trash receptacle. In some embodiments, a rinse system may also be included to aid in cleaning and removing any buildup. The rinse system may include spray nozzles to assist in moving cooking overflow and / or waste by-products into the trash receptacle.

[0130] Once the eggs are cooked, they may be transferred to a warming component. In some embodiments, transfer from the cooking component 400A to the warming component may involve gravity and / or mechanical force.

[0131] Once the eggs are cooked on the hot plate 430A of the cooking component 400A, they can be transferred to a warming component (eg, warming component 500 of FIG. 5) for warming and collection by a user.

[0132] 4B shows a cooking component 400B of a kitchen device, according to some embodiments. Cooking component 400B can include any of the features described above with respect to cooking component 400A. As shown, cooking component 400B can include a hot plate 430B, a spatula 432B, and a control device 434B. Each of these components can include any of the features described above with respect to hot plate 430A, spatula 432A, and / or control device 434A.

[0133] FIG. 4C depicts cooking component 400C, which includes a hot plate 430C. Hot plate 430C differs from hot plate 430A of FIG. 4A in that it is round and configured to rotate about a central axis. In some embodiments, hot plate 430C also includes raised edges to help prevent egg yolk and / or egg white from sliding off the surface of hot plate 430C during cooking. Hot plate 430C of FIG. 4C may include any of the features of hot plates 430A or 430B of FIGS. 4A or 4B, respectively.

[0134] Heating Components 5 shows a warming component 500 of a kitchen device according to some embodiments herein. The warming component 500 is configured to receive cooked eggs from a cooking component (e.g., cooking component 500 of FIG. 5), keep the cooked eggs warm, and transport the cooked eggs to a user for consumption. The warming component includes a warming tray 530 and an access door.

[0135] The warming tray 530 is temperature controlled to keep the cooked eggs warm until the user removes them from the kitchen device. In some embodiments, the warming tray 530 may keep the cooked eggs warm by recycling or retaining warm air from the cooking process of the kitchen device. In some embodiments, the warming tray 530 may keep the cooked eggs warm by recycling or retaining temperature-treated air from the heating / cooling system of a storage component (e.g., storage component 200A, 200B, or 200C of FIGS. 2A, 2B, or 2C, respectively). In some embodiments, the warming component 500 may include its own dedicated heating element, which may be used exclusively without involving the functional sequence of the rest of the device. For example, a user may remove the cooked eggs from the warming component 500, place cheese on top of the cooked eggs, and place the cooked eggs (with cheese) back into the warming component 500. Additionally, the user may have other food products that the user wishes to keep warm and may place the other food products in the warming component 500 to keep them warm.

[0136] The controller may be configured to adjust the warming temperature of the warming tray 530 based on user input. In some embodiments, the user may input the warming temperature. In some embodiments, the user may input the warming time. For example, the warming tray 530 may keep the cooked eggs warm for a certain amount of time based on the user input. In some embodiments, the warming tray 530 may be configured to keep the cooked eggs warm until the user removes the cooked eggs from the warming tray 530 and the kitchen device.

[0137] The warming component 500 may also include an access door to allow a user to physically remove the cooked eggs from the kitchen device. In some embodiments, the access door may be configured to open and eject the warming tray 530 with the cooked eggs that have been warmed. The user may then remove the cooked eggs from the warming tray 530, and the access door may be configured to reinsert the warming tray 530 into the kitchen device when the access door closes. In some embodiments, the access door may be configured to open and receive a plate from the user. The access door may then close and insert a plate into the kitchen device to receive the cooked eggs. For example, the warming tray 530 may be configured to gravitationally and / or mechanically transfer the eggs to the plate. Once the cooked eggs have been transferred, the access door may reopen and eject the plate from the kitchen device to the user. In some embodiments, the access door is configured to open and close in a manner that allows thermal stabilization of the warming component within the kitchen device.

[0138] Purification System In some embodiments, the kitchen devices provided herein may include a closed-loop cleaning system, which may include, for example, a storage tank for holding cleaning materials, a method for removing residue from surfaces of the kitchen device, a filtration system for separating liquid from solid waste, a heating element, and / or a method of sterilization.

[0139] The storage tank may be drainable and / or refillable. In some embodiments, it may be configured to store a sanitizer, a grease remover, an antibacterial solution, or other cleaning solution for cleaning surfaces within the kitchen device. The cleaning solution may be used to remove any grease or oil buildup from cooking surfaces.

[0140] Methods for removing residue or "unwanted leftovers" from surfaces of kitchen devices may be accomplished with a pump. In some embodiments, removal may be accomplished using a gravity system. The removed residue may be transferred to a filtration system to separate liquid waste from solid waste. After the residue is removed from surfaces within the kitchen device, a sterilization system may be used to clean and sanitize the surfaces. For example, sterilization methods may include ultraviolet light, sterilizing fluid, soap, high-pressure nozzles, or a combination thereof.

[0141] In some embodiments, the closed-loop cleaning system may clean kitchen devices at regular intervals. For example, the cleaning system may be programmed to run once a day, once every three days, once a week, etc. In some embodiments, the cleaning system may be programmed to run after every cooking cycle, after every other cooking cycle, etc. In some embodiments, the cleaning system may be configured to run in response to user input.

[0142] Graphical user interface for user control In some embodiments, a kitchen device according to embodiments provided herein may include a graphical user interface. The graphical user interface may include, for example, a touchscreen that allows a user to control various process parameters. A user may use the touchscreen to indicate a cooking method (e.g., scrambled, soft-boiled, soft-boiled). In some embodiments, a user may also use the touchscreen to indicate one or more temperatures (e.g., egg storage temperature in a storage component, hotplate temperature for cooking in a cooking component, warming temperature in a warming component). In some embodiments, a user may indicate one or more times. For example, a user may use the touchscreen to program a start time for the kitchen device. A user may also indicate a cooking time (e.g., the degree of "doneness" to which the egg is cooked) or a warming time. A user may also use the touchscreen to open an input access door and place a raw egg into the kitchen device in a storage component, start a cleaning cycle, and / or open an output access door and remove a cooked egg.

[0143] In some embodiments, the graphical user interface may also include an electronic display. The electronic display can be used to show the user one or more features of the kitchen device. For example, the electronic display may be configured to show when a cleaning cycle is running, the number of raw eggs in the tray of the storage component, the position of the raw eggs in the tray of the storage component, the length of time one or more raw eggs have been in the tray of the storage component, when a cooking cycle is running, the cooking method being used during an active cooking cycle, when the last cleaning cycle was completed, how often cleaning cycles are programmed to run, when the next cooking cycle is programmed to run, the amount of cleaning fluid remaining, the amount of lubricating oil remaining, etc.

[0144] In some embodiments, the graphical user interface may include both a touch screen and an electronic display.

[0145] In some embodiments, kitchen devices according to embodiments herein may include additional features, such as wireless internet and / or Bluetooth connectivity. By remotely connecting to the kitchen device via wireless or Bluetooth connectivity, a user may be able to control the features of the kitchen device from their smartphone or other electronic device. For example, a user may be able to remotely control any or all of the features described with reference to the touchscreen.

[0146] Methods of Cooking Eggs Using the Kitchen Devices Described Herein FIG. 6 illustrates a method 600 for cooking eggs using a kitchen device according to some embodiments herein.

[0147] Step 602 includes receiving raw eggs from a storage component of a kitchen device. For example, step 602 may be completed in storage component 200 of FIG. 2 and in egg breaking component 300 of FIG. 2. Specifically, step 602 may include transferring raw eggs from a storage component (e.g., storage component 200A, 200B, or 200C of FIG. 2A, 2B, or 2C, respectively) to an egg breaking component (e.g., egg breaking component 300A, 300B, or 300C of FIG. 3A, 3B, or 3C, respectively).

[0148] Step 603 includes positioning a raw egg in an optimal breaking position. Step 602 may be completed in an egg breaking component (e.g., egg breaking component 300A, 300B, or 300C of Figures 3A, 3B, or 3C, respectively).

[0149] Step 606 may include cracking the raw egg and separating the cracked egg shell from the egg white and egg yolk of the cracked egg. Step 603 may also be completed in an egg cracking component of a kitchen device described herein (e.g., egg cracking component 300A, 300B, or 300C of FIG. 3A, 3B, or 3C, respectively). Separating the cracked egg shell from the egg white and egg yolk of the cracked egg may include transferring the egg white and egg yolk to a cooking component of the kitchen device (e.g., cooking component 400A, 400B, or 400C of FIG. 4A, 4B, or 4C, respectively).

[0150] Step 608 includes cooking the egg white and yolk of the cracked egg on a temperature-controlled hot plate of a kitchen device. For example, step 608 may be completed in a cooking component of a kitchen device described herein (e.g., cooking component 400A, 400B, or 400C of FIGS. 4A, 4B, or 4C, respectively).

[0151] The foregoing description sets forth example methods, parameters, and equivalents. However, it should be recognized that such description is not intended as a limitation on the scope of the present disclosure, but is instead provided as a description of example embodiments. The example embodiments described above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described to best explain the principles of the disclosed techniques and their practical application. Those skilled in the art will thereby be enabled to best utilize the techniques and various embodiments with various modifications as suited to the particular use envisioned.

[0152] Although the present disclosure and examples have been thoroughly described with reference to the accompanying figures, it should be noted that various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the present disclosure and examples as defined by the claims. In the foregoing description of the present disclosure and examples, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments that may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments and examples may be practiced and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0153] Although the foregoing description uses the terms first, second, etc. to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by such terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another.

[0154] It should also be understood that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the," as used in the foregoing description, are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or," as used herein, refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be further understood that, as used herein, the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and / or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or units, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, units, and / or groups thereof.

[0155] The term "if" can be interpreted to mean "when" or "in response to" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context.

[0156] Although the present disclosure and examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be noted that various changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the present disclosure and examples as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A device, the device comprising: An egg-breaking component, the egg-breaking component comprising: Pusher and Sharp objects and Equipped with The egg cracking components include: receiving an egg between the pusher and the sharp object; positioning the eggs in position for breaking using the pusher; cracking the egg with the sharp object to form a cracked egg; Separating the shells of the cracked eggs from the whites and yolks of the cracked eggs; A device configured to:

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the sharp object has at least two components, and separating the shell of the cracked egg from the white and yolk of the cracked egg includes separating the at least two components of the sharp object to retain the shell and enable the egg white and yolk to be transferred to a cooking component of the device.

3. The device described in claim 1, wherein at least one component of the sharp object cracks the egg.

4. The device described in claim 1, further comprising a storage component configured to hold a plurality of eggs, the device configured to transfer the eggs from the storage component to the egg-breaking component.

5. The device described in claim 4, wherein the storage component comprises a plurality of cups, each of the plurality of cups configured to hold one egg of the plurality of eggs.

6. At least one cup of the plurality of cups is provided with an ejector; 6. The device of claim 5, wherein transferring the eggs from the storage component to the egg breaking component comprises advancing the ejector into the at least one cup holding the eggs such that the eggs are pushed out of the cups.

7. The device of claim 4, wherein the device is configured to transfer the eggs from the storage component of the device to the egg cracking component of the device using an exit mechanism, the exit mechanism comprising one or more of a gravity mechanism, a spiral mechanism, a ramp, a belt, a paddle, a coil, and a cup.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the pusher and the sharp object are located diametrically opposite each other on opposite sides of the egg.

9. The device described in claim 1, wherein the egg-breaking component is configured to separate the egg white from the egg yolk.

10. The device described in claim 9, further comprising a gravity ramp for transporting the shells to a waste container.

11. The device further comprising a cooking component, transferring at least one of the egg white or egg yolk from the breaking component to the cooking component; cooking at least one of the egg white or the egg yolk using the cooking component; The device of claim 1 configured to:

12. The device described in claim 11, wherein the cooking components include one or more temperature-controlled hot plates, spatulas controlled by a multi-axis robotic control arm, and / or a visual detection system.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein cooking at least one of the egg whites or the egg yolks includes detecting via the visual detection system a position of at least one of the egg whites or the egg yolks relative to the spatula, and cooking at least one of the egg whites or the egg yolks on the one or more temperature-controlled hot plates based on the detected position of at least one of the egg whites or the detected position of the egg yolk.

14. The device of claim 12, wherein cooking at least one of the egg white or the egg yolk includes detecting infrared heat emitted by at least one of the egg white or the egg yolk via the visual detection system to determine doneness, and cooking at least one of the egg white or the egg yolk on the one or more temperature-controlled hot plates based on the detected infrared heat.

15. The device of claim 12, wherein the one or more temperature-controlled hot plates comprise one or more of a flat cooking surface, a cooking surface having a raised edge along one or more edges of the cooking surface, and a curved heating surface.

16. The device, receiving a request from a user at a graphical user interface for a cooked egg type, the cooked egg type including one or more of scrambled, soft-boiled, and soft-boiled; cooking at least one of the egg white or the egg yolk using the cooking components according to the requested cooked egg type; The device of claim 11 configured to:

17. The device, receiving, from a user at a graphical user interface, a plurality of process parameters, the plurality of process parameters including one or more of a cooking method, a cooking start time, or a cooking temperature; cooking at least one of the egg white or the egg yolk using the cooking components according to the plurality of process parameters; The device of claim 11 configured to:

18. The device further comprising a heating component, transferring at least one of the cooked egg white or the cooked egg yolk to the warming component; warming at least one of the cooked egg white or the cooked egg yolk using the warming component; The device of claim 11 configured to:

19. The device of claim 18, wherein warming at least one of the cooked egg white or the cooked egg yolk comprises warming at least one of the cooked egg white or the cooked egg yolk using recycled warm air from the cooking component.

20. A method of cracking an egg using a device, the method comprising: receiving an egg between a pusher and a sharp object of an egg breaking component of said device; positioning the eggs in position for breaking using the pusher; cracking the egg with the sharp object to form a cracked egg; Separating the shells of the cracked eggs from the whites and yolks of the cracked eggs; A method comprising:

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