Discharging apparatus and method, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

A discharging apparatus (100) and method, and a computer-readable storage medium. The discharging apparatus (100) comprises: a storage module, which stores individual information; an identification portion (130), which identifies target objects, so as to determine whether a corresponding target object is in an identified state or an unidentified state; and a control module (110), wherein the control module controls, on the basis of first preset conditions, a discharging mechanism (140) to perform discharging until the difference value between the weight of remaining materials and a preset unit amount is less than a first preset difference value, and the control module (110) performs control on the basis of second preset conditions, and adjusts the extent to which an opening (151) is blocked, so as to allow only one corresponding target object to acquire materials through the opening. The first preset conditions include that a cover body is in a closed state within a feeding time of any piece of individual information, the number of times that at least one target object is identified is less than a corresponding preset number of times of feeding, and the difference value between the preset unit amount and the weight of the remaining materials is greater than or equal to a second preset difference value; and the second preset conditions include that one of the target objects is in the identified state, and the number of times that the corresponding target object in the identified state is identified is less than or equal to the preset number of times of feeding.

Description

Discharging device, method and computer readable storage medium

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202310921305.5 filed on July 25, 2023, and the contents of the above-mentioned Chinese patent application disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as a part of this application. Technical Field

[0002] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a discharging device, method, and computer-readable storage medium. Background Art

[0003] Different discharging plans are often required to be implemented by a single discharging device based on the different needs of different target objects. For example, in a household with multiple pets, different plans need to be developed based on the needs of different pets, and a single discharging device can meet different plans for different pets.

[0004] Summary of the Invention

[0005] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a discharging device, comprising a storage module, an identification part, a discharging mechanism, a container and a shielding structure, which are respectively connected to the control module for communication, the discharging mechanism is connected to the container; the container includes an opening facing the outside, and the shielding structure is arranged at the opening; the shielding structure and the container are configured to be able to move relative to each other and switch between a closed state and an open state to adjust the degree to which the opening is blocked, and in the closed state, the shielding structure completely blocks the opening; the storage module is configured to store multiple individual information corresponding to multiple targets, each individual information including at least a feeding time and a preset feeding number; the identification part is configured to identify the target to determine whether the corresponding target is in an identified state or an unidentified state; the control module is configured to control the discharging mechanism based on a first preset condition Discharge material into the container until the difference between the remaining material weight of the material in the container and the preset unit amount is less than a first preset difference; the control module is also configured to control based on a second preset condition, and adjust the degree to which the opening is blocked to allow only one corresponding target object to obtain material from the container through the opening; wherein, the first preset condition includes that within the feeding time of any individual information among the multiple individual information, the blocking structure completely blocks the opening, the number of recognitions of at least one target object is less than the corresponding preset feeding number, and the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight is greater than or equal to the second preset difference; the second preset condition includes that one of the multiple targets is in the identified state, and the number of recognitions of the corresponding target object in the identified state is less than or equal to the preset feeding number.

[0006] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the identification part includes a detection module that is communicatively connected to the control module and is configured to detect the distance between the target object and the container; the target object is in the identified state, including that the distance between the corresponding target object and the container is less than or equal to a preset distance; the target object is in the unidentified state, including that the distance between the corresponding target object and the container is greater than the preset distance.

[0007] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the control module is also configured to perform control based on a third preset condition so that the blocking structure completely blocks the opening; the third preset condition is at least one of the following conditions: exceeding the feeding time of the corresponding target object in the identified state; the state of the corresponding target object is changed to an unidentified state; and the material in the container is exhausted.

[0008] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module is further configured to record a single usage time of the corresponding target object that changes from the recognized state to the unrecognized state.

[0009] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module is also configured to record the total material usage time of each of the multiple target objects; the total material usage time is the sum of the single material usage time of the corresponding target object within the feeding time.

[0010] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the control module is configured to obtain the corresponding preset feeding number according to the corresponding target object identified by the identification part; and / or the control module is configured to obtain the corresponding feeding time according to the corresponding target object identified by the identification part.

[0011] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first preset difference is 0% to 10% of the preset unit amount.

[0012] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second preset difference is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 5% to 10% of the preset unit amount.

[0013] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a weighing module is further included that is communicatively connected to the control module and is configured to weigh the container to obtain the weight of the remaining material.

[0014] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module is further configured to record the single material usage of the corresponding target object that changes from the recognized state to the unrecognized state.

[0015] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module is further configured to record the total amount of material used for each of the multiple targets; the total amount of material used is the sum of the single material amounts of the corresponding target objects within the feeding time.

[0016] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the discharging mechanism is configured to be switchable between a discharging state and a stop state.

[0017] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the discharging mechanism also includes a discharging component and a sensor respectively connected to the control module for communication; the sensor is configured to detect the braking position of the discharging component, and the control module brakes the discharging component based on the braking position to switch the discharging mechanism from the discharging state to the stop state.

[0018] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the identification part includes a radio frequency identification module and / or an image recognition module.

[0019] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an alarm module is further included that is communicatively connected to the control module and is configured to issue an alarm signal under abnormal conditions; the control module is configured to perform control based on the alarm signal so that the shielding structure completely blocks the opening.

[0020] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the abnormal condition is at least one of the following conditions: the container and the discharging mechanism are not aligned; the shielding structure and the container are in an intermediate state between the closed state and the open state; when the discharging mechanism discharges material into the container, no material is added to the container; when the discharging mechanism does not discharge material into the container, material is added to the container.

[0021] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a discharging method for use with the discharging device described in any of the above embodiments, comprising: storing a plurality of individual information corresponding to a plurality of targets, each of the individual information including at least a feeding time and a preset feeding number; identifying a target to determine whether the corresponding target is in the identified state or the unidentified state; controlling the discharging mechanism to discharge material into the container based on a first preset condition until the difference between the remaining material weight in the container and the preset unit amount is less than the first preset difference; controlling the opening based on a second preset condition and adjusting the degree of obstruction of the opening to allow only one of the corresponding targets to pass through the opening to obtain material from the container; wherein the first preset condition includes that the obstruction structure completely obstructs the opening during the feeding time of any of the individual information among the plurality of individual information, the number of identifications of at least one target is less than the corresponding preset feeding number, and the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight is greater than or equal to the second preset difference; and the second preset condition includes that one of the plurality of targets is in the identified state, and the number of identifications of the corresponding target in the identified state is less than or equal to the preset feeding number.

[0022] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium having executable code stored thereon. When the executable code is executed by a processor, the processor executes the discharging method described in the above embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the drawings of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description only relate to some embodiments of the present disclosure, rather than limiting the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a closed state of a discharge device provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of an open state of a discharge device provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG3 is a cross-sectional view of a discharging device in a closed state provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG4 is a cross-sectional view of the discharge device in an open state provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG5 is a schematic block diagram of a discharge device provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of the working process of the discharge device provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG7 is a flow chart of the first preset condition of the discharge device provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG8 is a flow chart of a second preset condition of the discharging device provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG9 is a flow chart of a third preset condition of the discharging device provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG10 is a schematic diagram of a discharging method provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Explanation of the accompanying reference numerals: 100, discharging device; 110, control module; 120, storage module; 130, identification part; 132, camera; 140, discharging mechanism; 141, discharging assembly; 145, storage piece; 150, container; 151, opening; 160, shielding structure; 170, weighing module; 180, alarm module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] To make the purpose, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure more clear, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be clearly and completely described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the described embodiments are part of the embodiments of the present disclosure, not all of the embodiments. Based on the described embodiments of the present disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, technical or scientific terms used in this disclosure should have the ordinary meanings understood by people with ordinary skills in the field to which this disclosure belongs. The words "first", "second" and similar terms used in this disclosure do not indicate any order, quantity or importance, but are simply used to distinguish different components. The words "include" or "comprising" and similar terms mean that the elements or objects preceding the word include the elements or objects listed after the word and their equivalents, without excluding other elements or objects.

[0037] In industries such as industry, agriculture, animal husbandry, or the pet industry, it is often necessary to implement different discharging plans through a discharging device. Taking the pet industry as an example, with the increasing number of pets per capita, more and more pet-owning families own more than one pet. For example, when raising two or more cats or dogs at the same time, considering the different health status of each pet, the feeding plans formulated are also different accordingly. During the study, the inventors of this application found that the discharging device is difficult to adapt to multiple feeding plans. In addition, during the multi-pet feeding process, since the pet's eating behavior is uncontrollable, it is difficult for the discharging device to accurately obtain the eating situation of each pet.

[0038] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a discharging device, comprising a storage module, an identification part, a discharging mechanism, a container and a shielding structure respectively connected to the control module for communication, the discharging mechanism is connected to the container; the container comprises an opening facing the outside, and the shielding structure is arranged at the opening; the shielding structure and the container are configured to be able to move relative to each other and switch between a closed state and an open state to adjust the degree to which the opening is blocked, and in the closed state, the shielding structure completely blocks the opening; the storage module is configured to store multiple individual information corresponding to multiple targets, each of the individual information includes at least a feeding time and a preset number of feeding times; the identification part is configured to identify the target to determine whether the corresponding target is in an identified state or an unidentified state; the control module is configured to control the discharging mechanism to move to the open state based on a first preset condition. The container discharges material, and the difference between the weight of the remaining material in the container and the preset unit amount is less than the first preset difference; the control module is also configured to control the shielding structure based on a second preset condition, and adjust the degree to which the opening is blocked to allow only one corresponding target object to obtain material from the container through the opening; the first preset condition includes that within the feeding time of any individual information among the multiple individual information, the shielding structure completely blocks the opening, the number of recognitions of at least one target object is less than the corresponding preset feeding number, and the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight is greater than or equal to the second preset difference; the second preset condition includes that one of the multiple targets is in the identified state, and the number of recognitions of the corresponding target object in the identified state is less than or equal to the preset feeding number.

[0039] In the discharging device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, when the remaining material weight meets the refilling condition within the feeding time and the number of identifications of at least one target object is less than its corresponding preset feeding number, the control module controls the discharging mechanism to discharge the material into the container, during which the shielding structure completely blocks the opening. When the target object is in the recognition state and the number of identifications of the corresponding target object is less than or equal to its preset feeding number, the shielding structure and the container are controlled to move relative to each other to adjust the degree of obstruction of the opening, so that the material in the container is exposed to the outside, allowing the corresponding target object to take or use the material through the opening, while preventing other targets from eating together with the corresponding target object.

[0040] Below, the target object is a pet, the material is pet food, and the discharging device is used to feed the pet as an example, and the discharging device, method and computer-readable storage medium of the present disclosure are introduced in more detail in combination with some embodiments, so that the technical solution and its advantages and technical effects according to the present disclosure are clearer.

[0041] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the discharging device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure in a closed state. Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the discharging device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure in an open state. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the discharging device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure in a closed state. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the discharging device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure in an open state. Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of the discharging device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] Referring to Figures 1 to 5 , the discharging device 100 includes a storage module 120, an identification portion 130, a discharging mechanism 140, a container 150, and a shielding structure 160, each of which is communicatively connected to a control module 110. The discharging mechanism 140 is in communication with the container 150. The container 150 includes an opening 151 facing the outside, and the shielding structure 160 is disposed at the opening 151. For example, referring to Figures 1 to 4 , the shielding structure 160 and the container 150 are configured to move relative to each other and switch between a closed state and an open state to adjust the degree of obstruction of the opening 151. In the closed state, the shielding structure 160 completely obstructs the opening 151. For example, the shielding structure 160 may remain stationary while controlling the movement of the container 150. For another example, the container 150 may remain stationary while controlling the movement of the shielding structure 160. The following description will use the example of controlling the movement of the shielding structure 160, but this is not intended to be limiting. When shielding structure 160 is open, an object, such as a pet, can retrieve food from the container. When shielding structure 160 is closed, shielding structure 160 seals discharging device 100, preventing moisture or oxidation of the food within the container. Furthermore, shielding structure 160 can adjust the degree to which opening 151 is obscured. As will be appreciated from the embodiments described below, shielding structure 160 can adjust the degree to which opening 151 is exposed when a pet is feeding, thereby allowing only the pet to access food, preventing other pets from competing for food.

[0043] For example, the discharging device 100 may further include a storage member 145 connected to the discharging mechanism 140, wherein the storage member 145 has a storage cavity containing materials. For example, the storage member 145 is a grain barrel for storing pet food.

[0044] FIG6 is a schematic diagram of the workflow of the discharging device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG6 , for example, the storage module 120 is configured to store a plurality of individual information corresponding to a plurality of target objects, and each individual information includes at least a feeding time and a preset feeding number. The target object is, for example, a dog, cat, or other pet. The feeding time is, for example, a feeding time, which can be set specifically based on the actual situation of the pet. Setting the feeding time can enable the pet to establish a good conditioned reflex. By setting the preset feeding number within the feeding time, the pet can be cultivated with a good eating habit, reduce the risk of the pet refusing to eat or being picky about food, and benefit the pet's health.

[0045] For example, individual information also includes identity information, and identity information refers to information that can be matched with the target object. For example, identity information is facial feature information, nose print feature information or electronic identification information of the pet, and the relevant embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail later. Of course, individual information can also include other information, such as pet type, pet age, pet weight and other information, which are not limited here. For example, individual information can also include a single feeding time, such as a single eating time. For example, a single eating refers to the eating process of a pet eating continuously within a time period. By setting a single eating time, it is beneficial for the pet to finish eating the pet food in the container 150 in time when the shielding structure 160 is opened. In addition, setting a single eating time can also reduce the risk of affecting other pets' eating due to the corresponding pet's bad eating behavior. For example, the corresponding pet continues to occupy the eating area in front of the container 150 but does not eat, resulting in other pets being unable to eat during the feeding time.

[0046] For example, the recognition unit 130 is configured to identify a target object and determine whether the corresponding target object is in a recognized state or an unrecognized state. For example, during the recognition process, the recognition unit 130 determines whether the target object is recognized and switches the corresponding target object between a recognized state and an unrecognized state. By identifying pets, food can be precisely delivered to the corresponding pet based on pre-stored individual information, preventing other pets from being fed and disrupting the feeding plan.

[0047] FIG7 is a flow chart of the first preset condition of the discharging device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG6 and FIG7, the control module 110 is further configured to control the discharging mechanism 140 to discharge material to the container 150 based on the first preset condition, until the difference between the remaining material weight of the material in the container 150 and the preset unit amount is less than the first preset difference, thereby facilitating the control of the single food intake of the pet. For example, the remaining material weight is the real-time weight of the material in the container 150. When the difference between the remaining material weight and the preset unit amount is less than the first preset difference, that is, the container 150 contains approximately the preset unit amount of material, so that the pet can eat approximately the preset unit amount of pet food when the shielding structure 160 is opened.

[0048] For example, the first preset difference is 0%-10% of the preset unit amount. For example, the first preset difference is one of 9%, 7%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, and 1% of the preset unit amount. Most pet food is in the form of granules of exactly the same size, and the amount of pet food after each discharge can fluctuate within approximately 10% of the preset unit amount. It is understood that the user can also set the first preset difference according to actual needs, and this is not limited here.

[0049] The preset unit amount can be set by the user. For example, the preset unit amount can be set as a common factor of multiple planned feeding amounts corresponding to multiple pets, thereby matching different feeding plans with the preset unit amount. The details will be explained later in conjunction with some embodiments. It should be noted that the judgment order shown in Figure 7 is only exemplary. In practice, there is no specific order in which the sub-conditions of the first preset condition are judged.

[0050] For example, the first preset condition includes the feeding time of any of the multiple individual information. For example, multiple individual information items corresponding to multiple feeding times are pre-stored, and the first preset condition includes any of the feeding times. Of course, the feeding time in each individual information item can be set to different time periods or the same time period. For example, the feeding time includes a timestamp and a time period. For example, the discharge of the discharging mechanism 140 is controlled based on the timestamp. For example, in conjunction with some embodiments described below, during the feeding time period of 6:00-7:00, assuming that the control module 110 determines that the first preset condition is met at 6:59, even if the discharging of 20 grams cannot be completed at 7:00 (for example, it takes 2 minutes to discharge 20 grams), the discharging mechanism 140 is still controlled to start discharging the food into the container 150. For example, if the current feeding time is exceeded, such as at 7:01, the discharging mechanism 140 is no longer controlled to start discharging the food into the container 150 to prevent the food from getting damp or oxidized. The discharging mechanism 140 can be controlled to discharge the food again at the next feeding time. For example, the pet's eating behavior may be determined based on the time period to determine whether it exceeds the feeding time. For example, if the pet can eat between 6:00 and 7:00, but the pet has not finished eating at 7:00, the control module 110 will still control the shielding structure 160 to close, and the pet will no longer be allowed to eat.

[0051] For example, the first preset condition also includes the shielding structure 160 completely obstructing the opening 151, e.g., the shielding structure 160 is in a closed state. During the feeding process, the shielding structure 160 is closed, thereby preventing the remaining material weight from increasing as the material is discharged while continuing to decrease due to the pet's continued feeding behavior, which could cause the pet to interfere with the discharge process and cause inaccurate discharge volume. It will be understood that the shielding structure 160 remains closed during the discharge process. Accordingly, when the shielding structure 160 is opened to allow the pet to feed, the discharge mechanism 140 will not discharge material. This allows the discharge process of the discharge device 100 to be separated from the pet's feeding process, avoiding potential interference between the two processes.

[0052] For example, the first preset condition also includes that the number of times at least one target object is recognized is less than the corresponding preset number of feeding times. In combination with some embodiments described later, the corresponding pet is identified during the feeding time, and when the pet is identified, the shielding structure 160 is opened to feed the pet. It can be understood that the number of times the corresponding pet is identified is also the number of times the pet is fed. For example, when the number of times at least one pet is recognized is less than its corresponding preset number of feeding times, that is, when there is a pet whose feeding number does not reach the preset number of feeding times, the control module 110 controls the discharging mechanism 140 to discharge food to the container 150 during the feeding time, so that the next time the pet is identified, it can be fed based on the corresponding individual information. For example, after the number of times all pets are identified reaches the preset number of feeding times, the discharging mechanism 140 will no longer discharge food into the container 150 to prevent the pet food from getting damp or oxidized.

[0053] For example, the first preset condition also includes the requirement that the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight is greater than or equal to a second preset difference. It will be understood that the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight represents the pet's single meal intake. For example, to ensure more accurate pet intake, the second preset difference can be set to 0. This means that regardless of the pet's previous single meal intake, the remaining material weight will be replenished to the preset unit amount. For example, to prevent over-frequent restocking, the second preset difference can be set to be greater than 0 and less than or equal to 5% to 10% of the preset unit amount. This means that if the pet's single meal intake is too small, restocking can be disabled. For example, the user can set the second preset difference to 5%. In conjunction with some embodiments described below, if the preset unit amount is 20 grams, the second preset difference is 1 gram. This means that if the previous pet only ate 1 gram or less, restocking will not be performed because it will not significantly affect the subsequent pet's food intake. It is understood that the user can also set the second preset difference based on actual needs, and this is not limited here.

[0054] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the control module 110 is configured to control the discharging mechanism 140 to stop discharging when the weight of the remaining material equals a preset unit amount. It is understood that when the food is replenished to the preset unit amount, the discharging mechanism 140 stops discharging, thereby ensuring that the container 150 after replenishment contains the preset unit amount of pet food. For example, before the discharging mechanism 140 discharges the food, the remaining material weight is 10 grams. When the material in the container 150 reaches 20 grams, the discharging stops. In other words, during this process, the discharging mechanism 140 is controlled to discharge 10 grams.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 7 in conjunction with FIG. 3 , for example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the discharging mechanism 140 is configured to switch between a discharging state and a stopped state. For example, in the discharging state, the discharging mechanism 140 delivers pet food into the container 150. In the stopped state, the discharging mechanism 140 stops operating and no longer delivers pet food into the container 150.

[0056] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the discharge mechanism 140 includes a discharge assembly 141 and a sensor (not shown) that are respectively connected to the control module 110 in communication. The sensor is configured to detect the brake position of the discharge assembly 141. The control module 110 brakes the discharge assembly 141 based on the brake position to stop the discharge. The discharge assembly 141 is, for example, an impeller assembly and a motor that are connected in a transmission manner. The control module 110 controls the motor to rotate and drive the impeller in the impeller assembly to rotate. The impeller in the impeller assembly rotates forward to move the pet food, causing the pet food to fall into the container 150. When the discharge assembly 141 is braked, the sensor detects the brake position of the discharge assembly 141, thereby improving the braking reliability of the discharge assembly 141. For example, the storage member 145 has an inlet and a discharge port that are respectively connected to the storage chamber. The inlet is used to add material to the storage chamber. The impeller assembly is configured to open or block the discharge port during rotation to connect or isolate the discharge port from the discharge mechanism 140.

[0057] For example, the sensor is a magnetic sensor, such as a Hall effect sensor. For example, a magnet is provided at the bottom of the impeller. When the impeller assembly is braked, if the magnet at the bottom of the impeller does not trigger the positioning sensor, the impeller rotates in reverse until the positioning sensor is triggered, thereby reliably braking the discharging assembly 141. For example, the impeller material includes silicone to enhance the sealing effect. Of course, other sealing members can also be provided on the impeller, and this is not limited here.

[0058] Figure 8 is a schematic flow diagram illustrating a second preset condition for the discharging device 100 according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 8 , the control module 110 is further configured to control the opening of the obstruction structure 160 based on the second preset condition and adjust the degree of obstruction of the opening 151 to allow only one corresponding target object to access food from the container 150 through the opening 151, thereby providing food to the corresponding pet while preventing non-corresponding pets from snatching food. For example, the degree of obstruction of the opening 151 can be adjusted based on the size of the user's pet.

[0059] 8 , the shielding structure 160 may include a cover, and the degree of shielding of the opening is controlled by the different positions of the cover. The cover is disposed above the opening 151 and is opened or closed under the control of the control module 110 to reveal or close the opening 151.

[0060] However, the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the shielding structure 160 may include a cover and a plurality of baffles (not shown). The cover merely controls whether the opening is completely blocked or fully open, while the baffles are used to adjust the degree to which the opening is blocked. For example, there may be two baffles, one on each side of the opening 151. Under the control of the control module 110, the two baffles can move away from or closer to each other, thereby adjusting the size of the space allowed for pets to pass through to accommodate pets of different sizes. Of course, the number of baffles may also be multiple or one, and this is not limited here.

[0061] For another example, the shielding structure 160 includes a cover and a mask (not shown), which is positioned above the opening 151. If multiple pets are roughly the same size, the mask has an entrance that allows only one pet to pass through, and the entrance is connected to the opening 151, thereby allowing only the corresponding pet to eat. Of course, if the pets have significantly different sizes, masks with different entrance sizes can be used for different pets, and this is not limited here.

[0062] For example, the individual information also includes the body size data of the corresponding pet. The control module 110 adjusts the exposure degree of the opening 151 based on the body size data to prevent other pets from competing for food.

[0063] For example, container 150 is a flip-top feeding bowl, meaning the lid can be flipped relative to opening 151. Another example is a push-pull feeding bowl, meaning the lid is configured as a sliding door. Another example is a folding feeding bowl, meaning the lid is configured as a folding door. Of course, the lid can also be configured as other structures, as long as it can be switched between open and closed states, and this is not a limitation here. It should be noted that the judgment order shown in FIG8 is merely exemplary; in practice, the judgment of the sub-conditions in the second pre-set condition is not in any particular order.

[0064] For example, the second preset condition includes one of the multiple objects being in a recognized state. It is understood that the second preset condition includes a target object transitioning from an unrecognized state to a recognized state. For example, the recognition unit 130 continuously recognizes a pet during operation. When the pet meets a trigger condition or conditions, the recognition unit 130 determines that the corresponding pet has transitioned from an unrecognized state to a recognized state.

[0065] For example, the second preset condition also includes that the number of recognitions of the corresponding target object in the recognized state is less than or equal to the preset feeding number. For example, when the recognition part 130 determines that the pet changes from an unrecognized state to a recognized state, the number of recognitions is increased by 1. It should be noted that when the pet is in the recognition state and the number of recognitions does not exceed the preset feeding number, the shielding structure 160 is opened once for each increase in the number of recognitions to feed the pet. Therefore, when the cumulative number of recognitions is less than or equal to the preset feeding number, that is, the actual number of meals has not yet reached the preset feeding number, and when the number of recognitions of the corresponding pet is greater than the preset feeding number, the feeding plan of the corresponding pet has been met, and the shielding structure 160 is no longer opened.

[0066] For example, storage module 120 stores the individual information of three pets, A, B, and C. Referring to Table 1 below, three feeding times are set for A, B, and C, and these feeding times are consistent: 6:00-7:00, 12:00-1:00, and 18:00-19:00, respectively. In conjunction with the previous embodiment, it can be understood that the planned feeding amount for a pet within a feeding time is the product of the preset number of feedings and the preset unit amount. For example, during the feeding time from 6:00-7:00, if A's planned feeding amount is 40 grams and B's planned feeding amount is 20 grams, the preset unit amount can be set to the common factor of 20 grams. From 6:00 to 7:00, the preset feeding times of A, B and C are 2 times, 1 time and 0 times respectively; from 12:00 to 13:00, the preset feeding times of A, B and C are 1 time, 1 time and 2 times respectively; from 18:00 to 19:00, the preset feeding times of A, B and C are 2 times, 1 time and 2 times respectively.

[0067] Table 1

[0068] For example, at 6:00, 12:00, and 18:00, the pet has not yet started eating within the feeding time, that is, the number of recognitions for each pet is 0. At this time, if other conditions are met, such as the shielding structure 160 is in a closed state and there is no pet food in the container 150, the discharging mechanism 140 can be controlled to discharge 20 grams of food into the container 150.

[0069] For example, the second preset difference is set to 4 grams. For example, if the weight of the remaining material in the container 150 is 2 grams when the other conditions are met, that is, the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight is 18 grams, then the first preset condition is met and it is necessary to add food to the container 150. It can be understood that 18 grams is the amount of food that the pet can eat in a single meal before the shielding structure 160 is closed.

[0070] For example, during the feeding time of 6:00-7:00, A can eat twice, B can eat once, and C cannot eat. For example, after A transitions from an unrecognized state to a recognized state once, when it transitions to a recognized state a second time, the shielding structure 160 opens again toward A, allowing A to eat a second time. For example, after B transitions from an unrecognized state to a recognized state once, even if B is again determined to be in a recognized state by the recognition unit 130, for example, when B transitions from an unrecognized state to a recognized state a second time, the shielding structure 160 will no longer open toward B. For example, when C is in a recognized state, since its preset feeding count is set to 0, the shielding structure 160 remains closed and does not open toward C.

[0071] For example, the control module 110 is configured to obtain a corresponding preset feeding number based on the corresponding target object identified by the recognition portion 130. For example, in combination with some of the aforementioned embodiments, during the feeding time of 6:00-7:00, when the recognition portion 130 recognizes A, that is, when A changes from an unrecognized state to a recognized state, the preset feeding number of A obtained by the control module 110 is 2. For example, the control module 110 is configured to obtain a corresponding feeding time based on the corresponding target object identified by the recognition portion 130. For example, in combination with some of the aforementioned embodiments, when the recognition portion 130 recognizes B, that is, when B changes from an unrecognized state to a recognized state, the feeding times of B obtained by the control module 110 are 6:00-7:00, 12:00-13:00, and 18:00-19:00.

[0072] As shown in conjunction with FIG. 8 and FIG. 5 , for example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the recognition unit 130 includes a detection module in communication with the control module 110 and configured to detect the distance between the target object and the container 150. For example, the detection module may be a radar or infrared sensor. For example, a target object being in a recognized state includes a distance between the target object and the container being less than or equal to a preset distance, while a target object being in an unrecognized state includes a distance between the target object and the container being greater than the preset distance. By detecting the distance, the detection module can determine that the pet has transitioned from an unrecognized state to a recognized state when the pet approaches the container 150, thereby enabling the control module 110 to open the barrier structure 160 to facilitate the pet's feeding. When the distance exceeds the preset distance, meaning that the pet has moved away from the container 150, the control module 110 determines that the pet has transitioned from a recognized state to an unrecognized state, thereby enabling the control module 110 to close the barrier structure 160. For example, the preset distance may be any value between 0 and 10 centimeters.

[0073] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the identification portion 130 includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) module and / or an image recognition module. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), also known as wireless radio frequency identification, is a communication technology that uses radio signals to identify specific targets and read and write related data, without requiring mechanical or optical contact between the identification system and the specific target. For example, a sensor chip can be embedded in a pet collar, storing the pet's identity information. When a pet wearing a pet collar with an embedded sensor chip approaches the container 150, the RFID module in the discharging device 100 can receive the corresponding identity information through electromagnetic induction, thereby enabling identification. The image recognition module can be, for example, a camera 132, which can capture images of the approaching pet, thereby enabling identification through the captured images. For example, the camera 132 can be located within the discharging device 100, and the shielding structure 160 can be made of a transparent material, thereby enabling both capture and protection of the camera 132. Of course, other biometric identification technologies can also be used to identify and label different pets, and this is not a limitation here.

[0074] For example, recognition of a pet by the identification unit 130 means that the RFID module and / or image recognition module recognizes the pet's identity information when the distance between them is less than a preset distance. For example, the preset distance can be set to be less than the recognition range of the RFID module and / or image recognition module to more accurately control the opening of the shielding structure 160, thereby preventing the shielding structure 160 from opening when the pet is not near. For example, if the recognition range radius of the RFID module and / or image recognition module is 30 cm, the preset distance can be set to 10 cm.

[0075] FIG9 is a flow chart of the third preset condition of the discharge device 100 provided in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG9 , for example, the control module 110 is further configured to perform control based on the third preset condition, such as controlling the shielding structure 160 to close so that the shielding structure 160 completely blocks the opening 151. The third preset condition is at least one of the following conditions: the feeding time of the corresponding target object in the identified state is exceeded; the state of the corresponding target object is changed to the unidentified state; and the material in the container is exhausted. It should be noted that the judgment order shown in FIG9 is merely exemplary. In fact, there is no order in which the judgments of the various sub-conditions in the second preset condition are made.

[0076] In combination with some of the aforementioned embodiments, for example, when the time is 7:01, the feeding time of the corresponding pet has been exceeded. Even if the pet in the recognized state is still eating, the shielding structure 160 will be closed, thereby cultivating the good habit of the pet to eat during the feeding time. When the state of the corresponding pet changes from the recognized state to the unrecognized state, for example, after the corresponding pet leaves and the distance between it and the container 150 is 15 cm, the shielding structure 160 is controlled to close. In this way, it is possible to prevent the pet food from getting damp and oxidizing due to the shielding structure 160 remaining open. In addition, timely control of the closing of the shielding structure 160 can also prevent other non-corresponding pets from eating. For example, it can prevent pets whose feeding plan does not match the current feeding time from eating. For another example, it can prevent pets that have reached the preset feeding number from continuing to eat. When the material in the container 150 is used up, for example, the pet food in the container 150 has been eaten by the corresponding pet and the remaining material weight is 0 grams, it is necessary to close the shielding structure 160 and control the discharge mechanism 140 to discharge the material to replenish the food to the preset unit amount of 20 grams.

[0077] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module 120 is also configured to record the single feeding duration of the corresponding target object that changes from a recognized state to an unrecognized state. For example, the single feeding duration is the duration from the shielding structure 160 being turned on to the shielding structure 160 being closed. By recording the single feeding duration of the corresponding pet, it is easy to grasp the eating situation of the corresponding pet each time. In combination with some of the aforementioned embodiments, for example, A changes from an unrecognized state to a recognized state at 6:10, at which time the shielding structure 160 is opened, A starts eating and leaves the container 150 at 6:15, A changes from a recognized state to an unrecognized state, at which time the shielding structure 160 is closed. During this eating process, A's single feeding duration is 5 minutes.

[0078] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module 120 is further configured to record the total feeding duration of the corresponding target object, which is the sum of the single feeding durations within the feeding time. By recording the total feeding duration of the corresponding pet, the overall feeding situation of the pet during the feeding time can be understood, thereby facilitating the management and control of the corresponding pet's eating behavior. In combination with some of the aforementioned embodiments, for example, if the single feeding duration of A during the first feeding process is 5 minutes and the single feeding duration during the second feeding process is 10 minutes, the total feeding duration is 15 minutes.

[0079] As shown in Figures 3 and 5, for example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a weighing module 170 is further included that is communicatively connected to the control module 110 and is configured to weigh the container 150 to obtain the weight of the remaining material in the container 150, thereby performing real-time monitoring of the weight of the pet food in the container 150. For example, the container 150 is placed above the weighing module 170, and when the weighing module 170 weighs, the weight of the container 150 is subtracted to obtain the weight of the pet food.

[0080] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module 120 is further configured to record the single feeding amount of the corresponding target object. For example, the single feeding amount is the change in the weight of the remaining material when the shielding structure 160 switches from being open to being closed. By recording the single feeding amount of the corresponding pet, it is possible to know the eating situation of the corresponding pet during each feeding. In combination with some of the aforementioned embodiments, for example, after A eats and leaves the container 150, the shielding structure 160 switches from an open state to a closed state. When the shielding structure 160 is open, the weight of the remaining material in the container 150 is 20 grams, and when the shielding structure 160 is closed, the weight of the remaining material in the container 150 is 10 grams. In this case, the single feeding amount of A is 10 grams. For another example, when B eats and leaves the container 150, the weight of the remaining material when the container 150 is open is 19 grams, and the weight of the remaining material when the container 150 is closed is 0 grams. In this case, the single feeding amount of B is 19 grams.

[0081] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the storage module 120 is further configured to record the total amount of food consumed by the corresponding target object, which is the sum of the single amounts of food consumed during the feeding time. By recording the total amount of food consumed by the corresponding pet, it is possible to understand the corresponding pet's eating situation during the entire feeding period, thereby facilitating the management and control of the corresponding pet's eating behavior. In combination with some of the aforementioned embodiments, for example, during the feeding time of 6:00-7:00, A's single amount of food consumed in the first feeding was 10 grams, and in the second feeding was 1 gram, then A's total food consumption is 11 grams.

[0082] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an alarm module 180 is further included, which is communicatively connected to the control module 110 and is configured to issue an alarm signal under abnormal conditions. The control module 110 is configured to perform control based on the alarm signal, such as controlling the shielding structure 160 to close so that the shielding structure 160 completely blocks the opening 151. Under abnormal conditions, controlling the shielding structure 160 to close via the alarm signal can alert and remind the user to promptly adjust the discharging device 100, and can also prevent the pet's feeding behavior from being affected by a malfunction of the discharging device 100.

[0083] For example, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, an abnormal condition is at least one of the following: the container 150 is not aligned with the discharge mechanism 140; the shielding structure 160 and the container 150 are in an intermediate state between the closed state and the open state; no material is added to the container 150 when the discharge mechanism 140 is discharging material into the container 150; and material is added to the container 150 when the discharge mechanism 140 is not discharging material into the container 150. It should be noted that the above sub-conditions are evaluated in no particular order.

[0084] For example, an abnormal condition is that the container 150 is misaligned or offset, resulting in a misalignment with the discharge mechanism 140. For example, the container 150 remains stationary while the blocking structure 160 is controlled to move. The blocking structure 160 cannot completely block the opening 151 when switched to the closed state, or the blocking structure 160 cannot open fully when switched to the open state, resulting in the portion of the opening 151 that is exposed not being compatible with the corresponding pet. For example, the pet food in the storage part 145 is zero or the discharge mechanism 140 is blocked, resulting in the discharge mechanism 140 being controlled to discharge food while the container 150 does not increase the amount of pet food. For example, the pet food in the storage part 145 is insufficient and the preset unit amount of food is not discharged. For example, the motor in the discharge mechanism 140 is stalled. For example, the control module 110 does not control the discharge mechanism 140 to discharge food, while the container 150 increases the amount of pet food. For example, the first preset condition is not met and the weight detected by the weighing module 170 increases significantly. Of course, the abnormal condition may also be other faults occurring in the discharging device 100, which is not limited here.

[0085] FIG10 is a schematic diagram of a discharging method provided by at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG10 , and in combination with FIG3 and FIG5 , at least one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a discharging method for use with the discharging device 100 of any of the above embodiments, comprising:

[0086] Step S110, storing a plurality of individual information corresponding to a plurality of target objects, each individual information including at least a feeding time and a preset feeding number;

[0087] Step S120: Identify the target object to determine whether the corresponding target object is in an identified state or an unidentified state;

[0088] Step S130: Controlling the discharging mechanism 140 to discharge material into the container 150 based on a first preset condition until the difference between the remaining material weight in the container 150 and the preset unit amount is less than the first preset difference; the first preset condition includes that the shielding structure 160 completely shields the opening 151 during the feeding time of any individual information among the plurality of individual information, the number of recognitions of at least one target object is less than the corresponding preset feeding number, and the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight is greater than or equal to a second preset difference;

[0089] Step S140, control is performed based on a second preset condition, for example, controlling the shielding structure 160 to open, and adjusting the degree of shielding of the opening 151 to allow only one corresponding target object to obtain material from the container 150 through the opening 151; the second preset condition includes that one of the multiple targets is in an identified state, and the number of identification times of the corresponding target object in the identified state is less than or equal to the preset feeding number.

[0090] In step S110, for example, individual information is stored with the aid of the storage module 120, and the target object is, for example, a pet such as a dog or cat. For the feeding time and the preset feeding times in the individual information, please refer to the contents of some of the aforementioned embodiments for details, which will not be repeated here. In step S120, for example, the target object is identified with the aid of the identification part 130, and the identification part 130 includes, for example, a detection module, a radio frequency identification module, and an image recognition module. In step S130, for example, the discharging mechanism 140 is controlled to operate under a first preset condition by the aid of the control module 110 to realize discharging. In step S140, for example, the shielding structure 160 is controlled to open under a second preset condition by the aid of the control module 110, and the degree to which the opening 151 is blocked is adjusted to feed the corresponding target object and only allow one corresponding target object to obtain the material.

[0091] Since the discharging method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is used for at least one of the above-mentioned discharging devices, it also has corresponding beneficial technical effects, which will not be described in detail here. It should be noted that the various method steps adopted in the discharging devices according to the above-mentioned embodiments of the present disclosure can also be included in the grain discharging method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and will not be described in detail here.

[0092] At least one embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium having executable code stored thereon. When executed by a processor, the executable code causes the processor to perform the discharging method of the above-described embodiment. Since the computer-readable storage medium according to the embodiment of the present disclosure performs the above-described discharging method, it also has corresponding beneficial technical effects, which will not be further described here.

[0093] There are a few points to note:

[0094] (1) The drawings of the embodiments of the present disclosure only relate to the structures related to the embodiments of the present disclosure, and other structures may refer to conventional designs.

[0095] (2) Unless there is any conflict, the features of the same embodiment or different embodiments of the present disclosure may be combined with each other.

[0096] The foregoing description is merely an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of the present disclosure. The scope of protection of the present disclosure is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A discharging device, comprising a storage module, an identification part, a discharging mechanism, a container and a shielding structure respectively connected to a control module in communication, wherein the discharging mechanism is in communication with the container; the container comprises an opening facing the outside, and the shielding structure is arranged at the opening; the shielding structure and the container are configured to be able to move relative to each other and switch between a closed state and an open state to adjust the degree to which the opening is blocked, and in the closed state, the shielding structure completely blocks the opening; The storage module is configured to store a plurality of individual information corresponding to a plurality of targets, each of the individual information at least including a feeding time and a preset feeding number; The recognition part is configured to recognize the target object to determine whether the corresponding target object is in a recognized state or an unrecognized state; The control module is configured to control the discharging mechanism to discharge material into the container based on a first preset condition until the difference between the remaining material weight of the material in the container and the preset unit amount is less than the first preset difference; The control module is further configured to perform control based on a second preset condition and adjust the degree to which the opening is blocked to allow only one corresponding target object to obtain material from the container through the opening; in, The first preset condition includes that within the feeding time of any individual information among the multiple individual information, the shielding structure completely blocks the opening, the recognition number of at least one target object is less than the corresponding preset feeding number, and the difference between the preset unit quantity and the remaining material weight is greater than or equal to the second preset difference; the second preset condition includes that one of the multiple target objects is in the recognized state, and the recognition number of the corresponding target object in the recognized state is less than or equal to the preset feeding number.

2. The discharging device according to claim 1, wherein: The identification part includes a detection module that is communicatively connected to the control module and is configured to detect the distance between the target object and the container; The target being in the recognized state includes that the distance between the corresponding target and the container is less than or equal to a preset distance; the target being in the unrecognized state includes that the distance between the corresponding target and the container is greater than the preset distance.

3. The discharging device according to claim 2, wherein: The control module is further configured to perform control based on a third preset condition so that the shielding structure completely shields the opening; The third preset condition is at least one of the following conditions: Exceeding the feeding time of the corresponding target object in the identified state; The state of the corresponding target object changes to an unrecognized state; and The container is depleted of material.

4. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The storage module is also configured to record a single material usage duration of the corresponding target object that changes from the identified state to the unidentified state.

5. The discharging device according to claim 4, wherein: The storage module is also configured to record the total material usage time of each target object among the multiple targets; The total material usage time is the sum of the single material usage time of the corresponding target object within the feeding time.

6. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The control module is configured to obtain the corresponding preset feeding times according to the corresponding target object identified by the identification part; and / or The control module is configured to obtain the corresponding feeding time according to the corresponding target object identified by the identification part.

7. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The first preset difference is 0% to 10% of the preset unit amount.

8. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The second preset difference is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 5% to 10% of the preset unit amount.

9. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a weighing module communicatively connected to the control module, configured to weigh the container to obtain the weight of the remaining material.

10. The discharging device according to claim 9, wherein: The storage module is further configured to record a single material usage of the corresponding target object that changes from the identified state to the unidentified state.

11. The discharging device according to claim 10, wherein: The storage module is also configured to record the total amount of material used for each of the plurality of targets; The total amount of material used is the sum of the single amounts of material used corresponding to the target object within the feeding time.

12. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The discharging mechanism is configured to be switchable between a discharging state and a stop state.

13. The discharging device according to claim 12, wherein: The discharging mechanism further includes a discharging component and a sensor respectively connected to the control module for communication; The sensor is configured to detect a braking position of the discharging component, and the control module brakes the discharging component based on the braking position so that the discharging mechanism switches from the discharging state to the stopping state.

14. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein: The identification part includes a radio frequency identification module and / or an image recognition module.

15. The discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising an alarm module in communication with the control module, configured to issue an alarm signal under abnormal conditions; The control module is configured to perform control based on the alarm signal so that the shielding structure completely shields the opening.

16. The discharging device according to claim 15, wherein: The abnormal condition is at least one of the following conditions: The container and the discharging mechanism are not aligned; The shielding structure and the container are in an intermediate state between the closed state and the open state; When the discharging mechanism discharges material into the container, no material is added to the container; When the discharging mechanism does not discharge material into the container, material is added into the container.

17. A discharging method, used for the discharging device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, comprising: storing the plurality of individual information corresponding to the plurality of targets, each of the individual information at least including the feeding time and the preset feeding times; Identifying a target object to determine whether the corresponding target object is in the identified state or the unidentified state; Based on the first preset condition, the discharging mechanism is controlled to discharge material into the container until the difference between the remaining material weight in the container and the preset unit amount is less than the first preset difference; Controlling based on the second preset condition, and adjusting the degree to which the opening is blocked so as to allow only one corresponding target object to obtain material from the container through the opening; The first preset condition includes that within the feeding time of any individual information in the plurality of individual information, the shielding structure completely shields the opening, and the identification of at least one target object The number of times is less than the corresponding preset feeding number, and the difference between the preset unit amount and the remaining material weight is greater than or equal to the second preset difference; the second preset condition includes that one of the multiple target objects is in the identified state, and the identification number of the corresponding target object in the identified state is less than or equal to the preset feeding number.

18. A computer-readable storage medium having executable codes stored thereon, wherein when the executable codes are executed by a processor, the processor executes the discharging method of claim 17.

Images