System and method for an automated and customizable cooking apparatus

Abstract

The various embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for enabling an automated and customizable cooking apparatus. With a particular focus on Indian cuisine, this machine automates and simplifies the cooking process, from ingredient preparation to dish serving. Users are enabled to customize recipes, monitor water quality, and automate a wide range of cooking options with remote operation and monitoring. The system enables precise ingredient measurements and cooking parameters, resulting in consistently high-quality cooking. Unlike conventional methods, the present invention enables accurate measurement of the weight of ingredients to be added while cooking. The cooking apparatus includes HD / touch screen displays, Internet / Bluetooth connectivity, and voice interaction for recipe customization. The apparatus also enables checking water TDS and confirming the purity of water used in cooking.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AN AUTOMATED AND CUSTOMIZABLE COOKING APPARATUSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims the priority of the Indian Provisional Patent Application filed on November 19, 2023, with the number 202341063009 and titled, “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AN AUTOMATED AND CUSTOMIZABLE COOKING APPARATUS”, the contents of which are incorporated herein by the way of reference.

[0002] The present invention is related to culinary appliances. The present invention is specifically related to a system and method for enabling a customizable machine for cooking multicuisine dishes, with a special emphasis on Indian cuisine. The invention is more particularly related to a system and a method for automating and enhancing the cooking of a plurality of multicuisine dishes by providing an efficient and convenient cooking apparatus.

[0003] In the culinary world, the preparation of multicuisine dishes, especially Indian cuisine, can be a time-consuming and intricate process. Traditional cooking methods often require precise measurements, intricate preparation steps, and constant monitoring. Additionally, maintaining hygiene and controlling the quality of dishes can be challenging.

[0004] Traditional methods rely on manual measurements, risking imprecise quantities that can significantly affect the taste, aroma and texture of the final dish. Indian cuisine, renowned for its diversity and complexity, often requires the meticulous soaking and washing of ingredients like rice, dal, and poha. This process consumes valuable time and necessitates constant vigilance. The nuances of Indian cooking, with intricate spice blends and meticulous techniques, often lead to inconsistent dish outcomes. Even seasoned chefs can struggle to achieve the same level of perfection consistently.

[0005] Preparing multicuisine dishes involves juggling various ingredients, each with its own preparation and cooking requirements. This multitasking can be overwhelming, particularly for elderly people orindividuals with limited culinary experience. Common issues associated with conventional cooking methods include imprecise ingredient measurements, inconsistent dish outcomes, difficulty in multitasking, and the need for manual intervention throughout the cooking process.

[0006] Therefore, there exists a need for a customizable cooking machine with a range of features designed to simplify the cooking process, enhance precision, and cater to various culinary needs. There also exists a need for automating a plurality of cooking-related tasks such as weighing ingredients, soaking, washing and providing the ability to customize recipes to enable consistent and high-quality results. There also exists a need for providing a cooking apparatus that includes modern technology such as HD / touch screen displays, internet / Bluetooth connectivity, and voice interaction for recipe customization. There also exists a need for checking water TDS and confirming the purity of water used in cooking.

[0007] The abovementioned shortcomings, disadvantages and problems are addressed herein, which will be understood by reading and studying the following specification.OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The primary object of the present invention is to provide a system and method for enabling an automated and customizable cooking apparatus.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine for multicuisine dishes with a special emphasis on cuisine such as Indian cuisine, wherein a plurality of ingredients and cooking processes are involved.

[0010] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine for multicuisine dishes that enables soaking and washing options for a plurality of ingredients.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that enables precise ingredient weighing and allows for the addition of even a pinch of ingredients.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that includes separate containers for storage and processing of vegetables, raw materials, and liquids.

[0013] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that is configured with a plurality of preloaded recipes and enable the saving and sharing of customized recipes in digital form.

[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that includes a user-friendly HD / touch screen interface.

[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that includes water TDS checking for water quality assurance.

[0016] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that allows the preparation of multiple dishes simultaneously.

[0017] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that includes options for grinding masala powder and paste.

[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that incorporates a deep-frying function.

[0019] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that caters to a wide range of users, including chefs, hotels, hospitals, educational institutes, PGs, and homes.

[0020] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that offers predefined recipes for patients recommended by doctors.

[0021] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that enables use in moving trucks for on-the-go cooking.

[0022] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that maintains temperature control.

[0023] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that achieves full automation once storage containers are filled.

[0024] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that allows remote operation via the Internet / Bluetooth.

[0025] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that customizes recipes through voice interaction.

[0026] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that offers multiple variants of the cooking machine.

[0027] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that monitors monthly grocery usage and facilitates online ordering.

[0028] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that provides customer support through an AI chatbot.

[0029] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that includes a provision for minimum water storage.

[0030] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that incorporates automatic dish cleaning.

[0031] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that ensures battery backup for uninterrupted operation.

[0032] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that facilitates easy cleaning and refilling of storage containers.

[0033] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that provides software updates based on mobile software updates.

[0034] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that enables compatibility with other smart kitchen appliances and frameworks.

[0035] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that is configured to be controlled and monitored through remote applications configured on a plurality of computing devices.

[0036] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a customizable cooking machine that includes a waste disposal module that enables effective disposal and processing of waste material.

[0037] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0038] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for enabling an automated and customizable cooking apparatus. The embodiments also provide a system and a method for automating a plurality of cooking-related tasks and enhancing the cooking of a plurality of multicuisine dishes by enabling an efficient and convenient cooking apparatus.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a customizable automated cooking machine is provided. With a particular focus on Indian cuisine, this machine automates and simplifies the cooking process, from ingredient preparation to dish serving. Users are enabled to customize recipes, monitor water quality, and automate a wide range of cooking options with remote operation and monitoring.

[0040] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating the preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.

[0041] The other objects, features and advantages will occur to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiment and the accompanying drawings in which:

[0042] illustrates a system for enabling an automated and customizable cooking apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] illustrates a method for automated and customizable cooking apparatus, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Although the specific features of the present invention are shown in some drawings and not in others. This is done for convenience only as each feature may be combined with any or all of the other features in accordance with the present invention.

[0045] In the following detailed description, a reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which the specific embodiments that may be practiced is shown by way of illustration. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments and it is to be understood that other changes may be made without departing from the scope of the embodiments. The following detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0046] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for enabling an automated and customizable cooking apparatus. The embodiments also provide a system and a method for automating a plurality of cooking-related tasks and enhancing the cooking of a plurality of multicuisine dishes by enabling an efficient and convenient cooking apparatus.

[0047] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an automated and customizable cooking apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises a plurality of functional blocks that enable the customization and automation of cooking, including an ingredient handling module, a recipe management interface, a cooking control system, an ingredient dispensing mechanism, a plurality of storage containers, a communication module, a water quality assurance module, an automated cleaning unit, a power management module, and an e-commerce module. The ingredient handling module enables the preparation of ingredients by offering options for soaking, washing, and precise ingredient weighing, thereby reducing manual efforts and ensuring accuracy. The recipe management interface enables a user interface for users to interact with the apparatus, enabling recipe selection, customization, and digital storage. The cooking control system is equipped with a plurality of sensors and configured with a plurality of processes and designed to monitor the cooking process and parameters. The ingredient dispensing mechanism is designed to dispense a plurality of ingredients in pre-set and customizable quantities. The plurality of storage containers store ingredients separately, preserving their qualities and preventing cross-contamination. The communication module enables internet and wireless connectivity for remote operation and software updates. The water quality assurance system checks the purity of water used for cooking. The automated cleaning unit simplifies post-cooking cleaning of the apparatus. The power management module provides power backup and enables uninterrupted operation of the apparatus. The ecommerce module enables users to order any ingredient and raw material necessary for cooking.

[0048] illustrates a system for enabling an automated and customizable cooking apparatus. The system comprises a plurality of ingredient containers 101, a plurality of vegetable containers 102, a plurality of containers for washing and soaking of raw materials 103, a touchscreen 104, an enclosure 105 and a glass top 106.

[0049] illustrates a method for automated and customizable cooking apparatus. The method comprises: Selecting a recipe and customizing the recipe (201); Dispensing a measured quantity of ingredients according to the selected recipe's precise measurements (202); Preparing the ingredients (203); Initiating cooking process and monitoring temperature, ingredient quantities, and a plurality of parameters ensuring accurate cooking (204); Adjusting the cooking parameters in real-time (205); Managing separate cooking zones for multi-dish preparation (206); Providing real-time feedback based on module evaluations during training simulations or real-time interactions (207); Alerting the user on completion of cooking process (208); Automated cleaning of the apparatus after cooking completion (209); and Saving the recipe and cooking parameters for future reference (210).

[0050] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for automated and customizable cooking, the method comprising:

[0051] selecting a recipe and customizing through a touchscreen or remote interface; dispensing a measured quantity of ingredients from a plurality of ingredient containers according to the selected recipe's precise measurements; preparing the ingredients by performing one or more processes including soaking, washing, or grinding as required for the selected recipe; initiating a cooking process controlled by a cooking control system monitoring temperature, ingredient quantities, and a plurality of parameters ensuring accurate cooking; allowing real-time user interaction for adjust cooking parameters through the touchscreen interface or remote application; managing separate cooking zones for multi-dish preparation, ensuring that each dish is prepared independently but simultaneously; alerting the user through the touchscreen interface, sound notifications, or a remote app notification, upon completing the cooking process; automated cleaning of the apparatus after cooking completion; and saving the recipe and cooking parameters for future reference.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the method for automated and customizable cooking further comprising dynamically adjusting ingredient processing times and cooking parameters, wherein the adjustment is based on real-time sensor feedback, including temperature fluctuations, ingredient texture, and moisture levels, thereby enabling adaptive cooking processes to optimize the taste, texture, and consistency of the final dish while accommodating variations in ingredient quality and user preferences.

[0053] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the system for an automated and customizable cooking apparatus is provided, the system comprising: an ingredient handling module, wherein the ingredient handling module is configured to store different types of ingredients separately to maintain their quality and prevent cross-contamination; a recipe management interface, wherein the recipe management interface enables a user interface for users to interact with the apparatus, enabling recipe selection, customization, and digital storage; a cooking control system, wherein the cooking control system is equipped with a plurality of sensors to monitor and regulate cooking parameters including temperature, humidity, and ingredient quantities; an ingredient dispensing mechanism, wherein the ingredient dispensing mechanism is designed to dispense measured quantities of ingredients based on predefined or customizable recipes; a plurality of storage containers, wherein the storage containers store ingredients separately, preserving their qualities and preventing cross-contamination; a communication module, wherein the communication module enables internet and wireless connectivity for remote operation and software updates; a water quality assurance module, wherein the water quality assurance module is configured to assess water purity before usage; an automated cleaning unit, wherein the automated cleaning unit is designed for cleaning the apparatus post-cooking; a washing and soaking container, wherein the washing and soaking container enables cleaning and preparing ingredients such as grains and lentils; and an enclosure, wherein the enclosure is designed for housing the components of the apparatus and providing structural support;

[0054] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the automated and customizable cooking apparatus further comprising a grinding module integrated within the apparatus to grind spices and ingredients as per recipe requirements.

[0055] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the automated and customizable cooking apparatus further comprising an e-commerce integration module that facilitates ingredient ordering based on real-time inventory status.

[0056] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ingredient handling module is configured to store a plurality of types of ingredients separately in dedicated containers to maintain their quality, preserve their freshness, and prevent cross-contamination, with each container being designed to ensure airtight sealing and optimal storage conditions.

[0057] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the recipe management interface is configured to provide a user-friendly touchscreen interface for selecting preloaded recipes, customizing existing recipes, storing customized recipes digitally, and sharing them through a connected network, enabling seamless user interaction and recipe management.

[0058] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the cooking control system is equipped with a plurality of sensors configured to continuously monitor and regulate cooking parameters, including temperature, humidity, and ingredient quantities, ensuring precision cooking and consistent dish quality.

[0059] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the ingredient dispensing mechanism is designed to dispense measured quantities of ingredients with high precision, allowing the dispensing of quantities as small as a pinch, based on predefined recipes or customizable user inputs, thereby ensuring accurate ingredient proportions and maintaining recipe integrity.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the automated and customizable cooking apparatus enables full automation of the cooking process from ingredient preparation to dish completion, including precise ingredient measurement, recipe customization, and post-cooking cleaning.

[0061] Although the embodiments herein are described with various specific embodiments, it will be obvious for a person skilled in the art to practice the embodiments herein with modifications.ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECTS OF INVENTION

[0062] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for enabling an automated and customizable cooking apparatus. The embodiments also provide a system and a method for automating a plurality of cooking-related tasks and enhancing the cooking of a plurality of multicuisine dishes by enabling an efficient and convenient cooking apparatus. The system enables precise ingredient measurements and cooking parameters, resulting in consistently high-quality cooking. Unlike conventional methods, the present invention enables accurate measurement of the weight of ingredients to be added while cooking. The system enables soaking and washing of ingredients such as cereals, grains, lentils and vegetables.

[0063] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such as specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modifications. However, all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the claims.

Claims

A system for an automated and customizable cooking apparatus, the system comprising:an ingredient handling module, wherein the ingredient handling module is configured to store different types of ingredients separately to maintain their quality and prevent cross-contamination;a recipe management interface, wherein the recipe management interface enables a user interface for users to interact with the apparatus, enabling recipe selection, customization, and digital storage;a cooking control system, wherein the cooking control system is equipped with a plurality of sensors to monitor and regulate cooking parameters including temperature, humidity, and ingredient quantities;an ingredient dispensing mechanism, wherein the ingredient dispensing mechanism is designed to dispense measured quantities of ingredients based on predefined or customizable recipes;a plurality of storage containers, wherein the storage containers store ingredients separately, preserving their qualities and preventing cross-contamination;a communication module, wherein the communication module enables internet and wireless connectivity for remote operation and software updates;a water quality assurance module, wherein the water quality assurance module is configured to assess water purity before usage;an automated cleaning unit, wherein the automated cleaning unit is designed for cleaning the apparatus post-cooking;a washing and soaking container, wherein the washing and soaking container enables cleaning and preparing ingredients such as grains and lentils; andan enclosure, wherein the enclosure is designed for housing the components of the apparatus and providing structural support;The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein automated and customizable cooking apparatus further comprising a grinding module integrated within the apparatus to grind spices and ingredients as per recipe requirements.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the automated and customizable cooking apparatus further comprising an e-commerce integration module that facilitates ingredient ordering based on real-time inventory status.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ingredient handling module is configured to store a plurality of types of ingredients separately in dedicated containers to maintain their quality, preserve their freshness, and prevent cross-contamination, with each container being designed to ensure airtight sealing and optimal storage conditions.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the recipe management interface is configured to provide a user-friendly touchscreen interface for selecting preloaded recipes, customizing existing recipes, storing customized recipes digitally, and sharing them through a connected network, enabling seamless user interaction and recipe management.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the cooking control system is equipped with a plurality of sensors configured to continuously monitor and regulate cooking parameters, including temperature, humidity, and ingredient quantities, ensuring precision cooking and consistent dish quality.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the ingredient dispensing mechanism is designed to dispense measured quantities of ingredients with high precision, allowing the dispensing of quantities as small as a pinch, based on predefined recipes or customizable user inputs, thereby ensuring accurate ingredient proportions and maintaining recipe integrity.The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the automated and customizable cooking apparatus enables full automation of the cooking process from ingredient preparation to dish completion, including precise ingredient measurement, recipe customization, and post-cooking cleaning.A method for automated and customizable cooking, the method comprising:selecting a recipe and customizing through a touchscreen or remote interface;dispensing a measured quantity of ingredients from a plurality of ingredient containers according to the selected recipe's precise measurements;preparing the ingredients by performing one or more processes including soaking, washing, or grinding as required for the selected recipe;initiating a cooking process controlled by a cooking control system monitoring temperature, ingredient quantities, and a plurality of parameters ensuring accurate cooking;allowing real-time user interaction for adjust cooking parameters through the touchscreen interface or remote application;managing separate cooking zones for multi-dish preparation, ensuring that each dish is prepared independently but simultaneously;alerts the user through the touchscreen interface, sound notifications, or a remote app notification, upon completing the cooking processperforming an automated cleaning of the apparatus after cooking completion; andsaving the recipe and cooking parameters for future reference.The method as claimed in claim 9, wherein method for automated and customizable cooking further comprising dynamically adjusting ingredient processing times and cooking parameters, wherein the adjustment is based on real-time sensor feedback, including temperature fluctuations, ingredient texture, and moisture levels, thereby enabling adaptive cooking processes to optimize the taste, texture, and consistency of the final dish while accommodating variations in ingredient quality and user preferences.

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