An ameliorated cartridge assembly

Abstract

The present invention provides an ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) for automatic cooking system. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) comprises a cartridge (101) including a plurality of chambers and containers for storing a plurality of ingredients such as spices, oils, sauce, pulses and alike, an automatic dispensing assembly (100) that include one or more valves, dispensers, an outlet (103), a top case (106), sensors for precise and controlled release of the ingredients, an identification module for identifying the ingredients stored in the cartridge and providing real time racking of levels of the ingredients. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) includes a cartridge holder (104) that is configured to rotate the cartridge for dispense the ingredients in a correct sequence based on a recipe followed by the automatic cooking system.

Description

[0001] “AN AMELIORATED CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLY”

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to the field of automatic cooking system. More particularly, the present invention relates to an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system that optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] A cartridge refers to a replaceable, pre-filled container which is specifically manufactured to hold specific ingredients or seasonings for a particular recipe or cooking function. Further, the cartridge contains ingredients in liquid powdered, or granular form such as oils, spices, sauces or other recipe component. Generally, the cartridge is inserted into an automatic cooking machine, where the cartridge dispenses the ingredients during the cooking function.

[0006] However, the currently available cartridges are not able to handle the perishable ingredients that spoil or lose freshness, which limits their usability over time. Further, the cartridges have compatibility issues, inflexibility in recipes, storage and size constraints. Hence, the currently available cartridges are not efficient enough, which ultimately reduces the efficiency of automatic cooking machine.

[0007] W 02024154128A1 discloses robotic chef incorporating feeder station, cooking station, and transport system including actuator for opening and closing the feeders. Further, the robotic chef includes a feeder station, each feeder comprising a dispensing outlet and configured to dispense a raw food material. However, the feeder station of this invention is not made up of food safe material, does not automatically dispense the ingredients and bulky in nature.

[0008] US20170143151A1 discloses cooking device utilizing ingredient cartridge assembly. The devices may comprise a cooking pot, a heat source, a loading track, a propulsion system, a loading compartment, and a controller. The loading compartment may be located along the loading track. However, this invention fails to provide an automatic energy efficient solution, moreover this invention is not temperature sensitive.

[0009] Several modifications have been done in the cartridge assembly of the automatic cooking system, still there is no cartridge assembly available in the market that is made up of food safe material, automatically dispense out the ingredients in an optimized manner, has a modular structure, temperature sensitive, and energy efficient.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need of an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system that optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner.

[0011] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The main object of the present invention is to provide an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system that optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide an ameliorated cartridge assembly that is made up of lightweight, durable and food-safe material.

[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an ameliorated cartridge assembly that operates via a precision dispensing mechanism.

[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an ameliorated cartridge assembly that is modular and customizable, thereby allowing for easy swapping based on the recipe or cooking requirement.

[0016] Still another object of the present invention is to provide an ameliorated cartridge assembly that are temperature-sensitive and highly energy efficient.

[0017] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system that optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner and is modular and customizable, thereby allowing for easy swapping based on the recipe or cooking requirement.

[0018] In an embodiment, the present invention provides an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system. The ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises a base housing that is compatible with a slot or docketing area of the automatic cooking system. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises a cartridge including a plurality of interchangeable chambers and containers for storing a plurality of ingredients such as spices, oils, sauce, pulses and alike along with a plurality of ports that allow each cartridge to connect with the automatic cooking system for enabling seamless transmission of the plurality of ingredients. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises an outer casing that is made from durable, heat resistant materials and the outer casing protects one or more internal components and ensures compatibility with the automatic cooking system. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises an automatic dispensing assembly that further include one or more valves, dispensers, sensors for precise and controlled release of the ingredients. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises an identification module for identifying the ingredients stored in the cartridge and providing real time racking of levels of the ingredients. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly include a temperature management module that include heating element and a cooling element for keeping the ingredients at the correct temperature. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly include a cartridge holder that is configured to rotate the cartridge for dispense the ingredients in a correct sequence based on a recipe followed by the automatic cooking system.

[0019] The above objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the hereinafter set forth brief description of the drawings, detailed description of the invention, and claims appended herewith.

[0020] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS An understanding of the ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the following drawings:

[0021] Figure 1 is an exploded view of the ameliorated cartridge assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] The present invention will now be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0024] Many aspects of the invention can be better understood with references made to the drawings below. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed upon clearly illustrating the components of the present invention. Moreover, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts through the several views in the drawings. Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention, it is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not limited in their application to the details of construction and to the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The embodiments of the invention are capable of being practiced and carried out in various ways. In addition, the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0025] The present invention now will be described hereinafter with reference to the detailed description, in which some, but not all embodiments of the invention are indicated. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. The present invention is described fully herein with non-limiting embodiments and exemplary experimentation.

[0026] The present invention relates to an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system that optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner and is modular and customizable, thereby allowing for easy swapping based on the recipe or cooking requirement.

[0027] In an embodiment, the present invention provides an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system. The ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises a cartridge including a plurality of chambers and containers for storing a plurality of ingredients such as spices, oils, sauce, pulses and alike. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises an automatic dispensing assembly that further include one or more valves, dispensers, sensors for precise and controlled release of the ingredients. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises an identification module for identifying the ingredients stored in the cartridge and providing real time racking of levels of the ingredients. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly include a temperature management module that include heating element and a cooling element for keeping the ingredients at the correct temperature. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly include a cartri dge holder that is configured to rotate the cartridge for dispense the ingredients in a correct sequence based on a recipe followed by the automatic cooking system.

[0028] Referring to Figure 1, an exploded view of the ameliorated cartridge assembly is depicted. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) comprises a cartridge (101) including a plurality of chambers and containers for storing a plurality of ingredients such as spices, oils, sauce, pulses and alike. The plurality of chambers and containers have modular structure for avoiding mixing of the ingredients. Further, the shape and size of the cartridge (101), plurality of chambers and containers are not limited to any specific shape and size. Further, the shape and size of the cartridge (101), plurality of chambers and containers depends on requirement. In an implementation, the cartridge (101) also include airtight seals or vacuum sealed lids or cover (102) for preventing oxidation, moisture absorption or flavor loss, thereby keeping the ingredients fresh over time.

[0029] Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) comprises an automatic dispensing assembly that further include one or more valves, dispensers, an outlet (103), a top case (106) and sensors for precise and controlled release of the ingredients.

[0030] The cartridge (101) have a modular design that fits securely into a designated cartridge holder (104), ensuring no spillage or leakage of ingredients during the cooking process. The smooth internal surfaces of the cartridge (101) help prevent ingredients from sticking, allowing for cleaner dispensing and minimizing food waste. This makes the process more efficient and reduces the need for constant refilling or manual intervention.

[0031] Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) comprises an identification module for identifying the ingredients stored in the cartridge (101) and providing real time racking of levels of the ingredients. In an implementation, the identification module utilizes one or more sensors that identify not only the type of cartridge (101) being used but also track the remaining quantity of the ingredient. This information is fed back to the system to alert the user when the cartridge (101) is running low, ensuring a seamless cooking experience without interruptions due to ingredient shortages. Further the sensors are configured to verify that the correct cartridge (101) are installed for a particular recipe, reducing the risk of ingredient mix-ups.

[0032] Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) include a temperature management module that include heating element and a cooling element for keeping the ingredients at the correct temperature. The heating element include one or more embedded heating coils or heating pads within the walls of individual chamber of the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100). Likewise, the cooling element includes one or more thermoelectric cooling modules.

[0033] Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) include a cartridge holder (104) that is configured to rotate the cartridge (101) for dispense the ingredients in a correct sequence based on a recipe followed by the automatic cooking system. Further, the cartridge holder (104) include motorized rotation module which rotates the cartridge (101) to position the appropriate ingredient chamber above or near a dispensing port. Further, the rotation is guided by a controller of the system according to the recipe. Furthermore, the cartridge holder (104) rotates at different speeds depending on the requirement of the recipe. For example, the cartridge holder (104) may rotate the cartridge (101) in slow speed for dispensing the ingredients slowly.

[0034] EXAMPLE 1

[0035] Preferred implementation of the Present Invention The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) for automatic cooking system that optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner. Further, the following features of the present invention helps to optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner.

[0036] The one or more cartridges (101) in the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) are made from lightweight, durable, and food-safe materials, such as biphenyl A (BPA)-free plastics. These materials are specifically chosen for their ability to withstand high temperatures encountered during cooking while maintaining safety and durability. The composition of lightweight, durable, and food-safe materials also contributes to thermal insulation, in other words the retain heat effectively, reducing energy wastage and preventing unnecessary heat transfer, which is essential for overall energy efficiency.

[0037] One of the key features of one or more cartridges (101) in the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) is the structure for precise and controlled dispensing of ingredients. The cartridge (101) have modular structure that fits securely into a designated cartridge holder (104), ensuring no spillage or leakage of ingredients during the cooking process. The smooth internal surfaces of the cartridge (101) help prevent ingredients from sticking, allowing for cleaner dispensing and minimizing food waste. This makes the process more efficient and reduces the need for constant refilling or manual intervention. The one or more cartridges (101) in the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) are intended to be modular and customizable, allowing for easy swapping based on the recipe or cooking requirement. This modularity enables the system to hold and dispense a variety of ingredients, with each cartridge (101) optimized for the specific consistency, flow, or behavior of the ingredient it contains. For example, thicker sauces might be stored in cartridges (101) with larger nozzles, while finer seasonings might use a different type of cartridge intended for precise sprinkling.

[0038] The one or more cartridges (101) in the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) are temperature-sensitive i.e. said cartridge (101) is pre-heated or pre-cooled depending on the ingredient they hold. This ensures that the ingredients are ready for optimal dispensing at the correct temperature without requiring additional heat or cooling processes during operation. By preconditioning the cartridges (101), the automatic cooking system helps maintain efficiency by avoiding extra energy use that might otherwise be needed to bring ingredients to the required temperature.

[0039] The cartridge holder (104) is configure to incorporate a rotary mechanism that automatically rotates cartridge (101) to dispense ingredients in the correct sequence, based on the recipe being followed. The structure of the cartridge holder (104) allows the system to precisely control the order and amount of ingredients released into the cooking chamber, enhancing automation and reducing human error. Moreover, the cartridge holder (104) is engineered for energy efficiency. For instance, the dispensing mechanism might only activate when necessary, based on sensor-based technology that detects when the cartridge (101) is in place and ready to dispense. This approach prevents unnecessary mechanical movement, reducing energy consumption. Additionally, the cartridge holder (104) is structured for easy insertion and removal of cartridge (101), reducing the need for complex mechanical parts and thus minimizing energy usage further.

[0040] The cartridge holder (104) also include one or more smart sensors that identify not only the type of cartridge being used but also track the remaining quantity of the ingredient. This information could be fed back to the system to alert users when a cartridge (101) is running low, ensuring a seamless cooking experience without interruptions due to ingredient shortages. These sensors are used to verify that the correct cartridges are installed for a particular recipe, reducing the risk of ingredient mix-ups. Overall, the combination of advanced materials, precision engineering, modular design, and energy-efficient features makes these cartridges (101) an integral part of an automated, intelligent cooking system. Hence, the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) contribute to more efficient, controlled, and flexible culinary operations.

[0041] Further, the structure of the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) is typically modular and customizable to allow for flexibility, ease of use, and versatility in various cooking processes. The modular structure of the ameliorated cartridge assembly ( 100) allows individual components to be added, removed, or replaced as needed, providing flexibility based on the cooking device’s requirements.

[0042] The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) include the base housing that acts as a main body that holds the various internal components securely. The base housing is constructed to be compatible with the slot or docking area. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) include a plurality of cartridge or chambers or containers that hold different substances, such as fuel, water, ingredients, or even sensors. The chambers are constructed to be easily swapped out or refilled. Further, the connector ports allow the cartridge to connect to the cooking device, enabling fluid or gas flow, power supply, and data transmission. The connector ports are constructed to be universal, so the cartridge (101) easily connect with different devices.

[0043] Further, customization is achieved by allowing different components (such as removable tanks or reservoirs, sensor integration slots) to be changed or adjusted based on cooking needs.

[0044] The removable tanks or reservoirs are specific containers within the cartridge (101) that hold materials like fuel, water, or ingredients. For example, a user choose a larger tank for long cooking sessions or smaller tanks for quick tasks. Further, the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) include slots where different types of sensors (temperature, pressure, etc.) are installed, depending on the required monitoring needs. Further, main components of the cartridge assembly aside from modular and customizable elements, the ameliorated cartridge assembly comprises of several core components essential for its operation such as outer casing, flow control system, sensors, electrical connector, and safety mechanism.

[0045] The outer casing is made from durable, heat-resistant materials like composite plastic. The outer casing protects the internal components and ensures compatibility with the cooking device’s compartment.

[0046] The flow control system includes valves and regulators, controls the release of the cartridge’s contents. Flow control ensures that fuel, water, or ingredients are dispensed in a controlled manner.

[0047] The sensors are integrated sensors for temperature or level monitoring enhance functionality and safety. The sensors relay real-time data to the automatic cooking system. For cartridges (101) that need power for sensors or heating elements, electrical connectors link the cartridge (101) with the power supply. Further safety mechanisms include self-locking mechanisms that include a buckle set (105) for locking cover (102) ensuring the cartridge (101) remains secure and safe during use.

[0048] Therefore, the present invention provides an ameliorated cartridge assembly for automatic cooking system that optimizes cooking process in a controlled and automated manner, that is made up of lightweight, durable and food-safe material, that operates via a precision dispensing mechanism, that is modular and customizable, thereby allowing for easy swapping based on the recipe or cooking requirement, temperature-sensitive and highly energy efficient.

[0049] Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein will readily occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0050] The foregoing description of embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the invention. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principle of the invention and its practical application to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

CLAIMSaim:

1. An ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) comprises:a cartridge (101); andan cartridge holder (104);wherein:said cartridge (101) include a plurality of chambers and containers for storing a plurality of ingredients;said cartridge holder (104) is configured to rotate the cartridge (101) for dispense the ingredients in a sequence based on a recipe;said ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) comprises:i) an automatic dispensing assembly (100) that include one or more valves, dispensers, sensors, an outlet (103) and a top case for precise and controlled release of the plurality of ingredients;ii) an identification module for identifying plurality of the ingredients stored in the cartridge (101) and providing a set of real time racking of levels of the ingredients; andiii) a temperature management module that include heating element and a cooling element for keeping the plurality of ingredients at an optimal temperature.

2. The ameliorated cartridge assembly ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said plurality of chambers and containers have modular structure for avoiding mixing of the plurality of ingredients.

3. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cartridge (101) is sealed with at least one of airtight seal, a cover (102) and avacuum sealed lid for preventing oxidation, moisture absorption or flavor loss, thereby keeping the ingredients fresh over time.

4. The ameliorated cartridge assembly ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said identification module utilize one or more sensors that identify a type of cartridge (101) and remaining quantity of the plurality of ingredients.

5. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein said one or more sensors in the identification module are configured to verify that the correct cartridge (101) is installed for a particular recipe, reducing the risk of ingredient mix-ups.

6. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said heating element include one or more embedded heating coils or heating pads within the walls of individual chamber of the ameliorated cartridge assembly (100).

7. The ameliorated cartridge assembly ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said cooling element includes one or more thermoelectric cooling modules.

8. The ameliorated cartridge assembly ( 100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said cartridge holder (104) include a motorized rotation module which rotates the cartridge (101) to position the appropriate ingredient chamber above or near a dispensing port.

9. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein said rotation is guided by a controller according to the recipe.

10. The ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said ameliorated cartridge assembly (100) include a buckle set (105) for locking cover (102) ensuring the cartridge (101) remains secure and safe during use.

Images