An automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device

Abstract

The present disclosure proposes an automated spice dispensing system (100) for an automatic cooking device (101) that dispenses plurality of spices according to pre-programmed recipes or user-defined preferences, thereby ensuring consistent flavour in every dish. The automated spice dispensing system (100) comprises a base plate (102), a spice unit (104), an alignment assembly (106), a dispensing assembly (108), a control unit (126), and a user interface (126A). The automated spice dispensing system (100) operates independently, thereby ensuring precise control over spice usage to optimize the cooking process without human interference. The automated spice dispensing system (100) that facilitates the automatic transfer of spices from plurality of compartments (112) between cooking stages. The automated spice dispensing system device (100) maintains consistent dish quality by accurately dispensing the respective spice between the cooking stages.

Description

An Automated Spice Dispensing System for an Automatic Cooking DeviceDESCRIPTION:Field of the invention:

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the technical field of automated cooking appliances, and in specific relates to an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device that dispenses plurality of spices according to pre-programmed recipes or user-defined preferences, thereby ensuring consistent flavour in every dish.Background of the invention:

[0002] Automated cooking devices have become increasingly popular due to their potential to simplify meal preparation by automating key aspects of cooking, such as temperature control, stirring, and timing. These devices aim to reduce human error, save time, and improve the overall cooking experience, especially for busy users. However, despite these advancements, many automated cooking devices still fall short in critical areas, requiring significant manual intervention, particularly during the preparation and handling of ingredients. One of the primary limitations is the lack of an integrated ingredient management system that can automatically handle the measurement, loading, and feeding of ingredients into the cooking unit.

[0003] With the rise of automated cooking devices, convenience and precision in culinary preparation have become increasingly accessible to users. These devices often incorporate mechanisms for dispensing spices, stirring, ingredient handling, and other tasks, making cooking more efficient and consistent. However, as these appliances aim to handle complex, multi-step recipes, they must balance automation with energy efficiency. One critical area of focus is the spice-dropping mechanism, which has become integral to many smart cooking devices.

[0004] In many current automated cooking appliances, multiple motors are employed to achieve precise control over spice dispensing. Each motor typically powers specific tasks like spice compartment rotation, alignment, and the dispensing of spices into the cooking vessel. While this design ensures accurate and controlled spice release, the addition of multiple motors contributes to significant energy consumption. This poses an issue in energy-intensiveappliances where the motors add substantial power demand to the device's heating, stirring, and frying processes. Consequently, using multiple motors can lead to higher operational costs, reduced efficiency, and an increase in overall appliance complexity.

[0005] To achieve reliable spice dispensing, most smart cooking devices integrate individual motors for different components involved in the spice-dropping process. For example, separate motors may be used to rotate spice compartments, align compartments with the feeding hole, or activate dispensing mechanisms like rods or levers. These motors provide the necessary accuracy and timing for spice release, making it possible to automate ingredient addition for precise cooking. Some devices may even incorporate additional motors for tasks like ingredient mixing, grinding, and stirring, aiming to enhance the versatility of the cooking process.

[0006] While the existing motorized approach offers precise control, it introduces significant drawbacks. Firstly, the increased motor count drives up the appliance's energy consumption, which can be a concern for users seeking efficient and cost-effective devices. Each motor adds its own energy demand, and collectively, they contribute to a substantial power drain over extended cooking times, particularly for appliances running complex recipes. Secondly, multiple motors increase the system's mechanical complexity, making the device bulkier and more prone to wear and tear, which can result in higher maintenance costs and shorter device lifespan. Finally, the increased number of components complicates manufacturing and assembly, raising the overall cost of production and impacting affordability for consumers.

[0007] To address these limitations, there is a need for fully automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device that strategically consolidates the functions of spice alignment and dispensing, thereby ensuring efficient and consistent ingredient handling while minimizing manual intervention. Further, there is also a need for an automated spice dispensing system with an integrated ingredient management system that significantly enhances the convenience, speed, and precision of meal preparation, thereby improving the quality of the final dish and providing a more user-friendly and efficient cooking solution.Objectives of the invention:

[0008] The primary objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device that dispenses plurality of spices according to pre-programmed recipes or user-defined preferences, thereby ensuring consistent flavor in every dish.

[0009] Another objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system that operates independently, thereby ensuring precise control over spice usage to optimize the cooking process without human interference.

[0010] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system that facilitates the automatic transfer of spices from plurality of compartments between cooking stages without user intervention.

[0011] Another objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system that maintains consistent dish quality.

[0012] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system that enhances ease of use and minimizes cleaning efforts.

[0013] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system that simplifies the loading processes of spices through user-friendly features, thereby reducing preparation time and minimizing the risk of spills or mishandling.

[0014] The other objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system that significantly reduces the need for manual intervention during the cooking process, thereby allowing users to enjoy a more convenient and efficient cooking experience.

[0015] Yet another objective of the invention is to provide an automated spice dispensing system that enhances the overall user experience through a user-friendly interface that offers real-time feedback on ingredient measurements and intuitive controls for managing the cooking process.Summary of the invention:

[0016] The present disclosure proposes an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device. The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. It is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate thescope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0017] In order to overcome the above deficiencies of the prior art, the present disclosure is to solve the technical problem to provide an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device that strategically performs functions of compartment alignment and spice dispensing according to pre-programmed recipes or user-defined preferences to ensure consistent flavor in every dish.

[0018] According to an aspect, the invention provides an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device. The automated spice dispensing system comprises a base plate, a spice unit, an alignment assembly, a dispensing assembly, and a control unit. In one embodiment herein, the spice unit is configured to store various types of spices. The spice unit comprises a protective lid, which is a removable lid for preventing spices or other small ingredients from spilling out from the spice unit.

[0019] The spice unit is mounted on a base plate through a rotatable shaft. The spice unit is configured with plurality of compartments. The base plate is configured with a feeding hole, which is covered by an openable lid. The rotatable shaft is configured to rotate around an axis to align each of the compartments with the feeding hole. The rotatable shaft has one end attacked to a support gear. The openable lid is mechanically connected to a base gear. The base gear is disposed on the base plate at the centre. Each of the compartments is configured to hold a specific spice. Further, each of the compartments comprises a dispensing opening at a base.

[0020] In one embodiment, the alignment assembly comprises a first driving unit, and a first drive gear. The first driving unit is configured to rotate the spice unit to align at least one compartment of the plurality of compartments with the feeding hole of the base plate, thereby positioning at least one spice of the plurality of spices for dispensing. The first drive gear is intermeshed between the support gear and the base gear. Upon activation of the first driving unit, the first drive gear is configured to rotate the rotatable shaft and the base gear simultaneously for aligning the at least one compartment, and uncovering the feeding hole.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first driving unit is enclosed in a casing. The casing is designed with a pair of slots opposite to each other. The first drive gear is connected to the first driving unit through a shaft. In one embodiment, at least one feed rod is rotatably disposed at a base of each of the compartments. Each feed rod is configured to dispense the spice from the at least one compartment through the feeding hole when the feeding hole is opened. The at least one feed rod is fixed in the dispensing opening of each of the compartments. Each feed rod is configured with a portion cavity that aligns with the dispensing opening of each of the compartments.

[0022] The dispensing assembly is configured to rotate the at least one feed rod when the at least one compartment is aligned with the feeding hole, thereby enabling controlled dispensing of the at least one spice of the plurality of spices into a cooking vessel. The dispensing assembly comprises a second driving unit, a second drive gear, a feed gear, an intermediate gear, a first rack, and a second rack. The second drive gear is connected to the second driving unit through a shaft, and operatively engaged with the first rack.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first rack is attached to the first driving unit, and protrudes from one of the pair of slots of the casing. The second rack is attached to the first driving unit, and protrudes from one of the pair of slots of the casing. The intermediate gear is intermeshed between the second rack and the feed gear. The feed gear is configured with a set of clampers, which is configured to detachably attach to at least one support column of the at least one feed rod. Once attached to the support column of the at least one feed rod. The feed gear is configured to rotate the at least one feed rod due activation of the second driving unit.

[0024] According to an aspect, the invention provides a method for dispensing spices using the automated spice dispensing system. At one step, the control unit activates the first driving unit. The first driving unit is connected to the first drive gear, the first drive gear is intermeshed with the support gear of the rotatable shaft. At another step, the spice unit is rotated by the first driving unit to align the at least one compartment containing the at least one spice of the plurality of spices with the feeding hole. At another step, the control unit activates the second driving unit for moving the first rack and the second rack simultaneously to engage and rotate the intermediate gear by the second rack. At another step, the at leastone feed rod of the at least one compartment is engaged with the feed gear by converting the linear motion of the second rack into rotational motion. Further at another step, the at least one feed rod of the at least one compartment is rotated by the second driving unit to dispense the at least one spice of the plurality of spices in controlled amounts through the feeding hole into the cooking vessel.

[0025] Further, objectsand advantages of the present invention will be apparent from a study of the following portion of the specification, the claims, and the attached drawings.Detailed description of drawings:

[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention, and, together with the description, explain the principles of the invention.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0028] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of the automated spice dispensing system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0029] FIG. 2B illustrates an exploded top view of a spice unit of the automated spice dispensing system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 2C illustrates an exploded bottom view of the spice unit, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0031] FIG. 2D illustrates an exploded view of a dispensing assembly of the automated spice dispensing system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0032] FIG. 3A illustrates a schematic view depicting working of an alignment assembly of the automated spice dispensing system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0033] FIG. 3B illustrates a schematic view depicting rotation of each of the compartments, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0034] FIG. 4A illustrates a schematic view depicting working of the dispensing assembly of the automated spice dispensing system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 4B illustrates a schematic view depicting engagement of a set of clampers holding a support column of at least one feed rod, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIG. 4C illustrates a schematic view depicting rotation of the at least one feed rod, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method for dispensing spices using the automated spice dispensing system, in accordance to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.Detailed invention disclosure:

[0038] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps.

[0039] The present disclosure has been made with a view towards solving the problem with the prior art described above, and it is an object of the present invention to provide an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device that strategically consolidates the functions of spice alignment and dispensing.

[0040] According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 1 refers to a perspective view of an automated spice dispensing system 100 for an automatic cooking device 101. The automated spice dispensing system 100 enhances convenience, speed, and precision in meal preparation, resulting in improved food quality and offering a more user-friendly, efficient cooking solution. In one embodiment herein, the automated spice dispensing system 100 comprises a base plate 102, a spice unit 104, an alignment assembly 106, a dispensing assembly 108, a control unit 126, and a user interface 126A.

[0041] In one embodiment herein, the spice unit 104 is configured to store various types of spices. The spice unit 104 comprises a protective lid 128, which is a removable lid for preventing spices or other small ingredients from spilling out from the spice unit 104.

[0042] In one embodiment, the alignment assembly 106 is configured to rotate the spice unit 104for placing at least one compartment 112 in a dispensing positioned for dispensing a spice from the compartment 112.

[0043] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2A refers to a perspective view of the automated spice dispensing system. FIG. 2B refers to an exploded top view of the spice unit 104. FIG. 2C refers to an exploded bottom view of the spice unit 104. In one embodiment, the spice unit 104 is mounted on a base plate 102 through a rotatable shaft 116. The spice unit 104 is configured with plurality of compartments 112. Each of the compartments 112 is configured to store at least one spice of plurality of spices. The plurality of spices includes, but is not limited to, ground spices, whole spices, herbal spices, blended spices, chili varieties, exotic spices, and seasoning salts. The ground spices include, but are not limited to, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and nutmeg. The whole spices include, but are not limited to, cloves, cardamom pods, star anise, bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds. The herbal spices include, but are not limited to, dried basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, and marjoram. The blended spices include, but are not limited to, garam masala, curry powder, taco seasoning, Chinese five-spice, and ras el hanout. The chili varieties include, but are not limited to, red chili flakes, dried chilies, chipotle powder, and cayenne pepper. The exotic spices include, but are not limited to, saffron, sumac, fenugreek seeds, ajwain, and amchur (mango powder). The seasoning salts include, but are not limited to, celery salt, garlic salt, onion salt, and seasoned salt.

[0044] In one embodiment, the base plate 102 is configured with a feeding hole 110, which is covered by an openable lid 110A. The rotatable shaft 116 is configured to rotate around an axis to align the compartments 112 with the feeding hole 110. The rotatable shaft 116 has one end attached to a support gear 116A. The openable lid 110A is mechanically connected to a base gear 102A. The base gear 102A is disposed on the base plate 102 at the centre. Each of the compartments 112 is configured to hold a specific spice. Further, each of the compartments 112 comprises a dispensing opening 112A at a base.

[0045] In one embodiment, the alignment assembly 106 is configured to rotate the spice unit 104 for aligning at least one compartment 112 of the plurality of compartments 112 with the feeding hole 110, thereby dispensing the at least one spice present in the at least onecompartment 112. The alignment assembly 106 comprises a first driving unit 114 that is connected to a first drive gear 114A through a drive shaft. The first drive gear 114A is intermeshed with the support gear 116A, which is placed at one end of the rotatable shaft 116. In preferred embodiment, the first drive gear 114A is intermeshed between the support gear 116A and the base gear 102A.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first driving unit 114 is configured to rotate the spice unit 104 to align the at least one compartment 112 with the feeding hole 110 of the base plate 102, thereby positioning the at least one at least one spice of the plurality of spices for dispensing. Upon activation of the first driving unit 114, the first drive gear 114A is rotates the rotatable shaft 116 and the base gear 102A simultaneously. The rotation of the base gear 102A is configured to uncover the feeding hole 110. The rotation of the rotatable shaft 116 rotate the spice unit 104 for aligning the at least one compartment 112 for dispensing the least one at least one spice of the plurality of spices.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first driving unit 114 is enclosed in a casing 115. The casing 115 is designed with a pair of slots 115A opposite to each other. A first rack 122A is positioned in one of the pair of slots 115A. A second rack 122B is positioned in one of the pair of slots 115A.

[0048] In one embodiment, at least one feed rod 118 is rotatably disposed at a bottom portion of each of the compartments 112. The at least one feed rod 118 is configured to dispense the at least one spice of the plurality of spices from the compartment 112 that is aligned with the feeding hole 110 when the feeding hole 110 is opened. The at least one feed rod 118 is fixed in the dispensing opening 112A of each of the compartments 112. Each feed rod 118 is configured with a portion cavity 118A that aligns with the dispensing opening 112A of each of the compartments 112. The portion cavity 118A is configured to allow precise control of spice release. Each feed rod 118 includes a support column 118B positioned at both ends of the feed rod 118.

[0049] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 2D refers to an exploded view of the dispensing assembly 108. The dispensing assembly 108 is configured to rotate the at least one feed rod 118 when each of the compartments 112 is aligned with the feeding hole 110, thereby enabling controlled dispensing of the at least one spice of theplurality of spices into a cooking vessel 10 of the automatic cooking device 101. The dispensing assembly 108 comprises a second driving unit 120, a second drive gear 120A, a feed gear 124A, and an intermediate gear 124B.

[0050] In one embodiment, the second driving unit 120 is fixed on the base plate 102 through a holder support 121. The second drive gear 120A is connected to the second driving unit 120 through a shaft, and operatively engaged with the first rack 122A. The first rack 122A is attached to the first driving unit 114, and protrudes from one of the pair of slots 115A of the casing 115. The second rack 122B is attached to the first driving unit 114, and protrudes from one of the pair of slots 115A of the casing 115. The intermediate gear 124B is intermeshed between the second rack 122B and the feed gear 124A. The feed gear 124A is configured with a set of clampers 125 to securely and detachably hold the at least one feed rod 118 of the at least one compartment 112 that is aligned with the feeding hole 110. Once attached to the support column 118B of the at least one feed rod 118. The feed gear 124A is configured to rotate the at least one feed rod 118 due activation of the second driving unit 120.

[0051] In one embodiment, the second driving unit 120, the first rack 122A, and the second rack 122B are configured to be operated in synchronization, thereby controlling the rotation of the at least one feed rod 118 to dispense a precise amount of spice when the at least one compartment 112 aligns with the feeding hole 110.

[0052] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 3A refers to a schematic view depicting working of the alignment assembly 106. FIG. 3B refers to a schematic view depicting rotation of each of the compartments 112. Upon activation of the first driving unit 114, the first drive gear 114A is rotates the rotatable shaft 116 and the base gear 102A simultaneously. The rotation of the base gear 102A is configured to uncover the feeding hole 110. The rotation of the rotatable shaft 116 rotate the spice unit 104 for aligning the at least one compartment 112 for dispensing the least one at least one spice of the plurality of spices.

[0053] To initiate the cooking process, the user interacts with the user interface 126A to select a desired dish from a menu of options. Upon selection, the control unit 126 communicates with a cloud server to retrieve recipe instructions for the selected dish. The recipe instructions include specific details on the timing and quantity of spices required duringa cooking process. This connectivity allows for real-time recipe updates, ensuring the cooking device can access an extensive and customizable database of recipes.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 3A, once the recipe has been retrieved and the cooking process begins, the control unit 126 activates the first driving unit 114. This activation initiates the rotation of the spice unit 104, for aligning each compartments 112 based on the recipe. The first drive gear 114A, which is connected to the first driving unit 114, is strategically intermeshed with both the support gear 116A and the base gear 102A. When the first driving unit 114 is activated, the first drive gear 114A rotates, thereby simultaneously turning the rotatable shaft 116 and the base gear 102A. This synchronized movement ensures that each of the compartments 112 aligns precisely with the feeding hole 110, positioning each of the compartments 112 above the cooking vessel 10 and preparing it for spice dispensing. Additionally, the base gear 102A is connected to the openable lid 110A that unlocks and uncovers the feeding hole 110, allowing spices to be dispensed when each of the compartments 112 is in position.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 3B, the spice unit 104 includes the plurality of compartments 112, each designated for a different type of spice. This allows for a versatile cooking experience, where the device can add various spices in the required sequence and quantity according to the recipe. The spices contained in the plurality of compartments 112 include, but are not limited to, commonly used cooking spices such as salt, pepper, turmeric, cumin, cinnamon, paprika, and garlic powder. The user can also customize the plurality of compartments 112 to suit their preferred cooking ingredients, making the device adaptable to a wide range of culinary styles.

[0056] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 4A refers to a schematic view depicting working of the dispensing assembly 108. FIG. 4B refers to a schematic view depicting engagement of the clampers 125 holding the support column 118B of the at least one feed rod 118. FIG. 4C refers to a schematic view depicting rotation of the at least one feed rod 118. Once the at least one compartment 112 is positioned over the feeding hole 110, the control unit 126 deactivates the first driving unit 114 to lock the compartment in place. The control unit 126 then activates the second driving unit 120 to initiate the spice-dispensing process.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 4A, upon activation, the second driving unit 120 drives the second drive gear 120A, which moves along the first rack 122A. Since the first rack 122A is attached to the first driving unit 114, it shifts forward, causing the second rack 122B, also connected to the first driving unit 114, to move in unison. As the second rack 122B advances, it engages with the intermediate gear 124B. The continued rotation of the second driving unit 120 causes the second drive gear 120A to push the second rack 122B further, thereby rotating the intermediate gear 124B. This rotation of the intermediate gear 124B transfers motion to the feed gear 124A, which is intermeshed with the intermediate gear 124B, initiating the feed gear's rotation.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 4B, the feed gear 124A is equipped with the clampers 125 designed to securely hold the support column 118B of the at least one feed rod 118 in place. As the feed gear 124A rotates, the clampers 125 engage with the support column 118B, ensuring the at least one feed rod 118 of each of the compartments 112 remains fixed during the spicedispensing process.

[0059] Referring to FIG. 4C, with the second driving unit 120 in continuous rotation, the second drive gear 120A drives the second rack 122B forward, maintaining the rotation of both the intermediate gear 124B and the feed gear 124A. This synchronized movement causes the at least one feed rod 118 of each of the compartments 112 to rotate steadily. As the at least one feed rod 118 turns, the spice contained in each of the compartments 112 is gradually released through the feeding hole 110 into the cooking vessel 10, allowing for precise and controlled spice dispensing as required by the recipe.

[0060] According to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, FIG. 5 refers to a flowchart 500 of a method for dispensing spices using the automated spice dispensing system 100. At step 502, the control unit 126 activates the first driving unit 114. In one embodiment, the control unit 126 is configured to transmit a first control signal to the first driving unit 114 to rotate the spice unit 104 and align the at least one compartment 112 with the at least one feeding hole 110. The first driving unit 114 is connected to the first drive gear 114A, the first drive gear 114A is intermeshed with the support gear 116A of the rotatable shaft 116. At step 504, the spice unit 104 is rotated by the first driving unit 114 to align each of thecompartments 112 containing the at least one spice of the plurality of spices with the feeding hole 110.

[0061] At step 506, the control unit 126 activates the second driving unit 120 for moving the first rack 122A and the second rack 122B simultaneously to engage and rotate the intermediate gear 124B by the second rack 122B. In one embodiment, the control unit 126 is configured to transmit a second control signal to the second driving unit 120 to actuate the at least one feed rod 118 of the at least one compartment 112, thereby releasing the at least one spice of the plurality of spices into the cooking vessel 10.

[0062] In one embodiment, the control unit 126 is configured to operate the first driving unit 114 and the second driving unit 120 sequentially, rotating the spice unit 104 to align the at least one compartment 112 before actuating the at least one feed rod 118 to release the at least one spice from the plurality of spices.

[0063] At step 508, the at least one feed rod 118 of each of the compartments 112 is engaged with the feed gear 124A by converting the linear motion of the second rack 122B into rotational motion. Further at step 510, the at least one feed rod 118 of each of the compartments 112 is rotated by the second driving unit 120 to dispense the at least one spice of the plurality of spices in controlled amounts through the feeding hole 110 into the cooking vessel 10.

[0064] Numerous advantages of the present disclosure may be apparent from the discussion above. In accordance with the present disclosure, an automated spice dispensing system for an automatic cooking device is disclosed that strategically consolidates the functions of spice alignment and dispensing.

[0065] The automated spice dispensing system 100 with dedicated spices, aimed at improving the preparation of complex recipes. The automated spice dispensing system 100 operates independently, allowing precise control over spices for cooking a dish is optimized without human interference. The automated spice dispensing system 100 enables automatic spices transfer between cooking stages without user intervention. The automated spice dispensing system 100 maintains consistent dish quality. The automated spice dispensing system 100 enhances ease of use and minimizing cleaning efforts. The automated spicedispensing system 100 simplifies the loading processes of spices through user-friendly features, thereby reducing preparation time and minimizing the risk of spills or mishandling.

[0066] The automated spice dispensing system 100 significantly reduces the need for manual intervention during the cooking process, thereby allowing users to enjoy a more convenient and efficient cooking experience. The automated spice dispensing system 100 enhances the overall user experience through a user-friendly interface that offers real-time feedback on ingredient measurements and intuitive controls for managing the cooking process.

[0067] It will readily be apparent that numerous modifications and alterations can be made to the processes described in the foregoing examples without departing from the principles underlying the invention, and all such modifications and alterations are intended to be embraced by this application.

Claims

1. CLAIMS:I / We Claim:

1. An automated spice dispensing system (100) for an automatic cooking device (101), comprising:a spice unit (104) having plurality of compartments (112) mounted on a base plate (102) through a rotatable shaft (116), wherein each of the plurality of compartments (112) is configured to store at least one spice of plurality of spices, wherein the base plate (102) having a feeding hole (110) and a base gear (102A);an alignment assembly (106) configured to rotate the spice unit (104) for aligning at least one compartment (112) with the feeding hole (110), thereby dispensing the at least one spice of the plurality of spices,wherein the alignment assembly (106) comprises:a first driving unit (114) having a first drive gear (114A) that is connected to the first driving unit (114) through a drive shaft, wherein the first drive gear (114A) is intermeshed with a support gear (116A) of the rotatable shaft (116) and the base gear (102A), and configured to rotate the rotatable shaft (116) upon activation of the first driving unit (114) to align the at least one compartment (112) with the feeding hole (110);at least one feed rod (118) rotatably disposed at a bottom portion of each of the plurality of compartments (112), wherein the at least one feed rod (118) is configured to rotate for dispensing the at least one spice of the plurality of spices from the at least one compartment (112) that is aligned with the feeding hole (110);a dispensing assembly (108) configured to rotate the at least one feed rod (118) to dispense the at least one spice of the plurality of spices through the feeding hole (110) when the at least one compartment (112) is aligned with the feeding hole (110), wherein the dispensing assembly (108) comprises:a second driving unit (120) connected to a second drive gear (120A);a first rack (122A) attached to one side of a casing (115) of the first driving unit (114);a second rack (122B) attached to opposite side of the casing (115) of the first driving unit (114); anda feed gear (124A) rotatably engaged with the second rack (122B) through an intermediate gear (124B),wherein the first rack (122A) and the second rack (122B) are configured to simultaneously move upon activation of the second driving unit (120), thereby engaging and rotating the intermediate gear (124B) by the second rack (122B),wherein the intermediate gear (124B) is configured for converting the linear motion of the second rack (122B) into a rotation motion for enabling the at least one feed rod (118) to rotate to dispense the at least one spice of the plurality of spices in controlled amounts, thereby enabling controlled dispensing of the at least one spice of the plurality of spices into a cooking vessel (10); anda control unit (126) configured to control an operation of the alignment assembly (106) and the dispensing assembly (108) by operating the first driving unit (114) and the second driving unit (120), respectively.

2. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as clamed in claim 1, wherein the feeding hole (110) is configured with an openable lid (110A), which is connected to the base gear (102A), wherein the openable lid (110A) is adapted to actuate when the first drive gear (114A) rotates the rotatable shaft (116) and the base gear (102A) simultaneously, upon activation of the first driving unit (114), thereby aligning the at least one compartment (112) and opening the feeding hole (110).

3. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the casing (115) is configured with a pair of slots (115A), wherein the first rack (122A) and the second rack (122B) are movably disposed in each of the slot (115A) of the casing (115).

4. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the feed gear (124A) is configured with a set of clampers (125) to securely and detachably hold the atleast one feed rod (118) of the at least one compartment (112) that is aligned with the feeding hole (110).

5. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second driving unit (120), the first rack (122A), and the second rack (122B) are configured to be operated in synchronization, thereby controlling the rotation of the at least one feed rod (118) to dispense a precise amount of spice when the at least one compartment (112) aligns with the feeding hole (110).

6. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the spice unit (104) comprises a protective lid (128), which is positioned over the plurality of compartments (112) as an enclosure to prevent contamination and preserve the freshness of the plurality of spices.

7. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one feed rod (118) comprises a portion cavity (118A) that aligns with a dispensing opening (112A) of each of the plurality of compartments (112) to provide precise control of dispensing of the plurality of spices.

8. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (126) is configured to transmit a first control signal to the first driving unit (114) to rotate the spice unit (104) and align the at least one compartment (112) with the feeding hole (110), and transmit a second control signal to the second driving unit (120) to actuate the at least one feed rod (118) of the at least one compartment (112), thereby releasing the at least one spice of the plurality of spices into the cooking vessel (10).

9. The automated spice dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (126) is configured to operate the first driving unit (114) and the second driving unit (120) sequentially, thereby rotating the spice unit (104) to align the at least one compartment (112) before actuating the at least one feed rod (118) to release the at least one spice from the plurality of spices.

10. A method for dispensing spices from an automated spice dispensing system (100), comprising:activating, by a control unit (126), a first driving unit (114) connected to a first drive gear (114A), which intermeshes with a support gear (116A) of a rotatable shaft (116) attached to a spice unit (104) and a base gear (102A) on a base plate (102);rotating, by the first driving unit (114), the spice unit (104) having a plurality of compartments (112) for aligning at least one compartment (112) containing at least one spice of plurality of spices with at least one feeding hole (110);activating, by the control unit (126), a second driving unit (120) for moving a first rack (122A) and a second rack (122B) of a dispensing assembly (108) simultaneously to engage and rotate an intermediate gear (124B) by the second rack (122B);enabling at least one feed rod (118) of the at least one compartment (112) to engage with a feed gear (124A) by converting the linear motion of the second rack (122B) into a rotational motion; androtating the at least one feed rod (118) of the at least one compartment (112) to dispense controlled amounts of the at least one spice of the plurality of spices through the feeding hole (110) into a cooking vessel (10).DATE AND SIGNATURE:Dated this 27thday of December, 2024Patent Agent Name: Hima Bindu Atti INPA-3925

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