Automatic dispensing system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current spice-dispensing systems are imprecise, time-consuming, and lack compatibility with the Internet of Things (IoT), leading to variations in flavor and potential contamination due to non-standardized spice sources and manual measurement methods.
Innovation Solution
A dispensing device with a capsule magazine and motor-driven mechanism that allows for precise dispensing of spices, seeds, and liquids, featuring a gear system for rotating capsules and a blocking mechanism to control material flow, along with connectivity to external devices for data collection and recipe management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement of spices is used, then users can control the dispensing process, but the measurement is imprecise and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement with an automated motor-driven capsule dispensing system. The motor rotates the capsule at controlled speeds, and the system automatically dispenses precise amounts of spice without manual intervention, eliminating both measurement imprecision and time consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from manual estimation to machine-controlled rotational speed and duration. By controlling the motor's rotation speed and the capsule's rotational position, the system achieves precise measurement of spice quantities automatically.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional spice-dispensing systems are used, then they are simple in structure, but they lack compatibility with IoT and cannot automatically measure or reorder spices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single device: the dispensing mechanism, IoT connectivity for data processing, automatic measurement capabilities, and reordering functionality. This multi-functional design enables IoT compatibility while managing complexity through integration rather than separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic measurement of spices and can automatically reorder supplies when needed, reducing the need for manual intervention. The IoT connectivity enables the system to self-monitor and self-replenish, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing operational complexity.
3Reliability
If non-standardized spice sources are used, then variety is available, but contamination and flavor variations occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spice supply into individual sealed capsules. Each capsule is a separate, sealed unit that prevents contamination during storage and transport. This segmentation maintains quality consistency while allowing variety through different capsule selections, as each capsule is independently sealed and protected.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses disposable sealed capsules for spice storage and dispensing. Each capsule is sealed to prevent contamination and is discarded after use, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination between different spices and ensuring consistent quality without requiring complex cleaning or sterilization processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise, efficient, and standardized spice dispensing while integrating with IoT for automatic measurement and reordering, reducing contamination risks and ensuring consistent flavors.
Implementation Method 1
a motor, operable to provide mechanical power for material dispensing operations
Implementation Method 2
a gear mechanically connected to the motor, wherein the gear is further disposed in connection with the at least one material capsule such that operation of the motor causes rotation of the gear and, in turn rotation of the at least one material capsule
Data Source
AI summary
A dispensing device for dispensing material. The dispensing device comprises a dispensing head; a capsule magazine including at least one void; at least one material capsule, wherein the at least one material capsule is disposed within the at least one void in the material capsule magazine; a motor, operable to provide mechanical power for material dispensing operations, wherein the motor is disposed within the dispensing head; and a gear mechanically connected to the motor, wherein the gear is further disposed in connection with the at least one material capsule, such that operation of the motor causes rotation of the gear and, in turn rotation of the at least one material capsule.