Auxiliary Button System for Wireless Recipe-Controlled Cooking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional cooking methods require manual intervention and estimation, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in cooking processes.
Innovation Solution
A wireless controlled cooking system comprising a computing device and a heat source system that communicate to adjust energy based on cooking instructions, allowing for automated temperature control and step progression in recipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual cooking methods are used with knobs and estimation, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and cooking consistency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control (knobs) with electronic/digital control systems. The cooking system uses processors, communication interfaces, and electronic displays to control heat sources, replacing the mechanical knob system with automated electronic temperature regulation that maintains precise cooking temperatures without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The cooking system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment of cooking parameters. The processor continuously monitors cooking progress and automatically adjusts heat source output to maintain precise temperatures, eliminating the need for manual estimation and adjustment by the user.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated temperature control is implemented, then manufacturing precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooking system uses a multi-functional communication architecture where a single communication interface and processor handle multiple tasks: displaying recipe steps, showing temperature readings, receiving user inputs, and controlling heat sources. This universal communication system reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate dedicated systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an auxiliary button system as an intermediary device that simplifies user interaction with the complex communication system. The auxiliary buttons serve as a simple interface layer between the user and the sophisticated processor-based control system, making the complex system easier to use without reducing its capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If user proximity to cooking device is reduced, then ease of operation improves for remote monitoring, but reliability of manual intervention decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cooking system implements continuous feedback loops where the processor monitors cooking progress, temperature readings, and recipe step completion in real-time. The system automatically adjusts cooking parameters based on this feedback and can alert users when intervention is needed, maintaining cooking reliability even when users are not continuously present at the cooking device.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows users to pre-configure cooking recipes and parameters before starting the cooking process. The processor then executes the pre-programmed cooking sequence automatically, performing preliminary actions and adjustments without requiring continuous user presence, while still maintaining reliability through automated monitoring and control.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one example, a system includes a computing device having a processor that is operable to display a first portion of a cooking recipe. The system further includes a heat source system having a heat source operable to provide an amount of energy to be used to cook a food item in accordance with the cooking recipe, and a processor operable to adjust the amount of energy provided by the heat source based on one or more communications with the computing device. The system further includes an auxiliary button system having an interface operable to receive an instruction to move from a first step of the cooking recipe to a second step, and a processor operable to transmit, via a second communication link with the computing device, an indication of the instruction.