Systems and methods for modifying blend sequences when preparing foodstuffs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Automated blending apparatuses often require manual adjustment of blend sequences for varying ingredient amounts, leading to suboptimal results when preparing foodstuffs, as standard sequences may not accommodate changes in ingredient quantities.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows users to record, modify, and playback blend sequences using a computing device and a blending apparatus, adjusting the duration and operating parameters of blend steps based on the measured amount of ingredients, enabling precise control for different serving sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If standard blend sequences are used in automated blending apparatuses, then the operation is simple and automated, but the blending results are suboptimal when ingredient amounts vary from the standard recipe
Solution Approach 1:
The blend sequence is made dynamic and adjustable based on the actual amount of ingredients being blended. The system allows modification of blend step durations and operating parameters to match the specific recipe variant being prepared, rather than using fixed standard sequences. This enables the automated apparatus to adapt to different ingredient quantities while maintaining optimal blending results.
Solution Approach 2:
The system modifies blending parameters (duration, power levels, speed) based on the measured amount of ingredients. By changing these parameters dynamically according to the actual ingredient quantities, the system maintains high blending quality whether preparing a full recipe or a scaled-down version.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a user wants to prepare a different amount of servings than the standard recipe, then the recipe flexibility increases, but the standard blend sequence becomes inadequate and requires manual adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically calculates and adjusts the blend sequence parameters based on the desired serving size. Instead of requiring manual adjustment, the system self-adapts by comparing the requested ingredient amounts with the stored recipe data and automatically modifying the blend steps accordingly. This maintains ease of operation while enabling recipe flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the measured ingredient amounts to automatically adjust the blend sequence. The measured quantities are fed back into the control system, which then modifies the blending parameters to match the actual preparation needs, eliminating the need for manual intervention.
3Manufacturing precision
If the blend sequence is customized for each recipe variant, then the blending quality is optimized, but the user burden increases with performing specific blend steps manually
Solution Approach 1:
The system stores pre-configured blend sequences for different recipe variants in its memory. When a recipe is selected, the appropriate pre-prepared blend sequence is automatically retrieved and executed, eliminating the need for the user to manually create or execute each blend step. This maintains optimized blending quality while saving user time.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical operation of adjusting and executing blend steps is replaced by an automated electronic control system. The computer-controlled apparatus automatically executes the customized blend sequences, substituting the user's manual actions with automated machinery that follows the stored program instructions.
Data Source
AI summary
The systems and methods described herein assist a user in executing a recipe by recording and associating a blend sequence of blend steps with the recipe upon a first execution of the recipe. The systems and methods described herein further assist the user in modifying and executing the recorded blend sequence upon a second and subsequent execution of the recipe.