Device and method for the automated preparation of foods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing food preparation systems lack the capability for automated, efficient, and flexible preparation of food, especially in a compact and mobile format that can operate independently with minimal environmental intervention.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a storage container, donor device, preparation vessel, mixing device, heating device, manipulator, transfer station, and hygiene device, all connected via a processor-controlled system, allowing for automated food preparation, handling, and cleaning within a compact, mobile enclosure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a food preparation system is designed to be compact and mobile, then it can be easily moved and installed without environmental intervention, but it becomes more difficult to integrate multiple preparation functions and maintain adequate working space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the mixing device inside the preparation vessel, and the heating device inside the mixing device. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional components to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, maximizing the utilization of limited internal space within the compact enclosure while maintaining all necessary preparation functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes vertical stacking and multi-level arrangement of components within the enclosure, transitioning from horizontal spatial distribution to vertical three-dimensional organization. This allows multiple devices to be arranged at different heights and levels, effectively using the vertical dimension to accommodate complex functionality within a compact footprint.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device is designed to be self-sufficient with integrated storage and preparation, then it can operate independently, but it increases the internal space requirements and device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The preparation vessel serves multiple functions: it acts as a storage container for ingredients, a mixing bowl for preparation, and a heating chamber for cooking. The heating device similarly provides both heating and sterilization functions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby minimizing internal space requirements while maintaining self-sufficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The device includes pre-stored ingredients in the storage container and pre-configured recipe data in the control device, allowing the system to operate independently without requiring external intervention during the preparation process. The manipulator is pre-programmed with movement sequences to automatically execute preparation tasks.
3Productivity
If automated manipulators are used for food handling, then preparation efficiency increases, but the device complexity and difficulty of cleaning and maintenance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The manipulator is designed with a detachable end effector that can be easily removed from the manipulator body. This extraction capability allows the end effector to be separated for independent cleaning and maintenance, reducing the complexity of servicing the integrated system while maintaining automated handling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hygiene device is equipped with automated cleaning capabilities that can clean the interior surfaces of the preparation vessel and other components without manual intervention. The control device coordinates the cleaning process automatically, reducing the maintenance burden despite the presence of complex automated components.
4Volume of stationary object
If multiple devices are integrated in close proximity, then space utilization improves, but heat management and temperature control become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The heating device is segmented into multiple heating zones or elements that can be independently controlled. The control device can activate specific heating zones based on the required temperature and cooking stage, allowing precise temperature management despite the close proximity of multiple devices and minimizing thermal interference.
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 fast, flexible, and efficient preparation of food on demand, maintaining food safety and hygiene while being compact and self-sufficient, allowing for easy setup and operation without significant environmental modifications.
Implementation Method 1
at least one heating device (18) designed to heat the contents of the preparation vessel (14)
Implementation Method 2
at least one mixing device (16) designed to mix the contents of the preparation vessel (14)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for the automated preparation of foods, comprising: - at least one preparation vessel, which is substantially rotationally symmetrical about an axis of rotation and is designed to receive at least one food; and - at least one mixing apparatus, which is designed to thoroughly mix the contexts of the preparation vessel; wherein the preparation vessel has a coupling element, which extends substantially along the axis of rotation, and wherein the coupling element is designed to cooperate with a complementary coupling element of the mixing apparatus, so that the preparation vessel is accommodated in the mixing apparatus and can be set in rotation about the axis of rotation of the preparation vessel. The invention also relates to an associated method.