Ingredient storage receptacle apparatus with adjustable measuring and dispensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring devices for ingredients are cumbersome, messy, and inefficient, often requiring multiple tools and leading to inaccurate measurements, which can affect the consistency and quality of recipes.
Innovation Solution
An ingredient storage receptacle apparatus with adjustable measuring and dispensing capabilities, featuring a housing with interchangeable sizes, a measurement member with troughs for precise ingredient deposition, and a computing system with sensors to automate ingredient ordering.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate measuring devices are used for different ingredients, then measurement capability is improved, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The storage receptacle is designed to perform multiple functions: storing ingredients, measuring ingredients, and dispensing ingredients. The measurement member can measure both dry and liquid ingredients, eliminating the need for separate measuring cups for different ingredient types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the storage receptacle, measurement member, and dispensing mechanism into a single integrated apparatus. The measurement member is positioned within the storage receptacle, and the dispensing opening is formed in the receptacle wall, merging multiple functions into one device.
2Ease of operation
If traditional measuring devices are used, then measurement function is provided, but mess and waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement member is designed to receive ingredients directly from the storage receptacle and deposit them through the dispensing opening. The ingredient flows from the storage area through the measurement member, allowing the system to serve itself without external intervention or cleanup.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement member acts as an intermediary between the storage receptacle and the dispensing opening. It receives ingredients from the storage area, measures the correct amount, and deposits it outside, preventing mess and waste by controlling the flow path.
3Measurement precision
If multiple measuring devices are kept for different measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but time to find and use correct device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement member is designed to measure multiple types of ingredients (dry and liquid) within a single device. The receptacle can store different ingredients, and the measurement member can measure each type appropriately, eliminating the need to search for different measuring devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the storage function and measurement function into a single integrated apparatus. The measurement member is positioned within the storage receptacle, allowing immediate access to measurement capability without needing to locate separate measuring devices.
4Quantity of substance
If separate storage and measuring devices are used, then storage capacity is improved, but space efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the storage receptacle and measurement member into a single integrated apparatus. The measurement member is positioned within the storage receptacle, eliminating the need for separate storage containers and measuring devices, thereby improving space efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement member is nested within the storage receptacle. The measurement member fits inside the receptacle space, allowing the measurement function to be incorporated without significantly increasing the external dimensions of the storage apparatus.
Data Source
AI summary
An ingredient storage receptacle apparatus includes a stand, a container, a housing, a roller positionable in the housing, a hopper, and a clip removably attachable to the hopper. The stand may be configured to receive the container, the housing, and the hopper. A user deposits ingredients into the hopper, where the ingredients proceed to troughs on the roller. The user may rotate the roller to deposit a predetermined, desired amount of ingredients into the container.