Multi-Ingredient Dispenser for Automated Multi-Stage Cooking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cooking devices lack a simple solution for using fresh ingredients to make complex multi-step recipes, limiting the variety and number of dishes that can be prepared, and meal delivery options are often expensive and restrictive.
Innovation Solution
An automatic cooking device system with a multi-ingredient dispenser that delivers ingredients in multiple stages, compatible with traditional cooking vessels and smart stoves, allowing for customizable recipes and easy integration with various cooking methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a slow cooker is used to simplify meal preparation, then the cooking process is simplified, but the number and variety of dishes is limited because it can only cook one group of ingredients over a long duration
Solution Approach 1:
The cooking device is divided into multiple independently controllable heating zones, each capable of operating at different temperatures and durations. This segmentation allows simultaneous preparation of multiple dishes with different cooking requirements, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and culinary versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device integrates multiple cooking functions (boiling, steaming, frying, slow cooking) into a single appliance with programmable controls. Each heating zone can be configured for different cooking methods and recipes, providing universal functionality that maintains ease of operation while expanding dish variety.
2Loss of time
If meal delivery services are used to address lack of time, then the shopping process is simplified, but the options are limited and costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The device allows pre-programming of cooking cycles and automatic ingredient dispensing, so that meal preparation can be initiated in advance without requiring continuous attention. Multiple dishes can be set up simultaneously and cooked automatically, reducing time investment while maintaining culinary flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic controls that monitor cooking progress, adjust temperatures, and manage multiple dishes independently. This self-service capability allows the device to handle complex multi-step recipes automatically, freeing users from time constraints while preserving full menu options.
3Adaptability or versatility
If current cooking tools are used to prepare complex multi-step recipes, then fresh ingredients can be used, but the process lacks a simple solution
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple cooking functions, temperature controls, and timing mechanisms are merged into a single programmable system. The device combines several traditional cooking tools into one unified appliance that can handle complex multi-step recipes through automated sequence control, maintaining ingredient flexibility while simplifying the cooking process.
Solution Approach 2:
The system features dynamically adjustable parameters including variable temperature zones, programmable timing sequences, and adaptive cooking modes. This dynamic control allows the device to automatically manage complex recipe steps while maintaining the ability to accommodate fresh ingredients and diverse cooking techniques.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for an automated cooking device that includes a multi-ingredient dispenser with a base, liquid dispenser and a dispensing selector, wherein the base comprises a set of base receptacles; a set of ingredient dispenser units that removably couple with the base receptacles and controllably open when in an engaged mode with the dispensing selector of the multi-ingredient dispenser; a cooking apparatus with a heating unit and mixing unit; and a control unit that is configured to process a multi-stage cooking process and that at least partially controls the dispensing selector, heating unit, mixing unit, and liquid dispenser.