Automated Spice Cartridge Dispenser for Precise Blend Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for dispensing spices, herbs, teas, and coffees lack automation, requiring manual measurement and selection, and do not allow for precise dispensing of variable quantities or mixtures from pre-filled cartridges.
Innovation Solution
An automated dispenser with a plurality of cartridges mounted on a carrier, featuring a dispensing means with relative movement and a look-up table for discrete dispensing programs, allowing alignment with specific cartridges to dispense precise quantities and mixtures, using a spindle or rotary arm to trigger calibrated dispensing by gravity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual measurement and selection methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and precision of dispensing are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the microprocessor automatically controls the rotary arm and dispensing mechanisms based on pre-programmed recipes, eliminating the need for manual measurement and selection while maintaining ease of use through simple user interface interactions
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations are replaced with an automated control system comprising a microprocessor, rotary arm mechanism, and calibrated dispensing components that automatically measure and dispense precise quantities of spices and ingredients according to stored recipes
2Measurement precision
If manual selection and measurement is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but measurement precision and dispensing accuracy are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Recipes and dispensing parameters are pre-programmed into the microprocessor memory, storing precise measurement instructions and sequences that are automatically executed, eliminating the need for users to manually measure while ensuring consistent accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms through calibrated sensors and measurement devices that monitor dispensing quantities and provide data to the microprocessor, ensuring precise control and accuracy in measuring spices and ingredients
3Adaptability or versatility
If pre-filled cartridges are used, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability for custom mixtures is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system is designed with multi-functionality to handle both pre-filled cartridges and bulk storage containers, allowing the same apparatus to operate with different cartridge configurations or open containers, providing versatility for various spice and ingredient types while maintaining automated dispensing capabilities
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 convenient and precise automatic dispensing of desired quantities and mixtures of spices, herbs, teas, and coffees, eliminating the need for manual measurement and allowing rapid selection of pre-programmed blends without manual labor.
Implementation Method 1
trigger calibrated dispensing by gravity
Data Source
AI summary
An automated dispenser for dispensing spices, condiments, herbs, teas, ground coffees, or powdered beverages, comprising a plurality of cartridges mounted on a carrier respectively containing said items, having a dispensing means with relative movement capable between said dispensing means and said cartridges. A look-up table, containing a plurality of separate, discrete dispensing programs is provided for operation of the dispensing means to dispense a particular variety of mixtures and quantities from said cartridges. When a spice blend and associated dispensing program is selected by a user, the dispensing program aligns the dispensing means relative to the cartridge carrier and cartridge, to dispense a particular quantity and, in the case of a mix, to subsequently align with other selected cartridges to provide, from said cartridges, the mix of spices, herbs, condiments, powdered beverages or ground coffees. A specialized cartridge adapted for use in said automated dispenser is also disclosed.