Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a perspective view of a cooking assistive device that is designed to enhance food preparation efficiency and safety by adapting to various cooking conditions, ensuring optimal performance and user convenience in outdoor or dynamic cooking environments.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Cooking has always involved a bit of a struggle with the tools we use. In the past, people relied on basic setups like stone tables, open fires, and simple tripods to hold pots and pans. Adjusting the height and position of these cooking vessels often required a lot of manual effort, making the process uncomfortable and tiring. Moreover, these setups weren't very stable, leading to spills or accidents that might cause burns. Controlling cooking temperatures was also tricky, which sometimes resulted in unevenly cooked food. These everyday challenges made it clear that there was a need for better, safer cooking aids. As cooking techniques evolved, so did the desire for tools that could make the experience easier and more enjoyable, helping us feel more confident in the kitchen.

[0003] Traditionally, cooking often involved simple supports made from materials like stones or wood. These may hold pots over an open flame or hot coals. However, these having limited height adjustment which makes quite difficult to control the cooking temperature effectively. So, people also use tripods for holding pots over fires. Grills made from iron or stone also emerged to provide a flat surface for cooking. But changing the height or angle of the pot was cumbersome.

[0004] US6868849B1 discloses about an invention that includes an apparatus for use in cooking over an open fire. Specifically, the invention discloses a tripod having a grill suspended therefrom. The tripod includes an elongate adjustment rod with a distantly situated handle. By attaching the suspension line, holding the grill to the handle, which is slidingly affixed to one leg of the tripod, the height of the grill over the fire can be changed. This arrangement allows the grill to be adjusted over the fire to accommodate the heat of the fire or to provide a preferred cooking temperature for the articles on the grill without adjusting the grill directly or having to touch the hot surfaces near the fire. Although US’849 relates to an apparatus for use in cooking over an open fire. But the cited invention are incapable of adjusting the height and position of cooking utensils based on real-time measurements.

[0005] US4024851A discloses about an invention that includes a tripod cooking device is of the pyramidal tripod type and contemplates utilization of a grill which hangs from the tripod apex and which is easily assembled and dis-assembled. One of the tripod legs is larger in diameter than the others and is adapted to storingly receive all of the other components of the device. In addition, the said larger leg is formed at one end to have multi-functions, i.e. it provides a guide for the grill hanging cable; it provides a stop for the other tripod legs when the unit is assembled; and it provides a stop to prevent fall-out of all the other components when they are stored therein. Furthermore, a wind guard is provided which selectively protects one lower side of the apparatus or alternately all three upper sides thereof. Though US’851 relates to a tripod cooking device. But the cited invention lack in preventing utensil tilting and protect against adverse weather conditions.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of aiding a user in cooking food items. However, these devices are incapable of adjusting the height and position of cooking utensils based on real-time measurements. Additionally, these existing devices also lack in preventing utensil tilting and protect against adverse weather conditions.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of automatically adjusting the height and position of cooking utensils based on real-time measurements, thereby improving accessibility and ease of use for the user. In addition, the developed device also enhance safety during cooking by incorporating a mean that prevent utensil tilting and protect against adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents or spills.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of automatically adjusting the height and position of cooking utensils based on real-time measurements, thereby improving accessibility and ease of use for the user.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is able to enhance safety during cooking by incorporating a mean that prevent utensil tilting and protect against adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents or spills.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is reliable in nature.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a perspective view of a cooking assistive device that is capable of facilitating automatic adjustments to the height and position of cooking utensils based on real-time measurements enhances accessibility and user convenience.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a perspective view of a cooking assistive device comprises of, a triangular shaped frame positioned over a ground surface by means pf plurality of telescopic legs to regulate height of the frame as per requirement, the frame is configured with plurality of extendable links that are accessed by a user to position a utensil over the frame in which a food item is to be cooked, an artificial intelligence based imaging unit installed over the frame to determine dimensions and height of the utensil, a motorized drawer arrangement integrated with each of the links to extend and retract in a manner to accommodate the utensil over the frame in an appropriate manner, a burner configured with one of the legs and connected with a chamber arranged with one of the leg and stored with fuel, a microphone is mapped over the frame to receive voice command of the user regarding cooking of the food item, an electronic valve integrated with the chamber to open and supply the fuel to the connected burner, an igniter configured with the frame via a robotic arm to ignite the fuel to produce heat for cooking the food item, and a temperature sensor is installed over the frame to monitor temperature of utensil.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of, an electromagnetic spring installed over each vertices of the frame to expand and position a triangular shaped member configured with the springs in proximity to neck portion of the utensil for griping the neck portion in a secured manner to prevent chances of tilting of the utensil, a laser sensor is installed over the frame to monitor presence and dimensions of wood/charcoal pile present over the surface for cooking the food, a sensing module is installed with the frame to monitor wind speed, rain, dust and snow in surroundings, a robotic link installed over the platform to position an extendable plate over mouth portion of the utensil to cover the mouth portion and a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a cooking assistive device

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a perspective view of a cooking assistive device is illustrated, respectively, comprising that is capable of facilitating automatic adjustments to the height and position of cooking utensils based on real-time measurements improves accessibility and user convenience. Additionally, the developed device enhances safety during cooking by incorporating mechanisms that prevent utensil tilting and protect against adverse weather conditions, thus reducing the risk of accidents or spills.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of a cooking assistive device is illustrated, respectively, comprising a triangular shaped frame 101 positioned over a ground surface by means pf plurality of telescopic legs 102, plurality of extendable links 103 that are accessed by a user to position a utensil over the frame 101 in which a food item is to be cooked, an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 104 installed over the frame 101, a burner 105 configured with one of the legs 102 and connected with a chamber 106 arranged with one of the legs 102, a microphone 107 is mapped over the frame 101, an electronic valve 108 integrated with the chamber 106, an igniter 109 configured with the frame 101 via a robotic arm 110, an electromagnetic spring 111 installed over each vertices of the frame 101 to expand and position a triangular shaped member 112 configured with the spring 111, a robotic link 113 installed over the platform, an extendable plate 114 installed at the end of the link 113.

[0023] The device disclosed herein features a triangular-shaped frame 101 supported by a plurality of telescopic legs 102 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers), designed to provide enhanced stability and adjustability for various applications. Constructed from robust materials, the frame 101 ensures structural integrity while its telescopic legs 102 allow for height adjustments, enabling the device to adapt to uneven surfaces. The triangular configuration inherently offers a stable base, minimizing the risk of tipping during operation.

[0024] The frame 101 is equipped with a plurality of extendable links 103 that can be easily accessed by the user to position a cooking utensil securely over the frame 101. These extendable links 103 allow for customizable height and positioning of the utensil, accommodating various sizes and types of cookware. This adjustable configuration ensures that the food item is optimally placed for cooking, promoting efficient heat distribution and enhancing the overall cooking process. The design prioritizes user convenience, allowing for quick adjustments to accommodate different cooking needs, thereby improving the culinary experience.

[0025] The links are pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the links comprises of a cylinder incorporated with an air piston and the air compressor, wherein the compressor controls discharging of compressed air into the cylinder via air valves which further leads to the extension/retraction of the piston. The piston is attached to the telescopic links, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the links. The actuated compressor allows extension of the links to position a utensil over the frame 101 in which a food item is to be cooked.

[0026] Synchronously, the microcontroller actuates an artificial intelligence based imaging unit 104 which is installed over the frame 101. The imaging unit 104 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the utensil and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 104 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 104 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images.

[0027] This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data which are processed by the microcontroller to determine dimensions and height of the utensil.

[0028] As the dimensions and height of the utensil is determined, the microcontroller actuates a motorized drawer arrangement integrated with each of the links. The drawer arrangement consists of multiple plates that are overlapped to each other with a sliding unit, wherein upon actuation of the drawer arrangement by the microcontroller, the motor in the sliding unit starts rotating a wheel coupled via a shaft in clockwise/anticlockwise direction providing a movement to the slider in the drawer arrangement to extend and retract in a manner to accommodate the utensil over the frame 101 in an appropriate manner.

[0029] At the same time, a laser sensor is mounted on the frame 101 and synchronized with the imaging unit 104 to monitor the presence and dimensions of a wood or charcoal pile positioned on the surface for cooking food. This advanced integration allows for precise measurement of the fuel source, enabling accurate assessments of its volume and distribution. By continuously gathering data, the laser sensor provides real-time feedback to optimize cooking conditions and enhance efficiency. This ensures that the cooking process can be adjusted based on the available fuel, contributing to better temperature control and cooking performance, ultimately leading to improved food preparation outcomes.

[0030] The laser sensor mentioned herein consists of an emitter, and a receiver. The sensor emits a light towards the surface of wood/charcoal pile and when the laser beam hits the surface of the wood/charcoal pile, the beam reflects back towards the receiver of the sensor. Upon detection of reflected beam by the sensor, the sensor precisely measures the time taken for the laser beam to travel to and back from the surface of the wood/charcoal pile. The sensor then calculates the presence and dimensions of the wood/charcoal pile present over the surface and the calculated data is then converted into electrical signal, in the form of current, and send to a microcontroller.

[0031] The microcontroller analyzes the data and monitor the presence and dimensions of the wood or charcoal pile situated on the surface for cooking, enabling the microcontroller to regulate the extension and retraction of the legs 102. This adjustment ensures that the cooking utensil is positioned at the appropriate height for optimal cooking of the food item.

[0032] A burner 105 integrated with one of the telescopic legs 102 of the frame 101, designed to serve as a stable and efficient heat source for cooking applications. This burner 105 is connected to a fuel chamber 106 securely arranged with the same legs 102, allowing for compact design and functionality. Constructed from heat-resistant materials, the burner 105 ensures safe and effective combustion, while the fuel chamber 106 is engineered to store the required fuel safely. This configuration allows for reliable heat generation, with efficient fuel delivery minimizing wastage. It is essential that both components comply with applicable safety regulations to prevent hazards such as leaks or fires, and clear documentation must be provided to mitigate liability risks associated with any potential malfunctions or accidents.

[0033] The user herein provides voice command via a microphone 107 is mapped over the frame 101, regarding cooking of the food item. The microphone 107 mentioned herein works as a transducer that converts sound waves into audio signal. The microphone 107 on receiving the input commands from the user converts the input signal into electrical signal and sends it to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received signals in order to analyze the voice inputs of the user and upon analyzing the voice commands the microcontroller actuates the device and accordingly commands the device to carry out cooking of the food item.

[0034] Synchronously, the microcontroller actuates an electronic valve 108 integrated with the chamber 106. The electronically controlled valve 108 is used to control fuel flow by varying the size of the flow passage as directed by a signal from a controller. This enables the direct control flow rate and fuel to the connected burner 105.

[0035] An igniter 109 is integrated with the frame 101 through a robotic arm 110, which is actuated by the microcontroller to ignite the fuel and produce heat for cooking the food item. This robotic arm 110 is designed to precisely position the igniter 109 in relation to the burner 105, ensuring efficient ignition and consistent heat generation. The microcontroller monitors the ignition process, controlling the timing and operation of the robotic arm 110 to enhance safety and effectiveness. This setup allows for automated ignition, minimizing the need for manual intervention while ensuring that the cooking process is initiated smoothly and reliably, thereby improving the overall efficiency and safety of food preparation.

[0036] The robotic arm 110 used herein mainly comprises of motor controllers, arm, end effector and sensors. The arm is the essential part of the robotic arm 110 and it comprises of three parts the shoulder, elbow and wrist. All these components are connected through joints, with the shoulder resting at the base of the arm, typically connected to the microcontroller. The elbow is in the middle and allows the upper section of the arm to move forward or backward independently of the lower section. Finally, the wrist is at the very end of the upper arm and attaches to the end effector. The end effector connected to the arm acts as a hand and acquire a grip of the igniter 109 for igniting the fuel to produce heat for cooking the food item.

[0037] The frame 101 is installed with a temperature sensor which monitor temperature of utensil. The temperature sensor disclosed herein is equipped with two electrodes utilized to detect the rise in voltage across the electrodes due to heating of the utensil. The detecting voltage is equivalent to the temperature that is sensed by the sensor. After then the sensor converts that detected temperature into electric signals and transmits that signal into the microcontroller. After that the microcontroller processes and analyze the signal to detect temperature of utensil.

[0038] If the monitored height of the utensil exceeds a predetermined threshold, the microcontroller activates electromagnetic spring 111 installed at each vertex of the frame 101. This action causes the spring 111 to expand, positioning a triangular-shaped member 112 near the neck portion of the utensil. This member 112 is designed to securely grip the neck of the utensil, effectively preventing any chances of tilting during the cooking process. By providing this additional support, the system enhances stability and safety, ensuring that the utensil remains securely in place even when subjected to heat and movement, thereby minimizing the risk of spills or accidents.

[0039] The electromagnetic spring 111 is a specialized type of spring 111 in which the magnetic field is produced by an electric current. When the current is passed through the spring 111, it creates a magnetic field around the spring 111 that energizes the spring 111 of opening and closing the closed structure thereby resulting in expanding and positioning of the triangular shaped member 112 configured with the spring 111 in proximity to neck portion of the utensil for griping the neck portion in a secured manner to prevent chances of tilting of the utensil.

[0040] A sensing module which includes an anemometer, rain sensor, dust senor and snow sensor is installed with the frame 101 to monitor wind speed, rain, dust and snow in surroundings. The anemometer measures wind speed and direction. It operates by detecting the movement of air, typically using rotating blades or cups that turn in response to wind flow. The data collected by the anemometer is crucial for assessing weather conditions that could affect cooking operations, such as outdoor stability or heat dispersion.

[0041] The rain sensor is designed to detect the presence of moisture in the environment. It typically uses a conductive or optical mechanism to sense rainfall. When moisture is detected, the sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller, which can then adjust operations accordingly, such as pausing cooking or protecting the setup from adverse weather conditions.

[0042] Synchronously, the dust sensor monitors the level of dust in the surroundings. It usually employs light-scattering techniques to detect particulate matter in the air. High levels of dust can trigger alerts, allowing the microcontroller to take precautionary measures, such as adjusting the cooking process or activating protective covers to ensure food safety.

[0043] The snow sensor detects snowfall and measures its accumulation. This device often uses temperature-sensitive elements or pressure sensors to identify the presence of snow. The information from the snow sensor can help the microcontroller determine whether to continue outdoor cooking or to initiate protective actions, ensuring safe and effective cooking conditions.

[0044] The plate 114 is directed by the microcontroller to extend in alignment with the dimensions of the mouth portion as detected by the imaging unit 104. This coordinated action ensures that the plate 114 adjusts precisely to the size and shape of the mouth portion, facilitating optimal fit and stability. By responding dynamically to the measurements provided by the imaging unit 104, the microcontroller enhances the effectiveness of the cooking setup, ensuring that the plate 114 remains securely positioned for efficient cooking and minimizing the risk of spills or accidents during the process.

[0045] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the device, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the device.

[0046] The present invention works in the best manner, where the triangular shaped frame 101 positioned over the ground surface by means pf plurality of telescopic legs 102. Then the laser sensor is installed over the frame 101 and synced with the imaging unit 104 to monitor presence and dimensions of wood/charcoal pile present over the surface for cooking the food based on which the microcontroller regulates extension and retraction of the legs 102 to position the utensil at appropriate height for appropriate cooking of the food item. Thereafter the frame 101 is configured with plurality of extendable links 103 that are accessed by the user to position the utensil over the frame 101 in which the food item is to be cooked. Then the artificial intelligence based imaging unit 104 installed over the frame 101 and integrated with the processor for capturing and processing images of the utensil, based on the detected images, the microcontroller linked with the imaging unit 104 determines dimensions and height of the utensil and accordingly actuates the motorized drawer arrangement integrated with each of the links to extend and retract in the manner to accommodate the utensil over the frame 101 in the appropriate manner. Afterwards the burner 105 configured with one of the legs 102 and connected with the chamber 106 arranged with one of the legs 102 and stored with fuel. Thereafter the microphone 107 is mapped over the frame 101 to receive voice command of the user regarding cooking of the food item based on which the microcontroller actuates the electronic valve 108 integrated with the chamber 106 to open and supply the fuel to the connected burner 105. Then the igniter 109 configured with the frame 101 via the robotic arm 110 that is actuated by the microcontroller to ignite the fuel to produce heat for cooking the food item. Afterwards the temperature sensor is installed over the frame 101 to monitor temperature of utensil based on which the microcontroller directs the vale to regulate the dispensed fuel to prevent burning of the food item. In case the monitored height of the utensil exceeds the threshold level, the microcontroller actuates the electromagnetic spring 111 installed over each vertex of the frame 101 to expand and position the triangular shaped member 112 configured with the spring 111 in proximity to neck portion of the utensil for griping the neck portion in the secured manner to prevent chances of tilting of the utensil. Then the sensing module which includes the anemometer, rain sensor, dust senor and snow sensor is installed with the frame 101 to monitor wind speed, rain, dust and snow in surroundings and in case of detection of high wind speed, rain, dust and snow in the surroundings, the microcontroller actuates the robotic link 113 installed over the platform to position the extendable plate 114 over mouth portion of the utensil to cover the mouth portion. Further the plate 114 is directed by the microcontroller to extend in accordance with the detected dimensions of the mouth portion as detected by the imaging unit 104

[0047] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A cooking assistive device, comprising:

i) a triangular shaped frame 101 positioned over a ground surface by means pf plurality of telescopic legs 102 that actuates to regulate height of said frame 101 as per requirement, wherein said frame 101 is configured with plurality of extendable links 103 that are accessed by a user to position a utensil over said frame 101 in which a food item is to be cooked;

ii) an artificial intelligence based imaging unit installed over said frame 101 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing images of said utensil, wherein based on said detected images, a microcontroller linked with said imaging unit 104 determines dimensions and height of said utensil and accordingly actuates a motorized drawer arrangement integrated with each of said links to extend and retract in a manner to accommodate said utensil over said frame 101 in an appropriate manner;

iii) a burner 105 configured with one of said legs 102 and connected with a chamber 106 arranged with one of said legs 102 and stored with fuel, wherein a microphone 107 is mapped over said frame 101 to receive voice command of said user regarding cooking of said food item based on which said microcontroller actuates an electronic valve 108 integrated with said chamber 106 to open and supply said fuel to said connected burner 105; and

iv) an igniter 109 configured with said frame 101 via a robotic arm 110 that is actuated by said microcontroller to ignite said fuel to produce heat for cooking said food item, wherein a temperature sensor is installed over said frame 101 to monitor temperature of utensil based on which said microcontroller directs said vale to regulate said dispensed fuel to prevent burning of said food item.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said monitored height of said utensil exceeds a threshold level, said microcontroller actuates an electromagnetic spring 111 installed over each vertices of said frame 101 to expand and position a triangular shaped member 112 configured with said spring 111 in proximity to neck portion of said utensil for griping said neck portion in a secured manner to prevent chances of tilting of said utensil.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a laser sensor is installed over said frame 101 and synced with said imaging unit 104 to monitor presence and dimensions of wood/charcoal pile present over said surface for cooking said food based on which said microcontroller regulate extension and retraction of said legs 102 to position said utensil at appropriate height for appropriate cooking of said food item.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a sensing module is installed with said frame 101 to monitor wind speed, rain, dust and snow in surroundings and in case of detection of high wind speed, rain, dust and snow in said surroundings, said microcontroller actuates a robotic link 113 installed over said platform to position an extendable plate 114 over mouth portion of said utensil to cover said mouth portion.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module includes an anemometer, rain sensor, dust senor and snow sensor.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said plate 114 is directed by said microcontroller to extend in accordance with said detected dimensions of said mouth portion as detected by said imaging unit 104.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.