Abstract: A multi-modal cheese serving device, comprising a cuboidal body 101 embodied with a compartment 102 for category wise segregated storage of cheese, a touch interactive display panel 103 provides an option of selecting one of the category and amount of cheese along with a preferred serving mode, a mechanical link 104 having an end portion fabricated with a motorized plate 105 that comprising a first tool constructed with an arrangement of a grater 106 and a pusher 107, a linear actuator 108 attached with pusher 107 to grate the cheese sandwiched between grater 106 and pusher 107, a second tool constructed an arrangement of a motorized blade 109 and a blower 110, to obtain a smoky cheese, a robotic arm 112 fabricated with a gripper 113 as an end effector, to pick the selected category of cheese and place cheese in first tool, second tool or heating chamber 111.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-modal cheese serving device that is developed to automate and optimize preparation of various cheese textures and serving modes, in view of ensuring a more efficient, user-friendly, and customizable experience for both home and commercial use, thus perform operation within minimal manual efforts and errors.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Handling cheese for different dishes is a tedious task. People often have to manually grate, slice, or melt cheese using basic kitchen tools like knives, graters, or blenders. However, these methods are time-consuming and messy, especially when you need the cheese to be in specific forms—grated, melted, or sliced. For instance, grating cheese by hand take a while and may not produce consistent results, while melting cheese on the stove lead to uneven temperatures. Additionally, storing different types of cheese, keeping track of quantities, and ensuring the right portion sizes for specific dishes can be inconvenient. Achieving different textures like smoky cheese or liquid cheese also requires a lot of attention to temperature control, which is tricky. These challenges make the process more complicated than necessary, showing the need for a more efficient and user-friendly way to handle, prepare, and serve cheese in different forms and textures.
[0003] Traditional methods for grating, slicing, and preparing cheese involved manual graters and knives. These tools were simple and effective for small batches but required significant physical effort. Cheese often be sliced or grated by hand, and the texture was inconsistent. While widely available, they lacked the precision needed for large-scale operations or specific cheese types. So, people also use mechanical cheese slices and graters. These machines handle larger quantities of cheese and offered more uniform results. These are designed for both commercial and home use, making cheese preparation more efficient. But these have limited ability to handle different textures (such as melting cheese or creating smoky flavours).
[0004] US3642045A discloses a device for grating cheese and the like is described. The device consists of a cylindrical housing containing a grating plate. Inserted into the housing above the grating plate is a rotatable cylindrical body divided by a vertical partition which serves to turn the substance to be grated in contact with the plate. A pusher element inserted in the cylindrical body drives the partition by means of slots into which the partition is engaged.
[0005] CN210616606U discloses a cheese cutting equipment, which comprises a frame, wherein the top of the frame is connected with an operation table, two sides of the top of the operation table are connected with guide rails, supporting slide rails are evenly arranged between the guide rails, the guide rails and the supporting slide rails are arranged in parallel, the top of the guide rails is connected with a push plate in a sliding way, the push plate is vertically arranged above the operation table, the center of the right side of the push plate is vertically connected with a sleeve, the right side of the top of the operation table is connected with a cylinder through a bracket, the end part of a piston rod of the cylinder is sleeved on the inner side of the sleeve, the right end of the top of a cylinder barrel of the cylinder is connected with a gas pipe regulating valve, the top of the gas pipe regulating valve is communicated with a gas pipe connector, the cheese cutting equipment has simple structure, convenient movement and convenient disassembly, the cutting specification is standard, the operation is safe and easy, and the method has wide application prospect.
[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of serving cheese. However, these existing devices fail to accommodate different preparation methods for cheese, preventing users from easily switching between varying textures, such as grated, smoked, or melted, to suit a wide range of culinary applications. Additionally, these existing devices also lack in reducing the potential for contamination that makes the process unhygienic for the user.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to accommodate different preparation means for cheese, in view of allowing users to easily switch between varying textures, such as grated, smoked, or melted, to suit a wide range of culinary applications, thereby enhancing the overall user experience. Additionally, the developed device also needs to minimize direct handling of cheese, thereby reducing the potential for contamination and ensuring that the process remains hygienic and safe for the user.
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 automates the selection, processing, and serving of cheese, in view of reducing the need for manual intervention and ensuring consistency in texture and quality.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that offers the user the ability to select different textures, quantities, and cheese types, thereby providing a customized experience based on individual preferences and culinary needs.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that adjusts the preparation process according to the specific needs of various cheese types, thereby ensuring proper handling and achieving optimal results for each variety.
[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that ensure efficient and precise handling of cheese in order to reduce errors and wastage.
[0013] 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
[0014] The present invention relates to a multi-modal cheese serving device that facilitates the automatic choice, preparation, and presentation of cheese, thereby aiming to minimize human involvement while maintaining uniformity in texture and standardizing the quality.
[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a multi-modal cheese serving device, comprises of a cuboidal body embodied with a compartment for category wise segregated storage of cheese, a set of motorized wheels are installed at a bottom portion of the body, the wheels being controlled through an interlinking of the microcontroller and a user interface, a dual axis lead screw arrangement is installed within the compartment, the arrangement coupled with a trimming knife via an extendable rod to cut the cheese into one or more blocks, an AI (artificial intelligence) based imaging unit coupled with the microcontroller to capture and process surrounding images, for locating and categorizing between nearby objects and humans, a touch interactive display panel installed over the body and operatively coupled with a microcontroller, that provides an option of selecting one of the category and amount of cheese along with a preferred serving mode, the modes include a first, second and third mode, a mechanical link attached with the body via a motorized ball and socket joint, the link having an end portion fabricated with a motorized plate.
[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of plate that consists of a first tool constructed with an arrangement of a grater and a pusher, on selection of a first mode, a linear actuator attached with the pusher to grate the selected category of cheese sandwiched between the grater and pusher, a second tool constructed an arrangement of a motorized blade and a blower, on selection of the second mode the blower and blade obtain a smoky cheese, the blower is installed over a slider that translates the blower linearly to blow hot air throughout the surface of the cheese, a conduit assembled over the body and connected with a heating chamber, on selection of the third mode a heating element disposed within the chamber to obtain liquid cheese, an electronic nozzle is fabricated at an end portion of the conduit to regulate dispensing of the liquid cheese, a robotic arm fabricated with a gripper as an end effector, operatively coupled with the microcontroller to pick the selected category of cheese and place the cheese in the first tool, second tool or heating chamber depending on the mode selected by a user, an integrated assembly of microphone and speaker is linked with the microcontroller to communicate with the user, the microcontroller configured with a machine learning protocol that interfaces with a cloud database to provide responses to the queries of the user.
[0017] 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
[0018] 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 multi-modal cheese serving device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] 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.
[0020] 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.
[0021] 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.
[0022] The present invention relates to a multi-modal cheese serving device that that offers the user with the ability to select different textures, quantities, and cheese types, thereby providing a customized experience based on individual preferences and culinary needs.
[0023] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of a multi-modal cheese serving device is illustrated, comprising a cuboidal body 101 embodied with a compartment 102, a touch interactive display panel 103 installed over the body 101, a mechanical link 104 attached with the body 101 having an end portion fabricated with a motorized plate 105, the plate 105 comprising a first tool constructed with an arrangement of a grater 106 and a pusher 107, a linear actuator 108 attached with the pusher 107, a second tool constructed an arrangement of a motorized blade 109 and a blower 110, a heating chamber 111 installed over the body 101, a robotic arm 112 fabricated with a gripper 113 as an end effector installed over the body 101, the blower 110 is installed over a slider 114.
[0024] Figure 1 further illustrates an electronic nozzle 115 is fabricated at an end portion of the conduit, a set of motorized wheels 116 are installed at a bottom portion of the body 101, an integrated assembly of microphone 117 and speaker 118 installed over the body 101, a dual axis lead screw arrangement 119 is installed within the compartment 102, the arrangement 119 coupled with a trimming knife 120 via an extendable rod 121, an AI (artificial intelligence) based imaging unit 122 installed over the body 101.
[0025] The device disclosed herein comprising a cuboidal body 101 that is developed with a compartmentalized structure for the category-wise storage of different types of cheese, such as soft cheese, semi-soft cheese, semi-hard cheese, and hard cheese. Additionally, the compartment 102 are customized to store dairy cheeses based on their origin, including cow milk, goat milk, buffalo milk, and sheep milk. This organization ensures that each type of cheese is stored separately, preserving its distinct texture, flavour, and quality. The body 101 offers an efficient storage solution that accommodates various cheese categories while maintaining proper conditions for each.
[0026] A set of motorized wheels 116 is installed at the bottom portion of the body 101, enabling mobility for the entire unit. These wheels 116 are controlled through a microcontroller that is interlinked with a user interface, allowing users to operate and maneuver the unit with ease. The motorized wheels 116 are directed to move the body 101 as per user inputs, providing flexibility in handling and positioning.
[0027] The motorized wheels 116 are a circular object that revolves on an axle to enable the body 101 to move easily over the ground surface. For maneuvering the body 101 each of the wheels 116 need to rotate and which is governed by a hub motor fit in the hub of each of the wheels 116 that provides the rotation motion to the wheels 116 for maneuvering the body 101 on the ground surface.
[0028] A dual-axis lead screw arrangement 119 is installed within the compartment 102 to facilitate the precise cutting of cheese. The arrangement 119 is coupled with a trimming knife 120 via an extendable rod 121, allowing the knife 120 to move along multiple axes for accurate cheese block cutting. The dual-axis lead screw arrangement 119 is actuated by the microcontroller, enabling controlled movement of the knife 120 to slice the cheese into one or more blocks based on user inputs. The arrangement 119 ensures that the cheese is cut evenly and efficiently, with the ability to adjust the cutting position as necessary to suit different cheese types and sizes.
[0029] The dual-axis lead screw arrangement 119 operates by converting rotational motion into linear motion along two perpendicular axes. The lead screws are mounted on both axes, allowing for precise control of the knife 120 movement in multiple directions. When the motor drives the lead screws, they rotate, causing the connected nut and rod 121 to move, which in turn adjusts the position of the trimming knife 120. This arrangement 119 ensures smooth, controlled movement for accurate cutting.
[0030] The rod 121 is pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the rod 121 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 rod 121, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the rod 121. The actuated compressor allows extension of the rod 121 to position the trimming knife 120 n ana appropriate position in order to cut the cheese into one or more blocks.
[0031] The body 101 is installed with an AI (artificial intelligence) based imaging unit 122 that locates and categorizes between nearby objects and humans. The imaging unit 122 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 122 in form of an optical data.
[0032] The imaging unit 122 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images. 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 locate and categorize between nearby objects and humans.
[0033] In an embodiment of the present invention the AI-enabled imaging unit 122 is designed to identify the type of dish present on the customer's table. Upon recognition, the microcontroller automatically adjusts the serving based on the identified dish. For example, classic toppings are added to pizzas, extra cheese layers are incorporated into burgers, and additional cheese is provided for tacos and burritos. This intelligent feature enhances the flavour of the dish by ensuring the appropriate cheese toppings are applied according to the specific food type, improving the overall dining experience for the customer.
[0034] The body 101 is installed with a touch interactive display panel 103 that provides an option of selecting one of the category and amount of cheese along with a preferred serving mode. The touch interactive display panel 103 as mentioned herein is typically an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs details regarding category and amount of cheese along with a preferred serving mode. A touch controller is typically connected to the microcontroller through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit).
[0035] The device includes multiple modes such as a first, second, and third mode, offering various textures and states for the cheese. These modes include, but are not limited to, melted, grilled, fondue, crumbled, grated, and burnt. Each mode is designed to adjust the preparation of the cheese to achieve the desired texture or state, catering to a variety of culinary needs. The modes are controlled through the display panel 103, allowing the user to select their preferred mode.
[0036] A mechanical link 104 is attached to the body 101 through a motorized ball and socket joint. This link 104 includes an end portion fabricated with a motorized plate 105, designed to perform specific tasks. The motorized ball and socket joint mentioned here consists of a ball-shaped element that fits into a socket, which provides rotational freedom in various directions. The ball is connected to a motor, typically a servo motor which provides the controlled movement.
[0037] The link 104 is attached to the socket of the motorized ball and socket joint, the microcontroller sends precise instructions to the motor of the motorized ball and socket joint. The motor responds by adjusting the ball and socket joint and rotates the ball in the desired direction, and this motion is transferred to the socket that holds the link 104. As the ball and socket joint move, it provides the necessary movement to the link 104.
[0038] The plate 105 is coupled with a DC motor, wherein the DC motor works on the principle of electromagnetic induction: the stator and the rotor. The stator generates a magnetic field which usually consists of a permanent magnet or as set of coils through which direct current flows. The rotor is the moving part of the motor. The armature is connected to a commutator which is a rotary switch that reverses the direction of the current in the coil every half-turn. As the armature rotates, the brushes ensure a continuous flow of current by reversing its direction at the right moments. When the DC is applied to the armature, a magnetic field is created around the coil due to the current flowing through the coil. As the DC electric motor rotates, the rotational force rotates the plate 105 for further operation.
[0039] The plate 105 is designed with a first tool comprising a grater 106 and a pusher 107 arrangement. Upon selection of the first mode, the microcontroller activates a linear actuator 108 attached to the pusher 107. This actuator 108 functions to grate the selected category of cheese placed between the grater 106 and the pusher 107. The linear actuator 108 consists of a motor connected to a quick return mechanism, which enhances the efficiency of the grating process. The quick return mechanism further includes a crank, which is fixed with a set of mechanical links 104 to facilitate the back-and-forth motion needed for the grating action.
[0040] The linear actuator 108 operates by converting rotational motion into linear motion. The motor attached to the actuator 108 generates rotational force, which is transmitted through a gear arrangement. This rotational motion drives a screw mechanism, typically a lead screw or ball screw. As the screw rotates, it moves a nut along its length in a linear direction. Here, when the microcontroller activates the linear actuator 108, the motor starts rotating, which in turn rotates the lead screw. The lead screw's rotational movement is then transferred to a nut, which moves along the screw. The nut is connected to the pusher 107, and as it moves linearly, it pushes the cheese against the grater 106.
[0041] The linear actuator 108 quick return mechanism ensures that the pusher 107 returns to its starting position efficiently after each stroke. This is accomplished by using a crank mechanism connected to the actuator 108 moving parts. As the pusher 107 moves forward to grate the cheese, the quick return mechanism facilitates rapid retraction, ensuring a continuous and efficient grating process. The back-and-forth motion of the pusher 107 is synchronized with the cheese’s position to ensure that the grating is done in a controlled, precise manner, facilitating consistent texture and size.
[0042] A second tool is constructed with a motorized blade 109 and a blower 110, configured to operate in synchrony when the second mode is selected. The microcontroller activates both the blade 109 and blower 110 to perform a smoking process on the cheese, wherein the motorized blade 109 assists in cutting or scoring the cheese's surface while the blower 110, mounted on a slider 114, translates linearly across the cheese, blowing hot air over its surface. This combined action creates a smoky effect, adding flavour to the cheese.
[0043] The motorized blade 109 is powered by a motor connected to the microcontroller. Upon activation, the motor drives the blade 109 to rotate, cutting or scoring the cheese as per the desired thickness and texture. The blade 109 movement is synchronized with the mode selection, allowing for precise control of the cutting process. The motor ensures consistent speed and force, enabling the blade 109 to cut through the cheese smoothly.
[0044] The blower 110 when activated by the microcontroller emit hot air, which is directed toward the cheese's surface. The blower 110 linear movement, facilitated by the slider 114, ensures that hot air is distributed evenly across the cheese. The blower 110 operates to enhance the smoking process by providing consistent heat, which interacts with the cheese’s surface, imparting a smoky flavour.
[0045] The slider 114 consists of a pair of sliding rail fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of a sliding unit is positioned that is further connected with a bi-directional motor via a shaft. The microcontroller actuates the bi-directional motor to rotate in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction that aids in rotation of shaft, wherein the shaft converts the electrical energy into rotational energy for allowing movement of the wheel to translate over the sliding rail by a firm grip on the grooves. The movement of the slider 114 results in translation of the blower 110 linearly to aid the blower 110 to blow hot air throughout the surface of the cheese.
[0046] A conduit is assembled over the body 101 and is connected to a heating chamber 111. Upon selection of the third mode, the microcontroller activates a heating element positioned within the chamber 111, thereby heating the contents to achieve a liquid cheese state. This arrangement is designed to heat the cheese uniformly and maintain the required temperature for liquid consistency, allowing the cheese to be dispensed in a liquid form. The heating process is controlled precisely by the microcontroller to ensure optimal results, providing the user with a desired liquid cheese product.
[0047] The heating element, typically composed of a resistive wire or coil, operates based on Joule’s law, where electrical energy is converted into heat. When the third mode is selected, the microcontroller sends an electrical signal to the heating element, activating it. As current flows through the resistive wire, electrical energy is dissipated as heat.
[0048] This heat is transferred to the contents inside the heating chamber 111, specifically to the cheese. The heating element’s surface temperature rises, gradually increasing the temperature of the cheese. The microcontroller continuously monitors the temperature to ensure that the cheese reaches the desired liquid state without overheating, maintaining optimal consistency for dispensing.
[0049] The heating chamber 111 is equipped with a pump designed to channel the liquid cheese through the conduit. The pump, upon activation, generates the necessary pressure to propel the liquid cheese from the heating chamber 111 through the conduit. An electronic nozzle 115 is installed at the end portion of the conduit, serving to regulate the dispensing of the liquid cheese. The nozzle 115 operation is controlled by the microcontroller, which adjusts the opening size of the nozzle 115 to ensure a precise and controlled flow of the liquid cheese. This setup enables accurate portion control and consistent delivery of liquid cheese from the conduit.
[0050] The pump upon activation, creates a suction effect, pulling the liquid cheese from the chamber 111. This suction is then converted into pressure, which pushes the liquid through the conduit. The pump ensures that the flow rate remains consistent, enabling smooth movement of the liquid cheese and preventing any interruptions or inconsistencies in its transfer.
[0051] The electronic nozzle 115 is positioned at the end of the conduit to control the dispensing of the liquid cheese. The electronic nozzle 115 functions through an electronically controlled valve that adjusts the size of the nozzle 115 opening based on the required amount of cheese. When the nozzle 115 is activated, the valve opens and closes at specific intervals to regulate the flow of liquid cheese. The precise control of the nozzle 115 ensures that the cheese is dispensed in a controlled manner, facilitating uniform application or portioning as required.
[0052] The heating chamber 111 is equipped with a thermal sensor that is operatively connected to the microcontroller. The sensor monitors the temperature within the chamber 111, sending real-time data to the microcontroller. Based on the received data, the microcontroller adjusts the heating element's activity to maintain the temperature at the desired level. This ensures that the temperature is continuously regulated, preventing overheating or underheating, and allowing for precise control over the heating process, optimizing the quality and consistency of the liquid cheese produced within the chamber 111.
[0053] The thermal sensor continuously monitors the temperature within the heating chamber 111 by detecting the heat emitted by the air or liquid inside. It converts the thermal energy into an electrical signal. This signal is sent to the microcontroller, which processes the data to determine whether the temperature is within the desired range. If the temperature is too high or too low, the microcontroller adjusts the heating element accordingly, either increasing or decreasing its power output, to maintain the optimal temperature for cheese processing.
[0054] A robotic arm 112, equipped with a gripper 113 at its end effector, is operatively connected to the microcontroller. The robotic arm 112 selects and pick the designated category of cheese based on the user's selection. Upon receiving the input from the microcontroller, the robotic arm 112 positions the selected cheese into the appropriate tool, such as the first tool, second tool, or heating chamber 111, in accordance with the mode chosen by the user. The movement and operations of the robotic arm 112 are controlled by the microcontroller to ensure precise and accurate placement of the cheese in the corresponding processing area.
[0055] The robotic arm 112 used herein mainly comprises of motor controllers, arm 112, end effector and sensors. The arm 112 is the essential part of the robotic arm 112 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 112, typically connected to the microcontroller. The elbow is in the middle and allows the upper section of the arm 112 to move forward or backward independently of the lower section. Finally, the wrist is at the very end of the upper arm 112 and attaches to the end effector. The end effector robotic gripper 113 connected to the arm 112 acts as a hand and acquire a grip of the cheese and place the cheese in the first tool, second tool or heating chamber 111 depending on the mode selected by a user.
[0056] The robotic gripper 113 includes a link 104 connected with multiple motorized ball and socket joints and a gripper 113 for smooth and precise gripping of cheese. The motorized ball and socket joint includes a motor powered by the microcontroller generating electrical current, a ball shaped element and a socket. The ball move freely within the socket. The motor rotates the ball in various directions that is controlled by the microcontroller that further commands the motor to position the ball precisely. The microcontroller further actuates the motor to generate electrical current to rotate in the joint for providing movement to the gripper 113 for gripping cheese and placing the cheese in the first tool, second tool or heating chamber 111 depending on the mode selected by a user.
[0057] In an embodiment of the present invention after each serving, multiple water nozzle 115 integrated within the melting module will automatically activate to clean the surrounding area. This ensures that no modifications or disruptions occur during the service, maintaining the integrity of the presentation and ensuring cleanliness. The use of water nozzle 115 aids in upholding the highest hygiene standards, preventing any residue or debris from remaining on the serving area. This automated cleaning process promotes a sterile environment, essential for maintaining the quality of service and ensuring that each customer receives food in a pristine and hygienic setting.
[0058] An integrated assembly of a microphone 117 and speaker 118 is operably connected to the microcontroller, facilitating communication with the user. The microcontroller is programmed with a machine learning protocol, which interfaces with a cloud database to process user queries and provide responses. This configuration allows for seamless interaction with the microcontroller, enhancing user experience through efficient and responsive communication.
[0059] The microphone 117 captures sound waves in the form of acoustic signals. These sound waves are converted into electrical signals, which are then sent to the microcontroller for processing. The microcontroller interprets these signals, transcribes the audio into text or commands, and sends them to the machine learning protocol for response generation or action initiation.
[0060] The speaker 118 receives electrical signals corresponding to audio responses. The electrical signals drive a diaphragm within the speaker 118, causing it to vibrate. These vibrations produce sound waves, which are emitted as audible sound. The speaker 118 operation relies on the movement of the diaphragm through the conversion of electrical signals into mechanical vibrations.
[0061] In an embodiment of the present invention, an intuitive interface allows customers to easily create personalized profiles, saving their cheese preferences for future visits. This functionality ensures a tailored experience for each user, enhancing convenience and satisfaction. Customers access various payment options securely, browse through an extensive menu that includes cheese-based dishes, and explore other offerings. Furthermore, the application provides an estimated service time, enabling customers to plan their visit accordingly. This time estimation feature helps customers manage their expectations and makes the entire process more efficient and user-friendly.
[0062] In another embodiment of the present invention a Peltier unit is incorporated within the compartment 102 to regulate the temperature based on the specific type of cheese being stored. The cheese is initially analyzed through a machine learning protocol, which determines the cheese's characteristics and requirements. Infrared thermal sensors are utilized to record the current temperature of the cheese, allowing precise monitoring. Subsequently, the Peltier unit adjusts the temperature to maintain the optimal serving conditions for the cheese. This combination of machine learning, thermal sensors, and the Peltier unit ensures that the cheese is stored and served at its ideal temperature, preserving its quality and flavour.
[0063] 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.
[0064] 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 multi-modal cheese serving device, comprising:
i) a cuboidal body 101 embodied with a compartment 102 for category wise segregated storage of cheese;
ii) a touch interactive display panel 103 installed over said body 101 and operatively coupled with a microcontroller, that provides an option of selecting one of the category and amount of cheese along with a preferred serving mode, wherein said modes include a first, second and third mode;
iii) a mechanical link 104 attached with said body 101 via a motorized ball and socket joint, said link 104 having an end portion fabricated with a motorized plate 105, said plate 105 comprising:
a first tool constructed with an arrangement of a grater 106 and a pusher 107, wherein on selection of a first mode, said microcontroller activates a linear actuator 108 attached with said pusher 107 to grate the selected category of cheese sandwiched between said grater 106 and pusher 107;
a second tool constructed an arrangement of a motorized blade 109 and a blower 110, wherein on selection of said second mode, said microcontroller synchronously activates said blower 110 and blade 109 to obtain a smoky cheese;
iv) a conduit assembled over said body 101 and connected with a heating chamber 111, wherein on selection of said third mode, said microcontroller activates a heating element disposed within said chamber 111 to obtain liquid cheese;
v) a robotic arm 112 fabricated with a gripper 113 as an end effector, operatively coupled with said microcontroller to pick the selected category of cheese and place said cheese in said first tool, second tool or heating chamber 111 depending on the mode selected by a user;
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said linear actuator 108 comprises of a motor attached with a quick return mechanism, said mechanism further including a crank fixed with a set of mechanical link 104.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said blower 110 is installed over a slider 114 that translates the blower 110 linearly to blow hot air throughout the surface of the cheese.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said heating chamber 111 is fitted with a pump to channelize the liquid cheese within the conduit.
5) The device as claimed in claim 4, wherein an electronic nozzle 115 is fabricated at an end portion of said conduit to regulate dispensing of the liquid cheese.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said heating chamber 111 includes a thermal sensor operatively coupled to said microcontroller for regulating the temperature.
7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a set of motorized wheels 116 are installed at a bottom portion of said body 101, said wheels 116 being controlled through an interlinking of said microcontroller and a user interface.
8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an integrated assembly of microphone 117 and speaker 118 is linked with said microcontroller to communicate with said user, said microcontroller configured with a machine learning protocol that interfaces with a cloud database to provide responses to the queries of said user.
9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a dual axis lead screw arrangement 119 is installed within said compartment 102, said arrangement 119 coupled with a trimming knife 120 via an extendable rod 121 to cut said cheese into one or more blocks.
10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an AI (artificial intelligence) based imaging unit 122 coupled with said microcontroller to capture and process surrounding images, for locating and categorizing between nearby objects and humans.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521021575-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 2 | 202521021575-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 3 | 202521021575-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 4 | 202521021575-PROOF OF RIGHT [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 5 | 202521021575-POWER OF AUTHORITY [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 6 | 202521021575-FORM-9 [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 7 | 202521021575-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 8 | 202521021575-FORM 18 [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 9 | 202521021575-FORM 1 [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 10 | 202521021575-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 11 | 202521021575-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 12 | 202521021575-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 13 | 202521021575-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 14 | 202521021575-DRAWINGS [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 15 | 202521021575-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 16 | 202521021575-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [10-03-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-03-10 |
| 17 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-03-18 |
| 18 | 202521021575-FORM-26 [03-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-03 |