Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated ingredients mixing device that is capable of efficient and precise blending/mixing of edible ingredients by automatically adjusting the mixing speed based on real-time viscosity measurements of the mixture in order to obtain a mixture of desired consistency.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Various ingredients, such as flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and liquids, often need to be mixed or blended in cooking and baking to create batters, doughs, sauces, and emulsions. Proper mixing ensures uniform distribution of ingredients, leading to consistent texture, flavor, and appearance in the final product. For example, in baking, thorough mixing of dry and wet ingredients is crucial to achieving the correct rise and texture in cakes and bread. Proper consistency is also vital in emulsifying liquids, like oil and vinegar in dressings, to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, stable mixture.

[0003] Traditionally, ingredients are mixed using manual tools such as wooden spoons, whisks, spatulas, and bowls. Dry ingredients are often combined by hand, sometimes sifted to remove clumps, while wet ingredients are beaten or stirred until smooth. Doughs are kneaded by hand on a flat surface to develop the proper texture. Mortars and pestles are used to grind and blend herbs and spices. Traditional mixing methods have several drawbacks, including inconsistency in results due to variations in manual effort and skill. They are time-consuming and physically demanding, especially for larger quantities or thicker mixtures. Achieving uniform consistency can be challenging, leading to uneven texture or incomplete blending. Additionally, manual methods lack precision in controlling factors like speed, temperature, and viscosity, which can affect the quality of the final product. These limitations make traditional methods less efficient and reliable.

[0004] US4854718A discloses about a manual blender comprising a circular vessel body having a spout; a lid suitable for covering the vessel body; a spinning means with a knob, which facilitates the manual spin, and an annular gear formed circumferentially in an inner side wall thereof; and a masher means having an axle, a pair of opposite bent arms, beating rod members properly disposed on the axle and bent arms, and a gear coaxially provided on the top portion of the axle, eccentrically engaged with the annular gear of the spinning means as the masher means is coaxially and rotatably installed in the circular vessel body between the lid and the vessel body. Though, US’718 discloses about an invention that relates to a manual blender. However, the cited invention lacks in automatically blending the ingredients.

[0005] WO9921466A1 discloses about a food blending apparatus and a method of blending food within a container with the object of providing a hygienic system whereby disposable containers are charged with product at a location remote from consumption. After filling with ingredients the container is sealed and then cooled. Containers include an integral blender which when connected to a drive enable the product to be blended at the point of consumption after location in driving connection with the drive means. Product is accessed through a sealed opening of the container after opening the seal. After consumption the container is disposed of and is constructed to make disposal economical. Though, WO’466 discloses about an invention that relates to a food blending apparatus. However, the cited invention lacks in adjusting the mixing speed according to the viscosity of the ingredients.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of assisting a user in mixing ingredients. However, these devices are incapable of automatically adjusting the mixing speed according to the viscosity of the ingredients, and fails in reducing manual efforts. Additionally, these existing devices also lack in maintaining an optimum temperature of the mixture.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of mixing different ingredients in an automated manner by adjusting the mixing speed as per the viscosity of the mixture. In addition, the developed device also monitors and maintains an optimum temperature of the mixture while mixing to avoid any reaction or degradation.

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 mixing/blending various ingredients/items in an automated manner, thereby allowing users to achieve optimal results with minimal manual intervention.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of automatically adjusting the mixing speed and stirring movement by monitoring the viscosity of the items, thus ensuring that the mixture achieves the desired consistency.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of maintaining an optimal temperature of the items while mixing, thereby preventing degradation or adverse reactions that might occur if items are too hot or too cold.

[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 an automated ingredients mixing device that is capable of mixing different edible items/ ingredients in order to obtain a mixture of desired consistency. Further the device is capable of automatically adjusts mixing speed based on real-time viscosity measurements, ensuring consistent and thorough blending of food items.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated ingredients mixing device comprises of a L-shaped plate developed to be positioned on a fixed horizontal surface, plurality of suction cups are arranged underneath horizontal base of the plate for affixing the plate over the surface, a hollow cylindrical body arranged on the horizontal base that is accessed by a user for accommodating different items that are to be mixed, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit is installed on the platform and integrated with a processor to determine accommodation of different items inside the body, a pair of inverted L-shaped telescopic bar assembled on apex of the plate that are actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller for placing an inverted U-shaped link attached with free-ends of the bar inside the member, which results in immersing a rectangular frame attached with free-ends of the link inside the food item.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a viscosity sensor configured on the frame for detecting viscosity of the food items, a DC (Direct Current) electric motor coupled with the link to rotate the frame with an optimum speed in view of mixing the accommodated items, synchronously a motorized stirrer configured on the frame also rotate for blending the items rigorously, a temperature sensor is configured on the member for detecting temperature of surroundings, a Peltier unit configured inside the member for maintaining an optimal temperature inside the member, a rpm (revolution per minute) sensor is configured on the link for detecting speed of the frame, 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 an isometric view of an automated ingredients mixing 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 an automated ingredients mixing device that is capable of blending/mixing different items in an automated manner to achieve the desired consistency of mixture which is further used for different purposes. Additionally, the proposed device also maintains an optimum temperature of the items while mixing in order to prevent degradation or adverse reactions.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an automated ingredients mixing device is illustrated, comprising a L-shaped plate 101, plurality of suction cups 102 arranged underneath horizontal base of the plate 101, a hollow cylindrical body 103 arranged on horizontal base, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 is installed on the plate 101, a pair of inverted L-shaped telescopic bar 105 assembled on apex of the plate 101, an inverted U-shaped link 106 attached with free-ends of the bar 105, a rectangular frame 107 attached with free-ends of the link 106, and a motorized stirrer 108 configured on the frame 107.

[0023] The device disclosed herein comprises of a L-shaped plate 101 incorporating various components associated with the device and positioned over a fixed horizontal surface. The plate 101 serves as the core structure and is made up of strong, lightweight and durable material that includes but not limited to hardened steel, aluminum alloy, hard fiber, and composite materials that offer strength and rigidity to the plate 101, making it resistant to mechanical stress and pressure. The surface of the plate 101 is coated with material like Teflon or other low-friction coatings to improve wear resistance and reduce friction.

[0024] The plate 101 is having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the plate 101 serves as the horizontal base that rests on the fixed horizontal surface. It is designed with a flat, wide surface to provide stability and support during the use and the second portion is the vertical component of the plate 101 which extend upwards from the first portion. Multiple suction cups 102 (ranging from 4 to 6 in numbers) are arranged underneath the horizontal base of the plate 101 for affixing the plate 101 over the surface. The suction cups 102 are used to create a vacuum seal between the fixed surface and the plate 101. When the suction cups 102 are pressed against the fixed surface by a user, the initial contact creates a seal between the cup’s flexible rim and the surface.

[0025] The suction cup used herein are made up of silicone rubber that easily eliminates pressure inside the suction cup for creating a vacuum between the cup and the fixed surface in order to affix the plate 101 firmly with the fixed surface. Upon affixing the plate 101, the user is required to access a hollow cylindrical body 103 arranged on the horizontal base for accommodating different items that are to be mixed. The cylindrical body 103 consists of an open upper end that allows for the easy insertion and removal of the items, and the lower end of the cylindrical body 103 is securely fixed to the horizontal base for ensuring stability during the mixing process. The internal surface of the body 103 is smooth in order to facilitate effective mixing and prevent adhesion of the materials being mixed.

[0026] Upon accommodating different items that are to be mixed, the user is required to activate the device manually by pressing a button installed on the plate 101 and linked with an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the device. The button is a type of switch that is internally connected with the device via multiple circuits that upon pressing by the user, the circuits get closed and starts conduction of electricity that tends to activate the device and vice versa. After activation of the device by the user, the microcontroller generates a command to actuate an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 installed on the plate 101 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of the plate 101.

[0027] The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 comprises of a high-resolution camera lens, digital camera sensor and a processor, wherein the lens captures multiple images from different angles and perspectives in vicinity of the plate 101 with the help of digital camera sensor for providing comprehensive coverage of the body 103. The captured images then go through pre-processing steps by the processor integrated with the camera. The processor carries out a sequence of image processing operation including pre-processing, feature extraction and classification in order to enhance the image quality, which includes adjusting brightness and contrast and removing any distortion or noise. The pre-processed images are transmitted to the microcontroller linked with the processor in the form of electrical signals.

[0028] The microcontroller further processes the received signals in order to determine accommodation of different items inside the body 103. The apex of the second portion of the plate 101 is installed with a pair of inverted L-shaped telescopic bar 105 whose free ends are attached with an inverted U-shaped link 106, wherein upon successful determination of different items inside the body 103, the microcontroller generates a command to actuate the telescopic bar 105 to extend/retract for placing the link 106 inside the member. The extension/ retraction of the bar 105 is powered by a pneumatic unit associated with device, that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the bars 105.

[0029] The air compressor used herein extract the air from surrounding and increases the pressure of the air by reducing the volume of the air. The air compressor is consisting of two main parts including a motor and a pump. The motor powers the compressor pump which uses the energy from the motor drive to draw in atmospheric air and compress to elevated pressure. The compressed air is then sent through a discharge tube into the cylinder across the valve. The compressed air in the cylinder tends to pushes out the piston to extend. The piston is attached to the bar 105, wherein the extension of the piston corresponds to the extension of the bar 105 in order to place the inverted U-shaped link 106 inside the member, which results in immersing of a rectangular frame 107 attached with free-ends of the link 106 inside the food item.

[0030] Upon immersion of the frame 107 inside the food item, the microcontroller in association with a viscosity sensor configured on the frame 107, detects viscosity of the food items. The viscosity sensor used herein consist of a sensor element and a transducer. The sensor element interacts with the food item by moving through the food item. As the sensor element moves through the food item, it encounters resistance from the food item viscosity. The transducer measures the force exerted on the sensor element due to this resistance and converts the measured force into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is further transferred to the linked microcontroller.

[0031] The microcontroller processes and condition the received signal to determine the density of the food item and based on which the microcontroller generates a command to actuate a DC (Direct Current) electric motor coupled with the link 106 to rotate the frame 107 with an optimum speed, in view of mixing the accommodated items. The electric motor used herein derives electrical power from an external power source.

[0032] When the current flows through the motor, it passes through the windings on the rotor (armature). This current generates a magnetic field around the windings. The interaction between this magnetic field and the magnetic field of the stator (either from permanent magnets or electromagnets) creates a torque on the rotor. This torque causes the rotor to rotate, converting the electrical energy from the current into mechanical energy, which is further used to rotate the frame 107 with an optimum speed for mixing the accommodated items. The speed of the DC motor is controlled by the microcontroller based on real-time viscosity readings.

[0033] While the DC motor rotates the frame 107, the microcontroller actuates a motorized stirrer 108 configured on the frame 107 to rotate in synchronization with the frame 107, for blending the items rigorously. This synchronization ensures that both the frame 107 and the stirrer 108 work in harmony, allowing for a more effective and uniform mixing process. The motorized stirrer 108 consists of a set of blades attached to a motor that is interlinked with the microcontroller. On actuation, the microcontroller regulates the movement of the motor followed by the movement of the blades for blending the items rigorously and ensuring thorough mixing.

[0034] While mixing of the items, the microcontroller in association with a rpm (revolution per minute) sensor configured on the link 106, detects speed of the frame 107. The rpm sensor used herein is an optical RPM sensor that measures rotational speed using light and a rotating disc. It consists of a light source (LED or laser) and a light detector (photodiode or phototransistor). The rotating disc, attached to the rotating component, has alternating opaque and transparent sections. As the disc spins, it periodically interrupts the light beam emitted by the light source. The detector converts these interruptions into electrical pulses. The frequency of these pulses correlates to the rotation speed, allowing the sensor to calculate RPM of the frame 107. This data is further transferred to the microcontroller in the form of electrical signals.

[0035] The microcontroller continuously processes the received signals in order to monitor rotational speed of the frame 107 and based on the detected viscosity of the items, the microcontroller regulates operation of the DC electric motors to adjust the mixing speed and stirrer 108 movement, ensuring that the mixture achieves the desired consistency. If the detected viscosity is thicker (i.e., higher), the microcontroller increases the motor’s speed to ensure sufficient force is applied to mix the items thoroughly. Conversely, if the viscosity is lower, the microcontroller reduces the motor speed to avoid over-mixing or splashing.

[0036] During the mixing process, the microcontroller by means of a temperature sensor configured on the member, detect temperature of surroundings. The temperature sensor used herein is preferably a non-contact temperature sensor that detect the temperature by optical analysis of the infrared radiation present in the surroundings. On activation, the sensor employs a lens to focus the infrared radiation present in the surroundings, onto a detector known as a thermopile. When the infrared radiation falls on the thermopile surface, it gets absorbed and converts into heat. Voltage output is produced in proportion to the incident infrared energy. The detector uses this output to detect the ambient temperature of surroundings. The measured temperature is then converted into electrical signal which is received by the microcontroller.

[0037] The microcontroller continuously processes the signal to monitor the temperature of surroundings and accordingly generates a command to activate a Peltier unit configured inside the member to maintain an optimal temperature within the member. The Peltier unit is a thermoelectric cooler that uses the Peltier effect to transfer heat from one side of the unit to the other when an electrical current is passed. The Peltier unit consists of two semiconductor materials connected in a sandwich-like fashion. These materials are typically made of bismuth telluride and one side of the Peltier unit is called the hot side and the other is the cold side.

[0038] When a direct current is applied to the Peltier unit, electrodes within the semiconductor material start moving from one side to the other. The Peltier effect occurs as a result of electron movement. When electrons flow from the cold side to the hot side, they carry heat with them. This leads to one side of the Peltier unit becoming colder, and the other side becoming hooter. This effect allows the Peltier unit to effectively transfer heat from one side to the other, creating a temperature gradient in order to maintain an optimum temperature level within the member, thereby preventing degradation or adverse reactions that could occur if items are too hot or too cold.

[0039] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirement.

[0040] The present invention works best in the following manner where the L-shaped plate 101 is developed to be positioned on the fixed horizontal surface via multiple suction cups 102. The hollow cylindrical body 103 is arranged on the horizontal base that is accessed by the user for accommodating different items that are to be mixed. After which the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 determine accommodation of different items inside the body 103 and upon successful detection the microcontroller actuates the pair of inverted L-shaped telescopic bar 105 for placing the inverted U-shaped link 106 inside the member which results in immersing the rectangular frame 107 attached with free-ends of the link 106 inside the food item. The viscosity sensor detects viscosity of the food items and accordingly the DC electric motor rotate the frame 107 with optimum speed for mixing the accommodated items. Synchronously the motorized stirrer 108 also rotates for blending the items rigorously. The temperature sensor detects temperature of surroundings and accordingly the Peltier unit maintains optimal temperature inside the member while mixing of the accommodated items.

[0041] 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 individuals skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) An automated ingredients mixing device, comprising:

i) a L-shaped plate 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed horizontal surface, wherein plurality of suction cups 102 are arranged underneath horizontal base of said plate 101 for affixing said plate 101 over said surface;
ii) a hollow cylindrical body 103 arranged on said horizontal base that is accessed by a user for accommodating different items that includes but not limited to powders, liquids, and granules that are to be mixed, wherein an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 is installed on said plate 101 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of said plate 101, respectively to determine accommodation of said different items inside said body 103;
iii) a pair of inverted L-shaped telescopic bar 105 assembled on apex of said plate 101 that are actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller for placing an inverted U-shaped link 106 attached with free-ends of said bar 105 inside said member, which results in immersing a rectangular frame 107 attached with free-ends of said link 106 inside said food item;
iv) a viscosity sensor configured on said frame 107 for detecting viscosity of said food items, wherein based on which said microcontroller actuates a DC (Direct Current) electric motor coupled with said link 106 to rotate said frame 107 with an optimum speed, in view of mixing said accommodated items, and synchronously said microcontroller actuates a motorized stirrer 108 configured on said frame 107 to rotate for blending said items rigorously; and
v) a temperature sensor is configured on said member for detecting temperature of surroundings, wherein based on which said microcontroller regulates actuation of a Peltier unit configured inside said member for maintaining an optimal temperature inside said member, thereby preventing degradation or adverse reactions that could occur if items are too hot or too cold.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a rpm (revolution per minute) sensor is configured on said link 106 for detecting speed of said frame 107, and based on viscosity of said items, said microcontroller regulates actuation of said DC electric motor, thereby adjusting the mixing speed and stirrer 108 movement, ensuring that the mixture achieves the desired consistency.

3) 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.