Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated wooden bowl smoothening device that provides a means to the user in smoothening wooden by measuring and eliminating the presence of moisture on the bowl in order to prevent any means of damage to the bowl.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] A wooden bowl is a versatile, aesthetically pleasing item used in various culinary and decorative applications. Smoothening a wooden bowl is crucial for enhancing its functionality and appearance. It ensures a smooth, even surface that prevents splinters, facilitates easy cleaning, and enhances the bowl’s longevity. A well-smoothened bowl also showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain, providing a refined look. Additionally, smoothening helps prevent food from becoming trapped in imperfections, promoting hygiene and making the bowl more enjoyable to use. Overall, smoothening improves both the practical and visual aspects of wooden bowls. Traditional tools for smoothening wooden bowls include sandpaper, which is used manually or with sanding blocks to gradually remove imperfections; rasps for shaping; and scrapers for fine finishing. These tools rely on manual effort and skill to achieve a smooth surface and refined finish on the wood.

[0003] Traditional tools for smoothening wooden bowls, such as sandpaper and manual sanding blocks, often face several limitations. They require significant manual effort and precision, making the process labor-intensive and time-consuming. Achieving uniform smoothness be challenging, especially on uneven surfaces. Manual tools lack the ability to adapt to varying surface conditions and often result in inconsistent finishes. Additionally, traditional methods be less efficient, as they do not incorporate advanced technologies for detecting and addressing surface imperfections. This lead to prolonged processing times and potentially less professional results compared to automated systems.

[0004] EP2123396A1 discloses about a machine for smoothing or brushing flat surfaces of wooden articles which are in the raw state or to the surface of which one or more paint layers have been previously applied, comprising at least one smoothing/brushing unit, each comprising a smoothing/brushing device and means for moving each unit at least relative to the article flat surface to be smoothed. Each smoothing device comprises a motorized head rotatable about a main axis perpendicular to the flat surface to be smoothed or brushed, the smoothing/brushing device being provided with suction means to maintain a smoothing or brushing element rigid with the motorized head during its rotation, the smoothing or brushing element being provided with an abrasive surface or a brushing surface, respectively, both surfaces facing the article and being parallel to the surface to be smoothed or brushed. EP’396 relates to a machine for smoothing or brushing flat surfaces wooden articles and the relative operating method in accordance with the introduction to the main claims, however the device lacks in applying a systematic and consistent approach to the smoothening process, ensuring that the entire surface of the wooden bowl is evenly treated.

[0005] CN111843678A relates to a wooden furniture sanding device comprising: a frame; the upper end surface of the workbench is a horizontal table surface; the bracket component comprises a bracket which is vertically arranged, and the upper end of the bracket is provided with a slide rail; the polishing assembly comprises a sliding block, the sliding block is arranged on the sliding rail, an expansion piece is arranged on one side end face of the sliding block, and a polishing module is arranged at one end of the expansion piece; the control assembly comprises a sensing module and a control module; the driving component drive the sliding block to move; the wood surface polishing device is provided with the sliding rail and the polishing assembly, so that polishing be carried out in a single direction in the polishing process, and when a polishing block finishes polishing, the polishing head is pushed by the telescopic piece to move along the wood surface; when the grinding block is retracted, the telescopic piece drives the grinding block to leave the surface of the wood; the polishing block is driven to move up and down through the telescopic piece, and the polishing block circularly finish unidirectional polishing, so that wood grains be better presented. CN’678 relate to furniture production facility technical field, especially relate to a wooden furniture grinding device, however the device lacks in adjust the moisture level of the wooden surface to create an ideal surface condition for smoothening.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that relate to furniture production facility technical field, especially relate to a wooden furniture grinding device. However the device lacks in applying a systematic and consistent approach to the smoothening process, ensuring that the entire surface of the wooden bowl is evenly treated as well as lacks in adjust the moisture level of the wooden surface to create an ideal surface condition for smoothening.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of ensuring that the entire surface of the wooden bowl is evenly treated as well as adjust the moisture level of the wooden surface to create an ideal surface condition for smoothening.

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 providing a stable and fixed surface to the wooden bowl in order to ensure that the bowl remains firmly in place during the smoothening process.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of allowing the users to control the smoothening process through voice commands for carrying out the smoothening operation with ease.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of eliminating the moisture content of the wooden bowl in order to enhance the effectiveness of the smoothening process and preventing damage to the bowl’s surface.

[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 wooden bowl smoothening device that is capable of smoothening the wooden bowl by adjusting the moisture level of the wooden surface in order to create an ideal surface condition for smoothening.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated wooden bowl smoothening device comprises of a platform developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, plurality of suction cups are arranged underneath the platform to adhere to the body for securing the body on the surface, a circular slot arranged on the platform for enabling a user to accommodate a wooden bowl to be finished, plurality of suction units are integrated on the slot for adhering to the bowl’s bottom surface in view of securely accommodating the bowl onto the slot, a microphone integrated in the platform for enabling a user to provide input voice commands for smoothening surface of the bowl, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the platform and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of the platform to detect irregularity in surface of the bowl, a plate configured with a buffing pad installed on the platform by means of a telescopically operated rod.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device comprises of a wobble plate crank arrangement integrated in between the rod and plate to move the plate in a predefined zigzag pattern, an angle sensor is embedded in the platform for detecting inclination angle of the buffing pad with respect to the bowl’s surface, a motorized ball and socket joint integrated in between the plate and rod for providing controlled movement to the buffing pad onto the bowl’s uneven surface, a moisture sensor is embedded in the platform for detecting moisture contents of the bowl, an air blower mounted on the platform for providing hot air onto the bowl in view of regulating the bowl’s surface, a DC motor that is actuated in sync with the plate for providing rotational motion to the slot in view of repositioning of the wooden bowl, a battery is configured with the device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered 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 wooden bowl smoothening 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 wooden bowl smoothening device that is capable of detecting the moisture content of the wooden bowl in order to enhance the effectiveness of the smoothening process and preventing surface damage of the bowl.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an automated wooden bowl smoothening device is illustrated, comprising of a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, suction cups 102 are arranged underneath the platform 101, a circular slot 103 arranged on the platform 101, plurality of suction units 104 are integrated on the slot, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 installed on the platform 101, a plate 106 configured with a buffing pad 107 installed on the platform 101 by means of a telescopically operated rod 108, a wobble plate 106 crank arrangement 109 integrated in between the rod 108 and plate 106, a motorized ball and socket joint 110 integrated in between the plate 106 and rod 108, an air blower 111 mounted on the platform 101.

[0023] The proposed device comprises of a platform 101 designed to be positioned on a fixed surface. The platform 101 serves as a stable base, ensuring that any operations or tasks carried out on it are secure and steady. The platform 101's design allows it to be firmly placed on various types of fixed surfaces, providing a reliable foundation for any equipment, tools, or processes that require a solid, immovable base. The platform 101 is made up of stainless steel that offers corrosion resistance, strength and durability to the device and is easy to maintain.

[0024] A push button is integrated in the platform 101 for activating or deactivating the device. The user manually pushes the button, when the button is pressed the electrical circuit gets completed, allowing flow of electric current to actuates a microcontroller associated with the device that regulates the working of the device.

[0025] The platform 101 is attached with multiple suction cups 102 for create a strong grip on the surface, preventing any unwanted movement or slippage. By anchoring the platform 101 securely, the suction cups 102 ensure that the platform 101 remains stable during use, providing a reliable foundation for any tasks or equipment positioned on it. The suction cups 102 used herein are made up of silicone rubber that easily eliminates pressure inside the suction cup and creating a vacuum between the cup and the surface which seals the surface tightly to the suction cup, resisting any slipping of the surface in order to affix the surface with the platform 101.

[0026] A circular slot 103 is arranged on the platform 101 to enable the user to securely accommodate a wooden bowl that is to be finished. The slot is designed to fit the base of the bowl, holding it in place during the finishing process. By providing a dedicated space for the bowl, the slot ensures that the bowl remains stable and centered, allowing for precise and consistent finishing work.

[0027] The circular slot 103 is arranged with multiple suction units 104 to adhere the bottom surface of the wooden bowl. The suction units 104 create a secure grip on the bowl, ensuring the bowl remains firmly in place during the finishing process. By securely accommodating the bowl onto the slot, the suction units 104 prevent any unwanted movement, allowing the user to perform precise finishing tasks with confidence. The suction unit mentioned above comprises of a bowl-shaped cup alike entity having two openings in which one side of the opening has a larger diameter and another side has a smaller diameter wherein the smaller diameter of the cup is attached with a suction pump via conduit that is interlinked with the microcontroller. On actuation, the suction pump creates a negative pressure which in turn a vacuum that is created inside the cup in order securely accommodate the bowl onto the slot.

[0028] The slot is attached to a DC motor which provides rotational motion to the slot, allowing for the repositioning of the wooden bowl, enabling the bowl to be rotated or adjusted as needed during the finishing process. By repositioning the bowl, the motor ensures that all areas of the bowl's surface are accessible for consistent and thorough finishing, improving the overall quality and uniformity of the wood's surface treatment. DC motor works on the principle of electromagnetic induction.

[0029] 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 arrangement, which in turn rotates the frame along with the shaft in an anticlockwise and clockwise rotation, thus allows the repositioning of the wooden bowl.

[0030] A microphone integrated into the platform 101, allows the user to provide input voice commands specifically for smoothening the surface of the wooden bowl. The microphone enables hands-free operation, allowing the user to control the smoothening process through voice commands. By integrating voice control, the platform 101 streamlines the finishing process, making it more efficient and user-friendly. The user focus on the task at hand while easily adjusting or activating the smoothening functions as needed. The microphone contains a small diaphragm connected to a moving coil. When sound waves of the user hit the diaphragm, the coil vibrates. This causes the coil to move back and forth in the magnet's field, generating an electrical current. The signal of which are sent to the microcontroller regarding smoothening the surface of the bowl.

[0031] Upon receiving the users input command, a moisture sensor embedded in the platform 101 detects the moisture content of the wooden bowl. The sensor monitors the level of moisture present in the bowl, providing crucial data that helps in determining the optimal conditions for processing the wood. Accurate moisture detection ensures that the bowl is properly conditioned before further finishing steps, preventing potential issues like cracking or uneven finishing that may occur if the wood is too dry or too wet.

[0032] The moisture sensor measures the moisture content by using properties such as electrical resistance, dielectric constant or interaction with neutrons as a proxy for the moisture content. The measured data is then converted into an analogue value which is further converted into an electrical signal, wherein the electrical signal is sent to the microcontroller. Thus, the microcontroller processes the received signal and determines the moisture level of present in the bowl.

[0033] In case the moisture level recedes a threshold level then the microcontroller activates an air blower 111 mounted on the platform 101 to provide hot air onto the wooden bowl. The hot air helps to regulate the moisture content on the bowl's surface, ensuring that it is in the ideal condition for finishing. The air blower 111 comprises of a vortex, heater, impeller and an outlet duct. The blower increases the pressure of the air drawn for the surrounding of the bowl by a series of vortex motions formed by the centrifugal movement of the impeller.

[0034] Upon actuation of the blower by the microcontroller, the impeller is rotating wherein the channels in the impeller push the drawn air from the surrounding forward through a heating unit, that increase the temperature of the absorbed air by creating the centrifugal movement that generates a helical movement of the air. During this centrifugal movement, the absorbed air is continuously compressed along the channel and the pressure increases linearly. The pressurized air is transferred from the outlet duct of the blower to the surface of the bowl in order to dry the bowl for buffing.

[0035] The microcontroller actuates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 configured on the platform 101 and paired with a processor to capture and process multiple images in the vicinity of the platform 101. The imaging unit 105 specifically detects irregularities on the surface of the wooden bowl. By analyzing the captured images, the artificial intelligence identify any imperfections, such as rough spots, scratches, or uneven surfaces on the bowl.

[0036] The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 comprises of a camera lens and a processor, wherein the 360 degree rotatable camera captures multiple images in vicinity of the platform 101 and then the processor carries out a sequence of steps including pre-processing, feature extraction and segmentation. In pre-processing, the unwanted data like noise, background is removed out and the image is converted into a format recommended for feature extraction. The features like pixel intensities of the foreground image are extracted and are sent for classification to detect irregularity in surface of the bowl.

[0037] Upon detecting the irregularity in surface of the bowl, the microcontroller actuates a telescopically operated rod 108 for providing extension and retraction to position a plate 106 configured with a buffing pad 107 configured on the rod 108 over the uneven surface of the bowl detected by the imaging unit 105. The telescopically operated rod 108 is linked to a pneumatic unit, including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the rod 108.

[0038] The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the plate 106 and due to applied pressure the plate 106 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the telescopically operated rod 108 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the piston in order position the plate 106 over the bowl configured with buffing pad 107 to smooth out the irregularities present on the bowl effectively.

[0039] During buffing of the bowl, an angle sensor embedded in the platform 101 detects the inclination angle of the buffing pad 107 relative to the bowl's surface. The sensor continuously monitors the pad 107 orientation, ensuring optimal contact and consistent pressure is applied during the buffing process. By accurately measuring the angle, the sensor allows for real-time adjustments, maintaining uniformity in the surface finish and preventing uneven polishing or damage. The angle sensor works by detecting changes in the position of a sensitive element due to the angle of inclination. The angles sensor consists of a sensitive element inside a casing, which is often a semiconductor and changes position with the angle of inclination. As the position of the sensitive element changes, it causes a corresponding change in the electrical properties of the sensor. The sensor translates the electrical changes into an output signal for the microcontroller.

[0040] Based on detected inclination angel the microcontroller actuates a motorized ball and socket joint 110 integrated between the plate 106 and the rod 108 to provide controlled movement of the buffing pad 107 over the bowl’s uneven surface. The joint allows the buffing pad 107 to adjust its angle and orientation precisely, ensuring that it conforms to the contours and irregularities of the bowl by maintaining a consistent contact with the surface in order to optimize the sanding process by effectively targeting uneven areas. The motorized ball and socket joint 110 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 buffing pad 107 over the bowl’s uneven surface.

[0041] A wobble plate 106 crank arrangement 109 is integrated between the rod 108 and the plate 106 to facilitate movement of the plate 106 in a predefined zigzag pattern across the surface of the wooden bowl. The motion ensures that the buffing pad 107 rubs evenly over the bowl's surface, providing thorough and consistent sanding coverage. The zigzag movement is designed to reach all areas of the bowl's surface, eliminating irregularities and ensuring a smooth, even finish.

[0042] The wobble plate 106 crank arrangement 109 convert’s rotational motion into linear motion using a tilted disc (the wobble plate) connected to a central shaft. As the shaft rotates, the wobble plate 106 tilts and wobbles without rotating itself. Pistons are connected to the wobble plate 106 via ball joints, allowing them to move in and out as the plate 106 wobbles. This mechanism is often used in axial piston pumps and engines, where the wobble plate 106 movement drives the pistons' linear motion, enabling the conversion of rotational energy into hydraulic pressure or reciprocating engine power for smoothening the bowl. The wobble plate 106 crank arrangement 109 significantly enhances the quality of the surface finishing, effectively smoothening the bowl and achieving a polished, professional appearance.

[0043] 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 requirements.

[0044] The present invention works best in the following manner, comprising of the platform 101 equipped with suction cups 102 for securely affixing the platform 101 with the surface to prevent movement. The wooden bowl is placed in the circular slot 103 on the platform 101, where suction units 104 hold the bowl in position. The microphone on the platform 101 allows users to issue voice commands for the smoothening process. The device includes the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 that captures and analyzes images of the bowl's surface to detect any irregularities. Once irregularities are detected, the microcontroller activates the telescopic rod 108 to adjust the position of the buffing pad 107 mounted on the plate 106. The wobble plate 106 crank arrangement 109 enables the plate 106 to move in the zigzag pattern, ensuring even and thorough sanding of the bowl’s surface. The angle sensor within the platform 101 detects the buffing pad 107 angle relative to the bowl and adjusts the movement of the pad 107 using a motorized ball and socket joint 110 for optimal contact. The moisture sensor measures the bowl's moisture content, prompting the microcontroller to activate the air blower 111 to regulate the surface condition. The circular slot 103 rotate via the DC motor, allowing for repositioning of the bowl as needed.

[0045] 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) An automated wooden bowl smoothening device, comprising:

i) a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, wherein plurality of suction cups 102 are arranged underneath said platform 101 to adhere to said body for securing said body on said surface;
ii) a circular slot 103 arranged on said platform 101 for enabling a user to accommodate a wooden bowl to be finished, wherein plurality of suction units 104 are integrated on said slot for adhering to said bowl’s bottom surface, in view of securely accommodating said bowl onto said slot;
iii) a microphone integrated in said platform 101 for enabling a user to provide input voice commands for smoothening surface of said bowl, wherein an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 installed on said platform 101 and paired with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said platform 101, respectively to detect irregularity in surface of said bowl;
iv) a plate 106 configured with a buffing pad 107, installed on said platform 101 by means of a telescopically operated rod 108, wherein upon detecting said irregularity, said microcontroller actuates said rod 108 to extend/retract for positioning said buffing pad 107 onto said uneven surface; and
v) a wobble plate 106 crank arrangement 109 integrated in between said rod 108 and plate 106 to move said plate 106 in a predefined zigzag pattern, onto said wooden bowl’s surface, which in turn rubs said buffing pad 107 onto said surface, for ensuring thorough and even sanding coverage of said wooden surface, in view of properly finishing said wooden bowl surface, thereby smoothening said bowl.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an angle sensor is embedded in said platform 101 for detecting inclination angle of said buffing pad 107 with respect to said bowl’s surface, based on which said microcontroller actuates a motorized ball and socket joint 110 integrated in between said plate 106 and rod 108 for providing controlled movement to said buffing pad 107 onto said bowl’s uneven surface.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a moisture sensor is embedded in said platform 101 for detecting moisture contents of said bowl, in accordance to which said microcontroller actuates an air blower 111 mounted on said platform 101 for providing hot air onto said bowl, in view of regulating said bowl’s surface.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said slot is attached with a DC motor that is actuated in sync with said plate 106, for providing rotational motion to said slot, in view of repositioning of said wooden bowl.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said device.