Abstract: An automated pawpaw based jam preparation system, comprising an assembly line 100, installed with multiple sections arranged in a series, a first platform 201 with an overhead motorized gripper 202 and lateral peeler 203 grip, rotate and peel a pawpaw, a second platform 204 embodied with a cutting unit and a suction unit to cut and extract inedible portions of the pawpaw, a set of motorized blades 302 blending the pawpaw received from pre-processing sections 101, a dedicated nozzle 304 dispensing the ingredients within chamber 301, multiple Peltier units 402 heating liquid stored within vessel 401, a container 501 receiving the blend of pawpaw, multiple chamber 301 stored with a second set of ingredients, a testing chamber 301, inbuilt with a heating element 505, an imaging unit 506 and a motorized rotatable spatula 507, to perform a wrinkle test over the blend of pawpaw.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an automated pawpaw based jam preparation system that is developed to automates the production of fruit-based food products such as jam. More specifically the system efficiently managing multiple stages in the preparation of fruit jam, in view of ensuring high-quality, consistent products with minimal human intervention, thereby minimizing waste and human intervention.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Making pawpaw jam by hand is quite a hassle. First, the user has to peel and cut the pawpaw manually, which takes a lot of time and result in wasting a lot of fruit. Then, blending it into a smooth mixture isn’t easy. The result might end up with chunks or a watery mix, making the consistency hard to control. When cooking the jam, using a regular pot cause it to heat unevenly, so user might burn the jam or not cook it enough. Adding ingredients like sugar or spices is done by guesswork, which mess with the flavour. If the ingredients aren't mixed properly or if the heat is off, the jam might not turn out the way you want. This whole process takes a lot of effort and time, especially when making a large batch. In the end, it’s tough to get the perfect, consistent jam without a lot of trial and error.
[0003] Traditionally, pawpaw jam was made by hand using basic kitchen tools. People would peel the pawpaw with a knife, cut it by hand into chunks, and mash it with a hand-powered blender or mortar and pestle. This method worked, but the method was extremely slow and labour-intensive, requiring the constant attention of the cook. So, people also use electric peelers, commercial blenders, and automated cooking pots for improving efficiency and consistency. But high-end tools such as commercial peelers, blenders, and automated cooking systems is quite expensive. For small-scale producers or home cooks, the initial investment is a barrier.
[0004] CN103141730B discloses about an invention that includes a preparation method of papaya jam. Firstly, the peel and seeds of a papaya are removed, the papaya is cut into blocks, Chinese wolfberry fruits and longan pulp are stirred through a beater and put in an aluminum pot or a stainless steel pot, white granulated sugar is added, the mixture is stewed to be boiled with big fire, and then is stewed with small-medium fire for 20-30 minutes until the papaya is soft, when the papaya begins to be fluffy, lemon juice or dark plum juice is added, the mixture continues to be stewed with small-medium fire and is stirred continuously for 29-30 minutes, when the papaya is pasty, malt sugar is added and stirred continuously until the malt sugar is melt, the jam can be filled into cans after being thick, and at last products are obtained through industrial sterilization. The prepared papaya jam is unique in taste, is good in mouth-feeling, meets the requirements of being scented, sweet, appetizing, nutrient, delicious and portable for people, has the effects of enriching the blood, reinforcing Qi and beautifying the features, and is particularly suitable for being eaten by women (pregnant women).
[0005] CN110506913A discloses about an invention that includes a kind of jam and preparation method thereof, belong to jam processing technique field, the jam is by including that following raw material prepares: navel orange pericarp, xylitol, citric acid and water;The mass ratio of the navel orange pericarp, xylitol and citric acid is 80~120:50~70:0.3~0.8;The soluble solid content of the jam is 38%~42%.The present invention makes jam using navel orange peel and xylitol as primary raw material, not only remains the fragrant and sweet of traditional jams, but also navel orange peel is utilized to make the pharmacological effect and xylitol of human body the characteristic of blood glucose rise, has many beneficial effects to the health of people. Jam of the invention has the advantages that sour and sweet palatability, unique flavor and full of nutrition.
[0006] Conventionally, many systems have been developed that are capable of preparing fruit jam. However, these systems are incapable of minimizing waste of fruits and ingredients during the preparation operation. Additionally, these existing systems also lack in allowing the user to select, adjust, and incorporate various ingredients based on preference, dietary needs, or product requirements.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that is capable of minimizing waste by optimizing the use of ingredients, in view of ensuring that the maximum amount of the fruit is utilized and only the necessary ingredients are added. In addition, the developed systema also offers flexibility in ingredient handling, by allowing the user to select, adjust, and incorporate various ingredients based on preference, dietary needs, or product requirements.
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 system that is capable of automating the entire process of pawpaw preparation, including peeling, cutting, blending, and heating, reducing the need for manual labour and increasing the speed of production.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that ensure that each batch of the product meets the same high standards by precisely controlling every stage of the process, from jam preparation to final testing.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of conducting quality checks during the process, for ensuring the texture and consistency of the final product before the product is packaged.
[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that improve hygiene and safety by minimizing human contact during the production process, thus reduces the risk of contamination and promotes a cleaner and safer production environment.
[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 an automated pawpaw based jam preparation system that facilitate the complete automation of pawpaw processing, encompassing tasks such as removing the skin, slicing, mixing, and warming, thereby decreasing reliance on manual labour and accelerating the overall production rate.
[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated pawpaw based jam preparation system comprises of, an assembly line, installed with a plurality of sections arranged in a series, the sections including one or more pre-processing sections, blending section, heating section and testing section, each of the section includes a motorized robotic link that is controlled by a motor driver to transfer the pawpaw in between the sections, a first platform with an overhead motorized gripper and lateral peeler installed within the pre-processing section to grip, rotate and peel a pawpaw, the lateral peeler is installed over a motorized slider to provide a linear movement to the peeler, a second platform, configured with the pre-processing section, embodied with a cutting unit and a suction unit to cut and extract inedible portions of the pawpaw, the cutting unit consist of a blade installed on a multi-directional lead screw and the suction unit consist of a flexible pipe, a robotic arm and a vacuum unit, the robotic arm is integrated with a three finger gripper as an end effector to grip and position an end portion of the flexible pipe at multiple sections of the pawpaw to extract the inedible portions, a chamber with a set of motorized blades installed within the blending section to blend the pawpaw received from the pre-processing section, and a set of reservoirs stored with a first set of ingredients, each reservoir having a dedicated nozzle connected with the reservoir, to dispense the ingredients within the chamber.
[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes a hollow vessel installed within the heating section and constructed with a plurality of Peltier units integrated within the surfaces of the vessel, to heat liquid stored within the vessel, a replaceable pouch installed within the vessel and partially dipped within the liquid, the pouch having an inlet section to ingress a blend of pawpaw and an outlet section to egress the blend of pawpaw post heating, each of the inlet and outlet sections are installed with an iris lid operated by the microcontroller based on an output of an integrated level sensor and temperature sensor that detects level and temperature of the blend of pawpaw within the pouch, a container connected with the outlet section to receive the blend of pawpaw, the container comprising a plurality of boxes stored with a second set of ingredients, each having a dedicated valve selectively operated by the microcontroller to dispense the second set of ingredients within the blend of pawpaw, a touch interactive display panel is installed within the assembly line that provides an option of selecting one or more of the second set of ingredients, and a testing tank, inbuilt with a heating element, an imaging unit and a motorized rotatable spatula, operated by the microcontroller to perform a wrinkle test over the blend of pawpaw.
[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 an automated pawpaw based jam preparation system;
Figure 2 a perspective view of a pre-processing sections associated with the present invention;
Figure 3 a perspective view of a blending section associated with the present invention;
Figure 4 a perspective view of a heating section associated with the present invention; and
Figure 5 a perspective view of a testing section associated with the present invention.
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 an automated pawpaw based jam preparation system that enable full automation of pawpaw handling, covering stages like peeling, chopping, blending, and heating, thus minimizes the need for human effort and boosts production efficiency.
[0023] Referring to Figure 1 and 2 a perspective view of an automated pawpaw based jam preparation system and a perspective view of pre-processing sections associated with the present invention is illustrated, respectively, comprising an assembly line 100, installed with a plurality of sections arranged in a series, the sections including one or more pre-processing sections 101, blending section 102, heating section 103 and testing section 104.
[0024] Referring to Figure 2, a first platform 201 with an overhead motorized gripper 202 and lateral peeler 203 installed within the pre-processing sections 101, a second platform 204, configured with the pre-processing sections 101, embodied with a cutting unit and a suction unit, the lateral peeler 203 is installed over a motorized slider 205, the cutting unit consist of a blade 206 installed on a multi-directional lead screw 207 and the suction unit consist of a flexible pipe, a robotic arm 208 and a vacuum unit 209, each of the section includes a motorized robotic link 210, a touch interactive display panel 211 is installed within the assembly line 100.
[0025] The system disclosed herein comprising an assembly line 100 that consist multiple sequential sections, each designed for a specific phase in the processing of the pawpaw. These sections include, but are not limited to, one or more pre-processing sections 101, a blending section 102, a heating section 103, and a testing section 104. The pre-processing sections 101 are configured to perform initial operations on the pawpaw, such as peeling, cutting, or cleaning. The blending section 102 is designed for the mixing of the pawpaw with other ingredients, while the heating section 103 ensures that the mixture reaches the necessary temperature for optimal processing. Finally, the testing section 104 is incorporated to assess the quality and consistency of the processed mixture. Each section is integrated within the assembly line 100 to function collectively, optimizing the efficiency and effectiveness of the overall process.
[0026] A touch interactive display panel 211 is integrated into the assembly line 100, allowing the user to provide input commands through touch gestures. This panel 211 serves as the primary interface for controlling the operation of the assembly line 100 and its connected components. The touch interactive display panel 211 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 controlling the operation of the assembly line 100 and its connected components.
[0027] Each section of the assembly line 100 is equipped with a motorized robotic link 210, which is controlled by a motor driver to facilitate the movement of the pawpaw between the different sections. This robotic link 210 ensures the smooth and efficient transfer of the pawpaw from one stage to the next, minimizing manual handling and optimizing the flow of materials throughout the entire process. The motor driver precisely controls the movement of the robotic link 210, ensuring accurate and timely transitions between each stage of the assembly line 100.
[0028] The motor driver functions by receiving control signals from a microcontroller, which determines the direction, speed, and timing of the motor's operation. Upon receiving the control input, the motor driver energizes the motor windings accordingly, enabling the motor to rotate in the desired direction and at the required speed in order to control the movement of the robotic link 210 aids the link 210 in performing desired operation.
[0029] The robotic link 210 comprises, motor controllers, arm, end effector and sensors. All these parts are configured with the microcontroller. The elbow is at the middle section of the arm that allows the upper part of the arm to move the lower section independently. Lastly, the wrist is at the tip of the upper arm and attached to the end effector which is further attached with a link 210. The link 210 comprises an electric motor and linked with the microcontroller. The microcontroller provides a signal relating to the force, position, or the speed required of the gripping. The link 210 receives the signal and its motor carries out the gripping of the pawpaw for transferring the pawpaw in between the sections.
[0030] A first platform 201 is located within the pre-processing sections 101, equipped with an overhead motorized gripper 202 and a lateral peeler 203. The motorized gripper 202 is designed to securely grip and rotate the pawpaw, facilitating its handling during the subsequent stages of processing. The lateral peeler 203 is configured to remove the outer skin of the pawpaw by moving laterally across its surface. Both the motorized gripper 202 and peeler 203 are integrated into the first platform 201, to execute precise and coordinated actions. This arrangement ensures efficient and effective peeling of the pawpaw with minimal manual intervention.
[0031] The motorized gripper 202 operates as a robotic hand that is designed to grasp the pawpaw effectively. The gripper typically incorporates a motorized arrangement that controls the opening and closing of the jaws of the gripper 202. The motor generates the necessary force to move the gripper’s fingers for the opening and closing of the jaws with precision. This motorized action is often controlled by the microcontroller for the smooth and precise gripping of pawpaw for further operation.
[0032] The lateral peeler 203 is mounted on a motorized slider 205, which allows the peeler 203 to move laterally across the pawpaw’s surface. Once the pawpaw is securely held in place by the motorized gripper 202, the motor drives the lateral peeler 203 across the fruit’s skin, applying a consistent peeling force. The blade of the peeler 203 is positioned to engage with the skin of the pawpaw, effectively removing it as the peeler 203 moves across the fruit. The motorized slider 205 ensures smooth, controlled movement, enabling the peeler 203 to cover the entire surface of the pawpaw, peeling it uniformly without damaging the edible portion.
[0033] The slider 205 consists of a pair of sliding rail fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of a sliding arrangement 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 205 results in linear movement to the peeler 203 in order to aid the peeler 203 in performing required operation.
[0034] A second platform 204 within the pre-processing sections 101, integrated with a cutting unit and a suction unit to efficiently remove inedible portions of the pawpaw. The cutting unit comprises a blade 206 mounted on a multi-directional lead screw 207, which enables precise and adjustable cutting actions. The suction unit consists of a flexible pipe, a robotic arm 208, and a vacuum unit 209, working in tandem to extract the inedible portions post-cutting. The robotic arm 208 works similarly as of link 210 mentioned above and is configured to position the flexible pipe at various sections of the pawpaw. Synchronously, the vacuum unit 209 provides the necessary suction force to remove the undesired portions, ensuring an optimized and clean processing of the pawpaw.
[0035] The lead screw 207 operates by converting rotational motion into precise linear motion. When the motor drives the lead screw 207, it rotates, causing the blade 206 of the cutting unit, which is mounted on the nut of the lead screw 207, to move in a multi-directional path along the pawpaw. The lead screw 207 multi-directional design allows the blade 206 to adjust its position horizontally and vertically, enabling the cutting of inedible portions from different angles of the pawpaw. The motion of the lead screw 207 ensures that the blade 206 remains in the desired cutting position, providing accurate and consistent cuts to remove unwanted sections of the pawpaw.
[0036] Synchronously, the vacuum unit 209 creates a low-pressure zone through suction. When activated, the vacuum pump draws air from the flexible pipe, generating a vacuum effect. This negative pressure causes inedible portions of the pawpaw, which are positioned by the robotic arm 208, to be slurped into the pipe. The suction force ensures that the unwanted material is efficiently removed, while the flexible pipe is maneuverer by the robotic arm 208 to target specific sections of the pawpaw. The vacuum unit 209 ensures effective extraction without contaminating the edible fruit.
[0037] The robotic arm 208 disclosed above is integrated with a three-finger gripper, which functions as the end effector to manipulate and position the flexible pipe at various sections of the pawpaw. The three-finger gripper is designed to securely grip and hold the end portion of the flexible pipe, allowing for precise placement and movement across the pawpaw. The robotic arm 208, controlled by a motor, positions the pipe at multiple predetermined locations on the pawpaw, enabling the suction unit to effectively extract the inedible portions.
[0038] Referring to Figure 3, a perspective view of blending section associated with the present invention is illustrated, comprising a chamber 301 with a set of motorized blades 302 installed within the blending section 102, a set of reservoirs 303 having a dedicated nozzle 304.
[0039] A chamber 301 within the blending section 102 is equipped with a set of motorized blades 302, controlled by a motor. Upon receiving the pawpaw from the pre-processing sections 101, the microcontroller activates the motor, causing the blades 302 to rotate at specified speeds and directions. The microcontroller ensures precise control over the movement of the blades 302, optimizing the blending process to achieve the desired texture and consistency of the pawpaw blend. The motorized blades 302 ensure efficient and uniform blending, resulting in a consistent pawpaw mixture.
[0040] A set of reservoirs 303, each containing a first set of ingredients including but not limited to encapsulated probiotics, installed within the chamber 301. Each reservoir 303 is equipped with a dedicated nozzle 304, which is connected to the respective reservoir 303. The nozzle 304 is activated by the microcontroller, which controls the dispensing of ingredients into the chamber 301. Upon receiving the appropriate command from the microcontroller, the nozzle 304 releases the ingredients from the reservoir 303 into the chamber 301. The precise control provided by the microcontroller ensures that the correct quantity and type of ingredient are dispensed, allowing for accurate and consistent mixing within the chamber 301 to achieve the desired formulation of the pawpaw blend.
[0041] Referring to Figure 4, a perspective view of a heating section associated with the present invention is illustrated, comprising a hollow vessel 401 installed within the heating section 103 and constructed with a plurality of Peltier units 402 integrated within the surfaces of the vessel 401, a replaceable pouch 403 installed within the vessel 401.
[0042] A hollow vessel 401 installed within the heating section 103, which is constructed with a plurality of Peltier units 402 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) integrated into the surfaces of the vessel 401. The Peltier units 402 consist of two semiconductor plates, known as Peltier plates, connected in series and sandwiched between two ceramic plates. When an electric current is applied to the Peltier units 402, one side of the unit 402 absorbs heat from its surroundings, while the other side releases heat, thereby heat liquid stored within the vessel 401.
[0043] A replaceable pouch 403 installed within the vessel 401, partially submerged in the liquid. This pouch 403 is designed with an inlet section that allows the ingress of the pawpaw blend into the pouch 403 and an outlet section that permits the egress of the blend once it has been heated. The inlet section ensures that the pawpaw blend enters the pouch 403 from the blending section 102, while the outlet section allows the heated blend to flow out of the pouch 403 after it has reached the desired temperature. The replaceable nature of the pouch 403 enables easy removal and replacement, ensuring hygienic and efficient processing of subsequent batches.
[0044] Each of the inlet and outlet sections of the pouch 403 is equipped with an iris lid, which is controlled by the microcontroller. The microcontroller operates the iris lids based on data received from an integrated level and temperature sensor. The sensor continuously monitors the level and temperature of the pawpaw blend within the pouch 403. When the sensor detects a specific temperature or level, the microcontroller activates the iris lids to either open or close, ensuring precise control over the flow of the pawpaw blend into or out of the pouch 403. This automation maintains optimal processing conditions and prevents overfilling or underheating of the pouch 403 during the heating process.
[0045] The level sensor detects the amount of pawpaw blend inside the pouch 403 by measuring the height or volume of the liquid. As the level of the blend rises or falls within the pouch 403, the sensor detects this change and sends a signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller uses this signal to determine whether the inlet or outlet iris lid should open or close, controlling the flow of the blend. The sensor ensures that the blend remains within the optimal range, preventing overflow or underfilling by providing continuous feedback on the blend’s level.
[0046] The temperature sensor continuously monitors the temperature of the pawpaw blend within the pouch 403. The temperature sensor detects the heat level by measuring resistance or voltage changes in response to temperature variations. Once the blend reaches the desired temperature, the sensor sends a signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then processes this data to activate or deactivate the iris lids, controlling the flow of the blend in or out of the pouch 403 and ensuring that the blend is at the correct temperature before further processing.
[0047] Referring to Figure 5, a perspective view of a testing section associated with the present invention is illustrated, comprising a container 501 connected with the outlet of the vessel 401, the container 501 comprising a plurality of boxes 502, each having a dedicated valve 503, a testing tank 504, inbuilt with a heating element 505, an imaging unit 506 and a motorized rotatable spatula 507, a motorized stirrer 508 is installed within the container 501.
[0048] A container 501 connected to the outlet section of the pouch 403 to receive the pawpaw blend after the blend is heated. Once the blend exits the pouch 403 through the outlet section, it is directed into the container 501 for further processing or storage. The connection between the outlet section and the container 501 ensures smooth and controlled transfer of the blend, preventing any spillage or contamination during the transition.
[0049] The container 501 is equipped with a plurality of boxes 502, each storing a second set of ingredients include but not limited to lemon, chia seeds, pawpaw pulp. Each box 502 is connected to a dedicated valve 503 that is controlled by the microcontroller. The microcontroller selectively activates the valve 503 to dispense the ingredients from the boxes 502 into the pawpaw blend within the container 501. This process ensures that the appropriate amount of each ingredient is added to the blend at the correct time, based on preset or user-defined parameters.
[0050] The touch interactive display panel 211 disclosed above facilitates users with the ability to select one or more ingredients from the second set. Through the display panel 211, users interactively choose the desired ingredients to be added to the pawpaw blend. The panel 211 allows for intuitive control and customization, enabling precise selection based on preferences or specific recipe requirements. Once the user makes the selection, the microcontroller processes the input and activates the corresponding valve 503 to dispense the chosen ingredients into the blend, ensuring accurate ingredient addition and customization.
[0051] The microcontroller retrieves the user’s input from the touch interactive display panel 211, where the user selects one or more ingredients to be added to the pawpaw blend. Based on this input, the microcontroller processes the selection and activates the corresponding valve 503 connected to the ingredient reservoirs 303. The activation of the valve 503 is done in such a way that the selected ingredients are dispensed into the pawpaw blend in the required quantities. This process ensures that the blend is customized according to the user’s preferences, while maintaining accuracy and consistency in ingredient addition.
[0052] In an embodiment of the present invention, a motorized stirrer 508 is installed within the container 501 to mix the second set of ingredients and blend of pawpaw. The microcontroller sends a signal to the motor controlling the motorized stirrer 508. Upon receiving the signal, the motor activates, causing the stirrer 508 to rotate within the container 501. The stirrer 508 moves in a circular motion, mixing the second set of ingredients with the pawpaw blend. The microcontroller regulates the speed and direction of the motor, ensuring uniform mixing of the ingredients. The motorized stirrer 508 ensures that all ingredients are thoroughly blended, without clumping or separation. Once the required consistency is achieved, the microcontroller halts the motor, stopping the stirrer 508 rotation.
[0053] The container 501 is equipped with a testing tank 504 that incorporates a heating element 505, an imaging unit 506, and a motorized rotatable spatula 507, all of which are controlled by the microcontroller. The heating element 505 is used to maintain or adjust the temperature of the pawpaw blend to a desired level. The imaging unit 506 captures real-time images of the blend's surface, which are analyzed to detect any visual changes or irregularities, such as wrinkles. The motorized rotatable spatula 507 moves through the blend, assisting in uniform testing. The microcontroller processes the data from the imaging unit 506 and spatula 507 to perform a wrinkle test, ensuring the blend meets quality standards before further processing.
[0054] For performing wrinkle test the mixture is transferred from the container 501 to the testing tank 504 via a pump. The pump is activated by the microcontroller, which regulates the flow rate to ensure a controlled and consistent transfer of the mixture. The pump draws the blended mixture from the container 501 and directs it through the designated conduit into the testing tank 504. The transfer is executed in a precise manner, ensuring the appropriate volume of the mixture is dispensed for testing. The microcontroller continuously monitors the process to ensure the correct amount is dispensed, and upon completion, the pump is deactivated to halt the flow of the mixture into the testing tank 504.
[0055] The microcontroller first activates the heating element 505 to regulate the temperature of the pawpaw blend within the testing tank 504. Upon activation, the heating element 505 begins to transfer heat to the blend. The heating element 505 temperature is continuously monitored through built-in temperature sensors. The microcontroller receives data from these sensors to adjust the heating process, ensuring the blend reaches the required target temperature. Once the desired temperature is achieved, the microcontroller maintains this setting, preventing overheating. The heating element 505 ensures the pawpaw blend is at the ideal temperature, which is crucial for the wrinkle test. After achieving the proper temperature, the heating element 505 continues to maintain or adjust the blend's temperature until the next step in the testing process begins, ensuring that the blend remains consistent and ready for further analysis.
[0056] Once the pawpaw blend reaches the required temperature, the microcontroller activates the imaging unit 506. The imaging unit 506 captures high-resolution visual data of the surface of the pawpaw blend and sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the visual data and analyzes the images for any changes or wrinkles on the surface. The imaging unit 506 helps detect any irregularities, such as wrinkles, which are essential for assessing the quality of the pawpaw blend. The images are stored for comparison, and the system uses pre-programmed protocols to identify specific characteristics that may indicate quality issues. Once the imaging unit 506 completes its analysis, it sends the processed data back to the microcontroller, which uses the information to decide if the blend meets the required standards for further processing or packaging. The imaging unit 506 operates in real-time to support continuous monitoring.
[0057] Simultaneously, the microcontroller proceeds to activate the motorized rotatable spatula 507 to stir the pawpaw blend in the testing tank 504. Upon activation, the microcontroller powers the motor that drives the spatula 507, initiating its rotation inside the testing tank 504. The motor spins the spatula 507 at a set speed and direction, as instructed by the microcontroller. The spatula 507 rotates continuously, ensuring the uniform mixing of the pawpaw blend by circulating the mixture inside the tank 504. The speed and direction of rotation are adjusted by the microcontroller based on the blend’s consistency requirements. As the spatula 507 rotates, the spatula 507 moves through the blend, ensuring that all areas are adequately stirred. Once the blending reaches the required consistency, the microcontroller sends a signal to stop the motor, ceasing the spatula 507 movement. This completes the blending process, and the mixture is prepared for the subsequent heating or testing procedures.
[0058] Further the imaging unit 506 mentioned above capture images of the blended pawpaw and compare these images with a pre-stored database containing reference images or quality parameters. This comparison allows the microcontroller to analyze the characteristics of the blend, such as texture, colour, and consistency. Based on the comparison, the microcontroller evaluates whether the blend meets the desired standards. The results of this analysis are then displayed on the display panel 211, providing immediate feedback regarding the quality of the pawpaw blend.
[0059] In an embodiment of the present invention, the testing tank 504 ensures that the jam's consistency meets the predefined standards prior to packaging. The testing tank 504 is a cuboidal housing, which includes an iris hole through which the jam is dispensed. A hollow conduit connects the container 501 to the testing tank 504, facilitating the transfer of a sample of the jam for testing. The wrinkle tests are performed, to evaluates the jam's ability to form a wrinkle-like texture when cooled. This test is crucial as the formation of wrinkles serves as an indicator of the jam's consistency and thickness, ensuring that it meets the required quality specifications. The microcontroller governs the process, ensuring that the jam is accurately sampled and dispensed into the testing compartment for evaluation.
[0060] The heating element 505 installed in the testing tank 504 is specifically designed to cool the jam sample rapidly, simulating the effect of refrigeration. This cooling process is essential for the wrinkle test, as it allows for the assessment of the jam's texture and consistency at lower temperatures, mimicking the conditions it would experience once stored in a refrigerator. Upon reaching the desired temperature in the testing tank 504, a small sample of the jam is dispensed into the tank 504. A spoon, mounted via a motorized ball and socket joint inside the tank 504, is aligned with the iris hole to hold the jam sample in place during the wrinkle test.
[0061] After dispensing the pawpaw based jam, the spoon is placed in a freezer for approximately one minute to simulate refrigeration. Following this, the spoon is tilted to observe the jam's behavior. If the jam wrinkles, it confirms the appropriate consistency and texture, ensuring that the jam will maintain its quality when stored in cold conditions. Once the jam achieves the desired consistency, the jam is ready to be dispensed for storage or further processing. The outlet pipe, connected to the mixing compartment, plays a crucial role in controlling the flow of the jam. At the end of the outlet pipe, an iris hole is installed, which regulates the amount of jam dispensed. The iris hole opens and closes, controlling the flow and ensuring that the jam is dispensed in controlled portions. This arrangement ensures that the proper quantity of jam is delivered for packaging or storage, minimizing waste and optimizing efficiency in the production process.
[0062] Moreover, a generator is associated with the system to power the electrical and electronically operated components, supplying the necessary voltage to these components. The generator works by converting mechanical energy, usually from an external fuel source, into electrical energy. This electrical power is then distributed to the components of the system, ensuring continuous operation. Given the size and power demands of such machines, the generator provides a steady and reliable power supply, eliminating the need for battery-based energy storage.
[0063] The present invention works in the best manner, where the assembly line 100, installed with the plurality of sections arranged in the series. The sections including one or more pre-processing sections 101, blending section 102, heating section 103 and testing section 104. Each of the section includes the motorized robotic link 210 that is controlled by the motor driver to transfer the pawpaw in between the sections. The first platform 201 arranged with the overhead motorized gripper 202 and lateral peeler 203 that grip, rotate and peel the pawpaw. The lateral peeler 203 is installed over the motorized slider 205 to provide the linear movement to the peeler 203. The second platform 204, embodied with the cutting unit and the suction unit to cut and extract inedible portions of the pawpaw. And the cutting unit consist of the blade 206 installed on the multi-directional lead screw 207 and the suction unit consist of the flexible pipe, the robotic arm 208 and the vacuum unit 209. The robotic arm 208 is integrated with the three-finger gripper as the end effector to grip and position the end portion of the flexible pipe at multiple sections of the pawpaw to extract the inedible portions. Thereafter the chamber 301 with the set of motorized blades 302 blends the pawpaw received from the pre-processing sections 101. The set of reservoirs 303 stored with the first set of ingredients Each reservoir 303 having the dedicated nozzle 304 that dispense the ingredients within the chamber 301. The hollow vessel 401 installed within the heating section 103 and constructed with the plurality of Peltier units 402 to heat liquid stored within the vessel 401.
[0064] In continuation, the replaceable pouch 403 is partially dipped within the liquid. The pouch 403 is having the inlet section to ingress the blend of pawpaw and the outlet section to egress the blend of pawpaw post heating. Each of the inlet and outlet sections are installed with the iris lid operated by the microcontroller based on the output of the integrated level sensor and temperature sensor that detects level and temperature of the blend of pawpaw within the pouch 403. The container 501 is connected with the outlet section to receive the blend of pawpaw. Further the container 501 is comprising the plurality of boxes 502 stored with the second set of ingredients. Each boxes 502 is having the dedicated valve 503 to dispense the second set of ingredients within the blend of pawpaw. The touch interactive display panel 211 provides the option of selecting one or more of the second set of ingredients. Furthermore, the testing tank 504, inbuilt with the heating element 505, the imaging unit 506 and the motorized rotatable spatula 507, are operated by the microcontroller to perform the wrinkle test over the blend of pawpaw.
[0065] 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 pawpaw based jam preparation system, comprising:
i) an assembly line 100, is installed with a plurality of sections arranged in a series, said sections is including one or more pre-processing sections 101, blending section 102, heating section 103 and testing section 104;
ii) a first platform 201 with an overhead motorized gripper 202 and lateral peeler 203 are installed within said pre-processing sections 101 to grip, rotate and peel a pawpaw;
iii) a second platform 204, is configured with said pre-processing sections 101, embodied with a cutting unit and a suction unit to cut and extract inedible portions of the pawpaw;
iv) a chamber 301 with a set of motorized blades 302 is installed within said blending section 102 that are controlled via a microcontroller to blend the pawpaw received from said pre-processing sections 101;
v) a set of reservoirs 303 are stored with a first set of ingredients, each reservoir 303 having a dedicated nozzle 304 connected with said reservoir 303, wherein said nozzle 304 is activated by said microcontroller to dispense the ingredients within said chamber 301;
vi) a hollow vessel 401 is installed within the heating section 103 and constructed with a plurality of Peltier units 402 integrated within the surfaces of the vessel 401, said Peltier units 402 configured to heat liquid stored within said vessel 401;
vii) a replaceable pouch 403 is installed within the vessel 401 and partially dipped within said liquid, said pouch 403 having an inlet section to ingress a blend of pawpaw and an outlet section to egress the blend of pawpaw post heating;
viii) a container 501 is connected with said outlet section to receive the blend of pawpaw, said container 501 is comprising of:
a plurality of boxes 502 stored with a second set of ingredients, each having a dedicated valve 503 which is selectively operated by said microcontroller to dispense the second set of ingredients within the blend of pawpaw; and
a testing tank 504, inbuilt with a heating element 505, an imaging unit 506 and a motorized rotatable spatula 507, which is operated by said microcontroller to perform a wrinkle test over the blend of pawpaw.
2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said lateral peeler 203 is installed over a motorized slider 205 to provide a linear movement to said peeler 203.
3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cutting unit consist of a blade 206 installed on a multi-directional lead screw 207 and said suction unit consist of a flexible pipe, a robotic arm 208 and a vacuum unit 209.
4) The system as claimed in claim 3, wherein said robotic arm 208 is integrated with a three finger gripper as an end effector to grip and position an end portion of said flexible pipe at multiple sections of the pawpaw to extract the inedible portions.
5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the section includes a motorized robotic link 210 that is controlled by a motor driver to transfer the pawpaw in between said sections.
6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first set of ingredients including but not limited to encapsulated probiotics and said second set of ingredients include but not limited to lemon, chia seeds, pawpaw pulp.
7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a touch interactive display panel 211 is installed within the assembly line 100 that provides an option of selecting one or more of said second set of ingredients.
8) The system as claimed in claim 7, wherein said microcontroller fetches the user’s input from said display panel 211 and correspondingly activates the valve 503.
9) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of said inlet and outlet sections are installed with an iris lid operated by said microcontroller based on an output of an integrated level and temperature sensor that detects level and temperature of the blend of pawpaw within said pouch 403.
10) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 506 compares the images of the blend of pawpaw with a pre-stored database to check and provide result over said display panel 211.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521040534-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 2 | 202521040534-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 3 | 202521040534-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 4 | 202521040534-PROOF OF RIGHT [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 5 | 202521040534-POWER OF AUTHORITY [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 6 | 202521040534-FORM-9 [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 7 | 202521040534-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 8 | 202521040534-FORM 18 [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 9 | 202521040534-FORM 1 [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 10 | 202521040534-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 11 | 202521040534-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 12 | 202521040534-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 13 | 202521040534-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 14 | 202521040534-DRAWINGS [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 15 | 202521040534-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 16 | 202521040534-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [26-04-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-04-26 |
| 17 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-05-14 |
| 18 | 202521040534-FORM-26 [03-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-03 |