Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an ice dish preparation device that is capable of automatically preparing ice dishes by crushing precise quantities of ice based on user selection with reduced manual labour, enhanced efficiency, ensured hygiene.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Ice dishes, such as ice creams, kulfis, and chilled desserts, are popular especially in hot climates because they provide instant relief from heat and refresh the body. Preparing these dishes is essential to offer a variety of cooling treats that help maintain hydration and balance body temperature. These desserts also play a cultural and social role, often being a part of celebrations and gatherings. The preparation of ice dishes requires careful attention to hygiene, texture, and flavor to ensure a delicious and safe product. Additionally, making ice-based dishes allows for creativity with ingredients like fruits, nuts, and syrups, enhancing both nutrition and taste. With the growing demand for healthy and natural ingredients, preparing ice dishes with fresh components satisfies consumers seeking tasty yet wholesome options.

[0003] Traditional methods of preparing ice dishes often rely on manual freezing using natural ice blocks or simple ice pits. In many regions, ice was stored in insulated containers or underground pits to keep ingredients cold, while stirring and freezing were done by hand, sometimes using ice and salt mixtures to lower temperatures. These methods, though effective, have several drawbacks. They are time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring constant attention to ensure proper texture and consistency. The lack of precise temperature control often leads to uneven freezing or ice crystal formation, which affects the smoothness and quality of the final dish. Additionally, reliance on natural ice can pose hygiene risks due to contamination. Seasonal availability of ice and the effort needed to maintain cold conditions also limit production capacity.

[0004] CN114857814A relates to an ice preparation device which comprises an ice making box with the top being open and an ice pushing mechanism used for pushing out ice blocks in the ice making box, based on the specific structure of the ice preparation device, in the ice making process, liquid water in the ice making box is gradually solidified from top to bottom, and the ice blocks in the ice making box are gradually solidified from top to bottom; therefore, air released from the liquid water can be gradually collected towards the bottom of the containing cavity and cannot be wrapped by the ice blocks, and the ice blocks with high transparency can be obtained by discharging the ice blocks before the liquid water in the ice making box is completely solidified.

[0005] CN117760138A relates to a crisp ice preparation device and method wherein the crisp ice preparation device comprises: a housing in which a closed accommodating cavity can be formed; the shaping pipe is vertically installed in the containing cavity, an ice making cavity is defined by the shaping pipe and the bottom of the shell, and water can be injected into the ice making cavity; the gas injection channel is arranged in the shell wall of the shell and can be communicated with the bottom of the ice-making cavity; in the ice making process, the containing cavity is in a closed state, and the gas injection channel can continuously inject pressurized gas into the ice making cavity. The artificial preparation of the crisp ice can be conveniently realized.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market that helps the user in preparation of ice dishes. However, the devices mentioned in the prior arts are lacks in crushing specific quantities of ice based on the user’s selection, thereby ensuring portion control and customization. In addition, these existing devices are incapable of accurately dispensing ingredients onto the ice dish, thereby ensuring consistent taste and precise portioning.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of of crushing specific quantities of ice based on the user’s selection, thereby ensuring portion control and customization. In addition, the developed device also needs to be capable of accurate dispensing of the ingredients onto the ice dish, in view of ensuring consistent taste, precise portioning, and minimizing human error in the preparation process.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

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

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of automatically preparing ice dish, thereby reducing manual labor, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring improved hygiene and safety during the preparation process.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of crushing specific quantities of ice based on the user’s selection, thereby ensuring portion control, customization, and reducing wastage during ice dish preparation.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is that is to develop a device that is capable of accurately dispensing ingredients onto the ice dish, thereby ensuring consistent taste, precise portioning, and minimizing human error in the preparation process.

[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 ice dish preparation device capable of crushing precise quantities of ice and accurately dispensing ingredients based on user selection, thereby ensuring portion control, consistent taste, reduced wastage, and minimized human error in ice dish preparation.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an ice dish preparation device, comprises of a housing installed with plurality of storage chamber located at an upper corner of the housing to store multiple types of utensils, a touch interactive display panel is provided with the housing to provide input commands regarding preparation of an ice dish, a first motorized vertical slider installed inside housing with a clamping unit mounted for griping a user-specified type of utensil and position the utensil over a conveyor belt positioned on a base surface of the housing, an ice storage container positioned at an upper corner of the housing for storing ice bricks, a Peltier unit coupled with a temperature sensor is embedded with the container to maintain an optimal temperature level inside the container, a robotic arm is mounted on the ice storage container to position ice brick onto a circular plate installed on a second motorized vertical slider mounted on a housing wall, a motorized flap is integrated with the circular plate and operatively connected to a cutting blade to regulate exposure of the ice brick to the cutting blade so as to crush precise quantities of ice according to a user’s selection, a conical-shaped collector is attached beneath the circular plate to collect crushed ice pieces falling from the cutting operation, a hydraulic pusher mounted on the upper housing wall including a motorized disk for slicing ice bricks, a pneumatic pin for securely holding ice during cutting, and integrated pressure and RPM (Revolution sensors for regulating applied force and rotation speed respectively to ensure consistent and safe ice crushing, a motorized iris valve positioned at the bottom of the conical collector to open only upon collection of the required amount of crushed ice and transfer the crushed ice over the utensil, a proximity sensor integrated with the iris valve to detect and confirm the proper alignment of the glass or plate positioned on the conveyor belt to dispense the crushed ice only when proper alignment is confirmed.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of a horizontal sliding unit inside the housing, carrying a hollow cylindrical segmented member connected to an expandable pulley arrangement for size adjustment based on selected utensil dimensions for receiving crushed ice from the conical collector, a third motorized circular slider mounted around the upper edge of the segmented member attached to a pusher panel via a hinge joint to move along the circular track pressing ice from multiple sides to compact and shape the ice uniformly according to the chosen container type, a conical-shaped storage unit located on the upper surface of the housing for storing bamboo sticks having a motorized iris hole to dispense one stick at a time, a weight sensor is integrated with the storage unit to monitor stick quantity and automatically send’s alert notification on a computing unit accessed by an authorized personnel for replenishment, a motorized two axis slider is positioned on the back wall of the housing and attached with a clamper unit to insert sticks securely into the center of the shaped ice dish before compaction, multiple vessel stored with various flavors and toppings are installed inside the housing for sequential dispensing of selected ingredients through an expandable hollow tube integrated with the vessels that to dispense ingredients accurately onto the ice dish positioned below, a sliding door is mounted on a side wall of the housing, configured to remain closed during preparation to maintain hygiene and safety and automatically open upon completion of dish preparation allowing the user to retrieve the dish and a battery is associated with the device for supplying power to 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 ice dish preparation 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 ice dish preparation device that is capable of automatically preparing ice dishes and accurately dispensing ingredients with reduced manual labour, enhanced efficiency, ensured hygiene and safety, and delivering consistent taste with precise portioning.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an ice dish preparation device is illustrated, comprises of a housing 101 installed with plurality of storage chamber 102 located at an upper corner of the housing 101, a touch interactive display panel 103 is provided with the housing 101, a first motorized vertical slider 104 installed inside housing 101 with a clamping unit 105, a conveyor belt 106 positioned on a base surface of the housing 101, an ice storage container 107 positioned at an upper corner of the housing 101, a robotic arm 108 is mounted on the ice storage container 107, a circular plate 109 installed on a second motorized vertical slider 110 mounted on the housing 101 wall, a motorized flap 111 is integrated with the circular plate 109 and connected to a cutting blade 112, a conical-shaped collector 113 is attached beneath the circular plate 109.

[0023] Figure 1 further illustrates a hydraulic pusher 114 mounted on the upper housing 101 wall including a motorized disk 115 and a pneumatic pin 116, a motorized iris valve 117 positioned at the bottom of the conical collector 113, a horizontal sliding unit 118 inside the housing 101 carrying a hollow cylindrical segmented member 119, a third motorized circular slider 120 mounted around the upper edge of the segmented member 119 attached to a pusher panel 121, a conical-shaped storage unit 122 located on the upper surface having a motorized iris hole 123, a motorized two axis slider 124 is positioned on the back wall of the housing 101 and attached with a clamper unit 125, multiple vessel 126 installed inside the housing 101, an expandable hollow tube 127 integrated with the vessels 126 and a sliding door 128 is mounted on a side wall of the housing 101.

[0024] The device discloses herein includes a housing 101 installed with plurality of storage chamber 102 located at an upper corner of the housing 101 to store multiple types of utensils. The housing 101 made from food-grade stainless steel or high-quality ABS plastic, ensuring durability, corrosion resistance, and compliance with hygiene standards. The chamber 102 is constructed from BPA-free, food-safe plastic to ensure easy cleaning and long-term usability. The storage chamber 102 enhance operational efficiency by organizing utensils, reducing manual handling, and minimizing the risk of cross-contamination.

[0025] The user via a touch interactive display panel 103 provided with the housing 101, provide input command regarding preparation of an ice dish. The display panel 103 allows the user to select preparation of an ice dish settings. The touch interactive display panel 103 as mentioned herein is typically an (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form.

[0026] 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 preparation of an ice dish. The touch controller is typically connected to an inbuilt microcontroller linked with the panel through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit). The microcontroller processes user commands and actuates the required components for preparation of an ice dish.

[0027] Upon receiving the user’s commands, a microcontroller actuates a first motorized vertical slider 104 installed inside housing 101 with a clamping unit 105 for gripping a user-specified type of utensil and position the utensil over a conveyor belt 106 positioned on a base surface of the housing 101. The motorized vertical slider 104 operates as a linear actuator arrangement. When the microcontroller receives commands, it sends signals to the motor that drives the slider. This motor is coupled to a lead screw, belt, or rack-and-pinion arrangement aligned vertically inside the housing 101. As the motor rotates, the mechanical arrangement converts this rotational motion into precise linear movement, causing the vertical slider 104 to travel along a fixed vertical guide rail or track. The clamping unit 105, rigidly attached to the slider carriage, thus moves vertically with high accuracy and repeatability, allowing it to position itself at the desired height for engaging the utensil.

[0028] The clamping unit 105 comprises two or more opposing jaws or fingers, which is made from materials with good grip, such as rubber-coated metal or polymer pads, to avoid slipping or damaging the utensil. These jaws are mounted on a frame connected to the vertical slider 104 carriage and are actuated either by a small dedicated actuator (such as a servo motor or solenoid) or a mechanical linkage controlled by the vertical slider 104 motion. When commanded to grip, the actuator causes the jaws to move towards each other, creating a clamping force that holds the utensil firmly in place and position the utensil over the conveyor belt 106.

[0029] The conveyor belt 106 consists of a flexible looped belt made from durable, low-friction material such as rubber or reinforced fabric, which runs over a series of rollers or pulleys powered by an electric motor. The motor drives the belt in a controlled, linear motion along the length of the housing 101, allowing precise positioning and smooth transfer of the utensil to a designated location. The conveyor belt 106 speed and direction is regulated by the microcontroller to synchronize with the movements of the vertical slider 104 and clamping unit 105, ensuring seamless handoff and preventing misalignment or dropping of the utensil. Additionally, the belt surface includes textured patterns or grips to securely hold the utensil in place during transport, minimizing slipping or unwanted movement caused by acceleration or vibration.

[0030] For storing ice bricks, an ice storage container 107 positioned at an upper corner of the housing 101. The container 107 constructed from durable materials such as stainless steel or food-grade plastic with thermal insulation lining, the container 107 securely holds multiple ice bricks in a compact space without leakage. A Peltier unit coupled with a temperature sensor is embedded with the container 107 to maintain an optimal temperature level inside the container 107.

[0031] The Peltier unit operates based on the Peltier effect, where applying an electric current causes heat to be transferred from one side of the device to the other, creating a temperature difference. One side of the Peltier unit becomes cold, absorbing heat from inside the container 107, while the opposite side dissipates that heat externally.

[0032] To ensure precise temperature control, the temperature sensor continuously monitor the internal temperature. This sensor provides real-time feedback by measuring the actual temperature inside the container 107 and sending this data to the microcontroller.

[0033] The microcontroller compares the measured temperature against a predefined optimal temperature set point. If the temperature deviates rising above or falling below the desired range the microcontroller adjusts the electrical current supplied to the Peltier unit accordingly. For example, if the container 107 becomes too warm, the microcontroller increases current to the Peltier unit, activating the cooling side to lower the temperature. Conversely, if the temperature drops too low, the current direction can be reversed (in some designs) or reduced to allow warming.

[0034] To position ice brick onto a circular plate 109 installed on a second motorized vertical slider 110 mounted on a housing 101 wall, a robotic arm 108 is mounted on the ice storage container 107. The robotic arm 108 used herein mainly comprises of motor controllers, arm 108, end effector and sensors.

[0035] The arm 108 comprises of three parts, the shoulder, elbow and wrist. All these components are connected through joints, with the shoulder resting at the base of the arm 108, typically connected to the microcontroller. The elbow is in the middle and allows the upper section of the arm 108 to move forward or backward independently of the lower section. Finally, the wrist is at the very end of the upper arm and attached to the end effector which act as a robotic finger for gripping ice brick and positioning it onto the circular plate 109. The plate 109 is made from cold-resistant material to securely hold the ice brick, the plate 109 supports the brick during subsequent handling or processing.

[0036] Further, a motorized flap 111 is integrated with the circular plate 109 and operatively connected to a cutting blade 112, the flap 111 controllable to regulate exposure of the ice brick to the cutting blade 112 so as to crush precise quantities of ice according to a user’s selection. The flap 111 integrated with the circular plate 109 comprises a movable metal or plastic plate 109 connected to a precision motor such as a stepper or servo motor, which allows accurate positioning. This flap 111 is operatively linked to the cutting blade 112 assembly and is designed to regulate how much of the ice brick is exposed to the blade 112. When a user selects the desired quantity of ice to be crushed, the microcontroller commands the motor to adjust the flap 111 position, partially covering or uncovering the ice brick. By controlling the flap 111 angle or position, it precisely limits the exposed surface area of the ice, ensuring that only the required amount is available for crushing.

[0037] The cutting blade 112, usually made of sharp stainless steel or another durable metal, is fixed or mounted on a rotating shaft driven by its own motor. The blade 112 has a smooth or serrated edge to efficiently shave or cut the ice. As the blade 112 rotates or moves, it comes into contact only with the ice exposed by the flap 111, slicing or shaving the ice into smaller pieces or flakes. The flap 111 and blade 112 work together in a coordinated manner: the flap 111 controls the volume of ice exposed, while the blade 112 performs the mechanical crushing, enabling the machine to deliver precise quantities of crushed ice consistently and safely.

[0038] To collect crushed ice pieces falling from the cutting operation, a conical-shaped collector 113 is attached beneath the circular plate 109. The cone shape is specifically chosen for its ability to guide falling ice pieces smoothly toward a single point at the bottom, minimizing spillage and ensuring efficient collection. The collector 113 is made from stainless steel due to its strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning, which are essential for maintaining hygiene in ice processing.

[0039] For slicing ice bricks, a hydraulic pusher 114 mounted on the upper housing 101 wall, including a motorized disk 115. The hydraulic pusher 114 uses pressurized fluid to move the pusher with precision and consistent speed, ensuring that the ice bricks are fed uniformly into the cutting area. As the hydraulic pusher 114 advances the ice bricks, the motorized disk 115 equipped with sharp cutting edges rotates at high speed. This disk 115 slices through the ice bricks cleanly and efficiently due to its rapid rotational motion combined with the steady pressure exerted by the hydraulic pusher 114. The continuous interaction between the pusher’s pushing force and the disk 115 cutting action allows for smooth, consistent slicing of the ice bricks into smaller pieces without cracking or uneven breaks.

[0040] The pusher further equipped with a pneumatic pin 116 for securely holding ice during cutting. The pneumatic pin 116 in the pusher is a small, retractable pin 116 operated by compressed air. When activated, the pneumatic arrangement pushes the pin 116 outwards, inserting it firmly into the ice or against a fixed surface, creating a stable grip. This ensures the ice remains stationary while the cutting blade 112 moves, resulting in precise and safe cutting. Once the cutting is complete, the air pressure is released, retracting the pin 116 and allowing the ice to be easily removed or repositioned.

[0041] To ensure consistent and safe ice crushing, pressure and RPM Revolution Per Minute sensors are integrated for regulating applied force and rotation speed respectively. The pressure sensor measures the force being applied during the ice crushing process by detecting the pressure exerted on the crushing arrangement. This sensor converts the mechanical pressure into an electrical signal, which is then sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller uses this data to adjust the applied force, ensuring it remains within safe and optimal limits to prevent damage to the equipment or uneven crushing of the ice. Similarly, RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) sensors monitor the rotation speed of the crushing blade 112 or motor shaft. The RPM sensor work by detecting the number of rotations per minute. This rotational speed data is continuously fed back to the microcontroller, which regulates the motor’s speed to maintain a consistent crushing rate.

[0042] A motorized iris valve 117 positioned at the bottom of the conical collector 113 configured to open only upon collection of the required amount of crushed ice and transfer the crushed ice over the utensil only when proper alignment is detected. The valve 117 comprises a set of overlapping metal or plastic blade 112 arranged in a circular pattern, similar to the aperture arrangement in a camera lens, which can open and close smoothly. The motor drives these blade 112 to open the valve 117 only when the conical collector 113 has accumulated the required amount of crushed ice, preventing premature discharge. Only when the utensil is correctly positioned, the microcontroller activates the motor to open the iris valve 117, allowing the crushed ice to transfer safely and accurately into the utensil.

[0043] A proximity sensor integrated with the iris valve 117 to detect and confirm the proper alignment of the glass or plate 109 positioned on the conveyor belt 106 below. The sensor emits a signal (such as an electromagnetic field in inductive sensors, or light pulses in optical sensors) towards the detection zone. When the glass or plate 109 enters this zone, the emitted signal reflects back or alters the field, allowing the sensor to detect the object's presence.

[0044] To confirm proper alignment, the sensor’s detection zone is designed to correspond exactly to the ideal placement area of the glass or plate 109. For example, if the sensor is an array of multiple sensing points or a single sensor with a defined narrow detection field, it can confirm that the glass is not only present but also within precise spatial limits centered and not tilted or offset. If the object deviates from this alignment, the sensor either does not detect the object or detects it out of the predefined range.

[0045] Once the sensor confirms that the glass or plate 109 is properly aligned and within the correct position on the conveyor belt 106, it sends a signal to the microcontroller for the iris valve 117 to open. The valve 117 then dispenses crushed ice accurately into the glass or onto the plate 109.

[0046] Based on selected utensil dimensions, a horizontal sliding unit 118 inside the housing 101, movable laterally, carrying a hollow cylindrical segmented member 119 wrapped with stretchable fabric and connected to an expandable pulley arrangement for size adjustment to receive crushed ice from the conical collector 113. The horizontal sliding unit 118 moves laterally inside the housing 101 through the use of a rack and pinion arrangement, which converts rotational motion into precise linear motion. The rack is a straight, toothed bar fixed along the path of the sliding unit, while the pinion is a small gear attached to a rotary actuator or manual handle on the sliding unit itself. When the pinion gear rotates, its teeth engage with those of the rack, causing the sliding unit to move smoothly along the guide rails in a horizontal direction. This arrangement allows for accurate and controllable lateral positioning, with the distance moved proportional to the rotation angle of the pinion. The rack and pinion setup provides both high stability and repeatability, ensuring the hollow cylindrical segmented member 119 can be precisely aligned to accommodate various utensil dimensions and effectively receive crushed ice from the conical collector 113.

[0047] The stretchable fabric coating on the member 119 enhances the grip and containment of the crushed ice, preventing spillage while allowing smooth transfer. The expandable pulley arrangement functions by dynamically altering the tension and effective diameter of the hollow cylindrical. This arrangement consists of multiple pulleys mounted on adjustable arms or sliding brackets, allowing the pulley positions to move radially outward or inward. When the pulleys expand outward, they increase the circumference of the fabric wrap by pulling the stretchable material taut over a larger diameter, effectively enlarging the hollow cylindrical member 119 to accommodate a greater volume of crushed ice. Conversely, when the pulleys contract inward, the fabric loosens slightly, reducing the diameter for smaller volumes. This ensures a secure and adaptable interface between the conical ice collector 113 and the cylindrical member 119, allowing to efficiently receive and contain crushed ice of varying quantities without spillage or loss.

[0048] To compact and shape the ice uniformly according to the chosen container type, a third motorized circular slider 120 mounted around the upper edge of the segmented member 119, attached to a pusher panel 121 via a hinge joint, the pusher panel 121 operable to move along the circular track pressing ice from multiple sides. The circular slider 120 operates by moving smoothly along a fixed circular track that is mounted around the upper edge of the segmented member 119. This track guides the slider’s rotational movement, ensuring precise and controlled travel around the circumference. The slider 120 is motorized, typically driven by a small geared motor connected to a pinion gear that engages with a circular rack or toothed track, converting the motor’s rotational output into consistent circular motion. As the motor rotates, the slider 120 travels along the track in a continuous or incremental manner, allowing pusher panel 121 to apply pressure evenly around the ice.

[0049] The hinge joint provides the necessary flexibility for the pusher panel 121 to maintain optimal contact with the ice surface, even when the ice shape varies or when the panel 121 encounters uneven resistance. As the circular slider 120 rotates, the pusher panel 121 presses against the ice, and the hinge joint enables the panel 121 to adjust its angle dynamically, ensuring uniform pressure distribution across the ice mass. The hinge joint also absorbs minor mechanical stresses, reducing wear and improving the durability while enabling smooth, controlled motion of the pusher panel 121 for effective shaping and compacting of the ice according to the chosen container type.

[0050] Further, a conical-shaped storage unit 122 located on the upper surface of the housing 101 for storing bamboo sticks, the storage unit 122 having a motorized iris hole 123 to dispense one stick at a time. The storage unit 122 constructed from durable, food-grade materials such as stainless steel or high-strength plastic, the storage unit 122 ensures hygiene, corrosion resistance, and structural integrity while accommodating a large number of sticks. At the base of the cone, the motorized iris hole 123 arrangement controls the precise dispensing of bamboo sticks, releasing one stick at a time. The iris hole 123 consists of a series of overlapping, curved blades arranged in a circular pattern, which open and close similarly to a camera aperture. Driven by a small electric motor connected to a geared arrangement, the blades rotate and slide inward or outward to adjust the opening size. When closed, the iris hole 123 prevents multiple sticks from falling out simultaneously, and when opened just enough, it allows a single stick to pass through.

[0051] A weight sensor is integrated with the storage unit 122 to monitor stick quantity. The weight sensor works by converting the mechanical force exerted by the sticks resting on it into an electrical signal. As sticks are added or removed from the storage unit 122, the total weight changes, and the sensor detects these variations precisely. Inside the storage unit 122, the sticks are placed directly or indirectly on the weight sensor platform. When the storage is fully stocked, the sensor records a baseline weight corresponding to the full quantity of sticks. As sticks are dispensed or used, the weight decreases proportionally to the number of sticks removed. The sensor outputs an electrical signal typically a voltage that is directly related to the measured weight.

[0052] This continuous weight measurement is sent to the microcontroller, which interprets the data to calculate the current quantity of sticks remaining based on known individual stick weight. When the weight falls below a predefined threshold indicating that the stick quantity is low and approaching depletion the microcontroller automatically send’s alert notification on a computing unit accessed by an authorized personnel for replenishment. The computing unit mentioned herein includes, but not limited to smartphone, laptop, tablet.

[0053] To insert sticks securely into the center of the shaped ice dish before compaction, a motorized two axis slider 124 is positioned on the back wall of the housing 101 and attached with a clamper unit 125. The motorized two-axis slider 124 is allowing precise movement of the attached clamper unit 125 along both horizontal (X-axis) and vertical (Y-axis) directions. This dual-axis mobility enables the clamps to position itself accurately over the center of the shaped ice dish before compaction. Controlled by stepper motors or servo motors, the slider 124 arrangement uses linear guide rails and lead screws or belt drives to achieve smooth, repeatable motion with fine positional accuracy.

[0054] Once in position, the clamper unit 125 typically employs a spring-loaded or pneumatic gripping arrangement that gently but firmly grips a bamboo stick, ensuring it remains stable during insertion. As the slider 124 moves the clamper unit 125 downward and inward, the stick is precisely inserted into the center of the ice dish, positioning it correctly before the compaction process begins.

[0055] The multiple vessel 126 containing various flavors and toppings are stored inside the housing 101 for sequential dispensing, the ingredients are delivered through an expandable hollow tube 127 integrated with each vessel 126. The tube 127 is designed to precisely direct the flow of ingredients onto the ice dish positioned below, minimizing spillage and ensuring accuracy. The tube 127 expandable feature allows it to adjust its length and diameter slightly, accommodating different vessel 126 configurations and ingredient volumes, while maintaining a sealed path that prevents contamination or mixing of flavors. When an ingredient is selected for dispensing, the microcontroller activates the corresponding vessel 126 and gently pushes the ingredient through the hollow tube 127. The flow is guided precisely to the target spot on the ice dish below.

[0056] To ensure both hygiene and user safety, a sliding door 128 is mounted on the side wall. The sliding door 128 is designed to remain securely closed during the entire preparation process, acting as a physical barrier that prevents contaminants from entering the preparation area. The door 128 is mounted on tracks or rails that allow it to move smoothly horizontally, either manually or through an automated actuator arrangement. When the preparation process begins, the microcontroller signals the door 128 to remain locked in the closed position, ensuring no accidental opening.

[0057] Once the dish preparation is complete, the microcontroller sends a command to the sliding door 128 motor or actuator, triggering it to slide open along its tracks. This opening motion provides easy and safe access for the user to retrieve the freshly prepared dish without having to open a hinged door 128 that might obstruct space or introduce contamination risks. The sliding arrangement includes limit switches that detect the door 128 position, ensuring it fully opens and closes with precision and prevents the door 128 from jamming or moving unexpectedly.

[0058] 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 preferably 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.

[0059] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the housing 101 as disclosed in the invention is constructed from food-grade stainless steel or high-quality ABS plastic, featuring multiple storage chamber 102 made of BPA-free plastic for utensils, enhancing organization and hygiene. The user input is provided via the touch interactive display panel 103 with touch-sensitive LCD technology connected through SPI or I2C interfaces to process commands for ice dish preparation. Upon command, the motorized vertical slider 104 equipped with the clamping unit 105 grips specified utensils and positions them accurately over the conveyor belt 106 made of durable, low-friction material with textured grips for secure transport. Ice bricks stored in the insulated container 107 maintained at optimal temperature by the Peltier unit coupled with the temperature sensor undergo precise handling by the robotic arm 108 for positioning on the circular plate 109 integrated with the motorized flap 111 regulating ice exposure to the cutting blade 112. The crushed ice collects in the conical stainless steel collector 113 and dispenses only when the motorized iris valve 117, controlled by signals from the proximity sensor confirming utensil alignment, opens. The horizontal sliding unit 118 with the hollow cylindrical segmented member 119 wrapped in stretchable fabric adjusted by expandable pulleys for crushed ice transfer. The compacting is achieved by the motorized circular slider 120 with the hinged pusher panel 121 applying uniform pressure. Further, the bamboo sticks are dispensed individually from the conical storage unit 122 with the motorized iris hole 123, monitored by the weight sensor triggering alert notifications upon low stock. The motorized two-axis slider 124 with the clamping unit 105 inserts sticks into shaped ice dishes, while the sliding door 128 mounted on side wall ensures hygiene and safety by remaining closed during preparation and automatically opening post-process for retrieval.

[0060] 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 ice dish preparation device, comprising:

i) a housing 101 installed with plurality of storage chamber 102 located at an upper corner of the housing 101, configured to store multiple types of utensils, wherein a touch interactive display panel 103 is provided with the housing 101 that is accessed by a user to provide input commands regarding preparation of an ice dish;
ii) a first motorized vertical slider 104 installed inside housing 101 with a clamping unit 105 mounted thereon, wherein a microcontroller linked with the display panel 103 upon receiving the user’s commands actuates the first slider 104, clamping unit 105 to work in collaboration for grip a user-specified type of utensil and position the utensil over a conveyor belt 106 positioned on a base surface of the housing 101;
iii) an ice storage container 107 positioned at an upper corner of the housing 101, said container 107 storing ice bricks, wherein a robotic arm 108 is mounted on the ice storage container 107, dynamically actuated by the microcontroller to position ice brick onto a circular plate 109 installed on a second motorized vertical slider 110 mounted on a housing 101 wall;
iv) a motorized flap 111 is integrated with the circular plate 109 and operatively connected to a cutting blade 112, the flap 111 controllable to regulate exposure of the ice brick to the cutting blade 112 so as to crush precise quantities of ice according to a user’s selection, wherein a conical-shaped collector 113 is attached beneath the circular plate 109, configured to collect crushed ice pieces falling from the cutting operation;
v) a hydraulic pusher 114 mounted on the upper housing 101 wall, including a motorized disk 115 for slicing ice bricks, the pusher further equipped with a pneumatic pin 116 for securely holding ice during cutting, and integrated pressure and RPM Revolution Per Minute sensors for regulating applied force and rotation speed respectively to ensure consistent and safe ice crushing;
vi) a motorized iris valve 117 positioned at the bottom of the conical collector 113 configured to open only upon collection of the required amount of crushed ice and transfer the crushed ice over the utensil only when proper alignment is detected;
vii) a horizontal sliding unit 118 inside the housing 101, movable laterally, carrying a hollow cylindrical segmented member 119 wrapped with stretchable fabric and connected to an expandable pulley arrangement for size adjustment based on selected utensil dimensions, said segmented member 119 receiving crushed ice from the conical collector 113;
viii) a third motorized circular slider 120 mounted around the upper edge of the segmented member 119, attached to a pusher panel 121 via a hinge joint, the pusher panel 121 operable to move along the circular track pressing ice from multiple sides to compact and shape the ice uniformly according to the chosen container type; and
ix) a conical-shaped storage unit 122 located on the upper surface of the housing 101 for storing bamboo sticks, said storage unit 122 having a motorized iris hole 123 to dispense one stick at a time, wherein a motorized two axis slider 124 is positioned on the back wall of the housing 101 and attached with a clamper unit 125 configured to insert sticks securely into the center of the shaped ice dish before compaction.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a proximity sensor integrated with the iris valve 117 to detect and confirm the proper alignment of the glass or plate positioned on the conveyor belt 106 below, the iris valve 117 opens to dispense the crushed ice only when proper alignment is confirmed.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a weight sensor is integrated with the storage unit 122 to monitor stick quantity and automatically send’s alert notification on a computing unit accessed by an authorized personnel for replenishment.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein multiple vessel 126 stored with various flavors and toppings are installed inside the housing 101, configured for sequential dispensing of selected ingredients through an expandable hollow tube 127 integrated with the vessel 126 that to dispense ingredients accurately onto the ice dish positioned below.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a sliding door 128 is mounted on a side wall of the housing 101, configured to remain closed during preparation to maintain hygiene and safety, and automatically open upon completion of dish preparation allowing the user to retrieve the dish.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a Peltier unit coupled with a temperature sensor is embedded with the container 107 to maintain an optimal temperature level inside the container 107.