Sign In to Follow Application
View All Documents & Correspondence

Ration Distribution System

Abstract: A ration distribution system, comprises of a kiosk 101 having a platform 102 at its front portion to accommodate a user, a plurality of storage tanks 103 disposed within the kiosk 101 to store grains, a sensing means installed in the tanks 103 to detect moisture content, odour and spoilage of grains, a communication unit to generate alerts upon anomaly detection and fetch user account details from a central database, a plurality of pressure sensors integrated to detect presence of the user, a camera 106 configured for facial recognition to identify the user, a dispensing arrangement including a hopper 107 mounted on slider 108 and integrated with a screw conveyor 109 and a dispensing nozzle 110 to deliver grains, an IR sensor to detect presence of a bag for collection of grains, a user interface for appointment booking and history tracking, and a queue management module to organize grain distribution.

Get Free WhatsApp Updates!
Notices, Deadlines & Correspondence

Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
24 September 2025
Publication Number
41/2025
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

Marwadi University
Rajkot - Morbi Road, Rajkot 360003 Gujarat, India.

Inventors

1. Sachin Kumar Aman
Department of Computer Engineering, Marwadi University, Rajkot - Morbi Road, Rajkot 360003 Gujarat, India.
2. Aswathy R Nair
Department of Computer Engineering, Marwadi University, Rajkot - Morbi Road, Rajkot 360003 Gujarat, India.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a ration distribution system that is capable of automating the grain distribution, ensuring accuracy, enhancing transparency, and providing users with a secured and efficient method of accessing entitlements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The Public Distribution System (PDS) is an essential means implemented in many countries to ensure the equitable distribution of food grains and essential commodities to citizens at subsidized rates. However, existing distribution practices face challenges including inefficiency, lack of transparency, pilferage, and poor monitoring of quality and quantity. Manual intervention at multiple stages often leads to inaccuracies in record-keeping and delays in service, creating dissatisfaction among beneficiaries. Further, current systems do not provide robust means for real-time authentication of users, accurate allocation based on entitlement, or proactive monitoring of grain quality. With increasing reliance on technology for service delivery, there arises a strong need for an automated system that handle user identification, manage queues, monitor grain conditions, and facilitate transparent dispensing of rations, thereby enhancing accountability, reducing leakage, and ensuring efficiency in distribution.

[0003] Traditionally, ration distribution has been carried out manually at fair price shops or distribution counters, where beneficiaries present ration cards to obtain their entitlement. This process is often time-consuming, prone to human error, and susceptible to fraudulent practices such as duplication of cards, unauthorized diversion of grains, and inaccurate measurement. Monitoring the condition of stored grains has also remained a challenge, leading to quality deterioration before reaching end users. In addition, beneficiaries frequently face difficulties due to long queues, lack of proper scheduling, and limited grievance redressal means.

[0004] CN205739382U discloses a kind of automatic ration dispensing device, it is possible to use simple structurally and operationally technique to realize the step-less adjustment of single dose taken amount. Described automatic ration dispensing device includes: demand chamber, has charging aperture and discharging opening, and the receiving chamber connected with described charging aperture and described discharging opening;Haul bar, cylindrical, and its outer peripheral face portion concave, form axially extended quantitative slot;Quantitatively bar, is axially inserted into described quantitative slot, in order to be used for carrying the volume of material, and then regulated quantity value by controlling the insertion described quantitative slot of regulation, described quantitative bar is circumferentially fixed with described haul bar, and combines formation cylinder;Described cylinder circumference is rotatably mounted around described receiving intracavity, to drive described quantitative slot to move to the position corresponding with described charging aperture or described discharging opening. Step-less adjustment can be realized by the insertion of the quantitative bar of step-less adjustment, the most relatively simple, it is easy to accomplish, and it is easily controlled quantitatively, improve quantitative accuracy.

[0005] CN104985753B discloses a kind of automatic ration feed control system, include ratio mixer of weighing, drying machine, weigh charging basket, master control panel, the negative-pressure air duct and dispensing expects pipe being connected for the vacuum hopper with some injection machines, negative-pressure air duct connecting fan, valve is controlled in exhausting is respectively arranged with the negative-pressure air duct for connecting each injection machine, the ratio mixer of weighing is connected by a main feed pipe with drying machine, the drying machine is provided with blowing to the Quantitative dosing valve of charging basket of weighing, the weigh lower end of charging basket is provided with and the foregoing dispensing discharging opening that connects of expects pipe entrance, foregoing Quantitative dosing valve, weigh charging basket and each exhausting control valve connection master control panel, during work, master control panel sets according to each injection machine consumption and record case controls the opening and closing of each exhausting control valve and Quantitative dosing valve. Weigh ratio mixer and drying machine are concentrated use in, focusing on for raw material is realized, operating efficiency is improved, save energy reduces production cost, increased the economic benefit of enterprise.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems for ration distribution have relied on manual processes involving physical verification and allocation, which often results in inefficiencies, delays, and errors, thereby creating scope for malpractice, reducing transparency, and limiting the reliability and accessibility of essential supplies to intended beneficiaries.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to ensure secure user authentication, enable transparent and accurate allocation of resources, minimize human intervention, enhance efficiency, and provide reliable, convenient, and equitable distribution of essential commodities to beneficiaries.

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 facilitates secure and transparent distribution of ration to intended beneficiaries in an efficient manner.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that improves accountability in public distribution while reducing errors, delays, and manual intervention.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that enhances user convenience by providing fair access, accurate allocation, and reliable tracking of ration entitlements.

[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 a ration distribution system that is capable of ensuring equitable distribution of essential grains, enhancing transparency in operations, improving efficiency of service delivery, and providing users with a secure, reliable, and user-friendly means for accessing their entitlement.

[0014] According to an aspect of the present invention, a ration distribution system, comprises of a kiosk provided with a platform at a front portion of the kiosk to accommodate a user, a plurality of storage tanks disposed within the kiosk to store grains, a sensing means installed in each of the tanks to detect moisture content of the grains, odour of the grains and spoilage of the grains, the sensing means comprises a moisture sensor to detect moisture content of the grains, an odour sensor to detect odour of the grains, a vibration sensor to detect vibrations caused by presence of pests and a colour sensor to detect colour of the grains, a motorised ribbon mixer installed in each of the tanks to agitate the grains for a complete inspection by the sensing unit, a communication unit installed with the kiosk to generate an alert for a pre-designated authority upon detection of an anomaly by the sensing unit, a plurality of pressure sensors installed over the platform to detect a presence of the user over the platform, a camera configured for facial recognition, mounted over the kiosk and actuated upon a positive presence detection by the pressure sensors, to identify the user based on captured facial data to enable fetching of assigned ration account from a central database via the communication unit, the camera is synchronised with a 3D depth sensor embedded over the platform for accurate facial recognition.

[0015] According to another aspect of the present invention, the system further comprises of a dispensing arrangement integrated with the kiosk to dispense grains in accordance with fetched account of the user, the dispensing arrangement comprising a hopper mounted over a slider arranged underneath the tanks, inside the kiosk, to receive grains from an outlet of each of the tanks, a screw conveyor integrated with the hopper to guide the received grains towards a dispensing nozzle mounted with an outer surface of the hopper, the dispensing arrangement is further provided with a weight sensor integrated with the hopper to detect a weight of the grain received to control the quantity of grains dispensed via the screw conveyor as per fetched account data, an IR (infrared) sensor embedded in front of the kiosk to detect presence of a bag for collection of grains, to cause the screw conveyor and the nozzle to initiate dispensing of grains, a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit to establish communication with the communication unit to request an appointment for grain collection and track grains collection history, a queue management module configured with a control unit receives appointment requests, instant user availing grain and visual data from the camera regarding a number of people in queue to generate an estimated time for a new appointment along with a ticket number, a projection unit installed with the kiosk to display account details of the identified user.

[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 a ration distribution system.

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 a ration distribution system that is capable of delivering essential food grains to users in a secure, transparent, and efficient manner, ensuring fair allocation, reducing manual intervention, improving accessibility, and maintaining reliability in public distribution through an automated and user-friendly approach.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a ration distribution system is illustrated, comprising a kiosk 101 provided with a platform 102 at a front portion of the kiosk 101, a plurality of storage tanks 103 disposed within the kiosk 101, a motorized ribbon mixer 104 installed in each of the tanks 103, a valve 105 integrated at outlet of the tanks 103, a camera 106 mounted over the kiosk 101, a hopper 107 mounted over a slider 108 arranged underneath the tanks 103, a screw conveyor 109 integrated with the hopper 107, a dispensing nozzle 110 mounted with an outer surface of the hopper 107, a scanning unit 111 installed in the kiosk 101, a projection unit 112 installed with the kiosk 101.

[0023] The system disclosed herein comprises of a kiosk 101 provided with a platform 102 at a front portion of the kiosk 101 to accommodate a user. The kiosk 101 is structured as an enclosed housing fabricated from high-strength stainless steel and reinforced polymer composites to ensure durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning. Its outer body is provided with a smooth finish and weather-resistant coating to enable prolonged outdoor use. The platform 102 is constructed from a non-slip alloy surface integrated with a rigid support frame, capable of withstanding repeated load cycles of users while ensuring safety and stability. Both the kiosk 101 and the platform 102 are ergonomically designed for accessibility.

[0024] A plurality of storage tanks 103 disposed within the kiosk 101 to store grains. The tanks 103 work internally by safely accommodating grains in enclosed chambers designed to preserve their quality over extended periods. Each tank 103 is structured to maintain uniform conditions, preventing external contaminants and minimizing deterioration of stored grains. The tanks 103 function independently, ensuring that different types of grains remain separated and ready for distribution as required. Their design allows consistent holding capacity, controlled storage, and reliable retention of grains, thereby enabling efficient management of ration supplies within the system.

[0025] For initiating functionality of the system, the user manually presses a push-button installed on the kiosk 101. The push button serves as the primary means for turning the system on and off. The push button is typically made from polycarbonate. When push button is pressed to switch on the system it allows current to flow. This sends a signal to system’s control unit, instructing it to activate the system. The control unit then powers up the system, enabling them to function.

[0026] After activation of the system, the control unit activates a sensing means installed in each of the tanks 103 to detect moisture content of the grains, odour of the grains, and spoilage of the grains. The sensing means comprises of a moisture sensor to detect moisture content of the grains, an odour sensor to detect odour of the grains, a vibraion sensor to detect vibrations caused by presence of pests and a color sensor to detect color of the grains.

[0027] The moisture sensor works internally by detecting the dielectric properties of grains, where variations in moisture content alter the electrical capacitance of the sensing element. These changes are converted into electrical signals and transmitted to the control unit. The control unit processes the data to determine accurate moisture levels, enabling timely decisions regarding preservation and dispensing. This integration ensures that grains are maintained in an optimal state, while the system remains responsive to potential risks of spoilage or fungal growth.

[0028] The odour sensor functions internally using a chemical-sensitive film hat interacts with volatile compounds emitted by grains. Upon exposure, variations in resistance are generated and translated into measurable signals. These signals are sent to the control unit, where analytical protocols interpret the odour profile. If irregular or harmful odours are detected, the control unit flags the anomaly, enabling the system to maintain quality standards and prevent distribution of degraded grains to users.

[0029] The vibration sensor operates internally by utilizing a piezoelectric element to capture low-frequency disturbances within stored grains. Movement of pests or biological activity creates mechanical vibrations, which are converted into electrical signals. These signals are relayed to the control unit for processing and comparison against predefined thresholds. If unusual vibrations are detected, the control unit identifies the presence of infestations, prompting corrective action to protect grain quality and ensuring that compromised stock is not released for distribution.

[0030] While, the colour sensor functions internally by directing a calibrated light source onto the grains and measuring the reflected wavelengths through photodetectors. The variations in red, green, and blue intensity are captured and sent as digital signals to the control unit. The control unit evaluates the data against standard colour profiles to detect deviations caused by spoilage or contamination. This process ensures real-time monitoring, where the control unit validates the visual quality of grains before they are dispensed to users.

[0031] Further, a plurality of load cells embedded in each of the tanks 103 to monitor a quantity of grains stored in each of the tanks 103. The load cells work internally by converting the weight of grains stored in each tank 103 into measurable electrical signals. When grains exert force on the load cell, the strain gauge inside deforms proportionally, causing a change in its electrical resistance. This variation is translated into a voltage signal, which is transmitted to the control unit. The control unit interprets the signal to determine the precise grain quantity in real time, enabling accurate monitoring, inventory management, and timely replenishment of the storage tanks 103.

[0032] A temperature sensor embedded in the tank 103 to detect the temperature of the grains. The temperature sensor works internally by detecting thermal variations within the grains through a thermistor. Changes in temperature cause corresponding variations in electrical resistance, which are converted into signals. These signals are transmitted to the control unit, where the actual temperature is calculated and continuously monitored. This enables the control unit to track storage conditions, detect abnormal heating, and maintain grain quality by preventing deterioration caused by unfavourable temperature fluctuations.

[0033] Based on the temperature of the grains, the control unit activates a Peltier unit integrated in each of the tanks 103 to regulates the temperature of the stored grains. The Peltier unit works internally by utilizing the thermoelectric effect, where an electric current is passed through a junction of two different conductive materials. This causes one side of the unit to absorb heat while the opposite side releases it, creating a cooling or heating effect. The control unit regulates the current flow to maintain the required temperature range within the tanks 103. This ensures that the stored grains remain preserved under optimal conditions, preventing spoilage and extending their usable lifespan.

[0034] Further, a motorized ribbon mixer 104 installed in each of the tanks 103 to agitate the grains for a complete inspection by the sensing unit. The motorized ribbon mixer 104 works internally by using helical blades mounted on a rotating shaft, which is driven by a motor upon actuation by the control unit. As the shaft rotates, the ribbons move grains in opposing directions, creating a thorough mixing and gentle agitation effect. This uniform movement exposes different portions of the grains to monitoring sensors, ensuring complete inspection of their quality. The control unit regulates the mixing duration and speed, maintaining grain integrity while enabling accurate quality assessment.

[0035] Upon detection of an anomaly by the sensing unit, the control unit activates a communication unit installed with the kiosk 101 to generate an alert for a pre-designated authority. The communication unit works internally by establishing a secure data link between the kiosk 101 and designated authorities. The communication unit receives inputs from the control unit, encodes the data into digital signals, and transmits them over wired or wireless channels. The communication unit also handles incoming requests, such as fetching user account details or updating system records, and relays the responses back to the control unit. This two-way communication ensures timely alerts, efficient data exchange, and seamless integration of the kiosk 101 with centralized databases.

[0036] A plurality of pressure sensors installed over the platform 102 to detect a presence of the user over the platform 102. The plurality of pressure sensors works internally by detecting variations in force exerted on the platform 102 when the user steps onto the platform 102. Each sensor converts the applied mechanical pressure into proportional electrical signals, which are transmitted to the control unit. The control unit processes these signals to confirm the user’s presence on the platform 102.

[0037] Upon a positive user presence detection by the pressure sensors, the control unit activates a camera 106 mounted over the kiosk 101 for facial recognition and to identify the user based on captured facial data to enable fetching of assigned ration account from a central database via the communication module. The camera 106 works internally by capturing high-resolution images of the user’s face once activated through presence detection. Light reflected from the user’s facial features is converted into digital image data using an image sensor, which is then processed for feature extraction. These processed data points are transmitted to the control unit, where facial recognition protocols compare them against stored templates. The control unit ensures accurate identification and, upon successful verification, authorizes the system to proceed with fetching the user’s ration account.

[0038] The camera 106 is synchronized with a 3D (three dimensional) depth sensor embedded over the platform 102 for accurate facial recognition. The 3D depth sensor works internally by projecting structured infrared light patterns and using time-of-flight measurement to capture depth information of the user’s face. The sensor generates a 3D map, which is aligned with the two-dimensional image captured by the camera 106. Both data streams are transmitted to the control unit, where protocols merge depth and visual details for enhanced accuracy. This synchronization reduces errors from lighting or angle variations, ensuring precise facial recognition and reliable user authentication during ration distribution.

[0039] The central database via the communication module works internally by enabling secure retrieval and update of user information. Upon receiving a request from the control unit, the communication module encodes the user’s identification data and transmits it to the central database server. The server processes the query, verifies user eligibility, and returns account details through the same channel. The control unit receives this information in real time, ensuring that ration allocation aligns with the user’s entitlement and distribution records are accurately maintained.

[0040] A dispensing arrangement integrated with the kiosk 101 to dispense grains in accordance with fetched account of the user. The dispensing arrangement comprising a hopper 107 mounted over a slider 108 arranged underneath the tanks 103 inside the kiosk 101 to receive grains from an outlet of each of the tanks 103. The slider 108 works internally as a movable support positioned beneath the tanks 103 to guide the controlled release of grains. When actuated by the control unit, the slider 108 shifts linearly along its path, aligning the tank 103 outlet with the hopper 107 inlet. This motion enables grains to flow smoothly into the hopper 107 while preventing spillage or mixing of different grain types.

[0041] The outlet of the tank 103 is provided with a valve 105 for a controller flow of grains from the tanks 103 to the hopper 107. The valve 105 operates internally as a flow-regulation means, consisting of a movable gate actuated through electromechanical input from the control unit. Upon receiving a control signal, the actuator precisely adjusts the valve’s aperture to permit calibrated discharge of grains. The modulation of opening angle governs the volumetric flow rate, enabling consistent transfer while minimizing turbulence and blockage. Once the required transfer of the grain completes, the control unit signals the valve 105 to close, maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

[0042] While, the hopper 107 works internally by receiving grains from the storage tanks 103 and channelling them in a controlled manner towards the dispensing stage. Its sloped design ensures smooth flow, prevents clogging, and maintains continuous, efficient transfer of grains for distribution. A screw conveyor 109 integrated with the hopper 107 to guide the received grains towards a dispensing nozzle 110 mounted with an outer surface of the hopper 107.

[0043] The screw conveyor 109 works internally by employing an auger, rotating within a cylindrical casing to transport grains from the hopper 107 towards the dispensing outlet. When actuated by the control unit, the motor drives the auger, causing grains to advance steadily along the spiral path. The rotation speed determines the delivery rate, ensuring controlled and uniform transfer. The screw conveyor 109 minimizes clogging, maintains consistent flow, and enables precise dispensing of grains as per the requirements fetched from the user’s account.

[0044] The dispensing nozzle 110 connected on the outer surface of the hopper 107 works internally as a controlled outlet that directs the flow of grains. Activated by the control unit in synchronization with the screw conveyor 109, the nozzle 110 ensures an accurate and continuous stream without spillage. Its design maintains a steady flow pattern by regulating exit velocity and alignment, preventing scattering or uneven discharge. Once the required ration grain is dispensed, the control unit signals closure, ensuring precision, cleanliness, and efficient completion of the dispensing process.

[0045] To cause the screw conveyor 109 and the nozzle 110 to initiate dispensing of grains, the control unit activates an IR (infrared) sensor embedded in front of the kiosk 101 to detect presence of a bag for collection of grains. The IR sensor works internally by emitting a focused beam of infrared light towards the detection area in front of the kiosk 101. When the bag or container is placed, the emitted light reflects back to the sensor’s photodiode, altering the received signal intensity. This change is converted into electrical signals and sent to the control unit for processing. The control unit interprets the presence of the bag and subsequently triggers the dispensing arrangement, ensuring grains are released only when proper collection is detected.

[0046] The dispensing arrangement is further provided with a weight sensor integrated with the hopper 107 to detect a weight of the grain received to control the quantity of grains dispensed via the screw conveyor 109 as per fetched account data. The weight sensor in the hopper 107 works internally by measuring the force exerted by grains as they accumulate within the hopper 107. Typically using strain gauge technology, the sensor experiences minute deformation proportional to the applied load, resulting in a change in electrical resistance. This variation is converted into voltage signals and transmitted to the control unit. The control unit processes the signals to calculate the precise weight of grains, enabling accurate dispensing control in alignment with the user’s ration entitlement.

[0047] Furthermore, a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit to establish communication with the communication unit to request an appointment for grain collection and track grains collection history. The user interface works internally by providing an interactive medium through which users input requests, view information, and receive system feedback. The user input consists of graphical displays and input modules that capture user actions, such as appointment scheduling or history tracking. These inputs are converted into digital signals and transmitted to the computing unit. The interface also displays outputs received from the computing unit, ensuring clear communication. This two-way exchange enables a user-friendly experience while maintaining accuracy, transparency, and efficiency in ration management.

[0048] The computing unit works internally as the primary processing hub that coordinates data exchange between sensors, communication modules, and the user interface. The computing unit receives raw inputs, executes programmed protocols, and generates actionable outputs for system control. Upon receiving instructions from the user interface via the control unit, the computing unit validates requests, processes account details, and manages system records. The computing unit ensures secure handling of data, accurate synchronization of operations, and seamless integration of user interaction with backend processes, maintaining reliability and overall system efficiency.

[0049] A queue management module configured with the control unit to receive appointment requests, instant user availing grain and visual data from the camera 106 regarding number of people in queue to generate an estimated time for a new appointment along with a ticket number. These inputs are processed by protocols that calculate estimated waiting times and generate ticket numbers for new users. The processed information is relayed to the control unit and displayed through the user interface, ensuring organized flow. By dynamically updating based on current activity, the module optimizes scheduling, reduces congestion, and maintains fairness in ration distribution.

[0050] Additionally, a scanning unit 111 installed in the kiosk 101 to scan a ration card of the user to fetch account of the user. The scanning unit 111 works internally by capturing data from a ration card presented by the user, using radio-frequency technology depending on the card type. When activated by the control unit, it reads encoded information such as user identity or account details and converts it into digital signals. These signals are transmitted to the control unit, which validates the credentials and forwards them to the communication module for database verification. This ensures secure authentication, seamless user identification, and accurate retrieval of ration entitlement information.

[0051] Lastly, a projection unit 112 installed with the kiosk 101 to display account details of the identified user. The projection unit 112 works internally by receiving processed account data and display commands from the control unit, which are then converted into visual signals through an image processing circuit. These signals drive a light source that passes through optical elements such as lenses and mirrors to project the information onto an external surface. The projected output includes user account details, entitlement status, or notifications in real time. This enables clear visibility for the user, ensuring transparency, accuracy, and trust in the ration distribution process.

[0052] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the kiosk 101 as disclosed in the invention is stationed with the platform 102 at its front portion to accommodate the user, and upon stepping onto the platform 102, pressure sensors detect the presence of the user and activate the camera 106 synchronized with the 3D depth sensor for facial recognition. The captured data is processed by the control unit and relayed via the communication module to the central database for authentication and retrieval of the user’s ration account. Alternatively, the scanning unit 111 scan the ration card of the user for account verification. Once authenticated, the queue management module coordinates the user’s turn, while the user interface and projection unit 112 provide appointment, account, and transaction details to the user in real time. The plurality of storage tanks 103 within the kiosk 101 securely stores grains, each monitored by sensing means to detect parameters such as moisture, odour, vibration, and colour, with data transmitted to the control unit for quality assessment. Load cells further monitor grain quantity, while temperature sensors and Peltier units regulate storage conditions.

[0053] In continuation, the motorized ribbon mixer 104 activated within the tanks 103 to agitate grains for complete sensing, ensuring accurate quality monitoring. In case of any detected anomaly in grain condition, the communication unit automatically generates the alert to the pre-designated authority. When dispensing is required, the control unit actuates the valve 105 at the outlet of the selected tank 103, releasing grains towards the hopper 107 positioned over the slider 108. The hopper 107 directs the grains into the screw conveyor 109, whose rotation guides them steadily towards the dispensing nozzle 110. The dispensing nozzle 110, activated in synchronization with the screw conveyor 109, delivers grains in controlled quantities as determined by account data, while the weight sensor integrated with the hopper 107 ensures precision of the dispensed ration. The IR sensor embedded in front of the kiosk 101 confirms the presence of the bag for collection before initiating the dispensing process, ensuring accuracy and preventing spillage.

[0054] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A ration distribution system, comprising:

i) a kiosk 101 provided with a platform 102 at a front portion of the kiosk 101 to accommodate a user;
ii) a plurality of storage tanks 103 disposed within the kiosk 101 to store grains;
iii) a sensing means installed in each of the tanks 103 to detect moisture content of the grains, odour of the grains and spoilage of the grains;
iv) a communication unit installed with the kiosk 101 to generate an alert for a pre-designated authority upon detection of an anomaly by the sensing unit;
v) a plurality of pressure sensors installed over the platform 102 to detect a presence of the user over the platform 102;
vi) a camera 106 configured for facial recognition, mounted over the kiosk 101 and actuated upon a positive presence detection by the sensing means, to identify the user based on captured facial data to enable fetching of assigned ration account from a central database via the communication unit;
vii) a dispensing arrangement integrated with the kiosk 101 to dispense grains in accordance with fetched account of the user, the dispensing arrangement comprising a hopper 107 mounted over a slider 108 arranged underneath the tanks 103, inside the kiosk 101, to receive grains from an outlet of each of the tanks 103, a screw conveyor 109 integrated with the hopper 107 to guide the received grains towards a dispensing nozzle 110 mounted with an outer surface of the hopper 107;
viii) an IR (infrared) sensor embedded in front of the kiosk 101 to detect presence of a bag for collection of grains, to cause the screw conveyor 109 and the nozzle 110 to initiate dispensing of grains;
ix) a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit to establish communication with the communication unit to request an appointment for grain collection and track grains collection history; and
x) a queue management module configured with a control unit receives appointment requests, instant user availing grain and visual data from the camera 106 regarding a number of people in queue to generate an estimated time for a new appointment along with a ticket number.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising load cells embedded in each of the tanks 103 to monitor a quantity of grains stored in each of the tanks 103.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a Peltier unit integrated in each of the tanks 103 to regulate a temperature of the stored grains based on a temperature of the grains detected by a temperature sensor embedded in the tank 103.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensing means comprises a moisture sensor to detect moisture content of the grains, an odour sensor to detect odour sensor of the grains, a vibration sensor to detect vibrations caused by presence of pests and a colour sensor to detect colour of the grains.

5) The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a motorised ribbon mixer 104 installed in each of the tanks 103 to agitate the grains for a complete inspection by the sensing unit.

6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the outlet of the tank 103 is provided with a valve 105 for a controlled flow of grains.

7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the camera 106 is synchronised with a 3D depth sensor embedded over the platform 102 for accurate facial recognition.

8) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a scanning unit 111 installed in the kiosk 101 to scan a ration card of the user, to fetch account of the user.

9) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dispensing arrangement is further provided with a weight sensor integrated with the hopper 107 to detect a weight of the grain received to control the quantity of grains dispensed via the screw conveyor 109 as per fetched account data.

10) The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a projection unit 112 installed with the kiosk 101 to display account details of the identified user.

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202521091637-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
2 202521091637-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
3 202521091637-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
4 202521091637-PROOF OF RIGHT [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
5 202521091637-POWER OF AUTHORITY [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
6 202521091637-FORM-9 [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
7 202521091637-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
8 202521091637-FORM 18 [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
9 202521091637-FORM 1 [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
10 202521091637-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
11 202521091637-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
12 202521091637-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
13 202521091637-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
14 202521091637-DRAWINGS [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
15 202521091637-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
16 202521091637-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [24-09-2025(online)].pdf 2025-09-24
17 Abstract.jpg 2025-10-06