Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an inventory management device that is developed to optimize food preservation, minimize waste, and enhance user experience in the process of storing, organizing, and tracking food items. More specifically, the device performs real-time monitoring, for ensuring that items are kept under optimal storage conditions, in view of reducing spoilage, and providing users with valuable insights regarding the food they store.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Generally, keeping track of what's in the fridge is difficult. Many people forget what food they have, especially when it’s hidden at the back, leading to expired items and wasted money. Sometimes, food gets overlooked, or we buy extra of what we already have, simply because it’s hard to remember exactly what's inside. Plus, knowing when food will spoil or if it's still safe to eat becomes a guessing game. Traditional fridges don’t offer any help with managing food or keeping track of what’s about to expire. This leads to unnecessary food waste, wasted money, and frustration. People often end up throwing away perfectly good food due to forgetting about the food or not realizing the food is nearing its expiry date, which is quite a hassle.

[0003] Conventionally, mechanical refrigerators were used by users, as this allowed food to stay fresh for longer periods, improving both home and commercial food preservation. However, even with refrigeration, keeping track of items in the fridge and ensuring they were stored optimally was still a manual process. So, people also use smart fridges as these connect to the internet, but the problem of food tracking and organization remained unresolved for the most part. These refrigerators, equipped with imaging module and sensors, allow users to see inside the fridge remotely but still require manual tracking of food types and expiration dates.

[0004] US20220155007A1 discloses about an invention that includes a refrigerator appliance is provided including a cabinet defining a chilled chamber, a door rotatably hinged to the cabinet to provide selective access to the chilled chamber, and a camera assembly mounted to the cabinet for monitoring the chilled chamber. A controller is operably coupled to the camera assembly and is configured to obtain a raw image using the camera assembly, analyze the raw image to identify an anchor object, crop the raw image to generate a reduced image surrounding the anchor object, and analyze the reduced image to identify a food item being added to or removed from the chilled chamber.

[0005] KR20190070700A discloses about an invention that includes a smart refrigerator for facilitating inventory management, and more particularly, to a refrigerator capable of automatically ordering inventory by allowing a refrigerator and an external smart device to be interlocked wirelessly. In a refrigerator including a main body having a shelf and a main system, a weight sensor is included in the shelf to identify the inventory, And the communication unit transmits the inventory information to the smart device.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of managing inventory of the refrigerator. However, these existing devices are incapable of ensuring automatic detection and removal of spoiled food. Additionally, these existing devices also lack the ability to automatically reorder items when they are running low or nearing expiration.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to ensure automatic detection and removal of spoiled food, thereby promoting hygiene, preventing food waste, and optimizing the food storage process without requiring manual intervention from the user. In addition, the developed device also needs to integrate with external resources, such as grocery stores, to automatically reorder items when they are running low or nearing expiration, thereby enhancing convenience and reducing the need for proactive management from the user.

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 automating the storage and categorization of food items, ensuring that each item is placed in an appropriate environment to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that continuously monitors and adjusts conditions such as temperature, humidity, and spoilage, for ensuring that food is preserved at its best quality with minimal human involvement.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provide a means to enables users to track food inventories, access nutritional information, receive expiry notifications, and obtain recipe suggestions based on the available ingredients.

[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 inventory management device that is capable of facilitating the organization and classification of food products, in view of guaranteeing that every item is positioned in the ideal setting to preserve its quality and avoid deterioration.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an inventory management device comprises of, a refrigerator installed with a refrigeration unit having an air compressor, condensation coil, expansion valve, evaporation coil, a plurality of trays incorporated within the refrigerator for creating multiple sections within the refrigerator, for allowing a user to place items to be stored within the refrigerator, a rectangular frame is mounted on a ceiling portion of a top section of the refrigerator for assembling an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit paired with a processor, configured to determine type of the items being placed by the user, the imaging unit is integrated with multiple machine learning protocols for identifying items and classification of the items into categories such as dairy, vegetable, raw and cooked food, based on which the microcontroller selects the suitable sections, an extendable shaft installed in between the ceiling portion and frame, in synchronization with the imaging unit for extending/retracting to position the frame in close proximity to the item, a pair of first and second plates mounted on lateral sides of the refrigerator, each by means of a motorized slider, in case the accommodated items need repositioning, a double rack gear lever assembly mounted on the frame for pushing the item towards the first plate, synchronously the slider provide downward translation to the first plate, for arranging the item in close proximity to the suitable sections, a spiral barrel cam assembly arranged on each of the plates for applying an optimum force onto the item for arranging the food item within the suitable sections, a sensing module is installed on each of the sections and on an exterior portion of the refrigerator for detecting temperature and humidity, inside and outside of the refrigerator, in case the detected temperature and humidity mismatches a pre-fed correlational thresholds, the microcontroller directs a controlling unit of the refrigeration unit for adjusting real-time temperature of the sections, ensuring an optimal freshness and preservation of the item, a flap arranged on a ceiling portion of the sections, equipped with an odor sensor and a thermal camera, that works in tandem for detecting spoiled items stored within the sections, and the odor sensor is a gas sensor capable of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by spoiled food items, and the thermal camera is configured to identify temperature anomalies indicative of spoilage, in case of detection of the spoiled item.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further includes a robotic arm arranged in each of the sections to grab the spoiled item for positioning onto the second plate, simultaneously the sliders provide downward translation to the second plate in proximity to a waste compartment installed at a lowermost portion of the refrigerator in view of allowing the spiral cam assembly in view of dispensing the spoiled items, the microcontroller is further configured to notify the user through a wireless notification on a user interface installed in a computing unit wirelessly linked with the microcontroller, upon detection of the spoiled item, providing an option for automatic disposal or manual removal of the spoiled item, a counter proximity sensor arranged in each of the flap, for tracking real-time count of the stored items, that are being displayed on a touch interactive display panel mounted on an exterior portion of the refrigerator for providing real-time visibility of stored items, the microcontroller fetches data from the linked database, for displaying nutritional information, expiration dates, and recipe suggestions based on available items, thereby facilitating in effective management of the refrigerator, the display panel is configured to allow the user to interact with the refrigerator’s inventory by tapping on items displayed on the panel to view detailed information, including expiration dates, nutritional facts, and suggested recipes, the imaging unit is equipped with an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) module for capturing expiry dates of stored packets, the user interface is further configured to connect the device to an online grocery store, enabling the user to allow automatic ordering of replacement items when stock is low or items have expired and a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a refrigerator associated with an inventory management device; and
Figure 2 illustrates an internal view of the refrigerator associated with the 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 inventory management device that is capable of enabling the proper organization and categorization of food items, for making sure every item is stored in an appropriate environment to maintain freshness and avoid spoilage.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a refrigerator associated with an inventory management device and an internal view of the refrigerator associated with the device are illustrated, respectively, comprising a refrigerator 101, a plurality of trays 201 incorporated within the refrigerator 101 for creating multiple sections within the refrigerator 101, a rectangular frame 202 is mounted on a ceiling portion of a top section of the refrigerator 101 for assembling an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 203, an extendable shaft 204 installed in between the ceiling portion and frame 202.

[0023] Figure 1 and 2 further illustrates a pair of first and second plates 205, 206 mounted on lateral sides of the refrigerator 101 each by means of a motorized slider 207, a double rack gear lever assembly 208 mounted on the frame 202, a spiral barrel cam assembly 209 arranged on each of the plates 205, 206, a two-axis slider 210 is installed in between the ceiling and the shaft 204, a flap 211 arranged on a ceiling portion of the sections, equipped with a thermal camera 212, a waste compartment 213 installed at a lowermost portion of the refrigerator 101, a touch interactive display panel 102 mounted on an exterior portion of the refrigerator 101, a robotic arm 214 arranged in each of the sections.

[0024] The device disclosed herein comprising a refrigerator 101 which is equipped with a refrigeration unit consisting of essential components such as an air compressor, condensation coil, expansion valve, and evaporation coil. The air compressor compresses the refrigerant gas, which then passes through the condensation coil where it cools and condenses into a liquid. The liquid refrigerant is expanded through the expansion valve, lowering its pressure and temperature. Next, the refrigerant moves through the evaporation coil, absorbing heat from inside the refrigerator 101 and evaporating to cool the space. This ongoing process ensures the refrigerator 101 maintains the required internal temperature for optimal food preservation.

[0025] A plurality of trays 201 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) is integrated within the refrigerator 101 to create distinct sections, allowing a user to organize and place various items for storage. These trays 201 are strategically positioned within the refrigerator 101 to maximize space utilization and ensure efficient storage. Each tray 201 serves as a dedicated space for different types of items, enabling the user to manage food items or other goods more effectively. The arrangement of trays 201 allows for easy access to stored items, while also maintaining a structured organization inside the refrigerator 101, ensuring that the refrigerator 101 internal environment remains optimized for proper food preservation.

[0026] A rectangular frame 202 is affixed to the ceiling portion of the top section of the refrigerator 101, designed to house an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 203 paired with a processor. The imaging unit 203 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the trays 201 and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 203 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 203 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images.

[0027] This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data which are processed by the microcontroller to determine type of the items being placed by the user.

[0028] Also, the imaging unit 203 is integrated with multiple machine learning protocols designed to identify and classify items placed inside the refrigerator 101. These protocols enable the imaging unit 203 to categorize items into various groups such as dairy, vegetables, raw food, and cooked food. Once the classification is complete, the microcontroller processes the data and selects the most appropriate storage section for each item.

[0029] The machine learning protocols enhance the device ability to recognize and categorize a wide variety of food items accurately, ensuring that each item is stored in conditions that best preserve its freshness and quality. The microcontroller, based on this classification, optimizes storage by selecting and directing the items to their designated sections.

[0030] The microcontroller is linked with the imaging unit 203 to process the determined type of items by comparing the captured images against a linked database containing information about the optimal storage conditions for each identified type of item. Upon processing the data, the microcontroller determines the suitable storage section for each item based on the type and optimal conditions. To facilitate the placement of items, the microcontroller activates an extendable shaft 204 installed between the ceiling portion and the frame 202.

[0031] The shaft 204 is pneumatically actuated, wherein the pneumatic arrangement of the shaft 204 comprises of a cylinder incorporated with an air piston and the air compressor, wherein the compressor controls discharging of compressed air into the cylinder via air valves which further leads to the extension/retraction of the piston. The piston is attached to the telescopic shaft 204, wherein the extension/retraction of the piston corresponds to the extension/retraction of the shaft 204. The actuated compressor allows extension of the shaft 204 to position frame 202 in close proximity to the item.

[0032] Simultaneously, the shaft 204 is translated via a two-axis slider 210 which is installed in between the shaft 204 and ceiling portion of the refrigerator 101. The two-axis slider 210 are designed to control both horizontal (side-to-side) and vertical (up-and-down) movement of shaft 204. The motorized two-axis slider 210 use electric motors and precise gear assemblies to control the movement of the shaft 204. The two-axis slider 210 comprises of a pair of sliding rail assembled perpendicular to each other and on actuation the gear assembly translates the shaft 204 in tow direction to position frame 202 in close proximity to the item.

[0033] A pair of first and second plates 205, 206 are mounted on the lateral sides of the refrigerator 101, each of which is connected to a motorized slider 207. In the event that the accommodated items within the refrigerator 101 require repositioning, the microcontroller activates a double rack gear lever assembly 208 mounted on the frame 202 of the refrigerator 101. This lever assembly 208 functions to push the item toward the first plate 205, facilitating its proper placement.

[0034] The double rack gear lever assembly 208 operates by using two parallel racks connected to a gear arrangement. When the microcontroller sends a signal to activate the lever assembly 208, the gear arrangement engages, causing both racks to move simultaneously. Each rack has teeth that mesh with corresponding gears, translating rotary motion into linear movement. This motion pushes the item towards the first plate 205. The synchronized movement of the racks ensures that the item is moved smoothly and precisely. The gear arrangement ensures controlled movement, providing accurate positioning of the item within the refrigerator 101 section.

[0035] Synchronously, the microcontroller actuates the slider 207. The slider 207 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 207 results in providing downward translation to the first plate 205, for arranging the item in close proximity to the suitable sections.

[0036] A spiral barrel cam assembly 209 is positioned on each plate within the refrigerator 101 and is designed to apply controlled force onto the stored food items. This barrel cam assembly 209 rotates in a continuous motion and generates a linear force that moves the food item into the desired position within the suitable section of the refrigerator 101. The barrel cam assembly 209 is calibrated to apply an optimal amount of pressure, ensuring that the item is securely placed without causing damage, maintaining proper organization of the refrigerator 101 contents.

[0037] The spiral barrel cam assembly 209 operates by rotating a spiral-shaped cam, which is mounted on a rotating shaft. As the cam rotates, the spiral design converts rotational motion into linear displacement. This motion pushes the food item along the plate, guiding it into the desired position within the refrigerator 101 section. The force applied by the spiral cam is precisely calibrated to ensure that the item is moved with controlled pressure, allowing the item to be securely and efficiently arranged in its designated storage area.

[0038] A sensing module is strategically placed within each section and the exterior portion of the refrigerator 101. This module is equipped with both a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor, responsible for continuously monitoring and detecting the temperature and humidity levels inside and outside of the refrigerator 101. The collected data is then communicated to the microcontroller, which compares the detected values against pre-set thresholds. If discrepancies are found between the actual and desired environmental conditions, the microcontroller adjusts the refrigeration unit's settings accordingly to ensure optimal freshness and preservation of the stored items.

[0039] The temperature sensor operates by detecting changes in the temperature of its surrounding environment. The temperature sensor typically uses a thermistor or thermocouple that changes its resistance or voltage in response to temperature variations. The sensor transmits these readings to the microcontroller, which processes the data. If the temperature deviates from the desired range, the microcontroller activates the refrigeration unit’s control unit to either cool down or warm up the internal environment, ensuring that the temperature remains within the optimal range for food preservation.

[0040] The humidity sensor measures the level of moisture in the air by detecting the changes in the relative humidity. The humidity sensor typically uses a capacitive or resistive sensor, where the electrical properties of the sensor change as humidity levels fluctuate. This data is sent to the microcontroller, which compares it against the pre-configured threshold. If the humidity level is too high or low, the microcontroller will trigger the refrigerator 101 control unit to adjust the conditions, ensuring the optimal humidity level for preserving stored food items and preventing spoilage.

[0041] A flap 211 is positioned on the ceiling portion of the refrigerator 101 sections, housing an odor sensor and a thermal camera 212. These two components work in tandem to detect spoiled items within the sections. The odor sensor, which functions as a gas sensor, is specifically designed to detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by spoiled food items. These VOCs are typically released as food begins to degrade.

[0042] In parallel, the thermal camera 212 monitors temperature anomalies that may indicate spoilage, such as unusual warmth caused by bacterial growth or decaying food. By detecting both chemical and thermal changes, the microcontroller efficiently identifies spoiled food items, enabling appropriate intervention to maintain food quality and safety.

[0043] The odor sensor detects volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by spoiled food items. When the food begins to degrade, it releases specific gases, such as ethanol, ammonia, or sulphur compounds. The sensor uses a sensitive material that reacts to these gases, causing a change in electrical resistance or capacitance. The sensor measures these changes, which are then processed and analyzed by the microcontroller to identify potential spoilage. The detected VOCs are compared to predefined patterns in the device database to confirm the presence of spoiled food and trigger necessary actions.

[0044] Synchronously, the thermal camera 212 detects temperature variations in the refrigerator 101 sections, which may indicate spoilage. The thermal camera 212 uses an infrared sensor to capture heat emitted by objects inside the section. The camera 212 measures the temperature distribution across different areas, detecting any anomalies, such as increased heat around decaying food. These temperature changes are processed by the microcontroller to identify potential spoilage, as certain types of bacteria and decaying processes produce heat. If an anomaly is detected, the microcontroller to take corrective actions, such as notifying the user.

[0045] Upon detection of a spoiled item, the microcontroller activates the robotic arm 214 within the affected section of the refrigerator 101. The robotic arm 214, guided by the microcontroller, carefully grasps the spoiled item and positions it onto the second plate 206. Following this, the microcontroller triggers the motorized slider 207, which facilitate the downward movement of the second plate 206 towards a waste compartment 213 located at the lower portion of the refrigerator 101. The spiral cam assembly is then engaged to apply the necessary force, ensuring the removal and dispensing of the spoiled item into the waste compartment 213. This process ensures the proper disposal of spoiled food while maintaining optimal conditions for the remaining stored items.

[0046] The robotic arm 214 used herein mainly comprises of motor controllers, arm, end effector and sensors. The arm is the essential part of the robotic arm 214 and it 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, typically connected to the microcontroller. The elbow is in the middle and allows the upper section of the arm to move forward or backward independently of the lower section. Finally, the wrist is at the very end of the upper arm and attaches to the end effector. The end effector connected to the arm acts as a hand and acquire a grip of the spoiled item and positions the spoiled item onto the second plate 206.

[0047] The microcontroller herein detects spoiled items within the refrigerator 101 by analyzing data received from sensors. Upon detection of a spoiled item, the microcontroller triggers a wireless notification to the user interface installed in a computing unit. This notification is transmitted to the user through a wireless communication link between the microcontroller and the computing unit.

[0048] The notification includes an option for the user to either initiate automatic disposal or manually remove the spoiled item. Based on the user’s choice, the microcontroller regulates the operation of the robotic arm 214 to either dispose of or remove the spoiled item from the storage area, ensuring efficient management of the refrigerator 101 contents.

[0049] A counter proximity sensor is installed in each flap 211 of the refrigerator 101 to monitor and track the real-time count of items stored within the refrigerator 101. This data is continuously sent to the linked microcontroller, which processes the information and displays the data on a touch interactive display panel 102 mounted on the exterior of the refrigerator 101. The display panel 102 offers real-time visibility of the stored items and, based on the data fetched from a linked database, the panel 102 provides additional information such as nutritional details, expiration dates, and recipe suggestions based on the ingredients available. This enhances the user’s ability to effectively manage the contents of the refrigerator 101, ensuring proper inventory tracking and facilitating meal planning.

[0050] The counter proximity sensor detects objects in its range by sending out a signal and measuring how long it takes for the signal to bounce back after hitting the food item. When the food item enters the sensor’s detection area, the sensor calculates the distance based on the time it takes for the signal to return. This information is sent to the microcontroller, which keeps track of how many items are present in the storage area. The sensor continues to monitor the items, updating the count as things are added or removed from the refrigerator 101.

[0051] Synchronously, the display panel 102 displays the count of the stored items for providing real-time visibility of stored items. The display panel 102 comprises an LED or LCD screen, a control board, a backlight arrangement, and input connectors. The LED/LCD screen serves as the main visual output, while the control board manages data input and image processing. The backlight arrangement, often made of LEDs, illuminates the screen, ensuring visibility. When information is sent to the display, the control board processes the data and directs the LED/LCD pixels to show specific colors, creating images or text. The backlight adjusts brightness for optimal clarity. This combined functionality enables the panel 102 to accurately display the quantity of stored items and display nutritional information, expiration dates, and recipe suggestions based on available items, thereby offering real-time visibility and facilitating effective management of the refrigerator 101.

[0052] Correspondingly, the display panel 102 enable the user to interact with the refrigerator 101 inventory through a touch interface. Upon tapping on an item displayed on the panel 102, the user is presented with detailed information about that particular item, such as its expiration date, nutritional facts, and any other relevant details. Additionally, based on the available ingredients in the refrigerator 101, the display panel 102 provides suggested recipes for the user, allowing them to make informed decisions about meal preparation.

[0053] The imaging unit 203 disclosed above incorporates an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) module for recognizing expiry dates printed on food packaging. Upon capturing the image of food items stored inside the refrigerator 101, the OCR module processes the text and identifies expiry dates. These dates are sent to the microcontroller, which compares them with pre-fed data to suggest relevant recipes based on the ingredients available in the refrigerator 101. Additionally, when food items are nearing their expiration, the microcontroller triggers notifications to the user, alerting them to take timely action and reduce food waste.

[0054] The OCR module process the high-resolution image of the food packaging captured by the imaging unit 203, and specifically focusing on the area containing text such as expiry dates or product information. The image is processed using pattern recognition protocols that scan and identify individual characters. The OCR module compares the identified characters against known fonts and language patterns. Once the text is successfully identified, the module extracts the expiry date, which is then converted into a machine-readable format (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD). This date is passed to the microcontroller, which cross-references it with the stored data for notifications or actions like alerting the user when an item is close to expiry or recommending recipes using available ingredients.

[0055] Further the user interface is configured to establish a connection with an online grocery store, enabling seamless integration between the device and the store’s inventory arrangement. Upon detecting that certain items within the refrigerator 101 are running low or have surpassed their expiration date, the user interface automatically triggers an order request. This process is initiated by the linked microcontroller, which evaluates the stock levels or expiry dates of the items stored within the refrigerator 101. Based on this evaluation, the interface facilitates the automatic placement of orders for the replacement of such items, thereby ensuring that the user’s supply of groceries is continuously replenished without manual intervention.

[0056] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the device, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the device.

[0057] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the refrigerator 101 as disclosed in the invention is installed with the refrigeration unit having the air compressor, condensation coil, expansion valve, evaporation coil. Plurality of trays 201 incorporated within the refrigerator 101 for creating multiple sections within the refrigerator 101, for allowing the user to place items to be stored within the refrigerator 101. The rectangular frame 202 is assembling the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 203 that determine type of the items being placed by the user. Also, the imaging unit 203 is integrated with multiple machine learning protocols for identifying items and classification of the items into categories such as dairy, vegetable, raw and cooked food. Based on which the microcontroller selects the suitable sections, the microcontroller linked with the imaging unit 203 for processing the determined type of items to determine suitable storage section for the items, by comparing captured images against the linked database containing information about optimal storage condition for each identified type of items. The extendable shaft 204 installed in between the ceiling portion and frame 202 extending/retracting to position the frame 202 in close proximity to the item. The pair of first and second plates 205, 206 mounted on lateral sides of the refrigerator 101, each by means of the motorized slider 207. In case the accommodated items need repositioning the double rack gear lever assembly 208 pushes the item towards the first plate 205. And synchronously, the slider 207 provides downward translation to the first plate 205, for arranging the item in close proximity to the suitable sections. The spiral barrel cam assembly 209 applying the optimum force onto the item for arranging the food item within the suitable sections. And the sensing module detects temperature and humidity, inside and outside of the refrigerator 101. In case the detected temperature and humidity mismatches the pre-fed correlational thresholds the microcontroller directs the controlling unit of the refrigeration unit for adjusting real-time temperature of the sections for ensuring the optimal freshness and preservation of the item.

[0058] In continuation the flap 211 arranged on the ceiling portion of the sections, equipped with the odor sensor and the thermal camera 212, that works in tandem for detecting spoiled items stored within the sections. The odor sensor is the gas sensor capable of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by spoiled food items, and the thermal camera 212 is configured to identify temperature anomalies indicative of spoilage. In case of detection of the spoiled item the robotic arm 214 grabs the spoiled item for positioning onto the second plate 206. Simultaneously, the slider 207 provide downward translation to the second plate 206 in proximity to the waste compartment 213 installed at the lowermost portion of the refrigerator 101 in view of allowing the spiral cam assembly for dispensing the spoiled items. The microcontroller is further configured to notify the user through the wireless notification on the user interface installed in the computing unit wirelessly linked with the microcontroller. Upon detection of the spoiled item, providing the option for automatic disposal or manual removal of the spoiled item. Based on which the microcontroller regulates operation of the robotic arm 214. Further the counter proximity sensor tracks real-time count of the stored items, that are being displayed on the touch interactive display panel 102 for providing real-time visibility of stored items. The microcontroller fetches data from the linked database, for displaying nutritional information, expiration dates, and recipe suggestions based on available items, thereby facilitating in effective management of the refrigerator 101. Also, the display panel 102 is configured to allow the user to interact with the refrigerator 101 inventory by tapping on items displayed on the panel 102 to view detailed information, including expiration dates, nutritional facts, and suggested recipes. Furthermore, the imaging unit 203 is equipped with the OCR (Optical Character Recognition) module for capturing expiry dates of stored packets, based on which the microcontroller suggests recipes based on ingredients available inside the refrigerator 101 and provide notifications to the user about food items that are close to expiring. Moreover, the user interface is further configured to connect the device to the online grocery store, enabling the user to allow automatic ordering of replacement items when stock is low or items have expired.

[0059] 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 inventory management device, comprising a refrigerator 101 installed with a refrigeration unit having an air compressor, condensation coil, expansion valve, evaporation coil, characterized in that:

i) a plurality of trays 201 incorporated within said refrigerator 101 for creating multiple sections within said refrigerator 101, for allowing a user to place items to be stored within said refrigerator 101, wherein a rectangular frame 202 is mounted on a ceiling portion of a top section of said refrigerator 101 for assembling an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 203 paired with a processor, configured to capture and process multiple images of trays 201 present in proximity of said top section, respectively to determine type of said items being placed by said user;

ii) a microcontroller linked with said imaging unit 203 for processing said determined type of items to determine suitable storage section for said items, by comparing captured images against a linked database containing information about optimal storage condition for each identified type of items, wherein said microcontroller activates an extendable shaft 204 installed in between said ceiling portion and frame 202, in synchronization with said imaging unit 203 for extending/retracting to position said frame 202 in close proximity to said item;

iii) a pair of first and second plates 205, 206 mounted on lateral sides of said refrigerator 101, each by means of a motorized slider 207, wherein in case said accommodated items need repositioning, said microcontroller actuates a double rack gear lever assembly 208 mounted on said frame 202 for pushing said item towards said first plate 205, followed by activation of said slider 207 to provide downward translation to said first plate 205, for arranging said item in close proximity to said suitable sections;

iv) a spiral barrel cam assembly 209 arranged on each of said plates 205, 206 for applying an optimum force onto said item for arranging said food item within said suitable sections, wherein a sensing module is installed on each of said sections and on an exterior portion of said refrigerator 101 for detecting temperature and humidity, inside and outside of said refrigerator 101, wherein in case said detected temperature and humidity mismatches a pre-fed correlational thresholds, said microcontroller directs a controlling unit of said refrigeration unit for adjusting real-time temperature of said sections, ensuring an optimal freshness and preservation of said item;

v) a flap 211 arranged on a ceiling portion of said sections, equipped with an odor sensor and a thermal camera 212, that works in tandem for detecting spoiled items stored within said sections, wherein in case of detection of said spoiled item, said microcontroller actuates a robotic arm 214 arranged in each of said sections to grab said spoiled item for positioning onto said second plate 206, followed by actuation of said slider 207 to provide downward translation to said second plate 206 in proximity to a waste compartment 213 installed at a lowermost portion of said refrigerator 101 in view of allowing said spiral cam assembly in view of dispensing said spoiled items; and

vi) a counter proximity sensor arranged in each of said flap 211, for tracking real-time count of said stored items, that are being displayed on a touch interactive display panel 102 mounted on an exterior portion of said refrigerator 101 for providing real-time visibility of stored items, wherein said microcontroller fetches data from said linked database, for displaying nutritional information, expiration dates, and recipe suggestions based on available items, thereby facilitating in effective management of said refrigerator 101.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 203 is integrated with multiple machine learning protocols for identifying items and classification of said items into categories such as dairy, vegetable, raw and cooked food, based on which said microcontroller selects said suitable sections.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said odor sensor is a gas sensor capable of detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by spoiled food items, and said thermal camera 212 is configured to identify temperature anomalies indicative of spoilage.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is further configured to notify said user through a wireless notification on a user interface installed in a computing unit wirelessly linked with said microcontroller, upon detection of said spoiled item, providing an option for automatic disposal or manual removal of said spoiled item, based on which said microcontroller regulates operation of said robotic arm 214.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 203 is equipped with an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) module for capturing expiry dates of stored packets, based on which said microcontroller suggest recipes based on ingredients available inside said refrigerator 101 and provide notifications to said user about food items that are close to expiring.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1 and 5, wherein said user interface is further configured to connect said device to an online grocery store, enabling said user to allow automatic ordering of replacement items when stock is low or items have expired.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said display panel 102 is configured to allow said user to interact with said refrigerator 101 inventory by tapping on items displayed on said panel 102 to view detailed information, including expiration dates, nutritional facts, and suggested recipes.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.