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Food Collection And Animal Feed Preparation Device

Abstract: A food collection and animal feed preparation device, comprising a housing 101 with motorized omnidirectional wheels 102 attached via telescopic rods 103 for locomotion, a user interface for communication with food outlets to summon device for residual food collection, a platform 104 with an opening for food placement, a sensing unit work in sync with an articulated artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 110 for recording and processing images to detect food type, dimensions, and quality, an articulated telescopic gripper 111 for positioning food onto a sorting conveyor 124, a tank 112 located under chambers 108 with a motorized flap 115 for grinding and mixing food, a nozzle 116 for dispensing feed, an artificial intelligence-based camera 107 to detect animals and selectively actuate iris holes 114 to dispense food into tank 112 for mixing, and an articulated L-shaped telescopic link 118with a bowl for receiving and dispensing feed to animals.

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Patent Information

Application #
Filing Date
21 April 2025
Publication Number
20/2025
Publication Type
INA
Invention Field
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
Status
Email
Parent Application

Applicants

SR University
Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.

Inventors

1. Dr. Durgesh Nandan
School of (Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence), SR University, Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.
2. Rentala Nanda Kishore
School of (Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence), SR University, Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.
3. Pentkar Arun Kumar
School of (Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence), SR University, Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.
4. Aitha Dinesh
School of (Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence), SR University, Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.
5. Gaddam Sri Vidya
School of (Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence), SR University, Ananthasagar, Hasanparthy (PO), Warangal-506371, Telangana, India.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a food collection and animal feed preparation device that enables the collection of leftover food from various locations in an efficient, contactless, and timely manner. In addition, the device disclosed in the present invention aims to reduce manual handling, minimizing food wastage, and improving convenience for food providers without the need for constant supervision.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] There is a growing need for a device that efficiently collect leftover or excess food and convert collected food into suitable material for animal feed, especially in agricultural and food processing settings. Current practices often involve manual sorting, transportation, and processing, which are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and prone to hygiene and consistency issues. Uneven food quality, contamination, and lack of proper segregation make it difficult to ensure safety and nutritional value of the resulting feed. Additionally, the absence of automated devices leads to wastage and increased operational costs. Users also face challenges in maintaining appropriate moisture levels and controlling spoilage, which compromise feed quality and animal health. An integrated solution is therefore essential.

[0003] Several devices are available for food waste processing and animal feed preparation, such as composting units, dehydrators, and mechanical grinders. While these devices offer basic functionality, they often lack integration and automation needed for efficient feed preparation. Most devices do not include features for sorting, sanitizing, or preserving nutritional value during processing. Manual intervention is still required for segregating food types and removing non-edible materials, which increases labor and reduces reliability. Additionally, existing machines do not effectively regulate moisture or prevent microbial contamination, leading to inconsistent feed quality. High energy consumption, bulky designs, and lack of mobility are also common drawbacks, making them unsuitable for small farms or decentralized food processing setups.

[0004] US20120261320A1 discloses a food waste management system includes a tank having an internal chamber for containing food waste and sufficient water for fully submersing the food waste. The system further includes a water supply system for supplying water to the internal chamber, a gas supply system for supplying a gas to the internal chamber, a discharge system for discharging water and food waste from the internal chamber, a grinder system adapted for grinding the food waste, the grinder system being disposed in the internal chamber to be fully submersed in the water, a circulation system disposed in the internal chamber for circulating water and food waste and a control system adapted for controlling operation of the food waste management system in accordance with a desired control process. The system further includes a nutrient additive to be supplied to the internal chamber in predetermined amounts at predetermined intervals.

[0005] KR101215310B1 relates to a food waste treatment apparatus for a sink, specifically, the present invention can be ground and fermented in a sink without putting in a separate collection container, can reduce the production cost and installation cost, and crush, compress and The present invention relates to a low-cost, high-efficiency sink food waste treatment apparatus that can significantly reduce energy consumption compared to a conventional method of drying.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are availed in the market for collecting and processing waste food to prepare animal feed. However, the cited devices lack to preserve nutrients while processing the food, also lack to provide automated segregation of the food while processing. In addition, the cited device lacks to minimize the chances of food contamination by microbial contamination.

[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 automatically segregating the food, should also be capable of preserving nutrients of the food while processing. In addition, the developed device also needs to be capable of preserving food from microbial contamination.

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 device that enable collection of leftover food from multiple locations in an efficient and contactless manner.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop device that sort and store collected food based on its type and condition for further use.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop device that provide timely and appropriate dispensing of feed to animals based on their specific needs.

[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 food collection and animal feed preparation device that sort and store collected food based on the type and condition of the food, ensuring organized and preserved appropriately for future use. In addition, the device herein helps in reducing spoilage while improving the efficiency of processing the collected food.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a food collection and animal feed preparation device, comprises a housing mounted on a plurality of motorized omnidirectional wheels that are disposed underneath the housing using telescopic rods to facilitate movement and adaptability across varied terrains, a GPS unit is integrated within the housing to allow navigation of the device to a location inputted by the user for food collection, further a user interface is configured to communicate with computing units of food outlets or other users for scheduling and coordinating collection of leftover or residual food, a front-facing platform is attached to an opening at the front of the housing by means of a hinge, enabling users to place food items onto the platform for transfer into the housing, the presence of a proximity sensor allows the device to detect the approach of users in front of the opening to initiate appropriate operations, articulated artificial intelligence-based imaging units installed within the housing work in coordination with sensing units to analyze and detect the type, quality and dimensions of the food placed on the platform, and an articulated telescopic gripper is deployed to pick and position food items onto a sorting conveyor situated inside the housing, the designated chambers are arranged within the housing to separately store different types of food, and each chamber is equipped with a Peltier unit for maintaining an optimal temperature based on the type of food stored,

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the device further comprises of an articulated telescopic bar with a cutting blade in conjunction with a robotic arm functions to remove any packaging materials from the food prior to storage in chambers, the housing also includes a tank arranged beneath the chambers using a sliding unit for receiving food through iris holes provided at the chamber bottoms, a motorized flap facilitates grinding and mixing of food in the tank for conversion into animal feed, and the feed is dispensed through a nozzle connected via a conduit, while an artificial intelligence-based camera detects the type of animal near the housing an L-shaped articulated telescopic link with a bowl at the end is used to serve the feed, a speaker emits audio to attract animals, and a water reservoir connected to sprayers provided in each chamber ensures cleaning and sanitation of 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 food collection and animal feed 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 a food collection and animal feed preparation device that provides timely and appropriate dispensing of feed to animals based on the specific needs, ensuring that each animal receives the correct type and quantity of feed, improving their health and nutrition while reducing food wastage and making the feeding process more efficient and reliable.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a food collection and animal feed preparation device is illustrated, comprising a housing 101 having a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 disposed underneath the housing 101 by means of telescopic rods 103, a platform 104 attached with an opening at a front portion of the housing 101 by means of hinge 105, a speaker 106 is provided on the housing 101, an articulated artificial intelligence-based camera 107 installed on the housing 101, a plurality of designated chambers 108 provided within the housing 101, the chambers 108 is configured with a sliding door 109, an articulated artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 110 installed in the housing 101, an articulated telescopic gripper 111 provided within the housing 101, a tank 112 is disposed in the housing 101, underneath the chambers 108 by means of a sliding unit 113, iris holes 114 provided at bottom of the chambers 108, with a motorized flap 115 installed within the housing 101.

[0023] Figure 1 further illustrates a nozzle 116 provided at an outer surface of the housing 101, connected with the tank 112 via a conduit 117, an articulated L-shaped telescopic link 118 attached with the housing 101 having a bowl at an end, an articulated telescopic bar 119 having a cutting blade 120 at an end with a robotic arm 121 in the housing 101, a water reservoir 122 is arranged within the housing 101, connected with a sprayer 123 provided with each of the chambers 108, a sorting conveyor 124 disposed within the housing 101, and a touch-enabled display unit 125 mounted on the housing 101.

[0024] The device includes a housing 101 preferably in portable cuboidal shape encasing various components associated with the device, developed to be positioned on a ground surface. The housing 101 is made up of any material selected from but not limited to metal or plastic that ensures rigidity of the housing 101 for longevity of the device.

[0025] A user is required to access and presses a switch button arranged on the housing 101 to activate the device for associated processes of the device. The switch button when pressed by the user, opens up an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow for powering an associated microcontroller of the device for operating of all the linked components for performing their respective functions upon actuation.

[0026] After the activation of the device, a user interface is installed in computing units of the users associated with food outlets are linked with the microcontroller wirelessly by means of a communication unit. The user interface enables the user to input the location of residual food and summon the device to that location for collection. The communication unit includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The Wi-Fi module contains transmitters and receivers that use radio frequency signals to transmit data wirelessly to the microcontroller. The wireless module typically includes components such as antennas, amplifiers, and processors to facilitate communication and further connected to networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, allowing devices to exchange information over short or long distances of the housing 101 for communication of wireless commands to facilitate operations of the device.

[0027] Based on the input from the users, a GPS (global positioning device) unit installed within the housing 101 enables a navigation of the housing 101 to the inputted location for food collection. The GPS unit works by receiving signals from a network of satellites orbiting the Earth. These satellites continuously transmit information about their position and the time the signal was sent. The GPS unit in the housing 101 detects signals from at least three or four of these satellites. By calculating the time, it takes for each satellite’s signal to reach the GPS unit, the microcontroller determines the distance from each satellite. Using this distance data and the known positions of the satellites, the GPS unit applies a process called trilateration to calculate the exact position of the housing 101 on Earth. Once the position is determined, the GPS unit provide directional data to navigate the housing 101 towards the inputted location for food collection.

[0028] The housing 101 comprises a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 positioned underneath the housing 101 for translation of the housing 101 as per requirement. The wheels 102 are connected with the housing 101 by means of telescopic rods 103 which are pneumatically powered by a pneumatic arrangement associated with the device. The pneumatic arrangement constitutes extension/retraction of the rod 103 such that elevate the height of the housing 101 as per requirement.

[0029] The pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the... The pneumatic unit is operated by the microcontroller, such that the microcontroller actuates valve to allow passage of compressed air from the compressor within the cylinder from one end, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the rod 103 and due to applied pressure, the rod 103 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the rod 103 by pushing compressed air via the other end of the cylinder, by opening the corresponding valve resulting in retraction of the piston, and the retraction of the rod 103. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the rod 103 to position the wheels 102.

[0030] The microcontroller activates a proximity sensor installed on the housing 101 for detecting the user in front of the opening. The proximity sensor used herein is an infrared proximity sensor that emits infrared light that is reflected back when it encounters an object, like a user standing in front of the opening. The sensor then measures the amount of reflected light and determines if the object is within the sensor's detection range.

[0031] Once the sensor detects the user, it sends a signal to the microcontroller and based on the detected presence of user, the microcontroller actuates a hinge 105 to rotate the platform 104 into a horizontal position for placing of food. The motorized hinge 105 used herein, is a piece of metal that joins two sides or items together and allows it to be opened or closed by revolving along the longitudinal axis whose operation is governed by a DC motor to deploy a platform 104 attached with an opening at a front portion of the housing 101 to enable users to place food onto the platform 104.

[0032] Upon positioning of the food over the platform 104, the microcontroller activates an articulated artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 110, installed in the housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of the housing 101. The imaging unit 110 is linked with a processor that preprocesses the captured images which involves noise reduction to clean the distortions followed by adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance to make the images more uniform. Then, the feature extraction is done using artificial intelligence protocol to identify and extract key features or patterns from the images to highlight significant elements within the image.

[0033] The imaging unit 110 work in synchronisation with a sensing unit provided within the housing 101 detects dimensions, quality and type of the food placed on the platform 104. The sensing unit mentioned herein comprises a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor for detecting dimensions of the food, and a gas sensor for detecting type and quality of the food. The LIDAR sensor (not shown) works by emitting laser pulses towards an object and measuring the time it takes for the light to reflect back to the sensor. By analyzing the time delay and the angle at which the light returns, the sensor create a detailed 3D map or model of the object’s dimensions. In the case of food, the LIDAR sensor detect the size, shape, and position of the food items. This helps the microcontroller accurately determine how to handle or sort the food based on its geometry.

[0034] The gas sensor (not shown), detects the presence of specific gases emitted by the food, which indicate its type and quality. These sensors typically use chemical reactions or a change in electrical resistance when they come into contact with certain gases, like carbon dioxide or ethylene, which are commonly associated with the ripeness or spoilage of food. By analyzing the concentration of these gases, the microcontroller determines the freshness or specific type of the food.

[0035] Based on the detected food parameters, the microcontroller actuates an articulated telescopic gripper 111 provided within the housing 101 to grab and position food onto a sorting conveyor 124 disposed within the housing 101. The telescopic gripper 111 is powered by the pneumatic arrangement associated with the device. The extension/retraction works in the same manner as telescopic rods 103 described earlier. The gripper 111, which is articulated, consists of two or more arm 121 s that move to open or close, securely gripping the food. As the gripper 111 extends, the arm 121 s move toward the food, and when they are in position, they close around the item. Once the food is securely held, the gripper 111 retracts and positions the food onto the sorting conveyor 124 for further storage.

[0036] Once the food is placed over the conveyor 124, a motor connected to the conveyor 124 that provides movement to the conveyor 124 to translate the food. The conveyor 124 guides the food according to the detected type, towards a plurality of designated chambers 108 provided within the housing 101 for storage of the food. The sorting conveyor 124 works by using a belt integrated with actuators to automatically sort items based on predefined criteria, such as type, size, or weight. The moving conveyor 124 belt transports items from one point to another using the motor. When the motor is activated by the microcontroller, it turns the pulleys, which in turn causes the belt to move in a continuous loop. As food passes along the conveyor 124, sensing unit scan each item, detecting its specific characteristics, such as shape, color, or size. Based on this data, the microcontroller guides the gripper 111 to place items into different chambers 108.

[0037] Before placing the food into the chambers 108, the microcontroller actuates an articulated telescopic bar 119 having a cutting blade 120 at an end to cut the packaging of the food prior to filling in the chambers 108. The telescopic bar 119 is powered by the pneumatic arrangement associated with the device. The extension/retraction works in the same manner as telescopic rods 103 described earlier.

[0038] The cutting blade 120 is powered through a motor, activated by the microcontroller that provide motor's rotational energy to drive the cutting action. The motor is typically connected to a shaft that rotates the blade 120 at high speed. This rotation allows the blade 120 to slice through the food packaging when the telescopic bar 119 extends. As the bar 119 extends, the blade 120 moves into position, and its sharp edge, now rotating due to the motor, cuts through the packaging material. The motor ensures that the blade 120 maintains consistent cutting speed and force, providing a clean, efficient cut.

[0039] The bar 119 works in synchronisation with a robotic arm 121 in the housing 101 to hold the food item and assist the cutting blade 120 for cutting the packaging. The robotic arm 121 is powered by a motor that makes the arm 121 move by turning electrical energy into a spinning motion. When electricity flows through the motor, a magnetic field is created that pushes against magnets inside the motor, making the rotor inside the motor spin. This spinning motion is then passed through a shaft through gears to move the robotic arm 121 for gripping the food items securely.

[0040] Upon opening of the food packaging, the microcontroller re-actuates the gripper 111 to place the food within the dedicated chamber 108 through an opening.

[0041] The opening of the each of the chambers 108 is configured with a sliding door 109 to seal the food within the chamber 108 in view of preventing spoilage of food. The door 109 operates on a rail, allowing it to slide horizontally or vertically across the opening. When closed, the door 109 forms a tight seal around the edges of the chamber, preventing air, moisture, or contaminants from entering, which helps maintain the food's freshness. The sliding arrangement ensures smooth operation, allowing the door 109 to open for dispensing food or for maintenance purposes, and close securely when the chamber 108 is not in use.

[0042] Each of the chamber 108 is integrated with a Peltier unit for maintaining temperature of the food within predetermined temperature changes as per determined type by the sensing unit. Peltier unit works based on the principle of thermoelectric cooling, using the Peltier effect, where the flow of electric current through two different conductors creates a heat transfer effect. The unit consists of two types of semiconductor materials, one that absorbs heat and one that releases heat when electricity passes through them. When current flows through the Peltier unit, one side of the module becomes cold (the cooling side) and the other side becomes hot (the heating side). The cold side is placed in contact with the chamber 108 to absorb heat from the food, while the hot side is dissipated away from the chamber, usually through a heat sink.

[0043] The housing 101 is installed with an articulated artificial intelligence-based camera 107 for recording and processing images in a vicinity of the housing 101, to detect a type of animal near the housing 101. The articulated artificial intelligence-based camera 107 works in the same manner as the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 110 described earlier. A processor linked with the camera 107 processes the images that are analysed by the microcontroller to detect a type of animal near the housing 101.

[0044] Based on the detected presence of the animal, the microcontroller actuates a specific iris hole 114 provided at bottom of each of the chambers 108. The iris hole 114 dispenses the food within a tank 112 is disposed in the housing 101, underneath the chambers 108. The iris hole 114 works by using an arrangement that adjusts its size to control the flow of food from the tank 112 into the chambers 108.

[0045] The iris hole 114 consists of a set of adjustable segments that open or close, similar to the iris of an eye. When the microcontroller detects the presence of an animal, it sends a signal to actuate a motor connected to the iris. This action causes the iris to expand, increasing the size of the hole 114, and allowing the food from the tank 112 to flow into the chamber. Once the required amount of food is dispensed, the microcontroller closes the iris hole 114, reducing the size or completely sealing it, preventing further food release.

[0046] The tank 112 is installed on the housing 101 via a slider that allows the tank 112 to be positioned accurately within the housing 101 for optimal food dispensing. The slider consists of a track, along which the tank 112 slide back and forth. The tank 112 is mounted on the slider, allowing it to move horizontally or vertically depending on the design, ensuring precise alignment with the iris hole 114. This ensures that the tank 112 is properly aligned to dispense food into the correct chamber 108 when required.

[0047] The tank 112 is installed with a motorized flap 115 inside for grinding and mixing the food in the tank 112 to prepare an animal feed. The motorized flap 115 works by using mechanical motion to grind and mix the food inside the tank 112, ensuring a uniform and consistent mixture of ingredients for animal feed. The flap 115 is typically connected to a motor, which provides rotational or oscillating movement. As the motor turns, it drives the flap 115 to move through the food in the tank 112. The shape and design of the flap 115 allow it to stir, grind, or break down the food into smaller particles, depending on the type of feed and the desired consistency.

[0048] Once the feed is ready, the feed is transferred through a conduit 117 attached with the tank 112 to a nozzle 116 provided at an outer surface of the housing 101. The nozzle 116 is attached to the end of a conduit 117 connected to a feed tank 112, allowing the feed to travel through the conduit 117 under the influence of gravity or pressure. When the feed is ready to be dispensed, the nozzle 116 controls the release of the feed, often by narrowing the opening or creating a specific shape that directs the flow in a controlled manner.

[0049] The nozzle 116 further dispenses the feed onto a bowl attached with an articulated L-shaped telescopic link 118attached with the housing 101 for feeding of animals. The telescopic link 118is powered by the pneumatic arrangement associated with the device. The extension/retraction works in the same manner as telescopic rods 103 described earlier.

[0050] Once the feed is dispensed into the bowl, a speaker 106 provided on the housing 101 is activated to generate sounds to attract animals towards the housing 101. The speaker 106 works by converting electrical signals into sound waves that are heard by animals. The speaker 106 consists of a diaphragm, typically made of a flexible material, which is attached to a coil of wire placed in a magnetic field. When an electrical signal, generated by the microcontroller, is sent to the speaker 106, it passes through the coil, creating a magnetic force that causes the diaphragm to move. The movement of the diaphragm produces vibrations in the air, which we perceive as sound. The speaker 106 emits specific sounds designed to attract animals toward the housing 101.

[0051] The chambers 108 are also arranged with a water reservoir 122 is arranged within the housing 101, connected with a sprayer 123 for cleaning the chambers 108. The sprayer 123 is activated by the microcontroller and works by using pressurized water to create a fine mist or spray that effectively clean the surfaces within the chambers 108. The water reservoir 122 stores the water, which is then pumped through a connected tubing. When activated, a pump forces the water through the sprayer 123, where the pressure causes it to disperse in a controlled pattern. The sprayer 123 is strategically positioned to ensure even distribution of water throughout the chamber, removing food residue and contaminants from the surfaces.

[0052] In addition, a weight sensor is provided in each the chamber 108 to detect weight of the food. The weight sensor herein uses strain gauges, which are thin electrical resistors attached to a surface that deforms under pressure. When food is placed in the chamber, the weight creates a strain on the sensor's surface, causing the strain gauges to stretch or compress. This deformation alters the electrical resistance of the strain gauges, and the sensor’s circuit measures this change. The variation in resistance is then converted into a weight measurement, which is processed by the microcontroller to determine the amount of food.

[0053] The detected weight is display on a touch-enabled display unit 125 mounted on the housing 101 to allow the user to monitor the weight of stored food. When the weight sensor detects the food’s weight, it sends an electrical signal to the microcontroller that processes the data and translates it into a readable format (e.g., numerical weight) that is shown on the display unit 125. The display unit 125 works by converting electrical signals into visual output that the user is able to easily interpret.

[0054] Moreover, a battery (not shown) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes known as a cathode and an anode. A voltage is generated between the anode and cathode via oxidation/reduction and thus produces the electrical energy to provide to the device.

[0055] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the housing 101 as disclosed in the invention integrates a variety of components for efficient food handling and animal feeding. The device is powered on by pressing a switch button, which closes an electrical circuit and activates the microcontroller, allowing the device to begin its operations. A user interface, wirelessly linked to the microcontroller, allows users to input the location of residual food. This input is processed with the help of the GPS unit, enabling the device to navigate to the specified location for food collection. Underneath the housing 101, motorized omnidirectional wheels 102 are mounted, which are connected to telescopic rods 103 powered by a pneumatic arrangement. The proximity sensor detects when a user is near the housing 101, triggering the microcontroller to actuate a hinge 105 that positions a platform 104 for food placement. Once the food is placed on the platform 104, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 110, captures and processes the food’s characteristics. The LIDAR sensor measures the food's dimensions, while a gas sensor detects its quality and type. Based on these parameters, the microcontroller activates an articulated telescopic gripper 111 to securely grab the food and place it onto a sorting conveyor 124. The conveyor 124 then guides the food into designated chambers 108. Each chamber 108 has a sliding door 109 to seal in the food, preserving its freshness, and is equipped with a Peltier unit to maintain a specific temperature based on the food type. The device also includes a sprayer 123 for cleaning the chambers 108 and a weight sensor, which uses strain gauges to measure the food’s weight. This data is displayed on a touch-enabled display unit 125 mounted on the housing 101 for easy user monitoring. To attract animals to the device, the speaker 106 generates sounds designed to draw them closer. Finally, food is dispensed through the nozzle 116 onto the feeding bowl, ensuring that animals are fed directly from the device.

[0056] 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 food collection and animal feed preparation device, comprising:

i) a housing 101 having a plurality of motorised omnidirectional wheels 102 disposed underneath said housing 101 by means of telescopic rods 103 for a locomotion of said housing 101;
ii) a user interface is adapted to be installed with said computing unit of users associated with food outlets, to enable communication with a communication unit associated with said housing 101 for summoning said housing 101 for collection of residual food at an inputted location;
iii) a platform 104 attached with an opening at a front portion of said housing 101 by means of hinge 105, to enable users to place food onto said platform 104 for storing in said housing 101;
iv) an articulated artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 110s, installed in said housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said housing 101, in synchronisation with a sensing unit provided within said housing 101 detects dimensions, quality and type of said food placed on said platform 104, to actuate an articulated telescopic gripper 111 provided within said housing 101 to grab and position onto a sorting conveyor 124 disposed within said housing 101;
v) said conveyor 124 guides said food, in accordance with detected type, towards a plurality of designated chambers 108 provided within said housing 101 for storage of said food;
vi) a tank 112 is disposed in said housing 101, underneath said chambers 108, by means of a sliding unit 113, to receive said food via iris holes 114 provided at bottom of said chambers 108, with a motorized flap 115 installed within said housing 101 for grinding and mixing said food in said tank 112 to prepare an animal feed;
vii) a nozzle 116 provided at an outer surface of said housing 101, connected with said tank 112 via a conduit 117, for dispensing said feed;
viii) an articulated artificial intelligence-based came, installed on said housing 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said housing 101, to detect a type of animal near said housing 101, to selectively actuate said iris holes 114 to dispense specific food from said chambers 108 into said tank 112 for mixing, in accordance with said animal, to actuate said flap 115 to mix said food and said nozzle 116 to dispense said food; and
ix) an articulated L-shaped telescopic link 118attached with said housing 101, having a bowl at an end, for receiving said dispensed feed for feeding of animals.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a GPS (global positioning device) unit is installed within said housing 101 for enabling a navigation of said housing 101 to said inputted location for food collection.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a proximity sensor is installed on said housing 101 for detecting said user in front of said opening to actuate said hinge 105 to rotate said platform 104 into a horizontal position for placing of food.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an articulated telescopic bar 119 having a cutting blade 120 at an end, in synchronisation with a robotic arm 121 in said housing 101, removes packaging of said food prior to filling in said chambers 108.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing unit comprises a LIDAR (light detection and ranging) sensor for detecting dimensions of said food, and a gas sensor for detecting type and quality of said food.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of said chambers 108 is configured with a sliding door 109.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a Peltier unit is installed within each of said chambers 108 for maintaining temperature of said food as per determined type, within predetermined temperature changes.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a speaker 106 is provided on said housing 101 to generate sounds to attract animals towards said housing 101.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a water reservoir 122 is arranged within said housing 101, connected with a sprayer 123 provided with each of said chambers 108, for cleaning said chambers 108.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a weight sensor is provided in each said chamber 108 to detect weight of said food and display on a touch-enabled display unit 125 mounted on said housing 101.

Documents

Application Documents

# Name Date
1 202541038222-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
2 202541038222-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
3 202541038222-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
4 202541038222-PROOF OF RIGHT [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
5 202541038222-POWER OF AUTHORITY [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
6 202541038222-FORM-9 [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
7 202541038222-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
8 202541038222-FORM 18 [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
9 202541038222-FORM 1 [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
10 202541038222-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
11 202541038222-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
12 202541038222-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
13 202541038222-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
14 202541038222-DRAWINGS [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
15 202541038222-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21
16 202541038222-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [21-04-2025(online)].pdf 2025-04-21