COUNTERTOP COOKING ROBOT

Smart overview of the Invention

The countertop cooking robot is an advanced appliance designed to automate meal preparation using machine learning models. It is equipped with a micro dispensing system containing multiple pods with granular contents and a macro ingredient delivery system for larger ingredients. The robot features a pod rotation mechanism that positions selected pods above a pan to dispense contents like spices. Each pod has a rotation element that controls the amount of content dispensed with each rotation.

Components and Functionality

The cooking robot includes a stirrer equipped with at least one spatula, ensuring comprehensive contact with the pan's surface during each rotation cycle. A heating element beneath the pan, along with sensors around it, assists in cooking and monitoring the progress of recipes. Control circuitry integrates these components, regulating ingredient amounts and stirrer operations based on sensor data. The system's design allows for precise control over granular content through controlled rotations.

Technical Details

The robot employs specially adapted hardware and machine learning modules to execute recipes automatically. It includes a macro ingredient delivery system for larger items and a micro dispensing system for granular contents. The stirrer features an eccentric mechanism, allowing it to cover the entire pan surface efficiently. The appliance also uses a high-resolution camera to capture detailed images of the food, aiding in monitoring and adjustments during cooking.

Additional Features

To enhance functionality, optional elements like a light source and exhaust system are included. The camera module is strategically placed to capture the pan's surface and sides, aiding in identifying changes like sauce reduction. An exhaust system prevents vapor from obscuring the camera lens, while LED strips provide adequate lighting for image capture. These features ensure optimal operation of the appliance under various conditions.

Stirring Mechanism

The stirring mechanism employs an eccentric arm that rotates on an off-center orbital path, ensuring thorough ingredient mixing without bulk motion typical of single-axis stirrers. The system includes modular spatula attachments that can be adjusted based on recipe requirements. This design allows for effective mixing and even cooking by ensuring ingredients are uniformly coated and cooked from all sides.