Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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FOOD PREPARATION DEVICE
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate generally to a food preparation
device.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Currently, there exists dried foods that can be mixed with water
(e.g.,
hot water) in order to transform the food item from a dehydrated state into a
consumable state (e.g., hot noodle soup). In these products, the end user
generally
has limited choice other than to select the pre-packaged food item (e.g.
Raman,
oatmeal), add water and flavor packets. These prepackaged foods are typically
laden with preservatives to keep it in a dry state without refrigeration.
Typically
these dishes also contain high amounts of sodium and other unnatural
chemicals.
[0003] There also exists microwavable foods, such as frozen foods which can
be heated and served.
[0004] Coffee machines also exist that provide containers of coffee items
(e.g.,
type of coffee, flavored coffee, mocha etc.). The containers can be placed
into a
machine that is pre-loaded with water. The machine then brews the coffee using
the container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1A illustrates a front view of a food preparation device,
according
to an embodiment.
[0006] FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the food preparation device.
[0007] FIG. 1C illustrates a cross-section of the food preparation device
along
lines A-A of FIG. 1B, according to a top-down orientation, under an
embodiment.
[0008] FIG. 1D illustrates a cross-section of the food preparation device
along
lines B-B of FIG. 1A, according to a top-down orientation, under an
embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 1E illustrates the food extraction mechanism of FIG. 1A through
FIG. 1D in more detail, according to an embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 1F illustrates a cross-section of the food preparation device
along
lines A-A of FIG. 1B, according to an up-down orientation, under an
embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 1G illustrates a cross-section of the food preparation device
along
lines B-B of FIG. 1A, according to the up-down orientation, under an
embodiment.
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[0012] FIG. 1H illustrates an example of a food container for use with one
or
more examples.
[0013] FIG. 11 illustrates a manipulator for food preparation device,
according
to an embodiment.
[0014] FIG. A illustrates a side view of receptacle without manipulator,
according to an aspect.
[0015] FIG. 1K illustrates a heating surface of the receptacle, according
to an
embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a hardware diagram of a food preparation device,
according to one or more embodiments.
[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a system for controlling and utilizing a food
preparation system in conjunction with recipes of desired food items,
according to
one or more embodiments.
[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates a control system for a food preparation device,
according to one or more embodiments.
[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates a method for operating a food preparation
device,
according to one or more embodiments.
[0020] FIG 6 illustrates a method for utilizing a food preparation device
and
pre-packaged food containers to implement a recipe, according to one or more
embodiments.
[0021] These and other embodiments are described in greater detail below.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] Embodiments described herein include a food preparation device or
system which utilizes pre-packaged food containers to prepare a food item for
consumption. The food preparation device can utilize multiple food containers
in
combining different ingredients (condiments, liquid, solid, and gas) into a
meal or
dish. In particular, the food preparation device can cook (or heat/cool), mix,
manipulate and transform ingredients provided from food containers into a
final
consumable state.
[0023] In one aspect, the food preparation device can implement recipes
that
identify ingredients from food containers. For example, the food preparation
device
can download recipes from a network site, receive recipes from a user
operating a
computing device, or have a remotely located user conduct live telecooking
through the internet by manual or automated means. The processes performed by
the food preparation device can be determined based at least in part on the
recipe
in use.
[0024] Among other benefits, the food preparation device can use pre-
packaged food containers and programmatically controlled mechanisms to
automate many of the steps that would otherwise be needed to prepare a meal or
dish. For example, an embodiment enables a user to cook a meal in accordance
with a recipe by (i) downloading a recipe onto the device, and (ii) inserting
food
containers that correspond with specific associated ingredients for the
recipe.
Subsequent processes for introducing ingredients to a cooking dish, heating,
flipping, cutting, injecting, pressing, and stirring can be performed
programmatically and/or substantially automatically (e.g., performed with
little or
no user action, such as the user pushing a button to perform a task/multiple
tasks
such as pouring or heating).
[0025] In an embodiment, a food preparation device includes a housing, an
extraction mechanism, a receptacle, an ingredient-manipulator arm, a
heating/cooling mechanism, and a processing resource. The housing includes an
opening 115 that is dimensioned to receive a food container of a pre-
determined
dimension. The extraction mechanism is provided with the opening 115 to
extract a
food item from each of the one or more containers. The preparation receptacle
receives the food item extracted from each of the one or more containers. The
heating/cooling mechanism heats/cools the receptacle when the food items are
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received. The processing resource identifies a recipe, and determines a set of
food
containers that include food items specified in the recipe. The processing
resource
can also verify that the set of food containers are correctly positioned in
order at
the opening 115 of the housing. The processing resource can also control the
extraction mechanism in extracting food items specified in the recipe from
each
container in the set of food containers. Additionally, the processing resource
can
control heating/cooling mechanism in heating/cooling the preparation
receptacle
with the specified food items from the recipe.
[0026] One or more embodiments described herein can provide for methods,
techniques and actions performed by a computing device are performed
programmatically, or as a computer-implemented method. Programmatically
means through the use of code, or computer-executable instructions. A
programmatically performed step may or may not be automatic.
[0027] One or more embodiments described herein may be implemented using
programmatic modules or components. A programmatic module or component may
include a program, a subroutine, a portion of a program, or a software or a
hardware component capable of performing one or more stated tasks or
functions.
As used herein, a module or component can exist on a hardware component
independently of other modules or components. Alternatively, a module or
component can be a shared element or process of other modules, programs or
machines. A programmatic module can also be initiated or executed remotely via
the internet (telecooking).
[0028] Furthermore, one or more embodiments described herein may be
implemented through instructions that are executable by one or more
processors.
These instructions may be carried on a computer-readable medium.
[0029] FOOD PREPARATION DEVICE
[0030] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate a food preparation device, according
to
some embodiments. More specifically, a food preparation device 100 is able to
perform, and thus automate many of the steps needed to prepare a food item,
such as a meal, a dish, or cooked food item. Furthermore, in providing a
prepared
food item, the device 100 can cook, mix and manipulate/transform ingredients.
Among other advantages, the device 100 enables users to prepare meals or
dishes
with minimal user interaction. In this way, the device 100 provides
convenience to
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users, and further enables those individuals who are unable to cook (e.g.,
elderly,
handicapped) to prepare meals with consideration for ingredients and recipes.
[0031] As described by examples provided below, the device 100 can be
implemented to prepare a meal or dish using pre-packaged food containers. By
way of example, the food containers can retain food items, which can form the
ingredients of a prepared meal or dish. Depending on implementation, the food
items retained in the food containers can be raw, partially cooked, or cooked.
The
device 100 enables individuals to use multiple pre-packaged food containers in
order to cook and transform ingredients provided through the food containers.
[0032] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B represent an exterior front and side view of
device
100 respectively, according to an embodiment. The device 100 includes a
housing
110 having a base 112 and a top segment 114. A bottom plate 130 can extend
from the base 112. A food receptacle 140 can be positioned on the bottom plate
130. A manipulator 138 can extend from the top segment 114 into the
receptacle.
[0033] The base 112 is dimensioned to retain pre-packaged food containers.
In particular, the pre-packaged food containers can be dimensioned and
structured
to be received within an opening 115 in the bottom interior of the base 112
(see
FIG. 1C and FIG. 1D), or within an opening 115 in the top interior of the top
segment 114 (see FIG. 1F and 1G). In one implementation shown by FIG. 1C
through FIG. 1E, the top segment 114 can provide a mechanism to extract and
dispose food items from the pre-packaged containers into the receptacle 140.
In
another implementation shown by FIG. 1F and 1G, the top segment 114 provides a
mechanism to lower the pre-packaged containers into the interior of the base
112.
As an alternative or addition, the device 100 can specify or use opened food
containers. For example, the device 100 can be provided with instructions for
the
user on how to open or use food containers 10 before use.
[0034] The bottom plate 130 can include a heater 132. The heater 132 can
heat the receptacle and its contents to a temperature that is suitable for
cooking.
For example, the heater 132 can heat the cooking surface 144 (see FIG. 11) of
the
receptacle 140 to a temperature that in a range between, for example, 200-450
F.
Such temperatures can be sufficient to cook all types of food. Alternatively,
the
bottom plate 130 can heat the receptacle 140 to warming temperatures under 200
F. In one implementation, the heater 132 can have multiple coils that can
individually control specific temperatures in different areas of the bottom
plate 130.
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For example, when needing to cook vegetables and meat at different
temperatures
on the same receptacle 140, the temperatures of the left side of the bottom
plate
130 can be controlled at 400 degrees Fahrenheit by the associated heating
coils,
while the right side can be controlled at 200 degrees Fahrenheit by its
associated
coils. Eventually, foods can be mixed by the manipulator 138 to make the final
dish.
[0035] In a variation, the bottom plate 130 can also include a cooler (not
shown). The cooler can serve to chill foods, either as part of the food
preparation
step or post preparation (e.g., preservation).
[0036] The manipulator 138 can be motorized to swivel, spin or otherwise
move within the receptacle 140. An embodiment provides for the manipulator 138
to include a base segment 135, a joint 137, an extension 139, and an end
segment
133
[0037] BOTTOM UP ORIENTATION
[0038] Examples described herein include multiple configurations in which
food
preparation device 100 receives food containers, extracts food items from the
containers, distributes the food items into the receptacle 140, and further
manipulates, heats and cooks the food items within receptacle. FIG. 1C, 1D and
1E
illustrate a bottom-up orientation in which a food receptacle is received via
a
bottom opening 115 and directed upwards to a point above the receptacle 140,
at
which point food extraction takes place and food items are extracted from the
containers and dispersed into the receptacle 140.
[0039] In more detail, FIG. 1C illustrates a cross-section of device 100
along
lines A-A of FIG. 1B. As shown, the base 112 includes the opening 115. In an
example of FIG. 1C, multiple food containers 10 are retained. The containers
10
can be provided and combined according to a recipe to prepare a food item,
such
as a meal or dish. Accordingly, the containers 10 can correspond to
ingredients of a
meal or dish. In an example shown, the containers 10 are aligned vertically.
In
variations, the food containers 10 can be aligned horizontally. Still further,
the
containers 10 can be aligned circuitously. The device 100 includes mechanisms
for
individually introducing the food containers 10 into the receptacle 140 one at
a
time or more than one at a time.
[0040] Further, in an example of FIG. 1C, a movement mechanism moves the
containers 10 upward to a point in the top segment 114 where food items within
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the container can be extracted and disposed into the receptacle 140. In one
embodiment, the movement mechanism corresponds to a conveyer system,
including a pair of opposing conveyers 142 that lift the individual containers
10
from the bottom, upwards towards the top segment 114, where extraction of the
food item takes place. Each conveyer 142 can include a track member 145, with
support structures 147 to support individual containers, while the support
structures 147 are moved upward or downward by the conveyers 142. In this way,
the plate structures 147 can move upward or downward with motion provided by
the track member 145. The track member 145 can be equipped with a motor 149
in order to permit movement of the plate structure 147.
[0041] FIG. 1D illustrates a cross-section of device 100 along lines B-B
of FIG.
1A. In the example shown, the base 112 is shown to house multiple food
containers 10. The top segment 114 retains the container 10 that is being
extracted. The food container 10 is pushed upward into the top segment 114.
The
conveyers 142 push the containers 10 upward to engage an extraction mechanism.
The extraction mechanism can include a container interface 176, which
interfaces
with a surface of the food container 10 to open the container. By way of
example,
the container interface 176 can include a sharp or pointed structure that
punctures
the top surface of the container 10. The conveyer 142, or an additional motion
mechanism can push the container 10 against the container interface 176 to
cause
the top surface of the container to partially open (e.g., puncture).
[0042] In one implementation, the top segment 114 includes an outlet 174
that receives food items extracted from the food container 10, and dispenses
the
food items into the receptacle 140. Additionally, in one implementation, the
top
segment 114 can include components for providing a food extraction mechanism.
In the example provided, the food extraction mechanism includes a vacuum pump
166 and an injector 165. The vacuum pump 166 generates a vacuum through the
outlet 174, so that food items are sucked from the container 10. The vacuum
pump
166 can be extended into the container 10 through the container interface 176.
[0043] The injector 165 can pressurize and/or heat liquid or air. A
conduit 179
can extend from the injector 165 to the container interface 176 in order to
introduce the air/liquid into the container 10, and cause the food items to
push out
into the outlet 174. A reservoir 171 can be provided in order to receive
liquids such
as water, for extraction, mixing or introduction into the receptacle 140.
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[0044] With further reference to FIG. 1D, a manipulator 138 can extend from
the top segment 114 of the housing 110. The manipulator 138 is coupled to a
motor 169 so that it is motorized to swivel, stir or move to mix food items
dispensed in the receptacle 140. The manipulator 138 can include the joint
137, so
that the extension 139 can pivot relative to the base segment 135.
[0045] FIG. 1D also illustrates a processor 178 for controlling mechanisms
of
the device 100. In some embodiments, the processor 178 can implement a system
such as described with FIG. 3 or FIG. 4. Additionally, in some embodiments,
the
processor 178 can implement a process such as described with FIG. 5 or with
FIG.
6.
[0046] With further reference to FIG. 1D, once the food item is dispensed
from
the container 10, the container 10 can be stacked together and removed using a
door 173. The door 173 can be positioned in a rear or side façade of the
housing
110. By way of example, the door 173 can be hinged to open outward. In one
implementation, the ejection of the used container 10 is automatic, and in
response to the food item being dispensed from the container 10. In such an
implantation, an ejection mechanism 175, such as a motorized and/or spring-
biased push rod, can be used to force the container 10 out of the housing via
the
door 173. In a variation, the container 10 can be manually removed by a user.
As
an alternative, an alert can be sounded or displayed to indicate when the user
should remove the container 10 from the housing 110.
[0047] FIG. 1E illustrates the food extraction mechanism of FIG. 1A through
FIG. 1D in more detail, according to an embodiment. A food extraction
mechanism
180 includes (i) conduit 170 which provides air/liquid injection, which forces
one of
air or liquid into the container 10, and/or (ii) vacuum interface 183, which
generates the vacuum to draw food items out through the outlet 174. The
injector
165 (see FIG. 1D) can heat or pressurize air/liquid through the conduit 170
and
into the container 10, and the vacuum pump 166 can generate the vacuum to draw
the food items from the container 10.
[0048] TOP DOWN ORIENTATION
[0049] In variations, food preparation device 100 can include alternative
configurations for the manner in which the food containers is positioned,
moved
and acted upon to distribute food items. In one implementation, FIG. 1F and
FIG.
1G illustrate a top-down orientation, as a variation to an implementation of
FIG. 1C
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and FIG. 1D. With reference to FIG. 1F, the opening 115 can be provided with
the
top segment 114. For example, the opening 115 can be provided as a top lid of
the
top segment 114. The conveyers 142 can operate to lower the individual
containers
from the top segment 114 downward to an extraction point that is in the middle
or
bottom end of the base 112.
[0050] With reference to FIG. 1F and FIG. 1G, the extraction mechanism can
be implemented with container interface 176 engaged to unseal an edge or
periphery. In FIG. 1G, for example, the container interface 176 can engage a
vertical edge of the container 10, and the container 10 can be structured so
that is
unsealable from the corresponding edge. In one implementation, food container
10
can be pre-opened from one side. In a variation, a mechanism such as the
container interface 176 can operate to eliminate one side of the food
container
while it is inside base 112. The vacuum pump 166 can be positioned to draw
food
items out of the container 10 from the unsealed edge of the container 10.
[0051] With further reference to FIG. 1F and FIG. 1G, a lift 190 can be
provided as a base for the container 10 that is at the extraction point. The
lift 190
can include, for example, an upper member 193 that can pivot upward from a
horizontal base segment 195. This can cause the container 10 to tip forward.
The
tilting facilitates the extraction of food items from the container 10 at the
extraction point. In order to enable the container 10 at the extraction point
to tilt,
the container 10 at extraction point may need additional clearance with
respect to
an adjacent container. The additional clearance can enable the lift 190 to
tilt the
container 10 by some measure or degree forward.
[0052] In one variation, the container 10 at the extraction point can also
traverse outward over the receptacle 140. For example, the upper member 193
can slide outward over the receptacle 140, and further enable tilting and/or
vacuum extraction.
[0053] Still further, the container 10 at the extraction point can be
extended
partially outward from the base 112 so that it is partially above the
receptacle 140.
The lift 190 can slide or otherwise move the container 10 at the extraction
point
outward over the receptacle. In a variation, another structure such as an
ejection
mechanism can push the container 10 outward. After the food container is
extended over the receptacle 140 it can be rotated from 90-270 degrees in a
swivel motion until the ingredients are emptied into the receptacle 140. This
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process can be repeated every time a new ingredient needs to be added to the
receptacle 140.
[0054] Thus, examples such as shown by FIG. 1F and FIG. 1G illustrate
alternative implementations for orienting containers, and implementing
extraction
of food items from such containers. While examples of FIG. 1C-1G illustrate
variations in arranging in extracting containers in a top-down and bottom up
orientation, other configurations can also be employed in accordance with
embodiments described herein. For example, food items from the container 10 at
the extraction point can be scooped out of the container by the jointed food
manipulator and placed into the receptacle 140.
[0055] Still further, while described examples utilize vacuum and/or
injection
for extracting the food item from the container 10, variations can provide for
use of
other types of mechanisms. For example, in one implementation, the top segment
114 or base 112 can be provided with a scooper to scoop the food items from
the
containers 10. In still another variation, the top segment 114 or base 112 can
include a tray that can flip 90 degrees or more in order to dump the food item
out.
In another variation, the jointed food manipulator 138 can serve as the
scooper
and scoop or push the food items from the containers 10.
[0056] FOOD CONTAINER
[0057] FIG. 1H illustrates an example of a food container 10 for use with
one
or more examples. The food container 10 can retain food/ingredients in a raw
state, partially-cooked state or fully-cooked state. The food item of an
individual
container 10 can correspond to an ingredient(s) that can be further cooked,
manipulated and transformed with other ingredients (provided from other food
containers 10). In FIG. 1F, container 10 includes a package 8 having a top
surface
12, a bottom base 14 and sidewalls 15. The package 8 can include dimensions of
length (L), height (H) or width (not shown). The dimensions of the package 8
can
be selected so that the package 8 can fit into the opening 115 of the housing
110
of device 100 (see FIG. 1D). The container 10 may also have a perforated area
for
insertion of an edge or other tool provided through the container interface
176.
[0058] In one aspect, the package 8 includes a machine code identifier 18
provided on a sidewall 15. The machine code identifier 18 can provide one or
more
of the following: (i) an identifier of the container 10, (ii) identification
about the
contents of the food container 10, (iii) information about how the contents of
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food container 10 are to be used (e.g., heat to certain temperature, etc.),
(iv) date
of expiration of the ingredients in the food container 10, (v) amount of
ingredient
in food container 10, and/or (vi) place where ingredients are sourced from
and/or
purchased from. In another aspect, the package 8 is equipped with a radio-
frequency identifier (RFID) tag. A compatible RFID reader (not shown) on the
device 100 can detect information (e.g. container identifier, food item
contained)
about the food container 10.
[0059] FIG. 11 illustrates the manipulator 138 for food preparation device
100,
according to an embodiment. In more detail, manipulator 138 includes base
segment 135, the joint 137, and one or more end segments 133. The end segment
133 can be detachable, so that different kinds of end segments 133 can be
attached and incorporated into the manipulator 138.
[0060] The manipulator 138 is attached to the top segment 114 by a motor
149 and a connection mechanism 177. The base segment 135 can rotate
horizontally, for example, in a 360 degree motion in conjunction with the
control
mechanism 177. The jointed food manipulator 138 can have multiple end segments
133, which can pivot about multiple joints 137 to provide a greater degree of
motion within the receptacle 140. The joints 137 can each have an associated
motor 149, which allows for locking actions of the joints 137 at specific
angles to
strengthen the ability of the jointed food manipulator 138 to manipulate the
ingredients (e.g. cutting, scooping, flipping, pressing). The joints 137 and
extensions may also consist of a spring 101 to prevent over exertion of force
against the receptacle.
[0061] In one implementation, the end segment 133 can be in the form of a
spatula, knife, or spoon, and selected by the user for a particular use. The
manipulator 138 can position itself so that it can automatically attach and/or
detach each end segment 133 through a twisting and locking motion. These
attachments can be incorporated via slots that are readily accessible in base
112.
[0062] In operation, the manipulator 138 can be attached to motor 149, and
further be provided with a connection mechanism 177 that enables movement of
the base segment 135 in multiple degrees of freedom. For example, the
combination of the connection mechanism 177 and the motor 149 can enable the
base segment 135 to (i) translate in two lateral directions (X, Y) with
respect to the
receptacle 140, (ii) rotate about the connection mechanism 177, and/or (iii)
adjust
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depth (Z) with respect to the receptacle 138. Additionally, the end segment
133
can pivot about the joint 137 to provide additional freedom of movement. In a
variation, the manipulator 138 may also fold itself and retract to the top
segment
114 while idle.
[0063] The specific type, intensity and degree of movement can be
controlled
by the processor 178 of the device 100. The user can interface with the
processor
178 in order to specify a setting for the action that the manipulator 138 is
to
perform. In a variation, such as described with an example of FIG. 3, the
processor
178 can implement recipe operations, and the setting of the manipulator 138
can
be programmatically determined from the recipe.
[0064] FIG. 13 illustrates a side view of receptacle 140 without
manipulator
138, according to an aspect. The receptacle 140 can include sidewalls 148 and
the
bottom cooking surface 144, which rests on bottom segment 130 and heater 132.
Various features environments through the receptacle. For example, in one
implementation, the receptacle 140 includes a steamer, having a reservoir 150
that
heats and steams a cooking chamber 151. The sidewalls 148 can extend partially
or completely to the top segment 114. The interior of the receptacle 140 can
be
segmented to include one or more barriers 155. The barrier 155 can be partial
and
separate cooking surfaces on the bottom of the receptacle. Alternatively, the
barrier 155 can separate the interior of the receptacle 140 so as to provide
different cooking environments (e.g., steamer and skillet). In some
variations, the
base 112 and/or receptacle 140 can include a lid (not shown) to enable
pressurized
cooking.
[0065] FIG. 1K illustrates heating surface 144 of the receptacle 140,
according
to an embodiment. In particular, FIG. 1K illustrates an area of coverage for
manipulator 138, when operating within receptacle 140. As shown, the end
segment 133 can operate to cover a substantial portion of the area of the
receptacle 140. Among other benefits, the manipulator 138 can provide a
thorough
mixing, stirring, cutting, slicing, basting, or swirling motion (as determined
by
setting or selection) that engages food item in both center and corner regions
of
the receptacle 140.
[0066] In a variation, the heating surface 144 can be segmented to provide
barriers for the preparation of combined food items. For example, some dishes
can
incorporate two items which require different cooking temperature or
manipulation
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processes. Furthermore, the barriers can maintain separation of the food items
as
part of the preparation process. For example, raw meat can be separated from
other foods that are being cooked at low temperatures.
[0067] With reference to examples above, the structure of the receptacle
140
can vary depending on design and implementation. The receptacle 140 can be
provided with additional sidewall structures to enclose the container during
the
cooking process (e.g., prevent spillage when the food manipulator 138
operates).
Still further, in some variations, a lid can optionally be provided to enable
pressurized cooking.
[0068] Still further, in some variations, the heater 132 can be replaced
with a
cooler or chiller. For example, the bottom plate 130 can be replaced by a
component that cools the temperature rather than heats the temperature. Still
further, the receptacle itself can include additional structures that enable
refrigeration or cooling.
[0069] HARDWARE DESCRIPTION
[0070] FIG. 2 illustrates a hardware diagram of a food preparation device,
according to one or more embodiments. In particular, a food preparation device
200 can optionally be implemented using, for example, structures and features
such as shown with examples of FIG. 1A through FIG. 1B, and variations
provided
with FIG. 1C-FIG. 1E or FIG. 1F-FIG. 1G. With reference to FIG. 2, the food
preparation device 200 includes a processor 210, a display 220, a set of input
mechanisms 230, one or more wireless interfaces 202 (local), 204 (network),
and
memory resources 250. Additionally, the device 200 can include a food
extraction
mechanism 270, a heater 280, and a manipulator 290. In some variations, the
device 200 includes a camera 222, such as a webcam, which communicates with
the processor 210. As described below, the camera 222 can enable telecooking
functionality, and or communicate images of the state of the food preparation
device 100 to a remote user.
[0071] The display 220 can be implemented as, for example, a liquid crystal
display ("LCD"), touch screen on the food preparation device 200. The
processor
210 can communicate with the display 220 in order to provide feedback to the
user, as well as to prompt the user for input. The feedback can include, for
example, information that specifies what the processor 210 understands the
user
input to be, and/or specific information about the state of the device or its
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functions. Among other aspects, the processor 210 can output display content
221
through the display 220. By way of example, the display content 221 can
identify
what food item is being prepared, and/or a state of the food item including,
for
example, an amount of time remaining for the food item to be cooked, or steps
that are yet to be performed before the food item can be prepared. In
variations,
the display output of the processor 210 can be communicated to another
computer, such as a user tablet or laptop, via one of the network interfaces
202,
204.
[0072] The input mechanisms 230 can include, for example, a button, button
set, or a touch screen or touch surface functionality. Additionally, various
alternative forms of input mechanisms can be included with implementations
described herein, including input mechanisms that provide a keyboard, voice
input,
or form of tactile/manual input (e.g. provide for more or less salt, how well-
done
meat should be).
[0073] The processor 210 can communicate with a network site or service
using one or more wireless communication interfaces 202, 204. For example, the
wireless communication interface 202, 204 can enable communications under one
or more of 802.11(s), 802.11(b), 802.11(g) or 802.11(n) (collectively "Wi-
Fi"), or
through cellular transmissions. As an addition or alternative, the wireless
communication interface 202 can enable a local wireless link, such as through
a
Bluetooth protocol to other devices (e.g., mobile devices operated by a user).
[0074] In operation, the processor 210 can control operation of components
that comprise or correspond to the food extraction component 270, the heater
280,
and/or the manipulator 290. In particular, the processor 210 can select the
particular extraction component used to extract the food item from the food
container 10. For example, with reference to FIG. 1D, the processor 210 can
select
whether the vacuum pump 166 is used to draw the food item out of the container
10, whether the injector 165 is used to push the food item out, or whether a
combination of the vacuum or injector are used. Still further, the processor
210 can
control an amount of food that is extracted from the container 10. The type of
extraction used can be selected based on, for example, the contents of the
food
container 10 being extracted.
[0075] The heater 280 can be implemented as part of, for example, bottom
plate 130. In one implementation, the heater 280 can be provided as an
inductive
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or electrical heating surface that can heat the receptacle 140 to a suitable
temperature to cook food such as meats or vegetables (e.g., 250-450 F). The
processor 210 can control the temperature and duration in which the heater 280
is
provided. In a variation, the processor 210 can control multiple heaters
independently, so as to create different temperature environments within the
receptacle. As feedback, the processor 210 can receive temperature input 281
from
sensors 284 provided within the receptacle 140 (FIG. 1A-1B and FIG. 1C). In
this
way, the temperature sensors can provide feedback to the processor 210, and
the
processor 210 can use the feedback to regulate the heater 280.
[0076] The processor 210 can also control the manipulator 290. In some
embodiments, the manipulator 290 can be implemented using the manipulator
138, manipulator motor 169 and connection mechanism 177, such as shown by an
example of FIG. 1G. The control parameters that can be used for the
manipulator
290 include one or more of (i) type of mixing (e.g., stirring, heavy mixing,
swirling), (ii) degree of mixing (e.g., quick, slow, strong etc.), (iii)
duration of
mixing, (iv) time pattern for mixing (e.g., stir and pause, repeat), and/or
(v) end
segment 133 that is used during each time interval.
[0077] In controlling the food extraction mechanism 270, the heater 280
and/or the manipulator 290, the processor 210 can receive input from one or
more
of multiple sources. For example, the processor 210 can download a recipe from
a
network site using the network interface 202, receive the recipe from the user
using the wireless device interface 204 (e.g., user uses mobile device and
local
network to wirelessly transmits the recipe to the food preparation device
200), or
to an associated user device (e.g., laptop, via one of the interfaces). As
described
with examples of FIG. 3 through FIG. 6, the input can correspond to recipe
input.
The processor 210 can parse or otherwise analyze the recipe in order to
determine
information, including (i) which containers 10 of food items are needed to
implement the recipe, (ii) specific times after commencement when each
container
is added, (iii) temperature settings of the receptacle, which can be used to
control the heater 280, and/or (iv) mixing settings, which can be used to
control
the manipulator 290.
[0078] The processor 210 can store recipes in the memory resources 250.
Additionally, the memory resources 250 can store instructions and data
("recipe
data 251") for correlating recipe information to parameters for using and
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controlling the device 200. In an embodiment, the memory resources 250 can
store instructions for parsing recipes for food items and/or settings (e.g.,
temperature settings) ("recipe analysis 253"), and/or for correlating food
items
(e.g., butter, olive oil, chicken breast, rice etc.) to food containers 10
that supply
specified food items or their equivalents ("container correlation 255"). By
way of
example, the memory resources 250 can store data that correlates "cut chicken
breast" to a container that includes "chopped chicken," or "butter" to "olive
oil".
The processor 210 can use the data stored in the memory to identify what food
containers 10 are needed for a particular recipe, and further to determine the
settings of the heater 280 and/or manipulator 290 based on the specifications
of
the recipe.
[0079] PROGRAMMATIC ARCHITECTURE
[0080] FIG. 3 illustrates a system for controlling and utilizing a food
preparation system in conjunction with recipes of desired food items,
according to
one or more embodiments. A system 300 such as described with FIG. 3 can be
implemented using a hardware system such as provided with an example of FIG.
2.
Furthermore, system 300 can be implemented on the food preparation device such
as shown and described with examples of FIG. 1A through FIG. 11.
[0081] In more detail, system 300 includes a user interface 310, a network
interface 320, one or more device interfaces 330 and a preparation module 350.
The user interface 310 can include functional components that enable the user
to
provide input through the display 220 and/or input mechanisms 230.
Alternatively,
the user interface 310 can be generated and outputted by the processor 210 to
an
associated display device connected via, for example, a particular network
interface
202, 204. In some implementations, the user interface 310 can include
functionality in which the user is prompted to enter information, including
recipe
input 302, through for example, the display 220 (FIG. 2). The preparation
module
350 can receive recipe input 302 from either of the user interface 310 (e.g.,
the
user can manually enter a recipe), network interface 320 (e.g., system 300 can
be
triggered to download a recipe from a network site or service) and/or the
device
interface 330 (e.g., system 300 can communicate with the user device to
receive
some or all of the recipe).
[0082] Still further, preparation module 350 can have access to a recipe
collection that is locally stored, such as for example, on the memory
resources 250
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(see FIG. 2). In such an implementation, the recipe input 302 can correspond
to
the user entering, through the user interface 310, a selection of a pre-stored
recipe. Still further, the recipe input 302 can include input that the user
enters to
alter an existing recipe (e.g., a recipe that is pre-stored, or a recipe
deadest
downloaded from a network site). For example, the recipe input 302 can include
the substitution or replacement of the recipe item (e.g., olive oil from
butter).
[0083] The preparation module 350 can include logic to parse a recipe (as
provided or specified with recipe input 302) for ingredients. The preparation
module 350 can cross-reference a list of ingredients, including identifiers
331 for
specific ingredients, with food containers 10 that include the same
ingredients or
their equivalents. In one embodiment, the preparation module 350 uses a
container data store 335 in referencing the ingredient identifier 331 for a
food
container identifier 352.
[0084] Additionally, the preparation module 350 can determine, for a given
recipe 357, preparation parameters 359 that are recommended or needed by the
recipe 357. The preparation parameters can further be determined in the
context
of determined food containers 10. For example, recipe items may be referenced
against predetermined preparation parameters for such items, and the
preparation
parameters can be provided in the context of the food containers 10. Thus,
while
the recipe may call for raw chicken to cook at 350 F, the recipe data store
355 can
specify that to cook raw chicken, a corresponding raw chicken food container
needs
to be heated at 370 for a specified duration. Likewise, while the recipe may
call
for a cooked chicken, the identified food container 10 may correspond to a
partially
cooked chicken, or alternatively to a fully cooked chicken that is to be
warmed. In
such an instance, the recipe data store 355 can identify alternative cooking
parameters 359 (temperature, heating) for the particular food container 10
(e.g.,
one with cooked chicken) that is to substitute for the recipe item.
Furthermore, the
recipe data store 355 can specify a sequence in which the food item of the
identified food containers 10 are introduced into the cooking receptacle
(e.g., see
receptacle 140) of the food preparation device.
[0085] The preparation module 350 can also determine the sequence or order
in which food containers 10 are introduced into the receptacle 140 (see FIG.
1A
and FIG. 1B). For example, with reference to the food preparation device 100
of
FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, the opening of the base 112 (whether provided in top-down
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orientation, bottom-up orientation or other) can receive food containers 10
determined for a particular recipe in a particular order that dictates the
sequence in
which the food item of that container 10 is introduced into the receptacle
140. The
preparation module 350 can communicate the sequencing or order of the
individual
food containers 10 to a user who places the food containers 10 in the opening
115.
For example, the user interface 310 can be used to display an order for the
placement of food containers 10 into the opening 115 of the housing 110. In
some
variations, the order or sequencing of the food items can also be altered from
that
specified by the recipe based on the variations provided by the determined
food
containers 10 for those food items. By way of example, if the recipe specifies
for
raw chicken that is introduced early into the food preparation process, the
recipe
data store 355 can specify that a food container 10 containing fully cooked
chicken
(as a determined substitute) is to be introduced into the cooking receptacle
after
all of the other food items of the recipe.
[0086] The preparation module 350 can include logic to verify that the user
has properly inserted food containers 10 for a given recipe. The verification
can
include determining that the user has inserted containers 10 in the correct
order.
For example, in one implementation, logic corresponding to container reader
336
can be utilized with a camera or optical recognition component to read machine
code or other identifier as provided on individual food containers 10 that are
to be
used for the given recipe. In a variation, the system 300 includes an RFID
detector
that detects and identifies an identifier/code of each food container 10. In
still
another variation, the preparation module 350 can have the user manually
specify
identifiers for individual food containers 10 of the recipe as a user places
the
containers 10 into the opening 115 of the housing 110. The preparation module
350 can verify, or check that the proper food containers 10 are being inserted
into
the opening 115 of the housing 110. Additionally, the preparation module 350
can
verify that the ordering of the food containers 10 is correct given the
requirements
of the recipe and/or the food containers 10 being utilized.
[0087] The preparation module 350 can generate output for the user
interface
310. In one embodiment, the output 361 can specify what food containers 10 the
user will need in order to implement a specific recipe. The output 361 can
also
specify the order or sequence of the food containers 10, so as to prompt the
user
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to position the food containers 10 in the correct order within the opening 115
of
the base 112.
[0088] The preparation module 350 can also generate control parameters 365
for the use of the components needed to cook the food in the containers 10.
Specific examples of control parameters include the temperature that the
heater
280 is to rise to, as well as a duration for which that temperature is to be
maintained. Examples contemplate that one recipe can utilize multiple
temperatures, so that the cooking temperature (as maintained in the receptacle
140) may fluctuate by intent during the cooking process, and further different
durations of heating may apply for different temperatures. As such, control
parameters 365 can specify temperature, timing, and other parameters, such as
the need for water or other liquids. The control parameters can be specific to
components that include food extraction mechanism 270 (see FIG. 2), the heater
280 (see FIG. 2) and/or the manipulator 290 (see FIG. 2). The control
parameters
365 (e.g., temperature, duration of heating) can also be determined from the
rest
of the recipe 357, such as provided by the recipe data store 355.
[0089] FIG. 4 illustrates a control system for food preparation device,
according to one or more embodiments. A system 400 such as described with an
example of FIG. 4 can be implemented using a hardware system such as provided
with FIG. 2. Furthermore, system 400 can be implemented on the food
preparation
device such as shown and described with FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B.
[0090] With reference to FIG. 4, a controller 410 can be implemented on the
processor 210 in there is a controlled components that correspond to one or
more
of (i) food extraction mechanism 270 (see FIG. 2), (ii) heater 280(see FIG.
2),
and/or (iii) manipulator 290 (see FIG. 2). The system 400 can include logic
for
each of food extraction 420, heater 430, and manipulator 440. The food
extraction
logic 420 can include, for example, firmware, integrated circuits and/or
programming (e.g. provided on the processor 210) to control operations of
components that perform extraction (e.g., injector 165, vacuum pump 166 of
FIG.
1). In an example provided by FIG. 4, control parameters 365 can be provided
to
the controller 410 from, for example, the preparation module 350. The control
parameters 365 can specify parameters for extracting, heating and/or food
items
of the food container 10.
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[0091] The controller 410 can signal extraction control 411 for the food
extraction logic 420, which in turn controls the mechanical output of the food
extraction mechanism 270 (e.g., injector 165, vacuum pump 166 of FIG. 1). The
extraction control 411 can select which extraction mechanism is used (e.g.
vacuum, injection, or tilting food container 10 at a specific angle). In
variations,
the extraction control 411 can also specify the magnitude of the extraction
(e.g.,
extra vacuum for solid food), or other parameters (e.g., heat injection
liquid).
[0092] As still another variation, the extraction control 411 can specify
an
amount of food item to be extracted. The determination of the amount that is
to be
extracted can be based on, for example, the recipe. For example, the food
container 10 can retain two ounces of chopped tomatoes, and the recipe in use
may call for one ounce of chopped tomatoes to be used. The extraction control
411
can specify that half of the food items are to be extracted. The user can then
refrigerate or maintain the other half of the food container 10 for subsequent
use.
[0093] The heater logic 430 can include, for example, firmware, integrated
circuits and/or software (e.g., which can be provided on the processor 210) to
control the operations of the heater 280. In an example described with FIG. 1A
through FIG. 1H, the heater 280 can be implemented through the bottom plate
130, which engages and heats the receptacle 140. The controller 410 can signal
temperature control 413 to the heater logic 430. In response to receiving
temperature control 413, the heater logic 430 can manage the output of the
heater
280. For example, in an implementation in which the heater 280 is an
electrical
heater, the heater logic 430 can increase/decrease current through a resistive
element in order to increase or decrease the temperature of the heater 280.
Additionally, the temperature control 413 can distinguish between different
heating
elements of the heater 280, so as to create different temperature
environments.
[0094] Likewise, the manipulator control logic 440 include, for example,
firmware, integrated circuits and/or software (e.g., which can be provided on
the
processor 210) to control the operations of the manipulator 290. In an example
described with FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, the manipulator 290 can be implemented by
a
member that extends from the top segment into the receptacle 140. The
controller
410 can signal the manipulator control logic 440, a manipulator control 419
that
specifies one or more of (i) type of mixing (e.g., stirring, heavy mixing,
swirling),
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(ii) degree of mixing (e.g., quick, slow, strong etc.), (iii) duration of
mixing, and/or
(iv) time pattern for mixing (e.g., stir and pause, repeat).
[0095] While embodiments such as recited with FIG. 3 or FIG. 4 are recited
in
the context of a device such as shown with examples of FIG. 1A through FIG.
11_, in
variations, other cooking systems or devices can be implemented. For example,
a
distributed system can be implemented with a conventional stove top. In such a
system, a computer-implemented controller can operate on a motorized
manipulator that is moved about a track on a stove top (or oven). A
manipulator
can be mounted above or to the side of a cooking surface (e.g., stove-top),
and
the manipulator can be controlled to change its position using a motor
controlled
by the controller. In this way, the manipulator can lock into place above one
burner, then move into place over another burner and maintain multiple cooking
receptacles at one time. A user can upload recipes to the controller, which
can
operate similar to programming or logic described with examples of FIG. 3 or
FIG.
4. The controller can in turn process the recipe and determine actions or
movements for the manipulator. The controller can also provide information
prompts or messages to a user in order to guide the user into preparing the
meal.
The controller can, for example, move between cooking surfaces and burners,
using time intervals that are determined by the recipe. Actions such as
stirring or
blending can be programmatically implemented and repeated as needed. Still
other
actions such as waiting for cooling, or stirring until a certain consistency
is reached,
can also be performed. The combination of the controller, track system, and
motorized manipulator can in this way provide a guided and assisted meal
preparation experience for the user.
[0096] METHODOLOGY
[0097] FIG. 5 illustrates a method for operating a food preparation
device,
according to one or more embodiments. In describing an example of FIG. 5,
reference may be made to other examples, such as elements described with FIG.
2. Reference is made to elements of other examples for purpose of illustrating
suitable elements or components for performing a step or sub-step being
described.
[0098] With reference to FIG. 5, the food preparation device 200
identifies a
recipe for a food item that is to be prepared (510). In one implementation,
the
device 200 utilizes the network interface 202 in order to access a network
site and
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retrieve one or more recipes. For example, a user may control the device 200
and
specify a network resource where a desired recipe is provided. Still further,
the
user can operate a separate computing device that can communicate with the
food
preparation device 200. The user can operate the computing device to signal a
recipe to the food preparation device 200 via the network interface 202 (e.g.,
the
wireless communication port). Still further, the user can specify a recipe
stored in
the memory resources 250 of the device, or provide recipe information
corresponding to a recipe or portion thereof through the input mechanisms 230.
[0099] The processor 210 can determine a set of food containers 10 that
include food items specified in the recipe (520). For example, with reference
to
FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the processor 210 can implement a preparation module 350
which parses recipes for food items, and correlates the food items to food
containers based on a correlative data store (e.g., container data store 335
of FIG.
3).
[0100] In addition to determining food containers 10, the processor 210 can
determine a sequencing or order for the food containers 10 (530). The sequence
or
order can determine the order in which the food containers 10 are placed in
the
housing 110 of the food preparation device. For example, with reference to
FIG. 1C
and FIG. 1D, the order or sequencing can determine the order in which food
containers 10 are placed in the opening 115 of the housing 110.
[0101] In some embodiments, the device 200 includes resources for verifying
the placement of food containers 10 within the opening 115 of the housing 110
(540). Additionally, the resources can verify the order or sequence of
containers 10
provided in the housing 110. In one implementation, the device 200 can include
a
machine reader that detects a code on each food container 10. With further
reference food preparation device 100, machine reader can verify the
inclusion,
and optionally the ordering of the food containers 10 in the opening 115 of
the
housing.
[0102] Once food containers 10 are provided within the device 200, the
device
200 can begin food preparation (550). According to some embodiments, the
device
200 starts the heater 280. The processor 210 can also initiate a timer for the
heater. In some variations, the processor 210 can trigger the food extraction
mechanism to extract food items from the food container and to disperse the
food
items into the receptacle 140 (see FIG. 1A through FIG. 1D).
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[0103] Once cooking is initiated, the processor 210 performs steps to
introduce food items into the receptacle 140. In particular, the processor 210
initiates operations to detect a condition for adding a food item into the
receptacle
140 (560). The condition can include timing parameters (562). By way of
example,
the timing parameter can include a duration after heating occurs at a
particular
temperature, or alternatively, a sequencing condition (e.g., was another food
item
introduced into the receptacle as a pre-condition). As an alternative or
variation,
the condition can include a temperature condition (564). The temperature
condition
can identify whether the receptacle or heater 132 is at a pre-determined
temperature before the food item is introduced (e.g., heat receptacle 140 to
335 F
before introducing raw chicken).
[0104] Once the condition for adding a food item into the receptacle 140 is
met, the processor 210 can trigger the food item to be extracted from the
corresponding food container 10 and dispensed into the receptacle 140 (570).
[0105] Following dispensing of one or more food items, the processor 210
can
control the manipulator 290 into mixing the receptacle of the food preparation
device (580). The manipulating can specify a type of manipulating, a duration
of
manipulating, a range of manipulating and/or a timing pattern for the
manipulating. After introduction of another ingredient, an embodiment provides
that further manipulating (e.g., stirring) can be performed, based on control
parameters etc. For example, a second ingredient (or second set of
ingredients)
can be provided by a food container 10 that is ordered to follow a first food
container 10 that includes the first food item introduced in the receptacle
140. The
condition for introducing the second food container 10 can include (i) a
timing
parameter, corresponding to the pre-condition that the first food container 10
is
dispensed; (ii) a heating/cooling condition, corresponding to the temperature
of the
receptacle 140 being raised to a particular temperature; and (iii) a timing
parameter, corresponding to a duration of time during which the receptacle
(140)
(and food item from first container 10) is heated to the particular
temperature.
[0106] Additionally, following dispensing of the food items, the heater 280
can
be controlled by the processor 210 to achieve a particular temperature for
cooking/warming contents of the receptacle 140 (590). In some implementations,
the processor 210 can control the heater 280 into raising or lowering the
temperature of the receptacle after introduction of a particular food item, or
after
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passage of time. Thus, for example, the cooking process can include using
multiple
temperatures, which adjust or change after introduction of food items and/or
passage of time.
[0107] A determination can be made as to whether additional ingredients are
to be introduced (591). In one implementation, the determination can be made
after each instance in which a food item is introduced into the receptacle
140. If
another food item is to be extracted and introduced into the receptacle 140,
then
the method repeats at (560). Else the processor 210 detects a condition for
completion of the cooking process (594). The condition for completion of the
cooking process can include a timing condition (596). For example, the cooking
process continues for ten minutes after the last ingredient is introduced. The
condition for completion of the cooking process can alternatively include a
temperature condition (598). For example, the cooking process can end when the
temperature of an item is deemed to reach a certain level.
[0108] FIG 6 illustrates a method for utilizing a food preparation device
and
pre-packaged food containers to implement a recipe, according to one or more
embodiments. A method such as describe with an example of FIG. 6 can be
implemented using a device such as described with FIG. 2, and further a system
such as described with FIG. 3. Accordingly, reference may be made to elements
of
FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 for purpose of illustrating suitable components or elements
for
performing a step or sub-step being described.
[0109] In an embodiment, information about a collection of pre-packaged
food
containers 10 is stored with memory resources 250 of the food preparation
device
(610). Alternatively, the information can be stored remotely and provided as,
for
example, a service in conjunction with use of a food preparation device. The
information about the collection of pre-packaged containers 10 can include
information about individual food items contained in each container 10 of the
plurality of pre-packaged containers 10.
[0110] The ingredients of a selected recipe can be determined (620). In one
implementation, the processor 210 implements logic (e.g., using instructions
stored in memory resources 250) to determine the ingredients of a particular
recipe. In a variation, the logic can be provided remotely to the food
preparation
device 200, and the results determined from implementing the logic can be
communicated to the food preparation device 200.
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[0111] In an embodiment, the processor 210 determines a set of containers
from the collection of pre-packaged containers (630). The set of containers 10
are selected as for providing the ingredients for a prepared food item of the
recipe.
The set of food items can be determined based at least in part on comparing
the
food items of the set of containers 10 with ingredients specified in the
recipe.
[0112] Still further, in an embodiment, the processor 210 can perform a
verification to confirm that each container 10 in the set of containers 10 is
received
in a food preparation device (640). For example, the processor 210 can control
a
machine reader to detect a machine-readable code on the individual food
containers 10 in the set of food containers 10. Alternatively, the processor
210 can
prompt the user to enter or otherwise specify information confirming that each
container 10 in the set has been provided with food preparation device 100.
[0113] Additionally, the processor 210 can control one or more aspects of
heating or mixing the food items provided from the set of containers based on
the
recipe (650). For example, the processor 210 can determine the control
parameters 365, which control heating, manipulating (and optionally food
extraction).
[0114] ADDITIONAL USAGES
[0115] In one aspect, the combination of the camera 222, processor 210 and
network interface 202, 204 can enable a remote food preparation use
("telecooking"). For example, a remotely located user can conduct live
telecooking,
during which the remotely located user controls the operation of the food
preparation device 100. By way of example, the remotely located user can
conduct
live cooking sessions which stream directly to the local machine. A remote
user can
upload a recipe and also adjusts the recipe as is necessary or desired. The
operation of the food preparation device 100 can optionally be triggered
remotely.
For example, a mother can telecook and proctor her college-aged child on how
to
cook stir-fried tomato and eggs. The remote user (e.g., mother) can proctor
the
local user (e.g., her child) during the cooking process using a laptop or
tablet
device. Functions such as timing, recipe selection, prompts regarding the
addition
of ingredients, and/or temperature settings can be provided from the remote
user.
The food preparation device 100 can also provide prompts, generated through
recipe processing or remote user input, to instruct the local operator to
perform
certain actions.
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[0116] Although illustrative embodiments have been described in detail
herein
with reference to the accompanying drawings, variations to specific
embodiments
and details are encompassed by this disclosure. It is intended that the scope
of
embodiments described herein be defined by claims and their equivalents.
Furthermore, it is contemplated that a particular feature described, either
individually or as part of an embodiment, can be combined with other
individually
described features, or parts of other embodiments. Thus, absence of describing
combinations should not preclude the inventor(s) from claiming rights to such
combinations.
26
