AUTOMATED SNACK MANUFACTURING DEVICE FOR DIETARY PREFERENCES

Abstract

An automated snack manufacturing device for dietary preferences, comprising a housing 101 positioned on a surface, an user interface for providing input specifications regarding dietary preferences and health conditions of user, along with quantity of a user-desired recipe, multiple storage chambers 103 featuring a nozzle 104 transports ingredients into a mixing container 105, a motorized stirrer 106 blends ingredients into a dough, a linear pusher 107 directs dough towards a tray 109 via a motorized iris lid 108, a motorized clamp 110 position a molding plate 112 onto an electromagnetic strip 113, a telescopically operated rod 115 with a flap 114 presses over dough, a conveyer belt 116 translates pieces into an oil-filled section 118 for frying, a meshed sheet 119 dispenses fried items into container 105.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention pertains to an automated snack manufacturing device developed to enable user to automatically prepare snacks specifically tailored to the dietary preferences and health conditions, along with the desired quantity, thereby enhancing convenience and ensuring that each snack meets individual nutritional needs and culinary desires.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Snacks play a vital role in various cultures, serving not just as quick bites but also as a means of social interaction and celebration. Different religions and traditions influence snack preferences; for example, Jain cuisine excludes root vegetables, emphasizing non-violence, while Hindu snacks may avoid certain ingredients during festivals and fasting periods. Sikh snacks often feature rich flavors and spices, reflecting Punjabi heritage. In many cultures, snacks are integral to rituals and gatherings, symbolizing hospitality and community. Snacks also provide an opportunity to introduce unique regional ingredients, preserving culinary traditions. Understanding these preferences enhances respect for diverse practices, promoting inclusivity while allowing individuals to enjoy snacks that align with their beliefs and values.

[0003] Traditional methods of making snacks vary widely across cultures and religions, each reflecting unique culinary practices. In Jain cuisine, snacks are often made without root vegetables, using steam or shallow frying to preserve flavors. Hindu traditions may involve elaborate preparations for festivals, using ingredients like bean and rice flour, which is time-consuming. Sikh snacks often include rich spices and ghee, requiring careful balancing to avoid overpowering flavors. However, these methods may have drawbacks, such as being labor-intensive and time-consuming. Additionally, some traditional practices may not accommodate modern dietary restrictions or health concerns, leading to limited options. Moreover, reliance on specific regional ingredients may restrict accessibility, making of snacks challenging for those outside these communities to fully engage with their culinary heritage.

[0004] US5180601A discloses a method and apparatus for preparing essentially fat free chips such as potato chips and the like having an appearance and taste similar to conventional chips without the use of deep fat frying processes. The method of the present invention includes the steps of exposing sliced raw potatoes and the like to a high intensity microwave field that rapidly converts moisture within the slice into steam. These exposed slices are then dried by longer exposure to a lower energy microwave field. The apparatus of the present invention includes a single mode meander waveguide with a microwave absorptive terminator at an end of the waveguide to support a standing wave field within the waveguide. Apertures are provided along portions of the waveguide to accommodate a microwave-transparent conveyor belt through the waveguide for transporting the potato slices and the like through the waveguide. The crisp chip type food product produced by this method and apparatus has not had any fat added to the chip and is therefore low in calories though having the conventional texture and taste associated with deep fat fried chip foods. Though US'601 addresses a process and apparatus for preparing various types of snacks like chips without the need for immersion in heated oil, specifically focusing on a fat-free method for creating potato chips, this cited prior art is limited in its capabilities. This cited prior art does not facilitate users in automatically preparing snacks that are tailored to their individual dietary preferences and health conditions. Furthermore, US'601 lacks the functionality to allow for precise control over the desired quantity of ingredients, which restricts the effectiveness in meeting the diverse nutritional needs and culinary desires of health-conscious consumers seeking personalized snack options.

[0005] US8277858B2 is directed towards a method for making a healthy snack food having an appearance and taste similar to conventional fried snack products without the use of an oil-flying process. The method of the present invention includes the steps of providing food slices from a starch-based food or dough. The food slices can be blanched and a controlled amount of oil can be added to enhance final organoleptic properties. The food slices are then rapidly dehydrated to a much lower moisture content in a primary drying step that simulates conventional frying dehydration rates. A food snack, such as a corn or potato-based snack, produced by this method is a low-fat, ready-to-eat snack having the conventional texture and taste associated with fried snack products. Although, US'858 discusses an improved method for producing shelf-stable snack foods, particularly focusing on low-oil options, it specifically relates to a process that combines unique unit operations to create low-fat potato crisps with organoleptic properties similar to traditional fried varieties. However, this cited prior art is deficient in providing users the capability to automatically prepare snacks that are tailored to their individual dietary preferences and health conditions. Additionally, US'858 does not offer the functionality to allow for precise control over the desired quantity of ingredients, limiting the usefulness for health-conscious consumers seeking personalized and convenient snack preparation solutions.

[0006] Conventionally, numerous devices have been developed for preparing various types of chips, but these existing devices lack the functionality to automatically create snacks that are specifically tailored to user's dietary preferences and health conditions, failing to accommodate individual nutritional needs. Moreover, these devices do not provide precise control over the desired quantity of ingredients, which limits the effectiveness in aligning with personal culinary desires and dietary restrictions. As a result, users may find themselves unable to prepare snacks that meet both the health requirements and taste preferences, diminishing the overall utility of these devices in modern cooking.

[0007] To address the aforementioned drawbacks in existing snack preparation devices, there is a clear need in the field to develop an innovative device that empowers users to automatically prepare snacks specifically tailored to the dietary preferences and health conditions, while also allowing for precise control over the desired quantity of ingredients. This advancement would enhance the cooking experience by ensuring that users is able to easily create nutritious and personalized snacks, effectively accommodating individual nutritional needs and culinary desires, thereby promoting a healthier lifestyle and greater culinary satisfaction in everyday cooking practices.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is to develop a device that facilitates the user to automatically prepare snacks tailored to the dietary preferences and health conditions along with the desired quantity, thereby streamlining the cooking process and enhancing convenience without compromising on nutritional values or individual dietary requirements.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that maintains optimal hygiene standards and minimize flavor contamination between batches, thereby ensuring that each preparation consistently meets user expectations for quality and taste, ultimately enhancing the overall culinary experience and promoting a sanitary environment for food preparation.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that facilitates seamless input of dietary specifications while integrating real-time monitoring features to keep users informed about ingredient levels and necessary actions, thereby enhancing the overall cooking experience by promoting efficiency, accuracy, and user engagement in the preparation of personalized snacks.

[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 involves an automated snack manufacturing device that allows users to automatically prepare snacks tailored to their dietary preferences and health conditions, while providing precise control over the desired quantity of ingredients, ensuring a personalized and convenient cooking experience that meets individual nutritional needs.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated snack manufacturing device for dietary preferences, comprises of a housing developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, multiple dampers incorporated with the housing's base for absorbing any shocks and vibrations, for ensuring smooth operation, an user interface integrated within a computing unit, wirelessly connected to a microcontroller associated with the device via a communication module, is accessed by a user for providing input specifications regarding dietary preferences and health conditions of the user, along with quantity of a user-desired recipe, the microcontroller processes the provided inputs for evaluating an appropriate composition of ingredients needed for the user-selected recipes, a series of storage chambers arranged in top most portion of the housing for storing ingredients including flours, oils and spices of varying kinds, and featuring an electronically controlled nozzle via a conduit for extracting the ingredients as per the evaluated composition, in view of transporting the ingredients into a mixing container located beneath the chambers, a motorized stirrer installed in the mixing container for rotating at a pre-defined speed, in view of blending the dispensed ingredients into a kneaded dough, a linear pusher installed on inner walls of the container apply pressure onto the kneaded dough for directing the dough towards a motorized iris lid integrated on the container that dispenses the dough into a tray configured in bottom portion of the housing, a motorized clamp installed on the base by means of an L-shaped extendable link extends to grab a molding plate mimicking shapes of the user-desired edible items, and position onto an electromagnetic strip arranged on inner walls of the housing, which securely attaching the plate beneath the container, the microcontroller directs the clamps to transfer the dough on the plate, in a flattened manner, a telescopically operated rod arranged in the housing with a flap extends to press the flap over the dough, for immersing the dough into mold cut outs of the plate, which in turn cuts the dough into multiple pieces of raw items, of the user-desired shapes, and gets collected on a conveyer belt installed on a block configured with the housing, for translating the items to a section filled with oil, arranged with the block, for frying at an optimum temperature, a meshed sheet positioned within the section, connected via a dual-axis lead screw arrangement provides two-axis movement to facilitate in removing of the fried items from the section, and a motorized spindle integrated in between the sheet and arrangement to provide necessary movement to the sheet for dispensing the fried items into container positioned beside the section, thereby allowing the user to collect the manufactured user-desired edible items.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a cleaning mechanisms incorporated with the mixing container, including water and cleaning liquid for dispensing and removing extra ingredients through multiple iris holes provided on the container, to eliminate residual flavors from previous ingredients, thus ensuring negligible contamination in subsequent batches, a RPM (Revolution per minute) sensor embedded in the mixing container, for detecting speed of the motorized stirrer, for adjusting motor speed based on quantity of ingredients being mixed, to retain aroma and flavor, a weight sensor embedded in each of the chambers for continuously monitoring weight of each stored ingredient, an associated LED (Light Emitting Diode) with each chamber, installed on the housing, for emitting colored signals to indicate ingredients level, a heating unit synchronized with a temperature sensor integrated in the section for providing optimum heating effect to the oil to maintain optimal cooking temperatures based on type and quantity of ingredients and a battery configured with the device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with the device.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an automated snack manufacturing device for dietary preferences.

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 pertains to an automated snack manufacturing device designed to assist users in effortlessly preparing snacks that are specifically tailored to the dietary preferences and health conditions, allowing the user for automatic selection and measurement of ingredients, ensuring that each snack is customized to meet individual nutritional needs while also providing precise control over the desired quantity, thereby enhancing the overall cooking experience and promoting healthier snacking options that align with personal dietary requirements.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an automated snack manufacturing device for dietary preferences is illustrated, comprising a housing 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, multiple dampers 102 incorporated with the base portion, a series of storage chambers 103 arranged in top most portion of the housing 101, each assembled with a conduit featuring an electronically controlled nozzle 104, a mixing container 105 located beneath the chambers 103, a motorized stirrer 106 installed in the mixing container 105, a linear pusher 107 installed on inner walls of the container 105, a motorized iris lid 108 integrated on the container 105, a tray 109 configured in bottom portion of the housing 101, a motorized clamp 110 installed on the base by means of an L-shaped extendable link, multiple molding plates 112 provided within the housing 101, an electromagnetic strip 113 arranged on inner walls of the housing 101, a flap 114 arranged in the housing 101 by means of a telescopically operated rod 115, a conveyer belt 116 installed on a block 117 configured with the housing 101, a section 118 filled with oil and arranged with the block 117, a meshed sheet 119 positioned within the section 118, connected via a dual-axis lead screw arrangement 120, a motorized spindle 111 integrated in between the sheet 119 and arrangement 120, cleaning mechanisms 122 incorporated with the mixing container 105, multiple iris holes 123 provided on the container 105, a RPM (Revolution per minute) sensor 124 embedded in the mixing container 105, a weight sensor 125 embedded in each of the chambers 103, an associated LED (Light Emitting Diode) 126 with each chamber 103, and a heating unit 127 synchronized with a temperature sensor 121 integrated in the section 118.

[0023] The device proposed up herein features a housing 101 designed to be placed on a fixed surface to facilitate snack preparation. This cuboidal enclosure encases various components, crafted from materials such as stainless steel, ensuring durability while maintaining a generous size and lightweight design, ultimately enhancing usability and convenience for users during the snack-making process.

[0024] The housing 101 features multiple dampers 102 strategically placed beneath the base, effectively absorbing shocks and vibrations to guarantee smooth operation during snack preparation, ensuring that the process remains stable and consistent, ultimately enhancing the overall performance and reliability of the equipment while providing a seamless cooking experience for user seeking high-quality results in their snack-making endeavors.

[0025] The housing 101 incorporates an inbuilt microcontroller that wirelessly connects to a computing unit, accessed by the user, through a versatile communication module, which includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GSM capabilities. This setup allows the user to input specific commands related to their dietary preferences and health conditions, as well as the desired quantity for recipes, facilitating seamless communication, and empowering the user to tailor the cooking experience, ensuring meals align with their nutritional needs while enhancing convenience and personalization in food preparation.

[0026] In order to activate functioning of the device, the user must manually switch it on by pressing a push button located on the housing 101. This simple action closes the electrical circuits, allowing the conduction of electricity throughout the device. Once the circuits are closed, the device powers on and becomes operational. Conversely, pressing the button again will open the circuits, cutting off the electrical flow and deactivating the device. This straightforward mechanism ensures user-friendly operation while providing clear control over the device's functionality.

[0027] Upon activation of the device, a user-interface integrated within a computing unit is accessed by the user to input specifications related to the dietary preferences and health conditions, as well as the desired recipe quantity. The interactive interface presents a series of questions, enabling users to either select options from a display list or manually enter details. This process ensures that the user's specific nutritional needs and recipe quantities are accurately captured for a tailored cooking experience.

[0028] The dietary preferences mentioned cater to diverse cultural and religious communities, including Jain, Sikh, and Hindu users. The microcontroller evaluates the required ingredients according to specific guidelines tailored to these dietary needs. This ensures that the device adheres to the unique restrictions and preferences of each group, facilitating the preparation of dishes that align with their cultural beliefs. By automating this evaluation process, the device enhances the cooking experience while respecting the traditions and values of its users.

[0029] For instance, for Jain preferences, the microcontroller ensures that recipes exclude onions, garlic, and root vegetables, strictly adhering to dietary restrictions central to Jain principles. This thoughtful approach reflects the community's commitment to non-violence and the preservation of life, as these ingredients are often associated with harming living organisms during harvesting. By automatically filtering out these items, the device enables the user to easily prepare dishes that align with their ethical and dietary beliefs, promoting a respectful culinary experience.

[0030] For Hindu preferences, the microcontroller adjusts ingredient compositions based on specific days of the Hindu calendar, avoiding the use of onions, garlic, and certain other ingredients during fasting periods or religious observances, following input provided by the user. This functionality ensures that dishes comply with dietary restrictions associated with various Hindu traditions and practices. By automating these adjustments, the device supports users in maintaining their religious and cultural practices while simplifying meal preparation during important observances.

[0031] For Sikh preferences, the microcontroller permits higher spice levels and specific ingredients that align with traditional Punjabi cuisine. This feature accommodates users' desires for richer flavors and diverse textures in their dishes. By recognizing the culinary significance of spices and unique ingredients, the device enhances the cooking experience, allowing users to create authentic Punjabi meals that reflect their cultural heritage. This thoughtful integration ensures that the final dishes are not only flavorful but also resonate with the users' culinary traditions and preferences.

[0032] The input commands of the user are relayed to the microcontroller, which processes these instructions to determine the necessary composition of ingredients for the selected recipes, ensuring that the ingredient quantities align with the user's dietary preferences and health conditions. By considering individual needs, such as allergies or specific dietary restrictions, the device tailors the ingredient selection accordingly, promoting healthier cooking while allowing users to create recipes that meet their personal health goals and culinary desires.

[0033] In response to evaluated composition of ingredients for the selected recipes, the microcontroller actuates an electronically controlled nozzle 104 incorporated to a series of storage chambers 103 arranged in top most portion of the housing 101 via a conduit for extracting varying ingredients, including flours, oils and spices of varying kinds as per the evaluated composition and dispensing the ingredients into a mixing container 105 located beneath the chambers 103.

[0034] The electronically controlled nozzle 104 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow of ingredients in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of the ingredients into kinetic energy, which increases velocity of the ingredients to get dispensed. Upon actuation of nozzle 104 by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes ingredients within the chambers 103, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the ingredients to get extracted from the chambers 103 with a high force and get dispensed into the mixing container 105 in an appropriate manner.

[0035] Upon dispensing the ingredients into the mixing container 105, the microcontroller activates a motorized stirrer 106 provide in the container 105 to rotate at a pre-defined speed in view of blending of the dispensed ingredients and transforming into a well-kneaded dough. The motorized stirrer 106 operates using an electric motor connected to a stirring blade. When activated, the motor rotates the blade at a set speed, creating a mixing action. This rotation generates a vortex that effectively blends ingredients, ensuring uniformity throughout the mixture and transforming the ingredients into a well-kneaded dough.

[0036] An RPM (Revolution per minute) sensor 124 embedded in the mixing container 105 detects speed of the motorized stirrer 106. The RPM sensor 124 detects the speed of a motorized stirrer 106 using a magnetic field and a sensing element, typically a Hall Effect sensor. As the stirrer's 106 rotor rotates, it periodically passes near the sensor 124. Each time the magnet approaches the sensor 124, it generates a voltage pulse. The microcontroller counts these pulses over a defined time period to calculate the RPM of the stirrer 106 and accordingly adjusts speed of the motor as per quantity of ingredients being mixed, ensuring that the ingredients are blended effectively without overmixing, which may compromise the aroma and flavor.

[0037] Upon blending the ingredients into a dough, a linear pusher 107, strategically installed on the inner walls of the container 105, is activated by a microcontroller for guiding kneaded dough towards a motorized iris lid 108 integrated into the container 105. The linear pusher 107 is linked to a pneumatic unit, associated with the housing 101 and including an air compressor, air cylinders, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the pusher 107. 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, the compressed air further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the pusher 107 and due to applied pressure, the pusher 107 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the linear pusher 107 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. Thus, the microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the pusher 107 in order to apply pressure onto the kneaded dough for guiding kneaded dough towards the motorized iris lid 108.

[0038] The microcontroller activates the motorized iris lid 108 to get opened for dispensing the kneaded dough directly into a tray 109 located at the bottom of the housing 101. The iris lid 108 typically refers to the iris or aperture mechanism in the camera or optical instruments as it works in a similar manner to that of a human eye. The iris consists several thin and overlapping blades that forms an adjustable opening of the lid 108. Upon actuation of the iris lid 108 by the microcontroller the blades move apart resulting in the opening of the lid 108, allowing the kneaded dough to get dispensed into the tray 109.

[0039] Afterwards dispensing of dough into the tray 109, an L-shaped extendable link installed on the base is actuated by the microcontroller to position a motorized clamp 110 incorporated with the link in proximity to a specific molding plate 112 among multiple molding plate 112 provided within the housing 101, which replicates the shape of the user-desired edible items. The extension/retraction of the L-shaped extendable link is regulated by the microcontroller by in the same manner as the linear pusher 107 by employing the pneumatic unit, in view of positioning the clamp 110 in proximity to a molding plate 112 that replicates the shape of the user-desired edible items.

[0040] The microcontroller then activates the motorized clamp 110 to securely grip the molding plate 112. The motorized clamp 110 utilizes an electric motor to drive a screw-driven unit that translates rotational motion from the motor into linear movement for closing or tightening the clamp 110 jaws. The microcontroller regulates speed and operating direction of shaft of the motor for regulating closing or tightening the clamp 110 jaws in order to securely grip the molding plate 112. The microcontroller then directs the clamp 110 to position the plate 112 onto an electromagnetic strip 113 integrated into the inner walls of the housing 101.

[0041] The electromagnetic strip 113 incorporates electromagnets, generating a magnetic field when supplied with electric current. Each electromagnet consists of wire wound into a coil; when current flows through this wire, a magnetic field forms around the coil. This magnetic field gets concentrated in the central hole of the coil, effectively energizing the electromagnetic strip 113. As a result, the strip 113 securely attaches the molding plate 112 beneath the container 105, providing a stable base during the molding process. Upon securely attaching the molding plate 112 beneath the container 105, the microcontroller instructs the clamp 110 to transfer the dough onto the plate 112 in a flattened manner, ensuring even distribution of the dough across the plate's 112 surface.

[0042] A telescopically operated rod 115, housed within the device, is activated by the microcontroller to press the dough using a flap 114 attached to the rod 115 that immerses the dough into the mold cutouts of the plate 112, effectively shaping the dough according to the desired design. The extension/retraction of the telescopically operated rod 115 is regulated by the microcontroller by in the same manner as the linear pusher 107, by employing the pneumatic plate 112, to press the flap 114 over the dough, resulting in immersing the dough into mold cut outs of the plate 112, which in turn cuts the dough into multiple pieces of raw items, of the user-desired shapes.

[0043] Upon cutting of the pieces, the cut pieces get collected on a conveyer belt 116 installed on a block 117 configured with the housing 101. The microcontroller then activates the conveyer belt 116 for translating the items to a section 118 filled with oil, arranged with the block 117, in view of frying the pieces at an optimum temperature. The conveyer belt 116 consists of a belt 116 stretched across two or more pulley in close loop and one of the pulley is attached with a driven motor that is interlinked with the microcontroller. On actuation, the driven motor rotates the pulley which in turn results that the conveyer belt 116 also rotates that leads to translate the items to the section 118 filled with oil in view of frying the pieces.

[0044] A temperature sensor 121 integrated in the section 118 monitors temperature of the oil. The temperature sensor 121 mentioned herein is an infrared (IR) based temperature sensor 121 that operates by detecting infrared radiation emitted by the oil. The sensor 121 includes an IR detector that receives radiation from the oil and converts the radiation into an electrical signal. This signal's intensity correlates with the temperature of the oil, as hotter the oil emits more IR radiation, which is then sent to the microcontroller in the form of an electrical signal. The microcontroller processes the signal to determine monitors temperature of the oil.

[0045] Based on the determined temperature of the oil, the microcontroller activates a heating unit 127 integrated into the frying section 118 to ensure optimal heating. The heating unit 127 as mentioned herein is constructed from metal and utilizes electricity as its energy source, which operates on the principle of electrical resistance, converting electric energy into heat energy. The generated heat is transferred through an air medium around the wires, effectively warming the oil, in view of maintaining an optimal cooking temperatures tailored to the type and quantity of ingredients being fried.

[0046] Upon frying of the pieces, a dual-axis lead screw arrangement 120 provided with the oil-filled section 118 and incorporated with a meshed sheet 119 is actuated by the microcontroller for providing two-axis movement to the meshed sheet 119 in order to facilitate in removing of the fried items from the section 118. The dual-axis lead screw arrangement 120 utilizes dual lead screws to control the movement and positioning of the meshed sheet 119 in dual-axis. The dual-axis lead screw arrangement 120 comprises of a pair of lead screws both are positioned perpendicular each other. Each screws have its own dedicated lead screw and corresponding nut assembly. Each lead screw is driven by a motor for providing two-axis movement to facilitate in removing of the fried items from the section 118.

[0047] The microcontroller synchronously actuates a motorized spindle 111 integrated in between the sheet 119 and arrangement 120 to provide necessary movement to the sheet 119 for dispensing the fried items into container 105 positioned beside the section 118. The motorized spindle 111 consists of two main components, i.e., a motor and a spindle 111. The working principle of a motorized spindle 111 involves the motor producing torque, which is rotational force, which is then transferred to the spindle 111. This torque causes the spindle 111 to rotate the sheet 119 for dispensing the fried items into container 105 positioned beside the section 118, thereby allowing the user to collect the manufactured user-desired edible items.

[0048] The chambers 103 are equipped with weight sensor 125 that continuously monitor the weight of each stored ingredient. The weight sensor 125 comprises of a convoluted diaphragm and a sensing module. Due to the weight of ingredients stored in the chambers 103, the size of the diaphragm changes which is detected by the sensing module. The sensing module detects the weight of each stored ingredient and on the basis of the changes in sizes of the diaphragm, the acquired data is forwarded to the microcontroller in the form of an electrical signal. The microcontroller processes the received signal to determine weight of each stored ingredient in the chambers 103.

[0049] In response to the determined weight of each stored ingredient in the chambers 103, the microcontroller activates an associated LED (Light Emitting Diode) 126 for each chamber 103 mounted on the housing 101 for emitting colored signals in order to indicate the ingredient levels. The LED 126 is a two-lead semiconductor light source also known as p-n junction which produce the lighting when constant voltage is supplied across the diode. When the voltage is supplied across the diode, the electrons recombine with the electrons hole in the diode which result in conversion of electron into photons which is another form of light, thus indicating the ingredient levels.

[0050] For instance, a green light signals that an ingredient is at an adequate level, yellow warns of low supplies, and red indicates that the ingredient is nearly depleted. This color-coded technique allows the user to quickly assess the status of each ingredient at a glance, eliminating the need for manual checks and saving time and facilitating timely replenishment of ingredients, ensuring that everything needed for optimal mixing and cooking processes is readily available.

[0051] Upon completion of the snack making process, cleaning mechanisms 122 incorporated in the mixing container 105, including water and cleaning liquid, is actuated by the microcontroller for dispensing water and liquid in the container 105 and removing extra ingredients through multiple iris holes 123 provided on the container 105. The cleaning mechanisms 122 consists of a setup that dispenses water and a cleaning liquid into the container 105. When activated, the microcontroller controls the release of these cleaning agents, which flow into the container 105 to dissolve and dislodge any leftover ingredients, thus resulting efficient removal of debris and excess ingredients via the iris holes 123. As the cleaning solution circulates, the walls and bottom of the container 105 gets rinsed effectively. The iris holes 123 allow for easy drainage of the dirty water and cleaning liquid, ensuring a thorough and efficient cleaning process, maintaining hygiene and readiness for subsequent use, thus eliminating any residual flavors from previous ingredients, and ultimately ensuring negligible contamination in subsequent batches.

[0052] During the cleaning and rinsing process of the container 105, or when cleaning is needed, the microcontroller generates a wireless notification to alert the user via the user interface, in view of keeping the user informed about the cleaning status, ensuring timely attention to hygiene requirements. By notifying the user when cleaning is required or in progress, the device helps maintain optimal hygiene standards, crucial for preserving the intended flavor profiles of each recipe, as residual ingredients may affect taste and quality.

[0053] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is preferably a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0054] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the housing 101 as mentioned in the invention is designed to be placed on the fixed surface to facilitate snack preparation. Upon activation of the device, the user-interface integrated is accessed by the user to input specifications related to the dietary preferences and health conditions, as well as the desired recipe quantity. The input commands of the user are relayed to the microcontroller, which processes these instructions to determine the necessary composition of ingredients for the selected recipes, ensuring that the ingredient quantities align with the user's dietary preferences and health conditions. In response to evaluated composition of ingredients for the selected recipes, the microcontroller actuates the electronically controlled nozzle 104 for extracting varying ingredients, including flours, oils and spices of varying kinds as per the evaluated composition and dispensing the ingredients into the mixing container 105. Upon dispensing the ingredients into the mixing container 105, the microcontroller activates the motorized stirrer 106 to rotate at the pre-defined speed in view of blending of the dispensed ingredients and transforming into the well-kneaded dough. Upon blending the ingredients into the dough, the linear pusher 107 is activated by the microcontroller for guiding kneaded dough towards the motorized iris lid 108. The microcontroller activates the motorized iris lid 108 to get opened for dispensing the kneaded dough directly into the tray 109. Afterwards dispensing of dough into the tray 109, the L-shaped extendable link is actuated by the microcontroller to position the motorized clamp 110 in proximity to the molding plate 112 that replicates the shape of the user-desired edible items. The microcontroller then activates the motorized clamp 110 to securely grip the molding plate 112 to position the plate 112 onto the electromagnetic strip 113. The electromagnetic strip 113 securely attaches the molding plate 112 beneath the container 105, providing the stable base during the molding process.

[0055] In continuation, the microcontroller instructs the clamp 110 to transfer the dough onto the plate 112 in the flattened manner, ensuring even distribution of the dough across the plate's 112 surface. The telescopically operated rod 115 is activated by the microcontroller to press the dough using the flap 114, which immerses the dough into the mold cutouts of the plate 112, effectively shaping the dough according to the desired design. Upon cutting of the pieces, the cut pieces get collected on the conveyer belt 116. The microcontroller then activates the conveyer belt 116 for translating the items to the section 118 filled with oil in view of frying the pieces at the optimum temperature. The temperature sensor 121 monitors temperature of the oil. Based on the determined temperature of the oil, the microcontroller activates the heating unit 127 to ensure optimal heating. Upon frying of the pieces, the dual-axis lead screw arrangement 120 is actuated by the microcontroller for providing two-axis movement to the meshed sheet 119 in order to facilitate in removing of the fried items from the section 118. The microcontroller synchronously actuates the motorized spindle 111 to provide necessary movement to the sheet 119 for dispensing the fried items into container 105 positioned beside the section 118. Upon completion of the snack making process, the cleaning mechanisms 122, including water and cleaning liquid, is actuated by the microcontroller for dispensing water and liquid in the container 105 and removing extra ingredients through multiple iris holes 123. During the cleaning and rinsing process of the container 105, or when cleaning is needed, the microcontroller generates wireless notification to alert the user via the user interface, in view of keeping the user informed about the cleaning status, ensuring timely attention to hygiene requirements. The weight sensors 125 continuously monitor the weight of each stored ingredient. In response to the determined weight of each stored ingredient in the chambers 103, the microcontroller activates the associated LED (Light Emitting Diode) 126 for emitting colored signals indicating level of ingredients.

[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) An automated snack manufacturing device for dietary preferences, comprising:

i) a housing 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, wherein multiple dampers 102 incorporated with said housing's 101 base for absorbing any shocks and vibrations, for ensuring smooth operation;

ii) a user interface integrated within a computing unit, wirelessly connected to a microcontroller associated with said device via a communication module, that is accessed by a user for providing input specifications regarding dietary preferences and health conditions of said user, along with quantity of a user-desired recipe, wherein said microcontroller processes said provided inputs for evaluating an appropriate composition of ingredients needed for said user-selected recipes;

iii) a series of storage chambers 103 arranged in top most portion of said housing 101 for storing ingredients including flours, oils and spices of varying kinds, wherein each of said chamber 103 is assembled with a conduit featuring an electronically controlled nozzle 104 for extracting said ingredients as per said evaluated composition, in view of transporting said ingredients into a mixing container 105 located beneath said chambers 103;

iv) a motorized stirrer 106 installed in said mixing container 105 for rotating at a pre-defined speed, in view of blending said dispensed ingredients into a kneaded dough, wherein a linear pusher 107 installed on inner walls of said container 105 to apply pressure onto said kneaded dough, for directing said dough towards a motorized iris lid 108 integrated on said container 105, for dispensing said dough into a tray 109 configured in bottom portion of said housing 101;

v) a set of molding plates of varying shapes and dimensions, provided within said housing, each plate mimics multiple edible items for said user's selection, wherein a motorized clamp is installed on said base by means of an L-shaped extendable link for extending to grab a specific molding plate mimicking shapes of said user-desired edible items, in view of positioning said molding plate onto an electromagnetic strip arranged on inner walls of said housing, in view of securely attaching said plate beneath said container, followed by actuation of said clamp to transfer said dough on said plate, in a flattened manner;

vi) a flap 114 arranged in said housing 101 by means of a telescopically operated rod 115, for extending to press said flap 114 over said dough, for immersing said dough into mold cut outs of said plate 112, which in turn cuts said dough into multiple pieces of raw items, of said user-desired shapes, wherein said cut pieces are collected on a conveyer belt 116 installed on a block 117 configured with said housing 101, for translating said items to a section 118 filled with oil, arranged with said block 117, for frying at an optimum temperature; and

vii) a meshed sheet 119 positioned within said section 118, connected via a dual-axis lead screw arrangement 120 for providing two-axis movement to facilitate in removing of said fried items from said section 118, wherein said microcontroller actuates a motorized spindle 111 integrated in between said sheet 119 and arrangement 120 to provide necessary movement to said sheet 119 for dispensing said fried items into container 105 positioned beside said section 118, thereby allowing said user to collect said manufactured user-desired edible items.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said mixing container 105 is incorporated with cleaning mechanisms 122 including water and cleaning liquid dispensing and removing extra ingredients through multiple iris holes 123 provided on said container 105, operated by said microcontroller, to eliminate residual flavors from previous ingredients, thus ensuring negligible contamination in subsequent batches.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller generates a wireless notification, for notifying said user through said user interface when cleaning is required or in progress, thereby maintaining optimal hygiene standards and preserving intended flavor profiles for each recipe.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an RPM (Revolution per minute) sensor 124 is embedded in said mixing container 105, for detecting speed of said motorized stirrer 106, for adjusting motor speed based on quantity of ingredients being mixed, to retain aroma and flavor.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a weight sensor 125 is embedded in each of said chambers 103 for continuously monitoring weight of each stored ingredient, based on which said microcontroller actuates an associated LED (Light Emitting Diode) 126 for each chamber 103, installed on said housing 101, for emitting colored signals, wherein a method for generating said signals, comprises of steps:
a) a red light is activated to indicate critically low ingredient level, thus alerting said user to refill said ingredients, to ensure optimal working;
b) an orange light is emitted to indicate partially filled ingredients, that serves as a reminder for said user to monitor supply and consider refilling soon;
c) a green light indicates that said chamber 103 is full, confirming to said user that sufficient ingredients are available for use.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a heating unit 127 synchronized with a temperature sensor 121, is integrated in said section 118 for providing optimum heating effect to said oil to maintain optimal cooking temperatures based on type and quantity of ingredients.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said device for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said device.

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