MODULAR TUPPER WARE LIDS HOLDING AND CLEANING DEVICE

Abstract

A modular Tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device, comprising a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, multiple suction cups 102 affixes platform 101 with surface, a U-shaped extendable member 103 with multiple flaps 104 accommodates multiple tupper ware lids, a touch interactive display panel 106 enables user to input details regarding a total number of lids along with their type that user desires to position over member 103, an artificial intelligence-based image module 108 determine a type of lid that user is holding, a laser projection unit 109 guide user to position lid in-between flaps 104, a color sensor detects presence of dirt on lids, an electronic nozzle 110 dispense water over detected dirt, multiple iris pores translates excessive water a collection chamber 112, a level sensor monitors water quantity within chamber 112, a speaker 113 notify user regarding disposal of collected water.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device that assists a user in holding and cleaning of tupper ware lids in accordance to the type and the presence of dirt on the lid, thereby reducing physical efforts as well as saving time of the user.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Tupperware lids, whether in homes, restaurants, or other food establishments, require various utensils to be washed regularly to maintain hygiene standards. Traditional methods often involve multiple tools and processes, leading to inefficiencies and time wastage. Throughout history, manual washing of lids has been a fundamental household chore performed using basic tools such as brushes, sponges, and soap. These traditional methods involved scrubbing lids individually under running water or in a basin, often requiring multiple tools for different types of lids.

[0003] Although the traditional method of manually cleaning of lids using brushes has proven effective to some extent, but it comes with inherent limitations. They may struggle to effectively remove stubborn stains especially on surfaces. Users may find themselves needing to apply additional scrubbing force or resorting to pre-soaking or alternative cleaning methods to achieve satisfactory washing of lids. Thus, there is a need to develop an innovative tool that provide a more time-efficient and consistent cleaning of lids where traditional methods may fall short and to meet the evolving demands of modern requirements.

[0004] CN114423706A relates to a method for cleaning a series of lids and a series of containers made of plastic material, each container being closed by a lid of the series of lids, comprising the following steps:-emission of cleaning radiation an emission device transport of the series of containers to the emission device along a transport path by a first gripping device, and-transferring the series of lids to the launching device along a transfer path by means of the second gripping device the invention is characterized in that the second gripping means alternate with the first gripping means in front of the firing means along the transport path when transporting the series of lids and the series of containers. Though CN'706 discloses a device that cleans a series of lids and a series of containers made of plastic material, each container being closed by a lid of the series of lids, however, this device is not capable of assisting a user in cleaning of a lid in accordance to the presence of dirt on the lid, thereby developing the need of physical efforts as well as time of the user.

[0005] US2016309963A1 relates to a lid holding device that is is designed to hold one of a variety of different lids over a pot, such as a crock pot. The lid holding device comprises a flat base, an extension which can be set to an adjustable angle relative to the base, and hold the extension and attachment in a desired leaning angle. The heavy pot and its contents rest on a base, stabilizing the device. When the lid is removed from the pot, the handle of the lid is held by the attachment preventing any touching of the inside of the lid or pot reducing contamination of the inside of the lid and pot. The leaning angle of the extension and the length of the extension and attachment can be adjusted to accommodate different lid sizes and shapes, causing each to be held vertically or at an angle above the pot. Holding the lid 8 above the pot at the desired angle allows liquids on the inside of the lid to drain and drip back into the pot preventing any liquids in the lid from falling on other surfaces causing a mess. The attachment is designed to hold a variety of lid handles. It has at least two upward projections extending upward from the attachment, the projections becoming narrower as they extend upward. This allows the attachment to fit between ends of a loop handle of a lid to secure the loop handle and lid. There are also horizontal for holding wider loop handles. A rest at the bottom of a recess receives a knob handle. Recess may be angled to accept larger knob handles. Though, US'963 relates to a lid holding device that is designed to hold one of a variety of different lids over a pot, such as a crock pot, however this device does not provide a means for cleaning a lid in accordance to the presence of dirt on the lid, thereby developing the need of physical efforts as well as time of the user.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of holding a lid over a utensil, however these device lack in providing a means for holding and cleaning of a lid in accordance to the type and presence of dirt on the lid, thereby developing the need of physical efforts as well as time of the user.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that assists a user in holding and cleaning of tupper ware lids in accordance to the type and the presence of dirt on the lid, thereby reducing physical efforts as well as saving time of the user.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

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

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of assisting a user in holding of tupper ware lids in accordance to the type of lid, thereby reducing physical efforts as well as reducing chances of damage to the lid.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of determining presence of any dirt on the lids and accordingly provide means for cleaning of tupper ware lids in an automated manner, thereby reducing physical efforts as well as saving time of the user.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that provide a means for sterilizing the lids and eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens from the lids, thereby preventing from health issues of the user.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a modular tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device that assists a user in holding and cleaning of tupper ware lids in accordance to the type and the presence of dirt on the lid, thereby reducing physical efforts as well as saving time of the user.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a modular tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device, comprising a platform developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, the platform is configured with multiple suction cups on bottom portion of the platform for affixing the platform with the surface, a U-shaped extendable member having multiple flaps that is attached with the platform for accommodating multiple tupper ware lids, a pair of motorized pivot joints assembled in between the member and platform provides an angular movement to the member in order to allow a user to position the lids, a touch interactive display panel mounted on the platform enables the user to input details regarding a total number of lids along with their type that the user desires to position over the member, a first sliding arrangement configured in between the member and flaps translates the flaps for creating an ample amount of gaping in between the member as required for accommodating the lids, an artificial intelligence-based image capturing module on the platform to determine a type of lid that the user in holding, wherein based on the type of lid, a laser projection unit installed on the platform for highlighting a best suitable gaping within the flaps in order to allow the user to allow the user to comfortably position the lid in between the highlighted flaps, a color sensor integrated on the platform detects presence of any dirt on the lids, an electronic nozzle connected with a vessel stored with water and configured on the platform to dispense pressurized water over the detected dirt, multiple iris pores installed at base portion of the member for translating any excessive water falling from the lids to a collection chamber installed underneath the member, a level sensor configured within the chamber monitors quantity of water stored within the chamber, and a speaker mounted on the frame notify the user regarding disposal of the collected water.

[0015] 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

[0016] 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 a perspective view of a modular tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] The present invention relates to a modular tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device that assists a user in holding and cleaning of tupper ware lids in accordance to the type and the presence of dirt on the lid, thereby reducing physical efforts as well as saving time of the user.

[0021] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of a modular tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device is illustrated, comprising a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, the platform 101 is configured with multiple suction cups 102 on bottom portion of the platform 101, a U-shaped extendable member 103 having multiple flaps 104, attached with the platform 101, a touch interactive display panel 106 mounted on the platform 101, a first sliding arrangement 107 configured in between the member 103 and flaps 104, an artificial intelligence-based image capturing module 108 mounted on the platform 101, a laser projection unit 109 installed on the platform 101, an electronic nozzle 110 connected with a vessel stored with water and configured on the platform 101, a collection chamber 112 installed underneath the member 103, a speaker 113 mounted on the frame, a motorized air blower 113 is assembled on the platform 101, multiple motorized clamping units 111 are configured on the member 103 and a UV (ultraviolet) sterilizing unit 105 is configured on the platform 101.

[0022] The device disclosed herein includes a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface. The platform 101 is rectangular in shape, made up of stainless steel that offers corrosion resistance, strength and durability to the device and is easy to maintain.

[0023] Multiple suction cups 102 are configured on bottom portion of the platform 101 for affixing the platform 101 with the surface. The suction cups 102 used herein are made up of silicone rubber that easily eliminates pressure inside the suction cup and creating a vacuum between the cup and the surface which creates an air-tight seal, resisting any slipping of the platform 101 in order to affix the platform 101 with the surface.

[0024] Upon affixing the platform 101 with the surface, a U-shaped extendable member 103 having multiple flaps 104, attached with the platform 101 is accessed by the user for accommodating multiple Tupper ware lids. A pair of motorized pivot joints are assembled in between the member 103 and platform 101 for providing an angular movement to the member 103 in order to allow a user to position the lids.

[0025] Upon accommodation of Tupper ware lids in the member 103, a touch interactive display panel 106 mounted on the platform 101 enables the user to input details regarding a total number of lids along with their type that the user desires to position over the member 103. The touch interactive display panel 106 as mentioned herein is typically an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analog signals generated when the user inputs details regarding total number of lids along with their type that the user desires to position over the member 103. A touch controller is typically connected to an inbuilt microcontroller embedded within the platform 101 through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit).

[0026] Based on the input command from the user, the microcontroller actuates a first sliding arrangement 107 configured in between the member 103 and flaps 104 for creating an ample amount of gaping in between the member 103 as required for accommodating the lids in a proper manner. The sliding arrangement 107 consists of a pair of sliding rails fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of a slider is positioned that is further connected with a bi-directional motor via a shaft. The microcontroller actuates the bi-directional motor to rotate in a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction that aids in the rotation of the shaft, wherein the shaft converts the electrical energy into rotational energy for allowing movement of the wheel to translate over the sliding rail by a firm grip on the grooves. The movement of the sliding arrangement 107 results in the translation of the flaps 104 over the member 103 for creating an ample amount of gaping in between the member 103 as required for accommodating the lids.

[0027] Further, an artificial intelligence-based image capturing module 108 mounted on the platform 101 is activated by the microcontroller for capturing and processing multiple images of the user. The imaging capturing module 108 comprises of an image capturing arrangement 107 including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings around the user, and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit in form of an optical data. The imaging capturing module 108 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and determines a type of lid that the user in holding.

[0028] Based on the determined type, the microcontroller actuates a laser projection unit 109 installed on the platform 101 for highlighting a best suitable gaping within the flaps 104 in order to allow the user to allow the user to comfortably position the lid in between the highlighted flaps 104. The laser projection unit 109 consists of a laser source, collimator, collimating lens and a wedge-shaped lens. The laser source generates a laser light beam which passes through a collimator that focus the laser light beam to a focal point. The laser light beam is received by the collimating lens that further collimate the laser light beam beyond the focal point. The laser light is then focused to a wedge-shaped lens having an aperture interposed between the focusing lens and collimating lens. The aperture has a size for passing the laser light beam through mirrors of the projection unit 109 and projects a high-quality laser beam projections on the lid. Thus, the projection of laser light beam on the lid assists the user to comfortably position the lid in between the highlighted flaps 104.

[0029] Upon positioning the lid in between the highlighted flaps 104, a color sensor integrated on the platform 101 detects presence of any dirt on the lids in sync with the imaging unit. The color sensor operates by detecting and analyzing the wavelength of light reflected or emitted by lids to determine the presence of any dirt on the lids. The sensor typically uses phototransistors that are sensitive to different wavelength of light. When light strikes any dirt, the sensor measures the intensity of reflected light across specific color bands. This information is then converted into electrical signal and sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller further processes the signal to determine the presence of any dirt on the lids.

[0030] Based on the determined presence of any dirt on the lids, the microcontroller actuates an electronic nozzle 110 connected with a vessel stored with water and configured on the platform 101 to dispense pressurized water over the detected dirt, in view of eliminating the detected dirt from the lid. The electronic nozzle 110 works by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy, which increases the fluid's velocity to get dispensed. Upon actuation of nozzle 110 by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the water within the vessel, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the solution to get dispensed out with a high force over the lid in view of eliminating the detected dirt from the lid.

[0031] During removal of dirt from the lids, multiple motorized clamping units 111 configured on the member 103 are actuated by sad microcontroller for gripping the lid in a secured manner. The motorized clamping units 111 is a fastening equipment used to hold or secure lid. The clamping units 111 comprises a pair of curved electromagnetic clamps, attached with motor to grip the lid. Upon actuation of the clamping units 111 by the microcontroller, the motor imparts rotational movement to the clamps followed by actuation of the electromagnets to get energized to grip the lid in a secured manner, thereby preventing chances of damage to the lid.

[0032] Upon dispensing water over the lid, multiple iris pores installed at base portion of the member 103 are actuated by the microcontroller for translating any excessive water falling from the lids to collect the water in a chamber 112 installed underneath the member 103. The iris pores, mentioned herein, consists of a ring in bottom configured with multiple slots along periphery, multiple number of blades and blade actuating ring on the top. The blades are pivotally jointed with blade actuating ring and the base plate are hooked over the blade. The blade actuating ring is rotated clock and antilock wise by a DC motor embedded in ball actuating ring which results in opening of the pores to collect the water in the chamber 112.

[0033] A level sensor configured within the chamber 112 monitors quantity of water stored within the chamber 112. The level senor used herein is a pressure-based level sensor which works on the principle that the pressure exerted by a liquid at a specific depth is directly proportional to the height of the liquid column in the sensor. The pressure-based level sensor comprises of a piezoelectric sensing element. When the sensing element is exposed to the liquid within the sensor, some hydrostatic pressure is exerted on the element by the liquid and which varies in accordance to the height of the liquid.

[0034] A pressure transducer converts the hydrostatic pressure exerted by the liquid into an electrical pulse. Further the microcontroller analyses the electrical signal and based on which determine the quantity of the water remaining in the chamber 112. The determined quantity is further processes by the microcontroller to compare the determined value to a threshold value stored within a database linked to the microcontroller. In case the detected quantity exceeds the threshold value, the microcontroller actuates a speaker 113 mounted on the frame to notify the user regarding disposal of the collected water in order to promote sustainable living practices.

[0035] The speaker 113 works by receiving signals from the microcontroller, converting them into sound waves through a diaphragm's vibration, and producing audible sounds with the help of amplification and control circuitry in order to notify the user regarding disposal of the collected water in order to promote sustainable living practices.

[0036] Upon collection of water in the chamber 112, a motorized air blower assembled on the platform 101 is actuated by the microcontroller for blowing air towards the lids in order to dry the lids. The air blower comprises of a vortex, heater, impeller and an outlet duct. The blower increases the pressure of the air drawn for the surrounding of the platform 101 by a series of vortex motions formed by the centrifugal movement of the impeller. Upon actuation of the blower by the microcontroller, the impeller is rotating wherein the channels in the impeller push the drawn air from the surrounding forward through a heating unit, that increase the temperature of the absorbed air by creating the centrifugal movement that generates a helical movement of the air. During this centrifugal movement, the absorbed air is continuously compressed along the channel and the pressure increases linearly. The pressurized air is transferred from the outlet duct of the blower to the surface of the lids in order to dry the lids.

[0037] Additionally, upon cleaning of the lids, a UV (ultraviolet) sterilizing unit 105 configured on the platform 101 is actuated by the microcontroller for sterilizing the lids and eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens from the lids. The UV sterilizing unit 105 comprises of a UV lamp that is effective against all pathogens, bacteria, molds, yeasts, etc. The ultraviolet light emitted by the lamp breaks down the chemical
bonds, thus, scrambling the structure of DNA, RNA and proteins, which kills the microorganisms for sterilizing the lids and eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens from the lids.

[0038] 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 generally 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.

[0039] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the platform 101 is positioned on fixed surface. Multiple suction cups 102 for affixing the platform 101 with the surface. Upon affixing the platform 101 with the surface, the U-shaped extendable member 103 having multiple flaps 104 is accessed by the user for accommodating multiple tupper ware lids. The pair of motorized pivot joints provides angular movement to the member 103 in order to allow the user to position the lids. Upon accommodation of tupper ware lids in the member 103, the touch interactive display panel 106 enables the user to input details regarding total number of lids along with their type that the user desires to position over the member 103. Upon accommodation of tupper ware lids in the member 103, the touch interactive display panel 106. Based on the input command from the user, the microcontroller actuates the first sliding arrangement 107 for creating ample amount of gaping in between the member 103 as required for accommodating the lids in proper manner. Further, the artificial intelligence-based image capturing module 108 is activated by the microcontroller for capturing and processing multiple images of the user to determine the type of lid. Based on the determined type, the microcontroller actuates the laser projection unit 109 for highlighting the best suitable gaping within the flaps 104 in order to allow the user to allow the user to comfortably position the lid in between the highlighted flaps 104. Upon positioning the lid in between the highlighted flaps 104, the color sensor detects presence of any dirt on the lids in sync with the imaging unit. Based on the determined presence of any dirt on the lids, the microcontroller actuates the electronic nozzle 110 to dispense pressurized water over the detected dirt, in view of eliminating the detected dirt from the lid. During removal of dirt from the lids, the multiple motorized clamping units 111 are actuated by sad microcontroller for gripping the lid in a secured manner. Upon dispensing water over the lid, multiple iris pores are actuated by the microcontroller for translating any excessive water falling from the lids to collect the water in the chamber 112. Upon collection of water in the chamber 112, the motorized air blower is actuated by the microcontroller for blowing air towards the lids in order to dry the lids. Upon cleaning of the lids, the UV (ultraviolet) sterilizing unit 105 is actuated by the microcontroller for sterilizing the lids and eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens from the lids.

[0040] 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 individuals skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A modular tupper ware lids holding and cleaning device, comprising:

i) a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface, wherein said platform 101 is configured with multiple suction cups 102 on bottom portion of said platform 101 for affixing said platform 101 with said surface;

ii) a U-shaped extendable member 103 having multiple flaps 104, attached with said platform 101 for accommodating multiple tupper ware lids, wherein a pair of motorized pivot joints are assembled in between said member 103 and platform 101 for providing an angular movement to said member 103 in order to allow a user to position said lids;

iii) a touch interactive display panel 106 mounted on said platform 101 for enabling said user to input details regarding a total number of lids along with their type that said user desires to position over said member 103, wherein an inbuilt microcontroller linked with said panel 106, process said input details and accordingly actuates a first sliding arrangement 107 configured in between said member 103 and flaps 104 for creating an ample amount of gaping in between said member 103 as required for accommodating said lids;

iv) an artificial intelligence-based image capturing module 108 mounted on said platform 101 and linked with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images of said user, respectively to determine a type of lid that said user in holding, wherein based on said type of lid, said microcontroller actuates a laser projection unit 109 installed on said platform 101 for highlighting a best suitable gaping within said flaps 104 in order to allow said user to allow said user to comfortably position said lid in between said highlighted flaps 104;

v) a color sensor integrated on said platform 101 and synced with said imaging unit for detecting presence of any dirt on said lids and in case said dirt is detected, said microcontroller actuates an electronic nozzle 110 connected with a vessel stored with water and configured on said platform 101 to dispense pressurized water over said detected dirt, in view of eliminating said detected dirt from said lid; and

vi) multiple iris pores are installed at base portion of said member 103 for translating any excessive water falling from said lids to a collection chamber 112 installed underneath said member 103, wherein a level sensor is configured within said chamber 112 for monitoring quantity of water stored within said chamber 112, and in case said detected quantity exceeds a threshold value, said microcontroller actuates a speaker 113 mounted on said frame to notify said user regarding disposal of said collected water in order to promote sustainable living practices.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a motorized air blower is assembled on said platform 101 that is actuated by said microcontroller for blowing air towards said lids in order to dry said lids.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of motorized clamping units 111 are configured on said member 103 that are actuated by sad microcontroller for gripping said lid during removal of dirt from said lids.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a UV (ultraviolet) sterilizing unit 105 is configured on said platform 101 that is actuated by said microcontroller upon cleaning of said lids for sterilizing said lids and eliminate harmful bacteria and pathogens from said lids.

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

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