FIELD

The present disclosure relates to the field of food processing and preparing systems.

BACKGROUND The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art.

Conventional food processors are able to perform various tasks related to food preparing and processing tasks such as cutting or peeling vegetables, or preparing dough from flour. However, such food processors are incapable of preparing food such as a roti or a flatbread from processed dough. There are roti making units known in the art which prepare roti(s) or flatbreads using flour and water. However, such roti making units are bulky, and are unsuitable for personal use. Typically, such roti making units are used where large scale production is required. Further, such roti making units are configured to prepare the flatbreads in batches, which is not required for personal use where only few flatbreads are required. Further, such roti making units or food processors do not have any provision to cook food.

Therefore, there is felt a need of a system that can process and prepare food, and alleviates the abovementioned drawbacks of the conventional roti making units or food processors.

OBJECTS Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:

An object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is capable of preparing and processing food.

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is compact in size. Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that can prepare Indian breads. Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a system that is easy to operate and use.

Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. SUMMARY

The present disclosure envisages a system for preparing and processing food. The system comprises a frame, a first cooktop, a second cooktop, a food preparing and processing unit, an actuator assembly, and actuating means. The first cooktop is securely disposed in the frame. The second cooktop is securely disposed in the frame in a spaced apart configuration with the first cooktop, wherein the first cooktop faces the second cooktop. The food preparing and processing unit is removably connected to the frame, and is configured to prepare food. The actuator assembly is removably connected to the frame, and is configured to be rotated and/or displaced in an operative vertical direction to facilitate at least one food preparing and processing operation in the food preparing and processing unit. The actuating means is coupled to the first cooktop, the second cooktop, and the actuator assembly, and is configured to control operation thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING

A system, of the present disclosure, will now be described with the help of the accompanying drawing, in which: Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 2a illustrates an isometric view of the system of Figure 1 depicting a drive mechanism;

Figure 2b illustrates an isometric view of a storage container of the system of the present disclosure;

Figure 2c illustrates another isometric view of the storage container of Figure 2b;

Figure 3 illustrates another isometric view of the system of Figure 1 ; Figure 4 illustrates an isometric view of a screw jack assembly and a slide mechanism for a first cooktop of the system of Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 illustrates a top isometric view depicting a supporting member and a second cooktop of the system of Figure 1 ; Figure 6 illustrates a bottom isometric view of the supporting member and the second cooktop of Figure 5;

Figure 7a illustrates another isometric view of the system depicting an eject mechanism;

Figures 7b and 7c illustrate isometric views of the system depicting the second cooktop;

Figure 8 illustrates a first cam and an oil sprayer assembly of the system; Figure 9 illustrates a top isometric view of a first container of the system;

Figure 10 illustrates a bottom isometric view of the first container of Figure 9;

Figure 11a illustrates another isometric view of the system depicting a dough making utensil and a cutting blade;

Figure l ib illustrates an exploded view of a dough cutting arrangement of the system; Figure 12 illustrates an isometric view of a first cam and a second container;

Figure 13 illustrates a front view of an actuator assembly of the system;

Figure 14 illustrates a sectional view of the actuator assembly of Figure 13;

Figure 15a illustrates an exploded view of a second actuator of the actuator assembly;

Figure 15b illustrates an isometric view of the second actuator; Figure 16 illustrates an isometric view of the actuator assembly;

Figure 17 illustrates another isometric view of the system depicting a flatbread making operation;

Figure 18 illustrates yet another isometric view of the system depicting a stuffed flatbread making operation; Figure 19 illustrates another isometric view of the system depicting a chopping tray and a pushing member;

Figure 20a illustrates an exploded view of a juicer unit of the system;

Figure 20b illustrates a sectional view of the juicer unit; Figure 20c illustrates an isometric view of the juicer unit;

Figure 21 illustrates an isometric view of the system depicting a second peeling unit;

Figure 22 illustrates an isometric view of a fourth container and a noodle making tool of the system;

Figure 23 illustrates an isometric view of the system depicting a third peeling unit; and Figure 24 illustrates an isometric view of a second eject mechanism;

Figure 25 illustrates an isometric view of the second eject mechanism depicting the arrangement of the same in the system of the present disclosure;

Figure 26 illustrates an exploded view of the first cooktop and a griddle; and

Figure 27 illustrates an isometric view of the first cooktop and the griddle. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

100 - System

105 - Frame

107 - Access doors

109 - Pocket 111 - Cover

115 - First cooktop

120 -Second cooktop

122 - Flat pan/Griddle 123 - Circular gear teeth

124 - Gear

125 - Frame

126 - Hole

130 - Actuator assembly

135 - First motor

140 - Second motor

145 - Height adjusting mechanism 150 - Screw jack assembly 152 - Sliding mechanism

155 - First clutch

160 - Bevel gears

165 - Supporting member 170 - Locking mechanism 175 - First heater

177 - Grating member

180 - First cam

182 - Cutting blade

185 - Third motor

190 - First container

195 - Dough making utensil 200 -Hole

205 - Flap

210 -Second cam

215 - Fourth motor 217 - Gears

225 - First actuator 230 - Second actuator

235 - First pulley drive

236 - Second pulley drive 240 - First pulley

245 - Second pulley 250 - Internal threads 255 - Threaded member 260 - Stopper

265 - Extension

270 - Dough preparing tool 275 - Rotary member 277 - Flange

280 - Stationary member 282 - Thrust bearing

283 - Bearing 285 - Split nut

290 - Pushing plate

295 - Piston

300 - First wire rope assembly 302 - Piston rod

305 - Guide

310 - Ratchet mechanism

315 - Peeling blade

320 - Screw

322 - Gear drive

325 - Nut

330 - Limiter

335 - Chopping blade

340 - Chopping tray

345 - Pushing member

350 - Juicer unit

351 - Conical separator

352 - Stationary member

354 - Filter

356 - Rotating member

357 - Chopper and cleaner assembly 358 - Chopping blade

359 - Cleaning blades

360 - Pusher

361 - Cover

362 - Passage

363 - Protrusions

364 - Cavity

365 - Peeler tool

370 - Peeler utensil 375 - Fourth container

380 - Noodle making tool 390 - First Conveyor 395 - Guiding member 400 - Second container 405 - Stuffing tool

410 - Hole

415 - First eject mechanism 420 - Oil sprayer 430 - Third container 435 - Dough shaper

455 - Peeling blade 460 - First holder

465 - Second holder

470 - Mesh

475 - Pusher

480 - Pin

485 - Slot

500 - Second eject mechanism 505 - Fifth motor

510 - Threaded member 515 - Ejector blade

520 - Guide

530 - Storage container

535- Support

540 - Provision

550 - Motor

560 - Second conveyor

570 - Dough cutting arrangement

575 - First member

576 - Blade

580 - Second member

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing.

Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details, are set forth, relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail. The terminology used, in the present disclosure, is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology shall not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms "a”, "an", and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms "comprises", "comprising",“including”, and“having” are open ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, modules, units and/or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The particular order of steps disclosed in the method and process of the present disclosure is not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance as described or illustrated. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element is referred to as being "mounted on",“engaged to”, "connected to", or "coupled to" another element, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements. The terms first, second, third, etc., should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure as the aforementioned terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another component, region, layer or section. Terms such as first, second, third etc., when used herein do not imply a specific sequence or order unless clearly suggested by the present disclosure. Terms such as“inner”,“outer”, "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", and the like, may be used in the present disclosure to describe relationships between different elements as depicted from the figures.

The present disclosure envisages a system for making and processing food.

Referring to Figure 1 through 27, a system 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

The system 100 comprises a frame 105, a first cooktop 115, a second cooktop 120, a food preparing and processing unit, an actuator assembly 130, and an actuating means. The frame 105 has various compartments to store other components of the system 100. In an embodiment, the frame 105 is of a metallic material or non-metallic material.

The first cooktop 115 securely disposed in the frame 105.

The second cooktop 120 is securely disposed in the frame 105 and spaced apart from the first cooktop 115 such that the first cooktop 115 faces the second cooktop 120.

The food preparing and processing unit is removably connected to the frame 105, and is configured to prepare and process food. The food preparing and processing unit includes various utensils required for performing various food preparing and processing tasks.

In an embodiment, the food preparing and processing unit is selected from the group consisting of a roti maker, a juicer unit, and a vegetable cutting unit.

The actuator assembly 130 is removably connected to the frame 105, and is configured to be rotated and/or displaced in an operative vertical direction.

The actuating means is coupled to the first cooktop 115, the second cooktop 120, and the actuator assembly 130. The actuating means is configured to control the operation of the first cooktop 115, the second cooktop 120, and the actuator assembly 130.

In an embodiment, the actuating means includes a first motor 135, a second motor 140, and a control unit. The first motor 135 is coupled to the actuator assembly 130, and is selectively coupled to the first cooktop 115. The system 100 comprises a height adjusting mechanism 145 selectively coupled to the first motor 135, and configured to displace the first cooktop 115 in an operative vertical direction. In an embodiment, the height adjusting mechanism 145 comprises a screw jack assembly 150 and a first clutch 155. The screw jack assembly 150 is coupled to the first cooktop 115. In an embodiment, the first cooktop 115 is slidably mounted on the screw jack assembly 150 such that the first cooktop 115 can be pulled out of the frame 105. The first cooktop 115 is mounted on the screw jack assembly 150 using a slide mechanism 152. The slide mechanism 152 includes a plurality of rollers and channels to facilitate rolling of the first cooktop 115 thereon.

The first clutch 155 is coupled to the screw jack assembly 150, and is configured to selectively couple the screw jack assembly 150 to the first motor 135. More specifically, when the first motor 135 is actuated and coupled to the screw jack assembly 150 via the first clutch 155, the screw jack assembly 150 displaces the first cooktop 115 vertically upwards and downwards. In an embodiment, the first clutch 155 is coupled to the screw jack assembly 150 via a pair of bevel gears 160.

It should be noted that the change in the direction of rotation of the first motor 135 alters the direction of movement of the screw jack assembly 150.

The second motor 140 is coupled to the second cooktop 120, and is configured to displace the second cooktop 120. The second motor 140 is coupled to the second cooktop 120 via a screw. Further, the second motor 140 is configured to displace the second cooktop 120 such that the second cooktop 120 travels beyond the frame 105.

In an embodiment, the system 100 comprises a supporting member 165 configured to support the second cooktop 120 in the frame 105. The supporting member 165 is slidably mounted in the frame 105.

The second cooktop 120 is detachably coupled to the supporting member 165 via a locking mechanism 170. More specifically, the second cooktop 120 is hingeably connected to the supporting member 165 such that when the second cooktop 120 is detached from the supporting member 165 (by unlocking the locking mechanism 170), the second cooktop 120 rotates about the hinged joint on the supporting member 165, and is now ready for performing any cooking operation thereon (as shown in Figures 7b and 7c). The supporting member 165 is displaceable with the second cooktop 120. The second motor 140 is coupled to the supporting member 165 to displace the supporting member 165 and the second cooktop 120 simultaneously. The frame 105 comprises access doors 107 configured to prevent unauthorized access to the first cooktop 115 and the second cooktop 120. The access doors 107 and lower portion of the frame 105 define an oven.

Each of the first cooktop 115 and the second cooktop 120 is provided with a flat pan 122 (specifically, a flatbread pan) or a griddle. In an embodiment, the flat pans 122 or griddles are used in flatbread making operations. During cooking operations other than the flatbread making operations, the flat pan 122 is removed from the cooktops 115, 120 and utensils are directly kept on the cooktops 115, 120. In another embodiment, the flat pans 122 are hingeably connected to the first cooktop 115 and the second cooktop 120.

In an embodiment, the flat pan 122 is rotatably mounted on the first cooktop 115. Circular gear teeth 123 are configured on the bottom surface of the flat pan 122. Further, a gear 124 is connected to the first cooktop 115 as shown in Figures 26 and 27. In an embodiment, the gear 124 is a spur gear or a helical gear. The pitch and profile of the gear teeth of the gear 124 are complementary to that of the circular gear teeth 123. Further, a frame 125 is mounted on the first cooktop 115. The frame 125 has a central hole 126 configured to receive the flat pan 122. The gear 124 is rotated by a motor which is controlled by the control unit.

The system 100 further includes a first heater 175 and a second heater. The first heater 175 is connected to the supporting member 165, and is displaceable with the supporting member 165. The first heater 175 is tiltable. The second heater is stationary. Both the first heater 175 and the second heater are arranged between the supporting member 165 and the first cooktop 115. Further, a heat resistant material is disposed around the first cooktop 115. Such arrangement reduces the volume of the oven in which the first cooktop 115 is disposed, thereby reducing the heat requirement of the oven.

In an embodiment, additional heaters are provided around the first cooktop 115 to facilitate better baking operation.

The system 100 further includes a grating member 177 disposed below the first heater 175. In an embodiment, the grating member 177 is secured to the supporting member 165, and is displaceable with it. The grating member 177 prevents contact of a flatbread or roti with the first heater 175. Further, the system includes a blade connected to grating member 177 or the supporting member 165. The blade is configured to be displaced with the supporting member 165. The blade is particularly useful to spread batter on the first cooktop 115 in dosa making operation or any other similar operation.

The system 100 further includes a first cam 180 hingeably connected to the supporting member 165. The first cam 180 is displaceable with the supporting member 165. The system 100 includes a first conveyor 390 and a guiding member 395 arranged proximal to the first conveyor 390. In an embodiment, as shown in Figure 2b and 2c, the system 100 further includes a storage container 530 supported on a support 535 and a second conveyor 560 coupled to a motor 550. The storage container 530 is configured to store stuffing therewithin, which is required for making a stuffed roti. The storage container 530 is provided with a provision that allows outflow of stuffing from the storage container 530. The provision 540 is configured and arranged such that the outflow of stuffing is received on the second conveyor 560. The second conveyor 560 is arranged such that stuffing received on the second conveyor 560 is conveyed to the guiding member 395.

The system 100 further includes a cutting blade 182 and a third motor 185. The cutting blade 182 is disposed in the frame 105, and is displaced using the drive of the third motor 185. The third motor 185 is coupled to the cutting blade 182, and is configured to linearly displace the cutting blade 182. More specifically, the cutting blade 182 is mounted on a screw such that angular motion of the screw results in linear displacement of the cutting blade 182. The third motor 185 is coupled to the screw, and configured to angularly displace the screw. The control unit is in communication with the first motor 135, the second motor 140, and the third motor 185. The control unit is configured to control the operation of the first motor 135, the second motor 140, the third motor 185, and the first clutch 155.

In an embodiment, the control unit includes a processor, a controller, and actuators. Further, the control unit includes a display unit to receive commands from a user, and to display any other useful information to the user. The processor is pre-configured with programmed code to control the operation of the first motor 135, the second motor 140, the third motor 185, and the first clutch 155 upon receiving user commands.

The food preparing and processing unit includes various utensils and tools configured to perform various food processing and preparing tasks. The system 100 includes a first eject mechanism 415 disposed within the frame 105, and is configured to be actuated when the supporting member 165 is displaced to an extreme position thereof. In an embodiment, the eject mechanism 415 includes a linkage arrangement which, when rotated, ejects the flatbread from the first cooktop 115 to a specific location.

The system 100 further includes a second eject mechanism 500 as shown in Figure 24 and Figure 25. The second eject mechanism 500 includes a fifth motor 505 mounted on the supporting member 165, a threaded member 510 coupled to the fifth motor 505 and extending downwards, and an ejector blade 515. The ejector blade 515 is mounted on the threaded member 510, and is configured to be angularly displaced when said threaded member 510 is rotated. The ejector blade 515 removes flatbreads or food items disposed/prepared on the first cooktop 115. The second eject mechanism 500 includes a guide 520 that guides the ejector blade 515. The eject mechanism 500 is displaceable along with the supporting member 165. Thus, the eject mechanism 500 can be laterally displaced by displacing the supporting member 165, and the height of the ejector blade 515 can be altered by operating the fifth motor 505 to rotate the threaded member 510. The operation of the fifth motor 505 is controlled by the control unit.

In an embodiment, one of the first eject mechanism 415 and the second eject mechanism 500 is implemented in the system 100. In another embodiment, both first eject mechanism 415 and the second eject mechanism 500 are implemented in the system 100.

The system 100 further includes an oil sprayer 420 connected to the first cam 180 and is displaceable with the first cam 180. The oil sprayer 420 is configured to periodically spray oil on the first cooktop 115. In an embodiment, the oil sprayer 420 is coupled to an actuating member configured to periodically actuate the oil sprayer 420 to spread the oil. In another embodiment, the actuating member has a profile having crests and trough such that oil is spread when the oil sprayer 420 travels on the crest portion of the profile.

The food preparing and processing unit includes a first container 190 and a dough making utensil 195. The first container 190 is configured to store flour and water therein. In an embodiment, the first container 190 has separate compartments for storing flour and water. Further, the first container 190 is configured to be connected to the frame 105, and has a central passage to facilitate the actuator assembly 130 to pass therethrough. In an embodiment, the dough making utensil 195 has a conical shape. The first container 190 includes a hole 200 configured at an operative bottom surface of the first container 190 to facilitate outflow of flour. The water storage compartment of the first container 190 is provided with a conduit to facilitate outflow of the water. A control mechanism is provided with the conduit to control outflow of water. The control unit is configured to control the operation of the control mechanism. In an embodiment, the control mechanism includes a flow control valve. A release mechanism is configured at the bottom surface of the first container 190 to selectively allow outflow of flour. The release mechanism comprises a flap 205, a second cam 210, and a fourth motor 215. The flap 205 is configured to seal the hole 200. The second cam 210 is configured to selectively close the passage through the hole 200. The fourth motor 215 is coupled to the first container 190, and is configured to angularly displace the first container 190 to close the passage using the cam 210 and the flap 205. The cam 210 is stationary. The control unit is in communication with the fourth motor 215, and is configured to control the operation of the fourth motor 215. In an embodiment, the fourth motor 215 is coupled to the first container 190 via a pair of gears 217. When the first container 190 is rotated, the second cam 210 displaces the flap 205 such that the passage is closed.

The dough making utensil 195 is configured to be removably connected to the frame 105, and further configured to receive flour and water from the first container 190. The dough making utensil 195 has a passage to facilitate outflow of a dough formed within the dough making utensil 195.

The first container 190 and the dough making utensil 195 are arranged in a spaced apart configuration on the frame 105 in a vertical configuration. More specifically, the first container 190 and the dough making utensil 195 are arranged coaxial such that flour and water released from the first container 190 is received in the dough making utensil 195.

The first container 190 and the dough making utensil 195 are removably connected to the frame 105.

The food preparing and processing unit includes a second container 400 configured to be received in the frame 105, and is configured to be displaced along the profile of the first cam 180 when the first cam 180 is displaced. The second container 400 is configured to receive stuffing therein. The second container 400 has two parts, viz., a stuffing receiving cylindrical portion and a closing member for closing the bottom of the stuffing receiving portion. The closing member is configured to move up and down along with the first cam 180. The food preparing and processing unit further includes a stuffing tool 405 configured to be arranged coaxial above the second container 400 in a spaced apart configuration, and is further configured to be connected to the actuator assembly 130. The stuffing tool 405 has a hollow configuration and a hole 410 configured at an operative bottom surface thereof. In an embodiment, the stuffing tool 405 has a hemispherical bottom surface.

The food preparing and processing unit further includes a third container 430 and a dough shaper 435. The third container 430 is configured to be mounted on the cutting blade 182, and is displaceable with it. The third container 430 is configured to store oil therewithin. The dough shaper 435 is configured to provide a predetermined shape to stuffed dough, and is connected to the third container 430. In an embodiment, the dough shaper 435 has two arms.

The actuator assembly 130 includes a first actuator 225 and a second actuator 230. The first actuator 225 is coupled to the first motor. The first actuator 225 is configured to be rotated about its longitudinal axis. The second actuator 230 is connected to an operative bottom portion of the first actuator 225, and is configured to be displaced in an operative vertical direction when actuated. More specifically, the second actuator 230 is displaced in the operative vertical direction when it is actuated and the first actuator 225 is rotated about its longitudinal axis.

In an embodiment, the first actuator 225 comprises a first pulley drive 235, a hollow threaded member 255, and a stopper 260. The first pulley drive 235 is configured to couple the first actuator 225 to the first motor 135. The first pulley drive 235 has a first pulley 240 selectively coupled to an output shaft of the first motor 135, and a hollow second pulley 245 coupled to the first pulley 240 via a belt. The second pulley 245 is provided with internal threads 250. In an embodiment, the second pulley 245 is provided with a hole configured at an operative bottom surface of the second pulley 245, and the internal threads 250 are configured on the hole.

In an embodiment, a second clutch is configured to selectively couple the first motor 135 to the first pulley drive 235, more specifically to the first pulley 240. The operation of the second clutch is controlled by the control unit.

The hollow threaded member 255 is partially disposed in the second pulley 245. The hollow threaded member 255 has external threads configured to be engaged with the internal threads 250. The stopper 260 is configured to selectively prevent rotation of the threaded member 255 with the second pulley 245. In an embodiment, the stopper 260 is connected to the frame 105.

In an embodiment, the threaded member 255 has an extension 265 configured at an operative top surface thereof to receive the stopper 260. Further, when the threaded member 255 is at its extreme lowermost position, the extension 265 rests on the inner bottom surface of the second pulley 245. In an embodiment, the length of the stopper 260 in the second pulley 245 is lesser than the length of the second pulley 245. More specifically, the length of the stopper 260 is determined such that the stopper 260 does not extend upto the inner bottom surface of the second pulley 245, when the stopper 260 is received in the second pulley 245. The stopper 260 has a spring on top and connected to a solenoid actuator. When the solenoid actuator is actuated, the stopper 260 is pulled down against the spring. When the direction of the rotation of the first motor 135 is reversed, the threaded member 255 moves upward.

In an operative configuration, the second pulley 245 is rotated by the first motor 135. Initially, the stopper 260 is engaged with the threaded member 255. Thus, the threaded member 255 does not rotate with the second pulley 245 due to the engagement of the stopper 260. Due to the engagement of the threads between the threaded member 255 and the second pulley 245, the threaded member 255 is displaced downwards. When the threaded member 255 is displaced downwards beyond the length of the stopper 260, the threaded member 255 rotates with the second pulley. The length of the stopper 260 is determined as per the application requirement and distance between the second pulley 245 and a utensil disposed underneath the actuator assembly 130.

The system 100 includes a second pulley drive 236 (as shown in Figure 2a and Figure 11a) coupled to the first motor 135. Various food cooking or processing units can be mounted on one of the pulleys of the second pulley drive 236, and can be operated using the second pulley drive 236 and the first motor 135.

Although the present disclosure is described with reference to the first pulley drive 235 and the second pulley drive 236, any other drive mechanism is well within the scope and ambit of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, a gear drive is used in place of the first pulley drive 235 and the second pulley drive 236.

In an embodiment, the stuffing receiving cylindrical portion of the second container 400 is mounted on the pulley of the second pulley drive 236. In an embodiment, the food preparing and processing unit includes a dough preparing tool 270. The dough preparing tool 270 is configured to be connected to the operative bottom surface of the actuator assembly 130, and further configured to be rotated with the actuator assembly 130. In an embodiment, the dough preparing tool 270 is connected to the bottom portion of the second actuator 230. In an embodiment, the dough preparing tool 270 has a plurality of blunt blades. In an embodiment, the dough preparing tool 270 has two sets of blunt blades, i.e., upper blades and lower blades. The lower blades are smaller than the upper blades.

The second actuator 230 comprises a rotary member 275, a stationary member 280, a split nut 285, a thrust bearing 282, a piston 295, a first wire rope assembly 300, and a second wire rope assembly. The rotary member 275 is coupled to the operative bottom portion of the first actuator 225. In an embodiment, the second actuator 230 comprises an internally threaded flange 277. The flange 277 is attached to the bottom portion of the first actuator 225. Further, the rotary member 275 is connected to the flange 277 such that the rotary member 275 rotates with the first actuator 225. In an embodiment, the rotary member 275 has a base and a plurality of extending members extending upwardly from the base such that space is defined between the extending members. The stationary member 280 is disposed in the rotary member 275. In an embodiment, the stationary member 280 is disposed in the rotary member 275 using bearings 283. The bearings 283 prevent rotation of the stationary member 280 with the rotary member 275. The stationary member 280 is provided with pulleys configured to guide the first wire and rope assembly 300.

The split nut 285 is mounted on an operative inner bottom surface of the rotary member 275. In an embodiment, a pair of springs is disposed between the split nut 285. The thrust bearing 282 is disposed between the stationary member 280 and the split nut 285. The thrust bearing 282 is provided with a protruded part. The protruded part of the thrust bearing 282 is configured to guide the first wire rope assembly 300 to pass over the pulleys.

The piston 295 extends outwardly from the bottom portion of the rotary member 275. The piston 295 has a piston rod 302 having external threads engageable with the internal threads of the split nut 285. Further, the first wire rope assembly 300 is connected to the thrust bearing 282. The first wire rope assembly 300 is configured to push the thrust bearing 282 operatively downwards to engage the split nut 285 with the piston 295 when the first wire rope assembly 300 is actuated. Further, the second actuator 230 includes a pushing plate 290 disposed between the thrust bearing 282 and the split nut 285. The pushing plate 290 is provided with rollers. When the thrust bearing 282 is pushed downwards, the pushing plate 290 is also pushed downwards. The downward movement of the pushing plate 290 results in engagement of the split nut 285 with the piston rod 302.

In an embodiment, the system 100 includes a solenoid actuator. The solenoid actuator is configured to control the operation of the first wire rope assembly 300. More specifically, one end of the first wire rope assembly 300 is connected to the thrust bearing 282, whereas the other end is connected to the solenoid actuator. The control unit is configured to control the operation of the solenoid actuator. When the solenoid actuator is actuated, it pulls the first wire rope assembly 300 upwards when the actuation signal received from the control unit. When the first wire rope assembly 300 is pulled upwardly, the thrust bearing 282 and the pushing plate 290 move downwardly to engage the split nut 285 with the piston rod 302. When the split nut 285 is engaged with the piston rod 302, the springs between the split nut 285 are compressed. When the control unit de-actuates the solenoid actuator, the split nut 285 is disengaged from the piston rod 302 due to the expansion of the springs.

As the second pulley 245 and the threaded member 255 are hollow, the second actuator 230 is at least partially received in the threaded member 255 and the second pulley 245.

The system 100 further includes a guide 305 disposed in the second pulley 245 and the hollow threaded member 255, and connected to the frame 105. The guide 305 has a plurality of slots to receive the rope, the piston rod 302, and the stationary member 280 to pass therethrough.

In an embodiment, the stationary member 280 is provided with a key configured to be received in respective slot of the guide 305. The piston rod 302 has a notch configured to be received in respective slot of the guide 305. The guide 305 prevents the rotational motion of the piston rod 302.

The second wire rope assembly is configured to hold the second actuator 230 at its place when the split nut 285 is not engaged with the piston rod 302. The system 100 includes a ratchet mechanism 310 coupled to the second wire rope assembly, and configured to control the operation of the second wire rope assembly. In an embodiment, the system includes a drum around which the wire of the second wire rope assembly is wound. The drum is rotated by any known mechanism to either wound or unwound the wire. The ratchet mechanism 310 is connected to the drum, and prevents winding or unwinding of the wire when the drum is not rotating.

In an operative configuration, the solenoid actuator pulls the rope of the first wire rope assembly 300 upwards, thereby downwardly moving the thrust bearing 282. This results in engagement of the split nut 285 with the piston 295. As the rotary member 275 is rotating with the first actuator 225, the piston 295 gets displaced linearly downwards. In an embodiment, the dough preparing tool 270 has a central passage configured to allow the piston 295 of the second actuator 230 to pass therethrough.

It should be noted that the change in the direction of rotation of the first motor 135 alters the direction of movement (both linear and rotational) of the first actuator 225 and the piston 295.

A flatbread (or roti) preparing operation using the system 100 is now described with reference to Figure 1, Figure 4, Figure 7a, Figure 9, Figure 10, Figure 11a, and Figure 17.

Initially, the actuator assembly 130 is connected to the frame 105 such that the first motor 135 can drive the actuator assembly 130 when actuated. Further, the first container 190 is attached to the frame 105. The dough making utensil 195 is mounted on the frame 105 at predetermined location. The dough preparing tool 270 is connected to the actuator assembly 130 at the bottom portion thereof. Further, flour and water are disposed in the first container 190. The system 100 is then actuated. The control unit actuates the actuator assembly 130 to lower the first actuator 225 upto a level such that the outlet passage of the dough making utensil 195 is closed. One of the access doors 107 is opened to receive the flatbread. Once the actuator assembly 130 seals the passage, the control unit releases flour from the first container 190 by actuating the release mechanism. Once enough flour is received in the dough making utensil 195, the discharge of flour is stopped. The control mechanism is then actuated to allow outflow of water. Once enough water is received, the first actuator 225 is actuated by the control unit to rotate the dough preparing tool 270. When the dough preparing tool 270 starts rotating, water is added in flour. The rotation of the dough preparing tool 270 forms the dough in the dough making utensil 195. Once the dough is formed, the cutting blade 182 is displaced by the control unit and is arranged at the center of the dough making utensil 195. The first actuator 225 is then raised to its original position by actuating the first motor 135 in the reverse direction. The prepared dough ball falls into a lower portion of the dough making utensil 195. Further, the second cooktop 120 is displaced out of the frame 105, thereby exposing the first cooktop 115 to the dough making utensil 195. The cutting blade 182 is displaced away from the dough making utensil 195, and the actuator assembly 130 is lowered down. The second actuator 230 is then actuated, and the dough in the dough making utensil 195 is pressed downwards by the piston 295. The cutting blade 182 is then again displaced to cut the dough exiting the dough making utensil 195 into small balls.

The system 100 includes a dough cutting arrangement 570. The dough cutting arrangement 570 is attached below dough making utensil 195. The dough cutting arrangement 570 includes a first member 575 and the second member 580. The second member 580 is removably mounted on the second pulley drive 236. The first member 575 is stationary and is provided with a blade 576. The blade 576 helps in shaping of the dough ball, and also facilitates removal of dough stuck to the walls of the dough making utensil 195.

The dough ball is received on the first cooktop 115. Now, the second cooktop 120 is displaced such that it faces the first cooktop 115. The height adjusting mechanism 145 is then actuated. The first cooktop 115 goes up and presses the dough ball to form a flatbread. The first cooktop 115 is then lowered upto half of the total height to which it can be raised. The first heater 175 is then displaced such that it is above the center of the first cooktop 115. The first heater 175 and the second heater facilitate baking and puffing of the flatbread. Once the flatbread is baked and puffed, the first cooktop 115 is lowered to the lowermost position of the height actuating mechanism 145. The flatbread is then ejected out by using the eject mechanism 415.

A stuffed flatbread (or roti) preparing operation using the system 100 is now described with reference to Figure 2a, Figure 8, Figure 12, and Figure 18.

Initially, the oil sprayer 420 is connected to the first cam 180. The stuffing tool 405 is filled with required stuffing and is connected to the actuator assembly 130, more specifically, to the second actuator 230 at the bottom portion thereof. Further, the second container 400 is removably fitted in the frame 105, more specifically, on the second pulley drive 236. Dough balls are placed on the first conveyor 390. The guiding member 395 is adjusted such that the dough balls, when received in the guiding member 395, are guided into the second container 400. The operation of the guiding member 395 can be manual or automatic. From the first conveyor, one ball is guided at a time to fall into the second container 400. The third container 430 is displaced, and is brought below the stuffing tool 405. The first actuator 225 is actuated to dip the stuffing tool 405 in the oil contained within the third container 430. The first actuator 225 is then again actuated to raise the stuffing tool 405 above the third container 430. The third container 430 is then displaced away from the stuffing tool 405. The first cam 180 is then displaced such that the second container 400 now rests on the middle portion of the first cam 180. The first actuator 225 is now actuated to bring the stuffing tool 405 in close proximity of the second container 400. The stuffing tool 405 is now rotated using the first actuator 225 to make cup shaped balls. The first cam 180 is then again displaced such that the second container 400 now rests on the lower portion of the first cam 180. The second actuator 230 is then again actuated to push stuffing within the stuffing tool 405 into the cup shaped dough balls. The stuffing tool 405 is then displaced away from the second container 400 by actuating the first actuator 225 in reverse direction. The first cam 180 is then displaced such that the second container 400 now rests on the middle portion of the first cam 180. This results in aligning the opening of the stuffed dough ball with the dough shaper 435. The cutting blade 182 is then displaced towards the stuffed ball to close open sides of the stuffed ball using the dough shaper 435. Once the open sides of the ball are closed, the shaper tool 435 pushes the stuffing ball in a direction opposite to that of the shaper tool 435. The stuffed dough ball is then dropped on the first cooktop 115. The stuffed flatbread is then prepared by the similar process described earlier for making flatbread from a dough ball.

In an embodiment, the stuffing tool 405 has a flat bottom surface. In this case, the dough ball is initially flattened using the flat bottom of the stuffing tool 405. Further, stuffing is disposed on the dough balls. The dough balls take U-shape due to the weight of stuffing.

In an embodiment, along with stuffing tool 405, the storage container 530 is used. Stuffing received on the second conveyor 560 is conveyed to the guiding member 395. Further, the guiding member 395 guides stuffing to fall in the second container 400. Stuffing is allowed to be received in the second container 400 once the dough ball gets the cup-shape.

The food preparing and processing unit includes a first peeling unit. The first peeling unit is configured to peel an edible item disposed on the frame at predetermined location. The peeling unit comprises a peeling blade 315, a screw 320, a nut 325, and a limiter 330. The screw 320 is coupled to the first motor 135 via a gear drive 322. Further, the nut 325 is rotatably mounted on the screw 320. The peeling blade 315 is mounted on the nut 325, and is configured to peel the item. The nut 325 is configured to linearly displace the peeling blade 315 when the screw 320 is rotated. The limiter 330 is configured to limit the linear displacement of the peeling blade 315. More specifically, the limiter 330 is in communication with the control unit. When the peeling blade 315 abuts the limiter 330, the limiter 330 transmits a signal to the control unit. Upon receiving the signal, the control unit de-actuates the first motor 135 to limit further advance of the peeling blade 315. To perform a peeling operation, an edible item to be peeled is placed at the predetermined location. The control unit couples the screw 320 to the first motor 135 and subsequently actuates the first motor 135. The peeling blade 315 is then displaced to peel the item. Upon completion of the operation, the control unit disengages the screw 320 from the first motor 135.

The food preparing and processing unit further includes a chopping blade 335, a chopping tray 340, and a pushing member 345. The chopping blade 335 is configured to be rotated by the first motor 135. In an embodiment, the chopping blade 335 is coupled to the first motor 135 via the second pulley and belt drive 236. In another embodiment, the chopping blade 335 has a plurality of sharp cutting edges extending from a supporting portion of the chopping blade 335. The chopping tray 340 is configured to be received in the frame 105, and is further configured to provide a passage to the chopping blade to pass therethrough. More specifically, the frame 105 has a pocket 109 with a cover 111 to receive the chopping tray 340. The pushing member 345 is disposed in the chopping tray 340, and is configured to be displaced along the length of the chopping tray 340. In an embodiment, the pushing member 345 is either coupled to the first motor 135, the second motor 140, or the third motor 185. When the pushing member 345 is displaced towards the chopping blade 335, food items to be chopped are pushed towards the chopping blade 335.

In an operative configuration, the chopping blade 335 is coupled to the pulley of the second pulley drive 236 such that it gets coupled with the first motor 135. The chopping tray 340 is filled with food items to be chopped. In an embodiment, the frame 105 has a flap to provide access to the chopping tray 340. Once the chopping tray 340 is inserted in the frame 105, the control unit actuates the first motor 135 and the other motor to which the pushing member 345 is coupled. The rotation of the chopping blade 335 results in chopping of the food items.

The food preparing and processing unit further includes a juicer unit 350 as shown in Figures 20a, 20b, and 20c. The juicer unit 350 includes a stationary member 352, a filter 354 disposed in the stationary member 352, a rotating member 356 at least partially disposed in the stationary member 352 and circumscribing the filter 354. The filter 354 has a circular cross section and a hollow body. The body has fine mesh like structure to allow only liquid to flow in and out of the filter 354 and prevent semi-solid or pulp in the filter 354. The juicer unit 350 further includes a chopper and cleaner assembly 357. The chopper and cleaner assembly 357 is disposed in the filter 354. The chopper and cleaner assembly 357 has a chopping blade 358 that cuts slices of fruits into even smaller pieces. The chopping blade 358 has a pusher 360 attached to its operative bottom surface. The chopper and cleaner assembly 357 is attached to the actuator assembly 130 that rotates the chopper and cleaner assembly 357 when actuated. The chopper and cleaner assembly 357 further comprises cleaning blades 359 configured to clean the inner portion of the filter 354. The rotating member 356 has a conical configuration, and has internal helical threads. A cover 361 is provided on the stationary member 352. The cover 361 has an opening to provide access to the chopper and cleaner assembly 357 to get connected with the actuator assembly 130. The cover 361 further includes a passage 362 to allow slices of the fruits to reach to the upper surface of the stationary member 352. In an operative configuration, the fruit slices are introduced in the juicer unit 350 through the passage 362. While passing through the passage 362, the fruit slices are cut into smaller lumps by the chopping blade 358. Further, a plurality of protrusions 363 are provided on the upper surface of the stationary member 352. The pusher 360 pushes the lumps of the fruit to pass through the protrusions 363, thereby making even smaller lumps of the fruit. The lumps of the fruits then introduced in the rotating member 356 through a cavity 364 configured on the stationary member 352. The lumps are squeezed between the conical rotating member 356 and the filter 354. The juice is then taken out from the center portion of the stationary member 352 through the filter 354. The pulp is received from the portion between the filter 354 and the rotating member 356.

In an embodiment, the rotating member 356 is coupled to the actuating means. More specifically, the rotating member 356 is mounted on the central pulley drive, i.e., the second pulley drive 236.

The juicer unit 350 further comprises a conical separator 351 connected to the bottom portion of the assembly of the stationary member 352 and the rotating member 356. The conical separator 351 separates the juice and the pulp. Thus, the juicer unit 350 provides the juice and the pulp separately at the same time.

In an embodiment, the juicer unit 350 is mounted on the second pulley drive 236, and is operated using the second pulley drive 236 and the first motor 135.

The food preparing and processing unit further includes a second peeling unit. The second peeling unit includes a peeler tool 365 configured to be removably connected to the actuator assembly 130 or the second pulley drive 236, and a peeler utensil 370 arranged coaxial beneath the peeler tool 365. The peeler tool 365 is provided with blades/extensions extending away from the body of the peeler tool 365. The blades/extensions are configured to move/rotate the vegetables to be peeled placed in the peeler utensil 370.

The vegetable to be peeled is placed in the peeler utensil 370. The peeler tool 365 is rotated by activating the actuator assembly 130 to peel the vegetable in the peeler utensil 370. The peeler tool 365 has a plurality of sharp extruded portions configured to peel the vegetable. Similar portions are also provided on an inner surface of the peeler utensil 370.

The food preparing and processing unit further includes a noodle making unit. The noodle making unit includes a fourth container 375 and a noodle making tool 380. The fourth container 375 is configured to receive dough of required material for noodles, and is arranged coaxial with the actuator assembly 130. The fourth container 375 has a passage to facilitate outflow of the dough. The noodle making tool 380 is arranged beneath the fourth container 375 such that the dough exiting the fourth container 375 through the passage is received by the tool 380. The noodle making tool 380 has a plurality of holes extending axially from a top surface of the tool 380 to a bottom surface of the tool 380. When the dough in the fourth container is pressed downwards using the actuator assembly 130, the dough travels through the tool 380, and noodles are formed. Such noodles can be cooked instantly by placing a cooking pot on the first cooktop 115 such that the noodles exiting the tool 380 are received in the cooking pot.

The food preparing and processing unit further includes a third peeling unit for a peeling operation. The peeling tool 450 includes a peeling blade 455 mounted on the same screw on which the cutting blade 182 is mounted. The third motor 185 displaces the peeling blade 455. Further the third peeling unit includes a first holder 460 and a second holder 465. Food article to be peeled is held between the first holder 460 and the second holder 465. The food article is peeled by displacing the peeling tool 450 along the length of the article by operating the third motor 185.

The food preparing and processing unit further includes a cutting unit. The cutting unit includes a mesh 470 and a pusher 475. The pusher 475 is selectively engageable with the cutting blade 182. In an embodiment, the pusher 475 is engaged with the cutting blade 182 via a pin 480. When the pin 480 is received in a slot 485, the pusher 475 is displaced along with the cutting blade 182. In an operative configuration, the pusher 475 displaces the food articles towards the mesh 470. The food article is cut in accordance with the shape and size of the mesh 470.

The system 100 can further be used for performing operations like a dosa making operation, a grating operation, a dicing operation, and the like by using various suitable tools.

The system 100, is compact in size, can prepare Indian breads as well as can perform various other cooking related tasks, and is easy to operate and use.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS

The present disclosure described herein above has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of a system that:

• is capable of preparing and processing food;

• is compact in size;

• can prepare Indian breads as well as can perform other various cooking related tasks; and

• is easy to operate and use.

The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein. The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

The use of the expression“at least” or“at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the disclosure to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results.

Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.

The numerical values mentioned for the various physical parameters, dimensions or quantities are only approximations and it is envisaged that the values higher/lower than the numerical values assigned to the parameters, dimensions or quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure, unless there is a statement in the specification specific to the contrary.

While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.