The following invention relates to a stored energy oven including wire mesh heating elements. The oven can be used in conjunction with a storage system for foods in the context of a vending system.
In considering the combination of a stored energy oven incorporating batteries, several difficulties arise. The weight of the batteries requires that their placement does not impact the stability of the machine. However, the positioning of the batteries may not be ideal with respect to the positioning of the oven or storage containers. The separation of the oven from the stored energy source necessitates appropriate sizing and positioning of the high current elements. 3) Supporting a plurality of stored energy ovens in a transportable chassis can be difficult.
In view of the problems described above, automated food storage, heating and dispensation systems are needed to address the deficiencies of transferable ovens.
The present teachings provide embodiments of automated product storage, heating and dispensation system and methods, and features thereof, which offer various benefits. The system can employ multiple and integrated activation, enabling, and disabling of safety mechanisms, systems, operations, and the like to promote safe, efficient, and effective use of the devices and methods disclosed herein.
In some embodiments, a high power stored energy oven can be coupled to a food storage container and an electronic control system to allow for control of the oven based on the food placed within the oven. The food storage container can be outfitted with a refrigeration unit to allow for chilling or freezing of foods and a sensor system to detect the placement or removal of a food or packaged food.
The electronic control system communicating between the storage container and the oven can allow for monitoring of the items removed from the container and sensing of the items to be cooked at the oven. Sensing technologies, such as, infrared, bar codes, vision cameras, radio frequency tags, bar codes, and the like can be used with the container or oven to determine the item removed from either or placed within either. In some embodiments, the resistance of the multiple wire mesh elements can be reduced by placing them in a parallel electrical circuit. The oven cooking parameters can include running voltage, cycle times, cycle profile, rack spacing, fan speeds, and the like.
In some embodiments, an invoicing and billing component can be provided. The invoicing and billing component can allow for the incorporation of a user identification system by employing a coded id card fitted with a radio frequency chip, a magnetic strip, a bar code and the like, and further synchronizing the system to a web portal through the Internet. The billing system can allow a service provider of the vending system to charge a customer for the food, the use of oven, or both.
According to various embodiments, a mobile system for heating a product is disclosed. The mobile system including: an oven including heating elements and configured to reach 1400 Kelvin in less than about 30 seconds, wherein the heating elements are shaped to include a surface radiating heat; a stored energy device configured to provide direct current to energize the heating elements; a conveyer configured to convey the product to a heating position facing the surface radiating heat; and a chassis wherein the oven, the stored energy device and the conveyer are disposed.
According to various embodiments, a process of vending foods is disclosed. The process including: placing an item within a storage container; dispensing with automation the item within close proximity to or within a cooking oven including heating elements that reach 1400 Kelvin in less than about 30 seconds, wherein the heating elements are shaped to include a surface radiating heat; heating the product within the cooking oven; and conveying the cooked the one or more food items from the cooking oven.
It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed.
The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention.
a, 2b, 2c and 2d are schematic diagrams of a transportable vending system, according to exemplary embodiments.
a and 4b are schematic diagrams of a portion of a transportable heating system, according to exemplary embodiments.
a is a schematic diagram of an upper housing of a stored energy oven, according to exemplary embodiments.
b is a schematic diagram of a lower housing of a stored energy oven, according to exemplary embodiments.
c is a schematic diagram of a stored energy oven, according to exemplary embodiments.
Throughout the drawings and the detailed description, unless otherwise described, the same drawing reference numerals will be understood to refer to the same elements, features, and structures. The relative size and depiction of these elements may be exaggerated for clarity, illustration, and convenience.
Exemplary embodiments now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth therein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the systems, apparatuses, and/or methods described herein will likely suggest themselves to those of ordinary skill in the art. Elements, features, and structures are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings and the detailed description, and the size and proportions of some elements may be exaggerated in the drawings for clarity and convenience.
Additional features of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.
In some embodiments, the present teachings are directed to vending systems and methods, and features thereof, which offer various benefits. The systems and methods can employ multiple and integrated activation, enabling, and disabling safety mechanisms, systems, and steps that promote safe, efficient, quick, and effective use of the systems and methods.
In some embodiments, the current teachings provide a system incorporating a stored energy oven that overcomes the obstacles of traditional machines, such as, vending machines. Automated food storage, cooking and dispensation systems are needed to address the deficiencies of conventional vending systems for hot foods cooked to order.
1) The system allows for the greatest flexibility with regard to the various types of objects that can be heated in the oven. The system allows for foods that can be stored in a storage container and cooked in the oven.
2) The system allows for automated placement of an object, such as, a food item, within the stored energy oven to insure safe operation of the system. In some embodiments, the system can be unattended.
3) The system can automatically adjust the oven settings with respect to the object placed within it.
4) Various objects, such as, food items, may be stored and easily swapped from the unit without requiring modifications to any of the mechanical or electrical systems.
5) The system can allow for ease of invoicing and the ability to charge a customer for a service, for example, a food item and a cooking process of the same.
6) The system can be as small enough to be transferable in, for example, a food vending truck.
A mobile apparatus capable of heating/cooking various items in accelerated times is described. In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus can be a truck, van, bus, car, cart, bin, kiosk, or the like. In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus can include stored energy devices capable of providing power directly to heating elements. In some embodiments, the heating elements can include wire, forming a mesh. In some embodiments, a mesh including wire elements includes uninsulated wire. In some embodiments, the heating element can includes a metal or metal alloy sheet with perforations, forming a mesh, webbing or screen. In some embodiments, the heating elements can be arranged in a parallel circuit. In some embodiments, the wire includes nichrome. In some embodiments, the power provided directly to the heating element can be via direct current. In some embodiments, the heating elements are exposed to air.
The term “mobile” refers to the movability of the apparatus. An apparatus of the present teachings includes a mobility device, such as, wheels, coasters, or similar options which allow the apparatus to be easily moved. Wheels allow movement by the rotational movement of the wheels on axels within a truck, for example. In some embodiments, treats or pads, which reduce the co-efficient of frictions, may be used in a specialized kiosk or cart. As such, the apparatus is constructed such that constant movement is intended and as constant movement can increase the wear and tear on apparatus. The wear and tear can decrease the life or mean-time-between-failure the apparatus, when such apparatus is not intended to be easily moved, or often moved. Movability may include the change of physical location, from one town to a second town via a truck or the like, or from a storage facility or closet to a location of operation, such as, a kiosk in a mall.
In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus can include a vending machine capable of dispensing fully cooked edible products in less than about 5 minutes. In some embodiments, the apparatus can include a vending machine capable of dispensing fully cooked edible products in less than about 3 minutes, in less than 1 about minute.
In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus can cook and dispense fully cooked edible products in less than about 5 minutes, when the edible product is initially frozen and stored within the mobile apparatus. In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus can cook and dispense fully cooked edible products in less than about 3 minutes, when the edible product is initially frozen and stored within the mobile apparatus. In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus can cook and dispense fully cooked edible products in less than about 1 minute, when the edible product is initially frozen and stored within the mobile apparatus. In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus can cook and dispense fully cooked edible products in less than about 30 seconds, when the edible product is initially frozen and stored within the mobile apparatus.
In some embodiments, the edible product is a pizza, sandwich (Panini), bread bowl and soup, fried chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, etc. In some embodiments, the edible product is dispensed fully cooked in a single step. In some embodiments, the edible product is dispensed fully cooked in multiple (2, 3, 4, or more) steps.
The food cooked in the accelerated manner generally prior to cooking has a uniform thickness of less than about one inch, less than ¾ of an inch, less than about ½ of an inch, less than ¼ of an inch. The cooked food can be browned on an outer surface, while the interior of the food is heated to about 100 degree Fahrenheit or greater, about 120 degree Fahrenheit or greater, about 140 degree Fahrenheit or greater, about 150 degree Fahrenheit or greater, or the like.
In some embodiments, a cadaver can be incinerated in the oven. The cadaver can be of an animal or a human. When a cadaver or another object brought by a consumer to be heated or incinerated to the mobile apparatus, the input end of the oven can point to an exterior of the mobile apparatus. In some embodiments, the output end of the oven can point to an inside of the mobile apparatus, for example, to collect ashes. In some embodiments, the output end and the input end of the oven can point to an exterior of the mobile apparatus.
In some embodiments, the object is accepted at the input end by a conveyer. The control system positions the conveyer over the heating elements, and powers the heating elements for a set, determined, or programmed time. In some embodiments, the control system can power the air filtration system when the oven is powered. In some embodiments, the control system can power the air filtration system prior to powering up the oven in order to establish an air flow.
A distance of a surface of a wire mesh heating element from the nearest surface of the object to be heated/cooked/incinerated can be, for example, less than 6 inches, can be less than 4 inches, can be less than 2 inches, can be less than 1 inch, and the like. The distance can be adjusted while the oven is operating. Either the cadaver or the wire mesh heating element can be brought closer to the surface of the cadaver. For example, when wire mesh heating elements are deployed above and below an object to be heating, the bottom wire mesh heating elements can be held at a fixed distance from a conveyor or other mechanized system to convey the object to the heating surface, while the wire mesh heating elements disposed above the object can be lowered or raised as necessary to maintain an optimum distance from the object to be heated.
The mechanized system to convey the object to be heated can include a material able to withstand high temperatures. For example, the mechanized system can include a metal mesh, a chained belt, a fiber glass belt and the like.
In some embodiments, the heating elements of the mobile apparatus are capable of reaching about 1400-1500 Kelvin (K) in less than about 5 minutes. In embodiments, the heating elements of the mobile apparatus are capable of reaching about 1400-1500 K in less than about 3 minutes. In some embodiments, the heating elements of the mobile apparatus are capable of reaching about 1400-1500 K in less than about 2 minutes. In some embodiments, the heating elements of the mobile apparatus are capable of reaching about 1400-1500 K in less than about 1 minute. In some embodiments, the heating elements of the mobile apparatus are capable of reaching about 1400-1500 K in less than about 10 seconds. In some embodiments, the heating elements of the mobile apparatus are capable of reaching about 1400-1500 K in less than about 5 seconds. In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus includes a stored energy device, such as a battery, to directly power the heating element. In some embodiments, the stored energy device includes a charger.
In some embodiments, the vending machine to dispense the edible items is fully automated. In some embodiments, the vending machine to dispense the edible items is partially automated.
In some embodiments, the mobile apparatus further includes a beverage dispenser. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser dispenses cups, ice, beverages, and/or lids. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser dispenses hot or cold beverages. In some embodiments, the beverage dispenser dispenses carbonated beverages, water, juices, teas, coffee, smoothies, etc.
A vending system can include a high speed stored energy oven, a food storage container, and a stored energy and switching system. The oven can include top and bottom heater elements, as well as a movable tray.
When using batteries, the stored energy and switching system may be very heavy and thus is most preferably placed at the bottom of the entire vending system 1 to insure that the unit is not top heavy.
In use, food items which may be packaged are placed in storage container upon shelving or trays or bins. The container may be refrigerated, generally at temperatures ranging from −30 to +10 degrees Celsius. A sensor can detect the items or their presence on the trays and communicate to the central processing unit 40.
When desired, a user can scan their identification or payment card via a magnetic swipe. The processor may obtain the cooking information from its own memory system or through access to an off-site database connected through the internet.
Once obtained from storage container, the food may be optionally unwrapped and subsequently placed on for a conveyor for cooking via automation. Identification of the food item on the conveyor may be done via a sensor that can be a bar code scanner able to read a code placed on the packaging of food item. A vision system may also be used to detect the item placed on the conveyer through processor and detector.
With confirmation of the item to be heated has been determined, the oven parameters are changed automatically, including running voltage, cycle times, cycle profile, the spacing between the conveyer and heating elements, and fan speeds. The processor can then signal to a controller and control relays. The power to energize the heating elements can originate from batteries. The timing and pulsation width of the cycle can be controlled by the processor. When cooked or heated, the item is removed from the oven as detected by sensor and the information is transmitted via processor to the associated user account.
An exemplary process 100 to vend and cook a food product by automation can include operation 102 in which a user/service provider can insert items into a storage container. In operation 104, if the control system determines that the item is not recognized, the control system can request input from user. After operation 202 has been completed, the vending system process can indicate that it is ready for business. When a customer approaches the system, in operation 110, a customer order can be accepted. The order can be input scanning an ID card, receiving input from a user interface, a web interface, and the like. Payment can be accepted at this point. The payment can be for an item or a heating cycle. The system can implement a storage lock option where products or items stored in the storage container cannot be accessed until a payment has been successfully processed. The system, in operation 112, can retrieve an ordered item from a storage container using, for example, a gantry. The system can scan an item ID of the food item placed in queue for cooking. The system, in operation 114, can associate an item ID of the food item to the user. In operation 120, the product to be heated/cooked can be delivered to a conveyor at an input end of the oven. The system can receive a signal from an oven sensor when an item to be cooked is detected. The system can verify that the item is recognized/matched to an Output list. The system, in operation 220, can select oven parameters/profile for item selected to be heated/cooked. The system, in operation 222, can automatically change the oven parameters/profile to match a desired profile. Some profiles can request a preheated oven which can be done by operation 128. After the oven has preheated, the item can be conveyed to the heating position by the conveyor in operation 130. After the item has been heated in operation 132, the item can be conveyed to the output end of the oven in operation 138. An oven malfunction can be detected or determined in operation 134. The system can notify a user that a message to a service technician is advised.
The system, in operation 140, can optionally command a dispensing system to dispense a receptacle. Thereafter, the dispensing system or conveyer can dispense the item into the receptacle. The receptacle can be a suitable container or holder for the heated item, for example, a plate, a bowl, a bag, a bin and the like. The dispensing can be performed by a plate dispensed by a plate handling system. The system, in operation 144, can remove the item from queue list. The system, in operation 146 can charge a customer.
a, 2b, 2c and 2d are schematic diagrams of a transportable vending system 400. Chassis 402 can include a battery storage compartment 404, a vending system compartment 406, a storage compartment 408 and a partition wall 410 separating food compartment 408 from vending system compartment. As seen in
As seen in
Chassis 402 can include a mounting plate 414 (
a belt system 700 to convey food through a high speed oven;
a high speed oven 800;
a storage container system (500 as seen in
a plate dispensing system 900;
a carbonation system (not shown);
a water container (not shown);
a plate handling system 1000 (see
a food conveyance system or gantry (502 in
a motor control system (not shown);
a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) (not shown);
touch screens;
credit card processing (not shown);
Wi-Fi connectivity (not shown);
a fire suppression system (not shown);
a batteries (not shown);
an inverter (not shown);
high current switches (not shown);
charging terminals (not shown);
wheels;
a truck chassis;
an operator interface (not shown);
a chilling or refrigeration system and associated controls (not shown);
a protective door on one or both sides of the conveyor (not shown);
and bank of stored food items
In some embodiments, the vertical exit of the conveyor is at a similar height of the beverage dispensing system.
In some embodiments, the batteries for use with a high speed stored energy oven are under the truck frame.
In some embodiments, the plate handling system is located on one side of the conveyor.
In some embodiments, the customer ordering user interface is located below the oven exit.
In some embodiments, the plate handling oven exit also actuates the opening of a door.
In some embodiments, the energy of the heating is controlled.
In some embodiments, the selection of the appropriate batteries is controlled for each oven in use.
a and 4b are schematic diagrams of a portion of a transportable vending system 600.
a is a schematic diagram of an upper housing 801 of a high speed stored energy oven. Heating element 802 can include a wire mesh. Bus bars 804 and 806 can energize the heating element 802. A highly reflective coating 808 can be disposed on an inside face of upper housing 801. For example, the reflective coating 808 can include a gold coating.
b is a schematic diagram of a lower housing 851 of a high speed stored energy oven. Heating element 852 can include a wire mesh. Bus bars 854 and 856 can energize the heating element 852. A highly reflective coating 858 can be disposed on an inside face of upper housing 851. For example, the reflective coating 858 can include a gold coating.
c is a schematic diagram of a high speed stored energy oven 800. In some embodiments, one or more of the upper or lower housings can be movable.
The examples presented herein are intended to illustrate potential and specific implementations. It can be appreciated that the examples are intended primarily for purposes of illustration for those skilled in the art. The diagrams depicted herein are provided by way of example. There can be variations to these diagrams or the operations described herein without departing from the spirit of the invention. For instance, in certain cases, method steps or operations can be performed in differing order, or operations can be added, deleted or modified.
This application claims priority from and the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(a) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/642,864, filed May 4, 2012 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/708,602, filed Oct. 1, 2012, and the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. Further aspects of the mobile apparatus may be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,126,319, and 8,145,548, and U.S. application Ser. Nos. 13/284,426, 12/345,939, 13/405,975, 13/430,189, the contents of which are incorporated herein, in their entirety.
Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
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PCT/US13/39780 | 5/6/2013 | WO | 00 |
Number | Date | Country | |
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61642864 | May 2012 | US | |
61708602 | Oct 2012 | US |