Advanced Food Production Mixing System Innovation
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent described a mixing apparatus that mixed an additive with food while the food was falling. However, this invention had limitations in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and safety. The present invention addresses these limitations by integrating the patented mixing apparatus with advanced technologies to create a more comprehensive and intelligent food production system.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The novelty of the present invention lies in the synergistic combination of the patented mixing apparatus with distinct technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, and robotics to create a more efficient, accurate, and safe food production process. The inventive step is the integration of these technologies to create a comprehensive and intelligent food production system that addresses the limitations of the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include different types of sensors, such as computer vision or acoustic sensors, to detect food properties. The AI-driven additive dispensing system could be replaced with a machine learning-based system or a rule-based system. The blockchain-based inventory management system could be replaced with a traditional inventory management system. The robotic food processing unit could be replaced with a manual or semi-automated processing unit.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The present invention has significant commercial potential in the food manufacturing industry, particularly in the production of fried noodles, snacks, and other processed foods. The system's ability to optimize food production workflows, reduce waste, and ensure food safety makes it an attractive solution for food manufacturers. The market for intelligent food production systems is growing rapidly, and the present invention is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A23 | A23P20/18 |
| A | A23 | A23G3/0095 |
| A | A23 | A23G3/26 |
| A | A23 | A23L7/109 |
| A | A23 | A23P20/13 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/401 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/402 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/404 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/465 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/54 |
| A | A61 | A61J3/005 |
| B | B01 | B01F25/721 |
| B | B01 | B01F33/813 |
| B | B01 | B01F35/7548 |
| B | B01 | B01J2/12 |
| B | B05 | B05B13/025 |
| B | B05 | B05B13/0257 |
| A | A23 | A23V2002/00 |
| B | B05 | B05C3/00 |
| B | B05 | B05C3/08 |
| B | B05 | B05D3/12 |
| B | B67 | B67D1/0016 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Food Processing and Additive Mixing Technologies, encompassing apparatus for mixing additives with food products during manufacturing, with expertise in mechanical design, food engineering, and automated processing systems
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A food processing engineer with advanced technical degree, experience in industrial food manufacturing equipment design, familiarity with sensor technologies, automation systems, and food safety protocols
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that integrating digital technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain with existing food mixing apparatus represents a predictable technological evolution. The core mixing functionality from the source patent provides a foundational platform for incorporating intelligent monitoring and optimization technologies. These technological extensions represent standard engineering approaches to enhancing industrial food processing equipment through digital transformation.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,856,977 |
|---|---|
| Title | Mixing apparatus for mixing an additive with food while the food is falling |
| Assignee(s) | AJINOMOTO CO., INC., MAYEKAWA MFG. CO., LTD. |