Autonomous Food Processing System: Precision Mixing Tech
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original mixing apparatus for mixing an additive with food while the food is falling has limitations in terms of flexibility, customization, and scalability. The new invention addresses these limitations by introducing a modular, autonomous, and highly adaptable system that can process various food types and additives with unprecedented precision and speed.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new invention's use of advanced robotics, computer vision, and machine learning algorithms to enable real-time customization and quality control constitutes a significant departure from the original patent's limitations. The introduction of a cloud-based platform for remote monitoring and control, as well as the modular design, further distinguish the new invention from the prior art.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include the use of different types of robotic arms, vision systems, or machine learning algorithms. Variations could also include the integration of additional sensors, such as temperature or humidity sensors, to further enhance the system's precision and adaptability.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The Autonomous Food Processing System has significant commercial potential in the food processing industry, particularly in the production of customized, high-quality food products. The system's ability to adapt to changing market demands and its potential for predictive maintenance make it an attractive solution for food manufacturers seeking to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
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, with expertise in automated food handling systems, robotic food processing, and industrial mixing apparatus design
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced engineering or food science degree, experienced in industrial automation, robotic systems, and food manufacturing processes, familiar with computer vision and machine learning applications in food processing
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's fundamental mixing apparatus concept naturally extends to more advanced technological implementations using robotics, computer vision, and machine learning. The core principles of mixing additives with food during transit are preserved, with technological enhancements representing predictable evolutionary improvements in food processing automation. The modular and adaptive approaches disclosed represent logical extensions of existing industrial food processing methodologies.
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. |