ABSTRACT
Abstract
A three-dimensional (3D) printer system is disclosed. The 3D-printer system comprises an extruder, a housing configured to house the extruder, a 3D-printer base including a print bed, the print bed configured to receive material extruded from the extruder, and a first sensor configured to detect a location of an object on the print bed. In some embodiments, the 3D-printer system further comprises a plurality of sensors coupled to the housing or to the extruder, the plurality of sensors including the first sensor, wherein the plurality of sensors are configured to obtain data for detection of the location of the object. In yet some embodiments, the 3D-printer system of claim further comprises a processor and a non-transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon logic, the logic when executed performs operations including receiving data from the first sensor and detecting the location of the object on the print bed based on the data.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/655,865, filed Jul. 20, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/587,306, filed May 4, 2017, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/364,862, filed Jul. 21, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Embodiments of the disclosure relate generally to generating objects using a 3D-printer system. Embodiments relate more particularly to systems and methods for printing an edible object using a 3D-printer system having one or more sensors coupled thereto that are configured to obtain data and, based on the data, detect an object on a print bed of the 3D-printer system.
BACKGROUND
A pizza is a flatbread generally topped with tomato sauce, toppings and cheese, baked in an oven. Today, pizza has become a favorite cuisine among numerous people. However, pizzas have been criticized as having an unhealthy balance of ingredients. Pizzas can be high in salt, fat and food energy.
Typically, pizzas come in a circular shape. Some pizza restaurants offer a limited number (two or three) of pizza sizes. As a result, it becomes almost impossible to configure a pizza to a specific calorie requirement or make a pizza crust of different ingredients.
In light of the above discussion, there appears to be a system and method for customizing and making pizzas on a pizza maker.
Among one of the most challenging and important factors related to the consumer health and safety is a 3D-printer system's ability to be cleaned without leaving traces of microorganisms. For example, connections or couplings within the food path of current systems, disconnects, luer fittings and NPT fittings are present, which provide opportunities for food residue to remain after printing. In several areas within the food path of current systems, viscous food may be reefed around the cracks and, as a result, cannot be cleaned easily with unidirectional hot water and detergent cleaning. Additionally, viscous food may end up being stuck around the outer surface of a print nozzle of current systems, which requires frequent manual cleaning. When a user forgets to clean outer surface of the print nozzle, opportunities are created for microorganism growth. Frequently, biofilm formation is observed around poorly cleaned disconnects, luer fittings, national pipe threading (NPT) fittings and print nozzles. Microorganisms on wet surfaces have the ability to aggregate, grow into microcolonies, and produce biofilm. Growth of biofilms in food processing environments leads to increased opportunity for microbial contamination of the processed product. These biofilms may contain spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Microorganisms within biofilms are protected from sanitizers increasing the likelihood of survival and subsequent contamination of food. This increases the risk of reduced shelf life and disease transmission
Currently systems may regularly dispose of all parts that come into physical contact with food including food pipes, couplers and nozzles to prevent microorganism contamination, which can become very expensive. Thus, what is needed is a proper and permanent automatic cleaning system within a 3D-printer system that ensures no biofilm formation, removes food residue within tubing and print nozzles in an affordable manner.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
An object of the embodiments herein is to provide a system (e.g., a 3D-printer system that may print, inter alia, pizza) to enable printing of, inter alia, edible objects, including but not limited or restricted to, a pizza crust, sauce, cheese in any shape, size and thickness.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to use a 3D-printing technology to automatically create various layers of, inter alia, edible objects, including but not limited or restricted to, pizza and with customized requirements.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method to allow a consumer to communicate with the system and provide customized requirements.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having a print bed that is dynamically adjustable according to dimensions of an object to be printed or an object onto which the exterior is to be printed.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having one or more sensors to detect dimensions of an object placed, or printed, on a print bed and print on the exterior of the object according to the detected dimensions.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having a robotic mechanism configured to grip an object on a print bed and adjust a positioning of the object.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system configured with an auto-clean procedure and optionally having a printing compartment and a cleaning compartment into which the one or more extruders are transported prior to the initiation of the auto-clean procedure.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system configured to print edible objects according to a plurality of inputs including a prescribed diet (e.g., from a physician or dietician), physiological measurements (e.g., from one or more wearables), dietary restrictions, etc.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having a robotic topping mechanism.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having an integrated curing mechanism, that, optionally, is located within a curing compartment of the 3D-printer system.
SUMMARY
An example of the computer-implemented method for customizing pizzas on a mobile device and preparing on a pizza maker includes receiving a plurality of inputs from a user by allowing the user to draw, configure and order one or more pizzas through a graphical interface on a mobile device. Further, the computer-implemented method includes sending the inputs wirelessly to a server. Furthermore, the computer-implemented method includes identifying an appropriate 3D food printer and subsequently sending the inputs from the server to the 3D food printer. Moreover, the computer-implemented method includes allowing the 3D food printer to decide a crust, sauce and cheese based on the inputs. The computer-implemented method includes instructing the 3D food printer to form the pizza by printing a plurality of ingredients layer-by-layer thereby providing granularity in shape, size and thickness for the ingredients.
These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
Additionally, adequate nutrition is a basic necessity for persons that are very physically active, e.g., soldiers, in order for the active person to achieve optimal performance and maintain high morale. Currently, soldiers located on various bases throughout the world, e.g., on a Forward Operating Base (FOB), consume pre-packaged Meals Ready to Eat (MRE), which may be inadequate in providing sufficient nutrition for the level of physical activity these soldiers routinely perform. These MREs are limited in choices of flavors or food-types, have limited nutritional value and are not tailored to each individual's nutrient needs. There is also a significant problem with supplying special nutrition to soldiers who become ill, dehydrated, or fatigued. Hence, a personalized diet for each soldier fighting in FOB is necessary. A system that can produce personalized diets based on soldiers' physiological needs and taste preferences will not only increase their morale but also increase effectiveness in day-to-day activities.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE VIEWS OF DRAWINGS
In the accompanying figures, similar reference numerals may refer to identical or functionally similar elements. These reference numerals are used in the detailed description to illustrate various embodiments and to explain various aspects and advantages of the present disclosure.
FIG. 1 block diagram of an environment, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a 3D food printer, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein;
FIG. 3A - FIG. 3C is a flow diagram customizing pizzas on a mobile device and preparing on a pizza maker, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein; and
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a machine in the example form of a computer system 400 within which instructions for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein may be executed.
FIG. 5A is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system.
FIG. 5B is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer of the 3D-printer system, the 3D-printer having a dynamic print bed.
FIG. 6 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of printing an object utilizing a 3D-printer system having a dynamic print bed.
FIG. 7 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of detecting dimensions of an object placed on a print bed and printing on an exterior of the object according to the detected dimensions.
FIGS. 8A-8B are exemplary illustrations of a 3D-printer system having one or more sensors to detect the dimensions of an object placed on a print bed of the 3D-printer system.
FIG. 8C is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system having a robotic mechanism for gripping and adjusting a positioning of an object placed on a print bed of the 3D-printer system.
FIG. 9 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of implementing an auto-clean procedure of a 3D-printer system.
FIG. 10 is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system having a cabinet configured to hold one or more food cartridges as well as a valve configured to accept at least a cleaning solution and water for cleaning a portion of the 3D-printer system using the auto-clean procedure as illustrated in FIG. 9 .
FIG. 11 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of printing an edible object with the 3D-printer system according to a plurality of inputs such that the edible object provides customized nutrients corresponding to at least physiological measurements.
FIG. 12 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating the method of printing an edible object with the 3D-printer system as shown in FIG. 11 .
FIG. 13A is an exemplary illustration of a print system having a robotic topping mechanism.
FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the printer system of FIG. 13A .
FIG. 13C is a top view of the printer system of FIG. 13A .
FIG. 14A is an exemplary illustration of a plurality of food cartridges coupled to a single nozzle via a piping including a flexible auger system.
FIG. 14B is an exemplary illustration of a plurality of food cartridges each coupled to a nozzle via a piping including a flexible auger system.
FIG. 15 is an exemplary flowchart of operations of a robotic topping mechanism performed during the process of printing an edible object.
FIG. 16 is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system having a curing compartment integrated therein.
FIG. 17 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of curing at least a portion of a printed edible material with a 3D-printer system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
3D-printing of edible objects and robotics technology holds promise for food management companies and restaurants in providing higher efficiency and personalization to consumers. Specifically, food cartridges with various nutrients can be loaded into a 3D-printer system, which may be programmed to create edible foods corresponding to a personalized diet for an individual based on physiological needs, a level of activity and genetic composition. Consumers can personalize their diet using an analysis platform and share their coded recipes on the internet. Such a platform has the potential to change the edible objects (e.g., food) is created, shares and consumed. Additionally, the analysis platform may recommend dietary needs to patients of certain disease, food allergies, and physical condition or to athletes trying to achieve performance based milestones.
In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe various features of the invention. For example, each of the terms âlogicâ and âcomponentâ may be representative of hardware, firmware or software that is configured to perform one or more functions. As hardware, the term logic (or component) may include circuitry having data processing and/or storage functionality. Examples of such circuitry may include, but are not limited or restricted to a hardware processor (e.g., microprocessor, one or more processor cores, a digital signal processor, a programmable gate array, a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit âASICâ, etc.), a semiconductor memory, or combinatorial elements.
Additionally, or in the alternative, the logic (or component) may include software such as one or more processes, one or more instances, Application Programm
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/655,865, filed Jul. 20, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/587,306, filed May 4, 2017, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/364,862, filed Jul. 21, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
Embodiments of the disclosure relate generally to generating objects using a 3D-printer system. Embodiments relate more particularly to systems and methods for printing an edible object using a 3D-printer system having one or more sensors coupled thereto that are configured to obtain data and, based on the data, detect an object on a print bed of the 3D-printer system.
BACKGROUND
A pizza is a flatbread generally topped with tomato sauce, toppings and cheese, baked in an oven. Today, pizza has become a favorite cuisine among numerous people. However, pizzas have been criticized as having an unhealthy balance of ingredients. Pizzas can be high in salt, fat and food energy.
Typically, pizzas come in a circular shape. Some pizza restaurants offer a limited number (two or three) of pizza sizes. As a result, it becomes almost impossible to configure a pizza to a specific calorie requirement or make a pizza crust of different ingredients.
In light of the above discussion, there appears to be a system and method for customizing and making pizzas on a pizza maker.
Among one of the most challenging and important factors related to the consumer health and safety is a 3D-printer system's ability to be cleaned without leaving traces of microorganisms. For example, connections or couplings within the food path of current systems, disconnects, luer fittings and NPT fittings are present, which provide opportunities for food residue to remain after printing. In several areas within the food path of current systems, viscous food may be reefed around the cracks and, as a result, cannot be cleaned easily with unidirectional hot water and detergent cleaning. Additionally, viscous food may end up being stuck around the outer surface of a print nozzle of current systems, which requires frequent manual cleaning. When a user forgets to clean outer surface of the print nozzle, opportunities are created for microorganism growth. Frequently, biofilm formation is observed around poorly cleaned disconnects, luer fittings, national pipe threading (NPT) fittings and print nozzles. Microorganisms on wet surfaces have the ability to aggregate, grow into microcolonies, and produce biofilm. Growth of biofilms in food processing environments leads to increased opportunity for microbial contamination of the processed product. These biofilms may contain spoilage and pathogenic microorganisms. Microorganisms within biofilms are protected from sanitizers increasing the likelihood of survival and subsequent contamination of food. This increases the risk of reduced shelf life and disease transmission
Currently systems may regularly dispose of all parts that come into physical contact with food including food pipes, couplers and nozzles to prevent microorganism contamination, which can become very expensive. Thus, what is needed is a proper and permanent automatic cleaning system within a 3D-printer system that ensures no biofilm formation, removes food residue within tubing and print nozzles in an affordable manner.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
An object of the embodiments herein is to provide a system (e.g., a 3D-printer system that may print, inter alia, pizza) to enable printing of, inter alia, edible objects, including but not limited or restricted to, a pizza crust, sauce, cheese in any shape, size and thickness.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to use a 3D-printing technology to automatically create various layers of, inter alia, edible objects, including but not limited or restricted to, pizza and with customized requirements.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method to allow a consumer to communicate with the system and provide customized requirements.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having a print bed that is dynamically adjustable according to dimensions of an object to be printed or an object onto which the exterior is to be printed.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having one or more sensors to detect dimensions of an object placed, or printed, on a print bed and print on the exterior of the object according to the detected dimensions.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having a robotic mechanism configured to grip an object on a print bed and adjust a positioning of the object.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system configured with an auto-clean procedure and optionally having a printing compartment and a cleaning compartment into which the one or more extruders are transported prior to the initiation of the auto-clean procedure.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system configured to print edible objects according to a plurality of inputs including a prescribed diet (e.g., from a physician or dietician), physiological measurements (e.g., from one or more wearables), dietary restrictions, etc.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having a robotic topping mechanism.
Another object of the embodiments herein is to provide a method, an apparatus and a system to use 3D printing technology with a 3D-printer system having an integrated curing mechanism, that, optionally, is located within a curing compartment of the 3D-printer system.
SUMMARY
An example of the computer-implemented method for customizing pizzas on a mobile device and preparing on a pizza maker includes receiving a plurality of inputs from a user by allowing the user to draw, configure and order one or more pizzas through a graphical interface on a mobile device. Further, the computer-implemented method includes sending the inputs wirelessly to a server. Furthermore, the computer-implemented method includes identifying an appropriate 3D food printer and subsequently sending the inputs from the server to the 3D food printer. Moreover, the computer-implemented method includes allowing the 3D food printer to decide a crust, sauce and cheese based on the inputs. The computer-implemented method includes instructing the 3D food printer to form the pizza by printing a plurality of ingredients layer-by-layer thereby providing granularity in shape, size and thickness for the ingredients.
These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred embodiments and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the embodiments herein without departing from the spirit thereof, and the embodiments herein include all such modifications.
Additionally, adequate nutrition is a basic necessity for persons that are very physically active, e.g., soldiers, in order for the active person to achieve optimal performance and maintain high morale. Currently, soldiers located on various bases throughout the world, e.g., on a Forward Operating Base (FOB), consume pre-packaged Meals Ready to Eat (MRE), which may be inadequate in providing sufficient nutrition for the level of physical activity these soldiers routinely perform. These MREs are limited in choices of flavors or food-types, have limited nutritional value and are not tailored to each individual's nutrient needs. There is also a significant problem with supplying special nutrition to soldiers who become ill, dehydrated, or fatigued. Hence, a personalized diet for each soldier fighting in FOB is necessary. A system that can produce personalized diets based on soldiers' physiological needs and taste preferences will not only increase their morale but also increase effectiveness in day-to-day activities.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE VIEWS OF DRAWINGS
In the accompanying figures, similar reference numerals may refer to identical or functionally similar elements. These reference numerals are used in the detailed description to illustrate various embodiments and to explain various aspects and advantages of the present disclosure.
FIG. 1 block diagram of an environment, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a 3D food printer, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein;
FIG. 3A - FIG. 3C is a flow diagram customizing pizzas on a mobile device and preparing on a pizza maker, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein; and
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a machine in the example form of a computer system 400 within which instructions for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein may be executed.
FIG. 5A is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system.
FIG. 5B is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer of the 3D-printer system, the 3D-printer having a dynamic print bed.
FIG. 6 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of printing an object utilizing a 3D-printer system having a dynamic print bed.
FIG. 7 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of detecting dimensions of an object placed on a print bed and printing on an exterior of the object according to the detected dimensions.
FIGS. 8A-8B are exemplary illustrations of a 3D-printer system having one or more sensors to detect the dimensions of an object placed on a print bed of the 3D-printer system.
FIG. 8C is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system having a robotic mechanism for gripping and adjusting a positioning of an object placed on a print bed of the 3D-printer system.
FIG. 9 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of implementing an auto-clean procedure of a 3D-printer system.
FIG. 10 is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system having a cabinet configured to hold one or more food cartridges as well as a valve configured to accept at least a cleaning solution and water for cleaning a portion of the 3D-printer system using the auto-clean procedure as illustrated in FIG. 9 .
FIG. 11 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of printing an edible object with the 3D-printer system according to a plurality of inputs such that the edible object provides customized nutrients corresponding to at least physiological measurements.
FIG. 12 is an exemplary block diagram illustrating the method of printing an edible object with the 3D-printer system as shown in FIG. 11 .
FIG. 13A is an exemplary illustration of a print system having a robotic topping mechanism.
FIG. 13B is a cross-sectional view of the printer system of FIG. 13A .
FIG. 13C is a top view of the printer system of FIG. 13A .
FIG. 14A is an exemplary illustration of a plurality of food cartridges coupled to a single nozzle via a piping including a flexible auger system.
FIG. 14B is an exemplary illustration of a plurality of food cartridges each coupled to a nozzle via a piping including a flexible auger system.
FIG. 15 is an exemplary flowchart of operations of a robotic topping mechanism performed during the process of printing an edible object.
FIG. 16 is an exemplary illustration of a 3D-printer system having a curing compartment integrated therein.
FIG. 17 is an exemplary flowchart of a method of curing at least a portion of a printed edible material with a 3D-printer system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
3D-printing of edible objects and robotics technology holds promise for food management companies and restaurants in providing higher efficiency and personalization to consumers. Specifically, food cartridges with various nutrients can be loaded into a 3D-printer system, which may be programmed to create edible foods corresponding to a personalized diet for an individual based on physiological needs, a level of activity and genetic composition. Consumers can personalize their diet using an analysis platform and share their coded recipes on the internet. Such a platform has the potential to change the edible objects (e.g., food) is created, shares and consumed. Additionally, the analysis platform may recommend dietary needs to patients of certain disease, food allergies, and physical condition or to athletes trying to achieve performance based milestones.
In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe various features of the invention. For example, each of the terms âlogicâ and âcomponentâ may be representative of hardware, firmware or software that is configured to perform one or more functions. As hardware, the term logic (or component) may include circuitry having data processing and/or storage functionality. Examples of such circuitry may include, but are not limited or restricted to a hardware processor (e.g., microprocessor, one or more processor cores, a digital signal processor, a programmable gate array, a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit âASICâ, etc.), a semiconductor memory, or combinatorial elements.
Additionally, or in the alternative, the logic (or component) may include software such as one or more processes, one or more instances, Application Programming Interface(s) (API), subroutine(s), function(s), applet(s), servlet(s), routine(s), source code, object code, shared library/dynamic link library (dll), or even one or more instructions. This software may be stored in any type of a suitable non-transitory storage medium, or transitory storage medium (e.g., electrical, optical, acoustical or other form of propagated signals such as carrier waves, infrared signals, or digital signals). Examples of a non-transitory storage medium may include, but are not limited or restricted to a programmable circuit; non-persistent storage such as volatile memory (e.g., any type of random access memory âRAMâ); or persistent storage such as non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory âROMâ, power-backed RAM, flash memory, phase-change memory, etc.), a solid-state drive, hard disk drive, an optical disc drive, or a portable memory device. As firmware, the logic (or component) may be stored in persistent storage.
Herein, a âcommunicationâ generally refers to related data that is received, transmitted, or exchanged within a communication session. The data may include a plurality of packets, where a âpacketâ broadly refers to a series of bits or bytes having a prescribed format. Alternatively, the data may include a collection of data that may take the form of an individual or a number of packets carrying related payloads, e.g., a single webpage received over a network.
The term âcomputerizedâ generally represents that any corresponding operations are conducted by hardware in combination with software and/or firmware.
Finally, the terms âorâ and âand/orâ as used herein are to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. Therefore, âA, B or Câ or âA, B and/or Câ mean âany of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C.â An exception to this definition will occur only when a combination of elements, functions, steps or acts are in some way inherently mutually exclusive.
The above-mentioned needs are met by a method, system and apparatus for printing customized object, e.g., edible objects, with the 3D-printer system disclosed herein. The following detailed description is intended to provide example implementations to one of ordinary skill in the art, and is not intended to limit the invention to the explicit disclosure, as one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that variations can be substituted that are within the scope of the invention as described.
FIG. 1 block diagram of an environment, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein. The environment 100 includes a computing device 102 , a server 104 and a plurality of 3D food printers, for example, 3D food printer
106 a and 3D food printer 106 n.
Examples of the computing device 102 includes, but is not limited to, personal digital assistants, cellular telephones, smart phones, tablets and other similar computing devices. In a specific context, the computing device 102 is a smart phone. Specifically, the computing device 102 is operated by a user (not shown in FIG. 1 ) who desires to customize a pizza. In some embodiments, the computing device 102 may be operated by a restaurant owner.
A computer program product (herein referred to as a âmobile applicationâ) is tangibly embodied in the computing device 102 . The computer program product also contain instructions that when executed perform the method described herein. Typically, the mobile application provides a very easy to use and intuitive graphical interface for the users (consumers) to design, configure and order their pizza. Further, the mobile application allows the user to pick a location to prepare the pizza and subsequently picks up the pizza from the appropriate 3D food printer.
The server 104 may also be referred to as a BeeHex server. The server 104 maintains a database (not shown in FIG. 1 ) of the status of each of the printer like (the printer queue, time it would take till the next order, ingredient levels and so on). Further, the server 104 consolidates all the orders from users and routes it to the appropriate 3D food printer location. The server 104 also stores GCODES that are sent to the 3D food printers.
The 3D food printers are configured with a 3D printer software that connects to the server 104 and regularly pulls the order received. The 3D food printers are built using a drip-proof extruder system. Additionally, the 3D printer software keeps a track of when the ingredients were loaded into the 3D food printer and the amount consumed and amount left. A local queue of orders is also maintained and sequentially sends each order to the 3D food printer.
Further, the 3D food printers are controlled using the configurations stored in the server 104 . The configurations includes critical information required to print a pizza, for instance, shape, ingredients, number of layers of each of the ingredients, thickness of each of the ingredients and so on. The configurations are converted into small code (also referred to as key).
At first, a user selects a specific thickness and width for a pizza. Pointers are then generated that selects and compiles GCODES. Subsequently, a pointer is created that acts as a key to find files on the server. Upon identification of various GCODES, an algorithm stacks up the GCODES and sends them (as a single file) to an appropriate 3D printer. A 3D printer store will put this file in a queue and will then go to the appropriate 3D printer.
The information collected from the users is sent to the server 104 . Subsequently, the server 104 identifies the appropriate 3D food printer and sends the information in a protocol that the 3D food printer recognizes. The 3D food printer is identified with its unique identifier (ID) with the server 104 . The server 104 uses this ID to identify an appropriate 3D food printer and subsequently sends pizza configurations and print commands to the identified 3D food printer. In other words, the inputs provided by the user (through the graphical interface) are converted to computer-aided-design (CAD) drawings and G-Code (RS-274) language required for the computer aided manufacturing system (3D food printer).
The 3D food printer then prepares the pizza based on the configurations thereby providing a customized experience to the user. The user may then go to the appropriate location of the 3D food printer and collect his/her customized pizza.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a 3D food printer, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein. The 3D food printer 106 a includes a microcontroller (CPU microcontroller) 202 that controls three stepper motors ( X-Stepper Motor 204 , Y- Stepper Motor 206 and Z-Stepper Motor 208 ) and relays ( Ingredient # 1 relay 210 a and Ingredient #2 relay 210 n ). Typically, there are two relays for each ingredient. For instance, for three ingredients (one dough, one sauce and one cheese), there will be at least six relays. The relays in turn control the extruder ( Ingredient # 1 Extruder 212 a and Ingredient #N Extruder 212 n ) for the various ingredients. In some embodiments, more than three stepper motors may be used.
The three stepper motors ( X-Stepper Motor 204 , Y- Stepper Motor 206 and Z-Stepper Motor 208 ) move over a base plate (not shown in FIG. 2 ). The X-Stepper Motor 204 controls the base plate. The Y- Stepper Motor 206 controls a top arm. The top arm/assembly (not shown in FIG. 2 ) holds the tubes (not shown in FIG. 2 ) with the food ingredients. Further, the Z- Stepper Motor 208 provides the Z-axis movement of the top arm.
Typically, the microcontroller 202 aligns the extruder nozzle (not shown in FIG. 2 ) and the base plate appropriately to recreate the exact shape. The microcontroller 202 enables and/or disables the relays appropriately so the exact desired amount of ingredients is deposited on the base plate. A synchronized motion of X, Y and Z axis creates the exact shape, size and nutritional characteristics of the pizza thus providing a customized experience to the consumer. The synchronized motion is governed by the GCODE.
The 3D food printer 106 a has cartridges for multiple crusts, for instance gluten-free, whole-wheat, regular dough, multiple sauces like marinara and pesto, multiple cheese and so on. Consequently, a pizza is created using the ingredients selected by the user in the mobile application.
The microcontroller receives the GCODE and subsequently decodes the GCODE into exact X, Y and Z location and activates each of the X, Y and Z stepper motor.
FIG. 3A - FIG. 3C is a flow diagram illustrating a method for customizing pizzas on a mobile device and preparing on a pizza maker, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein. The flow diagram begins at step 302 .
At step 302 , inputs are received from a user. The inputs include printer location, shape, crust ingredient, crust thickness, sauce ingredient, sauce volume, cheese ingredient and cheese volume.
At step 304 , the mobile application configured on the user's computing device sends the inputs to the server.
At step 306 , the server sends the inputs to the appropriate printer location. The 3D food printer sends back a wait time to the mobile application through the server.
At step 308 , based on the inputs, the 3D printer software decides a crust, sauce and cheese extruder to use.
At step 310 , the 3D printer software slices the thickness information and creates GCODE for each ingredient. The sliced 3D CAD Models are also called GCODES which are available on the server. The GCODES have specific file names, for instance âDoughUS1mmTHK300mmWIDE.GCODEâ.
Specifically, when a user selects a specific thickness and width of a pizza, a pointer is generated (for instance, US ###). This pointer is used as a key to find files on the server. After identification of various GCODES, an algorithm stacks up the GCODES together in a single file and sends it to a 3D Printer. The 3D Printer store will put this file in a queue and will then go to the printer when its available.
At step 312 , the 3D printer software sends the GCODE to the microcontroller on the printer PCB.
At step 314 , the microcontroller picks the appropriate crust extruder.
At step 316 , the microcontroller draws the appropriate crust till the appropriate shape and thickness is achieved.
At step 318 , the microcontroller picks the appropriate sauce.
At step 320 , the microcontroller draws the appropriate sauce till the appropriate shape and thickness is achieved.
At step 322 , the microcontroller picks the appropriate cheese.
At step 324 , the microcontroller draws the appropriate cheese till the appropriate shape and thickness is achieved.
The method described herein can be used at several outlets as listed below:
1. The method can be used in Pizza restaurants to provide a much faster turnaround. 2. The method can be used in unmanned locations like cafeterias, airport lounges etc. 3. The method can be used to provide custom shapes like team mascots at sports stadiums and events. 4. The method can be used to provide custom character shapes at theme parks.
The method described herein is beneficial for several reasons as listed below:
1. Increases cost savings. 2. Consistent and efficient. 3. Provides customizable size, shape and nutritional content.
The flow diagram ends at step 326 . The 3D printer software notifies the user.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a machine in the example form of a computer system 400 within which instructions for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein may be executed. In alternative embodiments, the machine operates as a standalone device or may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networked deployment, the machine may operate in the capacity of a server or a client machine in a server-client network environment, or as a peer machine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment. The machine may be a personal computer (PC), a tablet PC, a set-top box (STB), a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), cellular telephone, a web appliance, a network router, switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing instructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be taken by that machine. Further, while only a single machine is illustrated, the term âmachineâ shall also be taken to include any collection of machines that individually or jointly execute a set (or multiple sets) of instructions to perform any one or more of the methodologies discussed herein.
The example computer system 400 includes a processor 402 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or both), a main memory 404 , and a static memory 406 , which communicate with each other via a bus 406 . The computer system 406 may further include a video display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal displays (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The computer system 400 also includes an alphanumeric input device 412 (e.g., a keyboard), a user interface (UI) navigation device 414 (e.g., a mouse), a disk drive unit 416 , a signal generation device 418 (e.g., a speaker), and a network interface device 420 . The computer system 400 may also include an environmental input device 426 that may provide a number of inputs describing the environment in which the computer system 400 or another device exists, including, but not limited to, any of a Global Positioning Sensing (GPS) receiver, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, a still photo or video camera, an audio sensor (e.g., a microphone), a velocity sensor, a gyroscope, an accelerometer, and a compass.
Machine-Readable Medium
The disk drive unit 416 includes a machine-readable medium 422 on which is stored one or more sets of data structures and instructions 424 (e.g., software) embodying or utilized by any one or more of the methodologies or functions described herein. The instructions 424 may also reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 404 and/or within the processor 402 during execution thereof by the computer system 400 , the main memory 404 and the processor 402 also constituting machine-readable media.
While the machine-readable medium 422 is shown in an example embodiment to be a single medium, the term âmachine-readable mediumâ may include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., a centralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches and servers) that store the one or more instructions 424 or data structures. The term ânon-transitory machine-readable mediumâ shall also be taken to include any tangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of the present subject matter, or that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying data structures utilized by or associated with such instructions. The term ânon-transitory machine-readable mediumâ shall accordingly be taken to include, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, and optical and magnetic media. Specific examples of non-transitory machine-readable media include, but are not limited to, non-volatile memory, including by way of example, semiconductor memory devices (e.g., Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), and flash memory devices), magnetic disks such as internal hard disks and removable disks, magneto-optical disks, and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks.
Transmission Medium
The instructions 424 may further be transmitted or received over a computer network 450 using a transmission medium. The instructions 424 may be transmitted using the network interface device 420 and any one of a number of well-known transfer protocols (e.g., HTTP). Examples of communication networks include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), the Internet, mobile telephone networks, Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS) networks, and wireless data networks (e.g., Wi-Fi and WiMAX networks). The term âtransmission mediumâ shall be taken to include any intangible medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying instructions for execution by the machine, and includes digital or analog communications signals or other intangible media to facilitate communication of such software.
As described herein, computer software products can be written in any of various suitable programming languages, such as C, C++, C#, Pascal, Fortran, Perl, Matlab (from MathWorks), SAS, SPSS, JavaScript, AJAX, and Java. The computer software product can be an independent application with data input and data display modules. Alternatively, the computer software products can be classes that can be instantiated as distributed objects. The computer software products can also be component software, for example Java Beans (from Sun Microsystems) or Enterprise Java Beans (EJB from Sun Microsystems). Much functionality described herein can be implemented in computer software, computer hardware, or a combination.
Furthermore, a computer that is running the previously mentioned computer software can be connected to a network and can interface to other computers using the network. The network can be an intranet, internet, or the Internet, among others. The network can be a wired network (for example, using copper), telephone network, packet network, an optical network (for example, using optical fiber), or a wireless network, or a combination of such networks. For example, data and other information can be passed between the computer and components (or steps) of a system using a wireless network based on a protocol, for example Wi-Fi (IEEE standards 802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11e, 802.11g, 802.11i, and 1802.11n). In one example, signals from the computer can be transferred, at least in part, wirelessly to components or other computers.
It is to be understood that although various components are illustrated herein as separate entities, each illustrated component represents a collection of functionalities which can be implemented as software, hardware, firmware or any combination of these. Where a component is implemented as software, it can be implemented as a standalone program, but can also be implemented in other ways, for example as part of a larger program, as a plurality of separate programs, as a kernel loadable module, as one or more device drivers or as one or more statically or dynamically linked libraries.
As will be understood by those familiar with the art, the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Likewise, the particular naming and division of the portions, modules, agents, managers, components, functions, procedures, actions, layers, features, attributes, methodologies and other aspects are not mandatory or significant, and the mechanisms that implement the invention or its features may have different names, divisions and/or formats.
Furthermore, as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art, the portions, modules, agents, managers, components, functions, procedures, actions, layers, features, attributes, methodologies and other aspects of the invention can be implemented as software, hardware, firmware or any combination of the three. Of course, wherever a component of the present invention is implemented as software, the component can be implemented as a script, as a standalone program, as part of a larger program, as a plurality of separate scripts and/or programs, as a statically or dynamically linked library, as a kernel loadable module, as a device driver, and/or in every and any other way known now or in the future to those of skill in the art of computer programming. Additionally, the present invention is in no way limited to implementation in any specific programming language, or for any specific operating system or environment.
Furthermore, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the relevant art that where the present invention is implemented in whole or in part in software, the software components thereof can be stored on computer readable media as computer program products. Any form of computer readable medium can be used in this context, such as magnetic or optical storage media. Additionally, software portions of the present invention can be instantiated (for example as object code or executable images) within the memory of any programmable computing device.
As will be understood by those familiar with the art, the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. Likewise, the particular naming and division of the portions, modules, agents, managers, components, functions, procedures, actions, layers, features, attributes, methodologies and other aspects are not mandatory or significant, and the mechanisms that implement the invention or its features may have different names, divisions and/or formats.
System and Methodology of a Dynamic Print Bed
With respect to current 3D-printer technology, 3D-printer print beds are flat surfaces and require external material supports in order to print complex objects (e.g., objects having unstable weight distribution and/or one or more overhangs). A 3D-printer system having a dynamic print bed may reduce the need for the use of external material supports in order to print complex objects. Specifically, a dynamic print bed, comprised of a plurality of adjustable pins, supports the distribution of weight of the object as the object is being printed and/or cured. Additionally, a dynamic print bed may be used in conjunction with external material supports during the printing process.
Referring to FIG. 5A , an exemplary illustration of a print system 500 is shown. The print system 500 includes a 3D- printer system 502 having a housing 504 , a CNC robot 506 (also referred to herein as a âtopping robotâ) having a plurality of food silos (âfood silosâ) 508 for storing edible toppings, an electronic device 510 communicatively coupled to the 3D- printer system 502 and the CNC robot 506 and providing a display screen that may be used to receive input via a user interface. The print system 500 also includes a cart 512 that may include a plurality of wheels to facilitate movement of the print system 500 . The cart 512 is also configured to support the 3D- printer system 502 , the CNC robot 506 and the electronic device 510 . Further, the interior of the cart 512 may be temperature-controlled and stored one or more food cartridges 514 (âfood cartridgesâ). The interior of the cart 512 may also house an air compressor 516 (e.g., approved by the FDA) as well as a water and food residue receptacle 518 (âreceptacleâ) that receives water and food residue resulting from an auto-cleaning process of the print system 500 , which is discussed below in detail. Although not illustrated in FIG. 5A , the cart 512 may also house a coupling to a clean water source and as containers for storing cleaning solution. Additionally, the cart 512 may be configured to support a cleaning compartment (e.g., contains a housing that at least partially encloses an interior in which an auto-clean process is performed by the print system 500 ). The cleaning compartment is shown in, for example, FIG. 10 . Further, a conveyor belt 520 may be configured to transport an object between the 3D- printer system 502 and the CNC robot 506 .
<div id="p-0
CLAIMS
Claims ( 20 )
What is claimed is:
1. A three-dimensional (3D) printer system, the system comprising:
an extruder;
a housing configured to house the extruder;
a 3D-printer base including a print bed, the print bed configured to receive material extruded from the extruder; and
a sensor configured to detect measurements of an object on the print bed;
a processor; and
non-transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon logic, the logic being executable by the processor to perform operations including:
receiving data from the sensor pertaining to the detected measurements,
determining dimensions of the object based on the data, and
generating printing instructions in accordance with the dimensions of the object.
2. The 3D-printer system of claim 1 , further comprising:
a plurality of sensors coupled to the housing or the extruder, the plurality of sensors including the sensor, wherein the plurality of sensors are configured to obtain data for detection of a location of the object.
3. The 3D-printer system of claim 1 , wherein the logic being executable by the processor to perform further operations including:
detecting a location of the object on the print bed based on the data.
4. The 3D-printer system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is one of a plurality of sensors coupled to the housing or the extruder, and wherein the data is captured by the plurality of sensors and includes two or three dimensional images, and wherein the logic being executable by the processor to perform further operations including:
detecting a physical attribute of the object on the print bed based on the data.
5. The 3D-printer system of claim 1 , further comprising:
a scale integrated into the print bed, the scale configured to determine a weight of the object.
6. The 3D-printer system of claim 1 , wherein the object is comprised of extruded material.
7. The 3D-printer system of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is coupled to the extruder or the housing.
8. The 3D-printer system of claim 1 , wherein the data received from the sensor is one or more captured images of the object, and
wherein determining the dimensions of the object includes comparing the one or more captured images to known images.
9. An apparatus for printing, the apparatus comprising:
an extruder;
a housing configured to house the extruder;
a 3D-printer base including a print bed, the print bed configured to receive material extruded from the extruder; and
a sensor configured to detect measurements of an object on the print bed;
a processor; and
non-transitory, computer-readable medium having stored thereon logic, the logic being executable by the processor to perform operations including:
receiving data from the sensor pertaining to the detected measurements,
determining dimensions of the object based on the data, and
generating printing instructions in accordance with the dimensions of the object.
10. The apparatus of claim 9 , further comprising:
a plurality of sensors coupled to the housing or the extruder, the plurality of sensors including the sensor, wherein the plurality of sensors are configured to obtain data for detection of a location of the object.
11. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the logic being executable by the processor to perform further operations including:
detecting a location of the object on the print bed based on the data.
12. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the sensor is one of a plurality of sensors coupled to the housing or the extruder, and wherein the data is captured by the plurality of sensors and includes two or three dimensional images, and wherein the logic being executable by the processor to perform further operations including:
detecting a physical attribute of the object on the print bed based on the data.
13. The apparatus of claim 9 , further comprising:
a scale integrated into the print bed, the scale configured to determine a weight of the object.
14. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the object is comprised of extruded material.
15. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the sensor is coupled to the extruder or the housing.
16. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein the data received from the sensor is one or more captured images of the object, and
wherein determining the dimensions of the object includes comparing the one or more captured images to known images.
17. A computerized method for printing utilizing a 3D-printer system, the 3D-printer system including an extruder, a housing, a 3D-printer base including a printer bed, and a sensor, the method comprising:
receiving data from the sensor pertaining to detected measurements of an object placed on the print bed, the sensor being coupled to the housing or the extruder of the 3D-printer system, wherein the housing is configured to house the extruder; and
determining dimensions of the object based on the data, and
generating printing instructions in accordance with the dimensions of the object.
18. The computerized method of claim 17 , further comprising:
detecting a physical attribute of the object on the print bed based on the data,
wherein the sensor is one of a plurality of sensors, and wherein the data is captured by the plurality of sensors and includes two or three dimensional images.
19. The computerized method of claim 17 , further comprising:
receiving measurements from a scale, the scale integrated into the print bed and configured to determine a weight of the object.
20. The computerized method of claim 17 , wherein the data received from the sensor is one or more captured images of the object, and wherein determining the dimensions of the object includes comparing the one or more captured images to known images.
US16/247,363
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System, apparatus and method for customizing and generating a 3D printed food item
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3D-print system with integrated CNC robot and automatic self-cleaning mechanism
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