Multi-sensor array including an IR camera as part of an automated kitchen assistant system for recognizing and preparing food and related methods
US11618155B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 10, 2021 |
| Grant date | Apr 4, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 9, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06V20/68
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An automated kitchen assistant system inspects a food preparation area in the kitchen environment using a novel sensor combination. The combination of sensors includes an Infrared (IR) camera that generates IR image data and at least one secondary sensor that generates secondary image data. The IR image data and secondary image data are processed to obtain combined image data. A trained convolutional neural network is employed to automatically compute an output based on the combined image data. The output includes information about the identity and the location of the food item. The output may further be utilized to command a robotic arm, kitchen worker, or otherwise assist in food preparation. Related methods are also described.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.