Patent Overview
Title
Transportable robotic-automated kitchen workcell
Inventors
- David Zito
- Robert Anderson
- Ryan W. Sinnet 🙋♂️
Patent No.
US 12,133,615 B2
Issued
Abstract
A transportable kitchen workcell includes a prefabricated enclosure, a robotic arm secured within the enclosure, one or more food appliances, a food prep area and storage, a sensor assembly, and a processor operable to command the robotic arm to autonomously prepare a completed entree from a wide variety of raw ingredients. A dispensing unit is arranged in the enclosure for dispensing the raw ingredients onto a target surface according to a selected flowrate and based on real time feedback measured during dispensing. The workcell is self-contained and is adapted to be conveniently moved (e.g., towed) to a new location. A wide range of entrees may be completed without rearranging or retooling the equipment in the workcell. New food items may be prepared by the workcell by simply selecting the applicable program, or by downloading an update corresponding to the new food item.
The Problem We Solved
Traditional automated kitchen systems were limited to serving only a few types of food items. If you wanted to serve something new, you’d need to completely reconfigure or replace the equipment, and sometimes even change the kitchen layout. This was expensive, time-consuming, and prevented widespread adoption of food automation technology.
The Innovation
We invented a fully automated, transportable “Kitchen in a Box” (KIAB) that can prepare a wide variety of meals without needing physical reconfiguration. The system includes a robotic arm, appliances, smart storage, and a unique ingredient dispensing system – all packed in a compact, movable unit that can be towed to different locations. The KIAB uses sensors and cameras to monitor food preparation, ensuring quality at every step. Perhaps most importantly, the system can prepare entirely new menu items by simply selecting a different program – no hardware changes needed.
Scope of the Patent
The patent covers the complete system: the transportable enclosure, robotic arm configuration, food preparation areas, smart storage, and ingredient dispensing system. It also includes methods for cooking, self-cleaning, and relocating the kitchen unit based on demand. The patent particularly focuses on the smart dispensing system, which measures and adjusts ingredient flow in real-time for consistent food preparation.
Why It Matters
This innovation makes food automation practical for real-world use. By solving the flexibility problem, businesses can now automate food preparation for multiple menu items without huge investments in fixed equipment. The mobility aspect means units can be deployed where and when they’re needed most. For restaurants facing labor shortages and rising costs, this technology offers a reliable, consistent solution that can adapt to changing menus and consumer demands. It brings the benefits of automation to food service in a way that actually works with how the industry operates.