Automatic Pet Food Dispenser

Systems and methods for automated pet food dispensing are described. One apparatus includes a receptacle configured to hold a sealed container containing wet pet food. The apparatus may include an electrically-operated plunger configured to interface with the receptacle. A processing system may be connected to the electrically-operated plunger. In one aspect, the processing system is configured to initiate a pet feeding event by actuating the plunger to interface with the receptacle, puncture the sealed container, and dispense the wet pet food into the food bowl. The processing system may maintain a time history to determine one or more future pet feeding events.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for implementing an automatic pet food dispenser that dispenses wet pet food from cartridges or containers.

Background Art

Wet pet food is objectively better for pet (e.g., dog or cat) health, but feeding a pet wet pet food can be labor-intensive. Most contemporary automatic feeders require at least some (oftentimes, a high) degree of manual involvement. Some contemporary systems require either feeding dry pet food or manually scooping wet pet food into a timed chamber with a small carry capacity. As soon as wet pet food is removed from its sealed aluminum can or container, the shelf life of the wet pet food is reduced, and bacterial growth increases at a rapid rate. This means there are only a limited number of meals these machines can carry. Dry pet food solutions are typically not suited to a pet's digestive nature. Long-term problems associated with dry pet food can include poor pet health and disease (e.g., diabetes, kidney failure, etc.).

SUMMARY

Aspects of the invention are directed to systems and methods for implementing an automated pet food dispenser that dispenses wet pet food substance (e.g., wet cat or dog food) from individual pouches, or containers. In one aspect, the automated pet food dispenser holds up to a week of pet food with substantially no reduction in the shelf life of the food. A load cell or other weighing mechanism may be used to measure a weight of a dispensed quantity of wet pet food, and a processing system may be used to regulate a quantity of food dispensed based on the weight measurement. One aspect includes a refrigeration unit that maintains the wet pet food at a temperature that is lower than an ambient temperature.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The flow diagrams and block diagrams in the attached figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flow diagrams or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which includes one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It is also noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flow diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flow diagrams, may be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means which implement the function/act specified in the flow diagram and/or block diagram block or blocks.

Aspects of the invention described herein address challenges associated with manual feeding of wet pet food. One aspect includes placing one or more cartridges of wet pet food into an automatic pet food dispenser that is controlled by a processing system. The processing system may control the automatic pet food dispenser to automatically dispense wet pet food at a specific time or time intervals via a timer, or upon user command. User commands may be received via a built-in user interface, or via a connected device (e.g., a mobile phone or a tablet). An advantage of such an automatic pet food dispenser that dispenses wet pet food via one or more wet pet food storage cartridges includes increased shelf life of the wet pet food, reduced bacterial growth, and increased meal capacity for the pet (e.g., a cat or a dog).

FIG.1Ais a block diagram depicting an operation of an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser100. As depicted, automated pet food dispenser100includes processing system102, actuator104, plunger106, support108, receptacle110, pet food container112, food bowl114, computing system116, and load cell118.

In one aspect, support108is substantially rigidly mechanically connected to actuator104and receptacle110. Receptacle110may be configured to receive and store pet food container112. Pet food container112may be filled with wet pet food. In an aspect, a pet food container such as pet food container112may also be referred to as a “cartridge.” Pet food container112may also be substantially sealed to appropriately preserve the contained wet pet food for a specified amount of time. In one aspect, the wet pet food can be preserved for a period of 4 months to 3 years, depending on factors such as sealing of pet food container112, and environmental factors such as ambient temperature and humidity.

In one aspect, processing system102is configured to control actuator104and extend or retract plunger106. Plunger106may be extended by actuator106to apply a pressure or force on pet food container112. As a result of this force, pet food container112may rupture or puncture and dispense a part of or the entire contents of pet food container112into food bowl114. A pet may be able to consume the dispensed wet pet food from food bowl114. Food bowl114may be a pet food bowl. As depicted inFIG.1A, plunger106is in a fully-retracted position.

In one aspect, actuator104is a linear actuator (e.g., a lead screw linear actuator). In other aspects, actuator104may be a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or a rigid chain-based actuator.

In one aspect, load cell118measures an amount of dispensed wet pet food in food bowl114. Processing system102may be configured to receive a measurement of the amount of dispensed wet pet food from load cell118. If the measured dispensed amount of wet pet food is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount, then processing system102may command actuator104to retract plunger106. In this way, a known quantity of wet pet food is dispensed from pet food container112. This enables a user to control an amount of wet pet food dispensed for a particular meal. In one aspect, meals are customizable and can be configured by a pet owner (i.e., a user). A typical meal might weigh 2-3 oz of wet pet food for an average cat. A feeding frequency of 2-4 meals per day may be programmed into processing system102, depending on a size or weight of the pet. For dogs, a daily amount of 3 oz of wet pet food may be dispensed by automated pet food dispenser100for each 3-3.5 pounds of body weight of a dog.

Processing system102may be configured to determine how much food remains in pet food container112based on how much plunger106is extended. When plunger106is extended to a certain length (e.g., 6 inches), processing system102may determine that a bottom of plunger106may be close to a bottom end of receptacle110. This, in turn, indicates that pet food container112is substantially empty. Processing system102may then completely command actuator104to completely withdraw plunger106from receptacle110. Processing system102may also issue one or more user alerts for a user via a user interface, informing the user that pet food container112is substantially empty.

In one aspect, processing system102is configured to dispense a predetermined quantity of wet pet food at a given time of day, or dispense predetermined quantities of wet pet food at regular time intervals or at different preset times of day (e.g., 100 grams of wet pet food every eight hours). To achieve these functional aspects, processing system102may be appropriately programmed by a user via a user interface. User-programmable functions associated with processing system102may include a quantity of wet pet food to be dispensed at a particular meal, one or more feeding times, a feeding time interval, and so on. To implement these functions, processing system102may be a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a general processing system, a personal computing system, a mobile phone, a tablet, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, or any other similar processing system. As presented herein, processing system102generally includes a processor, a memory, and one or more communication interfaces.

In one aspect, one or more user-programmable functions may be input by a user on computing system116, and then transmitted to processing system102via wireless communication link120. Computing system may be any computing device such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a mobile phone, a tablet, or any other computing device. Wireless communication link120may be implemented as a Bluetooth communication link, a Wi-Fi communication link, a ZigBee communication link, an ultrasonic communication link, or as any other wireless communication protocol. In one aspect, computing system116may run an application software that allows a user to configure, control, and monitor aspects of automated pet food dispenser100.

FIG.1Bis a block diagram depicting an operation of automated pet food dispenser100.FIG.1Bdepicts automated food dispenser as including processing system102, actuator104, plunger106, support108, receptacle110, pet food container112, food bowl114, computing system116, and load cell118.

As depicted inFIG.1B, plunger106is shown to be extended by actuator104, to be in an extended position. As plunger106is extended by actuator104upon command from processing system102, plunger106exerts a force on pet food container112. Pet food container112is also physically constrained at a bottom end by receptacle110. This constraint may be due to a design of receptacle110, or due to an insert placed into receptacle110. Due to the forces exerted by plunger106and receptacle110, pet food container112may rupture. In one aspect, pet food container112may be designed to rupture at a bottom end so that the wet pet food contained within pet food container112is dispensed (or extruded) out into food bowl114as dispensed pet food122. In one aspect, load cell118measures a quantity (e.g., a weight) of dispensed pet food122. If the weight of dispensed pet food122is greater than or equal to a predetermined quantity as programmed into processing system102, processing system102may command actuator104to stop extending plunger106further, and possibly retract plunger106back to a fully-retracted state as shown inFIG.1A. A pet may now feed from food bowl114. Since a predetermined quantity of food has been dispensed, underfeeding or overfeeding of the pet may be avoided.

Automated pet feeder100may be used on a daily basis for automatically dispensing a known quantity of wet pet food to a pet. For example, when a pet owner goes to work, the pet owner (user) may program processing system to dispense predetermined amounts of pet food at predetermined times while the pet owner is away. In one aspect, food bowl114is removeable for cleaning and sanitizing, and may be replaced with a similar food bowl. In one aspect, food bowl114is attached to load cell118via a magnetic coupling. In one aspect, load cell118may be replaced by a similar weight-measuring device.

FIG.2is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser200. As depicted, automated pet food dispenser200includes user interface202, processing system204, linear actuator206, supporting structure208, plunger210, receptacle212, receptacle support214, support216, food bowl218, and load cell220.

In one aspect, user interface202allows a user (e.g., a pet owner) to interact with automated food dispenser200. User interface202may include any combination of input/output devices such as push buttons, video display screens, LCD screens, touch screens, switches, incandescent bulbs, LED bulbs, haptic feedback devices, and so on. In one aspect, a user programs data such as a feeding schedule (e.g., a feeding time or a feeding time interval), and a quantity of wet pet food to be dispensed, via user interface202. In one aspect, user input/output components associated with user interface202may be integrated onto a printed circuit board (PCB).

In one aspect, processing system204is similar to processing system102, and may perform functions similar to processing system102. Processing system204may receive one or more user commands and data entered via user interface202or via a computing system such as computing system116, and may use these commands and data to appropriately schedule a pet feeding routine, while dispensing a predetermined amount of pet food.

Supporting structure208may provide a substantially rigid support structure for automated pet food dispenser200. Specifically, supporting structure208may provide a substantially rigid support for linear actuator206, receptacle212, processing system204, user interface202, and other components of automated pet food dispenser200. Supporting structure208may be similar to support108.

Linear actuator206may be similar to actuator104, and may receive one or more instructions or commands from processing system204to extend or retract plunger210. Linear actuator206may be any of a lead screw linear actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or a rigid chain-based actuator. Receptacle support214may provide a substantially rigid support to a lower end of receptacle212.

In one aspect, support216supports user interface202, processing system204, linear actuator206, supporting structure208, plunger210, and receptacle212. Food bowl218may be similar to food bowl114. Food bowl218may rest on load cell220that may be similar to load cell118.

In one aspect, a pet food container similar to pet food container112may be inserted or placed into receptacle212. At a designated pet feeding time, processing system204may command linear actuator208to extend plunger210into receptacle212. Plunger210may exert a force on the pet food container within receptacle212. In one aspect, motion of the pet food container within receptacle212is constrained by an insert. The insert may prevent motion of the pet food container while linear actuator206applies a force to the pet food container via plunger210. The force exerted by plunger210may cause the pet food container to rupture, and the contents of the pet food container may be dispensed into food bowl218through an opening at the bottom of receptacle212.

In one aspect, a quantity of pet food dispensed may be measured by load cell220. Measurements from load cell220may be received by processing system204. Processing system204may command linear actuator206to stop extending plunger210when a quantity of food in food bowl218as measured by load cell220is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. Processing system204retract plunger210so that plunger210is completely outside of receptacle212.

In one aspect, electrical portions of automated pet food dispenser200(e.g., processing system204and user interface202. may be collectively referred to as “electronics.” The electronics serve several roles in automated pet food dispenser200. The electronics may provide connectivity, either to a local device (e.g., computing device116that may be a smartphone), or to the cloud. This connectivity may be accomplished via wireless communication link120(e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth). In one aspect, wireless communication link120allows a user to remotely set feed times, check feed status, view how much food has been consumed, or other perform useful functions associated with automated pet food dispenser200. The electronics also monitor the scale (e.g., load cell118or220) under the food bowl (e.g., food bowl114or218), provide power and control to the actuator (e.g., actuator104or linear actuator206), check for user inputs, and other routine functions. The electronics tell the actuator (e.g., actuator104or linear actuator206) to dispense food at the set times or when otherwise commanded to by the user, and monitor how much food is dispensed.

FIG.3is a schematic diagram depicting a view300of an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser. As depicted, view300includes cover302, cover door304, receptacle306, and food bowl308. In one aspect, an automated pet food dispenser (e.g., automated pet food dispenser200) may be housed in cover302. Cover door304may be opened to gain access to receptacle306. Via cover door304, a user may be able to refill receptacle306with a new pet food container, or remove an empty pet food container from a previous feeding. Cover302may include an opening or orifice at a bottom end (not shown), through which wet pet food may be dispensed from receptacle306into food bowl308. Cover302may also include one or more inserts to provide a substantially rigid support for receptacle306. Cover302may also house other components of an automated pet food dispenser such as actuator104, plunger106, and processing system102.

FIG.4is a schematic diagram depicting an interface400between a plunger406and a receptacle408. As depicted, actuator402(similar to actuator104) may be substantially rigidly supported by support404, that is substantially rigidly connected to supporting structure412. Receptacle408(similar to receptacle110) may be substantially rigidly supported by support410, that is substantially rigidly connected to supporting structure412. Supporting structure402may be similar to support108or supporting structure208.

In one aspect, piston406is similar to piston106. Piston406may be configured to be substantially coaxial with receptacle408, so that piston406is contained within receptacle408when piston406is extended by actuator402.

FIG.5is a schematic diagram depicting a view500of a food receptacle and a weighing apparatus. As depicted, view500includes food bowl504(also referred to as a “food receptacle”), connecting wire(s)502, top shell506, load cell508, and base piece510. In one aspect, food bowl504may be similar to food bowl114. Top shell506may enclose load cell508and provide a support base for food bowl504. Load cell508may rest on base piece510. In one aspect, connecting wire(s)502communicate one or more electrical signals between processing system102and load cell508. These electrical signals may include initialization and calibration signals from processing system102to load cell508, and weight measurement signals from load cell508to processing system102.

FIG.6is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser600. As depicted, automated pet food dispenser600includes outer cover602, actuator604, insulation606, cooling unit608, support610, and food bowl612. Automated food dispenser600may be a modified version of automated food dispenser, to include refrigeration and insulation components (e.g., insulation606and cooling unit608). Actuator604may be similar to actuator104or to linear actuator206. Food bowl612may be similar to food bowl114or food bowl218. Support610may be similar to support216.

In one aspect, cooling unit608provides cooling or refrigeration functions to keep wet pet food in a pet food container (e.g., pet food container112) within a receptacle (e.g., receptacle110) at a lower temperature than an ambient temperature. Cooling unit608may also be referred to as a “refrigeration unit.” To further help maintain the lower temperature, the receptacle may be surrounded or covered by insulation606. Maintaining the wet pet food at a lower temperature than the ambient temperature helps increase food shelf life, reduce bacterial growth rates, and keep the wet pet food fresh for a longer period of time.

In one aspect, cooling unit608may be any combination of a thermoelectric cooler, a heatsink, and a fan. The thermoelectric cooler may help reduce a temperature of the wet pet food to a temperature below the ambient temperature. The heatsink may be used to dissipate any heat generated by components such as cooling unit608, or processing system102. The fan may be used to circulate air within automated pet food dispenser600to maintain a substantially constant temperature within automated pet food dispenser600.

In one aspect, processing system102monitors a temperature of the wet pet food in pet food container112, and controls cooling unit608via a feedback control loop to maintain the wet pet food at a substantially constant temperature. Such a feedback control loop may be configured such that cooling unit608is switched on or off based on commands from processing system102. This, in turn, can allow automated pet food dispenser600to account for daily and seasonal temperature fluctuations in the ambient temperature while maintaining the temperature of the wet pet food in pet food container112at a substantially constant value.

FIG.7is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser700. Some aspects of automated pet food dispenser700include enclosing components such as processing system102, actuator104, plunger106, and receptacle110in cover702. A bottom end of cover702may be open to allow dispensing of wet pet food from automated pet food dispenser into bowl704.

FIG.8is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser800. Some aspects of automated pet food dispenser800include enclosing components such as processing system102, actuator104, plunger106, and receptacle110in cover802. A bottom end of cover802may be open to allow dispensing of wet pet food from automated pet food dispenser into bowl806. Support804may provide support for automated pet food dispenser800in a manner similar to support216.

As depicted, each of cover702and802(also known as an “outer shell”) is a casing that is intended to provide environmental protection to the corresponding automated pet food dispenser. Each of cover702and802may also be designed to be cosmetically pleasing, and enhance a user experience. In one aspect, each of cover702and802provides structure and support for the internals (e.g., processing system102, actuator104, plunger106, and receptacle110), and have mounting features for securing the device to a stand or surface (e.g., support216). Each of cover702or802may also have cutouts to allow LEDs or other status indicating elements to show system status and alerts, button(s) to control the associated functions, and possibly a screen to show device status.

In one aspect, each of cover702and802includes a door (e.g., door304) which opens and allows the user to insert a food container into the device (e.g., a receptacle such as receptacle110). In one aspect, cover802also includes a stand (e.g., support804) that has a space for a food bowl (e.g., food bowl806), under which there are weight sensors (e.g., load cell118or508) to measure an amount of food currently in the bowl. In another aspect, a load cell may be integrated into a bottom of a food bowl, or bowl platform with integrated weight sensors may be used. In general, automated pet food dispenser100may include a shell (e.g., cover302, outer cover602, cover702, or cover802), electronics (e.g., processing system204and user interface202), structure (e.g., supporting structure208), actuator (e.g., actuator104or linear actuator206), food storage (e.g., pet food container112and receptacle110), and refrigeration (e.g., cooling unit608).

As depicted, automated pet food dispenser100includes a single pet food container112in a single receptacle110; however, multi-container automated pet food dispensers may also be implemented. In one design, this aspect takes the form of a carousel holding multiple pet food containers. This carousel can be rotated either manually or via an electrical motor to present different containers for dispensing. Food cartridges (e.g., pet food container112) may be inserted into the device and placed into a chamber where there are mechanical restraints to hold them in place during storage and dispensing.

In one aspect, a pet food container112may be implemented as a pouch containing wet pet food. The pouch may be constructed of a material such as plastic, which is designed to rupture when plunger106exerts a force on it. Pet food container112may also be constructed of a malleable metal such as aluminum. Such a container may be designed with one or more seams that rupture upon application of an external force by plunger106.

Advantages of automated pet food dispenser100include an ability to automatically dispense wet pet food via unique cartridges, increase shelf life of the wet pet food, reduce bacteria, and increase meal capacity. As presented, automated pet food dispenser100dispenses wet pet food substance from one or more custom-designed pouches. Automated pet food dispenser100can hold a week to a month's worth of wet cat or dog food, with years of shelf life. No manual handling or transfer of wet pet food substance is required by the owner or user.

One aspect of an automated pet food dispensing system may include:

5. Hinge (e.g., a hinged cover at a top end)

7. Electrical Motor (e.g., an electrical motor to actuate/rotate the removable carousel)

9. Power Supply (to power electronic components of the automated pet food dispenser)

Item 1 Case encapsulates and houses all mechanical and electrical components. Item 2 acts as the bottom weight to stabilize the machine. Item 3 stem connects to item 1 case at the top and item 2 base and the bottom to physically construct the automated pet food dispenser. Item 4 removable carousel is accessed by opening item 1 case via item 5 hinge vertically in a clam shell type fashion, which can then be removed to reload food cartridges (item 12). Item 4 removable carousel also spins around as dictated by the computer (item 10) on a time based or user prompted command. Item 7 motor actuates the carousel motion prompted by said command and item 8 motor will work in conjunction with item 6 plunger to extrude item 12's (food cartridge) contents into the end receptacle (item 13, food bowl). Item 10's (processing system) logic and device interconnectivity via both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi will command the actuation of any mechanical or motorized functions. The digital interface (item 11) will also be user operated to offer inputs that can control when item 10 will dispense wet pet food. Item 13 (food bowl) sits on item 2 (base) as a removable vessel for wet pet food and can be reattached via magnet.

The automated pet food dispenser may be opened from the top, pivoting on a hinge. The user can place a food cartridge into, for example, each of 14 empty chambers on the carousel. The user may close the top case, plug in the power supply and interact with the digital interface (e.g., user interface202). The user can connect the digital interface to a phone application (e.g., an application running on computing system116) and Wi-Fi, and determine the frequency and volume of food that will be extracted. Once these configurations are set, automated pet food dispenser100may have the actuator motor actuate the plunger and extract the wet pet food through a nozzle into the bowl. The actuator motor will then raise the plunger into its original state, freeing the carousel to then rotate to the next cartridge position to repeat the process. This process can occur as many times as there are full cartridges in the machine. Once the food has been consumed, the user can remove the food bowl to clean and keep the food bowl sanitary.

An orientation of the automated pet food dispenser can be reconfigured in a number of different ways and angles. The carousel can rotate 360 degrees as with the other elements to perform the same action. Extrusion of wet pet food can occur a number of ways depending on the design of pet food container112(e.g., a pet food cartridge, or “cartridge”). The cartridge can be reformed into a different shape, the motors and actuators can be reshaped or respecified or substituted by other mechanisms or motors.

A user would use automated pet food dispenser100to replace the existing process of opening a can of wet pet food and feeding their pet (e.g., a cat or a dog). Instead of opening a can of wet pet food and putting it into a bowl or plate for the pet to eat, the user would simply plug in the device, fill it with one or more pet food cartridges and set a timing function to give time-based feedings to the animal. This method of feeding wet pet food can be used for any animal that consumes a wet solid substance. It could even be used to dispense wet or solid substances that are non-edible or edible for humans and insects.

FIG.9is a block diagram depicting an embodiment of a processing system900used for implementing certain processing functions of an automated pet food dispenser. As depicted, processing system900includes communication manager902, memory904, actuator interface906, wireless interface908, processor910, user interface912, sensor interface914, timing module916, and data bus918.

In one aspect, processing system900may be similar to processing system102or processing system204. Communication manager902may be configured to manage communication between different internal components of processing system902. For example, communication manager may include components such as one or more direct memory access (DMA) controllers, input-output arbitrators, and so on. Communication manager902may also manage communication between processing system900and different external peripheral devices such as load cell118, and actuator104.

Data associated with processing operations and general functionality of automated pet food dispenser100may be stored in memory904. Memory904may store one or more instructions or instruction sets associated with running one or more programs or applications related to functioning of automated pet food dispenser100. These instruction sets may be related to controlling actuator104, and feedback control loop strategies that enable processing system900to command actuator104to stop extending plunger106when a quantity of dispensed pet food in food bowl114is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. Memory904may also store data associated with an operation of automated pet food dispenser100. For example, memory904may include a numerical value associated with the predetermined threshold. Memory904may also store data associated with feeding intervals and feeding times. Memory904may also store measurements of wet pet food dispensed, as measured by load cell118. In one aspect, memory904may be implemented using any combination of random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drives, flash memory, nonvolatile memory, or any other memory components.

In one aspect, actuator interface906is configured to interface processing system900with an actuator such as actuator104. Actuator interface906may implement actuator-specific communication protocols, such as pulse-width modulation (PWM) and other actuator and/or motor-related command protocols.

Wireless interface908may be configured to implement communication protocols associated with one or more wireless communication links such as wireless communication link120. Examples of wireless communication links include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or ZigBee.

In one aspect, processor910is configured to implement one or more processing functions associated with an operation of automated pet food dispenser100. These processing functions may include one or more mathematical or logical functions. Examples of processing functions implemented on processor910include comparing an amount of dispensed pet food with the predetermined threshold value. Processor910may be implemented as a single-core processor, or as a multi-core processor. Processor910may also include one or more graphics processing unit (GPU) arrays.

In one aspect, user interface912may interface processing system900with user interface202. User interface912may include any combination of LED drivers, switch readers, push button readers, switch debounce logic for push button inputs, LCD touchscreen interfaces, and other input/output interfaces. User interface912might also implement communication protocols such as serial peripheral interface (SPI) or inter-integrated circuit (I2C) communication protocols to communicate with one or more multiplexers and/or demultiplexers that implement an appropriate input/output mapping between processing system900and any input/output devices.

Sensor interface914may be configured to read data from one or more sensors such as load cell118. Sensor interface914may also be connected to sensors such as ambient light sensors, temperature sensors, and so on. Communication protocols such as serial peripheral interface (SPI) or inter-integrated circuit (I2C) communication may be used to interface sensor interface914with the one or more sensors. Sensor interface914may also include one or more analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) that convert any directly-input analog signals to digital signals.

In one aspect, timing module916may be configured to keep a track of time. This time data may be used to schedule one or more feedings via automated pet food dispenser100. Timing module916may include one or more phase-locked loops to maintain a synchronous clock signal. Timing module916may also include a GPS module that outputs GPS time. The GPS time may be used by timing module916to keep a track of time.

Data bus918may connect the different internal components of processing system, and route data and instructions as needed between processor910and the other components of processing system900.

FIG.10is a flow diagram depicting a method1000to automatically dispense a given quantity of pet food.

Method1000may include receiving an initialization command to dispense pet food (i.e., wet pet food) at a specific time (1002). For example, processing system102may receive an initialization command from computing system116, to dispense wet pet food at a specific time.

Method1000may include checking a current time (1004). For example, processing system102(or processing system900) may check a current time via timing module916.

Method1000may include determining whether the current time is approximately equal to a feeding time as received via the initialization command (1006). For example, processing system may compare the current time with the feeding time. If the current time is not approximately equal to the feeding time, method1000returns to1004.

If the current time is approximately equal to the feeding time, then method1000goes to1008, which may include enabling an actuator to move a plunger to dispense the wet pet food. For example, processing system102may command actuator104to move plunger106such that wet pet food contained in pet food container112is dispensed into food bowl114.

Method1000may include measuring an amount of wet pet food dispensed (1010). For example, load cell118may measure a quantity (i.e., an amount, or a mass, or a weight) of wet pet food dispensed into food bowl114.

Method1000may include determining whether a required quantity of wet pet food has been dispensed (1012). For example, processing system102may receive a measurement of the amount of wet pet food dispensed in food bowl114from load cell118. Processing system102may compare this measurement with a predetermined value that may be received as a part of the initialization command received at1002.

If the quantity dispensed (i.e., the measurement) is less than the predetermined value, then method1000returns to1008. If the quantity dispensed is greater than or equal to the predetermined value, then method1000goes to1014, which may include disabling the actuator to stop dispensing food. For example, processing system102may command actuator104to stop extending plunger106so that no more wet pet food is dispensed from pet food container112. Processing system102may also command actuator104to retract plunger106.

FIG.11is a schematic diagram depicting an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser1100. As depicted, automated pet food dispenser1100includes upper structure1102, outer housing1104, and drawer1106.

In one aspect, upper structure1102may be designed to function as a carrying handle. A user may transport automated pet food dispenser1100using upper structure1102as a carrying handle. Upper structure1102may also include one or more LED lamps that may function as status indicators for automated pet food dispenser1100. For example, the LED lamps may indicate if automated pet food dispenser1100has run out of food.

In one aspect, outer housing1104may serve as a protective covering for one or more internal elements of automated pet food dispenser1100. In one embodiment, outer housing1104is constructed of multiple connected pieces. In another embodiment, outer housing1104is constructed as a single, solid structure. Outer housing may also serve to provide cosmetic or aesthetic appeal to automated pet food dispenser1100.

Drawer1106may be configured to be a retractable drawer that can be used to support and store a food bowl such as food bowl114or218. Under normal storage, when no pet feeding is occurring, drawer1106may be retracted to be substantially flush with an outer surface of outer housing1104. In this position, the food bowl is concealed within automated pet food dispenser1100. During a feeding session, automated pet food dispenser may fill the food bowl with the requisite quantity of food. Drawer1106may then be extended outwards by a processing system (e.g., processing system102) to reveal the food bowl to the pet. After the pet consumes the food or after a specified amount of time, automated pet food dispenser1100(specifically, the processing system included in automated pet food dispenser1100) may retract drawer1106.

FIGS.12A and12Bare schematic diagrams depicting an internal structure1200of an embodiment of an automated pet food dispenser.FIG.12Adepicts an isometric view of internal structure1200, whileFIG.12Bdepicts a side view of internal structure1200. Internal structure1200may be associated with an internal structure of automated pet food dispenser1100that may be revealed if outer housing1104is removed from automated pet food dispenser1100. As depicted, internal structure1200includes user interface1202, linear actuator1204, support structure1206, cooling unit1208, plunger1210, receptacle1212, carousel1214, food bowl1216, base1218, and drawer1220. Internal structure1200may also include a processing system such as processing system102(not depicted inFIGS.12A and12B).

In one aspect, user interface1202is similar to user interface202. User interface1202may be configured to allow a user (e.g., a pet owner) to interact with automated food dispenser1100. User interface1202may include any combination of input/output devices such as push buttons, video display screens, LCD screens, touch screens, switches, incandescent bulbs, LED bulbs, haptic feedback devices, and so on. In one aspect, a user programs data such as a feeding schedule (e.g., a feeding time or a feeding time interval), and a quantity of wet pet food to be dispensed, via user interface1202. In one aspect, user input/output components associated with user interface1202may be integrated onto a printed circuit board (PCB). User interface1202may be configured to drive the one or more LEDs associated with upper structure1102.

Linear actuator1204may be similar to actuator104or linear actuator206. Linear actuator1204may receive one or more instructions or commands from a processing system such as processing system102to extend or retract plunger1210. Linear actuator1204may be any of a lead screw linear actuator, a pneumatic actuator, a hydraulic actuator, or a rigid chain-based actuator.

Support structure1206may be similar to support108. Support structure may provide a substantially rigid support to one or more internal components of automated pet food dispenser such user interface1202, linear actuator1204, cooling unit1208, plunger1210, receptacle1212, and carousel1214.

In one aspect, cooling unit1208may function in a similar manner as cooling unit608. In one aspect, cooling unit1208provides cooling or refrigeration functions to keep wet pet food in a pet food container (e.g., pet food container112) within a receptacle (e.g., receptacle1212) at a lower temperature than an ambient temperature. Cooling unit1208may also be referred to as a “refrigeration unit.” Maintaining the wet pet food at a lower temperature than the ambient temperature helps increase food shelf life, reduce bacterial growth rates, and keep the wet pet food fresh for a longer period of time.

In one aspect, cooling unit1208may be any combination of a thermoelectric cooler, a heatsink, and a fan. The thermoelectric cooler may help reduce a temperature of the wet pet food to a temperature below the ambient temperature. The heatsink may be used to dissipate any heat generated by components such as cooling unit1208, linear actuator1204, or processing system102. The fan may be used to circulate air within automated pet food dispenser1100to maintain a substantially constant temperature within automated pet food dispenser1100or within a portion of automated pet food dispenser1100.

In one aspect, processing system102monitors a temperature of the wet pet food in a pet food container such as pet food container112, and controls cooling unit1208via a feedback control loop to maintain the wet pet food at a substantially constant temperature. Such a feedback control loop may be configured such that cooling unit1208is switched on or off based on commands from processing system102. This, in turn, can allow automated pet food dispenser1100to account for daily and seasonal temperature fluctuations in the ambient temperature while maintaining the temperature of the wet pet food in pet food container112at a substantially constant value.

In one aspect, a pet food container similar to pet food container112may be inserted or placed into receptacle1212. In one aspect, receptacle1212may be referred to as a food container. At a designated pet feeding time, processing system102may command linear actuator1204to extend plunger1210into receptacle1212. Plunger1210may exert a force on the pet food container within receptacle1212. In one aspect, motion of the pet food container within receptacle1212is constrained by an insert. The insert may prevent motion of the pet food container while linear actuator1204applies a force to the pet food container via plunger1210. In another aspect, receptacle1212is constructed to have a built-in physical restraint that prevents motion of the pet food container while linear actuator1204applies a force to the pet food container via plunger1210. The force exerted by plunger1210may cause the pet food container to rupture, and the contents of the pet food container may be dispensed into food bowl1216through an opening at the bottom of receptacle1212.

In one aspect, piston1210is similar to piston106. Piston1210may be configured to be substantially coaxial with receptacle1212, so that piston1210is contained within receptacle1212when piston1210is extended by linear actuator1204.

In one aspect, a quantity of pet food dispensed may be measured by a load cell (not depicted in internal structure1200). Measurements from the load cell may be received by processing system102. Processing system102may command linear actuator1204to stop extending plunger1210when a quantity of food in food bowl1218as measured by the load cell is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. Processing system102may also retract plunger1210.

Once a requisite quantity of pet food is dispensed into food bowl1216, processing system may command an electrical motor to extend drawer1220and reveal food bowl1216to a pet. This initiates a feeding routine. Drawer1220may be similar to drawer1106. Drawer1120may be alternatively referred to as a “tray.” In one aspect, the electrical motor actuates the extension of drawer1220along a linear path, using a rack-and-pinion mechanism.

Processing system102may be configured to keep a track of time elapsed since drawer1220is extended. Processing system102may also be configured to keep a track of a weight of wet pet food remaining in food bowl1216based on one or more weight measurements from the load cell. If the time elapsed is greater than or equal to a predetermined time limit or the weight of wet pet food remaining in food bowl1216is significantly less than the dispensed quantity (suggesting that all or most of the wet pet food has been consumed), then processing system102may retract drawer1220back into base1218. Base1218may provide a concealing enclosure for food bowl1216, as well as a bottom support for internal elements of automated pet food dispenser1100.

In one aspect, drawer1220may include one or more accelerometers and/or gyroscopes to measure vibration motion of drawer1220and food bowl1216. These vibration measurements may be transmitted to processing system102. Excessive vibrations may suggest that a pet is currently in a vicinity of automated pet food dispenser1100, and might be currently feeding. Processing system102may make a decision to keep drawer1220extended while vibration measurements are at relatively higher levels. A substantial reduction in vibration levels may suggest that the pet has finished feeding and has left a vicinity of automated pet food dispenser1100. Processing system102may command drawer1220to retract responsive to this reduction.

In one aspect, processing system102is configured to determine how rapidly food is being consumed from food bowl1216. This functionality may be accomplished by computing a rate of food consumption as a function of time, where load cell readings associated with the weight of the wet pet food in food bowl1216are sampled at discrete time intervals.

In one aspect, carousel1214is configured to hold multiple receptacles such as receptacle1212. For example, carousel1214may hold six receptacles. Carousel1214may also be configured to rotate about an axis of rotation that may be substantially parallel to an axis associated with linear actuator1214and plunger1210. A user may fill each of the multiple receptacles held by carousel1214with an individual pet food container that may be similar to pet food container112.

In one aspect, carousel1214is initially positioned such that a first receptacle is substantially coaxial with plunger1210. Processing system102may initiate a pet feeding routine from a pet food container contained in this first receptacle. Processing system102may be configured to determine how much food remains in the pet food container based on how much plunger1210is extended. When plunger1210is extended to a certain length (e.g., 6 inches), processing system102may determine that a bottom of plunger1210may be close to a bottom end of the first receptacle. This, in turn, indicates that the pet food container contained within the first receptacle is substantially empty. Responsive to this determination, processing system102may retract plunger1210so that plunger1210is completely outside of the first receptacle. Processing system102may then command an electrical motor connected to carousel1214to rotate carousel1214about the axis of rotation so that a second receptacle filled with a pet food container is substantially coaxial with plunger1210. A subsequent feeding routine is then initiated from the second receptacle, till the pet food container contained in the second pet food receptacle is substantially empty. The second receptacle is then replaced by a third receptacle by rotating carousel1214, and so on, till the pet food containers in all receptacles have been used up. Processing system102may then issue one or more alerts to a user via user interface1202, or to computing system116via wireless communication link120.

Carousel1214allows extended periods of multiple unattended pet feeding sessions via the multiple receptacles. Carousel1214may be especially beneficial if a pet owner has to be out of the home for extended periods of time (e.g., a vacation).

FIG.13is a schematic diagram depicting an internal structure1300of an embodiment of automated pet food dispenser1100. As depicted, internal structure1300includes hot side plenum1302, cooling unit1304, thermal bulkhead1306, and cold side plenum1308.

In one aspect, cooling unit1304is similar to cooling unit1208. Thermal bulkhead1306may be configured to thermally isolate hot side plenum1302from cold side plenum1308. Hot side plenum1302may be a portion of an internal structure of automated pet food dispenser1100that is at a higher temperature relative to cold side plenum1308. Hot side plenum may include linear actuator1204, processing system102, user interface1202, cooling unit1208, and other components that may generate heat during operation. Thermal bulkhead1306may function to thermally isolate cold side plenum1308from the heat generated by these heat-generating components.

In one aspect, cold-side plenum1308is cooled by cooling unit1304to be at a temperature that is lower than an ambient temperature. Cold-side plenum1308may include components such as carousel1214, and receptacle1212that may further include a pet food container. Cold-side plenum1308may include a space around the multiple receptacles associated with carousel1214, whose temperatures are being controlled. Some aspects include one or more insulating features (e.g., insulation606) in outer housing1104or base1218to help regulate heat flow. Thermal bulkhead1306reduces an amount of heat transferred from hot side plenum1302to cold side plenum1308. This further helps maintain a temperature of one or more pet food containers stored in cold side plenum1308at a temperature below an ambient temperature. This further helps in maintaining pet food freshness, while reducing bacterial growth rates.

FIG.14is a schematic diagram depicting a cross-sectional view1400of a portion of automated pet food dispenser1100. As depicted, cross-sectional view includes linear actuator1402, plunger1404, receptacle1406, food bowl1408, load cell1410, and rack-and-pinion mechanism1412.

Linear actuator may be similar to linear actuator1204, plunger1404may be similar to plunger1210, receptacle1406may be similar to receptacle1212, food bowl1408may be similar to food bowl1216, and load cell1410may be similar to load cell118.

In one aspect, processing system102is configured to extend or retract drawer1220via an electrical motor that actuates rack-and-pinion mechanism1412. This extension or retraction may be associated with one or more pet feeding events. Load cell1410may be configured to measure a weight of dispensed wet pet food in food bowl1408.

FIG.15is a schematic diagram depicting a cross-sectional view of a bowl tray assembly1500. As depicted, bowl tray assembly1500includes load cell1502, food bowl1504, upper section1506, lower section1508, electrical motor1510, and base1512.

Load cell1502may be similar to load cell1410, and food bowl1504may be similar to food bowl1408. Upper section1506and lower section1508may be configured to collectively enclose internal components such as load cell1502and electrical motor1510while forming an external structure for drawer1220. Electrical motor1510may be configured to drive rack-and-pinion mechanism1412under command of processing system102. Base1512may be similar to base1218.

FIG.16is a schematic diagram depicting a view1600of automated pet food dispenser1100. As depicted, view1600shows automated pet food dispenser1100in a partially disassembled state. As depicted view1600includes outer housing1602, support structure1604, and base1606. Outer housing may be similar to outer housing1104, support structure1604may be similar to support structure1206, and base1606may be similar to base1218. In one aspect, outer housing1602may be removed from automated pet food dispenser1100along a vertical direction. Such a removal allows a user access to internal components of automated pet food dispenser1100. For example, a user may remove outer cover1100to remove empty pet food containers and/or refill one or more receptacles with new pet food containers. A service technician may remove outer cover1100to service or repair one or more components of automated pet food dispenser1100. For example, the service technician may plug in a diagnostic tool into processing system102to run fault detection and other diagnostic procedures.

FIG.17is a schematic diagram depicting a portion1700of automated pet food dispenser1100. As depicted, portion1700includes outer cover1702, food bowl1704, drawer1706, and base1708. Outer cover1702may be similar to outer cover1104, food bowl1704may be similar to food bowl1216, drawer1706may be similar to drawer1220, and base1708may be similar to base1218.

Drawer1706is depicted to be in an extended state. This extension may be initiated by processing system102during a feeding event. Processing system102may also extend drawer1706based on a user command. For example, a user may instruct processing system to extend drawer1706so that the user may remove food bowl1704for cleaning. This extension may be accomplished via rack-and-pinion mechanism1412and electrical motor1510via command from processing system102.

In one aspect, carousel1806is similar to carousel1214, base1808is similar to base1218, linear actuator1810is similar to linear actuator1204, plunger1812is similar to plunger1210, and receptacle1814is similar to receptacle1212.

In one aspect, electrical motor1802is commanded by processing system102to rotate carousel1806. Such a rotation command may be initiated by processing system102to switch between a receptacle containing a substantially empty pet food container to a receptacle containing a new pet food container. In one aspect, electrical motor1802may rotate carousel1806using rotating element1804. In one aspect, rotating element1804is a Geneva wheel or a Geneva drive. Receptacle1814and other receptacles associated with carousel1806may be removable by a user for cleaning or replacement.

Embodiments of automated pet food dispenser such as automated pet food dispenser100, automated pet food dispenser200, and automated pet food dispenser1100may include any combination of the following features:The communication link between processing system102computing system116may also include a wired communication link such as USB, Ethernet, UART, or some other wired communication interface.Embodiments of automated pet food dispensers described herein may be powered by any combination of electrical power sourced from an electrical outlet or electrical power sourced from one or more batteries.Embodiments of automated pet food dispensers described herein may include communications security and a programmable ID so that a particular dispenser can be selected using computing system116via wireless communication link120. This is beneficial for scenarios such multi-unit applications like pet hotels, animal hospitals, common carriers transporting multiple pets at a time, and so on.In one aspect, a user can fill pet food containers containing different kinds of wet pet food in different receptacles when initializing carousel1214. The user can then program processing system102(for example, via computing system116or via user interface202) to dispense a specific kind of food at a specific feeding time in the feeding schedule.Some aspects may include a user logging in to an application software running on computing system116. This application software may allow the user keep track of when a pet food container has been put in, its expiration date, and other parameters. The application software may warn the user when an expiration date associated with a pet food container is getting near.Parameters associated with scheduling feeding times and feeding amounts may include any combination of ambient temperature, previous patterns of consumption, detecting a pet's presence, an abundance or a scarcity of remaining food in the carousel, and so on.

Although the present disclosure is described in terms of certain example embodiments, other embodiments will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure, including embodiments that do not provide all of the benefits and features set forth herein, which are also within the scope of this disclosure. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.