WO2009098077A1

WO2009098077A1 - Measuring container with digital display

Info

Publication number: WO2009098077A1
Application number: PCT/EP2009/000845
Authority: WO
Inventors: Karen Brown
Original assignee: Homedics Group Ltd.
Priority date: 2008-02-07
Filing date: 2009-02-06
Publication date: 2009-08-13

Abstract

A measuring container with pouring capability, comprising: a container that includes a base, a peripheral wall projecting upward from the base and which terminates at an upper rim having a pouring spout defined therein; a carrier that receives and supports the container so that measurements can be taken, the carrier including a base upon which the base of the container rests, at least one elongated band portion that removably receives and at least partially surrounds the peripheral wall of the container, and a handle attached to either or both of the base or the elongated band portion; a proximity sensing device that is carried within the skeleton carrier that measures amounts of material that are present in the container; and a user interface in signaling communication with the sensing device that visibly displays the amount measured by the sensing device and that allows control over operation of the sensing device.

Description

MEASURING CONTAINER WITH DIGITAL DISPLAY

CLAIM OF BENEFIT OF FILING DATE

The present application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/026,889, filed February 07, 2008, the contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention is directed generally to a measuring system, and more particularly a hand-operable measuring system that can measure the volume of its contents when the contents are tilted, the system is tilted or both.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Measuring ingredients has been done manually for many years. Measuring is done for many reasons; for example, it is used to control portion sizes such as for dieting, or even in the case of following a recipe in the course of cooking.

To measure the volume of a liquid or solid ingredient a measuring cup or some other volumetric scale has been used. For example, measuring cups have been used to measure a desired amount of a liquid or solid cooking ingredient or food item. Measuring cups generally include a volumetric scale that allows a user to visually measure the amount of cooking ingredient added. However, the volumetric scale may be inaccurate and a degree of skill and judgment from the user aligning the level of the ingredient with the marked scale may be required. The volumetric scale may be very coarsely graduated and may require the user to interpolate between markings, thus, reducing the accuracy of the measurement.

Also the measuring cup or jug may not be resting on a flat surface, thus, further reducing accuracy. It is possible that a tilt of even about 10° or less could disrupt readings. Furthermore, a variety of different size cups and jugs may be needed in order to fulfill various measuring tasks based on different units of measurement. Over time, small amounts of discrepancies can add up to substantial amounts of deviations from desired or otherwise prescribed amounts. One effort to provide a device that displays the volume is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,840,239, incorporated by reference; however, this device calculates the volume based upon weight properties. Also, there has been an effort to create a device that is capable of measuring volume; however, the volume is calculated based upon weight properties as discloses in U.S. Published Application No. 2007/0175673, incorporated by reference. Until the present invention, there has remained a need in the art for an improved measuring system for foods that meets one or more of the following needs: it is relatively easy to use, it is digital (e.g. does not require the user to determine the volume), it is relatively easy to store, it can measure the ingredients accurately when they are tilted (especially at low level angles that. might not be apparent to a user, but which would disrupt accurate readings), it is relatively light weight for manual operation, it is relatively easy to clean, it is durable (e.g., it is generally heat resistant, it is generally resistant to the harsh environments encountered in household automatic dishwasher machines, it is generally capable of being used in an operating microwave oven, or any combination of the foregoing), and it gives relatively reliable measurements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention meets some or all of the above-mentioned needs by providing a combination container and measuring system that integrally fit together and provide accurate measurements (i.e. digital measurements) when the measuring system is flat or titled (e.g. the measuring system is not on a flat surface or the measuring system is pouring out contents) The container fits into the measuring system (e.g., a system that includes a structural carrier that supports the container, and specifically is described herein as a skeleton carrier member) wherein the measuring system contains sensing devices that measure the amount of materials that are present in the device. Particularly preferred for use in the present invention is a system that includes one or a plurality of proximity sensors, and particularly one or a plurality of capacitive sensors, or some other sensor that that emits an electric field (e.g., an electromagnetic field, an electrostatic field or both) or signal and monitors changes to the electric field or signal in relation to a target (e.g., in relation to a target material that is measured with the measuring system). In one aspect the invention contemplates a measuring container system with pouring capability, comprising: a container that includes a base, a peripheral wall projecting upwardfrom the base and which terminates at an upper rim having a pouring spout defined therein; a carrier that receives and supports the container so that measurements can be taken, the carrier including a base upon which the base of the container rests, at least one elongated band portion that removably receives and at least partially surrounds the peripheral wall of the container, and a handle attached to either or both of the base or the elongated band portion; a sensing system that is carried within the carrier that measures amounts of material that are present in the container and optionally adjusts the measurement amount to take into account any tilt of the container, any tilt of the contents of the container or both; a user interface in signaling communication with the sensing device that visibly displays the amount measured by the sensing device and that allows control over operation of the sensing device. The aspect of the invention may be further characterized by one or any combination of the following features: the display and control device has a housing, which is located on an upper part of the handle, and which has an upper surface that includes the display and at least one control actuator; the carrier is a skeleton carrier that includes a generally vertically oriented support member that connects the base and the at least one elongated band; the sensing device includes a proximity sensing system to provide volume measurements of contents of the container; the sensing device includes a tilt sensing system that provides information about the angular disposition of the contents, the container or both; the container includes means for releasably coupling the carrier and the container; the angle of inclination of the container is measured using an incline sensor; the sensing device is powered by a battery, and the container system is used to pour contents therefrom in the absence of an electrical cord during pouring; the sensing system includes an array of capacitive sensors arranged generally vertically along a generally vertically upright member of the carrier, and the tilt sensor includes a pendulum sensor housed in the handle; the sensing device includes an array of capacitive sensors arranged generally vertically along a generally vertically upright member of the carrier that adjoins the housing of the user interface, and generally opposes the handle; and for measuring a liquid food ingredient, a solid food ingredient, a paste food ingredient, a gel food ingredient or any combination thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a. a perspective view depicting an example of a measurement system according to the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a side view depicting the measurement system of Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 3 is an overhead view depicting the measurement system of Fig. 1 ; and

Fig. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing the measurement system of Fig. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention. The structural dimensions, angles, radii of curvature, or any combination thereof in the drawings contemplate not merely those shown, but others as well. For example, without limitation, the structural dimensions, angles, radii of curvature or any combination thereof may vary from those shown in the drawings by 10% or more, by 20% or more, or even by 50% or more from those shown, and will still be within the teachings of the invention. It should also be understood that the use of a reference numeral in conjunction with a letter (e.g. A, B, or C) does not necessarily mean that the components are integrated or separate. The use of the letter with the reference numeral is only for reference purposes.

With reference to the drawings herein, and the accompanying detailed written description, the present invention pertains generally to a human operated, hand manipulable measuring system that measures contents being added or removed, preferably substantially instantaneously (i.e. substantially in real-time). One unexpected benefit achievable from the present invention is the ability to incorporate the pouring functionality achieved with traditional measuring cups with a reliable measuring device that does not necessarily require potentially subjective visual measurements by the operator. This is believed to be particularly unique because of the ability to realize a host of useful features in a device that can readily be manipulated by a human operator, using one or both hands.

Measuring jugs and cups are primarily used to measure a desired volume of a liquid or solid cooking ingredient. Generally measuring jugs and cups require a volumetric scale or markings that allow a user to measure the amount of cooking ingredient added. However, the measuring accuracy of this type of device relies upon a degree of skill and judgement from the user in aligning the level of ingredient with the marked scale. Also, the volumetric scale is typically very coarsely graduated often requiring the user to interpolate between markings thus reducing the accuracy of the measurement. Many measuring jugs and cups also rely on printed markings which can fade or wear off with repeated use. Also a variety of different size cups and jugs may be needed in order to fulfil various measuring tasks based on different units of measurement. The present invention, though possibly adapted to employ such measuring jugs and cups, provides added benefits in the way of systems that allow more accurate measurements of the contents to be taken, and which may also be used to account for any tilt of the jugs or cups (or their contents) that might distort measurements. In general, the hand-pourable measuring containers herein includes a container (e.g., a jug, a cup, a kettle, or the like) and an associated measuring system. The container generally will include a base, a peripheral wall projecting upward from the base and terminating at an upper rim having a pouring spout defined therein. The container is supported by a suitable carrier, e.g., a skeleton carrier (as will be described), which receives and supports the container so that measurements can be taken. The carrier may be part of the associated measuring system. For example, as will be illustrated, a measuring device may be incorporated into the carrier. Further, one or more displays, control actuators, or other user interface may be included on the container, the carrier, or both.

One feature of the invention envisions visually monitoring contents of the container during a filling step, a pouring step, or both. Thus, it is possible that the container may be transparent over some or all of its wall structure. Moreover, though it is possible that the carrier may comprise a substantially continuous wall structure that nestingly receives the container, preferably the carrier will include windows that permit viewing of the container. In this regard, as will be illustrated, it is possible that the carrier may be a skeleton carrier including a base; at least one elongated band (e.g., a relatively rigid band that maintains its shape upon removal of the container) connected to the base, which removably receives and at least partially surrounds the peripheral wall of the container; and a handle attached to either or both of the base or the elongated band. A preferred assembly herein may have the measurement devices carried at least in the carrier. For example, a sensing device (e.g., including one or more proximity sensors, one or more tilt sensors, or both) may be carried within the skeleton carrier and be in sufficient sensing relation to the container (and any contents) to reliably measure amounts of material that are present in the container. Measuring periodically is possible, as is substantially continuous measuring. Measuring may be done while contents are being added or removed from to the container (e.g., optionally, they may be done in substantial real-time). Thus, it is possible that a user can operate the device receiving substantially instantaneous data about the measured amounts during filling or pouring. To help achieve the most benefit from the present invention, the systems herein may include within the sensing device at least two different sensor types. For example, one sensor type may be included to measure the fill level of contents. Another sensor type may be employed to measure the tilt of the ingredients and/or the container. For example, it is possible that many surfaces upon which the container may rest may have an incline that is less than about 10^°. The tilt sensors used here will help identify the tilt and make adjustments to the measurement values. The data obtained from the sensors may be processed (e.g., by suitable electronics that may include one or more microprocessors), so that the fill level outputted to a user is adjusted to take into account the angle of tilt.

To help accomplish the data collection, processing, transmission, or any combination thereof, suitable electronics may be employed. For example, one or more printed circuit boards (preferably having a suitable microprocessor thereon, and optional programmable memory) may carry or be in signaling relationship with one or more sensors, as well as a user interface (e.g., a display, a light, an audible indicator, or any combination thereof), and any optional input devices (e.g., buttons or other actuators for communicating with the processor). In light of the foregoing, Figure 1 is a perspective view depicting one possible system of the invention (e.g., a digital measurement system) 10 according to the present invention. In this embodiment the digital measurement system 10 may include a container 12 and a measuring system 14, but in other embodiments these components may be combined into a single vessel or other suitable container and may also incorporate a separate or integral lid. Preferably the measurement system includes a carrier for the container, and any sensing device, associated electronics, and user interface

With reference to Figure 2, the present application contemplates that the container 12 may be any shape or size suitable for receiving, holding and dispensing cooking ingredients or liquids. The capacity of the container 12 may vary to suit its purpose from say 100ml to say 2000ml and the increment of measurement may also vary accordingly for example from 1ml to 25ml. The container 12 may have a structure that includes a base 16A, a generally upwardly projecting side wall 16B, and an upper rim 16C and may also include a lip or pouring spout 18 for even dispensing of cooking ingredients. The invention is not limited to a jug or cup and may be equally applied to a blender, storage jar, juicer, coffee maker, kettle, cocktail maker, food processor or any other container that is constructed to receive liquid or dry ingredients for food or drink preparation or storage. It may be conceived to receive and hold any dry ingredients, liquid or combinations such as, but not limited to, water, fruit juice, milk, wine, stock, vinegar, cream, yogurt, oil, honey, syrup, flour or sugar. The container may be sized to receive a liquid material in an amount of no more than about 4000 ml, more preferably less than about 3000 ml, and still more preferably less than about 2000 ml. The container 12 may be sized to receive a liquid material in an amount of more than about 25 ml, more preferably more than about 50 ml, and still more preferably more than about 100 ml. In accordance with one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the container 12 may be constructed of a borosilicate glass. However, the present application also contemplates that the container 12 may alternatively be constructed of, but not limited to, another glass, plastic, metal, or ceramic material, or any combination thereof. In accordance with another non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the container 12 may be removable for use in the dishwasher or microwave oven. However, the present application also contemplates that both the container 12 and measuring system 14 may be constructed so that they can be placed in a dishwasher or microwave, either separately or as a combined unit. Lastly the container 12 may be constructed of a heat resistant grade of material which would allow for use with hot liquids or ingredients that may reach or exceed 100⁰C. The container 12 may be transparent so that the user can see about how much material has been placed in the container 12. It is further contemplated that the container 12 may have volumetric markings on the side of the container 12 so that the user can approximate the amount of contents being poured into or out of the container 12. The walls of the container 12 preferably will be less than about 5 mm in thickness, and more preferably less than about 3 mm in thickness (e.g. about 2 mm).

The container 12 may be further constructed so as to allow for use within a dishwasher. Also, the container 12, and the measuring system 14, may be constructed so as to allow for use within a microwave. For example, one embodiment contemplates use of the container as a kettle to heat a liquid (e.g., a tea kettle to heat water). The measuring system 14 may be constructed so as to receive the container 12. The measuring system 14 may include a securing mechanism (not shown) that releasably couples the container 12 to the measuring system 14. The securing mechanism may allow for dispensing of cooking ingredients while preventing separation of the container 12 from the measuring system 14. Alternatively, the container 12 and measuring system 14 may be integrally formed. The measuring system 14 may also include a handle 20 to assist the user in holding the container whilst filling with or dispensing the cooking ingredients.

As indicated, in the illustrated embodiment, the measuring system 14 is constructed with a carrier that is constructed so as to receive the container 12, as well as to carry the sensing device, associated electronics, and any user interface. As indicated, the carrier may have a substantially continuous wall that nestingly surrounds and supports the container. A preferred approach is to employ a carrier that has a skeletal frame structure. For example, as seen in the drawings, the carrier may include one or a plurality of generally vertical support members 14A, which may be relatively rigid and remain generally vertical in the absence of a container within it. It may include at least one elongated band 14B that removably receives and at least partially surrounds the peripheral wall of the container. The carrier may also include a base 14C. The generally vertical support members, the at least one elongated band, and the base may be interconnected as a single integrated structure. The carrier of the measuring system 14 may also include a handle, such as the illustrated handle 20 (e.g., integrated with the other components of the carrier), the handle being shaped so as to allow the user to hold and pour the cooking ingredients from the container. For example, the handle of any device herein may be generally arcuate.

The carrier may include a user interface included in a housing 30, and having a display on an upper surface of the housing, which may also serve as the upper surface of the handle. The housing may have a lower surface that is substantially juxtaposed with the rim of the container. The housing may be connected at opposite ends to the carrier (e.g., between the handle and a generally vertical support member of the carrier). The housing may carry a load during a filling or pouring operation. The arrangement of the handle and the other structural components may be such that all of the components are tilted during a pouring operation, that the contents of the container are visible from the side during pouring, or both. As can be seen from the drawings the structure of a preferred carrier effectively defines a skeleton.

In general, the carrier of the measuring system will nestingly receive the container so that the container is generally stable during filling and pouring steps. For example, the container may directly contact the carrier. The contact may be along some or all of the outer surface of the side wall of the container. One preferred approach is to configure the container and carrier so that there is contact between the container and the carrier that spans (intermittently, continuously, or both) a height from the base of the container upward toward the rim, e.g., at least about 70% of such height, and more preferably at least about 80%. Preferably, there is some contact between the carrier and the side wall at a height that is above more than one half of the total height of the container. Optionally, the measuring system may include a securing mechanism (not shown) that releasably couples the container to the measuring system. Any suitable releasable latch, interlock, or other securing mechanism may be employed. The use of the securing mechanism may allow for dispensing of the cooking ingredients while preventing separation of the container from the measuring system. Alternatively, it is also possible that the container and measuring system may be integrally formed. In one non-limiting example, the measuring system 14 may include one or more sensors 22 which detect the fill level in the jug. In accordance with one non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the sensors 22 may be capacitive based as described below. While a single strip-like configuration of sensors 22 is depicted herein, it is understood that the sensors 22 may have any configuration suitable for determining the level of ingredients in the container 12.

In alternative embodiments the sensors may be in another format such as, but not exclusively, electrodes or photo-electric based sensors, or in the preferred embodiment the sensors may be incorporated in the measuring system 14 and positioned outside of the container 12, but in other embodiments they may be integrated into the container 12 or positioned within the container 12 and may optionally be removable. The measuring system 14 may include one or more sensors 22, preferably one or more proximity sensors. One preferred approach is to employ capacitive sensors to measure the amount of cooking ingredients within the container 12 regardless of the position, angle, or the shape of the container 12. While a strip-like configuration or an array of sensors 22 is depicted herein, it is understood that sensors 22 may have any configuration suitable for determining the volume of cooking ingredients in the container 12. When employed, a strip or array of sensors may contain between about 1 and 300 sensors, more preferably between about 10 to 150 sensors, and still more preferably between about 25 to 75 sensors (e.g. 48 sensors). Each individual sensor may have a largest dimension (e.g., length, width, diameter or otherwise) between about 1 to 10 mm, more preferably between about 2 to 7 mm, and still more preferably between about 3 and 5 mm (e.g. the sensor is 3.4mm by 3.4mm). In general, the sensor may include one or more sensors that respond to the presence of an object (e.g., the target material being measured) in an electrostatic field provided by the sensor (e.g., via an electrode of the sensor). The sensors (e.g., the outer surface of any sensor electrode) preferably will be spaced relatively close to the target measuring location; for example within about 15 mm from any targeted matter that is contained in the container, and more preferably less than about 10 mm (e.g., about 6 mm or less). One preferred approach is to locate a plurality of sensors in the carrier, and to space the sensors generally vertically in relation to each other, such as in the form of an array or strip of sensors that includes sensors arranged with the container along more than about one half of the height, more preferably at least about 70% of the height of the container, or even substantially the entire height of the container. A plurality of such strips may be employed. For example, a plurality of strips may be employed in circumferentially spaced locations substantially around the exterior of the side wall of the container. In regard to the illustrative embodiment depicted in the drawings, it is contemplated that the sensors may be located on two or more of the generally vertically oriented support members designated by reference numeral 14A. The manner of taking measurements may be any suitable manner taking into account the nature of the sensors. To illustrate, for a pouring operation, it may be expected that the presence of matter will be sensed in the upper extremities of the container by forward located (e.g., toward the spout, rather than the handle, as seen in the drawings) sensors. In contrast, sensors located toward the rear (e.g., by the handle, as in the drawings), will detect the absence of matter, as tipping will displace the contents toward or away from the spout. The respective signals can be compared and processed using the microprocessor to derive information about the amount of the contents. It is also contemplated that the sensors may only be located on one of the generally vertically oriented support members.

It is possible that the systems herein may employ at least two discrete sensors (or arrays of sensors) that are spaced remotely from each other (e.g., by a distance of at least one- third, or even one-half of the largest vertical dimension of the container; by a distance of at least one-third, or even one-half of the largest horizontal dimension of the container; or both). Determining the measurement may thus contemplate compiling information sensed by each discrete sensor (or arrays of sensors), and processing that information to correlate the information with a measurement value, with the identification that a threshold value has been met, or both. It is possible that the systems herein may employ one single sensor (or one single array of sensors). Determining the measurement may thus contemplate compiling information about the intensity of any signal sensed by the sensor (or array of sensors), and processing that information to correlate the information with a measurement value, with the identification that a threshold value has been met, or both. For example, in what is hereafter referred to as pure capacitance mode, each pad of the linear array may be routed one at a time through analogue multiplexers to a single capacitive measuring circuit where the capacitance of the selected pad may be measured. If the container has contents in front of the selected sensor pad then the capacitance of that pad will be larger. Alternatively, for example, in what is hereafter referred to as transmitter/receiver mode, an electrostatic field may be radiated and the received signal measured. One or more nearby pads may be selected through a multiplexer arrangement so that one pad may act as a radiating transmitter. The radiated field may come back through the container and be sensed by a pad, which may be selected through a multiplexer to a single electric field measuring circuit where either the voltage or injected current may be measured. The contents may absorb the arc and the transmission may not be returned, or may be returned in an increased or diminished amount. For example, if the container is empty, after emission of an arc from a capacitive sensor, the field will come back through the container and be sensed. If the container has significant contents near the sensor pads, the contents will absorb the arc and the transmission may not be returned, or may be returned in a diminished amount. (I.e. a small amount of material on the surface of the inner wall will increase the signal returned to the receiving sensor.) A microprocessor height-determining algorithm may be written that will adjust for this calculate the correct height.

A tree arrangement may be used with the transmitter and/or receiver pads. For example, one non-limiting arrangement this consists of an analogue eight way multiplexer with its common to the capacitive measuring circuit or electric field transmitting source. The eight inputs are connected to the commons of at most eight other analogue multiplexers whose eight inputs are connected to the transmitter and/or receiver pads. The measuring sensors 22 may also be constructed so as to sense differing volumes of cooking ingredients entering the container 12. For example, according to one non- limiting aspect of the present invention, the measuring sensors 22 may be capable of sensing cooking ingredient volumes that range between 500 ml to 1.5 liters. The present application further contemplates that the container 12, and the measuring system 14, may be fashioned so as to allow measurement of a small volume of cooking ingredient. For example, according to another non-limiting aspect of the present invention, the measuring system 14 may be capable of measuring volumes as small as 1 ml to 100 ml.

The sensors 22 may be embedded in the generally vertical wall 14A nearest the handle 20. They may be located on a PCB 36 that includes suitable electronics (e.g., at least one microprocessor, multiplexer, memory, or any combination), or otherwise in signaling relationship with the PCB or electronics that operate the system. It is possible that some residue of contents will remain on a wall of the container after pouring of the contents. For example, a film of a viscous fluid may remain on the wall, and its presence could trigger a false reading that the container is full when it has been emptied. By using a pure capacitance mode this film may increase the capacitance over the pad. One non-limiting embodiment of the sensor may address this in a way that eliminates these effects and increases the notional capacitance change when a significant amount of material is present. This may be done by using both pure capacitance mode and transmitter receiver mode at the same time in a combined mode of operation. For example, if the pure capacitance mode functions by injecting current into the selected pad and measuring the voltage reached, a nearby pad may be driven as a transmitter so that it injects current through an electric field arc into the same selected pad. If a film is present, however, the transmission of the arc may increase. This transmission may be done in an AC phase angle so that it makes the capacitance measuring circuit see a smaller notional capacitance. This may be accomplished by increasing the capacitance over the pad by using the pure capacitance mode, thus nullifying the effects of the film. If a significant amount of material is present this additional effect of making the measuring circuit see a smaller notional capacitance may be eliminated as the arc may be absorbed; thus, the measuring circuit may see a larger notional capacitance caused by the pure capacitance effect and the absorption. For example, the PCB 36 may also contain a plurality of driven strips 40 that function to sense whether the container is full or whether there is only a thin fluid layer on the surface of the container. The driven strips 40 may be generally parallel to the sensors 22 and may be located in close proximity to the sensors 22, but are not located close enough to cause interference with the operation of the sensors but at an optimal distance for maximum sensitivity to the presence or absence of material. For example if the combined pure capacitance mode and receiving sensor pad has a thin wall of glass separating it from the sensed target material that electric field arc from the transmitter pad goes out of the glass and back into the glass to the receiving sensor pad rather than directly through the glass to the receiving sensor pad. The sensors 22 may have a removable cover, a protective layer, or both, which covers the sensors, driven strips, multiplexers, and the PCB so that the components are protected from contaminants (e.g. liquid or solids that are poured in the container). The cover or layer preferably will have a thickness less than about 3 mm. It may be a film or other membrane. It may be a molded plastic part. Also, the cover or layer may be detachable from the carrier so that direct access to sensors is afforded, or to allow cleaning. It is possible that the cover or layer is interchangeable with other covers or layers having different material characteristics.

As discussed, one preferred component is a capacitive sensor, which may be shielded or unshielded. The sensor may include some or all of a probe, an oscillator, a rectifier filter, a filter circuit, and an output circuit. If one or more of the above features is omitted, the sensor may be employed in combination with another device or element that performs the function of the omitted structure.

Suitable sensors are available from Sensatech Limited. Possible sensor technology is described in the UK Patent Application Publications Nos. GB2312514A, published on October 29, 1997 and GB2340248A, published on February 16, 2000, incorporated by reference herein. To help improve accuracy, it is possible that the measuring system may include one or more features. As mentioned, for example, the use of one or more residue sensors may be used, such as to help address potential sources of false readings. A driven strip may be made to include a one or a plurality of elongated pads which may be carried on a common substrate. An elongated pad may be driven (i.e. driven strip 40) with an electric field to enhance the sensitivity and increase the immunity to the effects of liquid left behind on the surface of a container. The result of using the driven strip may result in three different outcomes. These three outcomes are (1 ) the container is full, (2) the container is empty, and (3) there is a residual fluid layer on the inside surface of the container. The driven strip 40 determines what is in the container by transmitting an arc through the container 12 and into the contents of the container 12. If the container is completely empty the arc will come back through the container 12 and be sensed. If the container has contents the contents may absorb or delay the arc and the transmission may not be returned. If the container is not full, but has residual contents the arc may return to the sensor at a different rate, therefore, indicating that there is a thin layer on the surface of the container. Use of the driven strip thus helps to allow the capacitance reading to be corrected, when residual contents are present, so that a more accurate reading can be produced. The device may include a feature to minimize parasitic capacitances and optimize isolation in the circuitry and decrease problems caused by effects of large differences in impedance near the sensor pads compared to that of the target space by using driven conductive areas. (I.e. the voltage of the surrounding components will be driven or have voltage applied to them; thus, creating a guard plane so that the sensors do not see the voltage field of the other components) The device may use the teachings of UK Patent Application Publications Nos. GB2312514A, published on October 29, 1997 to minimize the parasitic capacitances, incorporated by reference herein. For example, pages 3-7 and claims 1-7 of the UK Patent Application Publication No. GB2312514A, published on October 29, 1997 teach how parasitic capicitances are minimized or reduced. The device may use the teachings of UK Patent Application Publication No. GB2340248A, published on February 16, 2000 to reduce switching noise created by charging and discharging. For example, pages 1-5 and claims 1 and 4.

As indicated, the sensors may electronically communicate with a microprocessor (not shown) provided on a printed circuit board (PCB). The sensors may be used in conjunction with one or a plurality of multiplexers, such as a multiplexer (not shown), which are provided on a PCB. The multiplexers may be located on an opposite side of the PCB relative to any sensors 22 and driven strips 40 present. It is contemplated that each multiplexer operates in conjunction with multiple sensors. Each multiplexer may process signals from at least 6 or 8 or more sensors. For example, as discussed, one preferred multiplexer is an 8-channel analog multiplexer that is available for sale by NXP under the designation 74HC4051. The ratio of multiplexers to sensors (i.e. the number of channels in each multiplexer) may be less than about 1 :20, more preferably less than about 1 :15, and still more preferably less than about 1:10. The ratio of multiplexers to sensors may be more than about 1 :1 , more preferably more than about 1 :4, and still more preferably more than about 1 :6. In one non-limiting example, the sensors may electronically communicate with a microprocessor (not shown) and an algorithm may be used to convert the fill level detected by the sensors to a volume measurement which can be output on the display 26. The display 26 may be constructed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) or light emitting diode (LED) display or any other suitable type of display. During sensing, different sensors may produce one or more signals that are transmitted to a first set of multiplexers, which may then forward a signal to one or more second set of multiplexers. It is possible that multiplexers (e.g., the second set of multiplexers) may send the capacitance signal to the microprocessor, e.g., it sends the signal to an analog circuit, which converts the capacitance signal to a frequency, and the frequency signal is then sent to the microprocessor. The microprocessor may use the electrical signals received from the sensors via the multiplexer coupled to each group of sensors in order to determine the volume of cooking ingredients entering the container. For example, the microprocessor may be programmed with a suitable algorithm that converts the data obtained from the analog circuit to a measurement value (e.g., liters, grams, etc.) that is outputted to a user. The microprocessor may be programmed with a suitable algorithm that compares the data obtained from the analog circuit with a stored threshold value (e.g., a value corresponding with a desired recipe quantity) and when the threshold is met, that fact is outputted to a user.

It is possible that two or more different types of sensors may be employed in the systems of the present invention, with each different type of sensor relying upon a different principle of operation. For example, an inclination sensor, such as a pendulum sensor, may be employed to monitor tilt angles (i.e. 10 degrees off of horizontal) of the container. The pendulum sensor may be employed, along with one or more proximity sensor, such as a capacitive sensor. As seen in the embodiment of the drawings, one or more swing pendulums 34 and/or one or more angle indicators or sensors 42 may be used. The swing pendulum 34 rotates in response to gravity on a pivot 44, while the angle indicator or sensor 42 measures the angle of the swing pendulum 34. The one or more, preferably at least two, angle sensors (e.g., angle sensors 42 including at least two coplanar generally arcuate sensor pads are placed near each other (e.g. 90 degrees to each other) and located on a PCB 50 in the handle 20 that each measure the change in angle of the swing pendulum 34) measure the change in capacitane of the pendulum to measure the angle of the measurement system. In one non-limiting example the swing pendulum may have a conductive surface that is connected either directly or capacitively through the bearing to the local earth. The pendulum may partially cover one ore more of the coplanar sensor pads; thus, making a large increase of capacitance that may be approximately proportional to the area of the sensor pad covered by the pendulum. The amount of the pad or pads covered may be measured (i.e. the change in capacitance of the pendulum is measured) and may be used to measure the angle of the pendulum and thus the angle of the container. In another non-limiting example the sensing the position of the pendulum may still work if the pendulum is coated with a non- earthed conductive surface or is composed completely out of insulating material. When multiple angle sensors are used each angle sensor may create its own measurement in relation to the pendulum, and the measurements may be averaged together to eliminate the effects of distance from the PCB to the pendulum (i.e. the pendulum moves closer or further from the angle sensors as it swings along the pivot point). For example, the use of multiple sensor pads in each of the angle sensors may allow for a correction to be made if the gap between the pendulum and angle sensors changes, as well as the common mode effect caused changes in temperature of the system, which may reduce the manufacturing tolerances and specifications required to make a high quality measuring system. This information may then relayed to the microprocessor (e.g., via second multiplexer, then the analog circuit, where the capicatance is converted into frequency, then to the microprocessor) where the microprocessor corrects the volume determination in the container to take into account the angle at which the container is being held. Thus, the teachings herein contemplate means for and/or a step for correcting volume determination based upon a reading sensed by a sensor that operates on a principle different from the proximity sensor employed (e.g., it uses a pendulum sensor in combination with capacitive sensors)

It is possible that the volume of the ingredients may be measured while container is being filled. It is also possible that the volume of the ingredients may be measured while the container is being emptied (i.e. the contents are being poured out). In accordance with one non-limiting example the present invention may have, one or more angle sensing devices may be used either to compensate for angular tilt of the product from the horizontal plane, or to warn the user via the display 26 or via another warning signal, that the product is not level and requires levelling. The angle sensor may also communicate with the microprocessor to prevent an inaccurate volume from being shown on the display 26 whilst the jug is tilted. The angle sensor(s) may be a separate device, such as but not limited to, the angle sensor mentioned herein. Alternatively the angle sensing may be achieved by incorporating additional sensors in suitable positions around the measuring system 14 to detect any relative changes in level around the container 12.

It is further contemplated that the carrier member may have sensors on only one of the generally vertically oriented support members and will not use a swing pendulum. One non-limiting example of how the measurement system determines volume may use a capacitive based level sensing device including an electronic system, matrix of pads, and conductive areas that look through an insulator and measure the height of a the material, hereafter referred to as a liquid, that may have a conductor or a insulator on the other side. The capacitance of the individual pads of the matrix may be measured using multiplexers so that one capacitive measuring circuit may be used. The height of the liquid may be found by using an appropriate algorithm. In one configuration, a long pad is driven with an electric field to enhance the sensitivity and increase the immunity to the effects of liquid left behind on the surface of the container and to pads of the matrix may be used along with a swinging pendulum to measure the angle of the device. The device may minimises parasitic capacitances and optimises isolation in the circuitry and decreases problems caused by effects of large differences of impedance near the sensor pads compared to that of the target space by use of driven conductive areas. This invention may address and decrease the following problem effects with existing electric field sensors: (1) lack of isolation between the pads in the matrix due to on pcb parasitic capacitances and multiplexer parasitic capacitances that can limit sensitivity; (2) noise glitches generated by the switching that can limit the speed of scanning and the accuracy of the data set; (3) the effects of left behind liquid coating of the surface near the sensor pads; (4) the compensation in finding volume eventhough there is a change in covered height of a single strip of sensors as the angle of the container changes; (5) large capacitance or conductance differences due to variations in the target material; and (6) uncontrolled mechanical changes in the angle sensor and temperature changes in the measuring electronics.

For example, one configuration has a strip of about 48 (approximately 3.4mm) square sensor pads on a pcb on the outside of an approximately 2mm thick glass container. There may be an approximately 2mm wide strip parallel to the matrix strip and an approximately 4mm distance driven so as to effectively decrease the capacitance measured. It also may have one or more angle sensor consisting of two coplanar sensor pads each measuring the change in capacitance and thus the angle of a freely swinging in one dimension pcb constructed pendulum with a conductive surface. The two measurements may be averaged to eliminate the effects of distance from pcb to pendulum surface and temperature effects.

The measuring system 14 may also include a user interface 24 in electrical communication with the microprocessor in a wired or wireless configuration. This user interface may include the display 26 and any number of control buttons 28. The user interface 24 according to the present invention may be fixed, adjustable (eg angularly adjustable with respect to the container 12), removable, movable or slidable and may be any size and in any position. The control buttons may be used for a number of different purposes, such as, but not limited to, powering the device on and off, re-calibrating the device, setting a new or temporary zero datum for the volume measurement, and changing the units of measurement on the display (for example from millilitres to fluid ounces, pints or cups). Any graduations of measurement units are fully contemplated. Figure 3 illustrates that the user interface 24 may include a display 26 (preferably contained in a housing) for displaying the volume of cooking ingredients sensed within the container 12. The display 26 may be constructed of a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) screen or any other suitable type of display. It may include an analog gauge. The display 26 may display the amount of cooking ingredients entering the container 12 as determined by the microprocessor in communication with the measuring sensors 22. In addition, the microprocessor may pre-process the amount before communicating this reading to the display 26. The user interface 24 according to the present invention may be fixed, adjustable (e.g. angularly adjustable with respect to the container 12, removable, movable, or slidable. The user interface 24 may also include any number of control buttons 28. The control buttons 28 may be used to change the displayed volume measurement units. For example, the control buttons 28 may change the volume displayed between milliliters, UK pints/fluid ounces, U.S. pints/fluid ounces, and U.S. cups. The measuring system 14 may additionally incorporate the means to measure or calculate and display other non- volumetric units of measurement such as, but not limited to, temperature and calories. Any gradations of measurement units are fully contemplated. Further, the control buttons 28 may include a button for on/off functionality, or other buttons to provide additional functions. According to one aspect of the present invention, the microprocessor and display 26 may update the output rapidly to keep pace with the addition of cooking ingredients to the container The user interface 24 may also allow the user the option to input a specific volume of cooking ingredients desired using the control buttons 28 prior to filling the container 12. Once the measuring system 14 determines the set volume has been reached, a visual, tactile or audible signal may activate informing the user. For example, if the user inputs 200ml as the desired amount, once the measuring system 14 determines that 200ml has been reached, there may be a signal such as a flashing LED, flashing '200ml' on the display 26, a vibrating pulse, and/or audible beep. Additional signals may also be used to pre-warn the user as the volume approaches the set volume, or if it exceeds the set volume. The user interface 24 may also allow the user to preset one or more regularly used volume measures. This may be achieved by placing the desired measure into the container 12 then pressing one of the control buttons 28 or by using the control buttons to set a volume on the display 26. These preset measures may then be used and displayed as user defined measurement units on the display. For example, in an application such as an electric kettle or coffee maker, the user might preset their regular cup or mug size by pouring one cup or mug of water into the container 12 and pressing the appropriate control button 28. This measure may then be recognised by the measuring system 14 as one unit of measure and the display 26 may then display these user defined units as the container 12 is filled or emptied. The PCB may also include a memory, such as electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory (EPROM). The user interface may also be used to store or recall any number of recipes, utilising an EPROM or similar memory device on the PCB. The recipe may appear on the display 26 and the user may view the recipe while measuring each required ingredient. The user may use the control buttons 28 to recall a stored recipe from the memory and have the recipe appear on the display 26.

The container may be a cup, jug, kettle, blender, or cocktail maker that is constructed so as to receive and hold any fluid or fluid mixture (some of which it will be appreciated are a gel or a paste) such as, but not limited to, water, fruit juices, milk, wine, stock, vinegar, cream, yogurt, oils, honey, or syrup. The container and the digital measuring system herein may be capable of measuring dry foods or cooking ingredients. For example, the digital measuring system 10 may include measuring sensors 22 capable of measuring flour, sugar, spices, grains, diced foods, flakes, or other particulated solids. Furthermore, the present invention contemplates that the digital measuring system may be capable of measuring any combination of dry, liquid, paste and/or gel foods or ingredients. The measuring system may include a weight sensing system (not shown) for weighing the amount of cooking ingredients placed within the container. With reference to Figure 2, the base 30 of the measurement system 14 may include a plurality of load cells, piezoelectric sensors, or any other suitable type of weight sensing system that may effectively weigh the amount of cooking ingredient within the container 12. The weight sensing system may also be in electrical communication with the microprocessor. As such, the user may operate the control buttons 28 on the user interface 22 so as to switch between measuring the volume and weight of the cooking ingredient within the container 12. Furthermore, the display 26 may change from displaying the unit volume measurement to displaying unit weight measurements such as kilograms, ounces, and pounds. The teachings herein also contemplate the use of one or more an energy supply, such as a source to run the sensors, user interface, and display. Examples of suitable energy sources may include, but are not limited to, one or more of a capacitor, a battery (e.g., a rechargeable battery), a solar cell, kinetics (e.g. a device that converts motion into electricity), or even a thermoelectric device that converts heat into electricity and vice versa. The system herein may be a cordless system. Use of the system may include filling the container, pouring contents from the container, or both free of an attached electrical cord.

A preferable embodiment of the invention includes a battery (e.g. a lithium coin battery such as a CR2032 battery). The battery may be concealed and protected by a cover that may be located on the front or back of the base 14C of the measuring system 14 and accessed through the bottom of the base or the front of the base when the container 12 is removed. The cover may be screwed into the base 14C and may be made of stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, plastic, etc. Thus, the battery may be replacable via the cover. The container, the measuring system (e.g., the carrier), or both may contain one or more heating elements for heating contents. This heating element may use battery power, electricity from a plug, or any of the other power sources suggested above. It may include a suitable mixing blade. Figs. 1-3 of United States Provisional Application Serial No. 61/026,889, filed February 07, 2008, incorporated by reference herein, show several of the herein-discussed embodiments of the present invention, which are exemplary and are not limiting. The present invention is customizable with embodiments having different sizes, volumes, and heights. Furthermore, the present invention may include custom designs that could either be printed on the container or the skeleton carrier member or etched on the container or skeleton carrier member. Among the other features of the invention are that the system herein may be operated free of requiring a user to enter the identity of any specific ingredient into the system (e.g., via the user interface), so that a stored value for the ingredient may be retrieved. The system may be free of a strain gauge load cell that is responsive to loads. The system may be used in measuring dynamic conditions within the container as contents are added or removed. Use of the system may include measuring a mixture of different materials each having different dielectric characteristics.

While embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is not intended that these embodiments illustrate and describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A measuring container system with pouring capability, comprising: a. a container that includes a base, a peripheral wall projecting upward from the base and which terminates at an upper rim having a pouring spout defined therein; b. a carrier that receives and supports the container so that measurements can be taken, the carrier including a base upon which the base of the container rests, at least one elongated band portion that removably receives and at least partially surrounds the peripheral wall of the container, and a handle attached to either or both of the base or the elongated band portion; c. a sensing system that is carried within the carrier that measures amounts of material that are present in the container and optionally adjusts the measurement amount to take into account any tilt of the container, any tilt of the contents of the container or both; and d. a user interface in signaling communication with the sensing device that visibly displays the amount measured by the sensing device and that allows control over operation of the sensing device.

2. The container system of claim 1 , wherein the display and control device has a housing, which is located on an upper part of the handle, and which has an upper surface that includes the display and at least one control actuator.

3. The container system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the carrier is a skeleton carrier that includes a generally vertically oriented support member that connects the base and the at least one elongated band.

4. The container system of any of claims 1 through 3, wherein the sensing device includes a proximity sensing system to provide volume measurements of contents of the container.

5. The container of any of claims 1 through 4, wherein the sensing device includes a tilt sensing system that provides information about the angular disposition of the contents, the container or both.

6. The container system of any of claims 1 through 5, wherein the container includes means for releasably coupling the carrier and the container.

7. The container system of any of claims 1 through 6, wherein the angle of inclination of the container is measured using an incline sensor.

8. The container system of any of claims 1 through 7, wherein the sensing device is powered by a battery, and the container system is used to pour contents therefrom in the absence of an electrical cord during pouring.

9. The container of any of claims 1 through 8, wherein the sensing system includes an array of capacitive sensors arranged generally vertically along a generally vertically upright member of the carrier, and the tilt sensor includes a pendulum sensor housed in the handle.

10. The container of any of claims 1 through 9, wherein the sensing device includes an array of capacitive sensors arranged generally vertically along a generally vertically upright member of the carrier that adjoins the housing of the user interface, and generally opposes the handle.

11. Use of the container of any of claims 1 through 10 for measuring a liquid food ingredient, a solid food ingredient, a paste food ingredient, a gel food ingredient or any combination thereof.