OnionBot | Python API
A collaborative computational cooking robot using computer vision built with Raspberry Pi
3D files for building an OnionBot
About
OnionBot tackles the challenge of automating pan cooking. Cooking progress is tracked by a Raspberry Pi 4, using a wide-angle camera and thermal camera mounted above the induction cooker. Recipes are processed by a Python script, and a servo motor directly drives the stove control knob to adjust the power setting.
The final hardware design was reached through several prototype iterations, improving aesthetic design, signal interference, and lens condensation issues. The electronics are displayed on a board to help make understanding more accessible.
The goal of this project is automation without unnecessary complexity. After all, we are not replacing the chef but giving them multi-tasking superpowers! Since there is no actuator more flexible and dextrous than the human, a touch screen interface called ‘sous-chef’ shows instructions, reminders, and alerts. OnionBot watches the pan so that you can focus on culinary creativity!
Required components
The complete components list can be found here
Known issues
- Sensor assembly gets in the way of cooking, should be wall/upper cupboard mounted higher up
- Total build cost is currently very high, needs to be iterated down to maker-friendly price
- Print requires modification before parts fit
- Blower is way oversized making overall assembly large.
TODO
- Explore building into a cheap IKEA hob to bring cost down
- Design new maker-friendly easily printable parts
The OnionBot idea was developed through a research project at Imperial College London
Check out the paper for technical details in much more depth!
OnionBot: A System for Collaborative Computational Cooking - ArXiv
Interested in building a cooking automation robot?
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