Automated robotic system and method for preparation of food items

An automated food preparation system, comprising:

• a plurality of trays, each identified by a unique identification code, and each tray carrying a unique order wherein each unique identification code allows each unique order to be processed non-sequentially;
• at least two conveyors to convey the trays, to a plurality of stations associated with each conveyor, wherein the plurality of stations each comprise a mechanical structure to add a food component identified by the unique identification code to the unique order on each particular tray including at least a first station associated with each conveyor with a cutting module, the cutting module comprising a hopper for storing a vegetable and a cutting blade, and a second station associated with each conveyor with a fluid dispensing module;
• a plurality of sensors positioned in relation to each station the plurality of sensors positioned to determine a presence of the unique order on each particular tray as it moves on one of the at least two conveyors past each particular sensor;
• and
• an action controller coupled to the plurality of sensors which receives a first signal, indicating the presence of the unique order on each particular tray, at the first station and executes a first action by the cutting module, to slice the vegetable with the cutting module and position a sliced portion of the vegetable on the unique order with a single manipulator robot arm, the action controller receives a second signal, indicating the presence of the unique order on each particular tray, at the second station and executes a second action by the fluid dispensing module to dispense a sauce over the unique order, the action controller receives a third signal and executes a third action by adding a side order to each particular tray.