Absorbent pad for brewing devices
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing absorbent pads for brewing devices do not effectively address the issue of spills and messes caused by brewing beverages, particularly in single-cup systems, and lack a daisy shape, sustainable construction, and disposability.
Innovation Solution
A disposable absorbent pad with a daisy shape, made from biodegradable and recyclable materials, designed to fit within the catch tray of brewing devices to absorb spills and reduce the need for frequent cleaning, featuring a protrusion and suitable absorbent material for efficient liquid absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a disposable absorbent pad is used, then cleaning frequency is reduced and maintenance is simplified, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a disposable absorbent pad that is discarded after use, eliminating the need for cleaning and maintenance of the catch tray. This disposable approach directly reduces cleaning frequency while the simple pad design minimizes added complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbent pad is designed to be discarded after absorbing spills, converting the harmful mess into a removable waste product. This eliminates the need to clean the catch tray itself, as the contaminated pad is simply removed and replaced
2Object-affected harmful factors
If absorbent material is added to catch spills, then mess reduction is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent pad utilizes porous absorbent material that passively captures spills through capillary action and adsorption. This material-based solution effectively reduces mess without requiring additional mechanical components or complex manufacturing processes
Solution Approach 2:
The pad uses inexpensive absorbent materials in a single-use configuration, keeping per-unit manufacturing costs low. The simplicity of the disposable design allows for cost-effective production while effectively addressing spill containment
3Adaptability or versatility
If a daisy-shaped pad is used, then adaptability to catch tray geometry is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The absorbent pad features an asymmetric daisy shape with petals of varying sizes and positions, designed to conform to the specific geometry of the catch tray. This asymmetric design improves adaptability to the irregular catch tray surface while the petal structure allows for straightforward molding or cutting processes
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The absorbent pad effectively captures spills and drips, minimizing mess and maintenance, while being suitable for both personal and commercial use, and is inexpensive to implement and maintain.
Implementation Method 1
an absorbent pad, shaped in the form of a daisy, for use in single-cup brewing devices... to absorb spills and drips associated with pouring and brewing coffee
Implementation Method 2
suitable absorbent material for efficient liquid absorption
Data Source
AI summary
An absorbent pad for brewing devices is disclosed herein. The absorbent pad for brewing devices comprises an absorbent pad, shaped in the form of a daisy, for use in single-cup brewing devices. The device may be used in the coffee cup catch tray of single-cup brewing systems to absorb spills and drips associated with pouring and brewing coffee. The device eliminates the need of frequently washing the catch tray located under the cup rest. One version of the device may be manufactured using biodegradable, recyclable, disposable material. Current dimensions of the device are approximately 2″ in diameter but may be manufactured in different sizes depending on intended use. The device can be used in private or commercial settings. The absorbent pad catches the remaining drops of coffee after a cup is made and further prevents the catch tray form getting messy.