Apparatus for producing a beverage from a capsule
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional beverage brewing machines face issues with complex capsule ejection mechanisms, risk of capsules getting stuck, residual water and liquid droplets, and the need for frequent cleaning due to dripping during and after brewing.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a capsule disengaging mechanism that deforms the capsule rim to facilitate easy removal, combined with a pump system that creates under-pressure to prevent liquid drips during capsule removal, ensuring a clean and efficient brewing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If piercing means are used to pierce through capsules, then beverage extraction is enabled, but capsule ejection becomes complex and capsules may get stuck
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the harmful piercing action from the ejection mechanism. The piercing function remains in the injector head while the ejection mechanism uses a simple lifting element that engages the capsule rim without piercing, thereby simplifying the ejection system while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using piercing means for both injection and ejection, the invention inverts the approach by using a non-piercing lifting element for ejection. The capsule is lifted from below by engaging the rim, opposite to the traditional downward ejection approach
2Ease of operation
If conventional capsule holders are used, then capsules are held securely, but residual liquid drips and cleaning is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention converts the harmful dripping liquid into a beneficial sealed system. The capsule holder is designed with sealing surfaces that prevent liquid escape, and any residual liquid is contained within the holder structure, transforming the dripping problem into a contained system that requires no cleaning
3Reliability
If hermetically closed capsules are used, then beverage freshness is maintained, but capsule removal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention exploits the flexibility of the capsule rim (a thin film structure) to enable easy removal. The lifting element engages the flexible rim, which deforms to allow engagement and then flexes back to release, providing reliable removal without compromising capsule integrity during brewing
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 apparatus allows for easy and reliable capsule removal, prevents dripping, and maintains cleanliness, making the brewing process more user-friendly and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
a pump system that creates under-pressure to prevent liquid drips during capsule removal
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for preparing a beverage from capsules, including a liquid supply system (12) comprising a water reservoir (14) and a pump (16), an extraction block (8) comprising an injection block (9) including an injector head (28) and a housing (40), and an extraction mechanism (6) comprising a capsule holder (10) configured to receive a capsule. The injector head comprises an injection plate (27) having plurality of inflow injectors (34) with internal liquid channels (37) configured to pierce through a lid (30) of a capsule (26). The injector head comprises a water inlet (42) connected to the water reservoir (14) and an actuating mechanism (50) configured to displace the injector head between an open position whereby the capsule can be inserted or removed from the extraction block to a closed position whereby the injector head is sealingly closed against the capsule holder.