Beverage brewing device for automatically brewing and dispensing single cup quantities of beverage through a vending machine with minimal manual participation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single cup beverage brewing machines require manual participation for capsule handling and operation, limiting their automation potential for use in vending machines.
Innovation Solution
An automated brewing mechanism that pierces and seals the top of a beverage capsule using springs and a piercing probe, introduces air to maintain structural integrity, and automatically vents and removes the brewed beverage through a lower probe, allowing for fully automated brewing and dispensing without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual manipulation of lid and capsule is used, then ease of operation is improved, but extent of automation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule holder automatically presents the capsule to the brewing mechanism and returns it to the loading position after brewing, eliminating the need for manual capsule handling. The system serves itself by automatically cycling the capsule through the brewing process without user intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical manipulation of the lid and capsule is replaced with an automated mechanical system including a motor-driven capsule holder, spring-loaded piercing mechanism, and automated lid operation that performs all capsule handling functions automatically.
2Extent of automation
If automated brewing mechanism is implemented, then extent of automation is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into integrated components: the capsule holder serves as both a storage mechanism and a positioning device, the lid incorporates both sealing and piercing functions, and the spring mechanism provides both piercing force and capsule ejection functionality, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lid structure serves multiple purposes: it seals the brewing chamber, provides a mounting surface for the piercing mechanism, and acts as a pressure seal during brewing. The capsule holder both presents capsules for brewing and ejects spent capsules, eliminating the need for separate mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If spring-loaded piercing mechanism is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is extracted as a separate, pre-assembled unit that can be independently manufactured and calibrated for precise piercing force. This modular approach allows the spring mechanism to be replaced or adjusted without affecting other parts of the brewing system.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-compressed to store the exact amount of force needed for piercing the capsule seal. This preliminary action ensures consistent piercing depth and force for every brewing cycle, eliminating the need for complex real-time force control mechanisms.
4Productivity
If automated capsule presentation is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule holder is designed to present the capsule at the exact position and orientation needed for brewing, eliminating the need for complex positioning adjustments during the brewing process. The mechanism operates from a single optimal position, simplifying the overall system.
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
Enables the production of a single cup of coffee or other beverages with minimal user interaction, automating the brewing and dispensing process within a vending machine, reducing manual handling and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a spring or springs, and movably supporting a housing with a bottom surface
Implementation Method 2
a pump in communication with the water reservoir and in communication with the brewing chamber
Implementation Method 3
introducing pressurized air into the capsule to maintain its structural integrity
Implementation Method 4
a heating element, a water reservoir, and a pump
Data Source
AI summary
A single cup capsule brewing machine which incorporates a device for automatically brewing and dispensing single cups of coffee, or other beverages, the device containing a receptacle for receiving a single serve capsule, a housing for raising or lowering onto the capsule, and process the capsule during various sequences of operation of the brewing machine, an upper housing raising or lowering onto the capsule to attain sequential piercing of the capsule through an inlet probe and then an outlet probe, and for preparing a hot beverage for individual consumption, and then a lower housing that moves along an arc to provide for alignment of the capsule for a brewing cycle, or for shifting forwardly for interconnection of a capsule in preparation of a brewing cycle, or for shifting the capsule rearwardly for its disposal after performance of a brewing cycle.