Beverage Capsule Code Reading Using Colour Model Orientation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation systems face challenges in accurately reading codes on capsules due to the need for precise location and orientation, which can be cumbersome and less efficient compared to prior art methods.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a machine-readable code that extends along an encoding line with discrete positions, using electrical circuitry to determine the orientation by summing colour model values, allowing for precise location of the encoding line without requiring separate units or reference portions, and utilizes Golay encoding for efficient data retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a code is placed on the capsule periphery or centre with reference units, then the code can be read, but the system requires precise location and complex center point calculations to determine orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the orientation determination function from complex center point calculations and reference unit analysis, replacing it with a simplified summation of colour model values along the encoding line. This removes the need for separate reference units and centre point computations while maintaining accurate code reading capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/geometric approach of determining code orientation through reference units and center points with an optical/electronic approach using colour model value summation. This substitution simplifies the processing by using pixel color data instead of geometric calculations.
2Measurement precision
If separate reference units are used to determine code orientation, then the code can be located, but additional processing steps and units are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the orientation determination function into the encoding line itself by using the colour model values of the encoding line pixels. This eliminates separate reference units and combines location and orientation information into a single integrated approach, improving processing efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoding line serves multiple functions: it encodes preparation information and simultaneously provides orientation determination through its colour model values. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate reference units and improves overall system efficiency.
3Measurement precision
If the code requires specific reference units at centre and outer periphery, then orientation can be identified, but the system becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by using the encoding line's colour model values directly for orientation determination. The encoding line is designed to inherently provide orientation information through its colour distribution, eliminating the need for subsequent reference unit analysis and center point calculations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the orientation information directly from the encoding line's colour model values, removing the need for separate reference units at the centre and outer periphery. This extraction approach reduces processing steps and time while maintaining accurate orientation identification.
Data Source
AI summary
A system comprising a container for containing precursor material and a machine for preparing a beverage and/or foodstuff or a precursor thereof from said precursor material, the container including: a machine-readable code storing preparation information, wherein the code extends along a encoding line, and comprises a series of discrete positions that either comprise or do not comprise a unit to at least partially encode the preparation information, the machine including: a code reading system to obtain a digital image of the code and to fit a colour model to the digital image; a processing unit for processing the precursor material of the container, and; electrical circuitry to control the processing unit based on the preparation information read from the code and the code reading system, wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to: sum values of the colour model along the encoding line, including for the units of the code and the encoding line; determine an orientation of the code based on said sum, and; read the discrete positions based on the determined orientation of the code in said image.