Capsule, system and method for preparing a beverage by centrifugation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing beverage preparation machines face challenges in reliably and conveniently identifying capsules, particularly when using centrifugal forces for extraction, as existing systems are not adapted for reading codes under these conditions.

Innovation Solution

A capsule design with a code arranged along an arc-shaped or circular path on its circumference, which is repeated for reliability and readability, combined with a beverage preparation device equipped with rotational means and optical or inductive reading systems to detect the code during rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a code is placed on the capsule for identification, then the beverage preparation can be controlled according to capsule type, but the code reading becomes unreliable when the capsule rotates during centrifugal extraction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecode reading reliabilityVSAvoidcode detection convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The code is arranged in a circular pattern around the rim of the capsule rather than on flat surfaces. This circular arrangement ensures that at least a portion of the code is always visible and readable by the sensor during rotation, regardless of the capsule's rotational position or speed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The code reading system is designed to read the code during the capsule's rotation rather than requiring the capsule to be stationary. The sensor is positioned to detect the circular code pattern as the capsule spins, making the reading process dynamic and compatible with the centrifugal extraction operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the code is read during capsule rotation, then the system is adapted for centrifugal extraction, but the code may be partially hidden by residues or positioned away from the reading head

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem adaptation for centrifugal forcesVSAvoidcode detection consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The code is specifically positioned on the rim or flange of the capsule, which are locations less likely to be contaminated by beverage residues compared to the top surface. The rim location also ensures the code remains accessible to the reading head during rotation even when the capsule is filled with ingredients.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The circular arrangement of the code around the rim ensures that rotation brings different portions of the code into the reading position, providing multiple opportunities for successful code detection during each rotation cycle, thereby improving reliability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Measurement precision

If existing magnetic or barcode reading systems are used, then capsule identification is possible, but these systems are not adapted for reading codes during rotation under centrifugal forces

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecode reading accuracyVSAvoidreading system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical reading systems (such as magnetic reading heads requiring precise positioning or barcode scanners requiring stationary targets) with a simpler optical or inductive sensor that can detect the circular code pattern during rotation. The circular code design inherently compensates for rotational movement, eliminating the need for complex tracking mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical 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

Ensures reliable and efficient retrieval of information from the capsule, reducing preparation time and simplifying the beverage preparation process by ensuring consistent code detection even when partially hidden by residues.

Implementation Method 1

rotating the receptacle at elevated speed to ensure interaction of liquid with powder while creating a gradient of pressure of liquid in the receptacle; such pressure increasing gradually from the centre towards the periphery of the receptacle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Implementation Method 2

optical or inductive reading systems to detect the code during rotation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical detection:

Implementation Method 3

optical or inductive reading systems to detect the code during rotation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInductive detection: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11192711B2Capsule, system and method for preparing a beverage by centrifugation

Publication Date: 2021.12.07 SOCIETE DES PRODUITS NESTLE SA

AI summary

A capsule for preparation of a beverage includes a container and a beverage ingredient contained therein. The container includes a code adapted for being identified or read by external reading means, and the code is arranged on the container to be read while the capsule is rotated around an axis of rotation traversing the capsule.