Beverage Capsule Closure for Controlled Pressurized Opening
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capsule opening mechanisms for pressurized fluid extraction, such as in espresso coffee machines, lack control over the opening conditions, moment, and flow passage configuration, affecting beverage quality.
Innovation Solution
A capsule design featuring a closing element retained by a removable union, allowing precise control over the opening moment and flow passage configuration through the application of an actuation force, which can be mechanical or hydraulic, and utilizing friction or positive locking mechanisms for airtight sealing without thin metallic films.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rupture mechanism is used for capsule opening, then the capsule can be opened by hydraulic pressure, but the control over opening moment and passage configuration is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The closing element is designed to be movable rather than fixed, transitioning from a closed position blocking the passage to an open position allowing fluid flow. This dynamic mechanism enables controlled opening at the desired moment while maintaining simplicity in construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The closing element is removed or actuated by the pressurized fluid itself, which automatically opens the capsule passage without requiring external complex mechanisms. The fluid pressure serves both as the opening force and the processing medium.
2Reliability
If thin metallic films are used for sealing, then airtight sealing is achieved, but the construction complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex thin metallic film sealing layer is removed and replaced with a simpler sealing approach using the capsule wall itself and the closing element geometry. The sealing function is achieved through the removable union structure and friction/positive locking mechanisms without requiring additional metallic films.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing structure uses homogeneous materials (capsule wall material matching the closing element) rather than composite structures with thin metallic films. This simplifies the construction while maintaining airtight sealing through proper geometric design and retention mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If a removable union with friction or positive locking is used, then controlled opening is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Complex mechanical retention systems are replaced with simpler friction-based or positive locking mechanisms integrated into the removable union. These mechanisms provide sufficient holding force during storage and transport while allowing easy removal when actuated by fluid pressure or manual force.
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
This design provides reliable and controlled opening of the capsule, ensuring consistent beverage quality by precisely managing the flow passage and reducing pressure loss, while being cost-effective and simple in construction.
Implementation Method 1
retained by means of at least one removable union... utilizing friction or positive locking mechanisms for airtight sealing
Implementation Method 2
crossing by a pressurized fluid flowing across it... allowing the entry of the pressurized flow
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c~3a
AI summary
The present invention refers to a capsule containing at least one aromatic substance, for production of a beverage by means of its crossing by a pressurized fluid flow and comprising at least one closing element retained in a removable union with at least one of the construction elements of the capsule. Said closing element may be reliably removed from its initial retention by means of applying at least one given actuaction force exerted by means of a respective device used for extraction of a beverage from the capsule.