A system for preparing a liquid beverage from a capsule, a capsule configured to be used in a system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation systems, such as Dolce Gusto machines, are limited to using specifically configured capsules, restricting the variety of capsules that can be used without compromising device operation.
Innovation Solution
The system allows for the use of alternative capsules with a horizontal inlet surface, no contact with the injection needle, and optional manual opening mechanisms, enabling the use of diverse capsules without the need for internal puncturing or pressure retention, thus accommodating various capsule designs and reducing manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the system uses a fixed capsule holder with a specific inlet surface configuration, then the device can maintain reliable operation with standardized capsules, but the variety of capsules that can be used is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule holder is designed with a movable inlet surface that can be dynamically adjusted between different positions. This dynamic configuration allows the holder to adapt to various capsule types while maintaining reliable operation with standardized capsules through its adjustable geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The inlet surface geometry and position are made variable rather than fixed. By changing the positional parameters of the inlet surface, the system can accommodate different capsule designs while preserving compatibility with standardized capsules through controlled parameter adjustment
2Ease of manufacture
If the capsule inlet surface is designed to contact the injection needle, then precise fluid injection can be achieved, but the capsule requires complex internal puncturing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The injection function is extracted from the capsule and transferred to the capsule holder. The holder's movable inlet surface performs the injection action, eliminating the need for complex internal puncturing mechanisms within the capsule itself
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule holder acts as an intermediary between the injection needle and the capsule inlet surface. This mediator transfers the injection function from the needle to the holder, simplifying capsule design by removing the need for internal puncturing structures
3Reliability
If the capsule inlet surface is made flexible to seal during handling, then hermetic sealing can be achieved, but the membrane requires complex dual-function design for sealing and puncturing
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is extracted from the inlet surface membrane and transferred to the capsule holder. The holder provides the hermetic sealing through its structure, eliminating the need for the membrane to have complex dual-function capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule with its simple inlet surface can be used as a disposable component. The reusable capsule holder provides the complex sealing and injection functions, allowing the disposable capsule to have a simpler, cheaper structure without sacrificing hermetic sealing reliability
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 use of a wide range of capsules in existing systems, ensuring proper functioning without the need for specific configurations, and allows for cost-effective manufacturing by eliminating the requirement for internal pressure retention and self-opening mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
a feeding unit for feeding injection fluid into the capsule, wherein said liquid is provided by a pump of the device
Implementation Method 2
said liquid is provided by a pump of the device
Implementation Method 3
a heating unit for heating the liquid in the cup
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~9
AI summary
A system for preparing a liquid beverage from a capsule comprises a capsule holder and a capsule comprising an inlet surface for receiving injection liquid from a feeding unit. The feeding unit comprises insertion means which permits the insertion of the capsule holder from a detached position into an injection position, said insertion means comprises wedge-shaped grooves. Said feeding unit further comprises an injection needle which is able to move relative to the capsule holder from a rest position to an operating position. The capsule holder comprises complementary wedge-shaped insertion means. Said capsule is configured to position its inlet surface when it is housed in the capsule holder in the operating position in a horizontal position or at a position in which the inlet surface is free from contact with the injection needle.