Beverage preparation machine with capsule recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines face challenges in reliably identifying and automatically handling capsules, which affects the precise dispensing of beverages.
Innovation Solution
A beverage preparation machine equipped with a capsule recognition module that uses a light source and optical sensor to determine the type of capsule by calculating corrected sample values, allowing for accurate adaptation of brewing parameters and efficient extraction processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a capsule recognition module with light source and optical sensor is added to the beverage preparation machine, then the measurement precision of capsule identification is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual capsule identification and parameter adjustment with an automated optical recognition system. The light source illuminates the capsule while the optical sensor captures its characteristics, enabling automatic capsule type identification and brewing parameter selection, thus substituting mechanical/manual operations with optical/electronic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary between the optical sensor and the brewing system. The control unit processes the optical sensor signals to identify capsule characteristics and automatically adjusts brewing parameters, serving as a mediator that translates optical detection into actionable brewing control without requiring direct mechanical interaction.
2Productivity
If automatic capsule recognition is implemented, then the productivity of beverage preparation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the machine to automatically identify capsule type and adjust brewing parameters without user intervention. The optical sensor and control unit work together to self-determine the appropriate brewing settings based on detected capsule characteristics, allowing the system to serve itself in the identification and parameter selection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback loop where the optical sensor continuously monitors capsule characteristics and the control unit adjusts brewing parameters accordingly. The system uses the optical detection feedback to automatically modify brewing conditions, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to different capsule types in real-time.
3Measurement precision
If the optical sensor senses capsule surface properties under light source, then the measurement precision of capsule characteristics is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic illumination rather than continuous lighting. The light source is activated in periodic cycles during the capsule recognition process, allowing the optical sensor to capture necessary surface properties only when needed. This periodic operation reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining sufficient measurement precision for capsule identification.
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 precise recognition and handling of capsules, ensuring consistent and reliable beverage preparation, improving the overall efficiency and accuracy of the machine's operation.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor (81) for sensing an optical property of at least part of the surface of the capsule (3)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Machine (1) for preparing and dispensing a beverage (2), such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cold chocolate, milk, soup or baby food, wherein the machine comprises a capsule recognition module (8) for recognizing a type of a capsule (3) inserted in the machine (1), the capsule recognition module (8) comprising a light source (82) for lighting at least part of the surface of the capsule (3) and an optical sensor (81) for sensing an optical property of the at least part of the surface of the capsule (3); and wherein the capsule recognition module (8) is configured to: determine a correction value of the optical property by sensing the optical property of the at least part of the surface of the capsule (3) while said light source (82) is switched off; determine at least one sample value of the optical property by sensing the optical property of the at least part of the surface of the capsule (3) while the light source (82) is switched on; calculate a corrected sample value with the correction value and the at least one sample value; determine a type of the capsule by comparing the corrected sample value with at least one reference value, the at least one reference value being representative of a type of capsule.