Beverage Machine Capsule Recognition Using Diffused LED Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current beverage preparation machines face challenges in reliably identifying and handling capsules automatically, which affects the efficient preparation and dispensing of beverages.
Innovation Solution
The machine incorporates a capsule recognition module with a camera, LED light source, and diffuser for capturing images of capsules, utilizing a neural network to recognize capsule types and control the extraction process, ensuring accurate preparation parameters are applied.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a capsule recognition module with camera and LED light source is added to the beverage preparation machine, then the reliability of capsule identification is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A diffuser is introduced as an intermediary element between the LED light source and the capsule recognition position. The diffuser has a tapered cavity that opens toward the capsule recognition position, serving as a mediator to distribute light evenly and eliminate direct reflections while maintaining the functionality of the recognition system.
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful direct light and reflections are extracted or removed from the recognition path by using the diffuser's tapered cavity structure. This separates the direct light path from the capsule surface, preventing harmful reflections from reaching the camera while maintaining sufficient illumination.
2Illumination intensity
If direct light from LED source illuminates the capsule at recognition position, then illumination intensity is improved, but harmful reflections are generated that affect recognition accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser converts the harmful direct light and reflections into beneficial diffuse light. By using the tapered cavity structure with its reflective inner surface, the system transforms direct LED light into evenly distributed illumination that eliminates harmful reflections while maintaining sufficient brightness for accurate capsule recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
The diffuser acts as an intermediary that modifies the light characteristics between the LED source and the capsule. It redistributes the light rays to provide uniform illumination without creating direct reflections, thereby eliminating the harmful effect while preserving the beneficial illumination.
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 solution enhances the reliability of beverage preparation by accurately identifying capsule types and optimizing extraction parameters, leading to improved beverage quality and efficiency in capsule handling.
Implementation Method 1
at least one source of light, for example at least one LED
Implementation Method 2
the capsule recognition module comprises a diffusor for diffusing the light of the at least one source of light towards the capsule recognition position
Data Source
AI summary
Machine for preparing and dispensing a beverage, such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cold chocolate, milk, soup or baby food, comprising a capsule recognition module for recognizing a capsule inserted in said machine at a capsule recognition position, the capsule recognition module comprising a camera for capturing an image of at least part of said capsule in said capsule recognition position; wherein the capsule recognition module comprises a camera for capturing an image of at least part of a capsule in the capsule recognition position, at least one source of light, for example at least one LED, to light up the capsule at said capsule recognition position, wherein the capsule recognition module comprises a diffusor for diffusing the light of the at least one source of light towards the capsule recognition position.