Beverage preparation machine with capsule recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current beverage preparation machines face challenges in reliably identifying and handling capsules automatically, leading to inefficiencies in beverage dispensing.
Innovation Solution
The machine incorporates a capsule recognition module with a camera and LED light source, utilizing a diffuser to prevent direct reflections and improve lighting, coupled with a control unit that manages the extraction process based on capsule type recognition, ensuring accurate extraction and preparation parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera and LED light source are used for capsule recognition, then capsule identification capability is improved, but light reflections from the capsule surface cause recognition errors
Solution Approach 1:
A diffuser is introduced as an intermediary element between the LED light source and the capsule. The diffuser scatters the direct light into diffuse illumination, preventing direct reflections from reaching the camera sensor while still providing sufficient lighting for capsule recognition. This mediator resolves the contradiction by transforming the harmful direct light into useful diffuse light.
2Extent of automation
If automatic capsule recognition is implemented, then beverage preparation automation is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical assembly serving capsule recognition is integrated with the existing camera system used for beverage preparation monitoring and control. By making the optical system multi-functional, the patent achieves automatic capsule recognition without adding completely separate complex subsystems, thus reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation.
3Illumination intensity
If direct LED lighting is used for capsule illumination, then lighting intensity is improved, but direct reflections interfere with image capture
Solution Approach 1:
The diffuser acts as a mediator that transforms direct LED light into diffuse illumination. It maintains sufficient lighting intensity for capsule recognition while eliminating direct reflections that would interfere with image capture. The diffuser redistributes the light energy to provide uniform illumination without concentrated reflection paths.
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 capsule recognition and beverage preparation by avoiding light reflections and ensuring precise extraction parameters, resulting in improved machine efficiency and user experience.
Implementation Method 1
a diffusor for diffusing the light of the at least one source of light towards the capsule recognition position
Data Source
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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.