Device for producing a beverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage production devices using cartridges are cumbersome for users due to complex loading and discharging processes, lacking in vertical comfort and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A device with a cartridge holder featuring two movable holding elements that securely fix the cartridge in the correct orientation, allowing for easy insertion and maintenance, with a hand lever mechanism for efficient transfer between loading and working positions, ensuring stability and ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single holding element is used to support the cartridge, then the device structure is simple, but the cartridge cannot be securely fixed in the correct orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The holding element is divided into two separate components: a first holding element that supports the cartridge from below and a second holding element that engages with the cartridge neck. This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function, providing secure fixation while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The second holding element is positioned within or alongside the first holding element, with the cartridge neck engaging between them. This nested arrangement allows both holding elements to cooperate in a compact configuration, securing the cartridge reliably without adding excessive structural complexity
2Productivity
If manual insertion of the cartridge is required, then the device structure is simple, but the loading process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The first holding element is made movable relative to the second holding element, allowing dynamic adjustment during the loading process. The holding elements can move apart to receive the cartridge and then move together to secure it, enabling quick and easy loading while maintaining firm fixation
Solution Approach 2:
The movable first holding element acts as an intermediary mechanism between the user's loading action and the final secured position of the cartridge. It facilitates the transition from loading to working position, reducing the effort and time required for cartridge insertion
3Loss of time
If the holding elements are positioned far apart, then the cartridge can be easily inserted, but the transfer time between positions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first holding element is designed to move dynamically between a loaded position (spaced from the second holding element for easy insertion) and a working position (close to the second holding element for secure fixation). This dynamic movement minimizes the distance traveled during position transfer, reducing preparation time while maintaining ease of insertion
Data Source
Figure 1~2d
Figure 3a~3d
Figure 4a~4d
AI summary
Proposed is a device for producing a beverage, more particularly a cold beverage, comprising a cartridge mount having a cartridge holder for holding a cartridge filled with a beverage substance, wherein: the cartridge holder has a receiving opening; the cartridge holder has a water supply for introducing water into the cartridge and a compressed air supply for introducing compressed air into the cartridge; the cartridge holder can be transferred between a loading position, in which the cartridge can be inserted into or removed from the receiving opening, and an operating position, in which a beverage can be produced in the cartridge and dispensed from a beverage outlet of the cartridge by the introduction of the water and the compressed air into the cartridge and by the interaction of the water with the beverage substance; the cartridge holder has a first holding element and a second holding element between which the receiving opening is formed; the first holding element is moveable in relation to the second holding element in order to transfer the cartridge holder from the loading position to the operating position or from the operating position to the loading position.