Beverage or foodstuff preparation system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines struggle to read machine-readable codes on flexible materials like paper or wood pulp due to the codes being applied only to rigid supports, limiting material options and compromising code readability.
Innovation Solution
A system with a positioning mechanism that deforms the container to create a more uniform surface for code reading, using a code reader to accurately read codes from flexible materials by applying a deformation mechanism that increases tension and curvature on the closing member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a code is applied to a rigid support for reading, then code readability is improved, but material flexibility and variety are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a deformation mechanism that changes the physical state of the container from undeformed to deformed configuration, increasing tension and curvature on the closing member to create a uniform reading surface. This parameter change allows flexible materials to achieve the same code reading conditions as rigid supports.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism deforms the container body portion before code reading occurs, pre-tensing the closing member to ensure a uniform surface is presented to the code reader. This preliminary deformation action enables accurate code reading on flexible materials that would otherwise be unreadable.
2Measurement precision
If a positioning mechanism deforms the container to create a uniform surface, then code reading accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning mechanism serves multiple functions: it positions the container in the correct location, deforms the container body to tension the closing member, and presents the code at the optimal reading distance and angle. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms and simplifies the overall device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the code reading function with the container positioning and deformation functions into an integrated system. The positioning mechanism that locates the container also applies the necessary deformation, merging multiple operations into a single coordinated action that reduces device complexity.
3Measurement precision
If tension and curvature are increased on the closing member, then surface uniformity for code reading is improved, but risk of damaging the closing member increases
Solution Approach 1:
The deformation mechanism applies tension and curvature changes specifically to the closing member and its central region where the code is located, while the rest of the container maintains its structural integrity. This localized deformation achieves surface uniformity without subjecting the entire container to damaging stresses.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism applies just enough deformation to achieve a uniform reading surface on the closing member without over-tensing or damaging it. The deformation is controlled to be sufficient for code reading purposes but not excessive to the point of causing material failure.
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
Enhances code readability on flexible materials by ensuring a uniform surface, improving the accuracy of beverage preparation processes without damaging the closing member, and allowing for a wider range of material options.
Implementation Method 1
a positioning mechanism which is configured to deform a body portion of the container from an undeformed configuration to a deformed configuration, in which the code is readable by the code reader
Implementation Method 2
the positioning mechanism adapted to deform the body portion in the deformed configuration to effect subsequent deformation of the closing member so that it presents a comparatively more uniform surface for reading the code
Data Source
AI summary
A system (2) comprising a container (6) and a machine (4) for preparing a beverage and/or foodstuff thereof, the container (6) including: a body portion (62) comprising a storage portion (58) for containing a precursor material; a closing member (56) to close the storage portion (58), and; a machine-readable code (44) storing preparation information, the machine (4) including: a code reading system (18) to read the code (44) of the container (6); a processing unit (14) for processing the precursor material of the container (6), and: electrical circuitry (16) to control the processing unit (14) based on the preparation information read from the code (44), wherein the code reading system (18) includes a positioning mechanism (110) to apply a variable loading condition to the container (6), and the code reading system (18) includes a detection system (150) to detect a reading position if a predetermined condition for reading the code (44) is met, and if said condition is met, then the electrical circuitry (16) configured to process the code (44) to extract the preparation information in the reading position.