Control module for a device for preparing foodstuffs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation devices are overwhelmed users with a large number of selection options, making operation complex and unintuitive.
Innovation Solution
A device with a 3-axis digital compass integrated into the food preparation container, allowing operation by rotary movement, which is detected using earth's magnetic field and transmitted to electronics, combined with a barometric altimeter and acceleration sensor for precise control, eliminating the need for selection buttons and providing multiple function levels through LED displays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If selection buttons and multiple control options are provided, then the range of functions is expanded, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical buttons and switches with a magnetic field-based detection system. A magnet is embedded in the container base, and a magnetic sensor on the heating plate detects the magnet's position and orientation to determine container placement and select preparation programs automatically, eliminating the need for multiple physical control buttons.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic program selection based on the container's magnetic signature and placement position. The magnetic sensor automatically detects the magnet's characteristics and determines the appropriate preparation program without requiring user input through buttons or switches, making the device self-configuring.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple selection buttons and control options are provided, then the range of functions is expanded, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical buttons and switches with a magnetic field-based detection system. A magnet is embedded in the container base, and a magnetic sensor on the heating plate detects the magnet's position and orientation to determine container placement and select preparation programs automatically, eliminating the need for multiple physical control buttons.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic program selection based on the container's magnetic signature and placement position. The magnetic sensor automatically detects the magnet's characteristics and determines the appropriate preparation program without requiring user input through buttons or switches, making the device self-configuring.
3Ease of operation
If the container is made wireless by using a base station, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the base station: electrical power supply, magnetic field generation for detection, magnetic sensor for position detection, and control electronics. This integration allows the container to be wireless while maintaining all necessary control and detection capabilities through the base station infrastructure.
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
Simplifies operation by eliminating buttons while maintaining a range of functions, allowing users to select programs like milk frothing or temperature settings through intuitive container rotation, enhancing user experience with clear visual feedback.
Implementation Method 1
By using a 3-axis digital compass, it is possible to see the direction in which the container is being rotated based on the existing earth's magnetic field. The direction sensor uses the earth's magnetic field to precisely determine the direction of movement.
Implementation Method 2
According to the invention, such a sensor consists of two coils in which the earth's magnetic field generates small voltages. Depending on the movement, the tensions that occur vary in magnitude.
Implementation Method 3
In combination with a baromatic altimeter, the determination of the location is even more accurate. It is thus also possible to determine spatially the position in which the digital compass located in the container is located.
Implementation Method 4
Additional data can be collected by combining it with an acceleration sensor. The acceleration data is also transmitted to the microcontroller, creating another variant of the choice for the user.
Implementation Method 5
The food liquid should be heated by means of induction heating or a printed thick-film heater.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for preparing or heating a liquid foodstuff, consisting of two components, specifically a foodstuff preparation container and a base station, characterised in that the drink preparation container can be rotated on the base station and comprises a triple axis digital compass which identifies the angle of rotation and/or the speed of rotation of said foodstuff preparation container, and transmits the data to the device electronic unit.