Beverage Machine Delivery Head Layout for Clean Barcode Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
The combination of an ejection mechanism and barcode reader in beverage preparation machines can lead to cleanliness issues and inconsistent operation due to soiling of the barcode reader.
Innovation Solution
A delivery head design with a barcode reader window positioned to the front and an ejection chute to the rear, where the inlet, outlet, and barcode reader are aligned in a straight line, preventing the open inlet and outlet of the cartridge from passing over or near the barcode reader during ejection, thus maintaining cleanliness and consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If an ejection mechanism and barcode reader are combined in the delivery head, then the machine can automatically eject cartridges and read barcodes for identification, but the barcode reader window becomes prone to soiling from the open inlet and outlet during ejection, leading to inconsistent operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the barcode reader window, inlet, and outlet in a linear arrangement along the longitudinal axis of the delivery head. This spatial configuration ensures that during cartridge ejection, the open inlet and outlet remain aligned with the longitudinal axis while the barcode reader window is positioned such that the cartridge components do not pass over or near it, preventing soiling while maintaining automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a localized clean zone around the barcode reader window by strategically positioning it relative to the inlet and outlet. The linear arrangement ensures that only specific areas (the inlet and outlet) are exposed to potential contamination during ejection, while the barcode reader window remains in a protected position that does not intersect with the ejection path of cartridge components
2Ease of operation
If the inlet and outlet are positioned to allow free ejection of cartridges, then the ejection mechanism functions properly, but the open inlet and outlet pass over or near the barcode reader window during ejection, causing soiling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the conflict between ejection functionality and barcode reader cleanliness by arranging the inlet, outlet, and barcode reader window in a linear configuration along the longitudinal axis. This positioning ensures that during ejection, the cartridge components move along the axis without intersecting the barcode reader window's location, preventing soiling while maintaining proper ejection function
Solution Approach 2:
The linear arrangement of components creates a spatial intermediary zone where the barcode reader window is positioned between the inlet and outlet along the longitudinal axis. This configuration acts as a mediator that separates the ejection path from the barcode reading area, allowing both functions to coexist without interference or contamination
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a delivery head for a beverage preparation machine comprising: an upwardly directed inlet for supplying water to a cartridge received in the delivery head; a downwardly directed outlet for outflow of beverage; a barcode reader having a barcode reader window through which signals may be transmitted; wherein the inlet, the outlet and the barcode reader window are arranged in a line with the outlet being intermediate the inlet and the barcode reader window.