Beverage Dispensing Module with Deflector Wall to Reduce Jet Soiling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines often result in beverages with inconsistent foam and risk of soiling and malfunction due to direct jets of beverage entering internal machine parts, disrupting the flow and foam formation.
Innovation Solution
A collector module with a fluid receiving plate, deflector wall, and outlet conduit design that guides the beverage flow gradually, preventing direct jets from entering the outlet conduit and ensuring a consistent flow and reduced risk of soiling, featuring a deflector wall positioned perpendicular to the fluid receiving plate and an outlet conduit with slanted gutter segments to manage the flow effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a direct fluid path is provided from the fluid receiving plate to the outlet conduit, then beverage extraction efficiency is improved, but beverage consistency and foam quality deteriorate due to direct jet impingement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary structure (the curved surface and deflector wall) between the fluid receiving plate and the outlet conduit. This intermediary redirects the beverage flow from a direct jet path to a gradual flow path along the curved surface, preventing direct impingement while maintaining efficient extraction. The intermediary element transforms the harmful direct jet into a beneficial controlled flow that preserves foam quality.
2Productivity
If openings are provided in the fluid receiving plate for beverage reception, then beverage flow rate is improved, but soiling and malfunction risk increases due to direct jets entering machine parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful direct jet of beverage into a beneficial controlled flow by utilizing the curved surface and deflector wall. The same high-velocity flow that causes soiling is redirected to travel along the curved surface and exit gradually through the outlet conduit. The harmful kinetic energy is transformed into a controlled flow pattern that prevents soiling while maintaining extraction efficiency.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a deflector wall is added to prevent direct jet impingement, then beverage consistency and foam quality are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into the outlet conduit structure itself. The curved surface, deflector wall, and outlet conduit are integrated into a single continuous structure rather than separate components. This merging reduces assembly complexity while maintaining the flow control functionality. The outlet conduit simultaneously serves as the beverage exit path and the flow redirection mechanism.
4Volume of moving object
If the outlet conduit is positioned directly below the fluid receiving plate, then device compactness is improved, but beverage flow control deteriorates due to direct jet entry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dimensional change in the flow path by utilizing the curved surface that extends in a direction away from the fluid receiving plate. Instead of a direct vertical path, the beverage flow is redirected along a curved trajectory in three-dimensional space. This dimensional change allows the outlet conduit to be positioned compactly while maintaining excellent flow control through the curved path geometry.
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
The solution provides a consistent beverage flow and reduced risk of soiling and malfunction by preventing direct jets from entering the outlet conduit, maintaining foam quality and ensuring smooth operation of the machine.
Implementation Method 1
a deflector wall provided between the fluid receiving plate and the collector outlet opening for screening off direct impingement of fluid from the fluid receiving plate into the outlet conduit
Implementation Method 2
an outlet conduit extending from the collector outlet opening, for receiving fluid via the collector outlet opening and for guiding, in use, fluid towards at least one dispensing nozzle
Implementation Method 3
a fluid receiving plate comprising a plurality of openings distributed over at least part of the plate, the openings being arranged for receiving the beverage
Data Source
AI summary
Dispensing module for a beverage preparation machine For providing a beverage with a proper consistency using a capsule- based brewing system wherein hot liquid is injected into the capsule under pressure, which capsule is placed against a brewing plate (210) with protrusion (212) arranged to cut the capsule cover under pressure, it has been found that a free flow of the prepared beverage can flow gradually from the brewing plate (210) towards an outlet nozzle (126). An open passage (206) from the brewing plate (210) via a collector chamber (204) downstream of the brewing plate, to the outlet nozzle (126) may be provided with an open and slanted gutter (222) to lead the beverage out of the collector chamber (204) to provide the best results. Due to the open nature of the conduit, jets of beverage form the brewing plate may the open gutter and soil the machine. This may be prevented by providing appropriate shielding (250) between the brewing plate and the gutter or an opening thereof.