Beverage Maker Flow Sensing for Cartridge Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage makers require specific codes on cartridges and additional components like barcode readers to recognize and process different beverage ingredients, increasing costs and limiting versatility.
Innovation Solution
A method that measures fluid flow characteristics influenced by the beverage ingredient's resistance, comparing them to predetermined values to determine optimal processing parameters without the need for codes or additional readers, using existing flow and pressure sensors in the beverage maker.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a code reader component is added to the beverage maker to automatically recognize beverage cartridges, then the beverage maker can automatically select proper parameters, but the cost price of the system is raised
Solution Approach 1:
The beverage cartridge itself performs the recognition function by incorporating a flow resistance element with characteristics that uniquely identify the cartridge type. The system uses the cartridge's own physical property (flow resistance) as its identification code, eliminating the need for external readers and codes.
Solution Approach 2:
The recognition function is extracted from a separate code reader component and integrated into the beverage cartridge itself through the flow resistance element. This transfers the identification capability from the machine to the consumable item.
2Extent of automation
If a code reader is used to read cartridge information, then automatic brewing cycle selection is achieved, but the system requires specific components that increase cost
Solution Approach 1:
The flow resistance element combines the flow control function with the identification function into a single component. The existing flow path and pressure system are merged with the recognition mechanism, eliminating separate readers and codes.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical or electromagnetic code reading system is replaced with a mechanical/physical measurement system that detects flow resistance characteristics. This uses the existing hydraulic system to perform recognition instead of adding external sensing components.
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
Enables automatic recognition and optimal processing of various beverage ingredients without additional components, ensuring consistent beverage quality without the need for specific codes or readers, reducing costs and enhancing versatility.
Implementation Method 1
measuring at least one characteristic of the obtained flow which is influenced by a flow resistance of the beverage ingredient containing member
Data Source
AI summary
A beverage maker (1) comprises a chamber (8) for receiving at least one member containing at least one beverage ingredient. During operation of the beverage maker (1), fluid is conducted through the member for the purpose of making a beverage. In order to be capable of determining suitable parameters for processing the member, the beverage maker comprises means (12) for detecting at least one characteristic of a flow which is obtained when a flow of fluid is realized. Furthermore, the beverage maker (1) comprises controller means (10) for processing the detected characteristic, and memory means (11) in which predetermined values of the characteristic are stored, wherein each predetermined value is associated with a specific type of member and at least one suitable parameter for processing the member. By finding the predetermined characteristic which is closest to the detected characteristic, a suitable parameter for processing the member which is actually present in the beverage maker (1) is selected.