Beverage Machine Capsule Recognition Using Color Distance Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current beverage preparation machines lack reliable automatic identification of capsules, which hampers efficient and accurate dispensing of beverages.
Innovation Solution
The machine incorporates a color recognition module with a color sensor that computes color distance and chromaticity distance to identify capsule types by comparing sample colors to reference colors, ensuring robust recognition across a wide spectrum of colors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a color sensor is used to recognize capsule types, then capsule identification reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual capsule identification with an automated optical sensing system. A color sensor detects the color of the capsule, and a control unit processes this information to automatically identify the capsule type and adjust brewing parameters, eliminating the need for manual intervention and improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a color sensor as an intermediary device between the capsule and the control system. The sensor acts as a mediator that converts optical information from the capsule into electrical signals that the control unit can process, enabling automatic capsule recognition without direct mechanical interaction.
2Manufacturing precision
If automatic capsule recognition is implemented, then beverage preparation accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the brewing system based on the detected capsule color. The control unit stores multiple sets of brewing parameters (temperature, pressure, time) corresponding to different capsule types, and automatically selects the appropriate parameters based on the color sensor detection, ensuring accurate beverage preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital representation of the capsule's physical property (color) through the color sensor. This optical copy of the capsule's color information is processed by the control unit to determine capsule type, replacing the need for physical inspection or complex mechanical identification systems.
3Reliability
If color distance and chromaticity distance calculations are used, then color recognition robustness is improved, but computational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the color comparison from a single-dimensional match to a multi-dimensional analysis by calculating both color distance and chromaticity distance. This two-dimensional approach in color space provides more robust recognition by considering both the magnitude and hue differences between the detected capsule color and reference colors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit compares the detected capsule color against stored reference colors using calculated distance metrics. The system uses this feedback information to determine the best match and automatically adjusts brewing parameters accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system for capsule identification.
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
This solution enables reliable and robust capsule recognition, allowing for precise adaptation of beverage preparation parameters and improved dispensing accuracy, enhancing user experience and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a colour recognition module for recognising a colour of a capsule inserted in the machine, the colour recognition module comprising a colour sensor for sensing a sample colour of at least part of the surface of such capsule
Data Source
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AI summary
A machine (1) for preparing and dispensing a beverage (2) has: a capsule extraction unit (10) having a first part (11) and a second part (12) that are relatively movable between a distant position for inserting a capsule (3) and a close position for extracting such capsule (3); a control unit (40) for controlling the extraction unit (10) to extract such capsule (3); an outlet (20) for dispensing said beverage (2) formed by extracting such capsule (3) to a user- receptacle (4) located in a receptacle placing area; and a capsule recognition arrangement (30) connected to the control unit (40) for recognizing the colour of at least part of a capsule inserted in the machine (1).