Beverage Machine Jet-Based Fill Level Detection to Prevent Overfilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for monitoring liquid dispensing in beverage vending machines lack reliable detection of fill levels, leading to potential overfilling and overflow issues.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize image analysis to determine the end position of a liquid jet dispensed into a vessel, calculating the fill level based on the jet's length and nozzle position, using image recording devices and evaluation algorithms to prevent overfilling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If image analysis is used to detect fill level, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential information needed for fill level detection by analyzing the jet trajectory and impact point in images, rather than processing the entire image. This selective extraction of relevant data reduces computational complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical level sensors with optical image analysis. By using cameras and image processing algorithms to detect the jet's impact point on the liquid surface, the system achieves precise fill level measurement without mechanical contact, simplifying the overall device structure.
2Measurement precision
If the vessel shape and position are considered in detection, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from analyzing two-dimensional image coordinates to three-dimensional spatial coordinates by incorporating the jet trajectory. By tracking the jet's path from the nozzle through space to the impact point, the system compensates for vessel position variations and shape differences, achieving accurate fill level detection across different vessel configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal detection method that works with various vessel shapes and positions. The jet trajectory analysis approach is adaptable to different container geometries and placements, making the system universally applicable without requiring vessel-specific calibration or complex position-dependent algorithms.
3Device complexity
If simple image processing is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by capturing multiple images of the jet trajectory before final fill level determination. By acquiring a sequence of images showing the jet's path and impact point, the system gathers sufficient data to accurately calculate fill level while using relatively simple image processing algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the jet trajectory as an intermediary element that connects the nozzle position to the liquid surface. By analyzing where the jet intersects with the liquid surface rather than directly measuring the surface level, the system achieves precise fill level detection using simple image processing of the jet's visible path.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method (500) for monitoring the dispensing of a liquid as a jet (225) via a nozzle (110) of an outlet of a beverage vending machine (100) into a container (112). For this purpose, an image depicting the jet (225) is captured. A position of an end of the jet (225) facing away from the nozzle (110) is determined using the image, and a fill level of the liquid in the container (112) is determined using the end position of the jet (225).