Beverage Machine Outlet Distance Adjustment Using Guide Link Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation devices with adjustable outlets face challenges in setting specific distances due to complexity, high cost, and lack of robustness, making precise and repeated adjustments difficult.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of guide link paths with gripper means and spring-loaded coupling mechanisms that define multiple holding positions for outlets, allowing for precise adjustment of distances between outlets, ensuring secure positioning and preventing unintentional changes due to vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If outlets are adjusted using continuous rotation or bending mechanisms, then distance adjustment flexibility is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet device allows dynamic adjustment of the distance between outlets through movable outlet tubes that can be positioned at different locations along guide paths. The outlets can be moved from an initial position to a final position, providing adaptability while maintaining a relatively simple structural design through the use of guide links and coupling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment mechanism is segmented into discrete components: outlet tubes, guide links, coupling mechanisms, and holding positions. This segmentation allows for independent adjustment of each outlet while maintaining overall system simplicity, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If outlets are adjusted using continuous rotation mechanisms, then distance adjustment range is improved, but reliability and robustness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic adjustability within a defined range through movable outlet tubes guided by guide links. The outlets can be repositioned along predetermined paths without requiring continuous rotation mechanisms, thereby maintaining reliability while achieving adjustment flexibility within practical limits.
Solution Approach 2:
Guide links and coupling mechanisms act as intermediaries between the movable outlet tubes and the fixed mounting structure. These intermediary components transmit motion and force reliably, ensuring robust operation while enabling the desired adjustment range.
3Device complexity
If outlets are rigidly coupled via common guide link, then structural simplicity is improved, but adjustment precision and positioning accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into discrete guide links that can be independently positioned at specific holding locations. This segmentation allows for precise positioning of outlets at defined distances while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide links and coupling mechanisms enable dynamic repositioning of outlets between defined holding positions. This dynamic capability allows for precise adjustment to specific distances while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of predetermined guide paths and discrete positioning points.
4Reliability
If spring force is applied to hold gripper means in position, then positioning stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Spring means are used to apply a counteracting force that holds the guide links and coupling mechanisms in their desired positions. The spring force compensates for gravitational and operational forces, ensuring stable positioning without requiring complex locking or actuating mechanisms, thereby resolving the contradiction between positioning stability and device complexity.
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 easy, cost-effective, and robust adjustment of outlet distances with precise control over specific positions, preventing unintentional movement and ensuring consistent alignment of outlet ends, whether vertical or parallel.
Implementation Method 1
spring means, preferably supporting on the first outlet, are assigned, which apply a spring force to the first pick-up means in the respective first holding position
Data Source
Figure 1a~1d
Figure 2a~2d
Figure 3a~3d
AI summary
The invention relates to a beverage preparation device (1), in particular a coffee machine, comprising a first outlet (4) and a second outlet (5) which are connected, preferably, to a common supply line (10), also comprising adjusting means for adjusting the distance between the first (4) and the second outlet (5).