Beverage preparation device and operating method
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Solution Overview
Problem
Beverage preparation devices, such as coffee machines, face issues with cleanability and dirt accumulation in unused insertion openings for rest devices, which are not easily addressed by existing designs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of closing means, such as closing panels or elements, that can automatically cover unused insertion openings when a rest device is not inserted, preventing dirt entry and enhancing aesthetics by ensuring the openings are flush with the housing front side, potentially using energy storage means like springs or permanent magnets for automatic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple insertion openings are provided for rest devices at different positions, then adaptability to different drinking container sizes is improved, but the tendency to become dirty in unused openings worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The closing elements are extracted as separate components that can be independently activated to close individual insertion openings. When a rest device is inserted in one opening, the corresponding closing element is displaced to close that opening, preventing dirt entry while maintaining the ability to access other openings when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The closing elements are designed to operate automatically through self-service mechanisms. The insertion of a rest device itself triggers the closing action by displacing the closing element, eliminating the need for separate control systems and enabling automatic prevention of dirt accumulation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If closing means are added to prevent dirt entry, then cleanability is improved, but device complexity worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The closing function is merged with the existing insertion opening structure. The closing elements are integrated into the housing and work in conjunction with the rest device insertion mechanism, combining multiple functions (closing, guiding, and sealing) into a unified system that does not require entirely separate mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The closing elements utilize flexible or thin-walled structures that can deform to accommodate the rest device insertion while maintaining the closing function. This allows the closing mechanism to be implemented with minimal material and structural complexity, using elastic deformation rather than rigid moving parts.
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 improves cleanability by preventing dirt accumulation in unused insertion openings and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the device by maintaining a clean and closed appearance, reducing the risk of dirt entry and facilitating easier maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
potentially using energy storage means like springs or permanent magnets for automatic operation
Implementation Method 2
potentially using energy storage means like springs or permanent magnets for automatic operation
Data Source
AI summary
A beverage preparation device (1), in particular a coffee machine, with a housing (2), an outlet (5) for discharging a beverage into a beverage container and a support element (6) for supporting the beverage container, said support element being arranged in a detachable manner in the insert openings (9, 10) which are arranged on the front side of the housing (4) and which are at variable distances to the outlet (5). The insertion openings (9, 10) are associated with closure means (12) for closing the insertion openings (9, 10) when the support device (6) is not inserted.