Beverage preparation machine and method and system for beverage preparation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capsule-based beverage preparation machines face difficulties in easy operation and efficient handling of capsules, particularly in preventing accidental insertion and ensuring capsules can be easily removed without damage.
Innovation Solution
A brewing unit with movable brewing chamber halves and holding means that allow capsules to be inserted and removed without mechanical contact, featuring a design that includes spoon-shaped holding means and a spring-loaded mechanism to release capsules, along with separate access for rinsing and easy cleaning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the brewing chamber halves are kept close together to prevent capsule loss, then capsule retention is improved, but capsule insertion and removal becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The brewing chamber halves are designed to be movable relative to each other, transitioning between a closed position for brewing and an open position for capsule insertion/removal. This dynamic configuration allows the system to optimize for both capsule retention during brewing and ease of operation during loading/unloading.
Solution Approach 2:
The brewing chamber is divided into two separable halves that can move independently. This segmentation allows the chamber to open wide for easy capsule insertion and removal, then close tightly for secure capsule retention during the brewing process, resolving the contradiction between accessibility and retention.
2Manufacturing precision
If holding means are used to secure capsules in intermediate position, then capsule positioning is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The holding means are designed to automatically engage with the capsule when the brewing chamber halves are in the open position, securing the capsule in the intermediate position without requiring additional actuators or complex control mechanisms. The system uses the natural positioning of the chamber halves to trigger capsule retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding means act as an intermediary element between the brewing chamber halves and the capsule, providing a simple mechanical interface that secures the capsule in the intermediate position. This intermediary component enables precise capsule positioning without requiring the brewing chamber halves themselves to perform the securing function, thus simplifying the overall mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If brewing chamber halves are spaced apart for capsule removal, then capsule accessibility is improved, but capsule grasping capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The brewing chamber halves dynamically adjust their spacing based on the operational phase: they are spaced apart during capsule insertion and removal to provide accessibility, then move together to a closed position during brewing to ensure secure capsule grasping and retention. This dynamic positioning resolves the contradiction between accessibility and grasping capability.
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
Facilitates easy insertion and removal of capsules, prevents accidental insertion errors, and allows for efficient cleaning without damaging capsules, enhancing user experience and machine functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The holding means can be spring-loaded, wherein the spring holds the capsule in the intermediate position and releases the capsule when the brewing chamber is closed.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a beverage preparation machine (1) comprising a brewing unit (3) having a brewing chamber (10), the brewing chamber (10) having an inlet (23), an outlet, and at least one further access (25) for rinsing the brewing chamber (10). The beverage preparation machine (1) also comprises: a pump (4) for delivering an extraction or rinsing liquid; a first fluid line (49) between the pump (4) and the inlet (23), said first fluid line having a first valve (50); a second fluid line (51) between the pump (4) and the further access (25), said second fluid line having a second valve (52); and a controller (5) for controlling at least one of the valves (50, 52) and/or the pump (4).