Beverage support and method of using such support
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines with recipient supports are fragile due to rotating mass external to the axis, requiring manual actuation and position-blocking mechanisms, which complicates the use of recipients of different heights.
Innovation Solution
A support system for recipients that rotates horizontally around a vertical axis inside the machine, utilizing a circular helix engagement mechanism for automatic repositioning under gravity, eliminating the need for manual actuation and position-blocking means, and allowing for ergonomic use of various-sized recipients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the support for recipients rotates around a horizontal axis with the rotation axis on the side edge, then it enables adjustment for recipients of different heights, but the construction becomes fragile and requires manual actuation and position-blocking mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional rotation axis orientation from horizontal to vertical. The support rotates around a vertical axis that passes through the center of the support base rather than a horizontal axis on the side edge. This inversion fundamentally changes the rotation mechanics, allowing the support to pivot vertically while maintaining structural stability and eliminating the need for fragile external rotation mechanisms and position-blocking means.
2Ease of operation
If the rotation axis is disposed on the side edge of the support, then it enables rotation movement, but the entire mass rotates externally to the axis conveying fragility to the movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an asymmetric rotation mechanism where the vertical axis passes through the center of the support base, creating an unbalanced rotation that allows the support to naturally return to its initial position. This asymmetric design eliminates the need for complex position-blocking mechanisms and external rotation aids, simplifying the overall movement mechanism while maintaining operational ease.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual actuation and position-blocking mechanisms are added, then the support can be positioned for different recipient heights, but the operation becomes less intuitive and requires more interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service positioning mechanism where the support automatically returns to its initial position after being rotated to accommodate taller recipients. The vertical axis rotation with asymmetric mass distribution creates a natural return motion, eliminating the need for manual actuation mechanisms and position-blocking means. Users simply need to rotate the support to the desired position, and it maintains itself without requiring additional interaction.
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
The solution provides a robust, intuitive, and reliable mechanism for adjusting recipient height without manual interaction, ensuring efficient and simple operation while maintaining ergonomic usability and structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
a reposition from a rotated position to an initial position is carried out under the action of a gravity force
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The present invention refers to a machine (1) for preparing beverages, such as for example espresso type coffee, tea and similar, by means of extraction of single-dose packages containing a respective aromatic substance. The machine (1) for preparing beverages presents a machine body (2) and provides said beverages through at least one beverage discharge (3) provided at a given height above a support for recipients (4). Said machine (1) for preparing beverages distinguishes itself in that it present a support for recipients (4) adapted so that at least part thereof can be rotated around a vertical axis arranged in a centered manner relative to said support for recipients (4), thereby providing a more robust construction and an easier use of recipients of different heights. The present invention further refers to a method of use of said recipients support.