Apparatus and method for preparing a beverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation systems face challenges in maximizing extraction yield and quality, particularly at reduced temperatures and pressures, and struggle to efficiently dissolve soluble powders, especially those with low solubility or fat content, while maintaining consumer convenience.
Innovation Solution
A method involving multiple passes of liquid through an extraction chamber, alternating directions, and controlled liquid volumes and temperatures to enhance extraction and dissolution, using a system with a liquid conveying means that reduces stress on components and allows for both hot and cold beverage production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If high temperature and pressure fluid is used to increase extraction, then the amount of beverage extract increases, but energy consumption increases and quality may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic reciprocating flow where liquid alternately flows forward through the extraction chamber and then reverses direction, creating multiple extraction cycles. This periodic action allows thorough extraction at lower temperatures by repeatedly exposing fresh liquid to the extractable material, eliminating the need for continuous high temperature and pressure
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary wetting of the extractable material with liquid before the main extraction process. This preliminary action prepares the material for more efficient extraction at lower temperatures by ensuring proper saturation and contact, reducing the need for high energy input
2Quantity of substance
If high pressure fluid is used to increase extraction, then the amount of beverage extract increases, but the system complexity and risk to consumer increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters from high pressure to low pressure operation. By using reciprocating flow at atmospheric or near-atmospheric pressure, the system achieves effective extraction without the safety risks associated with high pressure systems, maintaining reliability while improving extraction yield
3Device complexity
If single pass fluid flow is used, then the system is simple, but extraction yield is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic reciprocating flow that reverses direction multiple times through the extraction chamber. This creates multiple passes of liquid through the same material without requiring complex multi-chamber systems, maintaining simplicity while dramatically increasing extraction yield through repeated contact cycles
4Use of energy by moving object
If cold water is used for extraction, then energy consumption is reduced, but extraction and dissolution capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The reciprocating flow system creates periodic cycles of liquid contact with the extractable material. This repeated exposure compensates for the lower extraction efficiency per pass at cold temperatures, maintaining high overall extraction rates while using minimal energy, as cold water requires no heating
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
Improves extraction rate and quality, reduces preparation time, and enhances dissolution of soluble materials, especially at lower temperatures, without increasing energy consumption or complexity.
Implementation Method 1
the liquid conveying means is configured to convey a liquid through the chamber alternately via the inlet and the outlet
Implementation Method 2
any extractable/soluble material within the chamber can be mixed with the fluid, usually at an elevated temperature and pressure, in order to promote the extraction of soluble components
Implementation Method 3
conveying a liquid into the chamber via the inlet and, at least a portion of the liquid, out of the chamber via the outlet
Data Source
AI summary
An invention as provided is a method of preparing a beverage or beverage extract comprising steps of: a. providing an extraction chamber comprising an extractable beverage material, a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, and b. conveying a liquid into the chamber via the inlet and at least a portion of the liquid out of the chamber via the outlet, and c. conveying at least a portion of the liquid that has exited the chamber from step b) back into the chamber via the outlet and conveying at least a portion of the liquid out of the chamber via the inlet, wherein steps b) and c) are repeated at least twice, and wherein at least a portion of the liquid conveyed into the chamber in at least one subsequent step b), in addition to the first step b), is conveyed into the chamber for the first time.