Binary-Coded Supply Cartridge for Single-Dose Position Recognition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines lack efficient and reliable methods to identify and track the type and position of single dose portions in supply cartridges, leading to suboptimal operation and user experience.
Innovation Solution
A supply cartridge with a strip-like support featuring varying numbers and dimensions of holes along the dividing regions between single dose portions, combined with an RFID information device for encoding information about the aromatic substance and position, and a machine designed to read this code for improved operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a support of single portions presents holes in the peripheral side zones of all dividing regions between successive single doses, then the positioning and fixation of the strip relative to the actuation device is improved, but the ability to provide information about the type and position of single dose portions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses variations in the presence, number, or dimensions of holes as visual codes to convey information about the type and position of single dose portions. Different hole configurations act as binary code representations, allowing the system to encode multiple information parameters using the existing hole structure for positioning and fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical recognition unit as an intermediary between the hole-patterned support and the beverage preparation machine. This unit reads the hole configurations as binary code and translates them into actionable information about the aromatic substance type and portion position, enabling the machine to adapt its operation accordingly.
2Ease of operation
If the support presents attachment means at respective edges to ensure continuous supply, then the ease of operation is improved, but the precision of identifying single dose portion type and position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the holes serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical attachment means for continuous supply of support bands while simultaneously encoding information about the type and position of single dose portions. The same structural features used for mechanical purposes are repurposed as information carriers, eliminating the need for separate identification mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical identification systems with an optical reading system that detects hole patterns. Instead of using separate mechanical sensors or switches to identify portion type and position, the system uses an optical recognition unit to read binary code represented by hole configurations, simplifying the overall system while improving precision.
3Device complexity
If no code reading system is implemented, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and efficiency of beverage preparation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a simplified binary code representation where holes are either present or absent, creating a binary information system. This binary code can be easily read and processed by the optical recognition unit, enabling efficient identification of aromatic substance type and portion position without requiring complex encoding schemes or multiple reading mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure provides its own identification information through the hole patterns embedded in its design. The binary code is inherently part of the support's physical structure, eliminating the need for separate identification tags, labels, or additional components. The system reads information that is already present in the supply cartridge itself.
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
Enhances the reliability and efficiency of beverage preparation by providing clear information about the type and remaining number of single dose portions, facilitating precise control and user-friendly operation.
Implementation Method 1
an optical recognition unit for reading a code provided in replaceable cartridges, said unit comprising at least a radiation emitter and a radiation receiver, and said code being provided as a transmission pattern
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a supply cartridge (1) comprising a support (2) of single portions, provided as a flexible strip-like support, or similar, and presenting a plurality of single dose portions (21) of an edible substance, such as for example coffee, disposed successively along a respective longitudinal direction. In particular, said support (2) of single portions presents a plurality of holes (25) adapted so as to provide a binary code for recognition by a machine (10) for preparing beverages of a set of parameters associated with said supply cartridge (1). The present invention further refers to a machine (10) for preparing beverages, adapted for using a supply cartridge (1), including code apprehension means (7) provided in functional connection with a control device (8) of said machine (10), as well as to a process of preparation of beverages based upon a machine (10) for preparing beverages according to the present invention.