Cartridge, machine and system for the preparation of beverages and process for manufacturing the cartridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee cartridges are limited in compatibility with different machine types and materials, restricting the range of beverages that can be produced and are not easily biodegradable, leading to environmental concerns.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge design with an annular formation extending from the second end wall, made from compostable materials like polylactic acid or maize starches, which allows for use in various machines and enables the production of different beverage types without interaction with machine perforating components, facilitating biodegradability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If cartridges are made from traditional plastics materials, then structural strength and durability are improved, but biodegradability and environmental friendliness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition parameters by using biodegradable materials such as polylactic acid (PLA) or maize starches instead of traditional plastics, while maintaining the structural integrity required for cartridge function. This allows the cartridge to degrade environmentally after use.
2Reliability
If cartridges are designed for specific machine types, then machine-cartridge compatibility is improved, but versatility across different machine types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the cartridge with a universal annular formation configuration that can interact with different machine types (both punching and tearing machines). The cartridge body includes an annular formation that can be punched or torn depending on the machine type, allowing the same cartridge design to work across multiple machine platforms.
3Reliability
If cartridges use materials that interact with machine perforating components, then sealing and liquid-tight separation are improved, but biodegradability and environmental friendliness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters to use biodegradable plastics that can still provide liquid-tight separation during use. The material is selected to maintain functional properties (sealing, structural integrity) during the beverage preparation process while enabling biodegradation after disposal.
Data Source
AI summary
The cartridge (1) according to the invention comprises an envelope (2) having a first and a second end wall (4, 5) connected together by an annular lateral wall (6) and defining an inner chamber (7) containing a quantity or dose of a substance (S) for preparation of the beverage. The envelope (2) has at least one first and at least one second permeable wall (6a, 5) acting as an inlet for the introduction of a flow of water into the chamber (7) and as an outlet from it respectively for outflow of the beverage from chamber (7). Between the first and the second permeable walls (6a, 5) the envelope (2) has an outwardly projecting annular formation (3g). A portion of the permeable inlet wall (6a) for the introduction of water into the chamber (7) is made in the annular lateral wall (6) of the envelope (2). The annular formation (3g) extends from the second end wall (5) in a direction substantially opposite to the first end wall (4).