Brew Basket Support Ring for Stable Filter Pod Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional automatic drip coffee makers are ineffective in accommodating single serving filter pods, leading to weak and inconsistent coffee due to floating or tilting of pods, and limitations in flavor and volume extraction when using multiple pods.
Innovation Solution
A brew basket with a stepped support ring to securely hold filter pods in place, and an optional adaptor to allow multiple pods for enhanced brewing, ensuring consistent extraction and increased beverage volume or strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a filter pod is placed in a conventional brew basket, then the brewing process can proceed, but the pod floats or tilts causing weak and inconsistent coffee extraction
Solution Approach 1:
A support ring is introduced as an intermediary element between the brew basket and the filter pod. The support ring has an inner diameter that receives the flange of the filter pod, providing a stable interface that prevents floating and tilting. This mediator ensures consistent pod positioning during brewing without requiring direct modification of the pod or basket structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The brew basket is segmented into functional zones: an upper portion for water distribution, a support ring for pod stabilization, and a lower portion for drainage. The support ring is further segmented with an inner diameter for pod flange reception and an outer diameter for basket engagement, creating distinct functional regions that address positioning reliability.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple filter pods are used to increase beverage volume or strength, then extraction capacity increases, but the pods become disoriented and dwell time becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The support ring structure serves multiple functions: it stabilizes single pods, accommodates multiple pods simultaneously, and maintains consistent orientation for all pods during brewing. The universal design allows the same support mechanism to handle varying quantities of pods (one or two) while ensuring stable positioning and consistent dwell time for each pod.
Solution Approach 2:
The support ring acts as a mediator between multiple pods and the brew basket, providing a common stabilization interface. Each pod's flange engages with the support ring's inner diameter, ensuring that all pods are held at the correct position and orientation regardless of quantity, thereby maintaining consistent extraction.
3Reliability
If a support ring is added to the brew basket to hold filter pods, then pod positioning stability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support ring is constructed as a thin, flexible component that can be made from materials such as plastic or metal mesh. This thin-film approach provides the necessary structural support for pod positioning while adding minimal complexity and weight to the brew basket assembly. The flexible nature allows for easy manufacturing and assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The support ring design can be replicated as a separate, replaceable component that fits into the brew basket. This copying approach allows the stabilization function to be added without permanently modifying the brew basket structure, maintaining simplicity while improving reliability. The support ring can be easily removed and replaced if needed.
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 improved extraction and repeatability of brewing results, with higher average extraction levels and lower standard deviation compared to traditional brew baskets, allowing for stronger or larger servings.
Implementation Method 1
A stepped support ring is integral in and defines a ledge around a circumference of the brew basket... A coffee filter pod is then able to be supported on its periphery by the support ring during brewing
Implementation Method 2
there is an invariable amount of flavor and solids that may be extracted from the pod, thereby limiting either the volume of hot beverage produced or its strength
Implementation Method 3
a hollow, funnel-shaped brew basket having a relatively wide top end and a relatively narrow bottom end. Both the top and bottom ends are open to allow the flow of liquid through the basket
Data Source
AI summary
A brew basket for a hot beverage maker has a funnel-shape with a relatively wide top end and relatively narrow bottom end. A stepped support ring is integral in and defines a ledge around a circumference of the brew basket. A filter pod is supported on its periphery by the support ring during brewing. An adaptor can be integrally attached to the brew basket to give a user an option to place a second filter pod in the brew basket to yield more or stronger brewed beverage.