Brewing Device Adapter Mechanism for Multi-Size Capsule Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brewing devices for capsules of two different sizes are complex and costly, requiring sophisticated motorized actuators and electronic control systems, making them less accessible as a simple and inexpensive solution.
Innovation Solution
A brewing device with two movable parts that adapt to accommodate capsules of varying sizes using a cup-shaped body and a transverse body, featuring a hydraulic cylinder for sealing and an injection assembly with a movable needle for infusion fluid injection, along with a blocking device to manage different capsule heights, and a guide system for capsule orientation and size adaptation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If motorized actuators and electronic control systems are used to accommodate capsules of two different sizes, then the brewing device can handle multiple capsule sizes, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The cup-shaped body incorporates two elements that can move relative to each other to dynamically adjust the inner space volume. The first element defines a base volume, while the second element can displace along the longitudinal axis to increase or decrease the total inner space, allowing the same brewing device to accommodate both small and large capsules without complex actuators
Solution Approach 2:
The second element is nested within the first element, with the second element's outer surface fitting inside the first element's inner space. This nested configuration allows one element to move within the other, creating a compact mechanism for volume adjustment that eliminates the need for separate motorized actuators
2Manufacturing precision
If sophisticated electronic control systems are implemented, then precise control of brewing parameters is achieved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects capsule size and adjusts the second element's position accordingly without requiring complex electronic sensors or control algorithms. The mechanical design itself provides the intelligence for size adaptation, reducing dependency on expensive electronic control systems while maintaining precise brewing parameters
3Adaptability or versatility
If the inner space of the cup-shaped body is made adjustable, then capsules of different sizes can be accommodated, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cup-shaped body transitions from a static single-volume structure to a dynamic two-volume structure where the second element can move along the longitudinal axis. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the inner space to be customized for different capsule sizes while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The first element serves multiple functions: it provides the base brewing chamber, contains the second element, and contributes to defining the fluid-tight enclosure. The second element similarly serves multiple purposes: it adjusts the inner space volume, maintains structural integrity during movement, and participates in forming the sealing surface, thereby reducing the need for additional specialized components
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 device provides a cost-effective and efficient brewing solution capable of handling both smaller and larger capsules without the need for complex actuators, ensuring fluid-tight sealing and precise control of infusion parameters, enhancing usability and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The inner cup bottom wall is coupled to a hydraulic cylinder bottom rod to move, by action of the hydraulic cylinder, from an initial position in which the inner cup bottom wall is spaced apart from the capsule flange to an engaged position in which the inner cup bottom wall engages the capsule flange
Implementation Method 2
The jaws are hinged on respective stationary pins to swing, normally against the action of an elastic member, between a closing position, in which they support the capsule, and an open position
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
Brewing device (1) for producing a beverage from capsules (2) of two different sizes; wherein the brewing device (1) has an inlet (40) sized to allow the insertion of a larger capsule (2B), arranged according to a given orientation; a clamping retaining device (35) movable to and from a normal closed configuration, in which it defines a seat suitable to retain the capsule (2); a cover (29) arranged to close the inlet (40) and movable to and from an open position, in which the inlet (40) is accessible from the outside for loading a capsule (2); and an adapter (41) mounted to move, when the cover (29) is in the open position, between an inlet disengagement position (40) and an inlet engagement position (40), in which it reduces the inlet (40) area to allow a smaller capsule (2A) to be fed to the retaining device (35) according to a given orientation.