Brewing module and drinks preparation machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extraction appliances face challenges in reliably detecting capsule characteristics near the brewing chamber due to heat-induced fogging and contamination, which complicates optical recognition processes, and existing solutions like fans are costly and space-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A brewing module with a mechanically driven blowing device that produces an airflow to counteract fogging and contamination at the capsule recognition position, using a transparent window element and an optical sensor, such as a camera, to enable reliable optical capsule recognition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fan is used to produce airflow at the shielding window to prevent fogging, then the fogging problem is reliably overcome, but the costs increase and much space is taken up
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful effect (fogging) is extracted and addressed by removing moisture from the environment near the window using a desiccant material, rather than using a complex fan system to blow air. The desiccant packet is placed in direct contact with the window inner surface to absorb moisture locally.
Solution Approach 2:
A disposable or replaceable desiccant packet is used instead of an expensive fan. The desiccant material can be replaced periodically when it becomes saturated, providing a low-cost solution for fogging prevention without requiring complex mechanical systems.
2Reliability
If a camera is attached remotely and shielded from the brewing chamber, then it is protected from heat and contamination, but the read-out process becomes more difficult due to fogging or contamination of the shielding window
Solution Approach 1:
A desiccant material acts as an intermediary between the camera/shielding window and the humid hot environment. The desiccant absorbs moisture in the immediate vicinity of the window, preventing condensation and fogging while allowing the camera to remain protected in the warmer brewing chamber environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The desiccant material creates a localized dry environment only where needed (at the shielding window), rather than requiring the entire brewing chamber to be kept dry. This targeted approach prevents fogging at the critical interface without affecting the overall brewing process.
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 a cost-effective and space-efficient means to maintain clear visibility for capsule recognition, ensuring reliable detection of capsule characteristics and facilitating efficient brewing processes without the need for expensive fans.
Implementation Method 1
a blowing device for producing an airflow (60), the blowing device being arranged to produce an airflow at the side of the window element towards the capsule recognition position
Data Source
AI summary
A brewing module for preparing a brewed drink from a portion capsule includes a first brewing module part and a second brewing module part which is movable relative to this between a first brewing module part position and a second brewing module part position, wherein a movement of the second brewing module part relative to the first brewing module part can be driven by a manual or motorised drive via a transmission mechanism. A capsule recognition device with an optical sensor for detecting optical characteristics of the capsule is further present. The brewing module has a mechanically driveable blowing device that is arranged to produce an airflow at the side of the window element towards the portion capsule. The blowing device is assembled such that it is driven by a relative movement of elements of the brewing module which is produced by the drive or the transmission mechanism.