Brewing module and system for preparing a beverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brewing modules require expensive construction and high manufacturing accuracy due to the need for stable gear axes and precise tolerances to achieve reliable sealing under high pressures, leading to increased production costs and wear.
Innovation Solution
A brewing module design featuring a frame with movable chamber parts and an actuating device with a gear system that decouples the gear element from the pressing force, using a toggle joint and elastic elements to absorb contact pressure, allowing for a less rigid construction and reduced manufacturing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stable and rigid construction with fixed gear axis is used to achieve reliable sealing under high pressures, then sealing reliability is improved, but manufacturing costs increase and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pressing force function from the gear mechanism by introducing a separate pressing element that acts directly on the chamber parts. This separates the sealing function from the transmission function, allowing the gear mechanism to be simpler and less rigid while maintaining reliable sealing under high pressures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pressing element as an intermediary component between the actuating device and the chamber parts. This mediator absorbs and transmits the pressing force independently, decoupling it from the gear mechanism and allowing each component to be optimized separately for its specific function.
2Reliability
If high manufacturing accuracy is applied to all parts of the actuating device and chamber parts, then sealing reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by requiring high manufacturing accuracy only for the pressing element and the contact surfaces of the chamber parts, while allowing other components of the actuating device to have standard tolerances. This localized precision approach maintains sealing reliability without requiring high precision throughout the entire device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the device into components with different precision requirements: the pressing mechanism and chamber contact surfaces require high precision for sealing, while the gear mechanism and other transmission components can use standard tolerances, reducing overall manufacturing complexity.
3Reliability
If a fixed gear axis is used to transmit pressing force, then force transmission is reliable, but wear and tear on the mechanics increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the force transmission function from the fixed gear axis by introducing a separate pressing element that directly applies force to the chamber parts. This eliminates the need for the gear axis to bear high pressing forces, significantly reducing wear and extending the lifespan of the transmission mechanism.
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
This design reduces production costs, minimizes wear, and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining reliable sealing, allowing for lower closing forces and improved user-friendliness.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic element (19) arranged on the projection (20), which interacts with the chamber part (5) at least in a section during the movement into the closed position and at least partially compressing the elastic element (19)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The brewing module (1) according to the invention is suitable for preparing a beverage from a substance contained in a portion package and a liquid medium. The brewing module (1) comprises a frame in which a first chamber part and a second chamber part are arranged, the two chamber parts being movable relative to one another between an open position and a closed position (S) by means of an actuating device. The frame comprises at least one lateral wall (10). In the closed position (S), the two chamber parts can be pressed against one another under initial tension by means of a pressing force (A) in order to form a receiving chamber for the portion package. The receiving chamber has at least one entry opening and at least one exit opening. The liquid medium can be conducted through the portion package in the closed position. The actuating device has a gear mechanism having a drive member and an output member, wherein the gear mechanism and the lateral wall (10) can be locked to one another such that the pressing force (A) can be absorbed substantially by the lateral wall (10) in the closed position (S). In the closed position (S), a gear unit member arranged between the drive member and the output member is substantially decoupled by the pressing force (A).