Brewing module, capsule recognition module, and beverage preparation machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drinks preparation machines face complexity in detecting characteristics of portion capsules before brewing, particularly with non-flat or cuboid capsules, due to cumbersome mechanisms requiring multiple motor-driven units or coupling systems.
Innovation Solution
A brewing module with movable parts that form a brewing chamber in three defined positions, allowing capsule recognition and brewing without additional moving parts, using a single drive for linear movement, and incorporating capsule recognition means to read optical and magnetic features for suitable capsule identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If multiple motor-driven units or coupling mechanisms are used for capsule recognition and transfer, then capsule detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the capsule recognition function and the brewing chamber closure function into a single integrated mechanism. The brewing chamber part simultaneously performs the dual function of closing the brewing chamber and enabling capsule recognition, eliminating the need for separate motor-driven units for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The brewing chamber part is designed as a multi-functional component that serves multiple purposes: it acts as a closure for the brewing chamber, a support for capsule recognition, and a transfer mechanism. This universal design reduces the overall number of components and simplifies the system architecture.
2Measurement precision
If additional moving parts are added for capsule recognition, then capsule identification accuracy is improved, but reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the capsule recognition function with the existing brewing chamber closure mechanism, so that the same moving part performs both functions. This reduces the total number of moving parts while maintaining capsule identification capability, thereby improving system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The brewing chamber part automatically performs capsule recognition as part of its normal operation cycle. The mechanism itself provides the necessary positioning and support for sensor-based capsule identification without requiring additional dedicated recognition mechanisms.
3Ease of operation
If horizontal brewing module design is used, then capsule ejection is simplified, but adaptability to different capsule types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable brewing chamber part that can change its position and orientation dynamically. This allows the system to adapt to different capsule types by adjusting the chamber configuration, while maintaining the horizontal ejection mechanism for operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The brewing chamber is divided into movable and stationary parts, allowing independent movement of the chamber closure. This segmentation enables the system to accommodate various capsule geometries while preserving the simplified horizontal ejection function.
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
Enables efficient capsule recognition and brewing process adaptation with a simplified design, allowing new capsule insertion during brewing and improved reliability through optical and magnetic feature detection, without the need for additional moving parts or complex mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
introducing a brewing fluid into the capsule, and to discharge the brewed drink out of the capsule
Implementation Method 2
optical and magnetic features for suitable capsule identification
Implementation Method 3
optical and magnetic features for suitable capsule identification
Data Source
AI summary
A brewing module for a beverage-preparing machine includes a housing and first and second module parts. The housing has a capsule insertion opening through which the capsule can be inserted. The brewing module parts are movable relative to one another to form a brewing chamber in a first position. After movement from the first position to a second position a capsule located in the brewing chamber falls downward into a capsule container by the action of gravity while, in the second position, the brewing module parts cause a capsule inserted through the capsule insertion opening to be stopped vertically above a height of the brewing position at a capsule detection position. In a third position, a capsule at the capsule detection position can fall downward from the capsule detection position, substantially to the height of the brewing position. The second position is between the first position and the third position.