Hot beverage preparation device with coupling device

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Fully automatic coffee machines require precise positioning and operation of brewing units during removal and insertion, which can be cumbersome for users.

Innovation Solution

A detachable shaft-hub connection with engagement play between coupling elements allows for axial and radial movement, enabling automatic coupling and easier handling of the brewing unit, even if axes are not directly aligned.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If precise positioning and operation of brewing units is required during removal and insertion, then reliable engagement is achieved, but user operation becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereliable engagementVSAvoiduser operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by introducing engagement play (axial and radial clearance) between the coupling elements. This allows the brewing unit to be inserted without precise alignment while still achieving reliable engagement through the self-centering effect of the play-coupling mechanism, thus resolving the contradiction between reliable engagement and ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling device enables self-alignment and self-centering of the brewing unit during insertion. The play-coupling automatically compensates for misalignment and guides the brewing unit into the correct position without requiring user intervention for precise positioning, making the system self-servicing and greatly simplifying user operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If coded coupling elements are used for precise positioning, then engagement reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveengagement reliabilityVSAvoidcoupling mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts and eliminates the need for complex coded coupling elements and precise guide rail positioning systems. By using a play-coupling mechanism with inherent self-centering capability, the invention removes unnecessary complexity while maintaining engagement reliability through the mechanical play between coupling elements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of using complex coded elements to enforce precise positioning, the invention inverts the approach by using intentional play (clearance) to enable automatic self-alignment. The coupling elements are designed to engage with deliberate gaps that allow the brewing unit to find its correct position automatically, simplifying the overall coupling mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentEP3162255B1Hot beverage preparation device with coupling device

Publication Date: 2020.02.19 BSH HAUSGERATE GMBH

Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3

AI summary

The present invention discloses a hot beverage preparation device (1) with a first coupling element (2) coupled to a drive unit (4), with a brewing unit (9) that can be removed from the hot beverage preparation device (1) and with a second coupling element (11) assigned to the brewing unit. , wherein when the hot beverage preparation device (1) is in operation, the first coupling element (2) and the second coupling element (11) engage in one another with an engagement play.