Beverage Brewing Unit Retaining Element and Ejector Coordination
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage brewing apparatuses face challenges in coordinating the movements of retaining elements and ejectors to prevent capsule misalignment and ensure proper ejection, particularly when both elements act on the same perimetric flange of the capsule.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates separate and movable retaining elements and ejectors, which are slidably mounted relative to a supporting structure and mechanically operated in conjunction with the brewing unit's first member. This ensures that the retaining element and ejector are in the correct positions during brewing unit opening and closing, with their movements controlled by the first member's movement between home and operating positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a retaining element and ejector are provided to coordinate capsule retention and ejection, then capsule positioning reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining element and ejector are merged into a single integrated component that performs both functions. The element has a retaining portion for holding the capsule during insertion and an ejector portion for removing the capsule after brewing, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining reliable capsule positioning and ejection
Solution Approach 2:
The single element serves multiple functions: it acts as both a retaining element during capsule insertion and positioning, and as an ejector after brewing is complete. This multi-functional design reduces the number of parts needed while ensuring reliable capsule handling throughout the entire brewing cycle
2Reliability
If the retaining element and ejector act on the same perimetric flange of the capsule, then capsule control is improved, but interference between elements occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The single element is segmented into two distinct functional portions: a retaining portion with a first profile for engaging the perimetric flange during insertion, and an ejector portion with a second profile for pushing the capsule after brewing. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its function independently without interference, while both act on the same flange for effective capsule control
3Device complexity
If manual operation using lever or handle is used, then device simplicity is improved, but operation precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A cam mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's manual operation and the retaining element/ejector. The cam profile translates simple rotational or linear motion into precise controlled movement of the retaining element, ensuring accurate capsule positioning and reliable ejection without requiring complex coordination by the user
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 solution ensures reliable capsule retention and ejection, preventing capsule misalignment and ensuring smooth operation of the brewing unit, thereby enhancing the mechanical reliability and simplicity of the apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
beverage making means, which inject a liquid substance (in particular, pressurised hot water) into the capsule
Implementation Method 2
removal of the capsule from the brewing unit involves a return of the capsule along said axis and subsequently falling due to gravity along an unloading channel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
An apparatus (1) for making a beverage by means of a capsule (9) comprises a supporting structure (11) and a brewing unit (2), which comprises a first member (3) and a second member (4). The first member (3) is movable between an operating position, in which the brewing unit (2) is closed, and a home position, in which the brewing unit (2) is open. The brewing unit (2) comprises a retaining element (5) which is configured to receive a perimetric flange (92) of the capsule (9), when the first member (3) is in the home position. The retaining element (5) is slidably mounted relative to the supporting structure (11) and is movable between a receiving position and a disengaging position. The brewing unit (2) comprises an ejector (6) which is configured to eject the capsule (9) from a housing (41) in the second member (4) during the movement of the first member (3) from the operating position to the home position. The ejector (6) is slidably mounted relative to the supporting structure (11) and is movable between an extracted position and a retracted position. The first member (3) mechanically operates in conjunction with the retaining element (5) and with the ejector (6). The movement of the first member (3) from the home position to the operating position causes the movement of the retaining element (5) from the receiving position to the disengaging position and causes the movement of the ejector (6) from the extracted position to the retracted position; the movement of the first member (3) from the operating position to the home position causes the movement of the retaining element (5) from the disengaging position to the receiving position and causes the movement of the ejector (6) from the retracted position to the extracted position. The retaining element (5) and the ejector (6) are parts separate from each other and are movable one relative to the other.