Brewing Unit With Multi-Portion Milk Docking for Faster Coffee-Milk Prep
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation devices are inefficient and cumbersome due to the need for sequential loading and unloading of capsules for coffee and milk froth preparation, leading to time delays and waste, especially when preparing coffee-milk beverages, as they require two single-serving capsules and have limitations with non-foamable milk powder in stationary containers.
Innovation Solution
A brewing unit with a dedicated docking device for a multi-portion milk powder container, allowing simultaneous or separate preparation of coffee and milk froth, using a mixing and foaming device that ensures only foamable milk powder is used, and includes a control system for efficient water supply and preparation options, including simultaneous or staggered brewing and frothing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If single-serving capsules are used for both coffee and milk powder, then portability and freshness are improved, but preparation time increases and waste is generated due to sequential loading and unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the coffee capsule holder and milk powder container into a single integrated brewing chamber. The milk powder container is positioned such that its outlet opens directly into the brewing chamber, allowing milk powder to be dispensed into the same chamber where coffee is brewed. This merging eliminates the need for sequential loading and unloading of separate capsules, thereby reducing preparation time while maintaining ease of operation.
2Productivity
If a stationary refillable milk powder container is used, then multiple preparations are possible without reinsertion, but non-foamable milk powder cannot be detected and froth quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a test device that automatically detects whether the milk powder in the container is suitable for foaming. The test device performs foamability testing and provides feedback to the control unit, which then determines whether to dispense the milk powder or signal the user to replace it. This self-service quality control mechanism ensures consistent froth quality across multiple preparations while maintaining high productivity.
3Productivity
If separate receiving chambers are used for coffee and milk powder capsules, then simultaneous preparation is enabled, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the milk powder container into two functional parts: a storage container and a dispensing mechanism with outlet. The container can be detached and replaced individually, while the brewing chamber remains separate. This segmentation allows the system to function with a single brewing chamber while enabling simultaneous preparation capabilities through the independent milk powder dispensing system.
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 reduces preparation time and waste by allowing multiple uses of milk powder, ensuring optimal froth quality, and enabling flexible preparation of coffee and milk drinks with reduced capsule changes, enhancing operational efficiency and hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
where it is mixed with water and then using a rotating foam whisk
Implementation Method 2
produces milk foam in a special foaming device with the addition of preparation water and air
Implementation Method 3
The water is pumped out of a water tank and through a flow heater by means of a pump
Implementation Method 4
The water is pumped out of a water tank and through a flow heater by means of a pump
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a brewing unit of a device for preparing beverages, comprising a first receiving device which is a coffee brewing chamber (9) having an outlet, suitable for receiving loose coffee powder or a coffee or cocoa portion unit (10) and suitable for the preparation of a beverage by using said unit. For a more economical preparation process, the brewing unit is enhanced such that the brewing unit is provided with a second receiving device, comprising a docking device (7) for receiving a removable encapsulated multi-portion container (41) for milk powder.