Beverage Capsule Barcode Layout for Reliable Camera Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage capsule systems face challenges in reliably reading identification codes due to convex surfaces, limited information capacity, and complexity in image processing, which hinders automation and user communication.
Innovation Solution
A capsule with a two-dimensional barcode inscribed in a circular area on a membrane, allowing for reliable reading without orientation constraints and providing increased information capacity, protected by layers and invisible ink for aesthetic and functional benefits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a code is printed on the convex surface of the capsule, then the capsule can be identified, but the code becomes distorted and reading is negatively affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from printing codes on the convex outer surface to embedding codes within flat internal surfaces (capsule bottom or lid) that are visible through transparent or translucent membrane portions. This dimensional shift from external surface to internal flat surface eliminates distortion while maintaining identification functionality.
2Measurement precision
If the capsule is moved over a large path for code reading, then the code can be read reliably, but the reading process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a stationary code position on the capsule that requires only partial movement or no movement for reading. The code is positioned on the bottom or lid and becomes visible when the capsule is in the holder, eliminating the need for large-path movement while ensuring reliable reading through proper positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule's own positioning in the holder automatically brings the code into the reading position of the optical reader. The system uses the capsule insertion action itself to achieve code alignment, eliminating separate reading movement steps and simplifying the overall process.
3Device complexity
If the code contains limited information, then the code is simple to read, but the information capacity is insufficient for modern beverage preparation needs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adopts two-dimensional matrix barcodes (Data Matrix, QR codes) that encode information in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. This allows significantly increased information capacity compared to traditional linear barcodes, enabling storage of multiple parameters (beverage type, temperature, pressure, volume, ingredients) while maintaining a compact format suitable for capsule surfaces.
4Measurement precision
If mechanical elements are used to flatten the capsule surface for code reading, then the code can be read accurately, but the capsule may rupture and mechanical friction increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying external mechanical force to flatten the capsule, the patent positions the code on internal flat surfaces (bottom or lid) that are naturally flat and become visible through the membrane. This eliminates mechanical stress on the capsule while achieving accurate code reading through optical transparency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical flattening systems with optical reading systems that read codes through transparent or translucent membranes. This substitution eliminates mechanical contact and friction, reducing capsule rupture risk while maintaining reading accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
Capsule for the preparation of a beverage from beverage ingredients contained therein, comprising a body (2) comprising at least one compartment for receiving said beverage ingredients and a flange-like rim (4) extending outwardly and transversally to a central axis (I) of said body; a membrane (6) for closing the opening which is sealed onto the flange-like rim, an optical code (7) containing binary information configured to be read by a camera (11) of a beverage producing device (20), wherein the optical code (7) is a two-dimensional barcode having rectilinear borders (7a-7d) and which is inscribed in a circular area (8) concentric relative to the center (O) of the membrane having a radius (R) smaller than the radius (R0) of the membrane.