Brewing device for producing a beverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brewing devices for capsules of two different sizes are complex and costly, requiring sophisticated motorized actuators and electronic control systems, making them less accessible as a simple and inexpensive solution.
Innovation Solution
A brewing device with two movable parts that adapt to accommodate capsules of varying sizes using a cup-shaped body and a transverse body, featuring a perforable membrane and an injection assembly, allowing for automatic brewing without a dedicated motorized actuator, and a blocking device to manage different capsule heights, enabling efficient brewing of both smaller and larger capsules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If motorized actuators and electronic control systems are used to accommodate capsules of two different sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cup-shaped body incorporates two elements that can move relative to each other, creating a dynamic structure that adapts its inner space to accommodate capsules of different sizes. This mechanical adaptability eliminates the need for complex motorized actuators and electronic control systems, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cup-shaped body is divided into two separate elements that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows each element to be simpler in design while collectively providing the adaptability needed for different capsule sizes, reducing overall device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If motorized actuators and electronic control systems are used to accommodate capsules of two different sizes, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic movement between the two elements of the cup-shaped body provides adaptability through simple mechanical means rather than expensive motorized systems, making the device more manufacturable and cost-effective while maintaining the ability to accommodate different capsule sizes
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components in the cup-shaped body elements rather than costly motorized actuators and electronic controls, reducing manufacturing costs while achieving the required adaptability function
3Adaptability or versatility
If a cup-shaped body with two movable elements is used to adapt to different capsule sizes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The two elements of the cup-shaped body are designed to move relative to each other in response to capsule size, providing adaptability through straightforward mechanical movement rather than complex control systems, thus improving adaptability without significantly increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The cup-shaped body with movable elements serves multiple functions: it accommodates both small and large capsules, provides sealing, and enables brewing operations, reducing the need for separate specialized components and thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
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
The brewing device provides a cost-effective and simple solution for brewing beverages from capsules of different sizes, ensuring fluid-tight sealing and efficient brewing processes without the need for complex actuation systems, while maintaining adaptability for various capsule dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
The jaws are hinged on respective stationary pins to swing, normally against the action of an elastic member, between a closing position, in which they support the capsule, and an open position
Implementation Method 2
a capsule receiving device configured to receive a capsule and to guide it to fall into the brewing device
Data Source
AI summary
Brewing device for producing a beverage from capsules of two different sizes; wherein the brewing device has an inlet sized to allow the insertion of a larger capsule, arranged according to a given orientation; a clamping retaining device movable to and from a normal closed configuration, in which it defines a seat suitable to retain the capsule; a cover arranged to close the inlet and movable to and from an open position, in which the inlet is accessible from the outside for loading a capsule; and an adapter mounted to move, when the cover is in the open position, between an inlet disengagement position and an inlet engagement position, in which it reduces the inlet area to allow a smaller capsule to be fed to the retaining device according to a given orientation.