Capsule Brewing Chamber With Self-Adjusting Cup Seat
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing brewing devices that accommodate two differently sized capsules are often complex and expensive, requiring sophisticated motorized actuators and electronic control systems, making them less accessible as a simple and cost-effective solution.
Innovation Solution
A brewing device with two movable parts that adjust between open and closing positions to accommodate capsules of varying sizes, using a transverse body with an injection assembly and a cup-shaped body with adjustable inner cups to securely hold and brew capsules of different dimensions, without the need for a dedicated motorized actuator, and featuring a blocking device to manage the brewing process automatically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If motorized actuators and electronic control systems are used to accommodate differently sized capsules, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cup-shaped body is designed with two elements that can move relative to each other, creating a dynamic structure that adapts to different capsule sizes. The first element remains stationary while the second element moves along the longitudinal axis, allowing the inner space to be adjusted dynamically based on capsule dimensions without requiring complex motorized actuators or electronic controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The cup-shaped body is segmented into two separate elements instead of being a single rigid structure. This segmentation allows independent movement of the second element relative to the first, enabling the system to accommodate different capsule sizes through simple mechanical displacement rather than complex automated systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If motorized actuators and electronic control systems are used to accommodate differently sized capsules, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic adjustment mechanism uses simple mechanical elements that can move relative to each other along the longitudinal axis, eliminating the need for expensive motorized actuators and electronic control systems. This approach maintains adaptability to different capsule sizes while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs simple, inexpensive mechanical components rather than expensive automated systems. The movable second element and elastic member create a low-cost solution that achieves the same adaptability function as complex motorized systems would provide.
3Strength
If a rigid cup-shaped body is used, then structural strength is improved, but adaptability to different capsule sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cup-shaped body transitions from a rigid single-piece structure to a dynamic two-element structure. The second element can move along the longitudinal axis while maintaining structural integrity, allowing the inner space to adapt to different capsule sizes without compromising the overall strength and stability of the brewing device.
Solution Approach 2:
Dividing the cup-shaped body into two separate elements allows each element to maintain its structural strength while the relative movement between elements provides adaptability. The first element provides a stable base while the second element adjusts to accommodate different capsule dimensions.
Data Source
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AI summary
A brewing device (1) for producing a beverage from two differently sized capsules (2); the brewing device (1) comprising two parts (3, 4) opposite and mutually movable between an open or loading position of a capsule (2) and a closing or brewing position, one of the two parts (3, 4) of the brewing device (1) being defined by a cup-shaped body (8) formed by a first portion (13) and by a second portion (16) defining between them a seat (AB) designed to receive the capsule (2) during a movement of the cup-shaped body (8) towards said closing position; the second portion (16) being designed to slide with respect to the first portion (13) between a smaller seat position and a larger seat position due to the interaction with the larger capsule (2B) during the movement of the cup-shaped body (8) towards the closing position; and a blocking device (30) being provided to define, in the closing position, a constraint to keep the second portion (16) still only when the second portion (16) is in the normal smaller seat position.