Beverage preparation by stable capsule centrifugation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines using centrifugation for capsule-based beverage preparation face challenges in efficiently handling and processing capsules, leading to suboptimal extraction and potential mechanical stress during rotation.
Innovation Solution
A capsule processing machine with first and second capsule handlers and a handler support device that angularly fixes the capsule, handlers, and support device relative to each other, allowing for stable rotation and centrifugation of the capsule for beverage preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If capsule rotation speed is increased to improve extraction efficiency, then beverage preparation quality improves, but mechanical stress and vibrations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the capsule in a holder that is already angularly fixed to the rotation axis before rotation begins. This preliminary fixation ensures that the capsule is properly aligned and secured in advance, preventing excessive vibrations and mechanical stress that would occur if the capsule were not pre-positioned correctly. The holder is designed to automatically engage and secure the capsule before the centrifugation process starts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a dedicated capsule holder that replicates the optimal positioning geometry for the capsule relative to the rotation axis. By creating this standardized interface (a kind of geometric copy), the system ensures consistent angular fixation that minimizes vibrations regardless of the capsule's contents or slight variations in capsule dimensions.
2Manufacturing precision
If capsule handling mechanisms are made more complex to improve extraction precision, then beverage quality improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the capsule holding function with the rotation support function into a single integrated holder structure. This holder simultaneously provides angular fixation, rotational support, and positioning functions. By combining these functions into one component rather than using separate mechanisms for each function, the system achieves precise extraction without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule holder is designed as a multi-functional component that serves multiple purposes: it holds the capsule, fixes it angularly to the rotation axis, supports it during rotation, and facilitates its insertion and removal. This universal design eliminates the need for separate specialized mechanisms for each function, maintaining simplicity while achieving precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If angular fixation system is added to stabilize capsule during rotation, then vibrations are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an equipotential condition by designing the capsule holder to perfectly match the rotational motion profile. The holder is angularly fixed to the rotation axis, meaning it rotates in perfect synchrony with the capsule throughout the entire centrifugation process. This eliminates relative motion and vibrations without requiring complex active control systems or multiple fixation points.
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 machine effectively minimizes stress and vibrations during centrifugation, improving the extraction efficiency of beverage ingredients and reducing wear on machine components, while ensuring precise control over the capsule processing.
Implementation Method 1
rotating the capsule at sufficient speed to ensure interaction of the liquid with the ingredient while creating a gradient of pressure of liquid in the capsule. Such pressure increases gradually from the centre towards the periphery of the capsule
Implementation Method 2
creating a gradient of pressure of liquid in the capsule. Such pressure increases gradually from the centre towards the periphery of the capsule. As liquid traverses the ingredient, e.g. coffee bed, extraction of the ingredient, e.g. coffee compounds, takes place and a liquid extract is obtained that flows out at the periphery of the capsule
Data Source
AI summary
A capsule processing machine (1) is configured for preparing a beverage from a capsule (5) having a body containing an ingredient by circulating a liquid into such capsule (5) and centrifugally driving such capsule (5). The machine (1) has a first capsule handler (10) and a second capsule handler (20) that are movable one relative to the other from: a capsule transfer configuration for receiving/releasing the capsule (5); to a capsule processing configuration for centrifuging the capsule (5) about a processing axis (30′). The machine (1) has a handler support device (30) for supporting the first and second capsule handlers (10,20) and a machine frame and/or housing (40) which is stationary during centrifugation. The handler support device (30) is configured to be and remain angularly fixed relative to the first and second capsule handlers (10,20) and to rotate therewith about the processing axis (30′) when the first and second capsule handlers (10,20) are rotated for centrifugation.