Beverage preparation by stable capsule centrifugation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines face challenges in efficiently handling and centrifuging capsules due to imperfect alignment and resulting vibrations, which can lead to wear and reduced efficiency during the centrifugation process.
Innovation Solution
A capsule processing machine with a handler support device that maintains angular fixation of first and second capsule handlers relative to each other and a processing axis, minimizing stress and vibrations by securing the capsule and handlers as a block during rotation, using a motor and transmission system to manage the capsule transfer and processing configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the capsule handlers are rotated during centrifugation without angular fixation, then the capsule can be easily transferred and positioned, but vibrations and wear increase due to imperfect alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two operational modes: during transfer operations, the capsule handlers remain independently movable for ease of positioning; during centrifugation, the handlers are angularly fixed together to form a rigid block that rotates as one unit, eliminating vibrations while maintaining operational flexibility
2Reliability
If the capsule handlers are angularly fixed during rotation, then vibrations and wear are reduced, but the complexity of the handler support device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The first and second capsule handlers are angularly fixed together to form a combined rigid structure that rotates as a single block during centrifugation. This merging of the two handlers into one rigid unit eliminates relative movement and vibrations, while the support device provides the necessary angular fixation mechanism
3Ease of operation
If the capsule is held loosely during transfer, then insertion and removal are facilitated, but stress and vibrations increase during centrifugation
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule holding mechanism dynamically adjusts its constraint level: during transfer operations, the capsule is held loosely to facilitate easy insertion and removal; during centrifugation, the angular fixation of the handlers creates a rigid structure that firmly secures the capsule, eliminating stress and vibrations caused by loose holding
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 configuration reduces vibrations and wear, improving the efficiency and stability of the centrifugation process, ensuring consistent and high-quality beverage preparation.
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
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
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.