Rotating Beverage Capsule Code Support for Orientation-Free Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines with centrifugal extraction systems face challenges in reliably reading optical codes on capsules due to harsh environments and limited space, leading to inefficiencies in identifying capsule types and adjusting brewing parameters, especially when capsules are rotating.
Innovation Solution
A capsule with a code support featuring distinct preamble sequences and data sequences that are sequentially readable, allowing for reliable decoding without knowledge of the code's position or orientation, using a method that involves reading symbols separately during capsule rotation and employing error-detecting and error-correcting codes to enhance reading reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a barcode is printed on a small area of the capsule for identification, then the capsule type can be identified, but the code cannot be reliably read when the capsule is rotating at high speed during centrifugal extraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning multiple stationary light sources around the capsule's rotation path before rotation begins. These light sources are arranged to illuminate the entire circumferential path where the code will pass during rotation, ensuring continuous illumination without requiring dynamic tracking or adjustment during high-speed rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a stationary photodetector array that acts as a mediator between the rotating code and the reading system. The photodetector array remains stationary while capturing light reflected from different portions of the rotating code at different times, converting the spatial-temporal pattern into readable signals without requiring mechanical movement.
2Loss of information
If a barcode reader with moving sensing elements or image capture is used, then code information can be read, but the device complexity increases and space requirements are not met in the limited machine environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the code reading function into multiple stationary photodetector elements distributed around the capsule's rotation path. Each photodetector captures information from a specific angular position, and the complete code is reconstructed by combining signals from all segments in temporal sequence, eliminating the need for a single complex moving reader.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning system (moving beams or cameras) with a stationary optical system. Instead of mechanically moving sensors to track the rotating code, the system uses the capsule's own rotation to bring different code portions past fixed photodetectors, substituting mechanical complexity with a simpler stationary arrangement that leverages the existing rotational motion.
3Ease of operation
If the code position and orientation on the rotating capsule are unknown, then the capsule can be freely inserted, but the code cannot be decoded without knowing its starting position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical contrast changes (analogous to color changes) by incorporating a distinctive start marker with a specific reflectivity pattern that differs from the rest of the code. This marker creates a recognizable signal pattern in the photodetector output, allowing the system to automatically identify the code's starting position and orientation during rotation, enabling accurate decoding regardless of initial capsule insertion orientation.
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 solution enables the reliable reading of a large volume of coded information, improving the reliability and efficiency of beverage preparation by allowing for optimal adjustment of brewing parameters and storage of critical information like production data and expiration dates, even in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
Barcode readers or barcode scanners are electronic devices comprising a light source, a lens and a light sensor translating optical impulses into electrical ones
Implementation Method 2
rotating the receptacle at elevated speed to ensure interaction of liquid with powder while creating a gradient of pressure of liquid in the receptacle; such pressure increasing gradually from the centre towards the periphery of the receptacle
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
The invention relates to a code support (60a, 60b) adapted to be associated with or part of a capsule intended for delivering a beverage in a beverage producing device by centrifugation of the capsule. The support comprises a code formed by at least a first sequence of symbols and a second sequence of symbols. The code is represented on the support so that each symbol is sequentially readable by a reading arrangement (100) of an external reading device while the capsule is driven in rotation along an axis of rotation (Z). The first sequence comprises at least one first preamble sequence of symbols, and at least one first data sequence of symbols. The second sequence comprises at least one second preamble sequence of symbols and at least one second data sequence of symbols. The first preamble sequence is distinct from the second preamble sequence.