Capsule Filter Holder for Universal Espresso Machine Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional espresso machines face issues with coffee freshness, tamping difficulties, and limited coffee choice due to their design, while capsule machines restrict brand choice and have sealing issues with high torque requirements.
Innovation Solution
A capsule holder for conventional espresso machines with a filter plate and retaining member that supports different capsule designs, allowing for a secure seal and easy use of capsules, ESE coffee pods, and loose coffee, using a raised lip and perforated surfaces to facilitate water entry and coffee extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hinged lid is used to seal the capsule holder, then the capsule can be retained, but high torque is required which causes rapid wear of sealing surfaces and affects articulation precision
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented from the lid structure. Instead of relying on the lid to provide both structural support and sealing, a separate removable seal element is introduced. This seal can be independently replaced when worn, while the lid mechanism itself remains intact and functional.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal is designed as a consumable component that can be easily replaced. When the seal wears out due to the necessary torque for sealing, it can be quickly swapped without replacing the entire lid or capsule holder assembly, maintaining articulation precision while ensuring continued seal reliability.
2Reliability
If a capsule machine is designed to work with a particular brand of capsule, then sealing is improved, but the choice of coffee is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule holder is designed with universal compatibility to accommodate capsules from different manufacturers while maintaining effective sealing. The standardized interface and adaptable seal design allow the same holder to work with various capsule types without compromising seal quality or coffee choice.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable seal acts as an intermediary between the capsule holder and different capsule brands. It provides the necessary sealing interface for each capsule type while allowing the holder itself to remain brand-agnostic, thus enabling versatility without sacrificing seal reliability.
3Reliability
If ground coffee is used in conventional espresso machines, then coffee freshness is lost after a few days, but using coffee pods requires correct placement to avoid water leakage
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule holder with its standardized interface and retention mechanism allows capsules to self-align and secure themselves upon insertion. The design compensates for minor placement variations, eliminating the need for precise manual positioning while maintaining sealing integrity and coffee freshness.
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
Enables the use of capsules in conventional espresso machines, maintaining coffee quality and convenience, while allowing for the use of ESE pods and loose coffee, with a secure seal and reduced wear on sealing surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
water is forced through the coffee at the high pressure generated by the pump to produce the espresso coffee
Implementation Method 2
a seal is provided to ensure that there is a good seal between the exit surface of the capsule and the retaining member
Data Source
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AI summary
A filter holder for an espresso coffee machine comprising a handle (1) and an outer holder (2), which outer holder is adapted to receive a filter plate (8). The filter plate (8) comprises a plurality of upstanding elements such as truncated pyramids adapted to tear, in use, a surface of a coffee capsule. Between the pyramids a plurality of perforations allow passage of coffee from a capsule to a cup. The holder further comprising a retaining member, which retaining member is adapted to retain the capsule in position and to permit water or steam to be applied under pressure to a surface of the capsule remote from the surface adjacent to the filter plate, the water or steam penetrating the capsule surface to reach the coffee in the capsule.