Capsule Gripper Jaw Mechanism for Reliable Infusion Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion apparatuses for beverage preparation machines, such as those described in WO-2006/005736-A and EP 1 721 553-A, face challenges in securely and efficiently releasing and evacuating used capsules, with prior solutions like automatic engagement mechanisms being complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus incorporates a gripper with pivotal jaws and a kinematic motion means, including a pusher member and a control lever, that allows for controlled opening and closure of the infusion chamber, ensuring secure capsule retention and reliable release through a combination of mechanical and spring-actuated mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automatic engagement mechanisms are used for jaw control, then capsule retention reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw assembly automatically engages and disengages through its own mechanical movement during the piston's reciprocating motion. The jaw control means utilizes the piston's own motion to open and close the jaws without requiring separate actuation systems, achieving reliable capsule retention while maintaining mechanical simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The piston serves multiple functions: it moves the jaw assembly for capsule engagement, closes the infusion chamber, and drives the infusion process. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate automatic engagement mechanisms, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable capsule retention through coordinated mechanical action.
2Reliability
If separate jaw control means is added to existing gripper designs, then capsule release reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw control means is merged with the existing piston assembly. The same piston that drives the gripper also controls jaw opening and closing through integrated mechanical linkages. This combination ensures reliable capsule release through coordinated motion while avoiding the addition of separate control systems that would increase device complexity.
3Extent of automation
If complex automatic engagement mechanisms are implemented, then operational automation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves operational automation through self-service mechanical action. The piston's reciprocating motion automatically controls jaw engagement, chamber closure, and infusion initiation without requiring complex external control systems. This approach provides adequate automation for capsule processing while maintaining manufacturing simplicity and cost-effectiveness through straightforward mechanical design.
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 design enables reliable and economical secure retention and release of capsules, facilitating efficient beverage preparation and capsule disposal, improving the operational simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the infusion process.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member (43) interconnecting the jaws (41) and tending to maintain them in an adjacent state
Implementation Method 2
Associated with the opening member (52) is a fairly rigid reaction spring (53) tending to keep it in an advanced position
Implementation Method 3
The feeler protuberances (41d) of the jaws (41) are engageable with the slanted surfaces (52a) of the opening member (52) so as, on further movement of the movable assembly (14) towards the cooperating assembly (15), to effect opening out of the jaws (41)
Data Source
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AI summary
The apparatus comprises a support and guide structure with a movable assembly and a cooperating assembly. The movable assembly couples with the cooperating assembly to define an infusion chamber. Between the two assemblies is provided a gripper type holding device, with a pair of movable jaws for receiving and retaining a capsule. The jaws opened by means for releasing the capsule when the movable assembly approaches the closing position. The opening has associated reaction means to keep it in an advanced position, when the movable assembly approaches the closing position. In an end phase of the displacement of the movable assembly the gripper type holding device urges the opening member towards a rearward position, and in an initial phase of the return displacement of the movable assembly the opening member maintains the gripper type holding device with the jaws wide open to release the capsule.