Single-serve capsule for preparing a beverage using a beverage-preparation machine, beverage-preparation system, and method for producing a single-serve capsule
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing single-serve capsules for beverage preparation have structural issues where the lid element is integrally bonded to the flange, leading to potential damage of the identification code and increased difficulty in applying it during production.
Innovation Solution
The single-serve capsule design positions the optically detectable identification code on the side of the flange facing the bottom region or arranges it on an element other than the flange, ensuring it is not damaged during production or use in beverage preparation machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the lid element is integrally bonded to the flange, then the sealing and structural integrity are improved, but the identification code on the flange is damaged or becomes difficult to apply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the identification code application area from the bonding area by positioning the code on the upper side of the flange (away from the lid element bonding zone) or on an alternative element such as the capsule wall or bottom region. This segmentation allows the bonding process to proceed without damaging the code while maintaining sealing integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element or alternative positioning strategy where the identification code is placed on a different surface (capsule wall, bottom region, or upper flange surface) that is not affected by the lid element bonding process. This intermediary approach resolves the conflict between bonding requirements and code application.
2Ease of operation
If the identification code is applied on the flange, then the code is easily accessible for reading, but the code is damaged during the bonding process of the lid element
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of placing the identification code on the conventional lower side of the flange where it is easily readable but vulnerable to damage, the patent inverts the approach by positioning the code on the upper side of the flange or on alternative elements. This inversion protects the code while maintaining accessibility through the transparent or translucent flange material.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or projection of the identification code through the flange material. By positioning the code on the upper side or on an alternative element, the code remains intact and can be read optically through the flange, effectively creating a protected copy that maintains readability while avoiding damage.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the lid element is fastened to the flange, then the capsule structure is stabilized, but subsequent application of the identification code is made more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the identification code to the flange or alternative element before the lid element bonding process. By performing the code application as a preliminary action, the code is already in place and protected when the bonding occurs, eliminating the need for subsequent code application and maintaining structural stability.
Data Source
AI summary
A single-serve capsule for preparing a beverage with a beverage preparation machine, the single-serve capsule having a base element with a cavity for receiving a beverage raw material, and a lid element closing the cavity, the base element comprising a bottom region, an encircling flange at an end opposite the bottom region and a capsule wall extending from the bottom region to the encircling flange, the single-serve capsule has an optically detectable identification code, or a bit code and/or a barcode, either the optically detectable identification code is arranged on a side of the encircling flange facing the bottom region, or the lid element is fastened to the encircling flange.