Capsule Beverage Machine Loading Assembly for Optical Code Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machines for preparing beverages using capsules are complex, cumbersome, and prone to malfunction due to the need for intricate optical sensor systems and transfer arrangements, which are vulnerable to high temperatures and humidity, making them unreliable and costly.
Innovation Solution
A simplified machine design with a compact structure that uses a single mechanism for reciprocating movement and positions the optical sensor for easy access, eliminating the need for complex optical reading devices and integrating sensors for capsule detection and power management, while protecting the sensor from harsh conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a complex optical sensor system and transfer arrangement are used to read capsule codes and manage capsule movement, then the machine can handle various capsule types with precise detection, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to vulnerability to high temperatures and humidity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the optical sensor from the high-temperature infusion chamber environment and places it in the loading arrangement where capsules are inserted. This separation removes the sensor from the harmful thermal environment while maintaining its detection function during the capsule loading phase, before the chamber is sealed and heated.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical sensor performs capsule code detection during the loading phase, before the infusion process begins. This preliminary detection allows the control system to identify the capsule type and configure appropriate parameters in advance, avoiding the need for sensors to operate during the high-temperature infusion process.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex transfer arrangements with multiple moving parts are used to position the capsule-holder and injector, then precise positioning for injection is achieved, but the device complexity increases and the system becomes more prone to malfunction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the capsule-holder and injector into a single integrated assembly that moves together as one unit. This merging eliminates the need for separate transfer mechanisms for each component, reducing the number of moving parts while maintaining the ability to achieve precise positioning for injection.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation system is designed to perform multiple functions: it positions the capsule-holder during loading, maintains positioning during optical detection, and executes the injection motion. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated mechanisms for each operation, simplifying the overall system.
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
The solution results in a more reliable, compact, and cost-effective machine that can handle a wide range of capsules from different manufacturers with increased precision and reduced power consumption, ensuring efficient and safe operation.
Implementation Method 1
an optical sensor device for detecting characteristic information of the capsule, encoded by means of a dedicated graphic code appearing on the front sealing foil of the capsule itself
Data Source
AI summary
A machine for preparing liquid food products using capsules includes a dispensing assembly, a loading arrangement, an actuation system and a control system, including a processor, a non-volatile memory and an optical sensor device for acquiring characteristic information associated to an end wall of the body of a capsule. The actuation system is prearranged so that movements of the first part and the second part of the infusion chamber take place in a direction generally transverse to a direction of movement of the capsule determined by the insertion guide. The optical sensor device is mounted laterally with respect to the insertion guide. The loading arrangement has first retaining elements, which define an intermediate retention position of the capsule, in such a way that the control system is able to acquire the characteristic information by the optical sensor device when the capsule is in the intermediate position of retention. The first retaining elements can be switched from the respective condition of retention to a respective condition of release of the capsule by applying a force to the capsule.