Coffee Capsule Loading Screw for Compact Infusor Feed
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee machines with rotating drum loaders are bulky and inefficient in space usage, as they require significant vertical height and horizontal space, making them unsuitable for placement in areas with limited shelving or cupboards due to the geometric constraints of the rotating drum.
Innovation Solution
A coffee machine with a selective loading device featuring a horizontal advancement line and conveyor screw mechanism, where capsules are transported in a straight direction using a motorized conveyor screw and gravitational fall, optimizing space usage and allowing for flexible placement in restricted spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a rotating drum loader is used to support and transport capsules, then capsule loading functionality is achieved, but the vertical height and overall size of the coffee machine increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a vertical rotating drum mechanism to a horizontal linear advancement system. The advancement line moves capsules horizontally from the loading position to the infusor, eliminating the need for vertical stacking and rotation. This dimensional change allows the machine to fit under shelves and cupboards while maintaining full capsule loading functionality.
2Ease of operation
If a rotating drum with circular plan shape is used, then capsule storage and loading is enabled, but considerable space is wasted above the upper base due to the mismatch between circular and quadrangular shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the circular rotating drum with a linear advancement system that extends horizontally across the available space. This allows the quadrangular upper base area to be fully utilized, eliminating the wasted corner spaces that occur when a circular drum is inscribed within a quadrangular footprint.
3Extent of automation
If a rotating drum loader is used, then automated capsule delivery is achieved, but large free spaces must be set aside to accommodate the wide movement of parts, increasing overall machine size
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the radial movement pattern of a rotating drum with a linear horizontal movement along an advancement line. This constrains the movement to a narrow corridor space rather than requiring a large circular area, significantly reducing the overall machine volume while maintaining automated delivery functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention divides the capsule loading path into discrete segments along the advancement line, with capsules being transported one at a time or in small groups. This segmentation allows for a compact mechanism that doesn't require the large free spaces needed for rotating drum operation, while still achieving automated delivery.
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 enables a compact coffee machine design that minimizes vertical height, ensuring efficient space occupation and reliable capsule loading, allowing for flexible placement in spaces with height limitations, while maintaining a simple and effective operation.
Implementation Method 1
motorised means of automatic transport for the movement by a determined step of at least a stack 6 of capsules 7, 9 towards a release section 8
Implementation Method 2
along which the capsule released from a release section is slidable and/or rollable by gravitational fall towards a section that is vertically aligned to the underlying infusor
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
In the coffee machine (1) exhibiting a selective loading device of a coffee capsule into an infusor, the loading device comprises at least an advancement line (L) exhibiting at least a motorised conveyor screw (11) for step movement of at least a stack (6) of capsules (7, 9) along a support and guide channel (14) of the advancement of the stack (6) of capsules (7, 9) towards a release section (8), and manual command means for enabling the advancing by a step of said at least a stack of capsules (7, 9), the channel (14) exhibiting, at an upper side thereof, windows (16) having a complementary shape to the capsules (7, 9) for introduction thereof with a compulsory orientation suitable for correct use with the conveyor screw (11).