Capsule Programming Connector for Custom Beverage Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage production systems face challenges in providing cost-effective and independent identification means for capsules, which are complex and costly to manufacture, and consumers desire customizable brewing parameters for optimal flavor control.
Innovation Solution
A beverage production parameter programming connector that can be mechanically associated with capsules, featuring an identification member for sensing by beverage production machines, allowing consumers to customize brewing parameters like temperature, cup size, and brewing time without requiring additional tools or complex manufacturing processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If identification means are directly associated to each capsule during manufacturing, then capsule identification is enabled, but the manufacturing process becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system is segmented into two independent parts: the capsule itself and a separate programming connector. The connector, rather than being integrated into the capsule, is a standalone component that can be manufactured separately and attached to the capsule. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured using simpler, more cost-effective processes while maintaining reliable identification functionality when assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming connector acts as an intermediary between the capsule and the beverage production machine's sensing means. Instead of embedding identification means directly into the capsule, the connector serves as a mediator that carries the identification information and interfaces with the machine's sensing system, thereby enabling capsule identification without complicating the capsule manufacturing process.
2Ease of operation
If consumers use predefined operational parameters of the beverage production system, then beverage preparation is simple, but consumers cannot customize brewing parameters for optimal flavor
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static, predefined operational parameters to dynamic, customizable parameters. The programming connector enables consumers to select different identification members that correspond to various brewing parameter sets (temperature, pressure, flow rate, time), allowing the beverage preparation system to adapt dynamically to consumer preferences while maintaining ease of operation through simple connector attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables parameter changes by providing consumers with multiple programming connectors, each having an identification member representing different beverage production parameters. Consumers can change the brewing parameters by simply replacing the programming connector or selecting different identification members, thereby customizing temperature, pressure, flow rate, and time parameters without complicating the operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If connectors are designed for mixing fluid and beverage ingredient inside the connector body, then brewing function is integrated, but the connector must be discarded after use for hygienic reasons
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into functional zones: an external identification member for parameter programming and an internal structure for fluid passage without mixing. The design separates the identification function from the fluid handling function, allowing the connector to be reused while maintaining hygienic standards, as the connector body itself does not come into contact with and mix the beverage ingredients.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention inverts the disposable concept: instead of making the entire connector disposable due to hygiene concerns, only the capsule is discarded after use, while the programming connector is designed for reuse. The connector's identification member provides the necessary brewing information without requiring the connector body to be discarded, thereby reducing waste while maintaining hygiene.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3d
Figure 3e~4b
AI summary
The present invention proposes a kit, comprising: - at least a capsule(10) for insertion in a beverage production machine and containing beverage ingredients, the capsule having a cup-like base body (10b) comprising an outlet face (10c), and - one or more beverage production parameter programming connector(s) (1) comprising an identification member (2) placedon a first side (1a) of the connector designed for representing individual information as to beverage production parameters upon mechanical contact by sensing means (8, 18) of a beverage production machine (100), said side being opposite to the second connector side (1b) designed for connection to the outlet face (10c) of the capsule, wherein either the capsule(s) (10) or the connector(s) (1)or the both is provided with means for mechanically associating the connector(1) to the capsule (10) by the consumer, preferably without using tools.