Programming Connector for Custom Beverage Capsule 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 beverages like tea, which are not easily adjustable within the predefined settings of these systems.
Innovation Solution
A beverage production parameter programming connector that can be mechanically associated with the outlet face of a capsule, featuring an identification member for sensing by the beverage production machine, allowing consumers to customize parameters such as temperature, cup size, and brewing time without requiring additional tools, and can be used with capsules already equipped with identification means.
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 manufacturing process becomes very complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The identification system is segmented into two independent parts: capsules without integrated identification means, and separate programming connectors that contain the identification means. This segmentation allows capsules to be manufactured simply while identification functionality is provided by the reusable connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The programming connector acts as an intermediary between the capsule and the beverage production machine's sensing means. The connector carries the identification means that mechanically contacts the sensing means, enabling capsule identification without requiring the identification means to be part of the capsule itself.
2Reliability
If individual identification means are provided to each capsule, then capsule identification is enabled, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The programming connector serves multiple functions: it provides identification means for capsule identification, allows consumer customization of beverage production parameters, and can be reused across multiple capsules. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for individual identification means on each capsule.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of embedding unique identification means in each capsule, the system uses a reusable programming connector that can be associated with different capsules. The connector effectively 'copies' the identification functionality across multiple capsule uses without requiring manufacturing of identification means for each individual capsule.
3Ease of operation
If predefined operational parameters are used in beverage production machine, then machine operation is simplified, but consumer customization capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The programming connector introduces dynamic configurability to the beverage production system. Consumers can select from multiple programming connectors with different identification means, each representing different beverage production parameters. This allows the system to adapt to different consumer preferences while maintaining simple machine operation through mechanical contact detection.
Data Source
AI summary
A kit includes at least a capsule for insertion in a beverage production machine and containing beverage ingredients, the capsule having a cup-like base body including an outlet face. The kit includes one or more beverage production parameter programming connector(s) having an identification member placed on a first side of the connector designed for representing individual information as to beverage production parameters upon mechanical contact by sensing means of a beverage production machine, the side being opposite to the second connector side designed for connection to the outlet face of the capsule. Either the capsule(s) or the connector(s) or the both is provided with means for mechanically associating the connector to the capsule by the consumer, preferably without using tools.