Capsule Receptacle with Serial Actuation for Multisize Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage machines face challenges in reliably handling capsules of different sizes due to complex mechanical principles and the risk of improper alignment, which can lead to damage and inefficient brewing processes.
Innovation Solution
A capsule handling device with a movable second part and adjustable extraction chamber dimensions, actuated by a single motor or handle, allows for easy insertion and extraction of capsules of varying sizes, ensuring proper alignment and sealing without excessive manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple movable parts are used for capsule extraction, then the extraction function is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple extraction functions into a single movable part (the piston). This single component performs both the extraction of the capsule and the compression of the beverage, eliminating the need for separate movable parts and simplifying the mechanical principle while maintaining extraction reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The piston is designed as a multi-functional component that serves multiple purposes: it extracts the capsule from the capsule holder, compresses the beverage within the capsule, and seals the extraction chamber. This universal component approach reduces device complexity while achieving reliable extraction
2Manufacturing precision
If the capsule positioning is manual, then the device simplicity is maintained, but the positioning precision and sealing quality deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device includes guide members that preliminarily position the capsule in the correct orientation and location before the extraction process begins. This preliminary positioning action ensures that the capsule is properly aligned with the piston and sealing surfaces, achieving precise positioning without complex active control mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule itself serves as a positioning element through its geometric features (such as the rim and base shape) that naturally guide it into the correct position within the extraction chamber. The capsule's own structure enables self-positioning, eliminating the need for additional positioning mechanisms
3Adaptability or versatility
If the extraction chamber dimensions are fixed, then the device simplicity is maintained, but the adaptability to different capsule sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction chamber dimensions are made dynamic through the movable piston that can adjust its position to accommodate different capsule sizes. The piston's movement creates variable chamber volumes, allowing the same extraction chamber to adapt to small, medium, and large capsules without requiring multiple fixed-size chambers or complex adjustment mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The extraction chamber volume parameter is changed by moving the piston to different positions. This parameter change allows the chamber to accommodate capsules of different sizes while maintaining the same physical chamber structure, achieving versatility without increasing device complexity
4Productivity
If rapid capsule loading is implemented, then the productivity increases, but the positioning accuracy and sealing quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The guide members perform preliminary positioning of the capsule during the rapid insertion process. This preliminary action occurs automatically as the capsule is inserted, ensuring correct positioning before the piston engages, thus maintaining positioning accuracy while enabling rapid loading
Solution Approach 2:
The design allows the capsule insertion process to rush through quickly by using gravity and guide members that automatically orient and position the capsule during insertion. The critical positioning functions are skipped over by the capsule's own geometric features rather than requiring slow, controlled manipulation
Data Source
AI summary
A machine (1) comprises a frame (1′) and a capsule handling device (1″) mounted in and/or on the frame (1′). The device (1″) has a first part (10) and a second part (20) that is movable relatively to the frame (1′) from a transfer position for inserting and/or removing said capsule (2a,2b) to an extraction position for extracting such capsule and vice versa. The second part (20) comprising: a capsule receptacle (21) delimiting a cavity (21′) for receiving such capsule (2a,2b) and for forming in the extraction position an extraction chamber (21″) with the first part (10); and a first portion (21a) and a second portion (21b) that are relatively movable between a first relative position and a second relative position to change at least one dimension (21da,21db,21ha,21hb) of the cavity (21′) and of the extraction chamber (21″). The device (1″) further comprises an actuator (30,300) connected to the second part (20) for driving the movable second part (20) between the transfer position and the extraction position. The actuator (30,300) is further connected to the first and/or second portions (21a,21b) of the second part (20) to relatively move the first and second portions (21a,21b) between their first and second relative positions.