Capsule system with recognition means and adaptable opening and injection mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation devices are unable to provide optimal injection and extraction parameters for capsules of different configurations, such as varying packaging material, size, filling degree, compaction, and granulometry, leading to suboptimal beverage preparation.
Innovation Solution
A beverage preparation device with an injection module featuring first and second enclosing members that can be adjusted to different positions based on information read from the capsule, allowing for optimal engagement and liquid injection regardless of capsule variations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the relative position of enclosing members is predefined according to a standard configuration, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot provide optimal injection and extraction parameters for different capsule configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability of the first enclosing member's position relative to the second enclosing member. The device can assume multiple different enclosing positions (first, second, and third positions) by moving the first enclosing member along the injection axis, allowing adaptation to various capsule types, sizes, and configurations while maintaining a relatively simple overall device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positional parameter of the first enclosing member along the injection axis to adapt to different capsule configurations. By adjusting the distance and relative position between the first and second enclosing members, the device can optimize injection and extraction parameters for different capsule types without fundamentally redesigning the entire device structure.
2Force
If the upper enclosing member exerts too much force on the capsule, then the outlet face opens early, but this results in non-optimal pressure profile and overcompaction of ingredients
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the position of the first enclosing member to control the force exerted on the capsule. By positioning the first enclosing member at an optimal distance from the second enclosing member, the device applies appropriate force to open the capsule inlet face without causing premature outlet face opening or overcompaction, ensuring optimal pressure profile and beverage quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary positioning of the first enclosing member before the injection process begins. The device assumes a first enclosing position that allows proper engagement with the capsule inlet face, ensuring that the capsule is correctly positioned and the inlet face is properly opened before liquid injection starts, preventing force-related preparation quality issues.
3Force
If the upper enclosing member does not properly contact the inlet face or exerts too little force, then the inlet face is only partially pierced, but this results in loss of extraction yield and crema
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the position of the first enclosing member to ensure optimal contact force with the capsule inlet face. By moving the first enclosing member to the correct position along the injection axis, the device applies sufficient force to properly pierce and open the inlet face, ensuring complete engagement and optimal liquid distribution for high extraction yield and crema quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a control system that can detect and respond to capsule positioning and opening status. The control means monitor the engagement between the first enclosing member and the capsule inlet face, adjusting the position and force applied to ensure proper opening, thereby preventing partial piercing and ensuring optimal extraction yield and crema formation.
Data Source
AI summary
A beverage preparation device prepares a beverage upon interaction of ingredients provided in a capsule with liquid supplied thereto. The device includes an injection module containing a first enclosing member and a cooperating second enclosing member designed for being moved relatively to each other. The first enclosing member is equipped with capsule opening and injection means for opening a first inlet face of a capsule and injecting liquid into the capsule. The first and second enclosing members are designed for being brought into at least a first capsule insertion position for inserting a capsule between the enclosing members and a second capsule enclosing position in which the opening and injection means engage the liquid inlet face of the capsule. The device further includes control means designed for setting at least the capsule enclosing position based on information read from the capsule and/or based on information provided by a user input.