Capsule recycling apparatus and processes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for recycling materials from beverage preparation capsules, such as coffee capsules, are complex and inefficient, particularly when dealing with rigid and semi-rigid envelope materials, and often require multiple movements or tools, making them difficult for users to operate ergonomically.

Innovation Solution

A capsule separation apparatus with a simplified design that uses a linear movement and optional rotational motion around a central axis to separate edible substances from their envelope materials, allowing for manual operation and efficient separation of materials using gravity, featuring a rupture element and sieve element for effective material separation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If existing solutions use multiple movements or tools to separate capsule materials, then separation effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparation effectivenessVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple separation functions into a single integrated apparatus. The envelope opening means and ingredient removal means are integrated into one device that processes capsules in a single operation, eliminating the need for multiple separate tools or sequential movements required by prior art solutions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus is designed to handle multiple capsule types and materials (aluminum, synthetic, composite) with a single universal mechanism. The rupture element and separation means can process different envelope materials and capsule configurations without requiring tool changes or complex adjustments, providing multi-functional capability in a simple device.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If existing solutions use multiple movements or tools to separate capsule materials, then separation effectiveness is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparation effectivenessVSAvoidease of operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The apparatus enables users to easily separate capsule materials through simple insertion and activation without requiring complex manual manipulation. The automated rupture and separation mechanisms perform the separation function with minimal user input, making the process ergonomic and accessible to ordinary users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Ease of operation

If simple linear movement is used to separate capsule materials, then ease of operation is improved, but separation effectiveness may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of operationVSAvoidseparation effectiveness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The apparatus incorporates a rotatable operative part that can rotate around a central axis during the separation process. This rotational movement dynamically enhances the separation effectiveness by providing additional mechanical action on the capsule materials, ensuring complete separation while the user only needs to perform the simple initial insertion and activation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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 apparatus enables efficient and ergonomic separation of materials from coffee capsules, reducing complexity and user effort, while ensuring effective separation of edible substances from envelope materials, including metallic and synthetic components, and flow interaction elements.

Implementation Method 1

a rupture element operatively associated with the placing portion and configured to actuate a mechanical rupture of a top face of the capsule and thereby provide an opening thereof

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 2

allowing for manual operation and efficient separation of materials using gravity

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Implementation Method 3

featuring a rupture element and sieve element for effective material separation

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP4227078A2Capsule recycling apparatus and processes

Publication Date: 2023.08.16 FLAMA - FAB DE LOUCAS E ELECTRODOMESTICOS

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AI summary

The present invention relates to apparatus (1) and processes for recycling materials in capsules (2) of coffee or similar substances, presenting a rigid and/or semi-rigid capsule envelope in at least one envelope material (A) that confines an edible substance (B), and adapted so that can be used in the preparation of aromatic drinks. The apparatus (1) presents an envelope (3) that can collect the envelope material (A) and the edible substance (B) and that can be manipulated between a closed (I) and an open (II) position, whereby a first envelope part (31) can be manipulated for compression of capsule (2) and for rotation thereof relative to a central axis (X1) of apparatus, so that the reliability of opening of the capsule (2) and better separation of its contents is enhanced.