Capsule Retainer for Filter Disc Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capsule manufacturing processes face challenges in securely positioning and welding a direct-flow-preventing filter disc, leading to inefficiencies in fluid distribution, potential leaks, and flavor deterioration, due to the use of expensive multi-layered discs and complex equipment.
Innovation Solution
A capsule design that uses a flexible, single-layered filter disc with a retainer comprising an outer peripheral ring and radially extending spokes, allowing for mechanical securing without welding, enabling better fluid distribution and preventing fluid or substance from escaping or rising back up.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If welding is used to secure the filter disc to the capsule wall, then the filter disc remains in place reliably, but the process becomes complex, expensive, and vulnerable to defects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical system) with a mechanical retention system consisting of a retainer component that physically holds the filter disc against the capsule wall through friction and geometric constraint, eliminating the need for welding equipment and processes
Solution Approach 2:
The retainer component acts as an intermediary element between the filter disc and the capsule wall, providing a simple mechanical interface that secures the filter disc without requiring direct welding between these components
2Ease of manufacture
If multi-layered filter discs with welding layers are used, then the filter disc can be welded to the capsule wall, but the material cost increases and the disc may stick to the welding die
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single-layered filter disc made from inexpensive materials such as paper or simple plastic, designed as a disposable component that does not require expensive multi-layered construction with specialized welding layers
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing the welding process with a mechanical retention system, the patent eliminates the need for specialized welding layers on the filter disc, thereby reducing material costs while maintaining secure attachment
3Shape
If the filter disc is made flexible and lightweight, then it can conform to the capsule shape, but it becomes difficult to secure in place
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer component serves as an intermediary that provides the necessary mechanical support and securing force for the flexible filter disc, allowing the disc to remain lightweight and conformable while being reliably held in position during the extraction process
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A capsule for containing a substance (C) from which a beverage can be produced, comprises a capsule body (12) with a side wall (18), and a direct-flow-preventing filter disc (14), wherein the direct-flow-preventing filter disc (14) has a circumferential edge zone which is in contact with the side wall (18). A retainer (16) is provided for securing the direct-flow-preventing filter disc (14) in place in the capsule body (12), wherein the direct-flow-preventing filter disc (14) is of a larger diameter than the retainer (16), and wherein said circumferential edge zone of the direct-flow-preventing filter disc (14) is trapped between said retainer (16) and the side wall (18).