Capsule Retrieval Clamp for Hot Beverage Pod Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage production apparatuses face challenges in safely and efficiently retrieving used capsules, particularly when they are hot, and in configurations where manual intervention is required or complex mechanisms are needed for capsule ejection.
Innovation Solution
A device with a movable cover and/or receptacle that activates extracting and guiding means to seize and glide the capsule along a defined slope, allowing for safe and efficient capsule retrieval without manual intervention, suitable for both centrifugation and other brewing principles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the capsule is removed by hand after opening the cover, then the user can retrieve the capsule, but the user is exposed to hot surfaces and must wait for cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule retrieval system performs the retrieval operation automatically without requiring user intervention. The extracting means engages with the capsule and the guiding means transports it autonomously when the cover opens, eliminating the need for manual removal and exposure to hot surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary extracting means that acts as a mediator between the capsule and the user. This mechanism captures the capsule and transports it through a guiding means to a collection container, preventing direct contact between the user and the hot capsule
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the cover remains closed until the capsule is cooled down, then user safety is improved, but the beverage production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the capsule from the brewing chamber immediately after the beverage is prepared, before the user would need to access it. The extracting means removes the capsule and the guiding means transports it to a collection container, allowing the cover to remain closed for safety while the capsule is already removed and cooling separately
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule retrieval operation is performed preliminarily, automatically triggered when the cover opens. This preliminary extraction and transport action occurs before the user would need to access the brewing chamber, eliminating the need to delay beverage production for cooling
3Adaptability or versatility
If lateral retaining means are used to retain the capsule in an intermediate position, then the capsule can be retained during insertion, but the system is not appropriate for horizontal or low-angle receptacles
Solution Approach 1:
The extracting means is designed to dynamically adapt to different receptacle configurations. When the cover opens, the extracting means engages with the capsule and is guided along a path that accommodates both vertical and horizontal receptacle orientations, eliminating the need for configuration-specific retaining mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The guiding means is designed as a universal mechanism that can handle capsule transport for various receptacle orientations (vertical, horizontal, and intermediate angles). This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate retaining mechanisms for different configurations
4Ease of operation
If a pusher mechanism is used for capsule ejection, then the capsule can be ejected when the extraction head is opened, but the device requires sufficient inclination and a sufficiently long curved pusher
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex curved pusher mechanism with a guiding means that uses gravitational force and geometric guidance. The extracting means engages the capsule and guides it along a predetermined path, eliminating the need for inclined surfaces and long curved pushers
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
Enables safe and efficient capsule retrieval without waiting for cooling, reducing user risk and simplifying the process, while being adaptable to various brewing apparatus configurations.
Implementation Method 1
at least one extracting means for extracting and seizing the capsule when inserted in the receptacle
Implementation Method 2
at least one guiding means coupled to the extracting means and configured to be activated after extraction of the capsule and to guide the capsule in gliding on a slope
Implementation Method 3
guide the capsule in gliding on a slope, said slope being defined by an angular position of the cover relative to a horizontal plane
Data Source
AI summary
The invention aims to provide a device and a method for retrieving efficiently a capsule from a receptacle of a beverage production apparatus. In particular, the device allows retrieving a used capsule in safe conditions and without waiting time. The beverage production apparatus comprises a receptacle (1) with a cover (3) for receiving a capsule (2) containing beverage ingredient. The device comprises capsule extracting and guiding means consisting of a clamp (6) having members (6′, 6″) arranged on each lateral side of the cover (3) of the receptacle. The capsule (2) is provided with a rim (8) around its upper edge which is directed upwards when the capsule is inserted in the receptacle (1). At opening of the cover of the receptacle, the clamp (6) is activated in such a way to position its members under the rim (8) of the capsule which is lifted thanks to a spring (4) at the bottom of the capsule.