Beverage Capsule Rim Code Layout for Reading During Centrifugation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing beverage preparation systems face challenges in reliably and conveniently identifying capsules, particularly when using centrifugal forces for extraction, as existing methods are not adapted for reading codes under these conditions.

Innovation Solution

A capsule design with a code arranged along an arc-shaped or circular path on its circumference, which is repeated for enhanced readability, combined with a beverage preparation device equipped with rotational means and optical or inductive reading systems, allowing for reliable code detection during rotation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a code is placed on the capsule for identification, then the beverage preparation can be controlled according to capsule type, but the code reading becomes unreliable when the capsule rotates during centrifugal extraction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecode reading reliabilityVSAvoidcode detection convenience

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The code is arranged in a circular pattern on the rim flange of the capsule, concentric with the rotation axis. This circular arrangement ensures that during centrifugal rotation, the code remains in a consistent radial position relative to the reading head, allowing reliable detection regardless of the capsule's rotational state

Inventive Principle:

Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

Solution Approach 2:

The capsule's own rotation during centrifugal extraction serves to present the code to the reading head. The code is positioned on the rim flange which naturally rotates with the capsule, eliminating the need for separate code reading mechanisms and allowing the extraction process itself to facilitate identification

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Device complexity

If the code is placed on a single location on the capsule, then the identification system is simple, but the code may be hidden or soiled making reading unreliable

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveidentification system complexityVSAvoidcode readability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The code is specifically positioned on the rim flange at a location optimized for reading - away from the capsule opening where soilage is less likely, and at a radius where it can be easily accessed by the reading head during rotation. This strategic local placement balances simplicity with reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Productivity

If the capsule is rotated at high speed for centrifugal extraction, then beverage extraction efficiency is improved, but code detection becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebeverage extraction efficiencyVSAvoidcode detection accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The code reading is performed during the centrifugal extraction process itself, utilizing the rotation that is already necessary for beverage preparation. The system is designed to detect the code at appropriate phases of the extraction cycle, eliminating the need for separate reading operations that would slow down productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Ensures reliable and efficient retrieval of information from the capsule, reducing preparation time and simplifying the beverage preparation process by ensuring consistent code readability even when partially hidden or soiled.

Implementation Method 1

rotating the receptacle at elevated speed to ensure interaction of liquid with powder while creating a gradient of pressure of liquid in the receptacle; such pressure increasing gradually from the centre towards the periphery of the receptacle

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Implementation Method 2

the code is arranged on the container to be read while the capsule is rotated around an axis of rotation traversing the capsule

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical detection:

Implementation Method 3

one or more shaped or divided areas of metal foil applied to the package body which cause an inductive effect on movement of the package in the machine, which inductive effect can be sensed

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectInductive effect: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS10800600B2Capsule, system and method for preparing a beverage by centrifugation

Publication Date: 2020.10.13 SOCIETE DES PRODUITS NESTLE SA

AI summary

Capsule for the preparation of a beverage comprising a container and a beverage ingredient contained therein, wherein the container comprises a code (65) adapted for being identified or read by external reading means (62), wherein the code is arranged on the container to be read while the capsule is rotated around an axis of rotation traversing the capsule.