Support and capsule for preparing a beverage by centrifugation, system and method for preparing a beverage by centrifugation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines face challenges in reliably and conveniently reading information from capsules due to limited space and harsh environments, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of beverage preparation.
Innovation Solution
A support with sequentially readable symbols is integrated into the capsule, allowing for improved data storage and retrieval by positioning the symbols along the circumference or rim of the capsule, enabling reliable reading even in harsh conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If magnetic strips or inductive areas are applied to the capsule body for identification, then capsule recognition is enabled, but the reading reliability deteriorates in harsh environments with limited space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex magnetic or inductive identification systems with a simpler optical or electromagnetic reading system that detects symbols on the capsule rim. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining or improving reading reliability in centrifugal extraction environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule itself serves as the identification carrier with symbols directly applied to its rim, eliminating the need for separate magnetic strips or inductive components. The capsule structure provides its own identification function, reducing overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If barcodes are read during chamber closing, then capsule identification is achieved, but reading accuracy deteriorates due to motion and positioning variability
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule is oriented and positioned with the symbol sequence on its rim before insertion into the extraction chamber. This preliminary positioning ensures the symbols are in the correct orientation for reading during centrifugal rotation, eliminating the need for reading during chamber closing and extending the available reading time window.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static barcode reading during chamber closing to dynamic symbol reading during centrifugal rotation. The symbols are designed to be readable during the rotational motion, utilizing the dynamic state of the capsule rather than requiring it to be stationary.
3Adaptability or versatility
If concentric barcodes are used on rotating capsules, then identification during rotation is enabled, but reading precision deteriorates in centrifugal extraction systems
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using concentric barcodes that require reading from the center outward during rotation, the patent inverts the approach by placing linear symbol sequences on the outer rim of the capsule. This allows the reading system to detect symbols as they pass by during centrifugal rotation, improving reading precision while maintaining rotation compatibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A capsule for preparation of a beverage can include a container and a beverage ingredient contained therein. The container can include at least one support having a section on which a plurality of sequences of symbols is represented; each symbol is sequentially readable, by a reading arrangement of an external device, while the capsule is rotated along an axis of rotation. Each sequence can code a set of information related to the capsule, and at least one of the sequences can include symbols defining a preamble sequence that allows determination of a position of the symbols in the associated sequence coding the set of information related to the capsule. The container can include a cup-shaped body having a flange-like rim and a lid connected to the body, the support can be on a bottom of the rim, and the bottom of the rim can be opposed to the lid.