Code arrangement and container of system for preparing a beverage or foodstuff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage and foodstuff preparation systems face limitations in encoding complex preparation information due to low encoding density, visibility, and aesthetic concerns of existing codes on containers.
Innovation Solution
A container with a tessellating code arrangement that encodes distinct phases of the preparation process, featuring separate geometrically separate codes arranged in a repeatable pattern, allowing for high encoding density and reduced visibility, while being cost-effective and readable by standard code readers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a periphery code is arranged on the container flange, then preparation information can be encoded, but the encoding density is limited and the code is highly visible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from arranging codes on the periphery (1D/2D surface) to embedding codes within the recesses of the container flange structure (3D spatial integration). This dimensional change allows codes to be positioned in previously unused spatial niches, increasing encoding density while reducing visual prominence from above
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests the code arrangement within the existing flange recess structure. Multiple codes are embedded within the recesses, utilizing the three-dimensional space created by the flange geometry. This nesting approach maximizes information encoding within the limited container surface area while maintaining aesthetic appearance
2Adaptability or versatility
If more preparation information is encoded, then complex preparation processes can be controlled, but the code becomes more complex and harder to read
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the encoding task into multiple separate codes, with each code contained within an individual flange recess. Each code can be independently designed and read, allowing complex preparation information to be segmented into manageable units. The code reader sequentially reads multiple codes to reconstruct the complete preparation profile
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a universal code structure that can encode various types of preparation information (temperature, pressure, time, material type) using the same basic code format. This multi-functional code design allows a single reading system to handle diverse preparation requirements without requiring different code types or reading mechanisms
3Loss of information
If a 2D barcode is used on the container, then encoding density increases, but it remains highly visible and aesthetically displeasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds 2D barcodes within the three-dimensional recesses of the flange structure. By nesting the codes in these spatial niches, the codes achieve high encoding density while being less visible from above. The recesses provide natural concealment, reducing the aesthetic impact while maintaining full 2D barcode functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different visual characteristics to codes based on their location. Codes in recesses have different visibility and lighting characteristics compared to surface codes, allowing the system to optimize for both readability and aesthetics in different spatial zones
Data Source
AI summary
A container for a beverage or foodstuff preparation machine, the container for containing beverage or foodstuff preparation material and including on a surface thereof an arrangement of separate codes encoding preparation information, whereby each code encodes a distinct phase of a preparation process. Also disclosed is a beverage or foodstuff preparation system including the container and an attachment configured for attachment to an element of the system. Further disclosed is a computer program and non-transitory computer readable medium for use therewith. Also disclosed are methods of producing and using these devices and apparatuses.