Coffee Filter Holder Locking for Precise Brewing Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee machines require cumbersome steps to remove and reinsert the filter holder, and often lack precise positioning mechanisms, leading to potential incorrect placement and operational issues.
Innovation Solution
A coffee machine design featuring a removably attached filter holder with a locking mechanism, including pre-tensioned latches and an activation element, ensures easy installation and precise positioning, preventing undesirable movement during brewing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the filter holder is made removable for easy filter replacement, then ease of operation is improved, but positioning precision and operational reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
A bracket is introduced as an intermediary component between the filter holder and the coffee machine body. The bracket provides predefined positioning features that guide the filter holder into the correct position during insertion, ensuring precise positioning while maintaining easy removability. The bracket acts as a mediator that translates the user's simple insertion action into precise positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual positioning task is replaced by a mechanical positioning system consisting of guide elements, recesses, and latches. Instead of relying on user skill to position the filter holder correctly, the mechanical system automatically ensures precise positioning through complementary geometric features that guide and secure the filter holder in the correct location.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to ensure precise positioning, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into simple, discrete components: a latch element and a corresponding recess. Rather than a complex integrated locking system, the function is divided into separate simple parts that work together - the latch provides the locking action while the recess provides the positioning reference. This segmentation keeps individual components simple while achieving reliable locking.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-activating through spring pre-tensioning. The spring-loaded latch automatically engages with the recess when the filter holder is inserted, providing secure locking without requiring additional actuators, motors, or complex control systems. The mechanism serves itself through elastic energy storage and release.
3Ease of operation
If pre-tensioned latches are used for easy locking, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is merged directly into the latch component, forming an integrated spring-loaded latch assembly. Rather than being separate parts requiring complex assembly, the spring and latch are combined into a single manufacturable unit. This merging simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining the easy locking operation achieved through spring pre-tensioning.
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
Facilitates easy and secure removal and installation of the filter holder, ensuring precise positioning and preventing incorrect activations, thereby enhancing operational safety and user convenience.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one latch in this case can be pre-tensioned via a spring into the locked position, so that the latch can be locked in place easily when the filter holder is installed on the bracket
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for a coffee machine includes a filter holder adapted to receive a filter to be filled with ground coffee. The filter holder includes an outlet below which a container to be filled with coffee may be positioned. A bracket is arranged on the coffee machine. The bracket and coffee holder are constructed so that the filter holder is removably attached to the bracket. A locking mechanism is attached to the bracket to lock the filter holder in a locked position when the container to be filled with coffee is arranged below the outlet.