Coffee filter

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing coffee filters fail to effectively separate coffee grounds or tea particles from liquid, allowing larger particles to pass through and not providing a clear view of the filtered liquid level, which can lead to suboptimal brewing and user inconvenience.

Innovation Solution

A filter assembly with a cylindrical filter member having perforations that allow liquid to pass while retaining particles larger than a predetermined size, integrated with a receptacle and flange for secure positioning on a container, and a bayonet-style connection for easy assembly and cleaning, allowing visibility of the filtered liquid level.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If existing coffee filters are used, then the filtering process is simple, but larger coffee grounds or tea particles pass through the filter

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveparticle separation precisionVSAvoidfilter structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter assembly is divided into multiple functional segments: a receptacle for holding particles, a filter member with selective perforations for size-based separation, and a flange for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve effective particle separation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The filter member features non-uniform perforation distribution with different aperture sizes in different regions. Larger perforations are strategically placed to allow liquid flow while smaller perforations provide finer particle retention, creating local quality variations that optimize both filtration effectiveness and liquid permeability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Loss of information

If a standard filter is used, then the structure is simple, but the liquid level cannot be viewed clearly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveliquid level visibilityVSAvoidassembly structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The flange component serves multiple functions simultaneously: it positions the filter assembly on the container rim, provides structural support, and incorporates transparent or translucent regions that enable visual monitoring of the liquid level. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate viewing windows or indicators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The flange incorporates transparent or translucent material regions that allow light transmission, enabling users to visually detect the liquid level through the filter assembly structure itself without requiring additional indicators or changing the fundamental design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

3Ease of operation

If a fixed filter design is used, then manufacturing is simple, but cleaning and assembly are difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly and cleaning easeVSAvoidmanufacturing simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The filter assembly is designed as separable components (receptacle, filter member, flange) that can be easily disassembled and reassembled. The bayonet-style connection provides a simple mechanical interface that enables quick assembly and disassembly without requiring tools or complex fastening mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The bayonet-style connection allows the filter assembly to be dynamically assembled and disassembled through rotational motion, providing ease of operation for cleaning and maintenance while maintaining a secure fixed position during use. This dynamic connection mechanism balances manufacturing simplicity with operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Effectively filters coffee or tea, preventing larger particles from entering the container while allowing smaller ones to pass, and provides visibility into the filtered liquid level, enhancing brewing quality and user experience.

Implementation Method 1

a cylindrical filter member (130) having a hollow interior (140) and a plurality of perforations (176) formed therein

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhysical filtration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS20230076101A1Coffee filter

Publication Date: 2023.03.09 PACIFIC MARKET INT LLC

AI summary

A filter assembly that includes a receptacle, filter, and filter holder. The receptacle has an inside surface defining an open-ended first through-channel. The filter is positioned inside the first through-channel and configured to produce a filtered liquid by filtering particulates each larger than a predetermined size from a liquid. The filtered liquid exits the filter through an outlet opening of the filter. The filter holder removably couples the filter to the receptacle. A holding area configured to receive the liquid is defined in the first through-channel above the filter holder and between the filter and the inside surface of the receptacle. The filter holder includes an open-ended second through-channel in fluid communication with the outlet opening and configured to receive the filtered liquid from the outlet opening. The second through-channel is configured to be in fluid communication with an interior of a container and to provide the filtered liquid thereto.