Coffee machine and milk texturing device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Coffee machines for domestic use face challenges in integrating a steam module due to size constraints and heat interference, leading to inconsistent milk texturing and potential mess from drip trays. Existing milk frothing devices struggle with correct positioning of the steam wand and temperature sensing, affecting the quality of milk-based beverages.

Innovation Solution

A coffee machine design with a detachable cup support and drip tray assembly that allows for horizontal movement, incorporating a steam module with a support surface for precise milk jug positioning and temperature sensing, and a dual drip tray system to minimize spillage and facilitate easy cleaning.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a steam module is integrated into a compact coffee machine, then milk texturing capability is improved, but heat interference with coffee extraction and size constraints worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemilk texturing capabilityVSAvoidheat interference

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The coffee machine is divided into separate functional modules: a coffee extraction module and a milk texturing module with steam wand. This segmentation allows each module to operate independently with optimized thermal management, reducing heat interference between functions while maintaining compact overall design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The steam module and drip tray assembly are positioned in the vertical dimension beneath the coffee dispensing spout, rather than occupying horizontal space. This vertical arrangement enables compact footprint on the benchtop while accommodating both hot functions (coffee extraction and steam generation) without excessive heat interference.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Length of stationary object

If the drip tray height is reduced to accommodate height requirements for storage under cupboards, then compactness is improved, but spillage and mess worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemachine heightVSAvoidspillage

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of stationary objectVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The drip tray assembly incorporates a movable cup support platform that can be adjusted horizontally relative to the supporting body. This dynamic positioning allows the system to adapt to different cup sizes and positions, preventing spillage even with reduced tray height, while maintaining compact overall dimensions for storage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the steam wand positioning is not precisely controlled, then ease of operation is improved, but milk texturing consistency worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvejug placement simplicityVSAvoidmilk texturing consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides self-aligning features where the drip tray assembly and cup support platform automatically guide the milk jug into the correct position relative to the steam wand. This self-service positioning mechanism ensures consistent milk texturing without requiring precise manual placement by the user, maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The design replaces complex mechanical positioning mechanisms with a simplified horizontal movement system. The movable cup support platform on the drip tray assembly allows easy sliding adjustment, substituting intricate alignment mechanisms with straightforward horizontal repositioning that maintains both ease of operation and texturing consistency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

The design enhances milk texturing consistency, reduces mess and spillage, and allows for compact and convenient storage of the coffee machine, ensuring optimal coffee and milk quality while maintaining a compact footprint.

Implementation Method 1

milk texturing, which is commonly referred to as 'milk frothing ', this process typically involves injecting steam into the milk to create a foam layer on top. The steam also heats the milk to a temperature suitable for various milk-based coffee beverages

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSteam injection: Phase Change

Implementation Method 2

the support surface of the drip tray assembly is configured to receive the platform such that the support surface and the platform are substantially co-planar

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectGravitational support: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS20240245255A1Coffee machine and milk texturing device

Publication Date: 2024.07.25 BREVILLE HLDG PTY LTD

AI summary

A coffee machine comprising: a coffee extraction module with a dispensing spout and a supporting body; a platform for detachable connection with the supporting body at a plurality of different spacings beneath the dispensing spout; and a drip tray assembly positionable beneath the dispensing spout, the drip tray assembly having a support surface, wherein the support surface of the drip tray assembly is configured to receive the platform such that the support surface and the platform are substantially co-planar, and wherein the platform and the drip tray assembly are configured to engage and disengage from the supporting body via horizontal relative movement.