Coffee machine and related method for controlling it
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coffee machines complicate the activation of secondary functions, making it difficult for users to remember and access these functions, especially after a prolonged period of non-use.
Innovation Solution
A coffee machine with a touch-sensitive user interface that allows command activation through swipe gestures and sequences on a touchscreen keypad, enabling intuitive access to all functions, including secondary ones like descaling, by associating specific symbols with machine functions and validating inputs based on predetermined criteria.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If secondary functions are activated by simultaneously pressing multiple keys or holding keys for extended periods, then the user interface remains simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users find it difficult to activate and remember these functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic key functionality where keys can operate in multiple modes: normal single-key press for primary functions, simultaneous multi-key press for secondary functions, and extended hold for tertiary functions. This dynamic behavior allows the same physical keys to provide different functions based on the pressing pattern, resolving the contradiction between interface simplicity and operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
Each key on the keypad is designed to serve multiple functions depending on how it is pressed. A single key can trigger a primary function when pressed normally, activate a secondary function when pressed simultaneously with other keys, or initiate a tertiary function when held for an extended period. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate buttons for different operation modes.
2Device complexity
If secondary functions are hidden behind complex activation sequences, then the user interface remains simplified, but the loss of information increases as users cannot easily recall the correct activation commands
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides immediate visual feedback on the display when keys are pressed in specific patterns. When users press multiple keys simultaneously or hold a key for an extended period, the display shows the corresponding function that will be activated, allowing users to see and remember the activation sequence. This feedback mechanism reduces information loss by making the activation commands visible and learnable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares and displays information about secondary and tertiary functions in advance, showing users what function will be activated before they complete the activation sequence. This preliminary information presentation helps users remember the correct activation commands by associating them with visual cues displayed on the screen.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The coffee machine comprises an electronic controller connected to a user interface, which, in turn, comprises an input unit that receives the input commands from a user, the input unit having a surface (1) that is touch-sensitive and/or sensitive to swipe gestures with a finger, the input unit also being configured for the acquisition of commands in the form of symbols (2) defined by sequences of points (n1, n2,...ni) of the sensitive surface (1) that can be selected by touching and/or swiping the sensitive surface (1) with a finger, the controller having a comparator configured to identify an acquired symbol (2) by comparing it with an archive of symbols (2) present in a memory of the machine and to activate the machine function command corresponding to the identified symbol (2).