Coffee machine with electromagnetic suspension system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee machines lack a stable levitation mechanism for beverage cups, which can lead to tipping and spilling, especially when handling hot beverages, and do not provide an aesthetically appealing floating effect.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an electromagnetic suspension system with an induction coil in the coffee machine and a ferromagnetic core in the cup, along with a stabilization coil to prevent tipping and enhance visual appeal, using a potentiometer and flowmeter for automatic adjustment of the magnetic force based on beverage quantity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electromagnetic suspension system is implemented, then cup levitation is achieved, but cup stability is insufficient leading to tipping and spilling
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic suspension system is segmented into two distinct coils: a first electromagnetic coil for generating the primary magnetic field that levitates the cup, and a second electromagnetic coil for generating a stabilizing magnetic field that prevents tipping. This segmentation allows independent optimization of levitation and stabilization functions, resolving the contradiction between achieving levitation and maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
A ferromagnetic core is introduced as an intermediary element within the cup structure. This core concentrates and enhances the magnetic field interaction between the electromagnetic coils and the cup, providing both levitation force and stabilizing torque. The ferromagnetic core acts as a mediator that transforms the magnetic field into controlled mechanical forces, ensuring stable levitation without tipping.
2Ease of manufacture
If electromagnetic suspension system is implemented, then floating effect is created, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the levitation function and stabilization function into a unified electromagnetic suspension system. Both functions are achieved through electromagnetic fields generated by coils integrated into the coffee machine base, eliminating the need for separate mechanical support structures. This merging reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the aesthetic floating effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical support structures with an electromagnetic field-based suspension system. Instead of using physical contacts, bearings, or mechanical linkages to support the cup, the system uses magnetic fields to provide both levitation and stabilization forces. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components while achieving the desired floating aesthetic effect.
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
Ensures safe and stable preparation of hot beverages by preventing spilling and creates a visually appealing floating effect, enhancing user safety and experience.
Implementation Method 1
The induction coil is powered with an electric current by a power source and the coffee machine is provided with a cup having a ferromagnetic core. The electric current generated by the power source flows through the induction coil and generates a magnetic field around the wire.
Implementation Method 2
The electromagnetic suspension systems are known from the state of the art. The systems use the physical phenomenon of magnetic levitation. In this phenomenon the object is suspended in the air with no physical support but only by the magnetic field which is generated by a magnet or electromagnet.
Implementation Method 3
The cup which is placed at the coffee machine base and in which the beverage is collected is equipped with a ferromagnetic core placed at the bottom edge of the cup. The ferromagnetic core is a ring shape or disc shape element which is integrated into the cup.
Implementation Method 4
The cup is stabilized by an additional stabilization coil which is placed in an upper part of the coffee machine and surrounds the cup. The cup has the tendency to tip over so the stabilization coil prevents the cup against tipping over.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
A coffee machine having an electromagnetic suspension system comprising an induction coil integrated into a body of the coffee machine and powered with an electric current by a power source and a cup whereby the cup is provided with a ferromagnetic core and an additional ferromagnetic core and the coffee machine is provided with a stabilization coil for the cup stabilization. The present invention provides a coffee machine with an electromagnetic system for a cup suspension. The suspension of the cup is a feature which attracts the consumer and creates a positive impression of the appliance.