Coffee Maker Logic Module for Low-Power Standby Mode Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fully automatic coffee machines consume significant electrical energy in standby mode due to constant connection to the power supply and operation of the microcontroller, which is not efficiently managed by existing technologies.
Innovation Solution
A digital logic module is introduced that operates under low voltage in standby mode, allowing for signal transmission and control of internal components, enabling the machine to switch between standby and active modes efficiently, reducing power consumption by selectively connecting and disconnecting electrical components from the main power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the microcontroller and electronic switching module remain constantly connected to the power supply to enable immediate response to user inputs, then the responsiveness and reliability of the machine is improved, but the electrical energy consumption in standby mode increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into two distinct parts: a low-power logic module that remains active in standby mode and a full microcontroller that is activated only when needed. The logic module handles basic standby functions and wake-up triggers, while the microcontroller is powered off during standby and activated only upon receiving a wake-up signal, thus eliminating unnecessary power consumption while maintaining responsiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions between different operational states periodically: during standby mode, only the logic module operates at low power; when a wake-up event occurs (user input or system command), the microcontroller is activated temporarily to handle the brewing operation, then returns to standby state. This periodic activation based on events rather than continuous operation reduces energy consumption while maintaining system responsiveness.
2Speed
If all electrical components remain connected to the power supply during standby mode, then the machine can immediately start brewing when needed, but the power consumption remains high at 300-500 mW
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical components are segmented into critical standby components (logic module, display, control buttons) that remain powered, and non-critical components (heating element, pump, motor) that are powered off during standby. This segmentation allows the machine to maintain immediate responsiveness for user inputs while eliminating power consumption of components that only need to operate during active brewing.
Solution Approach 2:
The logic module performs preliminary actions during standby mode by monitoring for wake-up signals and preparing the system for activation. When a wake-up event occurs, the logic module quickly activates the microcontroller and necessary components, enabling fast startup without requiring all components to remain continuously powered. This preliminary monitoring and selective activation reduces standby power while maintaining quick response capability.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The invention relates to a preparation machine for hot beverages or liquid foodstuffs for household purposes, in particular a fully automatic coffee machine, comprising a logic module (1) which is or can be connected to internal and/or external signal transmitters which can input signals into the logic module (1), which is connected to a control circuit for controlling internal components of the preparation machine, wherein the logic module (1) generates an output signal from the input signals based on an internal logic, by means of which the control circuit can be activated or deactivated, which corresponds to a switch between a standby mode with at least an operating voltage on the logic module (1) and an active mode with an additional control circuit which is also at least an operating voltage.