Coffee Machine Shutoff Circuit With Separated Signal Switch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional automatic coffee machine control circuits face limitations in spatial flexibility due to the size of power switches, restricting the placement of functional blocks for automatic and manual shutoff, and lack efficiency and energy sensitivity in on/off actuation.
Innovation Solution
A control circuit utilizing a signal switch instead of a power switch, allowing miniaturization and spatial separation from the general power switch, with a controller driving the power switch via an electromagnetic relay or solid-state circuit, and incorporating a signal switch and generator for user interface placement, enabling efficient and energy-sensitive on/off actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a power switch is used for manual shutoff function, then the shutoff function can be implemented, but the power switch occupies significant volume and limits installation region choices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the switching function into two separate components: a power switch for automatic shutoff and a signal switch for manual shutoff. This segmentation allows the signal switch to be miniaturized and placed at the user interface, while the power switch can be positioned elsewhere in the machine, resolving the volume and placement constraints
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a controller as an intermediary that receives signals from the signal switch and controls the power switch accordingly. This intermediary enables the separation of the manual shutoff interface (signal switch) from the actual power switching mechanism, allowing flexible placement and miniaturization of the user-facing component
2Adaptability or versatility
If power switches are placed close together for automatic and manual shutoff, then the machine structure is compact, but the choice of installation regions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the shutoff functions into separate power switch and signal switch components controlled by a central controller, the system gains flexibility in component placement. Each component can be positioned in optimal locations throughout the machine rather than being constrained to a single compact area
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves as a universal coordinating element that manages both automatic and manual shutoff functions through a single centralized unit. This multi-functional controller enables distributed placement of input switches while maintaining unified control logic
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 solution provides greater flexibility in placing control components, enhances energy efficiency, and simplifies the on/off actuation process while reducing the physical footprint of the power switch, allowing for more versatile installation and user-friendly operation.
Implementation Method 1
The controller 2 is able to drive the general power switch 1, preferably through an electromagnetic relay 6
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The control circuit for the self shutoff of an automatic machine particularly for the production of coffee, comprises a power line (L1, L2) having a general power switch (1) for the on/off actuation of said coffee machine, a controller (2), in cascade with the general power switch (1), a first signal generator (3) communicating with the controller (2) for sending a first control signal (Vm) of the general power switch (1), and in cascade with a signal switch (4) having a button for its own commutation, a second signal generator (5) communicating with the controller (2) for sending a second control signal (Vr) of the general power switch (1).