Cold Brew Coffee Maker Actuator Mechanism for Plug Assembly Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cold brew coffee devices require operators to carefully remove a stopper from the water tank and quickly place it over a carafe, which can be difficult and cumbersome.
Innovation Solution
A beverage brewing device featuring a water tank, base, filter, plug assembly, and actuator mechanism that allows for easy operation by moving between open and closed positions, with a locking flange to secure the carafe in place, facilitating the flow of brewed coffee into a carafe.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a stopper is used to seal the water tank opening, then water can be contained during steeping, but the operator must carefully remove and quickly place the stopper over the carafe, which is difficult and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented into two parts: a stopper for the water tank opening and a plug assembly for the lower opening. The plug assembly includes a valve mechanism that can be controlled remotely via an actuator mechanism, separating the sealing function from the manual handling operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mechanism serves as an intermediary between the operator and the plug assembly valve. Instead of manually handling the stopper and plug, the operator activates the actuator mechanism which automatically positions the plug assembly and controls the valve, eliminating the cumbersome manual operation.
2Productivity
If manual handling of the stopper and water tank is required, then the brewing process can be completed, but the operation becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The plug assembly and actuator mechanism work together in a self-service manner. Once the operator initiates the brewing process by placing components in position, the actuator mechanism automatically controls the plug assembly valve to manage water flow, reducing continuous manual intervention and improving operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator mechanism introduces dynamic control to the previously static plug assembly. The valve can be automatically opened and closed by the actuator mechanism during different stages of the brewing process, enabling flexible and efficient water flow management without manual intervention.
3Ease of operation
If the plug assembly is always in the open position for easy access, then water can flow freely, but water cannot be contained during steeping
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator mechanism provides feedback control for the plug assembly valve. The system can detect the brewing stage and automatically adjust the valve position - closed during steeping to contain water, and open during dispensing to allow water flow, eliminating the need for manual position changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug assembly valve transitions from a static state to a dynamically controlled state. The actuator mechanism enables the valve to automatically change position based on brewing requirements - remaining closed during steeping to contain water and opening during dispensing to allow flow, improving both containment reliability and operational ease.
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 device simplifies the brewing process by allowing easy operation of the plug assembly and securing the carafe, reducing the difficulty of handling the water tank and ensuring efficient coffee brewing.
Implementation Method 1
The device further includes a spring connected with the arm for biasing the actuator mechanism toward the first operating position and the second operating position
Implementation Method 2
when in the first operating position the plug assembly is in the closed operating position and when in the second operating position the plug assembly is in the open operating position
Data Source
AI summary
A beverage brewing device includes a water tank, a base, a filter, a plug assembly, and an actuator mechanism. The base supports the water tank above a support surface. The plug assembly connects with the water tank and is operable between an open operating position in which water can flow from the water tank through the plug assembly and a closed operating position in which water is precluded from flowing through the plug assembly. The actuator mechanism is movable between a first operating position and a second operating position. The actuator mechanism is cooperates with the plug assembly such that when in the first operating position the plug assembly is in the closed operating position and when in the second operating position the plug assembly is in the open operating position. The actuator mechanism includes an operator actuated surface that is accessible from an exterior of the base.