Cold Brew Coffee System with Pump-Assisted Rapid Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cold-brew coffee systems require specific tube lengths and gravity-assisted filtration, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming, especially when using paper filters, as they restrict the versatility of container sizes and prolong the filtering process.
Innovation Solution
A closure system with a pump and silicone tube assembly that securely connects two containers, allowing for adjustable container heights and enabling rapid filtration of cold-brewed coffee through a micro air pump-assisted flow, reducing filtering time to under 90 seconds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If gravity-assisted filtration is used with paper filters, then filtration can be achieved, but the filtering process becomes time-consuming and container height is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by using air pressure to accelerate the filtration process. A pump introduces air into the upper container, creating pressure that forces coffee extract through the filter into the lower container much faster than gravity alone could achieve, reducing filtering time to under 90 seconds
2Ease of manufacture
If specific tube lengths are required for gravity-assisted filtration, then the system can function, but versatility of container sizes is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static gravity-dependent design to a dynamic pressurized system. The pump can accommodate various container heights and configurations by adjusting air pressure and flow rate, enabling the use of different container sizes without requiring specific tube lengths or configurations
3Reliability
If paper filters are used for filtration, then coffee extract can be separated, but the filtering process is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses pneumatic pressure to force coffee extract through the paper filter rapidly. The pump introduces compressed air into the upper container, creating pressure differential that accelerates the filtration process while maintaining the effectiveness of the paper filter, achieving both reliable separation and high productivity
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 system provides a versatile and efficient method for cold-brewing coffee, allowing for any coffee bean particle size and extract concentration, with a fluid-tight connection and rapid filtration, independent of container height, significantly reducing the time needed to transfer coffee extract from the upper to the lower container.
Implementation Method 1
A pump, disposed within the closure, includes an inlet and an outlet
Data Source
AI summary
An improved system for cold-brewing coffee is disclosed. The system includes a first container for containing and steeping ground coffee beans in water and a second container for collecting coffee bean extract. The improvement comprises a closure, a pump, a sleeve, and a tube. The closure includes a first housing configured to removably secure the first container to the first housing and a second housing configured to removably secure the second container to the second housing. The pump has an inlet and an outlet. The sleeve, unitary with the first housing, defines an interior region into which the pump is received and an exterior surface extension in fluid communication with the pump outlet. The tube has opposite end portions. One of the end portions of the tube is removably secured to the sleeve exterior surface extension. The first and second housings are removably joined together.