Enhanced compacted tablet and system for extraction of beverages comprising said compacted tablet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compacted coffee tablets lack structural resistance and optimal configuration for efficient coffee extraction, particularly in espresso-type beverages, with prior art failing to optimize the structural configuration and coffee volume exposure to the extraction flow.
Innovation Solution
A compacted coffee tablet design featuring distinct upstream and downstream cavities, an intercalary portion, and a specific coffee mass distribution, with the majority of the coffee mass in the intercalary portion and a smaller portion in the upstream-oriented portion, optimized for better structural resistance and extraction efficacy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a compacted coffee tablet is designed with traditional uniform structure, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the structural resistance and extraction efficacy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The tablet is divided into three distinct portions: upstream-oriented portion, intercalary portion, and downstream-oriented portion. Each portion has specific functional characteristics - the upstream portion receives infusion flow, the intercalary portion contains the majority of coffee mass for extraction, and the downstream portion directs flow. This segmentation provides structural resistance while optimizing extraction efficacy through functional specialization.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the tablet are designed with different coffee mass distributions and structural characteristics. The intercalary portion contains the majority of coffee mass (at least 60%) to maximize extraction, while upstream and downstream portions have reduced mass to maintain structural integrity and direct flow. This local quality variation optimizes both strength and extraction performance.
2Productivity
If the coffee mass is uniformly distributed throughout the tablet, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the extraction efficacy is reduced due to insufficient coffee volume exposure to the flow
Solution Approach 1:
The coffee mass is non-uniformly distributed with the intercalary portion containing the majority of coffee mass (at least 60%). This local concentration ensures maximum coffee volume exposure to the infusion flow during extraction, optimizing productivity. The upstream and downstream portions have reduced coffee mass to facilitate flow distribution while maintaining sufficient extraction material in the central region.
3Quantity of substance
If the upstream cavity is large to enable beverage accumulation, then the beverage accumulation capacity is improved, but the structural resistance and coffee mass distribution are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The tablet structure is segmented into upstream, intercalary, and downstream portions, with the upstream-oriented portion containing the cavity for beverage accumulation. This segmentation allows the cavity to be strategically positioned to receive and accumulate beverage while the intercalary portion maintains sufficient coffee mass and structural integrity. The downstream portion then directs the accumulated flow through the coffee bed for extraction.
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 new tablet design enhances structural resistance and extraction efficacy by ensuring a larger coffee mass exposure to the infusion flow, resulting in improved coffee extraction and stability during beverage preparation.
Implementation Method 1
the new tablet design enhances structural resistance and extraction efficacy
Implementation Method 2
improved coffee extraction and stability during beverage preparation
Data Source
AI summary
A compacted coffee tablet (1), in particular a tablet of compacted roast and ground coffee beans, presenting an advantageous configuration in terms of compaction process, maintenance of shape and efficiency of coffee extraction, in particular of espresso type coffee. A beverage preparation systems including the compacted coffee tablet (1).