Container, preparation machine and system using a binary code for encoding preparation information
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage and foodstuff preparation systems using containers with encoded preparation information face limitations in encoding density and aesthetic appeal, with current codes being either too visible or having limited information capacity.
Innovation Solution
A container code comprising a reference portion and a data portion, where the reference portion defines a reference line with three reference units forming an isosceles triangle, and the data portion uses discrete positions at vertices of isomorphic tessellating isosceles data triangles to encode preparation information, allowing for high encoding density with minimal visual impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a code is arranged on the container to encode preparation information, then the preparation information can be read by the machine to optimise the preparation process, but the code is highly visible and may be considered aesthetically displeasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional linear or 2D barcodes to a 3D code structure where data units are arranged in multiple layers or depths on the container surface. This dimensional expansion allows significantly more preparation information to be encoded while the code can be designed to blend with the container's existing visual elements, reducing aesthetic impact.
Solution Approach 2:
The code is designed with varying local properties where different regions of the code have different visual characteristics. Data units are strategically placed and sized to match the container's existing design elements, allowing the code to encode comprehensive preparation information while locally adapting to maintain aesthetic appearance.
2Loss of information
If a code with higher encoding density is used to increase the amount of preparation information, then more operational parameters can be encoded, but the code becomes more complex and has greater visual impact
Solution Approach 1:
The code is divided into multiple independent data units that can be individually configured. Each data unit represents a specific preparation parameter and can be independently adjusted. This segmentation allows the system to encode comprehensive preparation information while maintaining a regular, predictable structure that reduces overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs variable parameters within the code structure, such as data unit size, spacing, and arrangement patterns, which can be adjusted based on the amount of information needed. This flexibility allows the code to adapt its complexity level - using simpler configurations for basic preparation information and more complex configurations only when necessary for detailed parameter encoding.
3Loss of information
If a code with higher encoding density is used to increase the amount of preparation information, then more operational parameters can be encoded, but the visual impact on the container's appearance increases
Solution Approach 1:
The code structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: encoding comprehensive preparation information, maintaining aesthetic appearance, and adapting to different container types. The data units can be configured to match various container designs, allowing the same code structure to encode high-density information while universally blending with different visual designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The code utilizes the container's existing visual elements and design patterns as templates. Data units are arranged to replicate or complement the container's existing visual motifs, allowing the code to encode extensive preparation information while appearing as an integral part of the container's aesthetic design rather than an added element.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Container for a beverage or foodstuff preparation machine, the container for containing beverage or foodstuff material and comprising a code encoding preparation information, the code comprising a reference portion (80) and a data portion (78). The reference portion (80) comprises three reference units (86) defining a reference line (81), the three reference units (86) being arranged at the vertices of an isosceles reference triangle having a reference apex angle. The data portion comprises discrete positions (75) at locations determined relative to the reference line (81), each discrete position either comprises or does not comprise a data unit (82) to at least partially encode the preparation information, wherein the discrete positions (75) are arranged at vertices of a grid of isomorphic tessellating isosceles data triangles, the data triangles having a data apex angle different from the reference apex angle.