Cylindrical Infuser with Controlled Orifices for Yerba Mate Brewing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for preparing yerba mate infusions require manual manipulation and do not ensure adequate contact between yerba mate and water, leading to diluted or bitter tasting drinks.
Innovation Solution
A disposable infuser system with a cylindrical design and adjustable orifices for controlled infusion, allowing yerba mate to be infused without manual handling, ensuring optimal contact with water for a flavorful drink.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual brewing of yerba mate is performed, then the user can control the infusion process, but the process becomes complex and requires manipulation of yerba mate
Solution Approach 1:
The infuser device automatically performs the brewing function by controlling water flow through its walls to contact the yerba mate, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of the leaves while maintaining effective infusion
Solution Approach 2:
The yerba mate is extracted from the user's direct manipulation and placed inside the sealed infuser container, separating the ingredient handling from the water infusion process
2Productivity
If yerba mate is placed to maximize contact with water, then infusion efficiency increases, but the flavor becomes diluted and bitter
Solution Approach 1:
The infuser creates localized water flow through its walls that provides adequate contact with yerba mate for efficient infusion, while the contained structure prevents over-extraction and flavor dilution
Solution Approach 2:
The infuser acts as an intermediary between water and yerba mate, controlling the interaction through its permeable walls to achieve optimal infusion without direct mixing that causes dilution
3Ease of operation
If disposable infuser system is used, then cleanliness and ease of use improve, but environmental friendliness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The infuser is designed as a disposable single-use component that provides clean and convenient brewing without requiring cleaning or maintenance, accepting the environmental cost of single-use materials for the benefit of user convenience and hygiene
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 clean, easy-to-use, and environmentally friendly method for preparing flavorful yerba mate infusions outside the home, maintaining flavor consistency and avoiding manual brewing steps.
Implementation Method 1
The infuser is made of a material that allows the passage of water through its walls by osmosis or diffusion
Implementation Method 2
The infuser is made of a material that allows the passage of water through its walls by osmosis or diffusion
Data Source
AI summary
An infuser and a system for preparing an infused beverage in a drinking cup. The infuser comprises a hollow cylinder comprising a plurality of orifices, an inner cavity, an opening in a top surface, a filter element and a threaded bottom portion. The system comprises a container, the infuser and a drinking straw. The system can be used with “single-serve” ingredients to be infused, in particular based on yerba mate, coffee or tea.