Dual-Function Espresso Machine for Pressurized and Percolation Coffee
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional espresso and filter coffee machines are distinct, requiring separate equipment for each type of coffee preparation, leading to increased purchase costs and space organization challenges for establishments offering both options.
Innovation Solution
A dual-function coffee machine equipped with two types of filter holders and a specialized water system, allowing for both traditional pressurized espresso preparation and gravity-based percolation for American coffee, utilizing a control unit to manage the water flow and pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate machines (espresso machine and filter coffee machine) are provided, then both types of coffee can be prepared with proper process, but purchase costs and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single coffee machine to perform both espresso preparation (with pressurized water and compacted coffee) and filter coffee preparation (with gravity-driven percolation and uncompacted coffee). The system includes a pump that can operate in two modes: high-pressure mode for espresso and low-pressure/gravity mode for filter coffee, along with a dispensing unit that accommodates different filter holder types for each coffee preparation method.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two separate machines are provided, then each coffee type can be prepared correctly, but space organization becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate coffee machines (espresso machine and filter coffee machine) into a single integrated unit. The machine combines a common water system and heating unit with a dispensing unit that can accommodate different filter holders, thereby reducing the space required from two separate machine footprints to one consolidated unit while maintaining both preparation capabilities.
3Power
If a conventional espresso machine is used, then espresso can be prepared with high pressure, but it cannot prepare American coffee which requires atmospheric pressure percolation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the water pressure delivery system adjustable and adaptable. The pump can dynamically switch between high-pressure operation for espresso and low-pressure/gravity-assisted operation for filter coffee. The system includes controllable valves and a dispensing unit that can accommodate different filter holder configurations, allowing the machine to adapt its pressure delivery characteristics to match the requirements of different coffee preparation methods.
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
Enables the preparation of both espresso and American coffee using a single machine, optimizing space and reducing costs by integrating the functionality of two separate machines into one unit.
Implementation Method 1
a pump provides for the hot water to be pressurized and conveyed into a dispensing unit wherein the filter holder is tightly engaged. The filter holder contains a dose of pressed coffee powder and the water passes through the coffee powder in a few seconds, precisely because of its high pressure, which is usually 9 bars.
Implementation Method 2
American coffee, which is also known as filter coffee, is obtained by percolation, that is to say by pouring boiling water at atmospheric pressure through an appropriate amount of ground coffee contained in a filter, allowing the water to drip by gravity inside a receptacle placed under the filter.
Implementation Method 3
electric espresso machine
Data Source
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AI summary
Coffee machine (100) comprising a water system (2) in which pressurized hot water circulates, at least one dispensing unit (4) fed with pressurized hot water, a first filter holder (30) housing a first filter (A) for the preparation of espresso coffee, a second filter (B) for the preparation of American coffee, consisting in a funnel-shaped basket (54) which comprises an upper collar (54a) with cylindrical shape, which is inferiorly joined with a conical hopper (5) perforated with a plurality of holes.