Dual-Store Capsule Feeding with Shared Outlet Jam Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic beverage vending machines are limited to producing a single type of beverage using capsules, as they typically have only one capsule feeding apparatus associated with a brewing device, making it impractical and costly to add multiple production devices for varied beverage options.
Innovation Solution
A capsule feeding apparatus with two stores for different types of capsules and a common outlet device, equipped with dispensing and orientating means, along with detection and control systems to ensure proper orientation and prevent over-dispensing, allowing for the selection and brewing of multiple beverage types without additional brewing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple capsule feeding apparatuses and brewing devices are added to produce multiple beverage types, then beverage variety is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single brewing device that can handle multiple capsule types through a multi-store feeding apparatus. The system uses a common outlet device and brewing chamber that can process different capsule formats (single-serving and multi-serving), allowing one brewing device to perform multiple beverage production functions without requiring separate dedicated devices for each beverage type.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule storage system is segmented into multiple independent stores (first store for single-serving capsules, second store for multi-serving capsules) that feed into a common outlet. This segmentation allows different capsule types to be stored and managed separately while converging at the brewing device, enabling beverage variety without multiplying the brewing device itself.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple capsule feeding apparatuses are added to enable multiple beverage types, then beverage variety is improved, but space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple capsule storage stores and their feeding mechanisms into a single integrated system that shares a common outlet device and brewing chamber. By combining the feeding apparatuses and consolidating the brewing function into one device, the system achieves multiple beverage capabilities without proportionally increasing the machine footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The system accommodates multiple capsule types and storage configurations within a compact footprint by utilizing vertical space and three-dimensional arrangement of stores and components. The multi-store configuration and layered structure allow efficient use of available space, enabling beverage variety without linearly increasing horizontal footprint.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple capsule feeding apparatuses are added for different beverage types, then beverage variety is improved, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The brewing device is designed as a universal platform that can process different capsule types through a common brewing mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need to manufacture multiple separate brewing devices, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the capability to produce various beverage types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a standardized common outlet device and brewing chamber design that handles different capsule types uniformly. By homogenizing the brewing interface and processing mechanism, the system reduces manufacturing complexity and costs compared to having specialized brewing devices for each capsule type.
4Adaptability or versatility
If dispensing means for multiple stores are activated simultaneously, then beverage variety is improved, but capsule dispensing control becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs detection means that monitor the presence of capsules in the outlet device and provide feedback to the control unit. The control unit uses this feedback to selectively activate or deactivate specific dispensing means, ensuring that only the appropriate store dispenses capsules for the selected beverage type, thereby maintaining reliable dispensing control despite having multiple active stores.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically controls which dispensing means are active based on the selected beverage type and capsule availability. The control unit can selectively enable or disable dispensing from specific stores in real-time, allowing flexible adaptation to different beverage requests while preventing conflicts or errors in capsule dispensing.
Data Source
AI summary
A feeding apparatus of capsules to a brewing device of an automatic beverage vending machine; the feeding apparatus comprising two stores for respective types of capsules; an outlet device, common to the two stores, to feed the capsules to the brewing device; and, for each store, dispensing means of the respective capsules one by one; and orientating means configured to give the capsules a determined final orientation before they are dispensed to the brewing device; the feeding apparatus also comprising detecting means to detect whether or not a capsule is present inside the outlet device; and control means for stopping the dispensing means of both stores and preventing further capsules from being dispensed in response to a capsule-presence signal emitted by the detecting means.