Espresso Brew Group Preinfusion Using a Piston Flow Diverter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing espresso coffee machines lack the ability to allow users to set preinfusion time independently for each brew group and do not enable flexible preinfusion during operation, especially when multiple brew groups are in use.
Innovation Solution
An improved espresso coffee machine with a flow diverter and divider device that uses a piston mechanism to control the diversion of hot water flow, allowing for adjustable preinfusion time by positioning a piston within a cylindrical body to connect the hot water feed pipe and outlet pipe at different heights and angles, enabling preinfusion at the user's discretion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a fixed preinfusion time is programmed into the machine, then the preinfusion process is automated, but the user cannot adjust the preinfusion time independently for each brew group
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed, programmed preinfusion timing with a dynamic, user-adjustable mechanism. Each brew group is equipped with an independent timer that can be manually set by the user, allowing the preinfusion duration to be dynamically changed according to specific needs. This transforms the static, automated system into a flexible one where parameters can be adjusted in real-time without reprogramming the entire machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the timing control function by providing separate, independent timers for each brew group rather than a single centralized timer. This segmentation allows each brew group to have its own preinfusion time setting, enabling independent adjustment and customization for different groups simultaneously, thereby resolving the contradiction between automation and individual adjustability.
2Ease of operation
If preinfusion is achieved by shutting off water flow from the pump to the boiler, then preinfusion can be obtained, but the preinfusion time is predetermined and cannot be changed by the user
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static preinfusion time determined by fixed valve operation to a dynamic system where users can adjust the preinfusion duration. The independent timers associated with each brew group allow operators to dynamically set the preinfusion time based on coffee type, desired strength, and other variables, making the system adaptable while maintaining ease of operation through simple timer adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables parameter changes by allowing users to modify the preinfusion time setting independently for each brew group. The timer mechanism accepts user input to change the duration parameter, transforming the fixed operational parameter into a variable one that can be optimized for different brewing scenarios without complicating the operational process.
3Device complexity
If the machine uses a simple valve system for water flow control, then the device complexity is low, but the machine cannot provide customizable preinfusion for multiple brew groups
Solution Approach 1:
The water flow control system is segmented by providing independent timers and control mechanisms for each brew group. This segmentation allows each group to have its own preinfusion timing control while sharing the common boiler and pump infrastructure, thereby increasing versatility without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a modular timer system that can be replicated across multiple brew groups using the same basic components. Each brew group uses identical timer and valve mechanisms, allowing the system to provide customized preinfusion control for multiple groups while maintaining relatively simple, standardized components that reduce overall complexity through reuse and standardization.
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 customizable preinfusion time for each brew group, allowing for optimal coffee extraction even when multiple groups are operating, by diverting water flow to soak coffee powder at low pressure, improving the quality of espresso production.
Implementation Method 1
a flow diverter and divider device that uses a piston mechanism to control the diversion of hot water flow, allowing for adjustable preinfusion time by positioning a piston within a cylindrical body to connect the hot water feed pipe and outlet pipe
Data Source
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AI summary
An espresso coffee machine comprises a boiler and a pump for feeding hot water under pressure to one or more brew groups (1), each of which comprises a receptacle (24) for infusing a predetermined dose of ground coffee, a hot water feed pipe (38) and an outlet pipe (40). Manual operating means (30, 50) are provided at the inlet of each brew group for selectively putting the coffee powder receptacle (24) in communication with the water feed pipe (38), with the outlet pipe 40 or with both the pipes in order to preinfuse the coffee powder.