Espresso coffee machine with improved system for regulating the temperature of the water and method for regulating the temperature of the water in an espresso coffee machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing espresso coffee machines lack precision in maintaining water temperature due to factors like frequency of use, machine structure, and environmental conditions, leading to inconsistent beverage quality.
Innovation Solution
A machine with a processor-controlled temperature regulation system that adjusts the water temperature in the coffee boiler based on time since last use, component temperatures, and environmental factors, using a Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller to maintain a set reference temperature.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a closed loop regulating system with temperature sensor and heating element is used, then the temperature stability is improved, but the precision is insufficient due to frequency of use and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary heating actions based on predicted usage patterns. The processor analyzes historical data to anticipate when heating is needed and initiates heating before actual usage occurs, ensuring temperature precision is maintained despite environmental factors and usage frequency variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors temperature through sensors and uses feedback loops to adjust heating element operation. The processor receives temperature data, compares it with target values, and dynamically controls heating power to maintain precise temperature despite external disturbances and usage patterns.
2Reliability
If the machine is used continuously, then the temperature of water reaching coffee powder is constant and predictable, but during periods of inactivity the temperature varies considerably
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operation based on real-time usage detection and historical patterns. The processor modifies heating cycles, temperature setpoints, and power levels according to whether the machine is in continuous use or idle periods, ensuring reliable temperature consistency across varying usage scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters such as heating power, temperature setpoints, and cycle frequencies based on detected usage patterns. During idle periods, the processor adjusts parameters to maintain temperature, while during continuous use, it optimizes for energy efficiency while preserving temperature consistency.
3Ease of operation
If the water flow path includes contact with metallic parts, then heat is released or received during flow, but this causes temperature deviation from reference temperature
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces intermediary temperature compensation mechanisms. Sensors placed at strategic points in the water flow path detect temperature changes caused by metal component contact, and the processor calculates compensation values to adjust the reference temperature or heating power, ensuring accurate final temperature despite intermediate heat exchange.
4Adaptability or versatility
If environmental factors such as room temperature influence the machine, then adaptability to environment is improved, but temperature precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from environmental sensors to continuously adjust heating operations. Temperature sensors monitor both internal water temperature and external environmental conditions, and the processor uses this feedback to compensate for heat loss or gain from the environment, maintaining precise temperature control despite room temperature variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes heating parameters based on environmental conditions. When environmental temperature drops, the processor increases heating power and adjusts cycle frequency; when environmental temperature rises, it reduces heating input, thereby maintaining temperature precision across different environmental conditions.
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
Ensures consistent and repeatable water temperature at the coffee powder, independent of machine usage frequency and environmental influences, enhancing the uniformity and quality of the beverage dispensing process.
Implementation Method 1
The water necessary for percolation of the coffee is usually heated by means of direct or indirect contact thereof with a heating element, normally an electrical resistance
Implementation Method 2
a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the water in the coffee boiler
Implementation Method 3
the water, along its flow path (from the moment it has been heated until the moment it reaches the puck of coffee powder) comes into contact with metallic (or non-metallic) parts to which it releases heat or, on some occasions, from which it receives heat
Data Source
AI summary
An espresso coffee machine is described, said machine comprising: a dispensing group and a corresponding coffee boiler containing water under pressure; a heater device for heating the water in the coffee boiler; a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the water in the coffee boiler; a processor connected to said sensor and configured to drive said heater device so that the water in the coffee boiler is at a set reference temperature, wherein said processor comprises a feedback system; and wherein the value of said set reference temperature is varied as a function of at least one of the following parameters: (a) a first parameter which is a function of the time elapsed from an operating cycle of the machine or a frequency of use of the machine within a time interval; (b) a second parameter which is a function of the temperature of a component of the machine; and (c) a third parameter which is a function of the environment.