Removable Filter Holder with Closure Mechanism to Prevent Dripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing removable filter holders in beverage preparation machines fail to prevent liquid from dripping after dispensing, as the dispensing aperture is not effectively protected, leading to inefficiencies in beverage collection and filter cleaning.
Innovation Solution
A removable filter holder with manually operable obstruction means, such as an oscillating cover, drawer, or elastically deformable conduit, that can be actuated using levers or a toothed spool and rack mechanism to temporarily block the dispensing aperture, preventing liquid from dripping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the filter holder has a removable design for easy cleaning, then the ease of operation is improved, but liquid dripping from the dispensing aperture cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder incorporates a movable closure element that can dynamically transition between open and closed positions. This dynamic component allows the device to adapt its state based on operational requirements - remaining open during beverage dispensing for easy cleaning access, and closing afterward to prevent liquid dripping, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and preventing harmful effects.
2Ease of operation
If the dispensing aperture remains open for easy beverage dispensing, then the ease of operation is improved, but liquid dripping occurs after dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element operates periodically - remaining in an open state during the beverage dispensing phase to ensure easy operation, then transitioning to a closed state after dispensing completes to prevent liquid dripping. This periodic action between open and closed states allows the system to satisfy both contradictory requirements at different operational moments.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a closure mechanism is added to prevent dripping, then the harmful factors are reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure element is designed to operate automatically through a self-service mechanism that utilizes the existing gripping means and elastic yielding means already present in the filter holder. The elastic element provides automatic return to the closed position without requiring additional power sources or complex control systems, thus preventing liquid dripping while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
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 solution effectively prevents liquid from dripping, allowing for efficient beverage collection and easy cleaning of the filter holder, enhancing the usability and functionality of beverage preparation machines.
Implementation Method 1
provided with elastic yielding means, able to forcing their return to the initial position
Implementation Method 2
said actuation means comprise a toothed spool coupled to said obstruction means, and a rack which can be operated by the user
Data Source
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AI summary
A removable filter holder (1; 2; 3; 4) for beverage preparation machines, comprising handle means (101; 102; 103; 104); a compartment (201; 202; 203; 204) for positioning A charge of edible material for infusion or dissolution by water, an opening (211; 212: 223; 214) for dispensing the prepared beverage, wherein said filter holder further comprises temporary means for obstructing said opening (401; 403; 414), which can be actuated manually or automatically by means of suitable means, and made so as not to interfere with the dispensing of the beverage.