A machine for preparing hot beverages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transportable machines for preparing hot beverages are complex and laborious to use, requiring users to simultaneously hold the machine and a recipient while activating a switch, and lack adjustable dispensing quantities.
Innovation Solution
A machine with an inclination sensor that activates beverage dispensing based on the machine's inclination, allowing users to control the quantity by inclining the casing and eliminating the need for additional command devices, along with independent heating and a wireless communication module for remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a switch is used to activate the machine, then the machine can be controlled, but the user must simultaneously hold the machine and recipient while operating the switch, making the operation complex and laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The machine automatically detects its inclination angle through the inclination sensor and autonomously activates or stops beverage dispensing based on whether the predetermined angle is reached, eliminating the need for manual switch operation by the user
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical switch operation is replaced by an electronic inclination sensor that automatically detects the machine's angle and triggers the dispensing system through electronic control
2Adaptability or versatility
If a switch is used to control dispensing, then the machine can be activated, but the user cannot regulate the quantity of beverage dispensed according to personal taste
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system transitions from a fixed on/off control to a dynamic control where the dispensing duration is continuously adjustable based on the inclination angle, allowing users to control quantity by holding the machine at different angles
Solution Approach 2:
The control parameter for dispensing quantity is changed from a binary switch state to a continuous inclination angle parameter, enabling proportional control of beverage dispensed based on the angle at which the user holds the machine
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 easy, efficient, and adjustable dispensing of hot beverages without the need for switches, allowing for autonomous operation and remote control, while maintaining a consistent temperature for subsequent use.
Implementation Method 1
an inclination sensor able to measure an inclination of the casing of the machine with respect to a vertical
Implementation Method 2
heating means of the water, for example constituted by a tube enveloped by electrical resistances
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A machine (10) for preparing hot beverages comprising: a casing (15) housing a water pump (18), heating means (29) of the water, and an electronic control card (20) able to command actuation of the pump (18) and the water heating means (29); a body (80), connected to the casing (15), able to house a capsule (28) containing a preparation for the beverage; in which the control card (20) is connected to at least an inclination sensor (52) able to measure an inclination of the casing (15) of the machine (10) with respect to a vertical, and is able to: receive from the inclination sensor a signal representing a measured inclination value (θ) of the casing (15); comparing the measured value (θ) with a predetermined value (Y); actuating the pump (18) when the measured value (θ) is greater than the predetermined value (Y); stopping the pump (18) when the measured value (θ) is smaller than or equal to the predetermined value (Y).