Hot drinks maker with control device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee makers fail to optimize brewing results for various types of coffee beverages due to inadequate adjustment of flow rates and consideration of coffee bean properties, leading to suboptimal brewing outcomes.
Innovation Solution
A device with a flow control system that adjusts the pump rate of flow based on selected beverage types, coffee bean characteristics, grinding fineness, and desired taste profiles, allowing for precise control of brewing time and water quantity to achieve an optimal brewing result.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a fixed rate of flow is used for brewing, then the device structure is simple, but the brewing result is not optimal for different types of coffee beverages
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic flow control system where the pump rate of flow is adjusted based on the selected beverage type. The control device receives user input for different beverage types (espresso, filter coffee, etc.) and automatically adjusts the pump flow rate to optimal values for each beverage type, transforming the static flow system into a dynamic one that adapts to different brewing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the flow rate parameter according to different beverage types. The control device stores multiple flow rate values corresponding to different beverage types and selects the appropriate parameter value based on user selection. This allows the system to optimize brewing parameters for each beverage type without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If the pump rate of flow is adjusted for different beverage types, then the brewing result is optimized, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service control system where the device automatically determines and adjusts the optimal flow rate based on the selected beverage type. The control device autonomously selects the appropriate pump rate from stored values without requiring the user to manually calculate or adjust flow parameters, making the system both precise and easy to operate.
Solution Approach 2:
The control device serves multiple functions: it identifies the beverage type, determines the optimal flow rate, controls the pump operation, and manages the brewing process. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a single integrated control unit, maintaining ease of operation while achieving optimized brewing results.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single pump flow rate is used, then the device is simpler to operate, but it cannot accommodate different coffee bean properties and grinding fineness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing optimal flow rate values for different beverage types in the control device. Before brewing begins, the system has already determined and set the appropriate flow rate based on the selected beverage type, eliminating the need for real-time calculations or adjustments during the brewing process. This prepares the system in advance for optimal performance across different beverage types.
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 the preparation of a wide range of coffee beverages with improved taste outcomes by adjusting the pump rate of flow to match specific coffee types, grinding fineness, and taste profiles, ensuring optimal contact time and extraction of desired flavor substances.
Implementation Method 1
a pump configured to pump the water from the source to the brewing chamber
Implementation Method 2
a heating device for heating of the water supplied to the brewing chamber
Data Source
AI summary
A device for preparing hot beverages (1) has a flow control system (2) with a water source; (14) a brewing unit (40) with a brewing chamber (41) to hold brewing material and an with inlet line (L4) for the inlet of brewing water into the brewing chamber (41); a heating device (9) for heating the water supplied to the brewing chamber (41); a pump (9) configured to pump the water from the water source (14) to the brewing chamber (41); and a control device (18) to activate and deactivate the functional components for preparing of a selected beverage. In order to obtain an optimum brewing result, the control device (18) is configured to activate the pump (9) at a preselected rate of flow from a selection of different rates of flow ({dot over (V)}) for a subsequent beverage preparation.