Improved filter holder for espresso coffee machine and machine equipped with such filter holder
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional filter holders for espresso coffee machines face difficulties in secure and easy engagement/disengagement of the pouring device, often resulting in improper orientation of the pouring spouts and risk of thread damage or friction ring failure due to thermal and mechanical stress.
Innovation Solution
The improved filter holder employs a bayonet coupling mechanism with keyhole-shaped slots and enlarged teeth for secure alignment and a gasket ring for stable locking, along with a retractable tooth and spherical seat for enhanced stability during engagement and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a screwing system is used to connect the pouring device to the filter holder, then the connection can be made, but the pouring spouts may not be oriented in the appropriate direction and the threads may be damaged over time
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is divided into separate elements: external teeth on the pouring device and corresponding seats with keyhole-shaped slots in the filter holder. This segmentation allows for controlled engagement where the teeth guide the pouring device into the correct orientation while the slots provide the necessary movement freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The keyhole-shaped slots have an asymmetric geometry with an enlarged head portion and a narrower slot portion. This asymmetric design ensures that the teeth can be inserted easily in the correct orientation but prevents removal unless deliberately manipulated, ensuring proper spout orientation while allowing easy engagement and disengagement.
2Ease of operation
If a friction ring is used to force the insertion of the discharge nozzle, then the pouring device can be coupled, but the friction ring may lose its anti-slip properties over time due to thermal and mechanical stress
Solution Approach 1:
The friction-based mechanical system is replaced with a positive engagement system using teeth and keyhole-shaped slots. Instead of relying on friction to hold the pouring device in place, the interlocking tooth-slot mechanism provides mechanical locking that is independent of thermal and mechanical stress conditions.
3Manufacturing precision
If the pouring device is forced to screw in to achieve correct spout orientation, then the spouts are properly oriented, but the unscrewing operation becomes difficult and may damage the threads
Solution Approach 1:
The keyhole-shaped slots are designed with an enlarged head portion that allows the teeth to be inserted and oriented correctly before the final locking position is reached. This preliminary action ensures proper spout orientation is achieved during the engagement process itself, eliminating the need for forced adjustment during disengagement.
Data Source
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AI summary
Filter holder for espresso coffee machines comprising a cup-shaped body (30) of circular profile, suitable for internally housing the filter, as well as a pouring device (10) of the beverage disposed under the cup-shaped body (30) and provided with at least one pouring spout (11), said filter holder (3) being provided with connection means (50, 60) for connecting said pouring device (10) to said cup-shaped body (30), wherein said connection means (50, 60) provide a bayonet coupling between the pouring device (10) and the cup-shaped body (30).