Infusion Capsule Sealing Structure Opened by Pressurized Medium
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for opening capsules for infusion beverages risk contamination and hygiene issues due to the use of sharp objects, and result in permanent damage to the capsule, leading to residual liquid leakage.
Innovation Solution
A capsule design with two parallel wall sections connected by a sealed connection that can be opened by a pressurized liquid or gaseous medium, eliminating the need for sharp objects and allowing the walls to reseal after use, preventing contamination and leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a sharp object (needle or knife) is used to open the capsule, then the inlet opening can be created, but the infusion beverage may be contaminated and hygiene problems occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical sharp object (needle or knife) with a pressurized liquid or gaseous medium to open the capsule. The medium is introduced through an access opening to the sealed connection, causing the wall sections to separate and create the inlet opening without physical contact between sharp objects and the beverage, thereby eliminating contamination risk
Solution Approach 2:
The pressurized liquid or gaseous medium acts as an intermediary substance that facilitates the opening process. Instead of directly using a sharp object to pierce the capsule, the medium is introduced through the access opening to the sealed connection, mediating the separation of wall sections and creation of the inlet opening without contaminating the beverage
2Ease of operation
If a needle or knife is used to open the capsule, then the inlet opening is created, but the object becomes blunt and requires maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical sharp object (needle or knife) that requires maintenance with a pressurized liquid or gaseous medium. This substitution eliminates wear and blunting issues, as the medium can be continuously supplied without degradation, removing the need for maintenance of opening tools
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the pressurized medium is continuously supplied through the access opening without requiring external intervention for maintenance. The opening function is automatically performed by the pressurized medium each time it is supplied, eliminating the need for manual sharpening or replacement of opening tools
3Ease of operation
If the capsule is opened with a sharp object or by membrane breaking, then the inlet opening is created, but the opening remains open after use causing residual liquid to flow out
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a dynamic sealing system where the sealed connection between wall sections can transition between sealed and open states. The access opening to the sealed connection allows the wall sections to separate when pressurized medium is introduced, creating the inlet opening, while maintaining the capability to return to the sealed state, thus dynamically controlling the opening rather than creating a permanent opening
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
This solution reduces the risk of contamination, minimizes the need for maintenance, and ensures a hygienic and efficient preparation process by using a pressurized medium to create an opening in the capsule without damaging the walls, allowing the infusion liquid to enter and exit without leaving the capsule open.
Implementation Method 1
the sealed connection is at least partially separated by the introduction of a liquid or gaseous medium under pressure
Implementation Method 2
the pressure of the infusion liquid presses the film or the base against a sharp-edged or pointed structure, which then perforates the film or the base
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a capsule (1) and a device for preparing an infusion beverage, such as coffee, tea, or milk beverages. The capsule (1) comprises two parallel extending wall sections (11) and (13), which are connected to each other by a sealing connection (14). A pressurized liquid or gaseous medium can be conducted through an access (15) to the sealing connection (14) of the capsule (1) with the aid of a supply line (21) in a holder (20) of the device such that the sealing connection (14) is partially undone. As a result, an opening (16) is produced in the capsule. An infusion fluid can be conducted through said opening (16), wherein the fluid can then become mixed with a powder or granules present in the capsule (1) into an infusion beverage. Said infusion beverage can be discharged through a further opening. In this method for opening the capsule, no objects or parts of the device come in contact with the infusion fluid or the infusion beverage. As a result, contamination is prevented. In addition, there are fewer wear parts, such as needles or blades, which could become dull.