Infusion unit for a coffee machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee machine infusion units are often bulky and structurally complex due to intricate mechanisms for the ejection piston movement, which complicates their design and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A compact and simplified infusion unit design featuring a reversible rotational-translational infusion cylinder with an inclined axis, an ejection piston, and an oscillating rocker mechanism, along with a scraper element that oscillates between rest positions to unload spent coffee and convey new coffee, reducing the need for complex structural elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complex mechanisms are used for ejection piston movement, then the ejection function is reliable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkages with a cam mechanism that uses controlled oscillation to achieve ejection piston movement. The cam profile is specifically designed to generate the required motion sequence, eliminating the need for multiple interconnected mechanical components while maintaining reliable ejection function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the motion parameters by using oscillating movement instead of linear reciprocating movement for the ejection piston. The oscillation amplitude and frequency are controlled through the cam mechanism to achieve the desired ejection effect with simpler overall structure.
2Reliability
If multiple mechanisms are used for piston movement, then the ejection function is complete, but the volume of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the ejection piston movement mechanism with the scraper element oscillation mechanism into a single integrated system. Both components are driven by the same cam-operated oscillating rocker, merging multiple functions into one compact mechanism and reducing overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The oscillating rocker mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it drives the ejection piston, operates the scraper element, and coordinates their movements. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanisms for each function, significantly reducing the volume of the infusion unit.
3Ease of operation
If complex mechanisms are used for coffee loading and ejection, then the operational function is complete, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses periodic oscillation of the rocker mechanism to sequentially perform coffee loading, infusion, and ejection operations. The cam profile is designed to create distinct phases of oscillation that correspond to each operational stage, providing complete functionality through simple periodic motion rather than complex control mechanisms.
Data Source
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AI summary
The infusion unit (1) for a coffee machine, comprising a closing piston (3), an infusion cylinder (2), an ejection piston (5) for ejecting the load of spent coffee (30), said piston (5) sliding inside the infusion cylinder (2) in the direction of the axis of the infusion cylinder (2) between a retracted position and an extended position for ejection of the load of spent coffee (30), and operating means for the ejection piston (5), comprising an oscillating rocker (32) having a first arm (33) provided with a member for driving the ejection piston (5) and a second arm (35) provided with a member for engaging the oscillating movement of the rocker (32) selectively from a first control cam (37) configured and arranged in such a manner as to generate an oscillation of the rocker (32) in the direction corresponding to the driving towards the extended position of the ejection piston (5), or with a second control cam (38) configured and arranged in such a manner as to generate an oscillation of the rocker (32) in the direction corresponding to the driving towards the retracted position of the ejection piston (5).