Beverage machine, method and measuring vessel for a beverage machine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vending machines for beverages face challenges in accurately dosing ingredients, especially for items like tea leaves or coffee beans, due to the need for pre-programmed preparation parameters that do not account for user preferences or ingredient properties, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in drink preparation.
Innovation Solution
A measuring vessel with a weighing module and communication module that allows for wireless communication with the vending machine, enabling the recording and transmission of weight information and user preferences, which adapts preparation parameters for customized drink preparation without the need for direct storage of ingredients within the machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If pre-programmed preparation parameters are used in vending machines, then drink preparation can be automated, but user preferences and ingredient properties cannot be accounted for
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system records user preferences and ingredient properties, then uses this information to automatically adjust preparation parameters. The weighing module provides feedback on ingredient weight, and this data is stored and used to customize future drink preparations without requiring manual re-programming.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically adapting to user preferences and ingredient characteristics without requiring manual intervention. The machine learns from user choices and ingredient weights to autonomously optimize preparation parameters for subsequent drinks.
2Ease of operation
If ingredients are stored directly in the drinks machine, then preparation can be simplified, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the ingredient storage function from the drinks machine itself. Ingredients are stored externally in separate containers and brought to the machine only when needed for preparation. This eliminates the need for large built-in storage compartments while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary measuring vessel that serves as a bridge between external ingredient storage and the drinks machine. This mediator allows ingredients to be transferred efficiently without requiring the machine to have its own large storage capacity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual input of preparation parameters is required, then customization is possible, but time consumption and error probability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-recording user preferences and ingredient properties in a database. When a drink is prepared, the system automatically retrieves and applies the appropriate parameters without requiring manual input, thus eliminating time loss while maintaining full customization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically selecting and applying preparation parameters based on stored user preferences and ingredient characteristics, eliminating the need for manual parameter entry while maintaining customization.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple measuring markings are provided on measuring vessels, then different substances can be measured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of multiple physical markings on measuring vessels with an electronic measurement system. The weighing module electronically determines the correct amount of each ingredient based on its weight, eliminating the need for multiple visual markings while maintaining versatility for measuring different substances.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from visual volume markings to electronic weight measurement. This allows a single measuring vessel to accurately measure different ingredients with varying densities by using weight as the universal measurement parameter instead of volume markings tailored to specific substances.
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 simplifies and enhances the accuracy of ingredient dosing, reduces storage requirements in vending machines, and allows for personalized beverage preparation based on user preferences and ingredient properties, improving user satisfaction and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The quantity of ingredients positioned in the measurement volume has a weight that causes the scale module to deform or deflect.
Implementation Method 2
When the weighing module is placed in the measuring volume, the deformation can occur due to a change in pressure corresponding to the weight of the ingredients.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A measuring vessel for a beverage vending machine (2) has a measuring volume (3) for receiving a product and at least one weighing module (4). A communication module (6) is provided, which is connected to the weighing module (4) and is configured to transmit at least one weighing information to the beverage vending machine (2). A beverage vending machine (2) and a method for setting preparation parameters of a beverage vending machine depending on at least one recorded weighing information are also described.