Modular Coffee Machine for AC/DC Portable Beverage Preparation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coffee machines are limited to use in domestic or communal environments and lack versatility for operation outside these settings.
Innovation Solution
A modular coffee machine design with a fixed and movable part, allowing for electric and hydraulic connections, enabling operation with either AC power for fixed use or DC power for portable use, including a rechargeable battery for autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the coffee machine is designed as a fixed unit for domestic use, then it can operate with AC power and water reservoir, but it cannot be used in portable settings or outside domestic environments
Solution Approach 1:
The coffee machine is divided into two separate modules: a fixed base unit containing the water reservoir and AC power supply, and a movable unit containing the brewing mechanism and DC power supply. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for its specific function while enabling portable operation when the movable unit is separated from the base.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable unit is designed to function autonomously with DC power and can also operate when coupled to the fixed base unit with AC power. The dual power supply capability (AC and DC batteries) and the ability to function independently or as part of a combined system provide multi-functionality that resolves the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the coffee machine is made portable with movable parts, then it can be used outside domestic environments, but it requires dual power supply systems (AC and DC)
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is made dynamic by allowing the machine to switch between different power sources based on operational context. The movable unit can draw power from DC batteries during portable operation or connect to AC power when docked with the base unit, providing adaptive energy utilization that resolves the contradiction between portability and power requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the coffee machine operates autonomously with DC power, then it can be used in vehicles or remote locations, but it cannot utilize the larger water reservoir and AC power when available
Solution Approach 1:
The movable unit is pre-equipped with DC batteries and basic brewing components to ensure autonomous operation capability. This preliminary preparation allows the unit to function independently in remote locations or vehicles, while also enabling it to dock with the base unit for recharging, water refilling, and AC power operation when available, thus resolving the contradiction between autonomous operation and operational flexibility.
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
The machine becomes portable and versatile, allowing coffee preparation in various locations, including outside domestic environments and inside vehicles, using either AC or DC power sources.
Implementation Method 1
an electric pump for supplying a flow of water from the reservoir to the boiler
Implementation Method 2
a boiler provided with electric heating means
Implementation Method 3
a dispensing unit which is connected to the boiler, for dispensing a flow of hot water and/or steam
Data Source
AI summary
The machine (1) comprises a support structure (3), in which the following are provided:a refillable water reservoir (4);a boiler (6) provided with an electric heater (7, 8);a pump (9) for supplying a flow of water from the reservoir (4) to the boiler (6);a first electric connector (5) for connecting the machine (1) to an AC supply voltage source;a dispensing unit (35) which is connected to the boiler (6), for dispensing a flow of hot water and/or steam, and to which the following can be coupled:a dose-holder unit (36) for receiving a dose, pre-packaged or loose, of a substance for the preparation of a beverage;a unit (24) for controlling operation of the machine (1); andat least one operating device (25) which can be operated so as to activate preparation of a beverage.The support structure (2, 3) comprises a fixed part (2) and a movable part (3) which can be coupled and uncoupled to/from each other and are provided with respective cooperating means for providing electric and hydraulic connections (12, 16, 17; 13, 20, 21).When the movable part (3) is coupled to the fixed part (2), the machine (1) as a whole is capable of operating with water drawn from the reservoir (4) and using AC electric power.When the movable part (3) is uncoupled from the fixed part (2), this movable part (3) is capable of operating autonomously with water supplied to the boiler (6) via a water inlet means (32) and using DC electric power.