Motor-Screw Pod Holder for Compact Leak-Safe Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pod-holding devices for beverage dispensing machines are bulky, unsafe, and difficult to use, especially in compact spaces like aviation and naval environments, with issues such as protruding parts, complex mechanisms, and poor hygiene due to liquid leakage.
Innovation Solution
A pod-holding device using a motor-driven screw system for sealed closure and expulsion, featuring a top and bottom subunit with motors for easy pod insertion and removal, allowing for compact design and safe operation, suitable for both aluminum and paper pods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If spring systems or hydraulic systems are used for closing the pod-holder, then the pod can be securely sealed, but the device becomes bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex spring systems or hydraulic systems with a simpler mechanical screw system. The screw mechanism (10) with nut (9) provides reliable sealing through direct mechanical action, eliminating the need for elastic or hydraulic components while reducing overall device complexity and improving reliability.
2Reliability
If hinge-type systems are used to connect top and bottom half-shells, then the pod-holder can be sealed, but parts project from the machine profile creating safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the top half-shell (7) and bottom half-shell (11) into a compact assembly where the screw mechanism is integrated within the pod-holder structure. This integration eliminates the need for external hinge-type connections, ensuring no parts project from the machine profile while maintaining reliable sealing.
3Ease of operation
If manual gripping means are used to extract used pods, then pod removal is possible, but the operation is difficult and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service extraction mechanism where the screw mechanism (10) with nut (9) automatically expels used pods. The mechanical action of the screw system provides sufficient force to eject pods without requiring manual gripping means, simplifying the extraction operation and reducing device complexity.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the drawer is not completely extractable, then the pod-holder remains stable, but cleaning becomes difficult and liquids are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pod-holder into a stable mounted structure with a fully extractable drawer component. This segmentation allows the drawer to be completely removed for easy cleaning and liquid disposal while the main pod-holder structure remains stable and securely mounted to the machine.
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 device is more durable, easier to use, safer, and fits into small spaces, providing efficient and hygienic pod handling with reduced risk of liquid leakage and improved safety by eliminating protruding parts.
Implementation Method 1
the sealed closure being performed using a motor-driven screw system (10, 9) which acts on the top half-shell (7) of the extraction chamber
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a pod-holding device (100) for a beverage dispensing machine. The pod-holding device comprises a first (7) and a second (11) extraction subunit, the first extraction subunit (7) sealingly closing against the second subunit (11) so as to form, when closed, an extraction chamber for the pod, and, when open, allow insertion of the pod between the two subunits (7, 11).