Device for in-cup preparation of a beverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation devices fail to fully dissolve beverage concentrates, leading to non-uniform and uninviting beverages due to residual concentrate and varying taste, especially in hot beverages like tea or coffee, where consistent concentration is desired.
Innovation Solution
A device with a plate member featuring outlet nozzles arranged at different angles to direct fluid jets both to the bottom and side walls of a receptacle, ensuring thorough dissolution of the concentrate without sticking, and optionally including a coffee mixing chamber for separate preparation of coffee and milk components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If beverage concentrate is introduced into a receptacle and mixed with liquid, then beverage preparation is enabled, but the concentrate is not fully dissolved leading to residua and non-uniform appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the liquid introduction into multiple jets distributed across different locations (center and periphery) of the receptacle. This segmentation allows simultaneous contact with concentrate at various points, improving dissolution completeness and uniformity without requiring a single complex mixing mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from single-point liquid introduction to multi-point distribution across the receptacle's surface area. By introducing liquid jets at multiple locations simultaneously, the system achieves better dissolution and uniformity by utilizing spatial distribution rather than relying on a single mixing point.
2Quantity of substance
If beverage concentrate is provided to a receptacle, then beverage preparation is enabled, but parts of the concentrate may stick to the inner side walls and cannot be fully dissolved
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid introduction system is segmented into multiple jets positioned at different locations including the periphery of the receptacle. This segmentation ensures that liquid contacts concentrate not only at the center but also at the walls where sticking occurs, improving dissolution completeness without complicating the preparation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-jet liquid introduction system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the bulk liquid for dissolution, targets concentrate at the center, and specifically addresses concentrate stuck at the periphery. This multi-functionality achieves complete dissolution while maintaining simple operation.
3Loss of time
If beverage concentrate is not fully dissolved in the liquid, then preparation time is reduced, but the taste of the beverage varies from the intended taste
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by introducing liquid jets that immediately contact and begin dissolving the concentrate upon its introduction into the receptacle. This preliminary mixing action ensures rapid and complete dissolution from the start, achieving both quick preparation and consistent taste without requiring extended mixing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented liquid jet system provides immediate multi-point contact with the concentrate, accelerating dissolution kinetics. By distributing liquid introduction across multiple locations simultaneously, the system achieves complete and consistent dissolution rapidly, maintaining both speed and taste reliability.
4Device complexity
If conventional beverage preparation devices are used, then simple structure is maintained, but residua of concentrate are present in the prepared beverage
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a segmented liquid introduction approach with multiple jets positioned at different locations in the receptacle. This segmentation improves dissolution completeness by ensuring comprehensive contact with concentrate while maintaining relatively simple device structure, avoiding the need for complex mechanical mixers or multiple components.
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
Enables efficient, quick preparation of beverages with uniform concentration and attractive appearance, allowing for various foam qualities and the production of complex drinks like cappuccinos, while maintaining hygiene by avoiding additional mixing chambers and minimizing bacterial contamination.
Implementation Method 1
at least two of the outlet nozzles (4) are designed to direct a fluid jet (A3, A4) to an inner side wall (13b) of the receptacle (13) and said outlet nozzles (4) are arranged in the plate member (2) at different angles (α) with respect the vertical, and wherein at least two of the outlet nozzles (4) are designed to direct a fluid jet (A1, A2) to the bottom (13a) of the receptacle (13) and said outlet nozzles (4) are arranged in the plate member (2) at different angles (β) with respect to the vertical
Data Source
AI summary
A beverage production device prepares a beverage from a beverage concentrate contained in a receptacle. The beverage production device includes a support member for supporting the receptacle, a plate member arranged vertically to the support means, the plate member including at least four outlet nozzles for injecting a fluid jet into the receptacle. A liquid supply member is connected to the outlet nozzles, and at least two of the outlet nozzles are designed to direct a fluid jet to an inner side wall of the receptacle and are arranged at different angles with respect the vertical. At least two of the outlet nozzles are designed to direct a fluid jet to the bottom of the receptacle and are arranged at different angles with respect to the vertical.