Beverage extraction system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation systems using biodegradable pods face issues with optimal extraction of ingredients like roast and ground coffee, leading to over-extraction or under-extraction due to the use of multilayer paper materials that are not designed for efficient liquid pressure management.
Innovation Solution
A beverage preparation system with a multilayer paper pod structure, where the pod enclosing walls are made of paper and plastic layers, and an extraction device with movable parts that progressively pierce the pod walls under controlled pressure to ensure complete extraction without over-extraction or under-extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If multilayer paper material is used for biodegradability, then environmental compatibility is improved, but extraction quality deteriorates due to over-extraction or under-extraction
Solution Approach 1:
The pod wall is segmented into multiple layers with different properties: an outer biodegradable paper layer and an inner plastic layer facing the chamber. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function - the paper layer provides biodegradability while the plastic layer controls liquid penetration to ensure proper extraction
Solution Approach 2:
The pod is constructed using composite multilayer material combining paper and plastic layers. This composite structure resolves the contradiction by integrating the environmental benefits of paper with the functional advantages of plastic for controlled extraction
2Productivity
If opening elements pierce the pod wall completely from the start, then liquid can flow freely, but the pod structure loses integrity and extraction becomes uncontrolled
Solution Approach 1:
The opening elements perform a preliminary partial piercing action during pod insertion, creating initial openings in the outer paper layer while leaving the inner plastic layer intact. This preliminary action prepares the structure for controlled extraction without compromising overall integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The piercing process is dynamic and progressive: initially partial piercing during insertion, then complete piercing through pressure-induced inflation during extraction. This dynamic approach allows the pod structure to maintain integrity when needed and open fully when required
3Productivity
If pressure is applied early to open the pod, then extraction starts immediately, but the pod cannot maintain structural integrity during filling
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction process uses periodic action with distinct phases: first, partial piercing during insertion without full opening; second, pressure build-up while maintaining partial closure; third, complete opening through pressure-induced inflation. This periodic approach balances structural maintenance with extraction efficiency
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 system ensures consistent and optimal extraction of ingredients by controlling pressure and progressive opening of the pod walls, maintaining the integrity of the pod during filling and allowing for the production of high-quality beverages like coffee.
Implementation Method 1
the opening elements pierces partially only the multilayer paper material so that at least the layer of plastic of the multilayer paper material facing the internal part of the chamber of the pod is not pierced
Implementation Method 2
the opening elements pierces totally the multilayer paper material by relative engagement under the effect of the rise in pressure of the injected liquid in the pod and inflation of the second enclosing wall lid against the opening elements
Implementation Method 3
a liquid injector to supply liquid through the opened bottom wall
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a system comprising an extraction device of a beverage preparation machine and a pod, wherein —the pod comprises a pod body and a top lid, and —the extraction device comprises: —upstream and downstream pod enclosing parts relatively translatable between an open position for inserting and/or ejecting the pod and a closed position for forming an extraction chamber enclosing the pod during extraction, the downstream part comprising a downstream plane piercing arrangement for opening the lid of the pod, and wherein the body and the lid of the pod are made of a multilayer paper material comprising a layer of paper coated with at least a layer of plastic, and wherein the downstream piercing arrangement and the multilayer material of the second enclosing wall (32) of the pod are designed to enable a progressive piercing of the top lid.