Optical readable code support and capsule for preparing a beverage having such code support providing an enhanced readable optical signal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation machines face challenges in reliably reading optical codes on capsules due to difficult reading conditions, such as light energy loss and angular deviations, which affect the accuracy of capsule identification and brewing parameters.
Innovation Solution
An optically readable code support with a base structure of light-reflective surfaces and discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions, designed to maintain distinct reflectivity and absorbance properties, enabling improved signal readability even in rotating capsule conditions within beverage machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a barcode is printed on the capsule surface, then capsule identification is enabled, but light energy loss and angular deviations reduce reading accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The code support structure implements local quality by creating discrete light-absorbing portions (code symbols) on a light-reflective base structure. This local differentiation of optical properties (reflective vs. absorbing) at specific locations enables high-contrast binary code representation that maintains readability despite light energy loss during capsule rotation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies optical property changes by using surfaces with contrasting light interaction characteristics - light-reflective surfaces versus light-absorbing surfaces. This optical contrast creates distinct binary states (0 and 1) that enhance signal detectability and reading accuracy under varying light conditions and angular deviations.
2Reliability
If a barcode is printed on the capsule, then capsule type identification is possible, but reading reliability deteriorates under centrifugal rotation conditions
Solution Approach 1:
By creating localized light-absorbing portions on a uniformly light-reflective base, the invention ensures that code symbols maintain their optical contrast regardless of rotation angle. The discrete positioning of absorbing portions creates a stable binary pattern that can be reliably detected even when the capsule rotates during centrifugal extraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the optical parameters of the code support surface by using materials or treatments that create extreme differences in light reflectivity. This parameter optimization (maximizing reflectivity contrast) ensures that the optical signal remains strong and distinguishable under the harmful conditions of rotation and angular deviation.
3Measurement precision
If light-reflective and light-absorbing surfaces are used for code symbols, then optical signal readability is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the code support structure with the capsule packaging components (flange, rim, or lid). By integrating the code-bearing surface into existing structural elements rather than adding separate components, the solution enhances optical readability while minimizing manufacturing complexity. The base structure serves dual purposes: structural support and light-reflective background.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts only the essential code-forming elements (discrete light-absorbing portions) from a complete coating approach. Instead of applying complex multi-layer coatings across the entire surface, only specific discrete portions are treated to absorb light, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining high optical contrast for code readability.
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 solution enhances the readability of the optical signal and integrates easily into capsule packaging, allowing for robust and reliable code reading during centrifugal extraction, improving brewing accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the binary symbols are essentially formed of light reflective surfaces and light absorbing surfaces
Implementation Method 2
the discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions form the light-absorbing surfaces and the base structure forms the light-reflective surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
An optically readable code support to be associated with or be part of a capsule indented for delivering a beverage in a beverage producing device by centrifugation of the capsule, the support comprising at least one sequence of binary symbols represented on the support so that each symbol is sequentially readable by a reading arrangement of an external reading device while the capsule is driven in rotation along an axis of rotation, wherein the binary symbols are essentially formed of light reflective surfaces and light absorbing surfaces. The code support preferably comprises a base structure extending continuously at least along said sequence of symbols and discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions locally applied onto or formed at the surface of said base structure; wherein the discontinuous discrete light-absorbing portions form the light-absorbing surfaces and the base structure forms the light-reflective surfaces outside the surface areas occupied by the discrete light-absorbing portions: said discrete light-absorbing portions are arranged to provide a lower light-reflectivity than the one of the base structure outside the surface areas occupied by the discrete light-absorbing portions.