Portion Capsule Barcode Identifier for Machine Compatibility Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portion capsules are not specifically designed for particular coffee machines, leading to safety risks and potential damage when used in incompatible machines.

Innovation Solution

A portion capsule with a unique identifier that ensures compatibility with specific coffee machines, featuring a base element with a membrane, optional built-in elements like filters, and distinct optical or mechanical features to prevent incorrect capsule insertion, and a weakening mechanism to facilitate safe piercing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an identifier is placed on the lid film or outer wall of the capsule, then capsule identification is achieved, but the identifier is at risk of damage during insertion and handling

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveidentifier integrityVSAvoididentifier damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The identifier is extracted from the vulnerable lid film or outer wall surface and relocated to the base element, specifically in the base area that remains protected during insertion and handling operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The identifier position is changed from the vertical/lateral surfaces (lid film or outer wall) to the horizontal base area, utilizing a different spatial dimension that is less exposed to damage risks during machine insertion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If portion capsules are made similar and compatible with multiple machines, then manufacturing ease and market versatility improve, but safety risks and machine damage potential increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapsule compatibilityVSAvoidmachine damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The capsule design implements local differentiation through the identifier on the base element, allowing the majority of the capsule structure to remain similar for manufacturing efficiency while the specific base area provides machine-specific identification to prevent incompatible usage

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The identifier acts as an intermediary between the capsule and the coffee machine, enabling the system to verify compatibility before operation, thus preventing damage while allowing versatility in capsule design

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3521209B1Portion capsule with barcode

Publication Date: 2020.01.22 SOCIETE DES PRODUITS NESTLE SA

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AI summary

The present invention relates to a portion capsule 1 for producing a beverage, comprising a base element 2 with a cavity 3 containing a beverage raw material. The portion capsule has a rim (2.4) provided on the base element 2, and the cavity is closed by a membrane 4 attached to the rim 2.4 of the base element. The portion capsule has an identifier 5 that allows for individualization of each portion capsule, wherein the identifier is a barcode provided on the side of the rim 2.4 of the base element 2 facing away from the membrane, the membrane comprising a thin plastic or aluminum foil.