Portion capsule having an identifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portion capsules are not specifically designed for particular coffee machines, leading to safety issues and potential damage when used in incompatible machines.
Innovation Solution
A portion capsule with a deep-drawn base element and a membrane, featuring an identifier such as a barcode or optical properties on the edge area, which ensures compatibility with specific coffee machines by preventing insertion of unsuitable capsules and allowing only correct capsules to operate the machine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If an identifier is provided on the membrane side, then the capsule can be easily recognized by the coffee machine, but the identifier is at risk of damage during insertion and operation
Solution Approach 1:
The identifier is inverted from its conventional position on the membrane to the base element's outer surface. This inversion protects the identifier from damage during insertion and operation while maintaining its recognizability by the coffee machine's sensor/detection means. The base element provides a more robust substrate that is less susceptible to damage from the insertion process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If portion capsules are made compatible with multiple coffee machines, then versatility is improved, but safety problems and damage risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The coffee machine uses a sensor/detection means to read the identifier on the capsule and provides feedback by comparing it with stored reference identifiers. The machine controller only activates the pressure pump and brewing process when a match is confirmed. This feedback mechanism ensures that only compatible capsules can operate the machine, preventing safety problems and damage while maintaining versatility through standardized identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The identifier acts as an intermediary between the capsule and the coffee machine's control system. Rather than direct mechanical or electrical compatibility checks, the identifier serves as a communication medium that allows the machine to verify capsule suitability before operation, enabling versatile compatibility control without direct physical interference.
3Reliability
If mechanical means are provided in the insertion chute to prevent wrong capsules, then compatibility control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical verification systems with an optical/electronic identification system. Instead of using intricate mechanical means in the insertion chute to prevent wrong capsule insertion, the solution uses a sensor/detection means that reads the identifier and controls machine operation through electronic feedback. This substitution significantly reduces device complexity while maintaining or improving verification reliability.
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
Prevents damage to coffee machines by ensuring only compatible capsules are used, enhancing safety and ensuring proper beverage production by matching the capsule with the intended coffee machine.
Implementation Method 1
The identifier is preferably a surface area with different optical properties, for example reflection properties
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a portion capsule for the production of a beverage with a base element having a cavity in which a beverage raw material is provided and which is closed by a membrane which is attached to the base element.