Beverage preparation systems and processes, including portion holder with enhanced single portion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beverage preparation systems face challenges in optimizing the use of single portion capsules, particularly in terms of ergonomic design, reliability, and environmental impact, as well as efficient flow distribution and liquid sealing, which are constrained by construction complexity and material costs.
Innovation Solution
A beverage preparation system featuring a portion holder with a compostable material confinement, optimized flow distribution through a concave flow-conducting wall with passageways, and a hinged connection using bi-material injection molding for a simple, reliable, and cost-effective design that ensures effective liquid sealing and ergonomic use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional swivelling connection is used for the lid part, then the portion holder can be opened and closed, but the construction becomes complex and reliability decreases due to intensive use
Solution Approach 1:
The portion holder is divided into a container part and a lid part that can be separately assembled and disassembled. The lid part is removably connected to the container part, allowing the user to open and close the lid without complex swivelling mechanisms. This segmentation simplifies the connection while maintaining operational ease and improving reliability through fewer moving parts.
2Strength
If metallic and plastic materials are used for single portion capsules, then the capsules can be manufactured with good structural properties, but environmental issues arise due to non-compostability
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses composite materials, specifically a biodegradable polymer matrix reinforced with natural fiber reinforcements. This composite structure provides the necessary mechanical strength and structural integrity for the capsule while being environmentally compostable, thus resolving the contradiction between strength and environmental harm.
3Volume of stationary object
If the collection space volume is maximized, then more beverage precursor substance can be held, but the flow distribution and liquid sealing become constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The lid part is designed with localized flow distribution features, including a flow distribution element with multiple outlet openings arranged in a specific pattern. This local quality enhancement ensures uniform water flow across the coffee bed while maintaining an optimized collection space volume. The sealing elements are also strategically positioned at critical locations to ensure reliable liquid sealing without compromising the overall volume.
4Device complexity
If a simple hinged connection is used, then construction complexity and costs are reduced, but ergonomic design and reliability are constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the lid part and container part is designed to be dynamically adjustable. The lid part can be easily attached and detached, and during operation, it can be opened to various angles for ergonomic access. This dynamic connection provides simplicity in construction while maintaining ease of operation and reliability through a robust yet flexible joining mechanism.
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 maximizes the volume for edible substances, enhances flow distribution, and provides reliable and cost-effective operation with improved ergonomic design and environmental sustainability by using compostable materials and bi-material injection molding for the portion holder.
Implementation Method 1
a lid part (32) peripherally hinged connected to the container part (31)
Implementation Method 2
said retention means (7) being adapted so that can be pressed inwards by elastic force
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention refers to systems and process associated with beverage preparation based upon the extraction of a single portion (1) of a pre-measured quantity of precursor substance in a brewing apparatus (4), whereby said single portion (1) presents a compostable confinement (2) and can be collected inside of a portion holder (3) that is adapted so that can be retained inside a cavity of said brewing apparatus (4). In particular, the present invention relates addresses the problem of ensuring effective and reliable operation of a single portion (1) in the portion holder (3).