Portion Holder Retention Design for Single-Serve Beverage Systems
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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 mechanical wear and tear issues with hinged connections and the need for cost-effective production.
Innovation Solution
A portion holder with a container and lid portion featuring retention means on the sidewall, a hinged connection using bi-material injection molding for a simple and reliable construction, and elastically deformable materials for effective liquid sealing, allowing for ergonomic use and reduced environmental impact through compostable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a hinged connection is used to connect the lid part to the container part, then the device allows ergonomic operation and repeated use, but mechanical wear and tear occurs reducing reliability over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters of the hinged connection by using elastomeric material with specific durometer values (Shore A 40-70) to create a flexible yet durable connection that resists mechanical wear while maintaining ergonomic operation capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by integrating the hinged connection as part of the elastomeric sealing component, combining sealing functionality with hinged movement capability in a single composite element that reduces wear points
2Reliability
If traditional sealing materials are used in the portion holder, then liquid sealing is achieved, but environmental impact increases due to non-compostable materials
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material composition parameters by using compostable elastomeric materials that maintain the necessary physical properties (elasticity, sealing capability) while being environmentally degradable, thus achieving liquid sealing without compromising environmental sustainability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the portion holder to be disposed of in a compostable manner after use, eliminating the need for recycling or special waste processing, thereby reducing environmental impact while maintaining effective liquid sealing during the operational phase
3Reliability
If complex hinged connection mechanisms are used to ensure reliability, then mechanical strength is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the hinged connection function with the sealing component into a single integrated elastomeric element, eliminating separate mechanical hinges and reducing construction complexity while maintaining both mechanical strength and sealing reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric hinged connection performs multiple functions automatically: it provides the hinge mechanism, creates the seal, and maintains retention pressure without requiring additional mechanical components or complex assembly, thereby reducing overall device complexity
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 provides a reliable, ergonomic, and cost-effective beverage preparation system that minimizes environmental impact by using compostable materials and bi-material injection molding for durable and leak-proof connections, enhancing user convenience and reducing mechanical wear.
Implementation Method 1
retention means adapted so that can be elastically pressed inwards at a predefined retention position inside a portion receiving part
Implementation Method 2
container and lid portions featuring elastically deformable materials for effective liquid sealing
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) resents 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 retention of the portion holder (3) on the brewing apparatus (4).