Pour-Over Brewer Motion Control for Consistent Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pour-over brewing techniques for coffee and tea are inefficient and inconsistent due to manual, labor-intensive processes, leading to variations in beverage quality and safety concerns for baristas.
Innovation Solution
A beverage brewing apparatus with a movable filter holder and nozzle that allows controlled movement and fluid delivery, optimizing fluid flow rate, temperature, and timing to ensure consistent brewing, while reducing ergonomic and safety hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual pour-over brewing is used, then beverage customization is achieved, but brewing consistency and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder is made movable relative to the nozzle, allowing dynamic adjustment of the filter position during brewing. This enables automated control of fluid flow paths while maintaining the ability to customize different brewing patterns, thereby improving consistency without sacrificing adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that monitor brewing parameters and adjust the filter holder position and fluid delivery accordingly. This feedback loop ensures repeatable brewing results while allowing for customized beverage preparations
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual pouring process is used, then beverage preparation flexibility is improved, but labor intensity and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus performs the pouring action automatically through the movable filter holder mechanism, eliminating the need for manual pouring by the barista. The system serves itself by controlling fluid delivery and filter positioning, reducing labor intensity while maintaining brewing flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical pouring action is replaced with an automated mechanical system consisting of a movable filter holder driven by motors or actuators. This substitution eliminates manual labor while preserving the ability to create various brewing patterns
3Device complexity
If fixed filter holder position is used, then apparatus simplicity is maintained, but fluid flow control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter holder transitions from a fixed to a movable position, enabled by simple mechanical components like sliders or rotational joints. This dynamic capability allows precise control of fluid flow paths without requiring complex automated systems, maintaining apparatus simplicity while improving precision
Data Source
AI summary
Shown is an apparatus for brewing a beverage, such as coffee, as well as associated methods for brewing a beverage. Apparatuses and methods are shown to reduce labor involved in pour-over brewing techniques, while providing greater consistency in the results. Manual and/or automatic movements are provided to a filter (e.g., rotation) and/or a nozzle dispensing liquid over the filter. Water dosage and timing therefore can be automated to the filter. The nozzle can be positioned off-center with respect to the filter to ensure wetting thereof. The nozzle can be made movable for constrained changes to the path of liquid flow relative to the rotating filter.