System for detecting a filter holder in a dispensing assembly of a coffee machine.
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detection systems for filter holders in espresso coffee machines are unreliable and costly due to their complexity, maintenance requirements, and inability to function with bayonet coupling modes, leading to uncontrolled water ejection and increased production and maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A proximity sensor is integrated into the ring of the dispensing assembly, positioned at the stop point of the filter holder's rotation, to detect the correct insertion and fixation of the filter holder using bayonet coupling, eliminating the need for moving parts and simplifying installation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical sensors are used to detect the filter holder, then the presence can be detected, but the system becomes unreliable and requires continuous cleaning and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the detection function from the complex optical sensor system and implements it through a simple mechanical stop point detection. The proximity sensor is positioned at the stop point to detect only the final insertion position, eliminating the need for continuous monitoring and cleaning of optical paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive and maintenance-intensive optical sensors with a simple, robust proximity sensor system that has no moving parts and requires minimal maintenance. The detection system becomes more like a disposable or low-maintenance component.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If optical sensors are positioned in the work space under the dispensing assembly, then detection is possible, but the sensors are exposed to water jets, vapor, coffee drops, and powder requiring frequent cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a mechanical stop point as an intermediary between the filter holder and the proximity sensor. The stop point transfers the insertion information to the sensor without requiring the sensor to be directly exposed to the harsh work environment where water jets and coffee residues are present.
3Reliability
If a mobile element revolvingly mounted on the ring is used with a presence sensor, then the filter holder insertion can be detected, but the system becomes difficult to install, expensive to manufacture, and easy to break
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the detection function from the complex mobile element system and implements it through a fixed proximity sensor positioned at the stop point. This eliminates the need for revolving mobile elements and their associated mounting complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical revolving mobile element system with an electronic proximity sensor system. The mechanical complexity of mounting and maintaining revolving elements is substituted with a simple electronic detection system that has no moving parts.
4Ease of operation
If detection systems with moving parts are used, then the filter holder position can be detected, but the systems are easy to break and damage
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces mechanical detection systems with moving parts with an electronic proximity sensor system that has no moving parts. The proximity sensor detects the filter holder position through electromagnetic fields or other non-contact means, eliminating mechanical wear and breakage.
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 reliably detects the presence of the filter holder when correctly inserted, preventing uncontrolled water ejection, reducing maintenance needs, and lowering production costs by ensuring accurate and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
a proximity sensor (1) installed in the ring (2) in order to detect a correct fixing of the filter holder (3) to the ring (2)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
A system (D) for detecting the presence of a filter holder in a dispensing assembly of a coffee machine comprises: a ring (2) comprising an internal groove (21a, 21b), a filter holder (3) comprising a tab (34a, 34b) coupled with the groove (21a, 21b) and a proximity sensor (1); the groove (21a, 21b) has a semi-annular shape and is configured in such a way to receive the tab (34a, 34b) of the filter holder in bayonet coupling mode, wherein the filter holder is translated and rotated; said ring (2) comprises rotation stop means (M) suitable for stopping the rotation of the filter holder (3) in the ring (2) in a stop point (Pa); the proximity sensor (1) passes through the ring (2) and finishes in the stop point (Pa) of the groove (21a) of the ring.