Sliding Frothing Device for Compact Beverage Jug Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern coffee-producing machines with frothing devices for milk are often complex and cumbersome, making them difficult to store in refrigerators due to their size and design.
Innovation Solution
A movable frothing device integrated into a beverage jug that can be slid between retracted and extended positions, allowing for a compact footprint when stored and easy connection to coffee makers, with a steam inlet and frothed beverage outlet positioned for ergonomic use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the frothing device is made fixed and integrated into the jug, then the structure is simpler, but the footprint of the jug increases making refrigerator storage difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The frothing device is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to slide between a retracted position (reducing footprint for storage) and an extended position (enabling functionality during use). This dynamic configuration resolves the contradiction between structural simplicity and compact storage.
2Area of stationary object
If the frothing device is made movable to reduce footprint, then refrigerator storage becomes easier, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frothing device is separated from the main jug body as an independent movable component that can slide in and out. This segmentation allows the jug to maintain a compact form for storage while enabling the frothing function to be added only when needed, minimizing the impact on overall device complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If prior art jugs and frother devices are used, then frothing functionality is achieved, but the devices are complex and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The frothing device is merged with the jug as an integrated movable component rather than a separate device. This combination eliminates the need for separate frother devices and simplifies the overall system while maintaining full frothing functionality through the sliding 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 solution simplifies the manufacturing and use of the jug, reduces its footprint for easier storage, and provides a space-saving design while maintaining functionality for frothing and heating beverages, enhancing user experience and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
Hot, pressurized steam is delivered through the frothing device in order to suck milk from the jug, heat and optionally froth the milk with air
Implementation Method 2
The movable frothing device slides with a translation movement in a seat provided on the jug
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The jug (11) comprises jug body (15) and a beverage frothing device (13) arranged on the jug. The beverage frothing device comprises a steam inlet (23, 25, 27), a beverage inlet (35, 35C), and a frothed beverage outlet (14). The frothing device is slidingly arranged in a seat (19) and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. In the extended position the frothed beverage outlet (14) projects beyond a side wall of the jug body.