Spout Indent Encoding for Beverage Pack Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible beverage sachets lack an efficient encoding system to provide information on the type of product and preparation parameters, making the beverage preparation device more complex and vulnerable to errors if primary identification means fail.
Innovation Solution
A spout with moveable parts featuring indents or bumps that configure a code based on resistance measurements, allowing the beverage preparation device to determine product type and processing parameters through motor torque analysis during preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If primary identification means (codes or identification means) are used to provide product information, then information transmission is achieved, but device complexity increases and vulnerability to damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a redundant copy of the identification system by encoding product information directly into the physical structure of the spout through indents and bumps. This secondary encoding system mirrors the function of primary identification means (codes, RFID tags) but uses a simpler, more durable mechanical format that the device can read through torque sensing during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spout structure itself serves dual purposes: it maintains its sealing function while simultaneously encoding product information through its physical geometry. The indents and bumps are integrated into the spout's manufacturing process, making the identification system self-contained within the component rather than requiring separate identification elements.
2Loss of information
If primary identification means are used, then product information is provided, but reliability decreases when codes are damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The invention prepares for potential failure of primary identification means by providing a backup encoding system that is inherently more durable. The mechanical indent/bump structure is resistant to damage compared to printed codes or electronic tags, ensuring that product information remains accessible even if the primary identification system is compromised.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional printed codes to three-dimensional mechanical features (indents and bumps) that can be sensed through torque measurements. This parameter change from visual/optical encoding to mechanical/tactile encoding creates a more robust identification system that survives physical stress and damage better.
3Loss of substance
If flexible packs are used instead of rigid capsules, then material usage and storage space are reduced, but encoding information becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The spout structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: maintaining the seal during storage, enabling product information encoding through integrated indents/bumps, and facilitating torque-based reading by the beverage preparation device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate encoding components that would add complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the sealing function of the spout with the information encoding function by integrating the indent and bump features directly into the spout body. This combination eliminates the need for separate identification elements, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining both sealing integrity and information transmission capabilities.
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
Simplifies the encoding process, enhances device functionality by providing reliable product information and parameters, and ensures accurate preparation even if primary identification means are damaged.
Implementation Method 1
the beverage preparation device to determine product type and processing parameters through motor torque analysis during preparation
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 1C~2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
The invention relates to a spout (10) comprising at least two parts (11, 12) relatively moveable with respect to each other such that at least one of the two parts (11, 12) of the spout comprise means presenting a measurable resistance to being connected to an engaging part of a beverage preparation device and/or to the relative movement of the two parts (11, 12) of the spout, these means further comprising one or a plurality of indents or bumps (40, 50). Further, the invention refers to a pack (100) for preparing a food or beverage product comprising a spout (10) as the one described and a container (30) configured to comprise a product to prepare the said food or beverage product, wherein the one or plurality of indents or bumps (40, 50) configure a code comprising the information on the product inside the container (30) and/or on the processing of the said product. Moreover, the invention relates to a system for preparing a food or beverage product comprising a pack as described comprising a product and a beverage preparation device that will introduce a fluid in the form of a jet inside the volume of the pack (100). The invention also refers to a method for preparing a food or beverage product from such a pack (100) in a system as the one described.