Brewing device with forced circulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion devices lack control over infusion duration, requiring user intervention and attention, and often result in either under- or over-infused beverages, with risks of staining and the need for external containers.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained infusion device with a container and infusion compartment connected by a loop circuit, featuring a timed valve to control water circulation, eliminating the need for user intervention and external containers, allowing for precise infusion duration without manual monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional infusion devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the infusion duration cannot be controlled and user intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-controlled infusion by using the natural cooling of water to automatically trigger the closing of the valve and stop circulation after a predetermined time, eliminating the need for external timers or complex control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses hydraulic principles by utilizing the thermal contraction and pressure changes of water as it cools to automatically actuate the valve mechanism, achieving automated control through fluid dynamics rather than mechanical or electronic systems
2Extent of automation
If user monitoring is required for infusion duration, then infusion quality can be controlled, but user attention is occupied and other activities are disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs self-timing of the infusion process by utilizing the natural cooling trajectory of the water to automatically stop circulation at the optimal moment, freeing the user to engage in other activities without compromising infusion quality
3Reliability
If material to be infused is withdrawn at the end of infusion, then over-infusion is prevented, but staining risks and need for external containers occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the infused material from the circulation system by automatically isolating it in the infusion chamber when the valve closes, separating the liquid beverage from the solid material to prevent staining while maintaining infusion quality
Solution Approach 2:
The valve acts as an intermediary mechanism that controls the separation between the infusion chamber and circulation system, enabling clean discontinuation of infusion without direct user handling of the material
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
Ensures efficient and precise infusion without user attention, preventing over-infusion and staining, and allowing for portability during the infusion process, making it simple, safe, and cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
propulsion means for forcing the circulation of water in said loop circuit
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a timed brewing device, which includes a container (1) combined with a base (2) with which the former communicates via a first passage (1c) provided in the bottom wall (1e) thereof. The base (2) includes a brewing compartment (3) receiving a removable chamber wall which is pervious to water and which is capable of receiving a material to be brewed. A transversely movable valve (4) enables the brewing chamber to be selectively placed in contact (3) with the inner space of the container (1) via the first passage (1c). The valve (4) is actuated by an actuating means, which moves the valve into the closed position after a predetermined amount of time. During brewing, a pump (21) intermittently circulates the brewed liquid between the bottom of the brewing compartment (3) and a second passage (1d) of the container (1).