Specialized Drip Coffee Machines for Niche Environments
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
This inventive concept adapts the original drip coffee machine design for use in specific, high-demand environments, such as high-security facilities, disaster relief, extreme weather conditions, high-altitude environments, and marine environments.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent for a drip coffee machine and liquid discharge device had limitations in its applicability to unique operational environments. This new concept addresses the need for specialized drip coffee machines that can function effectively in challenging conditions.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept comprises a liquid discharge device configured to discharge liquid to ground coffee beans, with additional features tailored to specific environments. For high-security facilities, the device includes a tamper-evident feature. For disaster relief, the device features a portable power source and water purification system. For extreme weather conditions, the device has a weather-resistant housing and heating element. For high-altitude environments, the device includes a pressure-regulation system. For marine environments, the device uses corrosion-resistant materials and a desalination system.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features that adapt the original design to specific niche environments, providing a non-obvious solution to the limitations of the original patent. The inventive step lies in the integration of these specialized features, which enable the drip coffee machine to function effectively in challenging conditions.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Other embodiments of the inventive concept could include adaptations for use in other unique environments, such as space exploration or medical facilities. Variations could also include different materials, sizes, or configurations of the liquid discharge device to suit specific requirements.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The specialized drip coffee machines have significant commercial potential in various industries, including government, disaster relief, hospitality, and marine services. The target market includes organizations and individuals operating in challenging environments, where a reliable and adapted coffee machine can provide a valuable amenity.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A47 | A47J31/4475 |
| A | A47 | A47J31/10 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Beverage preparation equipment, specifically drip coffee machines and liquid discharge mechanisms, requiring mechanical engineering and thermal fluid systems expertise
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A mechanical engineer with expertise in fluid handling systems, electromechanical design, and thermal regulation, familiar with coffee brewing technologies and environmental adaptation techniques
Obviousness Rationale
A person having ordinary skill would recognize that the source patent's fundamental liquid discharge mechanism can be readily adapted to specialized environments by incorporating known engineering techniques. The core mechanical principles of the original device remain consistent, with modifications representing predictable variations addressing specific operational constraints. These adaptations represent standard design practice for extending equipment functionality across diverse use cases.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,105 |
|---|---|
| Title | Drip coffee machine and liquid discharge device used therefor |
| Assignee(s) | Hanter Technology Co., Ltd. |