Having formulated a clear vision for the sustainable coffee solution, the ideation phase starts with brainstorming. The ideas are evaluated and elaborated further starting with figuring out the mechanical working principles. Lastly the exterior appearance is designed, leading into a final concept.

Ideas to concept

Concept

At the end of this phase in the project the mechanism and outside appearance of the coffee machine has been designed. The machine works as follows: the user pulls back the lever, which opens up the brewing head. A coffee disc is inserted into the brewing head, following the brewing head is pushed back into the closed position. The user presses the button for their desired type of coffee, this being either espresso or lungo for the basic model. Following this, water from the water tank is fed into the pump, where the water is brought to a pressure of 19 bars. Next, the high pressure water is heated to 83 °C in the boiler. Finally, the hot water enters the brewing head, where it is forced through the coffee disc. For the upgraded version, there will be an integrated milk frother to expand the coffee drink options to latte, cappuccino and others.

Scheme of the concept


The design is made up of basic geometrical shapes that are integrated together with rounded edges. Button panel is on the top of the machine and water tank is removable for easier refilling, being able to be slit back into the slots.

Exterior design of concept

The single-portion system that is used, is now called discs as they are shaped like hockey discs. They will be made up of three layers: starting with cellulose film and chitin to decrease oxygen permeability. A mycelium layer is grown on the outside to help with water and moisture. The combination of these materials offers high quality coffee, while still preserving the environment.

Appearance of mycelium

Maloney, K. (2023, April 24). What’s mycelium? The unbelievable story of fungi’s underground mycelial network. MUD\WTR. https://mudwtr.com/blogs/trends-with-benefits/what-is-mycelium-the-story-of-the-mycelial-network

The reasoning behind the choice for disc material can be found in Appendix ‘’Materials research for discs.’’