MXPA05007875A

MXPA05007875A - Machine for the preparation of beverages.

Info

Publication number: MXPA05007875A
Application number: MXPA05007875A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Hansen Nick
Original assignee: Kraft Foods R & D Inc
Priority date: 2003-01-24
Filing date: 2004-01-23
Publication date: 2005-11-17
Also published as: BRPI0406867A; JP4982464B2; JP2009006184A; KR20050107745A; WO2004064582A3; KR101116526B1; JP2015083194A; PL377929A1; NO20053937L; JP4402687B2; CA2513888A1; JP2012035119A; JP2014028251A; PL207086B1; JP5404747B2; WO2004064582A2; JP5777676B2; AU2004206096A1; NO20053937D0; JP6051199B2

Abstract

A closure mechanism for a beverage preparation machine (201) comprising a fixed lower part (255) and an upper part (256) rotatable relative to the lower part, the upper part being moveable from an open position, in which the upper part is disengaged from the lower part, and a closed position, in which the upper part is engaged with the lower part, the closure mechanism further comprising a clamping lever (280) operable to retain the upper part in the closed position, wherein the clamping lever comprises a first member (281) being pivotably connected at a first pivot (283) to the upper part (256) and a second member (282) having a first end pivotable about a second pivot (285), an end of the first member (281) and a second end of the second member (282) being pivotably connected together at a third pivot (286) such that the clamping lever has first and second positions of stability, wherein on operation of the clamping lever to move the upper part from the open position to the closed position the clamping lever moves from the first to the second position of stability.

Description

MACHINE FOR THE PREPARATION OF BEVERAGES Description The present invention relates to a machine for the preparation of beverages and, in particular, for use with sealed cartridges which are formed from materials substantially impermeable to air and water and which contain one or more ingredients for the preparation of beverages . It has previously been proposed to seal beverage preparation ingredients in individual air-impermeable packages for use in beverage machines. For example, cartridges or capsules containing compacted ground coffee are known for use in certain coffee preparation machines which are generally referred to as "espresso" machines. In the production of coffee using these preparation machines the coffee cartridge is placed in a coffee preparation chamber and hot water is passed through the cartridge at relatively high pressures, thereby extracting the aromatic constituents of the coffee. Typically, such machines operate at a pressure of more than 6 x 105 Pa. The preparation machines of the type described have been relatively expensive to date because the components of the machine, such as water pumps and seals, must withstand high pressures. In WO 01/58786 a cartridge is described for the Beverage preparation that operates at a pressure generally in the range of 0.7 to 2.0 x 105 Pa. However, the cartridge is designed for use in a beverage preparation machine for the commercial or industrial market and is relatively expensive. In addition, the beverage filter cartridge holder of WO 01/58786 comprises inlet and outlet probes which pierce, in use, a beverage cartridge. The inlet and outlet probes are carried out by a plate that is permanently mounted by means of a ball joint to a pneumatic cylinder. The entry and exit probes are difficult to access and therefore difficult to maintain and, in particular, to clean. Therefore, a requirement remains for a cartridge for the preparation of beverages where the cartridges and the beverage preparation machine are suitable, in particular, for the domestic market in terms of cost, performance and reliability. There is also a need for a beverage preparation machine for such cartridges that is simple to operate and reliable in operation. In particular, the means for inserting and removing the beverage cartridge must be simple to operate and provide a reliable seal force to maintain pressure within the beverage cartridge during a dispensing cycle. Separately or in addition, means are required to provide a reliable and known sealing force to withstand pressure within the beverage cartridge during a dispensing cycle. Separately or in addition, it is desirable that the machine be just for keep . Accordingly, the present invention provides a closing mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a fixed lower part and an upper part capable of rotating relative to the lower part, the upper part being movable from an open position, and a closed position, in which the upper part is linked to the lower part, the closing mechanism further comprising an operable grip lever for retaining the upper part in the closed position, where the grip lever comprises a first member being connected pivotally to a pivot first with the upper part and a second member having a first end pivotable about a second pivot, one end of the first member and a second end of the second member being pivotally connected together in a third pivot, such that the lever of grip have first and second stability positions, where in the operation of the grip lever pa To move the top of the open position to the closed position the grip lever moves from the first position to the second stability position. The closure mechanism of the present invention provides a reliable and inexpensive mechanism for inserting and removing a beverage cartridge within and from a beverage preparation machine. The mechanism can be operated by one hand and does not require electrical power. Complicated lever arrangements they are avoided. Preferably the gripping lever comprises at least one hook member for attaching a detent to the bottom part. Preferably, in the first stability position the third pivot rests on a first side of a reference line joining the first and second pivot points. In the second stability position the third pivot rests on a second side of a reference line joining the first and second pivot points. Typically the first side of the reference line is the one closest to the fixed bottom and the second side of the reference line is the furthest from the bottom fixed. Preferably, the first end of the second member is pivotally connected to the lower part. The second member may comprise a reciprocal member. The reciprocal member preferably comprises a cylinder, a rod received in said cylinder and a resilient sleeve for biasing said rod towards an extended configuration. Movement of the grip lever from the first position to the second stability position is accommodated by deformation of the resilient sleeve. Preferably, the first member of the grip lever comprises a U-shaped arm extending around a front side of the beverage preparation machine. Typically, the grip mechanism comprises two second members, one on each side of the beverage preparation machine. Advantageously, the closing mechanism further comprises a cartridge holder interposed between the lower part and the upper part and being able to rotate relative to the lower part and the upper part. In this case rotation of the upper part towards the lower part causes the upper part to attach to the cartridge holder and move the cartridge holder towards the lower part and, at the same time, cause, in use, perforation means of entry and the exit perforation means provided in the lower part for piercing a cartridge received in the cartridge holder. Reliable and accurate positioning of the beverage cartridge is ensured by means of the cartridge assembly. In addition, the cartridge assembly automatically disconnects the beverage cartridge from the inlet and outlet drills when opening. This mostly increases the ease of removal of the cartridge and ensures that the inlet and outlet perforators are below the level of the cartridge assembly when a consumer inserts his hand. This reduces the likelihood that the consumer will hurt himself. The present invention also provides a closing mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a lower part and an upper part, the upper part and the lower part being movable relative to one another. open position in which a beverage cartridge can be received in the closing mechanism and a closed position in which the beverage cartridge is held in a fixed manner between the upper part and the lower part, where in the closed position the mechanism of closure makes contact with an upper surface and a lower surface of the beverage cartridge at or near a center of the beverage cartridge to exert a compression force of more than 50 N. The closure mechanism of the present invention provides an extremely robust mechanism which firmly holds the beverage cartridge in the beverage preparation machine. The grip force of more than 50 N ensures that the cartridge does not expand and leak or explode during the operation. In addition, the applied compression force acts to prevent failure, or relative movement, of the components of the beverage cartridge. The compression force also serves to tighten the component or components of the cartridge together. This ensures that the internal dimensions of the passages and openings in the cartridge are fixed and are unable to change during pressurization of the cartridge. The closing mechanism can exert a compression force of more than 130 N. Preferably, the closing mechanism exerts a compression force of approximately 200 N. Preferably, the closing mechanism also makes contact with a peripheral flange of the beverage cartridge. In addition, the closing mechanism can make contact with a larger surface of the beverage cartridge. Preferably, the closure mechanism further comprises a resilient member that contacts at least a portion of the upper surface of the beverage cartridge. The resilient member can be a crooked member. Preferably, the twisted member is an observation window. Preferably, the lower portion may comprise a raised portion that contacts a central portion of the lower surface of the beverage cartridge. The lifted portion ensures that the majority of the compressive force applied to the cartridge is transferred upward to the upper surface of the cartridge through the central region of the cartridge. A load-bearing member is preferably provided in this central region in the cartridge. Preferably, the lower part is fixed and the upper part can be rotated relative to the lower part from the open position to the closed position. Preferably the closing mechanism further comprises a cartridge assembly interposed between the lower part and the upper part and being able to rotate relative to the lower part and the upper part to receive, in use, the beverage cartridge. The present invention also provides a mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a fixed lower part, an upper part capable of rotating relative to the lower part and a cartridge holder interposed between the lower part and the upper part and being able to rotate in relation to the lower part and the upper part, wherein the lower part comprises input perforation means and output perforation means to form, respectively, an inlet and an outlet, in use, in a cartridge received in the cartridge holder, where the rotation of the upper part towards the lower part causes the upper part to attach to the cartridge holder and move the cartridge holder to contact the lower part and at the same time to cause, in use, the means of inlet drilling and the output piercing means pierce a cartridge received in the cartridge holder. The closure mechanism of the present invention provides a reliable and inexpensive mechanism for inserting and removing a beverage cartridge in and from a beverage preparation machine. The mechanism can be operated by one hand and does not require electrical power. Complicated lever arrangements are avoided. In addition, reliable and accurate positioning of the beverage cartridge is ensured by means of the cartridge holder. In addition, the cartridge assembly automatically disconnects the beverage cartridge from the inlet and outlet drills when opening. This greatly increases the ease of removal of the cartridge and ensures that the entry and exit perforators are below the level of the cartridge assembly when a consumer inserts his hand. This reduces the likelihood that the consumer will hurt himself. Preferably, the upper part is movable between an open position for receiving a cartridge in the cartridge holder and a closed position in which the cartridge holder is in contact with the lower part. Preferably, in the open position the upper part is oriented substantially vertically. This allows for improved access with the cartridge assembly for ease of inserting and removing the cartridge. In the closed position the upper part is oriented horizontally. Preferably, the cartridge holder comprises a recess for receiving the cartridge. The recess may comprise an irregularity to prevent rotation of a cartridge received in the recess. Preferably, the cartridge holder is inclined relative to the fixed lower part such that in an open position with the upper part disengaged from the lower part and the cartridge holder, the cartridge holder disengages from the lower part. In addition, in the open position, the cartridge holder can be disengaged from the inlet piercing means and the outlet piercing means. The present invention also provides a machine for preparing beverages for preparing a beverage from a cartridge containing one or more beverage ingredients comprising a perforating element first to form an inlet, in use, in a cartridge received in the beverage preparation machine and a beverage element; second perforation to form an outlet, in use, in said cartridge, characterized in that the first and second perforation elements are formed as a single removable unit. The removable unit containing the inlet perforator and the outlet perforator allows for easy cleaning of the machine components. In particular, the perforators can be placed in a dishwasher or the like. Preferably, the beverage preparation machine further comprises a fixed lower part and an upper part capable of rotating relative to the lower part, the upper part being movable from an open position, in which the upper part disconnects from the part lower to receive a cartridge, and a closed position, in which the upper part is linked to the lower part, where the removable unit is mounted, in use, in the fixed lower part. Preferably, the inlet piercer and the outlet piercer are oriented vertically and parallel to each other. Preferably, the inlet piercer and the outlet piercer are made of plastic materials. It will be understood that by the term "cartridge" as used herein is meant any package, container, sack or receptacle that contains one or more beverage ingredients in the manner described. The cartridge can be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible. The cartridge for use with the present invention may contain one or more beverage ingredients suitable for the formation of a beverage product. The beverage product can be, for example, one of coffee, tea, chocolate or a dairy-based beverage including milk. The beverage ingredients can be powdered, ground, leaf-based or liquid. Examples include roasted and ground coffee, leaf tea, chocolate and soup powder, liquid milk-based drinks and concentrated fruit juices. In the following description the terms "upper" and "lower" and equivalents will be used to describe the relative positioning of characteristics of the invention. The terms "upper" and "lower" and equivalents shall be understood with reference to the cartridge (or other components) in its normal orientation for insertion into a beverage preparation and subsequent dispensing machine as shown, for example, in Figure 4 In particular, "upper" and "lower" refer, respectively, to relative positions closer or further away from an upper surface 11 of the cartridge. In addition, the terms "interior" and "exterior" and equivalents will be used to describe the positioning relative of characteristics of the invention. The terms "interior" and "exterior" and equivalents shall be understood with reference to relative positions in the cartridge (or other components) being, respectively, closer or further away from a center or major axis X of the cartridge 1 (or other component) . Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a cross-sectional drawing of an outer member of first and second embodiments of a cartridge for use with the present invention; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the outer member of Figure 1 showing a cylindrical extension directed inwardly; Figure 3 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the outer member of Figure 1 showing a groove; Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of Figure 1; Figure 5 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of Figure 1 in an inverted orientation; Figure 6 is a plan view from above of the outer member of Figure 1; Figure 7 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner member of the first embodiment of the cartridge; Figure 8 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of figure 7; Figure 9 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 7 in an inverted orientation; Figure 10 is a plan view from above of the inner member of Figure 7; Figure 11 is a cross-sectional drawing of the first embodiment of the cartridge in an assembled condition; Figure 12 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner member of the second embodiment of the cartridge; Figure 13 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the inner member of Figure 12 showing an opening; Figure 14 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 12; Fig. 15 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Fig. 12 in an inverted orientation; Figure 16 is another cross-sectional drawing of the inner member of Figure 12; Figure 17 is a cross-sectional drawing of another detail of the inner member of Figure 12 showing an air inlet; Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional drawing of the second embodiment of the cartridge in a condition assembled Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional drawing of an outer member of third and fourth embodiments of the cartridge for use with the present invention; Figure 20 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the outer member of Figure 19 showing a cylindrical extension directed inwardly; Figure 21 is a plan view showing above the outer member of Figure 19; Figure 22 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of Figure 19; Figure 23 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of Figure 19 in an inverted orientation; Figure 24 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner member of the third embodiment of the cartridge; Figure 25 is a plan view from above of the inner member of Figure 24; Figure 26 is a cross-sectional drawing of a detail of the inner member of Figure 24 showing an upper edge turned inward; Figure 27 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 24; Figure 28 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 24 in an inverted orientation. gives; Figure 29 is a cross-sectional drawing of the third embodiment of the cartridge in an assembled condition; Figure 30 is a cross-sectional drawing of an inner member of the fourth embodiment of the cartridge; Figure 31 is a plan view from above of the inner member of Figure 30; Figure 32 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 30; Figure 33 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 30 in an inverted orientation; Figure 34 is a cross-sectional drawing of the fourth embodiment of the cartridge in an assembled condition; Figure 35 is a front perspective view of a beverage preparation machine according to the present invention; Figure 36 is a front perspective view of the machine of Figure 35 with a cartridge head in an open position; Figure 37 is a rear perspective view of the machine of Figure 35 with some parts omitted for clarity; Figure 38 is another rear perspective view of the machine of Figure 35 with some parts omitted for clarity; Figure 39 is a perspective view of the cartridge head of the machine of Figure 35 with some parts omitted for clarity; Figure 40 is another perspective view of the cartridge head of the machine of Figure 35 with some parts omitted for clarity; Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge head in a closed position; Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view of the cartridge head in an open position; Figure 43 is a schematic plan of the machine of Figure 35; Figures 44a and 44b are schematic drawings of the first and second code recognition means for the machine of Figure 35; and Figure 45 is a plan view of a beverage of the present invention comprising a bar code. As shown in Figure 11, the cartridge 1 of the present invention generally comprises an outer member 2, an inner member 3 and a laminate 5. The outer member 2, the inner member 3 and the laminate 5 are assembled to form the cartridge 1, which has an interior 120 to contain one or more beverage ingredients, an inlet 121, an outlet 122 and a beverage flow path linking the inlet 121 with the outlet 122 and which passes through the interior 120. The inlet 121 and the outlet 122 are initially sealed by the laminate 5 and open in use by perforating or cutting the laminate 5. The beverage flow path is defined by inter-spatial relationships between the outer member 2, the inner member 3 and the laminate 5 as discussed below. Other components may optionally be included in the cartridge 1, such as a filter 4, as will be described further below. A first version of the cartridge 1 which will now be described for background purposes is shown in Figures 1 to 11. The first version of the cartridge 1 is particularly designed for use in dispensing filtered products such as roasted or ground coffee or leaf tea. However, this version of the cartridge 1 and the other versions described below can be used as other products such as chocolate, coffee, tea, sweeteners, cordials, flavorings, alcoholic beverages, flavored milk, fruit juices, milkshakes, sauces and desserts. As can be seen from FIG. 5, the overall shape of the cartridge 1 is generally circular or disc-shaped with the diameter of the cartridge 1 being significantly greater than its height. A major axis X passes through the center of the outer member as shown in figure 1. Typically the The overall diameter of the outer member 2 is 74.5 mm ± 6 mm and the overall height is 16 mm + 3 mm. Typically, the volume of cartridge 1 when assembled is 30.2 ml + 20%. The outer member 2 generally comprises a bowl-shaped shell 10 having a curved annular wall 13, a closed upper part 11 and an open lower part 12. The diameter of the outer member 2 is smaller in the upper part 11 compared to the diameter at the bottom 12, resulting from an inflammation of the annular wall 13 as it passes from the closed upper part 11 to the open lower part 12. The annular wall 13 and the closed lower part 11 together define a receptacle having an interior 34. A Cylindrical extension 18 directed inwards, hollow, is provided in the closed upper part 11 centered on the major axis X. As shown more clearly in Figure 2, the cylindrical extension 18 comprises a stepped profile having first, second and third portions 19 , 20 and 21. The first portion 19 is straight circular cylindrical. The second portion 20 is frusto-conical in shape and tapers inwardly. The third portion 21 is another straight circular cylinder and is closed by a lower face 31. The diameter of the first, second and third portions 19, 20 and 21 decreases incrementally such that the diameter of the cylindrical extension 18 decreases as it passes the upper part 11 to the closed bottom face 31 of the cylindrical extension 18. A support 32 generally horizontal is form in the cylindrical extension 18 at the junction between the second and third portions 20 and 21. An outwardly extending support 33 is formed in the outer member 2 toward the bottom 12. The support 33 extending outwardly forms a secondary wall 15 corresponding to axial with the annular wall 13 such that it defines an annular rail forming a manifold 16 between the secondary wall 15 and the annular wall 13. The manifold 16 passes around the circumference of the outer member 2. A series of slots 17 is provided in the wall annular 13 flush with the manifold 16 to provide gas and liquid communication between the manifold 16 and the interior 34 of the outer member 2. As shown in Figure 3, the slots 17 comprise vertical slits in the annular wall 13. Between 20 and 40 slots are provided. In the shown embodiment thirty-seven slots 17 are generally provided equidistantly around the circumference of manifold 16. Slots 17 are preferably between 1.4 and 1.8 mm in length. Typically the length of each slot is 1.6 mm representing 10% of the overall height of the outer member 2. The width of each slot is between 0.25 and 0.35 mm. Typically, the width of each slot is 0.3 mm. The width of the slots 17 is sufficiently narrow to prevent beverage ingredients from passing through it within the manifold 16 either during storage or in use. An entry chamber 26 is formed in the member outer 2 at the periphery of the outer member 2. A cylindrical wall 27 is provided, as is more clearly shown in Figure 5, which defines the inlet chamber 26 within, and part the inlet chamber 26, the interior 34 of the outer member 2. The cylindrical wall 27 has a closed upper face 28 which is formed in a plane perpendicular to the major ee X and an open lower end 29 co-planar with the bottom 12 of the outer member 2. The inlet chamber 26 communicates with manifold 16 by two slots 30 as shown in figure 1. Alternatively, between one and four slots can be used to communicate between manifold 16 and inlet chamber 26. A lower end of support 33 extending outwardly is provided with a flange 35 extending outwardly which extends perpendicularly to the major axis X. Typically the flange 35 has a width of between 2 and 4 mm. A portion of the flange 35 is elongated to form a handle 24 by which the outer member 2 can be held. The handle 24 is provided with an upturned edge 25 for improved grip. The outer member 2 is formed as a single integral piece from high density polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyester, or a laminate of two or more of these materials. A suitable polypropylene is in the range of available polymers from DSM UK Limited (Redditch, United Kingdom). The outer member may be opaque, transparent or translucent.

The manufacturing process can be injection molded. The inner member 3 as shown in Figures 7 to 10, comprises an annular frame 41 and a cylindrical funnel 40 extending downwards. A major axis X passes through the center of the inner member 3 as shown in Figure 7. As best seen in Figure 8, the annular frame 41 comprises an outer edge 51 and an inner hub 52 joined by ten equally spaced radial spokes 53. The inner hub 52 is integral with and extends from the cylindrical funnel 40. Filtering apertures 55 are formed in the annular frame 41 between the radial spokes 53. A filter 4 is arranged in the annular frame 41 such that it covers the filtration openings 55. The filter is preferably made from a material with a high wet strength, for example a non-woven polyester fiber material. Other materials that can be used include a water-impermeable cellulosic material, such as a cellulosic material comprising woven paper fibers. The paper fibers can be mixed with polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and / or polyethylene fibers. The incorporation of these plastic materials within the cellulosic material makes the cellulosic material capable of being sealed with heat. The filter 4 can also be treated or coated with a material that is activated by heat and / or pressure such that it can be sealed to the annular frame 41 in this manner. As shown in the cross section profile of 7, the inner hub 52 is located in a lower position than the outer edge 51, resulting in the annular frame 41 having a sloping lower profile. The upper surface of each ray 53 is provided with an upstanding network 54 that divides an empty space on the annular frame 41 towards a plurality of passages 57. Each passage 57 is linked on each side by a network 54 and on a lower face by the filter 4. The passages 57 extend from the outer edge 51 downwards towards, and open in, the cylindrical funnel 40 in openings 56 defined by the inner ends of the networks 54. The cylindrical funnel 40 comprises an outer tube 42 surrounding a inner discharge tube 43. The outer tube 42 forms the outside of the cylindrical funnel 40. The discharge tube 43 is attached to the outer tube 42 at an upper end of the discharge tube 43 by means of an annular flange 47. The discharge tube 43 comprises an inlet 45 at an upper end communicating with the openings 56 of the passages 57 and a departure 44 at a lower end through which the prepared beverage is discharged into a cup or other receptacle. The discharge tube 43 comprises a frusto-conical portion 48 at an upper end and a cylindrical portion 58 at a lower end. The cylindrical portion 58 may have a light taper such that it tapers toward the outlet 44. The frusto-conical portion 48 helps channel the beverage from the passages 57 downward to the outlet 44 without inducing turbulence to the drink. An upper surface of the frusto-conical portion 48 is provided with four support networks 49 equidistant around the circumference of the cylindrical funnel 40. The support networks 49 define channels 50 therebetween. The upper edges of the support networks 49 are flush with each other and perpendicular to the major axis X. The inner member 3 can be formed as a single integral piece of polypropylene or a similar material as described above and by injection molding in the same manner as the outer member 2. Alternatively, the inner member 3 and / or the outer member 2 can be made of a biodegradable polymer. Examples of suitable materials include degradable polyethylene (eg, SPITEK supplied by Symphony Environmental, Borehamwood, United Kingdom), biodegradable polyester amide (eg, BAK 1095 supplied by Symphony Environmental), poly (lactic acid) (PLA supplied by Cargil, Minnesota, United States), starch-based polymers, cellulose derivatives and polypeptides. The laminate 5 is formed of two layers, a first layer of aluminum and a second layer of forged polypropylene. The aluminum layer is between 0.02 and 0.07 mm thick. Forged polypropylene layer is between 0.025 and 0.065 mm thick. In one embodiment, the aluminum layer is 0.06 mm and the polypropylene layer is 0.025 mm thick. This laminate is particularly advantageous since it has a high resistance to rolling during assembly. As a result the laminate 5 can be pre-cut to the correct size and shape and subsequently transferred to the assembly station in the production line without being distorted. Consequently, the laminate 5 is particularly well suited for welding. Other laminated materials can be used including PET / aluminum / PP, PE / EVOH / PP, PET / metallized / PP and aluminum / PP laminates. Rolled roll material can be used in place of die-cut material. The cartridge 1 can be closed by a rigid or semi-rigid lid instead of a flexible laminate. The assembly of the cartridge 1 involves the following steps: a) the inner member 3 is inserted inside the outer member 2; b) the filter 4 is cut to the shape and placed on the inner member 3 such that it is received on the cylindrical funnel 40 and comes to rest against the annular frame 41; c) the inner member 3, the outer member 2 and the filter 4 are joined by ultrasonic welding; d) the cartridge 1 is filled with one or more beverage ingredients; e) the laminate 5 is fixed to the outer member 2. These steps will be discussed in more detail below.

The outer member 3 is oriented with the open bottom 12 directed upwards. The inner member 3 is then inserted inside the outer member 2 with the outer edge 51 being received as a loose fit in the axial extension 14 in the upper part 11 of the cartridge 1. The cylindrical extension 18 of the outer member 2 is at the same time received in the upper portion of the cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner member 3. The third portion 21 of the cylindrical extension 18 sits inside the cylindrical funnel 40 with the closed bottom face 31 of the cylindrical extension 18 resting against the support networks 49 of the member 3. The filter 4 is then placed on the inner member 3 such that the filter material makes contact with the annular edge 51. An ultrasonic welding process is then used to join the filter 4 with the inner member 3 and at the same time, and in the same process step, the inner member 3 with the outer member 2. The inner member 3 and the filter 4 are welded around the outer edge 51. The inner member 3 and the outer member 2 are joined by means of lines of welding around the outer edge 51 and also the upper edges of the networks 54. As shown more clearly in Figure 11, the outer member 2 and the inner member 3 when joined together define an empty space 130 inside 120 below the annular flange 41 and the exterior of the cylindrical funnel 40 forming a filtration chamber. The filtration chamber 130 and the passages 57 on the annular frame 41 are separated by the filter paper 4. The filtration chamber 130 contains the one or more beverage ingredients 200. The one or more beverage ingredients are packed in the filtration chamber 130. For a beverage of filtered style, the ingredient is typically roasted and ground coffee or leaf tea. The density of the packaging of the beverage ingredients in the filtration chamber 130 can be varied as desired. Typically, for a filtered coffee product the filtration chamber contains between 5.0 and 10.2 grams of roasted and ground coffee in a filtration bed of thickness of typically 5 to 14 mm. Optionally, the interior 120 may contain one or more bodies, such as spheres, that are freely movable within the interior 120 to aid mixing by introducing turbulence and tearing up deposits of beverage ingredients during the discharge of the beverage. The laminate 5 is then fixed to the outer member 2 by means of forming a weld 126 around the periphery of the laminate 5 to join the laminate 5 to the lower surface of the outwardly extending flange 35. The weld 126 extends to seal to the laminate 5 against the lower edge of the cylindrical wall 27 of the inlet chamber 26. Furthermore, a weld 125 is formed between the laminate 5 and the lower edge of the outer tube 42 of the cylindrical funnel 40. The laminate 5 forms the bottom wall of the filtration chamber 130 and also it seals the inlet chamber 26 and the cylindrical funnel 40. However, a small clearance 123 exists prior to dispensing between the laminate 5 and the lower edge of the discharge tube 43. A variety of welding methods can be used, such as welding with heat and ultrasonic, depending on the characteristics of the material of the laminate 5. Advantageously, the inner member 3 spans between the outer member 2 and the laminate 5. The inner member 3 is formed from a material of relative stiffness, such as polypropylene . As such, the inner member 3 forms a load bearing member that acts to keep the laminate 5 and the outer member 2 apart when the cartridge 1 is compressed. It is preferred that the cartridge 1 be subjected to a compression load of between 130 and 280 N in use. The compressive force acts to prevent the cartridge from falling under internal pressurization and also serves to tighten the inner member 3 and the outer member 2 together. These ensure that the internal dimensions of passages and openings in the cartridge 1 are fixed and are unable to change during the pressurization of the cartridge 1. To use the cartridge 1, it is first inserted into a beverage preparation machine (which will be described in more detail herein) and the inlet 121 and outlet 122 are opened by piercing members of the beverage preparation machine that pierce and bend the laminate 5. An aqueous medium, typically water, under pressure enters the cartridge 1 through the inlet 121 into the inlet chamber 26 at a pressure of between 0.1-2.0 bar. From there the water is directed to flow through the slots 30 and around the manifold 16 and into the filtration chamber 130 of the cartridge 1 through the plurality of slots 17. The water is forced radially inwardly through the filtration chamber 130 and mixed with the beverage ingredients 200 contained therein. The water is at the same time forced upwards through the beverage ingredients. The beverage formed by the passage of water through the beverage ingredients passes through the filter 4 and the filtering apertures 55 towards the passages 57 resting on the annular frame 41. The sealing of the filter 4 over the rays 53 and the welding of the edge 51 with the outer member 2 ensures that there are no short circuits and that all the beverage has to pass through the filter 4. The beverage then flows down along the radial passages 57 formed between the networks 54 and through the openings 56 and inside the cylindrical funnel 40. The beverage passes along the channels 50 between the support networks 47 and down the discharge tube 43 to the outlet 44 where the beverage is discharged into a receptacle such as a Cup. Preferably, the beverage preparation machine comprises an air purge facility, where compressed air is forced through the cartridge 1 at the end of the dispensing cycle to empty the remaining beverage into the receptacle.

A second version of the cartridge 1 is shown in figures 12 to 18. The second version of the cartridge 1 is particularly designed for use in dispensing espresso-style products such as roasted and ground coffee where it is desirable to produce a beverage having a small bubble foam known as a cream. Many of the features of the second version of cartridge 1 are the same as in the first version and similar numbers have been used to refer to similar features. In the following description the differences between the first and second versions will be discussed. Common characteristics which will work in the same way will not be discussed in detail. The outer member 2 is of the same construction as the first version of the cartridge 1 and as shown in figures 1 to 6. The annular frame 41 of the inner member 3 is the same as in the first version. Also, a filter 4 is arranged in the annular frame 41 such as to cover the filtering apertures 55. The outer tube 42 of the cylindrical funnel 40 is also as before. However, there is not a number of differences in the construction of the inner member 2 of the second version compared with the first version. As shown in Figure 16, the discharge tube 43 is provided with a partition 65 which extends partially upwards from the discharge tube 43 of the outlet 44. The partition 65 helps prevent dew and / or splash of the beverage as it leaves the discharge tube 43. The profile of the discharge tube 43 is also different and comprises a stepped profile with a different dog leg 66 near the upper end of the tube 43. An edge 67 is provided erect from of the annular flange 47 attaching the outer tube 42 to the discharge tube 43. The edge 67 surrounds the inlet 45 with the discharge tube 43 and defines an annular channel 69 between the edge 67 and the upper portion of the outer tube 42. The edge 67 is provided with an inwardly directed support 68. At a point around the circumference of the edge 67 an opening 70 is provided in the shape of a groove extending from an upper edge of the edge 67 to a marginally below the level of the support 68 as seen more clearly in figures 12 and 13. The slot has a width of 0.64 mm. An air inlet 71 is provided in the annular flange 47 circumferentially aligned with the opening 70 as shown in Figures 16 and 17. The air inlet 71 comprises an opening passing through the flange 47 such as to provide communication between a point above the flange 47 and the empty space below the flange 47 between the outer tube 42 and the discharge pipe 43. Preferably, as shown, the air inlet 71 comprises an upper frusto-conical portion 73 and a portion lower cylindrical 72. The air inlet 71 typically is formed by a tool of molded such as a pin. The tapered profile of the air inlet 71 allows the molding tool to be more easily removed from the molded component. The wall of the outer tube 42 in the vicinity of the air inlet 71 is configured to form a duct 75 leading from the air inlet 71 to the inlet 45 of the discharge tube 43. As shown in Figure 17, a beveled support 74 is formed between the air inlet 71 and the duct 75 to ensure that the beverage jet emitted from the slot 70 does not immediately soil the upper surface of the flange 47 in the immediate vicinity of the air inlet 71. The assembly procedure for the second version of the cartridge 1 it is similar to the assembly of the first version. However, there are certain differences. As shown in Figure 18, the third portion 21 of the cylindrical extension 18 sits within the support edge 67 instead of against the support networks. The support 32 of the cylindrical extension 18 between the second portion 20 and the third portion 21 rest against the upper edge of the supporting edge 67 of the inner member 3. An interface area 124 is thus formed between the inner member 3 and the outer member 2 comprising a face seal between the extension cylindrical 18 and the supporting edge 67 that extends around almost the entire circumference of the cartridge 1. The seal between the cylindrical extension 18 and the supporting edge 67 is not fluid proof however since the slot 70 at the edge support 67 extends through the support edge 67 and down to a point marginally below the support 68. Consequently, the interface fit between the cylindrical extension 18 and the support edge 67 transforms the groove 70 towards an opening 128, as seen more Clear in Figure 18, providing gas and liquid communication between the annular channel 69 and the discharge tube 43. The aperture is typically 0.64 mm wide by 0.69 mm long. The operation of the second version of the cartridge 1 to dispense a drink is similar to the operation of the first version but with certain differences. The beverage in the radial passages 57 flows downwards along the passages 57 formed between the networks 54 and through the openings 56 and inside the annular channel 69 of the cylindrical funnel 40. From the annular channel 69 the beverage is forced under pressure through the opening 128 by the retropressure of the beverage collected in the filtration chamber 130 and the passages 57. The drink itself is forced through the opening 128 as a jet and into an expansion chamber formed by the upper end of the discharge tube 43. As shown in Fig. 18, the beverage jet passes directly over the air inlet 71. As the beverage enters the discharge tube 43 the pressure of the beverage jet falls off. As a result, air is incorporated into the beverage stream by entering air 71 in the form of a multitude of small air bubbles. The jet of drink issuing from the opening 128 is funneled down to outlet 44 where the beverage is discharged into a receptacle such as a cup where the air bubbles form the desired cream. Thus, the opening 128 and the air inlet 71 together form an ejector that acts to trap air in the beverage. The flow of beverage into the ejector should be kept as smooth as possible to reduce pressure losses. By selling, the walls of the ejector should be made concave to reduce losses due to the "wall effect" friction. The dimensional tolerance of the aperture 128 is small. Preferably the aperture size is set more or less 0.02 mm2. Bristles, fibrillations or other surface irregularities may be provided inside or at the outlet of the ejector to increase the effective cross-sectional area that has been found to increase the degree of air trapping. A third version of the cartridge 1 is shown in Figures 19 to 29. The third version of the cartridge 1 is particularly designed for use in dispensing soluble products which may be in the form of powder, liquid, syrup, gel or the like. The soluble product is dissolved by, or forms a suspension in, an aqueous medium such as water when the aqueous medium is passed, in use, through the cartridge 1. Examples of beverages include chocolate, coffee, milk, tea, soup or other re-hydratable or water soluble products. Many of the features of the third version of the cartridge 1 are the same as in the versions previous and similar numbers have been used to refer to similar characteristics. In the following description the differences between the third and previous versions will be discussed. Common characteristics that work in the same way will not be discussed in detail. Compared with the outer member 2 of the previous versions, the hollow, inwardly directed cylindrical extension 18 of the outer member 2 of the third version has a larger overall diameter as shown in Figure 20. In particular the diameter of the first portion 19 is typically between 16 and 18 mm compared to 13.2 mm for the outer member 2 of the previous versions. In addition, the first portion 19 is provided with a convex outer surface 19a, or sag, as more clearly shown in Figure 20, the function of which will be described below. The diameter of the third portions 21 of the cartridges 1 is however the same resulting in an area of the support 32 being larger in this, the third version of the cartridge 1. Typically the volume of cartridge 1 when assembled is 32.5 ml ± 20%. The number and positioning of the grooves in the lower end of the annular wall 13 is also different. Between 3 and 5 slits are provided. In the embodiment as shown in Figure 23, four slits 36 are provided equidistantly around the circumference of manifold 16. The slits 36 are slightly wider than in the previous versions of the cartridge 1 being between 0.35 and 0.45 mm, preferably 0.4 mm in width. In others, the outer members 2 of the cartridge 1 are the same. The construction of the cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner member 3 is the same as in the first version of the cartridge 1 with an outer tube 42, discharge tube 43, annular flange 47 and support networks 49 being provided. The only difference is that the discharge tube 43 is configured with an upper frusto-conical section 92? a lower cylindrical section 93. In contrast to the previous versions and as shown in figures 24 to 28, the annular frame 41 is replaced by a skirt portion 80 which surrounds the cylindrical funnel 40 and is joined thereto by means of eight radial struts 87 that join the cylindrical funnel 40 at or near the annular flange 47. A cylindrical extension 81 of the skirt portion 80 extends upwardly from the struts 87 to define a chamber 90 with an open top face. An upper edge 91 of the cylindrical extension 81 has an inwardly turned profile as shown in Figure 26. An annular wall 82 of the skirt portion 80 extends downwardly from the struts 87 to define an annular channel 86 between the portion of skirt 80 and the outer tube 42. The annular wall 82 comprises at an inferior end an outer flange 83 that lies perpendicular to the major axis X. edge 84 is downwardly dependent on a bottom surface of flange 83 and contains five apertures 85 that are circumferentially equidistant about edge 84. Thus, edge 84 is provided with a crenellated bottom profile. Openings 89 are provided between the struts 87 allowing communication between the chamber 90 and the annular channel 86. The assembly procedure for the third version of the cartridge 1 is similar to the assembly of the first version but with certain differences. The outer member 2 and the inner member 3 are snapped together as shown in Fig. 29 and are retained by means of a snap adjustment arrangement instead of being welded together. By joining the two members, the cylindrical extension 18 directed inward is received within the upper cylindrical extension 81 of the skirt portion 80. The inner member 3 is retained in the outer member 2 by frictional inter-bonding of the convex outer surface 19a of the first portion 19 of the cylindrical extension 18 with the turned-in edge 91 of the cylindrical extension 81. With the inner member 3 located in the outer member 2, a mixing chamber 134 is defined to be located outside the portion of skirt 80. The mixing chamber 134 contains the beverage ingredients 200 prior to dispensing. It should be noted that the four inlets 36 and the five openings 85 wobble circumferentially to each other. The radial location of the two parts relative to each other does not need to be determined.

Nose or fix during assembly since the use of the four inlets 36 and the five openings 85 ensures that misalignment occurs between inlets and openings whatever the relative rotational positioning of the components. The one or more beverage ingredients are packaged in the mixing chamber 134 of the cartridge. The density of the packaging of the beverage ingredients in the mixing chamber 134 can be varied as desired. The laminate 5 is then fixed to the outer member 2 and the inner member 3 in the same manner as described above in the previous versions. In use, water enters the mixing chamber 134 through four slots 36 in the same manner as previous versions of the cartridge. Forcing water radially inward through the mixing chamber and mixing with the beverage ingredients contained therein. The product dissolves or mixes in the water and forms the beverage in the mixing chamber 134 and is then carried through the openings 85 to the annular channel 86 by back pressure of drink and water in the mixing chamber 134. The The circumferential wobbling of the four inlet slots 36 and the five openings 85 ensures that the water jets are not able to pass radially directly from the four inlet slots 36 to the openings 85 without first circulating within the chamber. mixed 134. In this way the degree and consistency of the dissolution or mixing of product is significantly increased. The beverage is forced up into the annular channel 86, through the openings 89 between the struts 87 and inside the chamber 90. The beverage passes from the chamber 90 through the inlets 45 between the support networks 49 within the discharge tube 43 and to outlet 44 where the beverage is discharged into a receptacle such as a cup. The cartridge finds particular application with beverage ingredients in the form of liquids or viscous gels. In one application, a liquid chocolate ingredient is contained in cartridge 1 with a viscosity of between 1,700 and 3,900 mPa at room temperature and between 5,000 and 10,000 mPa at 0 ° C and refractive solids of 67 Brix ± 3. In another application , liquid coffee is contained in the cartridge 1 with a viscosity between 70 and 2,000 mPa to the environment and between 80 and 5,000 mPa at 0 ° C where the coffee has a total solids level between 40 and 70%. A fourth version of the cartridge 1 is shown in figures 30 to 34. The fourth version of the cartridge 1 is particularly designed for use in dispensing liquid products such as concentrated liquid milk. Many of the features of the fourth version of the cartridge 1 are the same as in the previous versions and similar numbers have been used for reference to similar characteristics. In the following description the differences between the fourth and previous versions will be discussed. Common characteristics that work in the same way will not be discussed in detail.

The outer member 2 is the same as in the third version of the cartridge 1 and as shown in figures 19 to 23. The cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner member 3 is similar to that shown in the second version of the cartridge 1 but with certain differences . As shown in Figure 30, the discharge tube 43 is configured with an upper frusto-conical section 106 and a lower cylindrical section 107. Three axial ribs 105 are provided on the interior surface of the discharge tube 43 to direct the dispensed beverage down towards outlet 44 and prevent the discharged drink from rotating inside the tube. Consequently, the ribs 105 act as baffles. As in the second version of the cartridge 1, an air inlet 71 is provided through the annular flange 47. However, the duct 75 below the air inlet 71 is more elongated than in the second version. A skirt portion 80 is provided similar to that shown in the third version of the cartridge 1 described above. Between 5 and 12 apertures 85 are provided at the edge 84. Typically ten apertures are provided in place of the five provided in the third version of the cartridge 1. An annular bowl 100 is provided extending from and integral with the flange 83 of the skirt portion 80. Ring bowl 100 comprises an inflamed body 101 with an open upper mouth 104 that faces upwards. Four feed openings 103 shown in Figures 30 and 31 are located in the body 101 at or near the lower end of the bowl 100 where it joins the skirt portion 80. Preferably, the feeding openings are equidistant around the circumference of the bowl 100. The laminate 5 is of the type described above in the previous embodiments. The assembly procedure for the fourth version of the cartridge 1 is the same as that of the third version. The operation of the fourth version of the cartridge is similar to that of the third version. The water enters the cartridge 1 and the mixing chamber 134 in the same manner as before. There the water mixes with and dilutes the liquid product which is then forced out through the openings 85 to the outlet 44 as described above. A proportion of the liquid product is initially contained within the annular bowl 100 as shown in Figure 34 and is not subject to immediate dilution by the water entering the mixing chamber 134. The liquid product diluted in the lower part of the chamber of mixing 134 will tend to come out through the openings 85 instead of forced up and into the annular bowl 100 through the upper mouth 104. Consequently, the liquid product in the annular bowl 100 will remain relatively concentrated compared to the product in the lower part of the mixing chamber 134. The liquid product in the annular bowl 100 drips through the feed openings 103 within the the product stream leaving the mixing chamber 134 through the openings 85. The annular bowl 100 acts to match the concentration of the diluted liquid product entering the cylindrical funnel 40 by stopping a proportion of the concentrated liquid product and releasing it inside of the outgoing liquid stream more evenly through the dispensing cycle. From the annular channel 86 the beverage is forced under pressure through the opening 128 by the retropressure of the beverage collected in the filtration chamber 134 and the chamber 90. The beverage is then forced through the opening 128 as a jet and into the expansion chamber formed by the upper end of the discharge tube 43. As shown in Figure 34, the beverage jet passes directly over the air inlet 71. As the beverage enters the discharge tube 43 the pressure of the drink stream falls. As a result air is incorporated into the beverage stream by the entry of air 71 in the form of a multitude of small air bubbles. The beverage jet issuing from opening 128 is funneled down to outlet 44 where the beverage is discharged into a receptacle such as a cup where the air bubbles form the desired foamed appearance. Advantageously, the inner member 3, the outer member 2, the laminate 5 and the filter 4 can all be easily sterilized due to the components being separable and not individually comprising tortuous passages or narrow crevices. Instead, only after assembling the components, after sterilization, that the necessary passages are formed. These are particularly important where the beverage ingredient is a dairy-based product such as a liquid milk concentrate. The fourth embodiment of the beverage cartridge is particularly advantageous for dispensing a liquid product based on concentrated dairy products such as liquid milk. Previously, powdered milk products have been provided in the form of sacks to be added to a pre-prepared beverage. However, for a cappuccino-style drink it is necessary to froth the milk. This has been previously achieved by passing water vapor through a liquid milk product. However, this necessitates the provision of a water vapor supply that increases the cost and complexity of the machine used to dispense the beverage. The use of water vapor also increases the risk of injury during cartridge operation. Accordingly, the present invention provides for a beverage cartridge having a dairy-based liquid product concentrated therein. It has been found that by concentrating the milk product a greater amount of foam can be produced for a particular volume of milk when compared to fresh milk or UHT. This reduces the size required for the milk cartridge. Fresh semi-skim milk contains approximately 1.6% of fat and 10% total solids. The concentrated liquid milk preparations of the present invention contain between 3 and 10% fat and 25 to 40% total solids. In a typical example, the preparation contains 4% fat and 30% total solids. Concentrated milk preparations are suitable for foaming using the low pressure preparation machine as will be described below. In particular, foaming of milk is achieved at pressures below 2 bar, preferably about 1.5 bar using the cartridge of the fourth embodiment described above. The cartridge of the fourth embodiment is also advantageous in dispensing liquid coffee products. It has been found that the embodiments of the beverage cartridge of the present invention advantageously provide an improved consistency of the beverage prepared when compared to cartridges of the state of the art. Reference is made to the following Table 1 which shows the results of preparation yields for twenty samples each of cartridges A and B containing roasted and ground coffee. The cartridge A is a beverage cartridge according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The cartridge B is a beverage cartridge of the state of the art as described in the applicant's document WO 01/58786. The refractive index of the prepared beverage is measured in Brix units and converted to a percentage of soluble solids (% SS) using tables and standard formulas. In the following examples: % SS = 0.7774 * (Brix Value) + 0.0569 % Performance = (% SS * Preparation Volume (g)) / (100 * Coffee Weight (g)) Table 1 CARTRIDGE A Sample Preparation Volume (g) Coffee Weight (g) Brix% SS (*)% Yield 1 105.6 6.5 1.58 1.29 20.88 2 10 .24 6.5 1.S4 1.33 21.35 3 100.95 6.5 1.67 1.36 21.05 4 102.23 6.5 1.71 1.39 21.80 100.49 6.5 1.73 1.40 21.67 6 107.54 6.5 1.59 1.29 21.39 7 102.70 6.5 1.67 1.36 21.41 8 97.77 6.5 1.86 1.50 22.61 9 97.82 6.5 1.7 1.38 20.75 97.83 6.5 1.67 1.36 20.40 11 97.6 6.5 1.78 1.44 21.63 12 106.64 6.5 1.S1 1.31 21.47 13 99.26 6.5 1.54 1.25 19.15 14 97.29 6.5 1.59 1.29 19.35 101.54 6.5 1.51 1.23 19.23 16 10 .23 6.5 1.61 1.31 20.98 17 97.5 6.5 1.73 1.40 21.03 18 100.83 6.5 1.68 1.36 21.14 19 101.67 6.5 1.67 1.36 21.20 10 .32 6.5 1.68 1.36 21.24 AVERAGE 20.99 CARTRIDGE B Carrying out a statistical analysis of t-test in the above data gives the following results: Table 2-T-Test: Two Samples Assuming Equal Variances % Yield (Cartridge A)% Yield (Cartridge B) Average 20.99 23.09 Variety 0.77 S.04 Observations 20 20 Combined Variance 2.90 Mean Difference Hypothetical 0 df 38 t Stat -3.90 P (T < = t) one tail 0.000188 t Critical one tail 1.68S P (T = t) two tails 0.00037S t Critical two tails 2.0244 Standard Deviation 0.87S 2.24S The analysis shows that the consistency of the% yield, which is equivalent to the strength of preparation, for the cartridges of the present invention is significantly better (at a level of confidence of 95%) than the cartridges of the prior art, with a standard deviation of 0.88% compared to 2.24%. This means that the beverages prepared with the cartridges of the present invention have a more repeatable and uniform force. This is preferred by consumers who like their drinks to taste the same every time and do not want arbitrary changes in the strength of the preparation.

The materials of the cartridges described above can be provided with a barrier coating to improve their resistance to oxygen and / or moisture ingress and / or other contaminant. The barrier coating can also improve the leakage resistance of the beverage ingredients from within the cartridges and / or reduce the degree of leaching of extractables from cartridge materials that may adversely affect the beverage ingredients. . The barrier coating may be of a material selected from the group of PET, polyamide, EVOH, PVDC or a metallized material. The barrier coating can be applied by a number of mechanisms including but not limited to vapor deposition, vacuum deposition, plasma coating, co-extrusion, in-mold labeling and two / multi-step molding. A beverage preparation machine 201 according to the present invention for use with the above-described beverage cartridges is shown in Figures 35 to 45. The beverage preparation machine 201 generally comprises a housing 210 containing a water tank 220, a water heater 225, a water pump 23 ?, an air compressor 235, a control processor, a user interface 240 and a cartridge head 250. The cartridge head 250 in turn generally comprises a cartridge holder 251 to hold, in use, the beverage cartridge 1, cartridge recognition means 252 and inlet and outlet perforators 253, 254 to form in use, the inlet 121 and outlet 122 in the beverage cartridge 1. The housing 210 contains and holds in position the other components of the machine 201. The housing 210 is preferably made entirely or in part from a robust plastic material such as ABS Alternatively, the housing 210 may be made entirely or in part from a metallic material such as stainless steel or aluminum. The housing 210 preferably comprises a clam shell design having a front half 211 and a back half 212 that allows access during assembly for adjustment of the components of the machine 201 and can subsequently be joined to define an interior 213 of the housing 210. The back half 212 provides a recess 214 for the connection of the water tank 220. The housing 210 is formed as a means, such as detents, stops, protrusions and threaded portions, for retaining the components of the machine 201 in position without the need for a separate chassis. This reduces the overall cost and weight of the machine 201. A base 215 of the housing 210 is preferred provided with feet to stop the machine therein in a stable manner. Alternatively, the base itself 215 may have a figure forming a stable support. The front half 211 of the housing 210 comprises a dispensing station 270 where dispensing of the beverage takes place. The dispensing station 270 comprises a receptacle holder 271 having a hollow interior forming a tray 272. A top surface 273 of the receptacle holder is provided with a grate 274 in which the receptacle is positioned. The drip tray 272 is removable from the housing 210 to facilitate the emptying of the collected water. A recess 275 is formed in the front half of the housing 210 on the receptacle holder 271 to accommodate the dimensions of the receptacle. The cartridge head 250 is located towards the top of the housing 210 on the receptacle holder as shown in Figures 35 and 36. Preferably, the height of the grate 274 relative to the cartridge head 250 can be adjusted to accommodate different receptacle sizes. It is preferred that the receptacle be as close to the cartridge head 250 as possible, while still allowing the receptacle to be inserted and removed from the dispensing station 270, such that it minimizes the height that the dispensed beverage has to descend before to make contact with the receptacle. This acts to minimize dew and splashing of the drink and minimize the loss of trapped air bubbles that are present. Preferably receptacles between 70 and 110 mm in height can be inserted between the grill 274 and the cartridge head 250. The machine user interface 240 is located on the front of the housing 210 and comprises a start / stop button 241, and a plurality of status indicators 243-246. The status indicators 243-246 preferably they include a light emitting diode (LED) 243 to indicate ready state of the machine 201, an LED 244 to indicate if an error has occurred in the operation of the machine 201, and one or more LEDs 245-256 to indicate whether the machine 201 is operating in manual or automatic modes. The LEDs 243-246 can be controlled to illuminate at a constant intensity, to flash intermittently, or both depending on the state of the machine 201. The LEDs 243-246 can have a variety of colors including green, red and yellow. The start / stop button 241 controls the start of the dispensing cycle and is a manually operated pressure button, switch or the like. A volume adjustment control may be provided to allow the user of the machine 201 to manually adjust the volume of the delivered beverage without altering the other operating characteristics. Preferably, the volume adjustment control allows a volume adjustment of plus or minus 20%. The volume adjustment control can be a rotary knob, a linear slider, a digital readout with increment and decrement buttons, or the like. More typically, the volume is controlled by a user operating the start / stop button 241. A manual power switch (not shown) can be provided in the machine 201. Alternatively, the power supply can be controlled simply by insertion or removal or the power supply plug from the supply of domestic energy. The water tank 220 is located in the rear part of the housing 210 and is connected to the rear half 212 of the housing 210. The water tank 220 comprises a generally cylindrical body 221 which may be right-handed or a frusto as desired for reasons aesthetic The tank comprises an inlet for filling the tank with water which is closed in use by a manually removable lid 222. An outlet is provided towards a lower end of the tank communicating with the water pump 230. The water tank 220 can make a transparent or translucent material to allow a consumer to observe the amount of water remaining in the tank. Alternatively, the water tank 220 may be made of an opaque material but have provided an observation window therein. In addition, or instead of the above, the water tank 220 can be provided with a low level sensor which prevents the operation of the water pump 230 and optionally triggers a warning indicator, such as an LED, when the water level in the tank drops to a preselected level. The water tank 220 preferably has an internal capacity of approximately 1.5 liters. The water pump 230 is operatively connected between the water tank 220 and the water heater 225 as shown schematically in Figure 43 and is controlled by the control processor. The pump provides a maximum flow rate of 900 ml / min of water at a maximum pressure of 2.5 bar. Preferably, in normal use, the pressure will be limited to 2 bar. The rate of water flow through the machine 201 can be controlled by the control processor to be a percentage of the maximum flow rate of the pump per cycle by cutting the electrical supply to the pump. Preferably the pump can be driven at any of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 100% of the maximum nominal flow rate. The precision of the volume of pumped water is preferably + 5% leading to an accuracy of ± 5% accuracy in the final volume of the dispensed beverage. A suitable pump is the Evolution EP8 pump produced by Ulka S. r. 1. (Pavia, Italy). A volumetric flow sensor (not shown) is preferably provided in the flow line either upstream or downstream of the water pump 230. Preferably, the volumetric flow sensor is a rotary sensor. The water heater 225 is located inside the housing 210. The heater 225 has a rated power of 1,550 W and is capable of heating water received from the water pump 230 from an initial temperature of about 20 ° C. at an operating temperature of about 85 ° C in less than 1 minute. Preferably the residence time between the end of a dispensing cycle and the heater 225 being able to begin a subsequent dispensing cycle is less than 10 seconds. The heater maintains the selected temperature within ± 2 ° C during the dispensing cycle. As discussed below, the water for the dispensing cycle can be delivered to the cartridge head 250 at 83 or 93 ° C. The heater 225 is able to quickly adjust the delivery temperature to either 83 or 93 ° C from a nominal water temperature of 85 ° C. The heater 225 comprises an over-temperature cutoff that turns off the heater if the temperature exceeds 98 ° C. The water outlet of the heater 225 is fed to the cartridge head 2250 and the cartridge 1 by means of a three-way valve. If the water flow pressure is acceptable, the water is passed to the cartridge 1. If the pressure is below or above predetermined limits then the water is diverted by means of the three-way valve to the drip tray recovery receptacle 270. The air compressor 235 is operatively connected to the cartridge head 250 by means of a one-way valve and controlled by the control processor. The air compressor 235 provides a maximum air flow rate of 500 ml / min at 1.0 bar. In use, a work volume of 35 ml is pressurized to 2.0 bar. Preferably, the air compressor 235 can produce two flow rates: a fast (or maximum) flow rate and a slow flow rate. The control processor of the beverage preparation machine 201 comprises a processing module and a memory. The control processor is operatively connected to, and controls the operation of, the water heater 225, the water pump 230, the air compressor 235 and the user interface 240. The memory of the control processor includes one or more variables for one or more operating parameters for the machine of beverage preparation 201. In the illustrated embodiment, the operating parameters are the temperature of the water passing through the beverage cartridge 1 during the operation stage, and the loading speed of the beverage cartridge 1, the presence or other of a wetting step, the total dispensed volume of the beverage, the flow rate of the water during the discharge stage, and the flow rate and period of the purge stage. The variables for the operating parameters are stored in the memory. The cartridge 1 comprises a code provided on or in the cartridge 1 representing the operating parameters required for optimum dispensing of the beverage in that cartridge 1. The code is in a binary format and comprises a plurality of data bits corresponding to the variables stored in the cartridge. the control processor memory. Table 3 illustrates how 13 data bits can be used to represent the variables needed for the operating parameters described above.

Table 3 t Parameter Description & 1 Water Temperature 00 = cold 01 = warm 10 = 83"C 11 = 93 ° C &3 Cartridge Load 00 = rapid loading with wetting 01 = fast loading without wetting 10 = slow loading with wetting 11 = slow loading without wetting , 5, 6 &7 Drink Volume 0000 = 50 mi 0001 = 60 mi 0010 = 70 mi 0011 = 80 mi 0100 = 90 mi 0101 = 100 mi 0110 = 110 mi 0111 = 130 mi 1000 = 150 mi 1001 = 170 mi 1010 = 190 mi 1011 = 210 mi 1100 = 230 mi 1101 = 250 mi 1110 = 275 mi 1111 = 300 mi, 9 &10 Flow Rate 000 = 30% 001 = 40% 010 = 50% 011 = 60% 100 = 70% 101 = 80% 110 = 90% 111 = 100% 1 &12 Purge 00 = slow flow / short period 01 = slow flow / long period 10 = fast flow / short period 11 = fast flow / long period code about or in the cartridge 1 normalment will comprise one or more extra data bits for error review In one example a 16 bit code is provided. For example using the variables listed in Table 3, a cartridge carrying the code "10001000111110" will have the following operating parameters: 10 Water Temperature of 83 ° C 00 Rapid load with wetting 1000 Volume of dispensed beverage of 150 ml 111 Flow rate equal to 100% 10 Rapid airflow purge / short period Thus, unlike prior beverage preparation machines, the memory of the control processor does not store operational instructions for the beverage cartridges based on the type of cartridge, i.e., instructions for a coffee cartridge, instructions for a cartridge. chocolate, instructions for a tea cartridge, etc. Instead, the memory of the control processor stores variables to adjust the individual operating parameters of the dispensing cycle. This has a number of advantages. First, a greater degree of control of the dispensing cycle can be exercised. For example, slightly different operating parameters can be used for different grades or coffee blends instead of using the same parameters for all types of coffee. Previous coding solutions depending on stored instructions by cartridge type rather than by individual parameters are inadequate for such Subtle differences in dispensing cycles for similar types of beverage because they quickly consume in available storage space in the coding medium and control processor. Second, the coding method of the present invention allows new types of beverage cartridges to be used in pre-existing beverage preparation machines even where the operating parameters for the dispensing cycle for the new beverage cartridge 1 are only decided after the sale of the beverage preparation machine 201. This is because the control processor of the beverage preparation machine 201 need not recognize that the beverage is of a new type. Instead, the operating parameters of the dispensing cycle are established without direct reference to the type of beverage. Therefore, the coding method of the present invention provides excellent backward compatibility of beverage preparation machines for new types of beverages. In contrast, with prior machines, manufacturing is restricted to dispensing a new type of beverage using one of the pre-existing dispensing cycles as determined by the machines in the market. The cartridge head 250 is shown in Figures 39 to 42. The cartridge holder 251 of the cartridge head 250 comprises a fixed bottom 255, a rotatable top 256 and a pivotable cartridge assembly 257 positioned between the lower part fixed 255 and the upper part able to rotate 256. Top 256, bottom 255 and cartridge assembly 257 are rotated about a common hinge shaft 258. Figures 39 to 42 show cartridge holder 251 with some components of the machine 201 omitted for clarity. The rotatable upper part 256 and the pivotable cartridge assembly 257 move relative to the fixed lower part 255 by means of a clamping mechanism 280. The clamping mechanism 280 comprises a clamping lever having members or parts first and second 281 and 282. The first portion 281 of the gripping lever comprises a U-shaped arm that is pivotally mounted to the top 256 at two first pivot points 283, one on each side of the cartridge holder 251. The second part of the clamping lever comprises two arms on center 282, one on each side of the cartridge holder 251 which are each pivotally mounted to the top 256 at a point of second pivot 285 located on hinge axis 258 engaging top 256 with bottom 255 fixed. Each arm about center 282 is a reciprocal member comprising a cylinder 282a, a rod 282b and a resilient sleeve 282c. The cylinder 282a has an internal bore and is rotatably mounted at one end at the hinge point 258. A first end of the rod 282b is slidably received in the bore of the cylinder 282a. The extreme opposite of the rod 282b is rotatably mounted to the U-shaped arm 281 at a third pivot point 286. The third pivot points 286 are disconnected from, and can move freely relative to, the top 256 and the lower part 255. The resilient sleeve 282c is externally mounted to the rod 282b and extends, in use, between abutment surfaces in the cylinder 282a and the rod 282b. Resilient sleeve 282c accommodates arm shortening over center 282 but pushes arm over center 282 into an extended configuration. The movement of the third pivot points 286 towards and away from the hinge axis 258 is thus possible by relative movement of the rods 282b in the cylinders 282a. Resilient sleeves 282c are preferably formed of silicone. Although the illustrated embodiment uses two arms on center 282, it will be apparent that the locking mechanism can be configured with only one arm on center 282. The U-shaped arm 281 extends around the front of the cartridge holder 251 and comprises two downwardly depending hook members 287, one on each side of the cartridge holder 251, each comprising a cam surface 288 facing the hinge axis 258. The fixed lower part 255 of the cartridge holder 251 is provided with two protuberances 259 , or detents, located one on each side of the lower part 255 at or near its front edge 260 generally aligned with the hook members 287.

As shown in Figure 39, the U-shaped arm 281 can be formed from a one-piece plastic molding comprising an ergonomic hand grip and the hook members 287 integral with the arm. The cartridge assembly 257 is rotatably mounted between the upper and lower portions 255, 256 of the cartridge holder 251. The assembly 257 is provided with a substantially circular recess 290 which receives in use the beverage cartridge 1. The recess 290 includes an irregularity 291 for accommodating the handle portion 24 of the beverage cartridge 1 which also acts to prevent rotation of the beverage cartridge 1 in the cartridge holder 251. The cartridge assembly 257 is twisted in relation to the fixed lower part 255 that in the open position, as shown in Figure 41, the cartridge assembly 257 is pushed out of contact with the fixed lower part 255 such that the cartridge assembly 257 moves out of contact with the outlet and the piercer members. outlet and inlet 254, 253. The cartridge assembly 257 is provided with an apertures 292 for receiving through and through the inlet and outlet perforators 253, 254 and a head 300 of the reclosing means. Cartridge awareness 252 when the cartridge assembly 257 moves to the closed position. The upper part 255 comprises a generally circular body 310 having a circular observation window 312 through which a consumer can observe the cartridge of 1 during a dispensing cycle and also visually confirming whether a cartridge 1 is loaded in the machine 201. The observation window 312 is cup-shaped having a downwardly directed edge 311. The observation window 312 is capable of axially moving with relationship to the body 310 of the upper part 255. An arrangement for achieving relative movement is to provide a wave spring (not shown), or similar resilient means such as a rubberized ring, positioned between the observation window 312 and the circular body 310 In an alternative arrangement, a series of helical compression springs (not shown) are provided extending between the observation window 312 and the body 310. In both cases the resilient means allow the observation window 312 to move axially relative to the circular body 310 by a small degree. When the cartridge holder 251 is in the closed position, the observation window 312 rests against the beverage cartridge 1 by pushing it against the lower part 256. In an arrangement, the edge 311 of the observation window makes contact and rests against the flange 35 of the beverage cartridge. At the same time the window 312 makes contact with the closed upper part 11 of the cartridge 1. In an alternative arrangement, only the observation window 312 makes contact with the closed upper part 11 of the cartridge 1, and there is no bearing contact between the edge 311 and tab 35. The pressure exerted by the edge 311 in the flange 35 and / or by the window 312 in the closed upper part 11 ensures a fluid-tight seal between the cartridge 1 and the cartridge holder 251. The lower part 255 comprises the inlet and outlet perforators. 253, 254 and the head 300 of the cartridge recognition means 252. The entry perforator 253 comprises a hollow needle-like tube 260 having a sharp end 261 for piercing the laminate 5 of the beverage cartridge 1 in use. The inlet piercer 253 is in fluid communication with a water conduit 262 as shown in Figure 42 which passes through the lower part 255 and is connected to an outlet conduit 263 of the water heater 225. The outlet piercer 254 is similar in type to the outlet perforator described in the applicant's European patents EP 0 389 141 and EP 0 334 572 and comprises an open-ended cylinder 264 of circular or D-shaped cross section having larger dimensions than the discharge tube 43. An arcuate portion 265 of the upper end of the outlet perforator 254 is sawed to perforate and eventually cut the laminate of the beverage cartridge 1. The rest of the upper end is cut back longitudinally of the cylinder in at least the base of the teeth 266 of the sawn portion to fold or pull the cut laminate 5 out of the exit opening before the beverage is dispensed therethrough. The exit perforator 254 perforates the laminate 5 externally of the discharge tube 43 and when the assembly of cartridge 257 is in the closed position, rests on the ring between discharge tube 43 and outer wall 42 of discharge funnel 40. Exit perforator 254 bends back to cut laminate 105 within the annulus. In this way both the outlet perforator 254 and the cut laminate 105 are kept out of the path of the discharged beverage. The outlet perforator 254 is surrounded by a flange 254a that is raised relative to its surroundings by 0.5 mm. By sale, the outlet perforator 254 is removable from the lower part 255 to enable it to be completely cleaned, for example, in a lava-vajillas. The removable outlet perforator 254 is received in a recess 267 in the lower part 255 where it sits. The inlet piercer 254 and / or the outlet piercer 254 can be made of a metal, such as stainless steel, or of a plastic material. Advantageously, the use of plastic cutting elements is enabled by the use of a laminate 5 which is capable of being punched and cut by a non-metallic material. Consequently, perforators 253, 254 can be made less sharp which reduces the risk of injury to the consumer. In addition, plastic drilling elements are not susceptible to corrosion. The inlet piercer 253 and the outlet piercer 254 are formed as a single integral unit that can be removed from the lower part 255. In use, the upper part 256 of the support cartridge 251 is movable from an open position in which it is oriented vertically or vertically as shown in figure 36, to the closed position in which it is oriented substantially horizontally and in inter-engagement with the fixed lower part 255 and the cartridge assembly 257. The upper part 256 moves from the open to the closed positions by the operation of the clamping lever. To close the upper part 256, a user holds the clamping lever by the U-shaped arm 281 and pulls it down. Consequently, the upper part 256 rotates which leads to the edge 311 of the observation window 312 towards contact with the flange 35 of the beverage cartridge 1 in the cartridge assembly 257 and / or the window 312 itself in contact with the closed top part. 11 of the cartridge 1. Continuous rotation of the upper part 256 rotates to the upper part 256 and to the cartridge assembly 257 downwards towards contact with the part lower 255. Additional rotation of the U-shaped arm 281 causes the U-shaped arm 281 to rotate relative to the upper part 256 and the lower part 255 resulting in the hook members 287 of the upper part 256 bonding to the protuberances. 259 of the lower part 255 with the cam surface 288 running on the protuberances 259. During this last rotation step the cartridge 1 is compressed between the cartridge assembly 257 and the viewing window 312. As a result, the observation window 312 moves axially relative to the circular body 310 of the top 256 against the thrust of the wave spring or coil springs. This movement allows for a pick up of tolerances in the beverage cartridge 1 and beverage preparation machine and ensures that the amount of compression force applied to the cartridge is kept within an acceptable range. The clamping force of the mechanism as moderated by the action of the coil spring or coil springs ensures a clamping pressure in the cartridge. For the arrangement where the bearing pressure is applied to both the flange 35 and the closed upper part 11 of the cartridge 1, it has been found that a pressure between 130 and 280 N is required. Preferably, the force is approximately 200 N. A force less than about 130 N does not provide an adequate seal, while a force greater than about 280 N leads to a plastic failure of the cartridge components 1. For the arrangement where the bearing pressure is applied only to the closed top 11 of the cartridge 1 it has been found that a pressure between 50 and 280 N is required. It will be noted that a lower pressure level is possible with this arrangement without a detrimental effect on the sealing of the cartridge 1. During the closing of the cartridge head, the laminate 5 of the cartridge 1 is tensioned as it is brought into contact with the flange 254a which surrounds the outlet perforator 254 which causes the laminate 5 to flex out of the plane as the distal end of the outer tube 42 of the cylindrical funnel moves upwards by 0.5 mm relative to the flange 35. This The movement also ensures that the vast majority of the compression force applied to the cartridge acts through the central region of the cartridge 1 through the inner load carrying member 3. In the closed position the cartridge 1 can thus be clamped around the flange 35. by the edge 311 of the observation window 312 and always firmly held between the closed upper part 11 of the cartridge and the outer tube 42 of the inner member 3 by contact with the observation window 312 and the flange 254a. These clamping forces help to prevent the failure of the cartridge 1 during pressurization and also ensure that the inner member 3 and the outer member 2 settle completely in relation to each other and that all internal passages and openings remain in their intended dimensions even during internal pressurization. An imaginary reference line can be drawn between the first and second pivot points 283, 285 of the cartridge holder 251. As can be seen in Figure 41, in the open position the third pivot points 286 are located on the side of the reference line closest to the fixed bottom 255. As the top 256 reaches the closed position, the third pivot points 286 of the clamping lever pass through the reference line joining the first and second pivot points 283, 285 with the opposite sides of the farthest line of the fixed bottom 255. Consequently, the U-shaped arm 281"snaps" to starting from a first stable position to a second stable position. The stroke adjustment action is accommodated by reduction of the over-center arms 282 and subsequent compression of the resilient sleeves 282c. Once the third pivot points 286 pass the imaginary reference line then the recovery of the resilient sleeves 282c acts to continue the movement of the third pivot points 286 away from the imaginary reference line. The clamping lever thus has a bi-stable operation in which the lever is stable in the open or closed positions for unstable at the point when the third pivot points 286 rest on the imaginary reference line joining the pivot points first and second 283, 285. Thus, the snap action of the clamping lever provides a positive closing mechanism that leads to a final closing action where in the final stages of the rotation of the clamping lever, the pressure adjusting action of the U-shaped arm 281 and the second arms 284 force the hook members 287 firmly into engagement with the protuberances 259. In addition, the resilient sleeves 282c provide a resistance to re-opening of the arm. upper part 256 since a maximum force is required to compress the sleeves 282c sufficiently to move the third pivot points 286 back into alignment with the reference line joining the first and second pivot points 283, 285. Advantageously, the inter-linking of hook members 287 the protuberances 259 prevents separation of the upper and lower parts other than rotation of the clamping lever. This is useful to prevent opening of the cartridge head 250 during operation when the cartridge head 250 is subjected to internal pressurization. The purpose of the cartridge recognition means 252 is to allow the machine 201 to recognize the type of beverage cartridge 1 that has been inserted and to adjust one or more operating parameters accordingly. In a typical embodiment, the cartridge recognition means 252 comprises an optical barcode reader that reads a printed barcode 320 provided in the laminate 5 of the beverage cartridge 1 as shown in FIG. 45. The code of bars 320 is formed from a plurality of bars of contrasting color. Preferably the bars are black on a white background to maximize contrast. The bar code 320 is not required to conform to a published standard but a standard format for bar codes, such as EAN-13, UPC-A, or Interleaf 2 of 5 may be used. The bar code reader comprises one or more LEDs 321 for illuminating the bar code 320, a focusing lens 322 for acquiring a bar code image, a charge coupled device (CCD) 323 for producing an electrical signal representative of the acquired image and support circuits for the LEDs and the CCD. The space at the bottom to accommodate the code reader of Bars is limited. A mirror or mirrors 324 can be used to reflect the light of the LEDs 321 to a focusing lens that is not located in the lower part 255. Schematic arrangements are shown in Figures 44a and 44b. The lower part 255 comprises an opening 326 which is the same size as the barcode 320 in the beverage cartridge 1. In use, the electrical signals produced are decoded by signal processing software and the results are sent to the processor of control . The software can recognize if the reading of the bar code contained an error. The barcode 320 can be re-examined a number of times before an error message is presented to the consumer. If the machine 201 is unable to read the bar code, the consumer is able to use the beverage cartridge 1 to dispense a beverage using a manual mode of operation. The cartridge head 250 also includes a cartridge sensor for detecting whether a cartridge is present in the cartridge holder 251. The cartridge head 250 also includes a closure sensor that detects whether the cartridge holder 251 is properly closed. Preferably the closure sensor comprises a microswitch that is triggered when the cartridge holder 251 is closed. Preferably the cartridge sensor and the closing sensor are connected in series such that the output of both sensors must be satisfactory, ie the cartridge present and the closed mechanism, before the dispensing cycle can begin. The cartridge assembly 257 can be removed from the cartridge head 250 to facilitate cleaning. Preferably, a microswitch or other interlock is provided for machine prevention operation if the cartridge assembly 257 is not replaced. The operation of the machine 201 comprises the insertion of a beverage cartridge 1 into the cartridge head 250, carrying out a dispensing cycle in which the beverage is dispensed and the removal of the cartridge 1 from the machine. The operational behavior of the machine 201 is determined by software embedded in the control processor. The operation of the machine can be described in terms of "States," where machine 201 will normally exist in a particular state until an event occurs to change the state, a step called a state transition. Table 4 shows a Table of State Transitions which illustrates the States and the state transitions for an embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 201.

Table 4 The following example illustrates a dispensing cycle to exemplify the use of the State Transitions by the control processor. It is assumed that the machine 201 initially shuts off without cartridge 1 inserted in the cartridge head 250. When the machine 201 is turned on the control processor is in State 1. The water heater 225 is turned on. Once the temperature reaches 85 ° C the control processor transits to State 2. If at any time during State 1 or 2 the cartridge holder 251 is closed, the closing sensor will be triggered to send a signal to the control processor indicating that the cartridge holder 251 is properly closed. The control processor then interrogates the sensor cartridge by means of sending the instruction "readpod". The cartridge sensor returns a signal to the control processor indicating whether a cartridge is in place in the cartridge holder 251. If no cartridge is present, the control processor transits to State 3 where it remains in a ready state until the support of cartridge 251 is re-opened at which point the control processor transits back to State 2. If a cartridge is present in State 2, then the control processor transits to State 4 and the operation is automatically started. During States 4 to 9 the water temperature is controlled at the bottom to remain within the required tolerance range of the desired temperature as set by the operating parameters set by the bar code on the beverage cartridge 1. Once the dispensing discharge stage is completed, an air purge is started in State 8. Once the air purge is complete, the operating cycle is completed and the machine enters a standby mode in State 10. If , during the operation, an error occurs, then the processor transits to State 11. If a low water level is detected, then the processor transits to State 12. To insert cartridge 1, cartridge holder 251 opens as described above to expose the cartridge assembly 257. The cartridge 1 is then placed in the cartridge assembly 257 received within the recess 290 such that the handle 24 of the cartridge is located in the irregularity 291. The code of Optical or magnetic bars 320 of the cartridge 1 are oriented directly on the opening 326 in the cartridge assembly 257. The cartridge holder 251 is then closed by the operation of the clamping lever as described above. During closing, the inlet and salt drillers 253, 254 pierce the laminate 5 of the cartridge 1 to form the inlet 121 and the outlet 122 of the cartridge. As described above, the laminate 5 cut by the outlet perforator 254 is bent upwards towards the ring surrounding the discharge tube 43. When closed, the cartridge holder 251 seizes the cartridge 1 around the edge 35 between the assembly of cartridge 257 and top 256 and / or between window 311 and top 11 of cartridge 1 to form a fluid-tight seal of sufficient integrity to withstand the pressures developed during the dispensing cycle. To start the operation cycle, the consumer operates the on / off button 241. The operation cycle comprises the cartridge recognition steps and the discharge cycle. The cartridge recognition is carried out by the optical cartridge recognition means 252 as described above assuming that the outputs of the cartridge sensor and the closing sensor are satisfactory. Once the bar code 320 has been decoded, the operating parameters of the machine 201 are adjusted by the control processor. The cycle of download then it starts automatically. The discharge cycle has four main stages, not all of which are used for all types of beverages: (i) Pre-wetting; (ii) Pause; (iii) Preparation / mixing; (iv) Purge. In the pre-wetting step, the cartridge 1 is charged with water from the water storage tank 220 by means of the water pump 230. The charging with water causes the beverage ingredients 200 in the filtration chamber 130 get wet. Loading can take place at a "fast" flow rate of 600 ml / min or a "slow" flow rate of 325 ml / min. The slow charge rate is particularly useful for cartridges containing viscous liquid beverage ingredients where the ingredients require some dilution before being able to be pumped at a higher volume flow rate. The volume of water injected into the cartridge 1 is selected to ensure that water or beverage does not drip from the cartridge outlet 122 during this step. The pause stage allows the beverage ingredients 200 to soak in the injected water during the pre-wetting step for a predetermined period of time. The stages of both pre-wetting and soaking are known to increase the performance of the extractables of the 200 drink ingredients and to improve the final taste of the drink. The pre-wetting and soaking are particularly used where the beverage ingredients are roasted and ground coffee. In the preparation / mixing step, water is passed through the cartridge 1 to produce the beverage from the beverage ingredients 200. The temperature of the water is determined by the control processor which instructs the water heater 225 to heat the water that passes from the water tank 220 to the cartridge head 250. Water enters the lower part 255 of the cartridge holder 251 through the conduit 262 via the inlet valve and the inlet borer 253 into the chamber entry 126 of the beverage cartridge 1. The preparation and / or mixing and subsequent dispensing of the beverage from the beverage cartridge 1 is as described above with reference to the versions of the beverage cartridge 1. The air purge comprises the blowing of presumed air through the beverage preparation machine and the beverage cartridge 1 to ensure that all the beverage is dispensed and that the flow path is released ready for dispensing Take another drink. The air purge does not begin immediately upon cessation of the preparation / mixing step to allow the majority of the fluid to release the flow path. This prevents an unacceptable peak in the internal pressure at the beginning of the purge of air In normal operation, a user manually stops the machine 201 by operating the start / stop button 241. Once the operating cycle has been completed, the consumer removes the cartridge 1 by opening the cartridge holder 251 and manually remove and dispose of the cartridge. Alternatively, the machine 201 can be provided with an automatic ejection mechanism to automatically remove the cartridge when opening the cartridge holder 251. Delivery times for beverages using the machine 201 and cartridges 1 are typically between 10 and 120 seconds, preferably 30 seconds. to 40 seconds for roasted and ground coffee, between 5 and 120 seconds, preferably 10 to 20 seconds for chocolate and between 5 and 120 seconds, preferably 10 to 20 seconds for milk. The machine 201 can also advantageously comprise a memory in operative communication with the control processor that stores information in the type of beverage dispensed by a user. The operation cycle of the machine 201 can then be adjusted for the next cartridge 1. This is especially advantageous where two or more beverage cartridges 1 are used sequentially to form a beverage. For example, a coffee cartridge can be dispensed followed by a milk cartridge to form a cappuccino beverage. Alternatively, a chocolate cartridge could be used followed by a cartridge of milk to produce a creamy hot chocolate drink. By using a memory storing information in the first dispensed beverage, the manner of dispensing the second cartridge, say, a milk cartridge, can be altered to achieve an optimal beverage. In the previous example milk dispensed for hot chocolate can typically be diluted less than milk added for coffee. In addition, milk dispensed for chocolate can be dispensed at a slower flow rate to reduce the degree of foaming of the beverage. Many combinations of cartridges are possible and operating parameters as will be obvious to the person skilled in the art. In addition, the memory can be used to allow the machine 201 to "predict" the type of beverage a user will want to dispense next. For example, if a user predominantly drinks a type of beverage, then the machine can instruct the water heater to remain at the optimum temperature for that type of beverage.

Claims

REIVI DICATIONS 1. A closing mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a fixed lower part and an upper part capable of rotating being movable from an open position, in which the upper part disconnects from the lower part, and a closed position, in which the upper part is linked to the lower part, the closing mechanism further comprising an operable clamping lever for retaining the upper part in the closed position, where the clamping lever comprises a first member being pivotally connected a pivot first with the upper part and a second reciprocal member having a first end pivotable about a second pivot, one end of the first member and a second end of the second member being pivotally connected together in a third pivot such that the clamping lever have first and second stability positions, where in the operation of the clamping lever for moving the upper part of the open position to the closed position the clamping lever moves from the first position to the second stability position. A locking mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the clamping lever comprises at least one hook member for attaching a detent in the lower part. 3. A locking mechanism according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein in the first position of stability the third pivot rests on a first side of a reference line joining the first and second pivot points. A locking mechanism according to claim 3, wherein in the second stability position the third pivot rests on a second side of a reference line joining the first and second pivot points. A closing mechanism according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the first side of the reference line is the closest to the fixed bottom and the second side of the reference line is the furthest from the fixed lower part. 6. A locking mechanism according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first end of the second member is pivotally connected with the lower part. A locking mechanism according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second reciprocating member comprises a cylinder, a rod received in said cylinder and a resilient sleeve for pushing said rod into an extended configuration. A closing mechanism according to claim 7, wherein the movement of the clamping lever from the first position to the second stability position is accommodated by a deformation of the resilient sleeve. 9. A closing mechanism according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first member of the clamping lever comprises a U-shaped arm extending around a front side of the beverage preparation machine. A closing mechanism according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises two second members, one on each side of the beverage preparation machine. A closing mechanism according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the closing mechanism further comprises a cartridge holder interposed between the lower part and the upper part and being able to rotate relative to the lower part and the upper part . A closing mechanism according to claim 11, wherein the rotation of the upper part towards the lower part causes the upper part to link to the cartridge holder and to move the cartridge holder towards contact with the lower part and at the same time time to cause, in use, that inlet piercing means and outlet piercing means provided in the lower part pierce a cartridge received in the cartridge holder. 13. A closing mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a lower part and an upper part, together defining a cavity in which a beverage cartridge can be located, the upper part and the lower part being movable relative to each other from an open position in which a beverage cartridge can be received in the closing mechanism and a closed position in which the beverage cartridge is held in a fixed manner between the upper part and the lower part, where in the closed position the closing mechanism makes contact with an upper surface and a lower surface of the beverage cartridge at or near a center of the beverage cartridge to exert a compression force greater than 50 N. 14. A closing mechanism according to claim 13, wherein the closing mechanism exerts a compression force of more than 130 N. 15. A closing mechanism according to claim 13, wherein the closing mechanism exerts a compressive force. of about 200 N. 16. A locking mechanism according to any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the closing mechanism makes contact with the uppermost surface of the drink cartridge. 17. A closure mechanism according to any of claims 13 to 16, wherein the closing mechanism further contacts a peripheral flange of the beverage cartridge. 18. A closing mechanism according to any of claims 13 to 17, further comprising a member resilient that makes contact with at least a part of the upper surface of the beverage cartridge. 19. A closure mechanism according to claim 18, wherein the resilient member is a bent member. A closing mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a fixed lower part and an upper part capable of rotating relative to the lower part, the upper part being movable from an open position, in which the upper part disengages from the lower part, and a closed position, in which the upper part is linked to the lower part, the closing mechanism further comprises an operable grip lever for retaining the upper part in the closed position, where the lever grip comprises a first member being pivotally connected in a pivot first to the upper part and a second member having a first end pivotable about a second pivot, one end of the first member and a second end of the second member being pivotally connected together in a pivot third such that the grip lever has first and second stability positions, where in operation the lever grip to move the upper part of the open position to the closed position the grip lever moves from the first position to the second stability position.