DE102006004329A1 - Device and cartridge for the preparation of hot drinks - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for preparing hot beverages with an optical recognition unit for exchangeable cartridges (10) in which a powdery beverage substance (14) is received. The identification unit is provided for reading out a code (11) provided on the cartridge (10) and has at least one radiation emitter (32, 52, 54, 56) and at least one radiation detector (28, 34, 36, 38). The optical recognition unit is designed to read out the code (11) present as an optical transmission pattern. The invention also relates to a method for detecting cartridges (10) by means of optical transmission measurement and to cartridges (10) with an optical transmission pattern (11) and a production method provided for this purpose (FIG. 7).

Description

The The present invention relates to a device for preparation of hot drinks with an optical detection unit for cartridges with a powdery Beverage substance, the for the preparation of the hot drink in the Device can be used. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for the optical detection of placed in the device cartridges and corresponding cartridges and a manufacturing method for these.

was standing of the technique

devices and machines for making hot drinks, in particular for brewing Coffee is known as such in the art. To exist meanwhile different systems for the hot beverage and coffee preparation, in which separately packaged and pre-portioned quantities of beverage or Coffee powder in a designated brewing used and after brewing be removed from this again. The use of such pre-portioned, in the form of pads or capsules to facilitate packed coffee both the operation and a cleaning of the brewing device, as the coffee powder is not usually from the, as below Cartridge designated pad or capsule, can escape.

Farther can be based on cartridges based brewing excellent broth results achieve that as the beverage powder relevant parameters, such as the amount of coffee and the degree of grinding or the degree of granulation the beverage powder, already on the type of coffee or powder mixture used are coordinated. The setting of an optimal grinding degree as well a determination of the optimum amount of beverage powder, as in portafilter machines but also fully automatic coffee machines is required, can therefore in an advantageous manner omitted.

through Kartuschenbrühsystemen can Thus, in an easy way optimal Brühergebnisse be achieved, since the for the preparation essential parameters of the beverage powder used are always predetermined so that a brewing result of the highest quality, in particular in terms of taste, aroma development, consistency, crema and fragrance guaranteed can be.

While the Amount and the degree of granulation received in a cartridge powdery beverage substance always given, must be for the achievement an optimal result of the brewing too the brewing device relevant parameters, such as brewing temperature, brewing pressure, Water quantity and throughput, individually to the beverage substance used be matched. This is just with cartridge systems with a Variety of candidate cartridge contents, such as different ones Coffees, of importance. Because in a rich Assortment of different cartridges lies the incomparable Versatility of cartridge brewing systems for coffee and espresso To meet the different requirements of a large assortment of different Cartridge contents, it is necessary to that the machine-side parameters of a preparation device can be individually adapted to the cartridge contents.

So For example, WO 02/28241 A1 describes a brewing package for Preparation hotter or cold drinks, which has encoded data read by a cooker can be. The data attached to the package may be used to control the preparation device, in particular for using specific brewing configurations used, which are adapted to a brewing package used.

to Marking the brewing packages are machine-readable marks, such as colors, outlines, Icon, text, barcode and digital watermarks provided, which are detected and detected by optical means can.

Farther come as marking notches, grooves, holes, elevations and textures in question, which are mechanically detectable.

problem

While one mechanical detection of brewing packages movable components with a wear inevitably associated with it and a right requires high maintenance and care expenses are the previously known optically based recognition systems only at a relatively high level Cost to implement. So requires the detection of Text characters, barcodes, digital watermarks and / or icons a visually elaborate Image acquisition with a subsequent complex image processing, to realize an error-free detection of the cartridge.

task

The present invention is therefore based on the object to provide a simplified, less susceptible to interference and cost-effective system for detecting cartridges for the hot beverage preparation available. It should in this case in particular a simpler labeling of cartridges as well as a cost-effective, wear-free and low-maintenance detection system for a preparation device can be achieved.

invention and beneficial effects

The The object underlying the invention is achieved by means of a device for hot beverage preparation according to claim 1, a method for optical detection of in devices for hot beverage preparation usable cartridges according to claim 15, a cartridge for preparing hot drinks according to claim 20 and a manufacturing method for this Cartridges according to claim 30 solved. Further advantageous embodiments The invention are specified in the respective subclaims.

The inventive device for preparation for Hot drinks is equipped with an optical detection unit for interchangeable cartridges, in which a powdery beverage substance is included. The detection unit has to read a on the cartridges provided codes at least one radiation emitter and at least one radiation detector for electromagnetic radiation on. The at least one radiation emitter and the at least one Radiation detector are in this case arranged and / or formed, that the optical detection unit as the optical transmission pattern present code of the cartridge can read. Accordingly, the optical recognition of a cartridge arranged in the device by radiation transmitted through the cartridge code. The Optical detection unit is accordingly in optical transmission geometry educated.

in the Difference to prior art optical detection methods, all in Reflection geometry work, the device of the invention less expensive and cheaper will be realized. As in the known, on reflection geometry based systems many imaging and image-evaluating procedures and correspondingly complex components may have to be implemented in the inventive arrangement in transmission geometry, for example, the cartridge information implemented by means of a hole code be with relatively simple means, such as a or multiple photodiodes can be read.

To A first advantageous embodiment of the invention is the radiation detector for detecting the emitter-producible and the transmission pattern arranged transmitted radiation. In this case, it is provided in particular that the radiation generated by the emitter partially through the propagated through the nasal transmission pattern and subsequently from which at least one detector can be detected. The code information is deposited here in the embodiment of the transmission pattern. The transmission pattern preferably has regions different Transmittance with respect to used radiation.

In a particularly simple embodiment, for example, completely transparent and completely absorbing or reflecting portions of the transmission pattern provided with transmission coefficients in the range of 0 or 1. Further embodiments of the transmission pattern with only partial transparent or transmissive sections, i. with from 0 or 1 different transmission coefficients are readily conceivable. Rather, you can Also spectrally selective sections may be provided, the different Absorption or transmission coefficients for different spectral Bandwidths have.

To a further advantageous embodiment of the invention is the optical detection unit for reading a two-dimensional transmission pattern present codes of the cartridge provided. A two-dimensional Design of the transmission pattern allows an increase in for the Code usable amount of data. On the other hand, the transmission pattern must not necessarily linear, but can be any, for the Geometry of the cartridge take advantage of two-dimensional shape.

To a further preferred embodiment of the invention are the radiation emitters and / or the radiation detectors essentially two-dimensional in structure and / or geometry arranged according to the transmission pattern.

From The advantage here is when the detectors and / or emitter respectively individual surface elements associated with the transmission pattern of the cartridge. An assignment This can be done by the positioning or arrangement of Detectors and emitters within the device and the other using wave or light guiding structures and Media take place, which generated by the emitter and / or the of Pattern transmitted radiation to the surface elements of the pattern or as possible to the detectors lead lossless. This is particularly advantageous if for individual surface elements the transmission pattern is provided in each case a detector.

For the as Transmission pattern on the cartridge to be deposited code a spatially given bit structure on the cartridge of advantage.

To a further embodiment the device is provided that the at least one radiation emitter and the at least one radiation detector on opposite Pages one for the cartridge provided receiving area are arranged. Preferably can the for the cartridge provided receiving area for replacing the cartridges open and closed, for example, the receiving area Limiting sides against each other designed to be movable or pivotable or can be e.g. at least one of the pages can be folded away.

By the arrangement of radiation detector and radiation emitter on opposite and possibly against each other pivotable or movable sides of the receiving area is already working in transmission geometry detection unit realized. Preferably, the at least one radiation detector and the at least one radiation emitter congruent opposite arranged so that the inserted into the receiving area cartridge with its present as a transmission pattern code essentially as aperture for the radiation generated by the emitter acts.

To a preferred embodiment is provided that the at least one radiation emitter and the at least one radiation detector on the same side of the cartridge arranged receiving area are arranged. In this configuration are still optical guide or Reflectors provided by means of which generated by the emitter and / or the radiation transmitted by the transmission pattern either to Transmission pattern or to the detector can be transmitted.

Especially This type of arrangement has the advantage that all electrically controlled Components, such as radiation emitter and radiation detector of the detection unit, on a common side of the intended for the cartridge Recording area can be arranged. Thus, these are optical Components no longer adjustable against each other, but remain fixed in their positions. In addition, both the radiation emitter as well as the radiation detectors in this arrangement at the same Side of the receiving area without complex wiring of a common Control unit operated.

To a further preferred embodiment The invention provides that for the transmission of the emitter producible optical radiation towards the transmission pattern and / or for transmission the radiation transmitted by the transmission pattern towards the detector optical guidance means, as wave or light guides, are provided. By means of such optical guide means, preferably a much higher refractive index than air above all, it is possible any loss of intensity to effectively counteract beam propagation within the system. In addition, allow Such optical guide means a variable and the installation needs fair positioning of detector and emitter.

Farther it is envisaged that with an arrangement of emitter and detector on the same side of the the cartridge provided receiving area at the emitter and Detectors opposite Side of the receiving area at least one reflector is arranged. The radiation generated by the emitter can be inside or to the side of the receiving area freely propagate, at the rear of the cartridge reflected reflector and thus directed to the cartridge become. There she finally meets the transmission pattern, so that from this transmitted and information-bearing radiation components from which at least one detector can be detected.

Farther is provided according to the invention that the at least one emitter outside for the Cartridge provided receiving area of the device to lie comes, and that for the application of the at least one detector remote cartridge side with radiation a substantially sickle-like, arch-like or L-shaped trained light or Waveguide is provided. This light or waveguide fulfills this essentially the function of the reflector described above, namely to the effect that even with an arrangement of emitter and detector side by side detecting the in the form of an optical transmission pattern present codes of the cartridge in transmission geometry done can.

through it is a reflector and / or a light or waveguide thus generally possible even with an equilateral, juxtaposed and not opposite Arrangement of emitter and detector an optical readout of the cartridge code in transmission geometry.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, the substantially crescent-shaped, arcuate or L-shaped light or waveguide for transmitting the transmitted from the transmission pattern of the cartridge radiation toward the detector is formed, which is arranged here outside the intended for the cartridge receiving area. In this case, it is particularly advantageous if a separate radiation emitter is provided for each of the surface elements of the transmission pattern. In particular, if the individual radiation emitters are activated in a predetermined time sequence, or if the individual radiation emitters have different radiation intensities, a spatially resolved pattern recognition is possible even using only a single detector.

Depending on the component costs for Emitters and detectors, the number of detectors required and / or Emitter under consideration the requirement profile and the total cost of the system become. It is therefore particularly such configurations with essentially only one emitter and a plurality of detectors or even with only one detector and a plurality of emitters conceivable.

From Another advantage is that the over the area of the transmission pattern transmitted radiation by means of a the radiation bundling and / or junctional Fiber optic structure to which at least one detector can be fed. In this configuration, the device according to the invention can even with only a single detector for operated the transmitted from the transmission pattern of the cartridge light become. To the spatially resolved Reading out the preferably two-dimensional transmission pattern In this case, essentially two operating modes for the detection unit are obtained question.

To a first operating mode is provided that at least two Emitters are provided with different radiation intensity, so alone can be determined on the basis of the detected transmitted intensity whether the radiation is only one of the at least two emitters, the radiation of both Emitter or no radiation from the emitter through the individual Emitters assigned surface elements propagate through the transmission pattern. Based on this, that the code of the transmission pattern is binary, that is, that the individual surface elements of the transmission pattern either a transmittance of 0 or 1 and that the individual surface elements of the transmission pattern associated emitter have a clearly distinguishable intensity, can by means of the radiation bundling Fiber optic structure and using only one detector Transmission pattern of the cartridge are read out with sufficient accuracy.

Come a plurality of individual emitters, such as, for example an intensity of single emitters multiplied by increasing powers of two meaningful. is The relationship the radiation powers of individual emitters, for example 2, 4, 8, 16, etc., so can only by means of a measurement of the total intensity of the transmitted Radiation determines the structure of the transmission pattern and thus the code will be read out.

Of the second mode of operation, on the other hand, can operate with emitters of the same intensity. These are activated offset in time, so that, for example in each case only one of the emitter emits radiation. Under note a given temporal activation scheme for each emitter Ultimately, the transmission pattern can be determined solely on the basis of the radiation intensity detected over time and thus the code of the cartridge is read out and determined.

To a further preferred embodiment is an open position of the recording area for the insertable into the device cartridge by means of at least a detector and the at least one emitter detectable. This can advantageously a safety mechanism for the brewing device that is to be implemented when open Reception area where the cartridge is replaced and the Device not is ready for operation, a possible incorrect operation reliably excluded can be.

to Detection of an open position of the recording area reflective or radiative Be provided elements that ensure that when closed Recording area a minimum intensity is detected by the detector. If a cartridge is to be replaced, the receiving area in an open position, what typically with a pivoting or shifting of the reflective or radiation-conducting element, so that the detector detectable radiation below the predetermined minimum intensity decreases. Becomes a radiation intensity measured below the predetermined minimum threshold, so can the brewing function the device then be disabled for security reasons which preferably automatically he follows.

To another independent Aspect, the invention relates to a method for optical detection of cartridges in which a powdery beverage substance is included and can be used in devices for hot beverage preparation. On the cartridges a code is provided, which with radiation of at least one radiation emitter is acted upon. For reading of the code and for detecting the cartridge used in the device the radiation transmitted by the code is transmitted by means of at least one Detected radiation detector. The code provided on the cartridge is therefore designed as a transmission pattern.

According to a preferred embodiment the radiation transmitted by the two-dimensional code is detected in a spatially resolved manner. For this purpose, for example, a plurality of radiation detectors are provided which can determine the transmittance of individual discrete surface elements of the code. The radiation power detected by the plurality of detectors thus directly corresponds to the transmission pattern of the optical transmission code provided on the cartridge.

To a further embodiment is provided that on different surface elements of the transmission computer transmitted radiation superimposed by means of optical wave or light guide or merges and the at least one detector is supplied. In this detection mode can be a spatially resolved Detecting the code using a variety of different emitters intensity respectively. Alternative or supplementary For this purpose, a time-shifted admission is different Code sections by means of appropriate activation of the code sections assigned emitters possible.

in this connection is particularly advantageous when the radiant power of single emitter, for example, differs by a factor of two. Based a measured total intensity let yourself then every constellation of binary Clearly assign transmission patterns.

To another independent Aspect relates to the invention, a cartridge for the preparation of hot drinks, the a powdery beverage substance contains. The cartridge has an optically readable code for machine Recognition of the cartridge, which is designed as an optical transmission pattern is. In contrast to the prior art, therefore, no imaging Procedure for the detection of a cartridge arranged on the code required. The embodiment of the code in the form of an optical transmission pattern allows a simple and inexpensive Implementation of an optical detection unit for the cartridge.

From Advantage here is if the code as a two-dimensional transmission pattern is trained. This increases on the one hand, the information density of the code and also allows one Space-saving and variable design of the transmission pattern, which for example, flexible to the geometry and the dimensions the cartridge can be adjusted. The advantage here is that the code is provided on an edge-side housing section of the cartridge can be. This arrangement of the code is advantageous because it thus outside one for the beverage substance arranged receiving area of the cartridge is arranged, the for optical Transmission measurements due to the existing beverage powder seems inappropriate. The peripheral housing section for the code In this case, it may in particular be designed as a marginal extension which simultaneously as a handle or grip tab for the cartridge can serve.

To a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention the for the code provided housing section predefined perforations. The arrangement and size of each holes or perforations here is the configuration of the radiation emitter or radiation detectors of the brewing device or their detection unit adapted. In one in the brewing device inserted cartridge come the housing side perforations of the Cartridge congruent with those provided on the device Apertures for to be the transmitted and emitted by the emitters radiation.

The in the housing section provided and predefined perforations carry this essentially no code information. They rather form basic elements or Information bits for the code information to be attached to the cartridge.

So In particular, it is provided that the predefined on the housing section Perforations are coated with at least one layer that is in shape a location-coded transmission pattern carries the code information.

To a preferred embodiment is this perforation of the housing covering layer as a perforated Formed film, wherein the film perforations with the housing perforations in Are substantially congruent.

To an alternative embodiment, the code information in Form of sealed or filled housing perforations are location coded. Instead of a foil cover can for code information storage also single of the predefined Gehäuseperforationen filled or otherwise closed.

This on a slide or backfill based on applying code information to the cartridge the advantage of that for Cartridges with different beverage substance a common housing type with same predefined perforations can be used. A Coded labeling of differently filled cartridges then takes place in a simple manner merely by attaching an information-bearing layer. It can be provided in particular that only after attaching an imperforate layer by piercing them with the Code information is provided.

To a further preferred embodiment At the same time, the layer carrying the code information is simultaneously a shutter for the Cartridge formed. For example, in the form of a film trained Cartridge closure is doing a double function. An additional Applying an information-bearing layer can therefore be advantageous Way omitted.

Farther is provided that the cartridge housing as a plastic injection molded part is trained. Such plastic injection parts are in large quantities with any geometry, in particular with the predefined perforations economical produced.

From Another advantage is the serving as a closure and / or as an information carrier perforated foil formed as a metal foil. The combination of Plastic injection molding and metal foil allows for airtight and hermetic closure for the cartridge, which has a positive effect on the quality and durability of the Cartridge recorded beverage substance effect.

To another independent Aspect, the invention relates to a process for the preparation of cartridge according to the invention. This is a cartridge case, which has peripheral perforations, with a beverage substance filled and subsequently covered with a layer covering the marginal perforations. In the field of housing perforations the coating layer is the pierce the code to be attached to the cartridge accordingly. consequently arises at a marginal housing portion of the cartridge a hole or transmission pattern, which optically in transmission geometry read from a brewing device can be. The optical recognition of such a transmission pattern can be done with simple optical detectors, such as photodiodes.

From Advantage is the cartridge housing produced by means of a plastic injection process, the cost-neutral Way the production of peripheral housing perforations allows. In addition, such plastic injection processes for a cost-effective mass production from cartridge cases well suited.

Farther it is envisaged that both the intended area for the beverage substance the cartridge as well as the perforations having edge region of the cartridge housing closed and / or coated by means of a common metal foil become. Attaching a pre-perforated according to the code information Film is therefore not required. It is rather intended that the entire cartridge at least one-sided with a single Covered film will, which subsequently in the marginal perforation of the housing to be attached to the housing Code is perforated accordingly.

embodiments

Further Objectives, advantages, features and applications of the present Invention will become apparent from the following description of the Characters. All form described and / or illustrated features in all meaningful combination the subject of the present invention, also independent from the claims or their remittances.

It demonstrate:

1 a cartridge according to the invention in plan view and in cross section,

2 the perforated cartridge edge in cross-section at different stages of the manufacturing process,

3 the provided on the cartridge transmission pattern in plan view,

4 an embodiment of the detection unit with an emitter and a plurality of detectors,

5 an embodiment of the detection unit, in which emitters and detectors are arranged on the same side of the receiving area,

6 one of the 5 corresponding embodiment with reflector,

7 another embodiment with an emitter and a plurality of detectors,

8a to 8d an embodiment with a radiation-bundling light or waveguide and a detector,

9 another one 7 substantially corresponding embodiment,

10 a representation of the embodiment according to 9 in the operating mode and

11 the embodiment according to the 9 and 10 with opened cartridge receiving area.

In 1 is a substantially circular shaped cartridge 10 with a circumferential cartridge edge 12 shown. The edge 12 is here as a radially outwardly extending flange formed during the radially inner region of the cartridge 10 for receiving a beverage substance 14 is provided and there has a corresponding recess in cross-section. The top of the cartridge 10 is with a layer 16 , in particular with a metal foil 16 overdrawn. This covers both the radially inner area for the beverage substance 14 as well as the surrounding cartridge edge 12 ,

In 2 are the sequential steps of making one at the edge 12 the cartouche 10 shown optical transmission pattern shown. Starting from a perforated and enlarged cross-section shown edge portion 12 the cartouche 10 , the individual case perforations 18 . 20 . 22 has, in a first step, the entire perforated housing portion 12 with a foil 16 overdrawn.

For introducing code information and for generating an optical transmission pattern is attached to the cartridge code 11 corresponding places by means of a stamping pin or stamp 24 the foil 16 punctured. Here are individual foil perforations 26 formed, as in 2 shown below, with the housing perforations 18 and 22 are congruent. The housing perforation 20 however, it stays off the slide 16 covered. Due to this production-efficient production method for hot beverage cartridges can be dispensed with a costly labeling, such as by printing the cartridge housing with a bar code in an advantageous manner. An identification of the cartridge can now be done by simply piercing a film according to a predetermined location-coded pattern.

3 shows a preferred arrangement of a code 11 supporting transmission pattern in the edge area 12 a hot beverage cartouche 10 , The individual perforations 18 . 26 In this case, they can be arranged in any desired geometry, provided that the detection unit of the brewing device has correspondingly arranged radiation emitters and radiation detectors. The geometric arrangement of the individual housings and foil perforations 18 . 26 can be regularly or irregularly rectilinear or arbitrarily curved along the edge 12 run. The arbitrary geometric arrangement of individual perforations of the peripheral transmission pattern 11 allow a flexible adaptation of the pattern 11 to the housing geometry of the cartridge 10 ,

With respect to the transmission pattern provided on the cartridge 11 the invention is by no means limited to binary transmission patterns with optionally perforated or radiation-absorbing or reflecting surface elements. Rather, of course, partially transparent or partially absorbent films 16 Use, in turn, have over the surface of the transmission pattern either a homogeneous or over the surface varying transmittance. Besides, it is also possible that the film 16 Surface elements having different spectral absorption or transmission properties, so that the optical detection of the transmission pattern not only monochromatic, but also over a large spectral range, for example from UV to infrared, can be done.

4 shows an embodiment of a detection unit of the brewing device, which is a radiation emitter 32 and a plurality of radiation detectors 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 having. The radiation emitter 32 For example, which is formed as a light-emitting diode (LED), for example, preferably emits radiation 30 in the visible or infrared spectral range. The radiation emitter 32 is in the in 4 shown configuration above a cartridge area 60 arranged in which the cartridge for beverage preparation is placed.

The cartridge is not shown explicitly in this illustration. Shown are only those with foil 16 coated cartridge edge 12 in cross section. Down is the cartridge area 60 from the case 27 limited, in which the individual radiation detectors 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 are arranged. The housing 27 points according to the perforations 18 of the cartridge edge 12 Openings on, so that from the transmission pattern of the cartridge edge 12 transmitted radiation to the perforations 18 associated detectors 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 can propagate.

For better optical coupling of the perforations 18 of the cartridge edge 12 and the individual detectors 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 are in the openings provided for the transmitted light passages of the housing 27 individual light or waveguide elements 40 . 42 . 44 . 46 intended. The light entry opening which lies at the top is essentially congruent with the housing perforations 18 . 20 . 22 of the cartridge edge 12 ,

Due to the perforation 26 the foil 16 In the example shown, only the detectors can be used 34 and 38 detect a radiation intensity transmitted by the transmission pattern.

5 shows a further embodiment of the optical detection unit for the removable cartridge. Here are the radiation detectors 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 and the emitter 32 not on opposite sides of the receiving area 60 but are located on the same side, namely on the lower side of the Aufnahmebe Reich 60 , In order to enable an optical transmission measurement of the transmission pattern is in the embodiment according to 5 a light or radiation-conducting structure 48 intended. This is essentially L-shaped, sickle-shaped or arc-shaped.

The emitter 32 emitted radiation 30 becomes laterally in the light or waveguide 48 coupled, which finally directs the coupled radiation from above to the transmission pattern of the cartridge. Across from 4 is a configuration in which both radiation emitters and the radiation detectors are on the same side of the pick-up area 60 are arranged, since all electrical and light-generating and lichtdetektierende components on one side of the pivotable or at least adjustable trained cartridge area 60 are arranged. A control unit or electrical components for evaluating the optical signals can thus be spatially combined and thus even integrated in a common module. This is in terms of space requirements, the ease of maintenance of the device and for cost reasons an advantage.

6 shows a further embodiment of the device for detecting the removable cartridge. Here are a total of two emitters 32 provided, the side of the receiving area 60 for the cartridge 10 are arranged. At the housing 27 opposite section of the cartridge area 60 is a reflector 50 , For example, in the form of a concave mirror provided. This fulfills a similar task as the light or waveguide 48 according to 5 , That from the emitters 32 emitted radiation field is from the reflector 50 reflected down so that the perforations 18 . 26 the cartridge in transmission geometry of the detectors 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 can be detected.

In 7 is finally one of the 5 similar configuration of housing 27 , Recording area 60 and light or waveguide 48 shown. In contrast to the embodiment according to 5 here are however several emitters 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 inside the case 27 and below the transmission pattern of the cartridge 10 arranged. The detector 28 is located at the side of the receiving area 60 for the cartridge 10 and gets into the light guide 48 fed coupled and transmitted by the cartridge radiation.

The arrangement of detectors 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 and emitters 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 are in the embodiments according to the 5 and 7 almost reversed. Likewise propagates the generated radiation in the light or radiation-conducting structures 40 . 42 . 44 . 46 . 48 in reverse directions. The example of the emitter 52 emitted radiation packet propagated through the light guide 42 and by the transmission pattern of the edge of the cartridge 12 passing it into the photoconductive structure 48 coupled and ultimately laterally to the detector 28 to be led.

Across from 5 is the configuration after 7 to the extent that only a single - compared to emitters cost-intensive - detector 28 to detect the transmission pattern is required.

For spatially resolved reading of the cartridge 10 provided transmission pattern are in the embodiment according to 7 essentially two operating modes conceivable.

On the one hand, it can be provided that the individual emitters 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 have different radiant powers. In particular, when the available radiant powers between adjacent emitters 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 Doubling is a one-to-one mapping of any binary transmission pattern by mere detection of the into the light pipe 48 coupled and transmitted by the pattern total intensity possible. In this context, a binary transmission pattern means discrete transmission values of either 0 or 1.

Another mode of operation of the embodiment according to 7 is in the 8a to 8d clarified. Again, a single detector in combination with a variety of radiation-emitting elements 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 intended. Similar to the light or radiation conductor 48 according to 7 is in the 8a to 8d a light or radiation coupler 58 provided in which the from the edge of the case 12 transmitted radiation coupled and always to the same detector 28 to be led.

The single ones 8a to 8d each show snapshots of a time-shifted activation of individual emitters 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 , In 8a the detector detects 28 the emitter 32 emitted radiation. In 8b propagates the emitter 52 generated radiation while in 8c the radiation of the emitter 54 through the waveguiding structure 58 to the detector 28 is guided. Only in 8d is the beam propagation of the emitter 56 Radiation generated by the at the edge of the cartridge 12 planned transmission patterns interrupted. In this case, no sufficient radiation intensity arrives at the detector. The one with the emitter 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 and the detector 28 coupled detection unit is therefore in the cases of 8a to 8c set a logical 1 while the case according to 8d gives a logical 0. In this way you get the binary Code 1, 1, 1, 0.

9 essentially shows the 7 corresponding embodiment in a schematic representation. Here are a total of six single emitter and a single detector 28 intended. The recording area 60 for the cartridge is down here from the case 27 and upwards from a hinged lid 62 limited. The light guide 48 is mechanically attached to the lid 62 coupled. In the in the 9 and 10 closed lid 62 is at least a minimum radiant power in the wave or light guide 48 coupled so that the detector 28 at least a minimum light intensity is detected.

Will the lid 62 for example, for removal or insertion of a cartridge, as in 11 shown, opened, the radiation coupling between the light or waveguide changes 98 and the detector 28 serious. Compared to the configurations according to the 9 and 10 will be in the open position of the lid 62 a much lower radiation intensity at the detector 28 which is typically below a threshold for the operation of the brewing device.

Based on this low on the detector 28 As a result, the system detects automatically that the cover is present 62 is in an open position, so that a safety shutdown of the brewing device can take place. The detection system consisting of radiation emitters and radiation detectors or detectors for the cartridge thus also provides a safety-relevant deactivation of the brewing function of the brewing device.

10

cartridge

11

code

12

cartridges edge

14

beverage substance

16

foil

18

Gehäuseperforation

20

Gehäuseperforation

22

Gehäuseperforation

24

embossing tool

26

film perforation

27

casing

28

detector

30

radiation

32

emitter

34

detector

36

detector

38

detector

40

optical fiber

42

optical fiber

44

optical fiber

46

optical fiber

48

optical fiber

50

reflector

52

emitter

54

emitter

56

emitter

58

Light / radiation coupler

60

cartridges range

62

cover

Claims (32)

Device for preparing hot drinks with an optical detection unit for interchangeable cartridges ( 10 ) in which a powdery beverage substance ( 14 ), wherein the detection unit for reading one of the cartridges ( 10 ) ( 11 ) at least one radiation emitter ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) and at least one radiation detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ), characterized in that the optical detection unit for reading the code present as an optical transmission pattern ( 11 ) is trained. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) for detecting the emitter ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) radiation that can be generated and transmitted by the transmission pattern ( 30 ) is arranged. Device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the optical detection unit for reading a present as a two-dimensional transmission pattern code ( 11 ) is provided. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the radiation emitters ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) and / or radiation detectors ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) substantially two-dimensionally of the structure and / or geometry of the transmission pattern ( 11 ) are arranged accordingly. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one radiation emitter and the at least one radiation detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) on opposite sides of one for the cartridge ( 10 ) receiving area ( 60 ) are arranged. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the at least one radiation emitter ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) and the at least one radiation detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) on the same side of the cartridge ( 10 ) receiving area ( 60 ) are arranged. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that for the transmission of the emitter ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) producible optical radiation ( 30 ) to the transmission pattern and / or transmission of the radiation transmitted by the transmission pattern ( 30 ) to the detector optical guide means ( 40 . 42 . 44 . 46 . 48 ) are provided. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims 6 or 7, characterized in that at the the emitters ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) and detectors ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) opposite side of the receiving area ( 60 ) at least one reflector ( 50 ) is arranged. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the at least one emitter ( 32 ) outside of the cartridge ( 10 ) receiving area ( 60 ) comes to rest and for applying the at least one detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) facing away from the cartridge side with radiation ( 30 ) a substantially sickle-shaped, arcuate or L-shaped light or waveguide ( 48 ) is provided. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the at least one detector ( 28 ) outside the reception area ( 60 ) and for transmission of the transmission pattern of the cartridge ( 11 ) transmitted radiation ( 30 ) to the detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) a substantially sickle-shaped, arcuate or L-shaped light or waveguide ( 48 ) at the emitter ( 32 ) opposite side of the receiving area ( 60 ) is provided. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the over the surface of the transmission pattern ( 11 ) transmitted radiation ( 30 ) by means of a beam guiding and / or converging optical waveguide structure ( 58 ) the at least one detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) can be fed. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two emitters ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) are provided with different radiation intensity. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device for a time-delayed activation of individual radiation emitter ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) is trained. Device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that an open position of the receiving area ( 60 ) by means of the at least one detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) and the at least one emitter ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) is detectable. Process for the optical recognition of cartridges usable in devices for hot beverage preparation ( 10 ) in which a powdery beverage substance ( 14 ), whereby a code provided on the cartridges ( 11 ) with at least one radiation emitter ( 32 . 52 . 54 . 56 ) generated radiation ( 30 ), characterized in that the code ( 11 ) transmitted radiation ( 30 ) by means of at least one radiation detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) is detected. Method according to claim 15, characterized in that the code formed by the two-dimensional code ( 11 ) transmitted radiation ( 30 ) is detected spatially resolved. Method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that the code ( 11 ) transmitted radiation ( 30 ) by means of optical wave or light guides ( 48 ; 58 superposed and the at least one detector ( 28 . 34 . 36 . 38 ) is supplied. Method according to claim 17, characterized in that the code is spatially resolved with radiation ( 30 ) of different intensity is applied and a detection of the cartridge ( 10 ) takes place on the basis of the detected total radiation intensity. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims 15 to 18, characterized in that different sections of the code ( 11 ) in chronological order with radiation ( 30 ). Cartridge for the preparation of hot drinks, containing a powdery beverage substance, with an optically readable code ( 11 ) for automatic detection of the cartridge ( 10 ), characterized in that the code ( 11 ) is formed as an optical transmission pattern. Cartridge according to claim 20, characterized in that the code ( 11 ) is formed as a two-dimensional transmission pattern. Cartridge according to claim 20 or 21, characterized in that the code ( 11 ) on a peripheral housing section ( 12 ) of the cartridge ( 10 ) is provided. Cartridge according to one or more of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that the code ( 11 ) provided housing section ( 12 ) predefined perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) having. Cartridge according to claim 23, characterized in that the individual perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) with at least one layer ( 16 ), which in the form of a location-coded transmission pattern encode the code information ( 11 ) wearing. Cartridge according to Claim 24, characterized in that the layer is in the form of a perforated film ( 16 ), wherein the foil perforations ( 26 ) with the housing perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) are substantially congruent. Cartridge according to one or more of the preceding claims 20 to 25, characterized in that the code information ( 11 ) in the form of sealed or filled housing perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) is present coded. Cartridge according to one or more of the preceding claims 24 to 26, characterized in that the code information ( 11 ) supporting layer ( 16 ) simultaneously as a closure of the cartridge ( 10 ) is trained. Cartridge according to one or more of the preceding claims 20 to 27, characterized in that the cartridge housing ( 12 ) is designed as a plastic injection molded part. Cartridge according to one or more of the preceding claims 25 to 28, characterized in that the perforated foil ( 16 ) is formed as a metal foil. Method for producing a cartridge according to one or more of the preceding claims 20 to 29, characterized in that a peripheral perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) Cartridge housing ( 12 ) with the beverage substance ( 14 ) and by means of one the perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) covering layer ( 16 ), which in the area of the housing perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) the code to be applied ( 11 ) is pierced accordingly. A method according to claim 30, characterized in that the cartridge housing ( 12 ) is produced by means of a plastic injection process. Method according to one of the preceding claims 30 or 31, characterized in that both for the beverage substance ( 14 ) and the perforations ( 18 . 20 . 22 ) edge region ( 12 ) of the cartridge housing by means of a metal foil ( 16 ) are closed and / or coated.