EP4304976A1

EP4304976A1 - Beverage preparation machine with a locking means and a coupling element, and beverage preparation system

Info

Publication number: EP4304976A1
Application number: EP22714782.4A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Gabriel Stösser
Original assignee: Freezio AG
Current assignee: Freezio AG
Priority date: 2021-03-11
Filing date: 2022-03-11
Publication date: 2024-01-17
Also published as: JP2024510592A; US20240140774A1; CN116963992A; BR112023016339A2; KR20230142611A; AU2022231982A1; IL304987A; WO2022189623A1; CA3209752A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a beverage preparation machine (1), in particular a dispenser, for preparing a beverage using a cartridge system consisting of a cartridge (10), which has a beverage substance in a reservoir (11), and a cartridge receiving area (14), which is connected to the cartridge (10) and has at least one liquid supply opening (19), a mixing chamber, and a beverage outlet (15), wherein the beverage preparation machine (1) comprises a cartridge mounting (4), in particular a cartridge mounting which has a balcony-like design, the cartridge system can be inserted into the cartridge mounting (4), and the beverage preparation machine (1) comprises a liquid reservoir (3), a liquid thermal conditioning system for thermally conditioning a liquid from the liquid reservoir (3), a coupling element (21) for selectively coupling between the liquid thermal conditioning system and the liquid supply opening (19) of the cartridge receiving area (14), and a controller for controlling the beverage preparation machine (1). The coupling element (21) has at least one liquid line (22), and the cartridge mounting (4) has at least one locking means (8) which is designed to reversibly lock the cartridge system in the cartridge mounting (4). The locking means (8) can be reversibly converted from an unlocked position into a locked position, and the locking means (8) interacts with the cartridge system in the locked position in a form- and/or force-fitting manner.

Description

DESCRIPTION

title

Beverage preparation machine with a locking means and a coupling element and a beverage preparation system

State of the art

The invention relates to a beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage using a cartridge system.

Such beverage preparation machines are known in principle from the prior art, for example from EP 2 017221 A1 and WO 96/36556 A1, and are used for the production of beverages from pre-portioned cartridges. The production of beverages with such beverage preparation machines is extremely convenient for the user since he only has to insert a cartridge into the beverage preparation machine and initiate a start procedure. The beverage preparation machine, also referred to as a dispenser, then takes over the production of the beverage in a fully automated manner, i.e. in particular that the preferably liquid beverage substance is mixed with a predetermined quantity of liquid, in particular cold and carbonated water, and fed into a drinking vessel. In this way, mixed drinks in particular can be produced much more easily, quickly and with less effort for the user. The user can choose from a variety of different cartridges with different beverage substances, so that he can produce different beverages as he likes.

It is important with such beverage preparation machines that the cartridge is held securely in the beverage preparation machine, so that on the one hand there are no leaks and on the other hand no recontamination occurs. In particular, it must be ensured that a user does not remove the cartridge from the beverage preparation machine before the beverage preparation is complete, since otherwise liquid can escape from the beverage preparation machine in an uncontrolled manner. Furthermore, it is crucial for leak-free operation that there is a reliable coupling between the liquid supply of the beverage preparation machine and the cartridge.

Disclosure of Invention It was therefore the object of the present invention to provide a beverage preparation machine that meets these requirements. In particular, leak-free beverage production without recontamination of components of the beverage preparation machine should be made possible. At the same time, the beverage preparation machine should offer a high level of operating comfort and be able to be implemented cost-effectively.

The issue is solved with a beverage preparation machine according to claim 1.

The statements relating to this subject of the present invention also apply equally to the other subjects of the present invention and vice versa.

The present invention relates to a beverage preparation machine, in particular a dispenser, for preparing a beverage by means of a cartridge system consisting of a cartridge, which has a beverage substance in a reservoir, and a cartridge receptacle connected to the cartridge, the at least one

Having liquid supply opening, a mixing chamber and a beverage outlet. The cartridge has a cavity as a reservoir in which the beverage substance is located. This substrate is preferably liquid and in particular a concentrate and is mixed with a liquid, in particular water, to produce a drink and then placed in a container, preferably a drinking vessel, in particular a glass and/or a cup, which is particularly preferably placed on a holder below the cartridge arranged edition of the dispenser is in a storage area, collected. The storage area includes in particular a liquid collection device. This liquid collection device is used, for example, to collect residual liquid that drips from the beverage outlet and/or the liquid outlet, or if a user does not place a container or a drinking vessel in the storage area in good time before the start of the beverage preparation, or does not position it correctly or it before the end removed from the preparation. The beverage substance preferably includes liquid pre-mix components for soft drinks, such as caffeine-containing, carbonated, fruit- and/or sugar-containing lemonades and/or juices, beer (mixed) drinks or other alcoholic or non-alcoholic (mixed) drinks. The cartridge preferably has a cartridge opening which is particularly preferably closed off by means of a sealing element, for example a sealing foil, and is thereby separated from the mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle. The cartridge holder is preferably firmly connected, in particular non-rotatably, to the cartridge in a connection area. The beverage preparation machine comprises a cartridge holder, in particular configured like a balcony, with the cartridge system being able to be inserted into the cartridge holder. Balcony-like preferably means that the cartridge holder protrudes laterally from a housing of the beverage preparation machine and has a substantially horizontal extension. The position of the cartridge holder is preferably arranged from a support surface of the beverage preparation machine at a height which corresponds to 20-90% of the total height of the beverage preparation machine, particularly preferably 40-80%, very particularly preferably 50-70% and in particular essentially 60%. Particularly preferably, the cartridge holder is at least partially height-adjustable.

The beverage preparation machine preferably includes a housing in which at least some of the components are completely or partially housed. The cartridge holder particularly preferably protrudes from this housing.

The beverage preparation machine also includes a liquid reservoir and a liquid conditioning system for conditioning a liquid from the liquid reservoir. The liquid is preferably water. The liquid reservoir is particularly preferably a liquid tank which is very particularly preferably at least partially arranged in the housing of the beverage preparation machine. Partly means in particular that, for example, the liquid tank is arranged between a bottom surface and/or a cover of the housing, but an outer wall of the liquid tank is an outer wall of the beverage preparation machine. Alternatively or additionally, the beverage preparation machine includes a connection to an external liquid supply network, for example a public water network. The beverage preparation machine particularly preferably includes a liquid processing means, in particular a filter device, which is very particularly preferably arranged in the liquid tank, so that the liquid must flow out of the liquid tank through the filter device before it leaves the same. The liquid conditioning system draws liquid from the liquid reservoir and conditions it. In the present case, this preferably includes temperature control, in particular cooling, and carbonization, ie the addition of carbon dioxide to the liquid. The person skilled in the art understands that the tempering can easily also include heating the liquid in addition to or as an alternative to cooling, ie generally tempering the liquid to a predetermined temperature. The liquid conditioning system makes the liquid conditioned in this way, that is to say in particular cooled and carbonated, available to the cartridge system via a coupling element, where it is mixed with the beverage substance in the mixing chamber.

In order to move the liquid from the liquid reservoir in the direction of the cartridge system, the beverage preparation machine, in particular the liquid conditioning system, comprises at least one pump for pumping the liquid. The pump is preferably an oscillating armature pump, but diaphragm pumps and/or rotary pumps can also be used as an alternative or in addition. Those skilled in the art will understand that pumps are standardized components that are typically purchased and that the specifications of the pump are chosen to meet the needs of the beverage preparation machine while minimizing cost.

It is therefore provided according to a preferred embodiment that the beverage preparation machine comprises at least a first and a second pump, which are preferably connected in parallel. The pumps are particularly preferably operated in alternative phases of a wave-like activation. In this way, it is possible in a particularly advantageous manner to use two standardized pumps which together have the same output, instead of a pump designed and manufactured specifically for the beverage preparation machine. Of course it is also possible in this way to operate three, four, five or more pumps. In particular, for example, two pumps that are connected in series can also be operated in parallel with two other pumps that are also connected in series. The person skilled in the art understands that due to the space restrictions, however, the smallest possible number of pumps is desirable.

The beverage preparation machine, in particular the liquid conditioning system, preferably comprises at least one flow measuring device, which is particularly preferably connected to the control device in order to make the measured values available to it, with the control device being intended in particular to use these measured values in particular to control the pump. A flow measuring device is very particularly preferably provided in front of each pump.

Preferably, the liquid conditioning system includes a

Compression chiller, an absorption chiller and/or a thermoelectric and/or thermoacoustic chiller. A compression refrigeration machine is particularly preferably used in the beverage preparation machine according to the invention. Such a compression refrigerating machine comprises at least one Heat exchanger, a compressor, a condenser and a throttle, in particular a capillary tube and/or an expansion valve. Alternatively or additionally, the beverage preparation machine includes a heating machine. Usually, however, it is desirable to provide a chilled beverage and therefore chill the liquid. The heat exchanger is very particularly preferably an in-line heat exchanger. This means in particular that the heat exchanger is integrated into the liquid path, for example is formed around a liquid line. In this way, the installation space of the beverage preparation machine is advantageously used efficiently.

To create carbonated beverages, the liquid conditioning system includes a carbon dioxide source, a metering device, and a mixing device. In particular, commercially available carbon dioxide cartridges or cylinders come into consideration as the carbon dioxide source. Alternatively or additionally, the beverage preparation machine can also have connection options to an external carbon dioxide source.

Further, the liquid conditioning system includes at least one compensator for reducing the pressure of the carbonated liquid. In this way, a reliable and controlled dispensing of the liquid is achieved in an advantageous manner, so that the carbonated liquid, in particular, does not splash when it exits the beverage preparation machine. A predetermined pressure of the liquid can be set by means of the compensator. The compensator is preferably provided in a controllable manner for this purpose. The compensator is particularly preferably adjusted at the factory, ie during manufacture of the beverage preparation machine, alternatively or additionally the compensator can be adjusted by a user and/or the control device. As a result, the quality of the drink produced can advantageously be increased. For example, such a compensator comprises a substantially conically shaped line section in which a longitudinally displaceable conical insert is arranged. Adjusting the conical insert changes the gap between the insert and the line, which changes the pressure accordingly. Such a compensator is an inline compensator, ie a compensator integrated into the liquid line. The pressure upstream of the compensator is preferably 6-14 bar, particularly preferably 8-12 bar, in particular 10 bar, and downstream of the compensator the pressure very particularly preferably essentially corresponds to the ambient pressure, ie about 1 bar. In order to introduce the conditioned liquid into the cartridge system, the beverage preparation machine includes a coupling element for selectively coupling between the liquid conditioning system and the liquid supply opening of the cartridge receptacle. The coupling element can consequently couple selectively to the cartridge system and for this purpose comprises at least one liquid line.

Finally, the beverage preparation machine includes a control device for controlling the beverage preparation machine, in particular at least some of the aforementioned components, such as the pump, the liquid conditioning system and/or the coupling element. The control device preferably initiates the beverage preparation and in particular also ends it, for example by stopping the supply of liquid.

According to the invention, it is now provided that the cartridge holder has at least one locking means, which is provided to reversibly lock the cartridge system in the cartridge holder, the locking means being reversibly transferrable from an unlocked position to a locked position, the locking means being in the locked position form - and/or positively interacts with the cartridge system. The locking means is consequently actuated and consequently locks the cartridge system in the cartridge holder. I.e. a user cannot remove the cartridge system from the beverage preparation machine without first transferring the locking means to the unlocked position. In this way, it is ensured in a particularly advantageous manner that no continuous drawing off of liquid can take place without a cartridge system being correctly inserted into the cartridge holder.

According to a preferred embodiment or a further object of the present invention, it is provided that the coupling element can be transferred from a retracted position to an extended position, wherein in the extended position there is a, in particular tight, fluid connection between the liquid supply opening of the cartridge holder and the liquid line of the coupling element . The coupling element is thus provided to be movable, in particular relative to the cartridge system used in the cartridge holder, with coupling to the cartridge system, in particular the cartridge receptacle, taking place in the extended position. This advantageously achieves the effect that Cartridge system can be used without damaging the liquid-carrying parts of the beverage preparation machine in the cartridge holder and then a reliable and safe coupling can be generated. In particular, it is possible in this way to ensure a liquid-tight coupling between the cartridge system and the beverage preparation machine.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the cartridge holder has a recess, in particular one that is arranged centrally, into which the cartridge system, in particular the cartridge receptacle, can be inserted at least partially. The cartridge holder is thus preferably designed essentially in the shape of a torus. The recess is particularly preferably designed to taper downwards, so that the cartridge system is held securely in the recess, but cannot slip out of the cartridge holder downwards. Very particularly preferably, the recess has an essentially circular cross section in a horizontal plane, in particular the same cross section as the cartridge receptacle. Essentially, this should mean that there can be deviations from the circular shape in certain areas. For example, the cartridge holder and/or the cartridge receptacle are preferably flat in the area provided for coupling to the coupling element. In this way, on the one hand, a simpler, tight coupling is made possible, since this is easier to achieve between flat surfaces, and on the other hand, correct orientation between the cartridge system, in particular the cartridge holder and the beverage preparation machine, is ensured, which in turn ensures a reliable, liquid-tight coupling between the cartridge holder and the coupling element .

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the locking means is designed to be rotatable about an axis, in particular a horizontally arranged axis. The locking means is particularly preferably an elongate element which can be rotated at one end, for example a lower end, about the axis, in particular the horizontal axis. This enables a particularly simple and reliable movement between the unlocked and the locked position, since the upper, movable end can cover a sufficiently large distance to securely lock the cartridge system inserted into the recess.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the cartridge holder has several, preferably at least three, locking means, which are particularly preferably around the circumference of the recess, in particular are evenly distributed. This advantageously ensures that a sufficiently secure locking of the cartridge system in the cartridge holder is ensured in any case. In particular, any incorrect positioning of the cartridge system can advantageously be compensated for by the locking means distributed along the circumference of the recess.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the at least one locking means is hook-shaped at least in sections, the hook-shaped section being intended to interact in a locking manner with a section of the cartridge system, in particular a flange of the cartridge. The cartridge and/or the cartridge holder therefore preferably has at least one laterally, in particular horizontally, protruding area behind which the locking means can engage. Since the recess is preferably provided in a tapering manner and the locking means according to this embodiment prevent upward movement, the cartridge system is advantageously securely secured in the cartridge holder despite the simple design of the locking means. The hook shape also enables the forces to be dissipated in a particularly advantageous manner, even if a user pulls upwards on the cartridge system with a certain force. The at least one locking means particularly preferably comprises at least one predetermined breaking point in order to avoid damage to the cartridge holder and/or the beverage preparation machine in the case explained above.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the at least one locking means is prestressed in the direction of the unlocked position, in particular by a spring. Such a spring bias is a particularly simple, proven and reliable way to ensure that the locking means is in the unlocked position so that a cartridge system can be easily inserted into the cartridge holder.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the beverage preparation machine, in particular the cartridge holder, has an operating element, in particular a hand lever, with the operating element being adjustable between a first position and a second position, with the locking means being in the first position of the operating element is in the unlocked position and in the second position of the control the locking means is in the locked position, wherein the control is configured such that upon adjustment from the first position to the second position the locking means from the unlocked position to the locked position is transferred. The hand lever preferably protrudes horizontally laterally from the cartridge holder. Provision is particularly preferably made for the operating element to be rotatable about a vertical axis, which runs in particular centrally through the recess of the cartridge holder, preferably in an angular range of 10 to 180 degrees, particularly preferably in an angular range of 40-120 degrees, very particularly preferably in an angular range of approximately 90 degrees. A user can thus advantageously effect the transfer of the locking means into the locked position or, after the beverage has been prepared, into the unlocked position. The person skilled in the art understands that the above-mentioned vertical axis coincides in particular with a longitudinal axis of the cartridge system when the cartridge system is properly inserted into the cartridge holder. The cartridge holder preferably includes an indicator element to show the user that the locked and/or unlocked position has been correctly reached. This can be a marking, for example, with the user having to bring the operating element into a flush position with the marking. Alternatively or additionally, the indicator element is provided to emit an acoustic and/or visual signal in order to indicate correct locking and/or unlocking. The configuration of the control element as a pivotable lever is a particularly simple variant that can be operated intuitively by the user. In particular, the different angular positions allow the user to immediately recognize whether the locking means is in the unlocked or locked position.

Alternatively, it is also conceivable that a user simply signals to the control device via an operating element, such as a physical and/or virtual button, that a cartridge system is inserted, and the transfer of the locking means into the locked position, in particular via a motorized drive, done automatically.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the operating element is connected, in particular in one piece, to a link guide, the link guide being designed to switch the locking means from the unlocked to the locked position during an adjustment, in particular a rotation about the vertical axis to transfer position. In this way, a particularly simple and reliable transfer, in particular of several locking means at the same time, can be achieved. In the event that the link guide is designed in one piece with the operating element, the complexity of the beverage preparation machine is also advantageously reduced, since there are fewer components. If several locking means are provided, the link guide preferably has several guides, in particular designed identically to one another, so that preferably all the locking means are moved at the same time.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the coupling element is pretensioned in the direction of the extended position, in particular by a spring. In this way, it is achieved in a particularly simple manner that the coupling element automatically assumes a coupling position, i.e. the extended position, unless a component of the beverage preparation machine explicitly prevents this. The force exerted by the spring also advantageously ensures a certain contact pressure between the liquid supply opening and the coupling element, so that the tightness of the connection is increased.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the operating element is connected, in particular in one piece, to a slotted guide, with the slotted guide being designed to move the coupling element from the extended position to the to transfer retracted position. The coupling element preferably has a guide means which is intended to functionally interact with the link guide. The guide means is particularly preferably a projection, which is in particular designed in one piece with the coupling element, the projection very particularly preferably resting with a contact surface on the link guide. The slotted guide interacting with the coupling element can be formed in one piece with the slotted guide interacting with the locking means or be manufactured separately and optionally connected to the slotted guide. The link guides are preferably different sections of a common link guide. In this particularly advantageous manner, the transfer of the locking means from the locked to the unlocked position is linked simultaneously with the transfer of the coupling element from the extended to the retracted position. After both movements have ended, the cartridge system can preferably be removed from the cartridge holder. The person skilled in the art understands that the movements of the coupling element and the locking means are effected differently. Since the locking means is preferably biased in the direction of the unlocked position, the slotted guide gives the locking means a path while the spring tension causes the movement of the locking means. In the case of the coupling element, this takes place in the reverse manner, in particular. The spring tension here preferably causes a pretension in the direction of the extended position, while the link guide actively moves the coupling element in the direction of the retracted position.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the beverage preparation machine comprises a compressed air source, wherein the compressed air source is set up to supply compressed air to the cartridge system, in particular to a compressed air supply opening of the cartridge receptacle, wherein the coupling element is also used for the selective coupling between the compressed air source and the compressed air supply opening of the Cartridge holder is set up, wherein the coupling element has a compressed air line. The compressed air is used to transfer the beverage substance from the cartridge's reservoir into the mixing chamber of the cartridge holder. For this purpose, the compressed air is introduced into the reservoir through a compressed air line, which on the one hand avoids the creation of a negative pressure and on the other hand the beverage substance is preferably actively expelled by the compressed air. This advantageously ensures that all of the beverage substance is transferred from the cartridge and advantageously shortens the beverage preparation time.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that in the extended position there is a, in particular tight, fluid connection between the compressed air supply opening of the cartridge holder and the compressed air line of the coupling element. In this case, this tight fluid connection is preferably established at the same time as the tight liquid connection between the liquid supply opening and the liquid line of the coupling element.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the coupling element has a sealant at least in an area provided for contacting the cartridge receptacle, the sealant comprising an at least partially elastic material, in particular an elastic plastic material. The sealant is particularly preferably provided as a coating. For example, the sealant is sprayed onto the coupling element or applied in an in-mold process. The sealant is very particularly preferably made from a material that is harmless in terms of food technology. In particular, the sealant contains silicone. Such a sealing means advantageously ensures that there is always a tight fluid-carrying connection when the coupling element is in the extended position with the cartridge system inserted. The expert understands that of course there is no sealant in the outlet area of the liquid line and/or the compressed air line, so that the liquid flow and/or the compressed air flow can pass unhindered from the coupling element into the cartridge receptacle.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the cartridge holder has at least one stop means, which preferably interacts with a link guide, in particular the previously explained link guide, in such a way that the first position and/or the second position are defined as end positions. The stopping means is particularly preferably an element which is firmly connected, in particular in one piece, to the cartridge holder and which interacts positively and/or non-positively with a guide in the link guide in the first and/or second position. The stopping means is very particularly preferably designed in the manner of a peg. This ensures that the cartridge holder is not damaged by moving the operating element and/or the link guide beyond the first and/or the second position.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the cartridge holder has a position detection means for detecting at least one position of the operating element and/or the link guide. The position detection means is particularly preferably a position switch or limit switch. The position detection means particularly preferably includes a light barrier and/or a proximity switch. In particular, the position detection means is arranged in such a way that it detects when the operating lever has reached the second position and/or when the locking means has reached the locked position. Alternatively or additionally, the position detection means or another position detection means is configured in such a way that it detects the extended position of the coupling means. This advantageously rules out that

According to a preferred embodiment it is provided that the liquid line and preferably the compressed air line of the coupling element are rigid lines and are in particular provided in one piece in the coupling element. Since the coupling element is preferably designed to be movable, at least one partially flexible line must be arranged between the liquid conditioning system and the coupling element and/or between the compressed air source and the coupling element in order to compensate for the movement. By providing rigid lines in the coupling element, however, reliable operation is ensured, since thus a constant orientation of the lines relative to the cartridge holder and therefore also to a cartridge system arranged therein is guaranteed. In addition, complex maintenance on the movable coupling element is ruled out.

According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the beverage preparation machine, in particular the control device, is configured in such a way that beverage preparation, in particular a supply of liquid and/or a supply of compressed air through the coupling element, is only possible when the operating element is in the second position and/or the locking means is in the locked position. The control device is particularly preferably functionally connected to the position detection means such that beverage preparation can only be initiated when the position detection means has detected that the locking means has reached the locked position and/or that the control element has reached the second position. This ensures that incorrect operation of the beverage preparation machine is ruled out.

A further object of the present invention is a beverage preparation system with a beverage preparation machine according to the invention and a cartridge system, wherein the cartridge system for beverage preparation can be inserted into the cartridge holder of the beverage preparation machine, the cartridge system comprising a cartridge containing a reservoir filled with a beverage substance and one with the cartridge comprises a cartridge receptacle that can be connected in a connection area, the cartridge having a cartridge opening, the cartridge opening being closed with a sealing element, in particular a sealing film, with the sealing element sealing off the reservoir in a fluid-tight manner from the cartridge receptacle, the cartridge receptacle having a mixing chamber that can be connected to the reservoir and has a liquid supply opening opening into the mixing chamber for coupling to the liquid line of the coupling element, so that a liquid can be introduced into the mixing chamber, the cartridge holder having a

Has a cartridge discharge device for transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir into the mixing chamber, the cartridge receptacle having a beverage outlet for discharging a beverage produced by mixing the liquid with the beverage substance from the mixing chamber.

The statements relating to this subject of the present invention also apply equally to the other subjects of the present invention and vice versa. The beverage preparation system according to the invention is particularly flexible and hygienic, since there is no recontamination of parts of the beverage preparation machine and liquid withdrawal after premature removal of the cartridge system is excluded, since the locking means holds the cartridge system securely in the cartridge holder and preferably the control device allows liquid withdrawal in the unlocked position of the Prevents locking means.

With regard to the configuration of the cartridge holder and the cartridge, reference is made to the application, reference is made to the disclosure content of which, in particular with regard to possible configurations of the cartridge holder, the relevant disclosure content being incorporated into the present disclosure.

The cartridge and/or the cartridge holder is preferably made of plastic, in particular by an (in)molding and/or a blow molding process. The cartridge has a side wall that has, for example, a round, rectangular, square, conical or oval cross-section. A base is generally provided at one end of the side wall, in particular in one piece. The side wall and the base area span a cavity which forms the reservoir in which a beverage substance, in particular in liquid form, is provided. A connection area is provided at the other end of the wall area, with which the cartridge is connected to the cartridge receptacle.

Alternatively, it is also conceivable that the cartridge is at least partially made of glass. In this case, an intermediate piece is preferably provided between the cartridge holder and the cartridge. Such an intermediate piece acts in particular as an adapter. Thus, conventional, commercially available bottles (made of glass or other materials) can also be used in the cartridge system. With regard to such an intermediate piece and in particular a cartridge that can be used with such an intermediate piece, reference is made to the applicant's application DE102020213332.8, to whose disclosure content, in particular with regard to such an intermediate piece, reference is made, the relevant disclosure content being incorporated into the present disclosure.

The cartridge preferably comprises a cartridge neck which has at least one flange, in particular at least two flanges spaced apart from one another. The at least one flange particularly preferably protrudes from the connection area and is at an angle, particularly preferably at a right angle, from a Wall area of the connection area. In particular, when the cartridge system is properly seated in the cartridge holder, the flange is aligned horizontally. The flange is preferably made of solid material, ie not made hollow. In particular, the flange is injection molded and/or manufactured in one piece with the cartridge, in particular the side wall of the cartridge and/or the cartridge neck. Due to the fact that it is essentially the cartridge receptacle that establishes the connection to the cartridge holder, the cartridge can be designed to be flexible. For example, the cartridge can have different diameters and/or different axial lengths in order to accommodate different volumes of beverage substance. The beverage substance is preferably in liquid form, particularly as a syrup and/or a beverage concentrate. However, it is also conceivable that the cartridge holder at least partially includes support means for the cartridges, for example in the form of a stand-up collar.

The cartridge holder can be permanently connected to the cartridge or it can be a replacement part that is removed from the cartridge after use and connected to a new cartridge. The cartridge holder is particularly preferably connected to the cartridge in a positive and/or non-positive manner, in particular clipped. The flange on the cartridge preferably interacts with the cartridge receptacle in a sealing manner. For this purpose, the circumference of the flange can engage, for example, in a groove in the cartridge holder. This flange/groove connection can also serve as a force fit to prevent the cartridge from being displaced relative to the cartridge receptacle during the beverage or food production and the connection between the cartridge and cartridge receptacle from becoming leaky.

As previously explained, it is preferred if the locking means interacts in a locking manner with the at least one flange. Alternatively or additionally, a fastening means is provided in the side wall area of the cartridge and/or in the area of the cartridge neck. In this case, the at least one locking means interacts in a locking manner with the fastening means as an alternative or in addition to the flange. The fastening means can be a groove, for example, into which the locking means engages.

The cartridge has a cartridge opening, with the cartridge opening being closed with a sealing element, in particular a sealing foil, with the sealing element sealing off the reservoir in a fluid-tight manner with respect to the cartridge receptacle. The sealing element is preferably attached to the at least one flange, in particular sealed to it. The sealing film particularly preferably comprises a single-layer or multi-layer membrane. It is crucial that the sealing element on the one hand liquid-tightly seals the reservoir closes, so that even in the preferred arrangement according to the invention, in which the cartridge system is inserted into the cartridge holder with the cartridge opening downwards, the beverage substance cannot leave the reservoir when the sealing element is closed. On the other hand, the sealing element must be able to be opened in a targeted, local and simple manner by the cartridge discharge device, so that the beverage substance can be transferred quickly and completely into the mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the beverage preparation machine has an identifier detector for reading out a product identification identifier on the cartridge and/or the cartridge holder, with the identifier detector preferably being arranged above and/or behind the cartridge holder, in particular in the housing of the beverage preparation machine is. A pane that is transparent at least for the radiation used and in particular also in the optical range is preferably arranged in front of the identification detector. The product identifier is preferably embedded in a barcode, an RFID code, a QR code, a data matrix code, a color code, a hologram code or the like. An automatic reading out of the product identifier is thus advantageously possible. The identifier detector includes in particular an optical sensor, such as a CCD camera, which automatically reads the barcode or QR code or data matrix code when the cartridge system in the

Beverage preparation machine is used. Alternatively, the identifier detector includes a transmitting and receiving antenna for automatically reading out the RFID codes. Alternatively, it would be conceivable for the product identifier to be embedded in other automatically readable computer chips. In the context of the present invention, the term QR code includes in particular any data matrix code. In this respect, the terms QR code and data matrix code are used synonymously. Alternatively or additionally, it would also be conceivable for the product identifier to include a bar code, a dot code, a binary code, a Morse code, a Braille character code (Braille) or the like. The code can also be embedded in a three-dimensional structure, such as a relief. The product identification includes in particular the so-called product identification number, in particular a Universal Product Code (UPC), a European Article Number (EAN), a GS1 code, a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) or the like. In this way, no new code system needs to be introduced for this. In particular, the product identifier runs under the GS1 standard. The product identifier is preferably printed directly on the cartridge and / or the cartridge holder, glued and / or in the surface of Inserted into the cartridge, e.g. by (laser) engraving, punching or directly during the manufacture of the cartridge. Alternatively, it would also be conceivable for the cartridge to be at least partially encased in a cover, for example a sleeve, on which the product identifier is arranged. The cover can also be glued or welded to the cartridge and/or the cartridge holder. The cover or sleeve could be made from a plastic film, fabric or paper.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the cartridge discharge device comprises a spike guide and a puncturing spike that is mounted displaceably within the spike guide, in particular in one direction, with the puncturing spike between a retracted position, in which the puncturing spike is at a distance from the sealing element, and an extended position, in which the piercing spike pierces the sealing element and protrudes into the reservoir, can be displaced by an actuator element of the beverage preparation machine. A cartridge discharge device designed in this way is particularly advantageous since the piercing spike enables a targeted and simple opening of the sealing element and thus an exactly controllable transfer of the beverage substance from the reservoir into the mixing chamber.

According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the beverage preparation machine includes a drive, in particular a motorized drive, for the actuator element. The drive is particularly preferably coupled to the operating element, in particular the hand lever. The drive is particularly preferably arranged in the housing of the beverage preparation machine and functionally connected to the actuator element via a deflection mechanism. The actuator element of the beverage preparation machine can preferably be controlled by the control device. More details are in the application with the title

"Beverage preparation machine with a drive and beverage preparation system" by the applicant from the same application date, reference is made to the content of the disclosure, in particular with regard to possible embodiments of the actuator element and/or drive, with the relevant disclosure content being incorporated into the present disclosure.

According to a preferred embodiment it is provided that the cartridge holder, in particular the cartridge discharge device, comprises a compressed air supply opening for coupling to the compressed air line of the coupling element, a compressed air outlet and a compressed air line which extends from the compressed air supply opening to the compressed air outlet, wherein the coupling element is configured to introduce compressed air from the compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine through the compressed air supply opening into the compressed air line, wherein the compressed air line is preferably integrated into the puncturing pin, wherein the cartridge discharge device is particularly preferably configured in such a way that in the extended position of the puncturing pin the beverage substance can be transferred from the reservoir into the mixing chamber by means of the compressed air. The person skilled in the art understands that this embodiment is preferably implemented together with the embodiment according to which the beverage preparation machine comprises a compressed air source. In this case, the compressed air source makes the compressed air available, which—particularly only when the piercer is in the extended position—is introduced into the reservoir through the compressed air line of the piercer and via the compressed air outlet, thereby supporting the transfer of the beverage substance from the reservoir into the mixing chamber . If the cartridge system is properly arranged in the cartridge holder and in particular locked via at least one locking means, the compressed air supply opening of the cartridge holder can be brought into fluid connection with a compressed air line of the beverage preparation machine. The beverage preparation machine is preferably configured in such a way that compressed air is provided, in particular immediately after a fluid-tight connection has been established between the compressed air supply opening of the cartridge holder and the compressed air line of the coupling element. Since the compressed air line is thus under pressure, in particular immediately after a connection has been made, it is advantageously ruled out that beverage substance can enter the beverage preparation machine through the compressed air line, thereby preventing cross-contamination and further improving the hygiene of the beverage preparation machine.

The piercing spike preferably has at least one, preferably several, indentations and/or bulges, in particular channels, on its outer circumference, which serve as a drain for the beverage substance. The number and size of the indentations and/or bulges preferably depends on the viscosity of the beverage substance. The outer wall of the piercing spike is thus preferably provided with at least one side channel for directing the beverage substance towards the mixing chamber in the extended position when the sealing element is pierced. The substrate can then flow past the sealing element in the direction of the mixing chamber through the side channel formed laterally on the piercing spike and in particular extending substantially vertically. The at least one side channel is designed in particular in the form of a groove open on one side. It is conceivable that in particular the cross section of the Side channel is adapted to the viscosity of the beverage substance, so that the at least one side channel controls or limits the flow of the beverage substance in the direction of the mixing chamber. In the case of a high viscosity, several side channels and/or side channels with a larger cross section are used, while in the case of a lower viscosity fewer side channels or side channels with a smaller cross section are provided. For each cartridge or beverage substance there is preferably a suitable cartridge receptacle, in particular a suitable cartridge discharge device.

Yet another subject matter of the present invention is a method for preparing a beverage with a beverage preparation system according to the invention, characterized by the following steps:

- Insertion of a cartridge system consisting of a cartridge and a cartridge holder into the cartridge holder,

- Transferring the locking means from the unlocked position to the locked position

- Transferring the coupling element from the retracted position to the extended position to establish a connection between the liquid line of the coupling element and the fluid supply opening of the cartridge holder and preferably to establish a connection between the compressed air line of the coupling element and the compressed air supply opening of the cartridge holder,

- transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir of the cartridge into the mixing chamber of the cartridge holder, in particular by feeding compressed air into the reservoir,

- Introducing a liquid into the mixing chamber of the cartridge holder through the coupling element,

- Discharging the beverage produced in the mixing chamber by mixing the beverage substance with the liquid through the beverage outlet.

The method according to the invention offers the same advantages as the beverage preparation machine according to the invention and the beverage preparation system according to the invention, i.e. in particular simple, hygienic and reliable beverage preparation in which operating errors and/or contamination due to liquid escaping unintentionally are excluded. In particular, the steps of transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir of the cartridge into the mixing chamber of the cartridge holder and introducing a liquid into the mixing chamber of the cartridge holder occur substantially simultaneously. Alternatively, the chronological sequence of the steps can be controlled by the control device, in particular taking into account product information read out by the identifier detector. Thus, for example, the point in time, the speed, the degree of carbonization and/or the temperature of the liquid introduced can be controlled as a function of the beverage substance, in particular its viscosity. This is particularly advantageous in the case of highly viscous beverage substances, for example a syrup.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the step of transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir of the cartridge into the mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle includes actuating the cartridge discharge device, in particular by transferring the piercing spike from the retracted position to the extended position, thereby perforating of the sealing element is effected.

For this purpose, an actuator element of the beverage preparation machine is particularly preferably activated, which moves the piercing spike into the extended position. The actuator element is particularly preferably activated by a drive, which is in particular controlled and/or motorized by the control device. Alternatively or additionally, the actuator element is connected directly or indirectly to the operating element, for example via a release mechanism. For example, it is possible for a user to actuate and/or release the actuator element by moving the hand lever into the second position, so that the control device issues the command by actuating another operating element, for example a pushbutton switch, a physical and/or virtual button for activating or actuating the actuator element. This further simplifies the beverage preparation process.

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that the step of transferring the locking means from the unlocked position to the locked position includes transferring the operating element from the first position to the second position and/or wherein the step of transferring the coupling element from the retracted position in the extended position includes a transfer of the operating element from the first position to the second position. Advantageously, the user can lock the cartridge system in the cartridge holder in a simple and comprehensible manner or, in particular, unlock it again after the beverage has been prepared. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the liquid is tempered, in particular cooled, and/or carbonized by the liquid conditioning system before it is introduced into the mixing chamber.

According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is provided that before, during or after the insertion of the cartridge system into the cartridge holder and/or the feeding of compressed air into the cartridge and/or the introduction of the liquid into the mixing chamber, a product identification identifier from the identifier detector is read. The product identifier read out is preferably evaluated by the control device, with the compressed air and/or the liquid being fed in particularly preferably only if the product identifier can be verified by the control device. This ensures that the beverage preparation machine can only be put into operation with cartridge systems that are known or certified and/or compatible for the beverage preparation machine, so that the beverage preparation machine is not damaged or the user is injured due to the inadvertent use of the wrong cartridge system, which, for example, affects the pressure cannot withstand, avoided.

It is also conceivable that the properties of the liquid and in particular the time profile of the volume flow, the total volume, the pressure, the delivery pauses, the temperature and/or the degree of carbonization of the liquid fed in are controlled as a function of the (verified) product identifier. Alternatively or additionally, the properties of the compressed air fed in and in particular the time profile of the volume flow, the total volume, the conveying pauses and/or the pressure of the compressed air fed in are controlled as a function of the (verified) product identifier. The ratio between the volume flow of the liquid and the volume flow of the compressed air is also very particularly preferably controlled as a function of the (verified) product identifier. In particular, all parameters and/or variables of the beverage production process that can be set by the beverage preparation machine are embedded in the product identifier, so that the beverage preparation machine receives all information from the cartridge system that is necessary or at least helpful or recommended for the production of the respective beverage. It is also conceivable that this information is stored in an internal memory of the beverage preparation machine and retrieved using the product identifier for the respective cartridge system and for Control of the subsequent beverage production process are used as soon as the presence of this cartridge system is detected in the cartridge holder.

character description

The invention is explained below with reference to FIGS. These explanations are only exemplary and do not limit the general idea of the invention. The explanations apply to the invention

Beverage preparation machine, the beverage preparation system according to the invention and the method according to the invention alike.

FIG. 1 shows a beverage preparation machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective detailed view of a beverage preparation machine according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 3-5 show schematic sectional views of successive steps of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective detailed view of a cartridge holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic plan view of a cartridge holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 shows a schematic plan view of a cartridge holder with an operating element in the first position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic plan view of a cartridge holder with an operating element in the first position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 shows a schematic top view of a cartridge holder with an operating element in the second position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic top view of a cartridge holder with an operating element in the second position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective detailed view of a cartridge holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows a schematic plan view of a cartridge holder according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 shows a beverage preparation machine 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. 1 shows in particular a possible appearance of the beverage preparation machine 1. Of course, other shapes are also possible. The beverage preparation machine 1 comprises a housing 2 in which most of the functional components, such as a liquid conditioning system, a coupling element 21, a power connection, a control device implemented, for example, on a printed circuit board, and the like are arranged. The beverage preparation machine 1 includes a power connection (not shown here) to an external power supply network and/or an internal energy storage device, for example an accumulator that is sufficiently dimensioned for several beverage preparation processes.

Furthermore, the beverage preparation machine 1 here includes a liquid reservoir 3 which, as illustrated, is preferably designed as a water tank. The liquid reservoir 3 can be arranged on the outside, as shown, and connected to the housing 2 only via a bottom area. However, it is also possible for the liquid reservoir 3 to be arranged entirely or partially within the housing 2 . For example, the liquid reservoir 3 can be removed from the housing 2 for filling and/or can be filled via a cover access in the housing. Such a liquid reservoir 3 can additionally include means for liquid treatment. In the simplest case, such a means consists of a filter element, in particular for adjusting the lime content of the liquid. Additional, optional controls 6 are arranged in the upper area of the housing 2 here. These are designed, for example, as pushbutton switches, but can take any form, such as a touchscreen with virtual keys, physical buttons, virtual or physical rotary switches, etc. A user can use these additional operating elements 6, for example, to start or initiate beverage preparation and preferably also abort. Furthermore, for example, operating elements 6 can be provided for selecting a liquid volume and/or a degree of carbonization.

A cartridge holder 4 is arranged projecting laterally from the housing 2 .

This cartridge holder 4 is the central point of beverage preparation. A cartridge system consisting of a cartridge 10 and a cartridge receptacle 14 connected to the cartridge can be arranged in the cartridge holder 4, which has a central recess for this purpose. The recess is preferably provided tapering downwards, so that a cartridge system can be replaced from above into the cartridge holder 4, but cannot slip out of it downwards. In the present case, the cartridge holder 4 is designed approximately in the shape of a circular ring, but the only decisive factor is a recess that fits the cartridge receptacle 14, but the outer shape of the cartridge holder 4 and its dimensions can essentially be freely selected. However, the balcony-like shape shown here is preferred in principle, since the resulting filigree and free-floating impression is particularly aesthetically pleasing. The recess preferably interacts with the cartridge receptacle 14 in a form-fitting manner, at least in sections. This form fit is particularly preferably further supported by the fact that the cartridge holder 4 has an opening for a beverage outlet 15 of the cartridge holder 14 at its lower end, so that the cartridge holder 14 can only be correctly replaced in the cartridge holder 4 in one orientation such that the cartridge system in the cartridge holder 4 can be locked.

A storage area 7 is provided in particular in a vertical line below the cartridge holder, which here comprises a storage grid and preferably a liquid collection device. A container, for example a drinking vessel such as a mug, a cup or a glass, can be placed on the storage grid to prepare a drink. If the user positions the drinking vessel too late in the storage area or aligns it incorrectly, or if dripping occurs, the drink and/or liquid can get through the storage grid into the liquid collection device arranged underneath and can then be removed. The cartridge holder 4 is provided here at about 60% of the total height of the beverage preparation machine 1 . However, the cartridge holder 4 can also be higher, for example at a height between 60% and 100%, preferably between 70% and 90% and in particular at about 80% of the total height, or lower, for example at a height between 20% and 60% between 30% and 50% and in particular at about 40% of the overall height of the beverage preparation machine. The cartridge holder 4 is particularly preferably provided so that it can be adjusted in height. In this way, the cartridge holder 4 can be adjusted to the height of the respective drinking vessel, so that the beverage does not fall into the drinking vessel from too great a height. In this way, splashing of the drink can be prevented.

According to the preferred embodiment shown here, an operating element in the form of a hand lever 5 is provided on the cartridge holder. A user can pivot the hand lever 5 about a vertical axis running centrally through the recess between a first position and a second position. As will be explained in more detail below, this serves to lock the cartridge system in the cartridge holder 4 so that the cartridge system cannot be removed from the cartridge holder 4 .

The cartridge holder 4 and in particular the hand lever 5 is preferably coupled to the control device of the beverage preparation machine 1 in such a way that it is not possible to start the beverage preparation when the hand lever 5 is in the first position, which corresponds to an unlocked position.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective detailed view of a beverage preparation machine 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated embodiment is similar to the embodiment discussed in connection with FIG. 1, so that in principle reference is made to the relevant explanations.

Only a section of the beverage preparation machine 1 can now be seen here. The liquid reservoir 3 can be seen on the left, in which a filter cartridge can be seen by way of example. Furthermore, additional control elements 6 are indicated at the upper edge of the housing 2 . The focus here is on the cartridge holder 4 and the hand lever 5. The hand lever 5 is here formed in one piece with a peripheral collar of the cartridge holder 4 and is present, for example, of the one shown first position on the left by approx. 90° to the right and can be pivoted into a second position. The first position corresponds to an open position in which a user can insert a cartridge system consisting of a cartridge 10 and a cartridge receptacle 14 connected thereto. The second position corresponds to a locked position in which the cartridge system is locked in the cartridge holder 4 so that it can no longer be removed from the cartridge holder 4 (non-destructively). The way in which this locking is achieved will be explained in more detail below and in particular with reference to Figures 6-11.

The aforementioned angular range of approximately 90°, in which the hand lever 5 can be pivoted, is an example. An angular range of 60°, 120° or 180° is also conceivable. However, an angular range of about 90°, in particular between 60° and 120°, is particularly advantageous, since in this case the position of the hand lever 5 can be easily and directly recognized by the user, so that the user can advantageously see at a glance whether a locked or an unlocked position is present. This can be reinforced by appropriate markings and/or infographics or symbols on the cartridge holder 4. For example, an unlocked lock is shown on the outside of the cartridge holder 4 in the area of the first position and a locked lock is shown in the second position. This signals to the user in a known manner on the one hand which position is currently present and on the other hand up to which position the hand lever can be pivoted and/or must be pivoted.

An outlet can be seen on the underside of the cartridge holder 4 in the front area. This is an optional additional dedicated liquid outlet 9, via which liquid, in particular temperature-controlled and/or carbonated liquid, can be dispensed separately and/or in addition to the drink. More details on this are given in the applicant's parallel application entitled "Beverage preparation machine with a liquid outlet and beverage preparation system" from the same filing date, with express reference being made to the relevant disclosure content with regard to the design of the liquid outlet 9, and this in the disclosure content of the present registration is recorded.

An actuator element 20 is also indicated. This is preferably designed as a rocker arm and, as shown, is largely within the housing of the cartridge holder 4 and the beverage preparation machine 1. One end of this Actuator element 20, which actuates a cartridge discharge device of cartridge holder 14 when activated, can be seen here.

In the figures 3 to 5 are shown schematic sectional views of successive steps of a method according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Only a section of the beverage preparation machine 1 with the cartridge holder 4 is shown. The beverage preparation machine 1 can be designed in accordance with the embodiments explained in connection with the previous figures, for which reason reference is made to the relevant explanations. In addition, the beverage preparation system and its components are explained in detail below with reference to FIG.

In contrast to the previously discussed embodiments, an optional identifier detector 25 is additionally provided here. This is arranged, for example, behind a pane that is transparent to the radiation used in the housing 2 of the beverage preparation machine 1 and is aligned in such a way that it can read out a product identifier arranged on the outside of the cartridge 10 and/or the cartridge holder 14 . In principle, any type of detector can be used, but an optical sensor and/or an RFID sensor is preferred. Additionally or alternatively, the control device and/or the identifier detector 25 can comprise a communication module for communication with an external resource, such as a remote server. In addition to or as an alternative to the product identifier, further and/or supplementary information relating to the beverage substance and/or preparation parameters can be called up there. The control device particularly preferably controls the parameters of the beverage preparation using the product identification code determined by the code detector 25 . Such parameters include, for example, parameters relating to the liquid, such as temperature, degree of carbonization, volume and/or speed of the liquid flow, parameters relating to the compressed air, such as pressure, volume and/or speed of the compressed air, or dynamic parameters, such as the point in time of liquid - and / or compressed air supply or courses of the aforementioned parameters. For example, a beverage preparation cycle can include pauses in the liquid and/or compressed air supply and/or different pressures and/or volumes over time.

In the cross section, the dedicated liquid outlet 9 can be clearly seen, which is led around the recess essentially in the shape of a semi-torus. In addition, it is indicated that the actuator element 20, which is also designed according to the embodiment shown here as a rocker arm, tiltable about a horizontal axis, can be connected to a drive in the beverage preparation machine 1, in particular a motorized drive, which can preferably be controlled by the control device.

The beverage preparation machine 1 also includes components that are not shown here for the sake of clarity. The beverage preparation machine 1 thus comprises a liquid conditioning system. This is arranged downstream of the liquid reservoir 3 and upstream of the cartridge holder 4 . Such a liquid conditioning system is intended to condition the liquid before it is fed into the cartridge system, in particular to temper it and/or to carbonize it.

The liquid conditioning system includes, for example, among other things, at least one (hydraulic) pump for transporting the liquid. In principle, it is also possible to use a plurality of pumps, for example connected in parallel, if the pump capacity required cannot be easily achieved with one pump. A flow meter is preferably assigned to the at least one pump. The flow meter provides the controller with the readings it needs to control the pump. The pump preferably pumps the liquid to a temperature control device. In the present case, this is a compression refrigeration machine, for example, which cools the liquid, in particular as the water, to a drinking temperature that is perceived as pleasant, for example about 3-8°C. In a known manner, such a compression refrigerating machine comprises at least one heat exchanger, a compressor, a condenser and a throttle, in particular a capillary tube and/or an expansion valve. The heat exchanger is preferably designed as an in-line heat exchanger, i.e. the liquid is cooled as it flows through the liquid line. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine 1 can also include a container in which the water is tempered.

In addition, the beverage preparation machine 1 in the present case includes a carbonation system, which preferably includes, among other things, a carbon dioxide source, in particular in the form of commercially available cylinders made of metal. These are interchangeably used in the beverage preparation machine 1 and connected. Because such cylinders are under high pressure, the carbonation system includes a pressure reduction device downstream of the carbon dioxide source and downstream a dosing device. The dosing device is preferably provided so that it can be controlled by the control device and/or by a user and is used to set the desired degree of carbonation for the liquid.

Furthermore, the carbonation system preferably comprises a mixing device downstream of the dosing device, which is designed in particular as an inline mixing device, i.e. the carbonation of the liquid takes place while it flows through the liquid line and in particular not in a stationary state. Preferably, the mixing device is arranged downstream of the liquid temperature control system, so that already temperature-controlled, in particular cooled, liquid is carbonized in the mixing device.

Here, the beverage preparation machine 1 also includes a compressed air source. In its simplest form, this can consist in ambient air being sucked in from outside the beverage preparation machine 1, which is then pressurized by a suitable pump. In this case, the (air) pump can also be regarded as part of the compressed air source. Alternatively or additionally, the beverage preparation machine 1 includes a connection to an external compressed air supply network, which makes compressed air available to the beverage preparation machine 1 . Compressed air is supplied to the cartridge system from the compressed air source via the coupling element 21 .

The beverage preparation machine 1 preferably also comprises, in particular downstream of the mixing device and upstream of the coupling element 21, at least one compensator for reducing the pressure of the carbonated liquid and particularly preferably at least one valve. Such a valve is preferred in particular in connection with the additional liquid outlet 9 . In this way, a reliable and controlled discharge of the liquid is achieved in an advantageous manner, so that the carbonated liquid in particular does not splash when it emerges. In particular, a predetermined pressure of the liquid can be set by means of the compensator. The compensator is preferably provided in a controllable manner for this purpose. The compensator is particularly preferably adjusted at the factory, ie during manufacture of the beverage preparation machine, alternatively or additionally the compensator can be adjusted by a user and/or the control device. For example, such a compensator comprises a substantially conically shaped line section in which a longitudinally displaceable conical insert is arranged. Through pretense the conical insert changes the gap between the insert and the line, which changes the pressure accordingly. Such a compensator is an inline compensator. The pressure upstream of the compensator is preferably 6-14 bar, particularly preferably 8-12 bar, in particular 10 bar, and downstream of the compensator the pressure very particularly preferably essentially corresponds to the ambient pressure, ie about 1 bar. With regard to more detailed explanations of the compensator and/or the valve, reference is made to the applicant's parallel application entitled "Beverage preparation machine with a liquid outlet and beverage preparation system" from the same filing date, the disclosure content of which regarding the compensator and a possible valve is hereby referred to and its Disclosure content is incorporated into the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows the state shortly after the cartridge system has been inserted into the cartridge holder 4. The cartridge system consists of a cartridge 10, which comprises a side wall and a base area, which together define a cavity which serves as a reservoir 11 for a particularly liquid Beverage substance is used. The side wall can essentially have any desired cross section. However, a square or a (circular) round cross section is preferred. The cartridge 10 further includes a cartridge neck that encloses a cartridge opening. The cartridge opening is sealed airtight and/or liquid-tight by a sealing element 13, preferably a sealing foil, for example a single-layer or multi-layer membrane made of a plastic material and/or a metallic material such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The beverage substance is thus enclosed in the reservoir up to an opening of the sealing element 13. The cartridge 10 is preferably made of a plastics material, for example by injection molding or by a blow molding technique. The same applies particularly preferably to the cartridge holder 14.

The cartridge neck preferably has a smaller diameter than the side wall, ie represents a constriction. It is also preferred if the cartridge neck and/or the cartridge opening comprises at least one flange 12, particularly preferably two flanges spaced vertically apart from one another. In particular, it is provided that the sealing element 13 is connected to at least one flange 12, in particular in a materially bonded manner. For example, the sealing element 13 can be sealed to a flange 12 surrounding the cartridge opening. In the area of the cartridge neck, a connection area is provided, via which the cartridge 10 is positively, non-positively and/or materially connected and in particular non-rotatably connected to a cartridge receptacle 14, which is in particular essentially designed in the shape of a cap.

The cartridge receptacle 14 is preferably clipped to the at least one circumferential flange 12, for example. In the present case, purely by way of example, an embodiment is shown according to which the cartridge 10 has two flanges 12 which are essentially identical but are vertically spaced apart from one another. The cartridge holder 14 is connected in particular to the lower flange 12 in the drawing in a non-positive and/or positive manner. The second flange 12 interacts in a locking manner with a locking means 8 in a manner yet to be explained.

The cartridge receptacle 14 has a mixing chamber and at least one liquid supply opening 19, with liquid supplied via the liquid supply opening 19 through the beverage preparation machine 1, in particular carbonated and/or cooled, mixing in the mixing chamber with the beverage substance from the reservoir 11. The mixing results in a (mixed or mixed) drink, which is then dispensed directly through a drink outlet 15 of the cartridge holder 14 into a drinking vessel arranged underneath. As a result, the beverage does not come into contact with any components of the beverage preparation machine 1, as a result of which any cross-contamination is avoided in a particularly hygienic manner. Optionally, the cartridge holder 14 additionally has a dedicated gas outlet in order to discharge gas released from the cartridge holder 14 during the mixing. This is described in more detail in the applicant's application DE 102021200070.3, to the disclosure of which reference is expressly made with regard to the design of the cartridge holder 14 and in particular of the gas outlet and the disclosure of which is included in the disclosure of the present application.

The cartridge receptacle 14 also has at least one cartridge discharge device. In the present example, this is designed as a puncturing spike 16 mounted so as to be displaceable in a spike guide in the vertical direction. The piercing spike 16 is preferably designed as a plastic part and particularly preferably as a plastic injection molded part. The piercing spike 16 can be transferred from a retracted position into an extended position by an actuator element 20 of the beverage preparation machine 1 . In the extended position, it pierces the sealing element 13 and thus ensures a fluidic connection between the reservoir 11 and the mixing chamber. the Beverage preparation machine 1 and in particular the control device thus determines the point in time at which the beverage is prepared, since on the one hand it causes the liquid to be supplied into the mixing chamber and on the other hand it activates the actuator element which actuates the cartridge discharge device and thus ensures that the beverage substance is transferred from the reservoir 11 into the mixing chamber.

In order to support the transfer of the beverage substance, the piercing spike 16 has an internal compressed air line 17 . The cartridge holder 14 has a compressed air supply opening 18 below the liquid supply opening 19 . If the cartridge holder 14 is correctly arranged in the cartridge holder 4, the cartridge holder 14 is coupled to the beverage preparation machine 1 in such a way that it can introduce liquid through the liquid supply opening 19 into the mixing chamber and can provide compressed air at the compressed air supply opening 18. In particular, only in the extended position of the puncturing pin 16 does the compressed air line 17 align directly or indirectly, for example via a compressed air line provided in the cartridge receptacle 14, with the compressed air supply opening 18. At the end of the puncturing pin 16 protruding in the direction of the cartridge 10, the latter has a compressed air outlet , which protrudes in particular into the reservoir 11 in the extended position.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the piercing spike 16 has indentations, in particular channel-like indentations, on its outside, which extend essentially vertically according to the orientation shown here. The beverage substance can flow from the reservoir 11 into the mixing chamber via these indentations as soon as the sealing element 13 has been pierced. For example, the channel-like depressions are designed in the form of grooves open on one side, the cross section and/or the number of depressions preferably being adapted to the viscosity of the beverage substance.

So that liquid and compressed air can be fed safely and reliably to the cartridge holder 14, the beverage preparation machine 1 according to the invention comprises a coupling element 21 which can be moved from a retracted position, which is shown here, into an extended position (see FIG. 4). In the extended position, the coupling element 21 creates a fluid-tight coupling between the liquid conditioning system of the beverage preparation machine 1 and the liquid supply opening 19 of the cartridge holder 14 . Because the coupling element 21 is spaced apart from the cartridge receptacle 14 in the retracted position, it is ensured that the coupling element 21 when inserting the cartridge system is not damaged. In addition, a fluid-tight coupling is ensured by the transfer to the extended position.

The coupling element 21 preferably has a sealing means 24, which is formed here, for example, as an elastic material, for example a material containing silicone, in the area of the tip of the coupling element 21, in particular at least in the area in which there is contact with the cartridge receptacle 14. As a result, the fluid tightness between the coupling element 21 and the cartridge holder 14 is further improved in an advantageous manner.

According to the preferred embodiment shown here, the coupling element 21 is a rigid element which internally has a liquid line 22 , in particular a one-piece design, and a compressed air line 23 , in particular a one-piece design. In the present case, these lines are arranged at an angle to one another, with the compressed air line 23 running essentially horizontally. In principle, it is preferred if the liquid line 22 slopes slightly in the flow direction, since this facilitates the complete drainage of the liquid and thus advantageously prevents the beverage preparation machine 1 from dripping. The person skilled in the art understands immediately that this is not necessary for the compressed air line 23 . Nevertheless, the exact arrangement of the liquid line 22 and/or the compressed air line 23 depends primarily on the arrangement of the fluid-carrying components in the beverage preparation machine 1 . Furthermore, the person skilled in the art understands that, for example, between a compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine 1 and the compressed air line 23 of the coupling element 21 and/or between the liquid conditioning system and the liquid line 22 of the coupling element 21, a line that is flexible at least in sections is provided in order to facilitate the movement of the coupling element 21 between the retracted Position and the extended position to balance.

As already explained, in FIG. 3 the cartridge system is inserted in the correct orientation in the cartridge holder 4, but not yet locked. The piercing spike 16 is still in the retracted position, as is the coupling element 21.

In Figure 4, a user has now pivoted the hand lever 5, which is designed here in one piece with an element surrounding the cartridge holder 4 in a flange-like manner, from the first position about the vertical axis of rotation running parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cartridge into the second position, for example by about 90° . through an im Linkage guide 27, explained in more detail below in connection with FIGS. or lock it positively in the cartridge holder 4. The three locking means 8 are preferably of identical design and are arranged uniformly along the circumference of the recess. The upper end of the locking means 8 is hook-like, in particular rounded. At least one locking means 8 is provided according to the invention, but a higher number, such as three here, improves the locking, so that greater forces can also be absorbed. This prevents the user from removing the cartridge system from the cartridge holder while the beverage is being prepared, ie when the locking means 8 is in the locked position. The locking means 8 particularly preferably have at least one predetermined breaking point, so that although the cartridge system is prevented from being removed prematurely by accident, it can be removed by force in order to avoid damage to the beverage preparation machine 1 . The slotted guide makes it possible in a simple manner for all the locking means 8 to be actuated simultaneously.

At its lower end, the locking means 8 are preferably biased outwards by means of a spring 28, ie in the direction of the unlocked position. This means that as soon as the user moves the hand lever 5 back in the direction of the first position, the locking means 8 slide back into the unlocked position by the spring 28 along the link guide 27 .

Furthermore, it is preferred if the coupling element 21 is also prestressed into the extended position by means of a spring 28', with the coupling element 21 being supported by a further link guide 27', which is particularly preferably not identical to the link guide 27 assigned to the locking means 8, however in particular is made in one piece with this, is performed. The movement of the hand lever 5 from the first to the second position thus advantageously simultaneously moves the locking means 8 to the locked position and the coupling element 21, supported by the spring 28', to the extended position. Conversely, when the cartridge holder 4 is unlocked by pivoting the hand lever 5 from the second position to the first position, the locking means 8, supported by the springs 28, are transferred to the unlocked position and the coupling element 21 to the retracted position. In FIG. 4, both the locking means 8 are in the locked position and the coupling element 21 is in the extended position. The liquid line 22 of the coupling element 21 is aligned with the liquid supply opening 19 of the cartridge holder 14 and is connected to it in a liquid-tight manner by the sealing means 24 . Similarly, the compressed air line 23 of the coupling element 21 is aligned with the compressed air supply opening 18 of the cartridge holder 14 and is connected to it in an airtight manner by the sealant 24 . Compressed air is preferably already present in this position. However, since the piercing spike 16 is in the retracted position, the compressed air does not yet enter the compressed air line 17 and consequently also does not exit from the compressed air outlet opening of the piercing spike 16 . In the position shown here, the beverage preparation machine 1 is ready for beverage preparation.

FIG. 5 now shows the state immediately after the beverage has been prepared. The control device has preferably previously activated a drive which actuates the actuator element 20 . As a result, it is pivoted about the fixed horizontal tilting axis, so that an end designed in particular as a ram contacts the piercing pin 16 and displaces it in the pin guide upwards into the extended position. On the way to the extended position, the puncturing prong 16 pierces the sealing element 13 and the beverage substance begins to flow into the mixing chamber between the puncturing prong 16 and the sealing element 13, in particular via the above-mentioned, optional, channels of the puncturing prong 16. As soon as the piercer 16 has assumed the extended position, the compressed air line 17 integrated into the piercer 16 is aligned with the compressed air supply opening 18 or the compressed air line of the cartridge holder 14 arranged between them the creation of a negative pressure and at the same time supports the transfer of the beverage substance, which may be highly viscous under certain circumstances, from the reservoir 11 into the mixing chamber. The flow of the beverage substance into the mixing chamber can consequently be accelerated in particular and/or controlled in a targeted manner by the compressed air. For example, the pressure in the cartridge 10 or the reservoir 11 and thus the volume flow of the beverage substance can be adapted to the volume flow of the liquid in order to optimize the formation of the beverage. This can be of interest in particular when the volume flow of the liquid is controlled or regulated in a targeted manner in order to influence foam formation. The volume flow of the beverage substance is then preferably adjusted to the volume flow of the liquid. In the mixing chamber, the beverage substance mixes with the liquid, which has in particular been cooled and carbonated, to form the beverage. This exits via the beverage outlet 15 into the drinking vessel arranged underneath. Optionally, before, during, after and/or instead of the beverage preparation, liquid, in particular tempered and/or carbonated liquid, can be added to the drinking vessel via the liquid outlet 9 . This can be advantageous if, for example, a user wants a more diluted drink than a drink preparation stored in the drink preparation machine 1 or the user only wants to receive chilled and/or carbonated liquid.

After the beverage has been prepared, the user can return the hand lever 5 to the first position. The springs 28 move the locking means 8 back into the unlocked position, as shown in FIG. 5, guided by the link guide 27 . Deviating from the representation selected here, the coupling element 21 is preferably also transferred into the retracted position at the same time by the link guide 27'.

The cartridge system is now empty and can be removed from the cartridge holder 4. The beverage preparation machine 1 is now ready for a new beverage preparation cycle.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective detailed view of a cartridge holder 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. A horizontal section is shown. The embodiment shown here essentially corresponds to the previously explained embodiments, which is why reference is made to the relevant explanations. The hand lever 5 can be seen here on the left, which is connected in one piece to a collar-like element which forms the upper end of the cartridge holder 4 . Preferably, the link guide 27 is also formed in one piece with this element and thus with the hand lever 5 . This simplifies the structure, since only one element is required and no deflection mechanism is required to transfer the movement from the hand lever 5 to the link guide 27 .

The link guide 27 has several sections here. A curved section of the connecting link guide 27 which interacts with the locking means 8 is visible in the right edge of the picture. A simple guide is visible in the center of the image, which interacts with a stop means 26 of the cartridge holder 4 to limit the movement of the hand lever 5 and/or the link guide 27. The stop means 26 is designed here, for example, as a pin formed in one piece with the cartridge holder. He trains for the leadership of Link guide 27 has a stop so that further rotation about the vertical axis of rotation is not possible, the position of the hand lever 5 when the stop means 26 limits the rotation corresponds to the first or second position. Consequently, the first and the second position are defined by the stop means 26 . Since the forces are absorbed by the stop means 26, damage to the locking means 8 as a result of excessive force is avoided in particular.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic plan view of a cartridge holder 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment shown here essentially corresponds to the previously explained embodiments, which is why reference is made to the relevant explanations. Here, in particular, the top view of the detailed section shown in FIG. 6 is shown.

It is easy to see how the link guide 27 is designed in one piece with the hand lever 5 . Guides for the one or more similar stopping means 26 are provided on the outside, while the guides for the locking means 8 are arranged on the inside. As can be seen from the figure, the guides have a certain dead zone, ie a distance over which the position of the locking means 8 does not change.

This is helpful so that the cartridge holder 4 does not block the insertion or removal of a cartridge system even with small movements and/or misalignments of the hand lever 5 .

A cartridge 10 of an inserted cartridge system is visible in the center of the cartridge holder 4 . This has a side wall with a substantially circular cross-section, but with the side wall being flattened on one side, here the right-hand side in the figure. This asymmetry is preferably also present in the cartridge receptacle 14 and in particular also in the inner wall of the recess in the cartridge holder 4 . This provides guidance that ensures that the cartridge system and in particular the liquid supply opening 19 and the compressed air supply opening 18 of the cartridge receptacle 14 are correctly oriented after insertion. A successful and reproducible coupling with the coupling element 21 is thus ensured.

In the figures 8 and 9 sectional views are shown in different horizontal planes of a cartridge holder 4 in the first position. Corresponding sectional views in the different horizontal planes of the cartridge holder 4 in the second position are shown in FIGS. The illustrated embodiment of the cartridge holder 4 in FIGS. 8-11 essentially corresponds to that previously explained embodiments, which is why reference is made to the relevant statements.

FIG. 8 shows a schematic top view of a cartridge holder 4 with an operating element, here a hand lever 5, in the first position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The sectional plane shown here is in particular deeper than that of the illustration according to FIG. Even if this is not evident from the present drawing, the link guide 27 is connected in one piece to the hand lever 5 in the manner described above. The hand lever 5 is here in the first position. According to the embodiment shown here, the first position in relation to the orientation shown is reached at an angular position of the hand lever 5 of approximately 220°. This is advantageous because, on the one hand, the hand lever 5 can be easily reached by a user who is usually positioned frontally in front of the beverage preparation machine 1 and, on the other hand, the first position is clearly recognizable.

Furthermore, the coupling element 21 is shown at the upper edge of FIG. This has a projection 30 on its upper side, which interacts with a contour of a further link guide 27' and thus holds the coupling element 21 in the retracted position against the spring force of a spring 28', which is arranged in particular on the underside of the coupling element 21. It is particularly advantageous if the link guide 27' for the coupling element 21 is designed in one piece with the link guide 27 for the locking means 8. This is also provided according to the embodiment shown here. In the right part of the figure it can be seen that the contours of the link guides 27, 27' converge.

Furthermore, a limit switch 29 is provided here in the right-hand area of the cartridge holder 4, which determines the relative position of the slotted guides 27, 27' and/or the hand lever 5 via the collar-like element connected thereto. This relative position can then be transmitted to the control device. This determined position can be used, for example, to ensure that the control device only allows a drink to be prepared when the limit switch 29 detects that the hand lever 5 is in the second position.

The sealing means 24 can also be clearly seen in FIG. The sealing means 24 preferably comprises a material that is hygienically safe and approved for food preparation on. The projection in the plane of the drawing of the stop means 26 explained above can also be seen in the drawing. The locking means 8 also border on a stop of the contour of the link guide 27 . However, so that the locking means 8 are not damaged or jammed, a stop is formed by the stop means 26 and a corresponding guide in the link guide 27 . The forces are thus introduced into the cartridge holder 4 via the stop means 26 .

The representation of FIG. 9 now essentially corresponds to that of FIG. 8, but with a different, horizontal, sectional plane being selected. In particular, the sectional plane selected here lies above that of Figure 8. As explained in connection with Figure 8, the projection 30 of the coupling element 21 interacts with a contour of a further link guide 27', which, however, can certainly be formed in one piece with the link guide 27. In particular, however, the projection does not interact with the guide, which forms a stop for the stop means 26, even if this appears to be the case in FIG. The one-piece design of the hand lever 5 and link guide 27 can again be clearly seen in this representation. This is particularly advantageous since only one moving component is required.

FIG. 10 now shows the cartridge holder 4 of FIGS. 8 and 9 in the second position, which corresponds to the locked position of the locking means 8. The locking means 8 have been moved into the locked position by the contour of the link guide 27 against the spring force exerted by the spring 28 on their base, on which they are pivotably connected to the cartridge holder 4 about a horizontal axis of rotation. At the same time, the contour of the other link guide 27' has cleared the way for the coupling element 21, so that this is transferred to the extended position by the spring 28 arranged on the underside, in particular a spiral spring, and thereby couples to the cartridge holder 14. To illustrate these paths, both the coupling element 21 and the locking means 8 are shown in FIG. 10 in the unlocked or retracted position. However, the person skilled in the art understands which position is actually taken. However, the adjustment path of the coupling element 21 and the locking means 8 can be seen in an advantageous manner through the representation selected.

As in FIG. 10, FIG. 11 shows a schematic plan view of a cartridge holder 4 with the hand lever 5 in the second position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As in Figure 10, the representation of the coupling element 21 and the locking means 8 is decoupled from the position of the hand lever. The person skilled in the art understands that in the second position the coupling element 21 is actually moved further radially into the center of the recess and the rear surfaces of the upper area of the hook-like locking means 8 bear against the inside of the link guide 27 . As in FIG. 8, the stop means 26 here forms a stop for the link guide 27, so that the second position is defined as the end position. This can be detected by the limit switch 29 accordingly.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective detailed view of a cartridge holder 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The illustrated embodiment essentially corresponds to the previously described embodiments, so that reference is made to the previous explanations. In order to make the internal components recognizable, an outer housing of the cartridge holder 4, as shown for example in FIG. 2, is not shown here. The structure of the collar-like element connected to the hand lever 5 can be seen, which serves as the upper end of the cartridge holder 4 and can be pivoted relative to it between the first and second position, which are defined as end positions by the at least one stop means 26. The hand lever on the one hand, but also the link guides 27, 27' and the guide for the stop means 26 on the other hand, are integral with this element. It can be seen from the drawing that the element is designed differently at the different height levels, with the level of the slotted guide 27 interacting with the locking means 8 being higher, for example, than the level of the slotted guide 27' interacting with the coupling element 21.

In this representation, the design of the coupling element 21 can be seen clearly, including the projection 30 formed on the upper side. It can also be seen that the spring 28' is arranged around the compressed air line 23 here, which is particularly space-saving. The compressed air line 23 and the liquid line 22 are formed in one piece in the coupling element 21, the coupling element 21 being made of a plastic material, for example. Furthermore, the sealant 24, which is arranged at the tip of the coupling element 21, is clearly visible. The sealant 24 and/or the coupling element 21 is rounded on the areas of the coupling element 21 intended for contact with the cartridge receptacle 14 in order to achieve a flexible and secure coupling. The embodiment of the coupling element 21 shown here remotely resembles a pistol barrel. FIG. 13 shows a schematic top view of a cartridge holder 4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the representation corresponding in particular to a top view and a cross section in a horizontal cross section of the embodiment from FIG. In particular, the illustrated embodiment essentially corresponds to that from FIG. 10, which is why reference is made to the relevant explanations, although here the coupling element 21 is illustrated in the correct, extended position.

Reference List

1 beverage preparation machine

2 housing

3 fluid reservoir

4 cartridge holder

5 hand levers

6 additional controls

7 storage area

8 locking means

9 Additional liquid outlet

10 cartridge

11 reservoir

12 flange

13 sealing element

14 cartridge holder

15 beverage outlet

16 piercing spike

17 compressed air line (of the piercer)

18 compressed air supply opening

19 liquid supply port

20 actuator element

21 coupling element

22 liquid line (of the coupling element)

23 compressed air line (of the coupling element)

24 sealant

25 identifier detector

26 stopping agents

27, 27' link guide

28, 28' spring

29 limit switches

30 lead

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS

1. Beverage preparation machine (1), in particular a dispenser, for preparing a beverage using a cartridge system consisting of a cartridge (10) which has a beverage substance in a reservoir (11) and a cartridge receptacle (14) connected to the cartridge (10), which has at least one liquid supply opening (19), a mixing chamber and a beverage outlet (15), wherein the beverage preparation machine (1) comprises a cartridge holder (4), in particular configured like a balcony, wherein the cartridge system can be inserted into the cartridge holder (4), wherein the Beverage preparation machine (1), a liquid reservoir (3), a liquid conditioning system for conditioning a liquid from the liquid reservoir (3), a coupling element (21) for selective coupling between the liquid conditioning system and the liquid supply opening (19) of the cartridge holder (14) and a control device for controlling the Beverage preparation machine (1), wherein the coupling element (21) has at least one liquid line (22), characterized in that the cartridge holder (4) has at least one locking means (8) which is provided for locking the cartridge system in the cartridge holder (4) to reversibly lock, wherein the locking means (8) can be reversibly transferred from an unlocked position to a locked position, wherein the locking means (8) in the locked position interacts with the cartridge system in a positive and/or non-positive manner.

2. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to Claim 1 or according to the preamble of Claim 1, characterized in that the coupling element (21) can be transferred from a retracted position to an extended position, with a particularly tight fluid connection in the extended position between the Liquid supply opening (19) of the cartridge holder (14) and the liquid line (22) of the coupling element (21) is present.

3. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge holder (4) has a, in particular centrally arranged, recess into which the cartridge system, in particular the cartridge holder (14), can be used at least partially.

4. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking means (8) is designed to be rotatable about an axis, in particular a horizontally arranged axis.

5. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cartridge holder (4) has several, preferably at least three, locking means (8) which are particularly preferably distributed around the circumference of the recess, in particular evenly.

6. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one locking means (8) is hook-shaped at least in sections, the hook-shaped section being intended to be connected to a section of the cartridge system, in particular a flange (12). of the cartridge (10) to interact in an interlocking manner.

7. beverage preparation machine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one locking means (8) is biased towards the unlocked position, in particular by a spring (28).

8. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage preparation machine (1), in particular the cartridge holder (4), has an operating element, in particular a hand lever (5), the operating element being movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position of the control element the locking means (8) is in the unlocked position and in the second position of the control element the locking means (8) is in the locked position, wherein the control element is configured in such a way that in the Adjustment from the first position to the second position, the locking means (8) is transferred from the unlocked position to the locked position.

9. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the operating element can be rotated about a vertical axis, which runs in particular centrally through the recess of the cartridge holder (4), preferably in an angular range of 10 to 180 degrees, particularly preferably in an angular range of 40-120 degrees, most preferably in an angular range of about 90 degrees.

10. The beverage preparation machine (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the control element is connected, in particular in one piece, to a slotted guide (27), the slotted guide (27) being designed to, during an adjustment, in particular a rotation, by the vertical axis to transfer the locking means (8) from the unlocked to the locked position.

11. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling element (21) is prestressed in the direction of the extended position, in particular by a spring (28').

12. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control element is connected, in particular in one piece, to a link guide (27'), the link guide (27') being designed for an adjustment, in particular a rotation about the vertical axis, to transfer the coupling element (21) from the extended position to the retracted position.

13. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage preparation machine (1) comprises a compressed air source, the compressed air source being set up to supply compressed air to the cartridge system, in particular to a compressed air supply opening (18) of the cartridge holder (14), wherein the coupling element (21) is also set up for selective coupling between the compressed air source and the compressed air supply opening (18) of the cartridge holder (14), wherein the coupling element (21) has a compressed air line (23).

14. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to at least claims 2 and 13, characterized in that in the extended position there is an, in particular tight, fluid connection between the compressed air supply opening (18) of the cartridge holder (14) and the compressed air line (23) of the coupling element.

15. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling element (21) has a sealing means (24) at least in a region provided for contacting with the cartridge receptacle (14), the sealing means (24) having an at least partially comprises elastic material, in particular an elastic plastic material.

16. Beverage preparation machine (1) at least according to claim 8, characterized in that the cartridge holder (4) has at least one stop means (26), which preferably interacts with a link guide, in particular the link guide (27) according to claim 10, in such a way that the first Position and / or the second position are defined as end positions.

17. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the liquid line (22) and preferably the compressed air line (23) of the coupling element (21) are rigid lines and are in particular provided in one piece in the coupling element (21).

18. Beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage preparation machine (1), in particular the control device, is configured in such a way that a beverage preparation, in particular a liquid supply and/or a compressed air supply, through the coupling element (21) only then is possible when the operating element is in the second position and/or the locking means (8) is in the locked position.

19. Beverage preparation system with a beverage preparation machine (1) according to one of the preceding claims and a cartridge system, wherein the cartridge system for beverage preparation can be replaced in the cartridge holder (4) of the beverage preparation machine (1), the cartridge system having a cartridge (10), which has a reservoir (11) filled with beverage substance, and a cartridge receptacle (14) which can be connected to the cartridge (10) in a connection area, the cartridge (10) having a cartridge opening, the cartridge opening being provided with a sealing element (13), in particular a sealing foil, is closed, the sealing element (13) sealing off the reservoir (11) in a fluid-tight manner from the cartridge holder (14), the cartridge holder (14) having a mixing chamber which can be connected to the reservoir (11) and a liquid supply opening (19) opening into the mixing chamber for coupling to the liquid line (22) of the coupling elements (21) so that a liquid can be introduced into the mixing chamber, the cartridge holder (14) having a cartridge discharge device for transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir (11) into the mixing chamber, the cartridge holder (14) having a beverage outlet (15). to discharge one beverage resulting from mixing the liquid with the beverage substance from the mixing chamber.

20. Beverage preparation system according to claim 19, characterized in that the cartridge discharge device comprises a mandrel guide and a piercer (16) mounted displaceably within the mandrel guide, in particular in one direction, the piercer (16) moving between a retracted position in which the piercer ( 16) is spaced apart from the sealing element (13) and in an extended position, in which the piercing spike (16) pierces the sealing element (13) and projects into the reservoir (11), by an actuator element (20) of the beverage preparation machine (1) is movable.

21. Beverage preparation system according to claim 20, characterized in that the beverage preparation machine (1) comprises a drive, in particular a motorized drive, for the actuator element (20).

22. Beverage preparation system according to one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that the cartridge holder (14), in particular the cartridge discharge device, a compressed air supply opening (18) for coupling to the compressed air line (23) of the coupling element (21), a compressed air outlet and a compressed air line ( 17) which extends from the compressed air supply opening (18) to the compressed air outlet, the coupling element (21) being designed to introduce compressed air from the compressed air source of the beverage preparation machine (1) through the compressed air supply opening (18) into the compressed air line (17), wherein the compressed air line (17) is preferably integrated into the puncturing pin (16), wherein the cartridge discharge device is particularly preferably designed in such a way that when the puncturing pin (16) is in the extended position, the beverage substance can be transferred from the reservoir (11) into the mixing chamber by the compressed air is.

23. A method for preparing a beverage with a beverage preparation system according to any one of claims 19 to 22, characterized by the following steps:

- inserting a cartridge system consisting of a cartridge (10) and a cartridge holder (14) into the cartridge holder (4),

- Transferring the locking means (8) from the unlocked position to the locked position

- Transferring the coupling element (21) from the retracted position to the extended position to establish a connection between the Liquid line (22) of the coupling element (21) and the fluid supply opening (19) of the cartridge holder (14) and preferably for establishing a connection between the compressed air line (23) of the coupling element (21) and the compressed air supply opening (18) of the cartridge holder (14),

- Transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir (11) of the cartridge (10) into the mixing chamber of the cartridge holder (14), in particular by feeding compressed air into the reservoir (11),

- introducing a liquid into the mixing chamber of the cartridge holder (14) through the coupling element (21),

- Discharging the beverage produced in the mixing chamber by mixing the beverage substance with the liquid through the beverage outlet (15).

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the step of transferring the beverage substance from the reservoir (11) of the cartridge (10) into the mixing chamber of the cartridge receptacle (14) comprises actuating the cartridge discharge device, in particular by transferring the piercing spike (16) from the retracted Position in the extended position, causing a perforation of the sealing element (13).

25. The method according to any one of claims 23 or 24, wherein the step of transferring the locking means (8) from the unlocked position to the locked position comprises transferring the operating element from the first position to the second position and/or wherein the step of transferring of the coupling element (21) from the retracted position to the extended position comprises transferring the operating element from the first position to the second position.