KR20050107745A - Machine for the preparation of beverages - Google Patents

Abstract

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

Description

Machine for the preparation of beverages {MACHINE FOR THE PREPARATION OF BEVERAGES}

The present invention relates to a machine for preparation of a beverage, in particular a machine for use with a sealed cartridge which is formed from a material which is virtually impermeable to air and water and which contains at least one component for preparation of the beverage.

It has conventionally been proposed to seal beverage preparation ingredients into individual air impermeable packages for use in beverage machines. For example, cartridges or capsules containing compacted ground coffee for use in certain coffee preparation machines, commonly referred to as "espresso" machines, are known. In the manufacture of coffee using such a preparation machine, a coffee cartridge is placed in a brewing chamber and hot water passes through the cartridge at a relatively high pressure, thereby extracting the coffee flavor component from the ground coffee to produce a coffee beverage. . Typically, such machines operate at pressures in excess of 6 × 10 ⁵ Pa. A preparation machine of the type described is a relatively expensive machine at present, since parts of the machine, such as water pumps and seals, must be able to withstand high pressures.

International patent publication WO 01/58786 describes a cartridge for the preparation of a beverage operating at a pressure in the generally range of 0.7 to 2.0 x 10 ⁵ Pa. However, cartridges are designed for use in beverage preparation machines for the commercial or industrial market and are relatively expensive. The beverage filter cartridge holder of WO 01/58786 also includes inlet and outlet probes for puncturing the beverage cartridge in use. The inlet and outlet probes are supported by plates permanently mounted to the pneumatic cylinders by ball joints. Inlet and outlet probes are difficult to access and therefore difficult to maintain, especially to clean.

Thus, there remains a need for cartridges for beverage preparation, where cartridges and beverage preparation machines are particularly suitable for the home market in terms of cost, performance and reliability. There is also a need for a beverage preparation machine for a cartridge that is simple to operate and reliable in operation. In particular, the means for inserting and withdrawing beverage cartridges should be simple to operate and provide a reliable sealing force to maintain pressure in the beverage cartridge during the dispensing cycle. Separately or additionally, a means is needed to provide a reliable and known sealing force to withstand the pressure in the beverage cartridge during the dispensing cycle. Alternatively or additionally, the machine is preferably easy to maintain.

1 is a cross-sectional view of the outer member of the first and second embodiments of a cartridge for use with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the detail of the outer member of FIG. 1 showing an inwardly cylindrical extension. FIG.

3 is a cross-sectional view of the detail of the outer member of FIG. 1 showing a slot;

4 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of FIG.

5 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of FIG. 1 in an inverted orientation;

6 is a plan view from above of the outer member of FIG.

Figure 7 is a sectional view of the inner member of the first embodiment of the cartridge.

8 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of FIG.

Figure 9 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 7 in an inverted orientation;

10 is a plan view from above of the inner member of FIG.

Figure 11 is a sectional view of the first embodiment of the cartridge in the assembled state.

Figure 12 is a sectional view of the inner member of the second embodiment of the cartridge.

FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of details of the inner member of FIG. 12 showing an opening; FIG.

Figure 14 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 12;

Figure 15 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 12 in an inverted orientation;

Figure 16 is another cross sectional view of the inner member of Figure 12;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of another detail of the inner member of FIG. 12 showing an air inlet. FIG.

Figure 18 is a sectional view of the second embodiment of the cartridge in the assembled state.

Figure 19 is a sectional view of the outer member of the third and fourth embodiments of the cartridge for use with the present invention.

Figure 20 is a cross sectional view of the detail of the outer member of Figure 19, showing an inwardly cylindrical extension.

Figure 21 is a plan view from above of the outer member of Figure 19;

Figure 22 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of Figure 19;

Figure 23 is a perspective view from above of the outer member of Figure 19 in an inverted orientation;

Figure 24 is a sectional view of the inner member of the third embodiment of the cartridge.

Figure 25 is a plan view from above of the inner member of Figure 24;

FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of detail of the inner member of FIG. 24 showing the inward upper rim; FIG.

Figure 27 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 24;

Figure 28 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 24 in an inverted orientation;

Figure 29 is a sectional view of the third embodiment of the cartridge in the assembled state.

Figure 30 is a sectional view of the inner member of the fourth embodiment of the cartridge.

Figure 31 is a plan view from above of the inner member of Figure 30;

32 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of FIG. 30;

Figure 33 is a perspective view from above of the inner member of Figure 30 in an inverted orientation;

Figure 34 is a sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the cartridge in the assembled state.

35 is a front perspective view of the beverage preparation machine according to the present invention.

Figure 36 is a front perspective view of the machine of Figure 35 with the cartridge head in the open position.

37 is a rear perspective view of the machine of FIG. 35, with some parts omitted for clarity.

FIG. 38 is another rear perspective view of the machine of FIG. 35, with some parts omitted for clarity.

Figure 39 is a perspective view of the cartridge head of the machine of Figure 35, with some parts omitted for clarity.

Figure 40 is another perspective view of the cartridge head of the machine of Figure 35, with some parts omitted for clarity.

Figure 41 is a sectional view of the cartridge head in the closed position.

Figure 42 is a sectional view of the cartridge head in the open position.

Figure 43 shows a schematic layout of the machine of Figure 35;

44A and 44B show a schematic layout of first and second code recognition means for the machine of FIG.

45 is a top view of the beverage of the present invention including a barcode.

Accordingly, the present invention provides a closure mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a fixed lower portion and an upper portion rotatable relative to the lower portion, the upper portion being displaced from an open position in which the upper portion is separated from the lower portion. Can be moved to a closed position that engages the lower portion, the closing mechanism further comprising a clamping lever operable to retain the upper portion in the closed position, the clamping lever being first pivotally connected to the upper portion at the first pivot portion. And a second member having a first end pivotable about the member and the second pivot, wherein the end of the first member and the second end of the second member are configured such that the clamping lever has stable first and second positions. 3 when the clamping lever is pivotally connected together at the pivot part and the upper part is moved from the open position to the closed position The clamping lever is stably moved from the first position to the second position.

The closure mechanism of the present invention provides a reliable and inexpensive mechanism for inserting and withdrawing a beverage cartridge into a beverage preparation machine. The instrument can be operated with one hand and does not require power. The lever device is prevented from becoming complicated.

Preferably, the clamping lever comprises at least one hook member for engaging the indentation on the lower part.

Preferably, in the first stable position, the third pivot portion lies on the first side of the reference line connecting the first pivot point and the second pivot point. In a second stable position, the third pivot portion lies on the second side of the reference line connecting the first pivot point and the second pivot point.

Typically, the first side of the baseline is closest to the fixed bottom portion and the second side of the baseline is farthest from the fixed bottom portion.

Preferably, the first end of the second member is pivotally connected to the lower portion. The second member includes a reciprocating member. The reciprocating member includes a cylinder, a stem received in the cylinder, and an elastic sleeve that biases the stem into an extended shape. The stable movement of the clamping lever from the first position to the second position is controlled by the deformation of the elastic sleeve.

Preferably, the first member of the clamping lever comprises a U-shaped arm extending around the front face of the beverage preparation machine.

Typically, the clamping mechanism comprises two second members on each side of the beverage preparation machine.

Advantageously, the closure mechanism further comprises a cartridge holder interposed between the lower portion and the upper portion and rotatable relative to the lower portion and the upper portion. In this case, the rotation of the upper part towards the lower part causes the upper part to engage the cartridge holder and the cartridge holder is in contact with the lower part, while at the same time the inlet and outlet punching means provided in the lower part are housed in the cartridge holder when in use Perforated cartridges. Reliable and accurate positioning of the beverage cartridge is ensured by the cartridge mount. The cartridge mount also automatically separates the beverage cartridge from the inlet and outlet perforator upon opening. This greatly improves the ease of removal of the cartridges and ensures that the inlet and outlet perforators are below the height of the cartridge mount when the consumer inserts their hands. This reduces the likelihood of injury to the consumer.

The present invention provides a closure mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a lower portion and an upper portion, the upper portion and the lower portion of which are arranged between the upper portion and the lower portion of the beverage cartridge from an open position in which the beverage cartridge can be received within the closure mechanism. Moveable relative to each other up to a closed position held in place, the closure mechanism being in contact with the top and bottom surfaces of the beverage cartridge at or near the center of the beverage cartridge to apply a compression force greater than 50 N .

The closure mechanism of the present invention provides a very rigid mechanism that holds the beverage cartridge firmly in the beverage preparation machine. Clamping forces above 50 N ensure that the cartridge does not expand and leak or rupture during operation. In addition, the applied compressive force acts to prevent failure or relative movement of the components of the beverage cartridge. The compressive force also serves to compress the components or components of the cartridge together. This ensures that the internal dimensions of the passages and openings in the cartridge are fixed so that they cannot be changed during pressurization of the cartridge.

The closure mechanism may apply a compressive force of greater than 130 N.

Preferably, the closing mechanism applies a compressive force of approximately 200 N.

Preferably, the closing mechanism also contacts the peripheral flange of the beverage cartridge. The closure mechanism may also be in contact with the top side of the beverage cartridge.

Preferably, the closure mechanism further comprises an elastic member in contact with at least a portion of the upper surface of the beverage cartridge. The elastic member may be a spring member.

Preferably, the spring member is a viewing window.

Preferably, the lower portion may comprise a protruding portion that contacts the central portion of the lower surface of the beverage cartridge. The protruding portion ensures that most of the compressive force applied to the cartridge is transferred upward through the central area of the cartridge to the top surface of the cartridge. The load bearing member is preferably provided in this central area in the cartridge.

Preferably, the lower portion is fixed and the upper portion is rotatable relative to the lower portion from the open position to the closed position. Preferably, the closure mechanism further comprises a cartridge mount interposed between the lower portion and the upper portion and rotatable relative to the lower portion and the upper portion for receiving a beverage cartridge in use.

The invention also provides a closure mechanism for a beverage preparation machine comprising a fixed lower portion, an upper portion rotatable with respect to the lower portion, and a cartridge holder interposed between the lower portion and the upper portion and rotatable with respect to the lower portion and the upper portion. Wherein the lower portion comprises an inlet drilling means and an outlet drilling means for respectively forming an inlet and an outlet of the cartridge housed in the cartridge holder in use, the upper portion being engaged with the cartridge holder by rotation of the upper portion towards the lower portion. The cartridge holder is brought into contact with the lower portion, and at the same time the inlet and outlet drilling means puncture the cartridge contained in the cartridge holder in use.

The closure mechanism of the present invention provides a reliable and inexpensive mechanism for inserting and withdrawing a beverage cartridge into a beverage preparation machine. The instrument can be operated with one hand and does not require power. The lever device is prevented from becoming complicated. In addition, reliable and accurate positioning of the beverage cartridge is ensured by the cartridge holder. The cartridge mount also automatically separates the beverage cartridge from the inlet and outlet perforator upon opening. This greatly improves the ease of removal of the cartridges and ensures that the inlet and outlet perforators are below the height of the cartridge mount when the consumer inserts their hands. This reduces the likelihood of injury to the consumer.

Preferably, the upper portion is movable between an open position for storing the cartridge in the cartridge holder and a closed position where the cartridge holder comes into contact with the lower portion.

Preferably, in the open position, the upper part is oriented substantially vertically. In the closed position, the upper part is oriented horizontally.

Preferably, the cartridge holder includes a recess for receiving the cartridge. The recess may include an irregular portion for preventing the rotation of the cartridge contained in the recess.

Preferably, the cartridge holder is deflected with respect to the lower portion fixed such that the cartridge holder is separated from the lower portion in an open position where the upper portion is separated from the lower portion and the cartridge holder. In addition, in the open position, the cartridge holder can be separated from the inlet drilling means and the outlet drilling means.

The present invention also provides a cartridge containing one or more beverage components, comprising a first puncture element for forming an inlet in a cartridge housed in a beverage preparation machine in use and a second puncture element for forming an outlet in the cartridge in use. And a beverage preparation machine for preparing a beverage from the first and second puncture elements, which are formed as a single removable unit.

The removable unit comprising the inlet and outlet perforators allows for easy cleaning of the components of the machine. In particular, the perforator may be located in a dish washer or similar device.

Preferably, the beverage preparation machine further comprises a fixed lower part and an upper part rotatable relative to the lower part, the upper part being lower part from an open position in which the upper part is separated from the lower part for receiving the cartridge. And the removable unit is mounted in a fixed lower part in use.

Preferably, the inlet and outlet perforators are oriented perpendicular and parallel to each other.

Preferably, the inlet and outlet perforators are made of plastic material.

The term "cartridge" as used herein means any package, container, small sachet or receptacle containing one or more beverage ingredients in the manner described above. The cartridge may be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible.

Cartridges for use with the present invention may contain one or more beverage ingredients suitable for the preparation of beverage products. The beverage product may be one of dairy based beverages including, for example, coffee, tea, chocolate, or milk. The beverage ingredient may be powdered, ground, leafy, or liquid. The beverage ingredient may be insoluble or soluble. Examples include roasted and ground coffee, leaf teas, powdered chocolate and soups, liquid milk beverages and concentrated fruit juices.

In the following description, the terms "top" and "bottom" and equivalent terms thereof will be used to describe the relative positional relationship of the features of the present invention. The terms "upper" and "lower" and equivalent terms refer to a cartridge (or other component) in its normal orientation for insertion into and subsequent dispensing into a beverage preparation machine, eg, as shown in FIG. It should be understood to refer to. In particular, "upper" and "lower" refer to relative positions that are close or far from the top surface 11 of the cartridge, respectively. Further, the terms "inner" and "external" and equivalent terms thereof will be used to describe the relative positional relationship of the features of the present invention. The terms "inner" and "outer" and equivalent terms refer to the relative position of the cartridge (or other component) in the state near or far from the center or main axis X of the cartridge 1 (or other component), respectively. It should be understood to refer to.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

As shown in Fig. 11, the cartridge 1 of the present invention generally includes an outer member 2, an inner member 3 and a laminate 5. The outer member 2, the inner member 3, and the laminate 5 may include an interior 120 containing one or more beverage ingredients, an inlet 121, an outlet 122, and an inlet 121 to the outlet 122. And to form a cartridge 1 having a beverage flow path through the interior 120. The inlet 121 and the outlet 122 are initially sealed by the laminate 5 and are opened by perforation or cutting of the laminate 5 in use. The beverage flow path is formed by the spatial internal relationship between the outer member 2, the inner member 3 and the laminate 5, as described below. Other components, such as the filter 4, which will be described further below, may optionally be included in the cartridge 1.

A first form of cartridge 1, which will be described for the purpose of providing background knowledge, is shown in Figs. The first form of the cartridge 1 is especially designed for use in the distribution of filtered products, such as roasted and ground coffee or leaf tea. However, this type of cartridge 1 and other forms described below include chocolate, coffee, tea, sweeteners, cordials, flavorings, alcoholic beverages, flavored milk. It can also be used with other products such as fruit juices, squash, sauces and desserts.

As can be seen from Fig. 5, the overall shape of the cartridge 1 is generally a circular or disc shape in which the diameter of the cartridge 1 is considerably larger than its height. The main axis X passes through the center of the outer member as shown in FIG. Typically, the total diameter of the outer member 2 is 74.5 mm ± 6 mm and the total height is 16 mm ± 3 mm. Typically, the volume of the cartridge 1 when assembled is 30.2 ml ± 20%.

The outer member 2 generally comprises a bowl-shaped shell 10 having a curved annular wall 13, a closed top 11 and an open bottom 12. The diameter of the outer member 2 is smaller at the top 11 compared to the diameter at the bottom 12, which is the result of the annular wall 13 spreading from the closed top 11 to the open bottom 12. The annular wall 13 and the closed top 11 together form a receptacle having an interior 34.

A hollow inward cylindrical extension 18 is provided in the closed top 11, centered on the main axis X. As shown more clearly in FIG. 2, the cylindrical extension 18 comprises a stepped profile having first, second and third portions 19, 20, 21. The first portion 19 is a circular cylinder at right angles. The second portion 20 has a conical shape and is tapered inwardly. The third part is another exactly circular cylinder and is closed by the lower surface 31. The diameters of the first, second and third portions 19, 20, 21 cross the diameter of the cylindrical extension 18 from the top 11 of the cylindrical extension 18 to the closed lower surface 31. Incrementally decreases to decrease. A generally horizontal shoulder 32 is formed on the cylindrical extension 18 at the junction between the second and third portions 20, 21.

An outwardly extending shoulder 33 is formed in the outer member 2 towards the lower portion 12. The outwardly extending shoulder 33 forms an annular wall 15 that is coaxial with the annular wall 13, thereby forming an annular track forming the manifold 16 between the secondary wall 15 and the annular wall 13. To form. Manifold 16 passes around the circumference of the outer member 2. A series of slots 17 are provided in the annular wall 13 in parallel with the manifold 16 to provide gas and liquid communication between the interior 34 of the outer member 2 and the manifold 16. do. As shown in FIG. 3, the slot 17 comprises vertical slits in the annular wall 13. Twenty to forty slots are provided. In the embodiment shown, 37 slots 17 are provided at substantially equal intervals around the circumference of the manifold 16. The slot 17 preferably has a length of 1.4 to 1.8 mm. Typically, the length of each slot is 1.6 mm representing 10% of the total height of the outer member 2. The width of the slots is 0.25 to 0.35 mm. Typically, each slot is 0.3 mm wide. The width of the slot 17 is narrow enough to prevent the beverage component from passing through it into the manifold 16 during storage or use.

The inlet chamber 26 is formed in the outer member 2 at the periphery of the outer member 2. As most clearly shown in FIG. 5, a cylindrical wall 27 is provided that forms an inlet chamber 26 therein and separates the inlet chamber 26 from the interior 34 of the outer member 2. The cylindrical wall 27 has a closed upper surface 28 formed on a plane perpendicular to the main axis X and an open lower end 29 on the same plane as the lower portion 12 of the outer member 2. The inlet chamber 26 communicates with the manifold 16 via two slots 30 as shown in FIG. Alternatively, one to four slots may be used for communication between manifold 16 and inlet chamber 26.

The lower end of the outwardly extending shoulder 33 is provided with an outwardly extending flange 35 extending perpendicular to the main axis X. Typically, the flange 35 has a width of 2 to 4 mm. A portion of the flange 35 is enlarged to form a handle on which the outer member 2 can be held. The handle 24 is provided with an upward rim 25 to improve gripping.

The outer member 2 is formed as an integral single piece from high density polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyester, or two or more laminates of these materials. Suitable polypropylenes are a range of polymers available from DSM UK Limited (Reditch, UK). The outer member can be opaque, transparent or translucent. The manufacturing process may be injection molding.

The inner member 3 as shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 includes an annular frame 41 and a cylindrical funnel 40 extending downward. The main axis X passes through the center of the inner member 3 as shown in FIG.

As best shown in FIG. 8, the annular frame 41 comprises an outer rim 51 and an inner hub 52 joined by ten equally spaced radial spokes 53. The inner hub 52 is integral with and extends from the cylindrical funnel 40. A filtration opening 55 is formed in the annular frame 41 between the radial spokes 53. A filter 4 is arranged on the annular frame 41 to cover the filtration opening 55. The filter is preferably made from a material having a high wet strength, such as for example a nonwoven fiber material of polyester. Other materials that can be used include water impermeable cellulosic materials such as cellulosic materials including woven paper fibers. Woven paper fibers may be mixed with fibers of polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and / or polyethylene. The incorporation of these plastic materials into cellulosic materials makes it possible to heat seal the cellulosic materials. The filter 4 can also be treated or coated with a material that is activated by heat and / or pressure, so that it can be sealed in this way to the annular frame 41.

As shown by the cross-sectional profile of FIG. 7, the inner hub 52 is located at a lower position than the outer rim 51 so that the annular frame 41 has a lower profile that is inclined.

The upper surface of each spoke 53 is provided with an upright web 54 which divides the empty space above the annular frame 41 into a plurality of passages 57. Each passage 57 abuts on both sides by a web 54 and a bottom face by a filter 4. The passage 57 extends downwardly from the outer rim 51 toward the cylindrical funnel 40 in the opening 56 formed by the inner distal end of the web 54 and opens therein.

The cylindrical funnel 40 includes an outer tube 42 surrounding an inner discharge spout 43. The outer tube 42 forms the outside of the cylindrical funnel 40. The outlet 43 is coupled to the outer tube 42 at the upper end of the outlet 43 by an annular flange 47. The outlet 43 includes an inlet 45 at the upper end in communication with the opening 56 of the passage 57, and an outlet 44 at the lower end through which the prepared beverage is discharged into a cup or other receptacle. Outlet 43 includes a conical portion 48 at the top and a cylindrical portion 58 at the bottom. The cylindrical portion 58 may have some taper to narrow toward the outlet 44. Conical portion 48 assists in channel formation of the beverage down from passageway 57 toward outlet 44 without generating turbulence in the beverage. The upper surface of the conical portion 48 is provided with four support webs 49 spaced at equal intervals around the circumference of the cylindrical funnel 40. The support web 49 forms a channel 50 between them. The upper edges of the support web 49 are at the same height as each other and perpendicular to the major axis X.

The inner member 3 can be formed as an integral single piece by injection molding from polypropylene or a material similar to the material described above, in the same manner as the outer member 2.

Alternatively, the inner member 3 and / or the outer member 2 can be made from a biodegradable polymer. Examples of suitable materials include degradable polyethylene (eg SPITEK supplied by Symphony Environmental, Borehamwood, UK), biodegradable polyester amides (eg BAK 1095 supplied by Symphony Environmental), polylactic acid (Minnesota, USA) PLA), starch-based polymers, cellulose derivatives, and polypeptides supplied by Gargil, Calif.

The laminate 5 is formed of two layers, a first layer of aluminum and a second layer of cast polypropylene. The aluminum layer has a thickness of 0.02 to 0.07 mm. The cast polypropylene layer has a thickness of 0.025 to 0.064 mm. In one embodiment, the aluminum layer is 0.06 mm thick and the polypropylene layer is 0.025 mm thick. Such laminates are particularly advantageous because they have a high resistance to curling during assembly. As a result, the laminate 5 can be cut in advance to the correct size and shape and subsequently transferred to the assembly station on the production line without deformation. As a result, the laminate 5 is particularly suitable for welding. Other laminate materials may be used, including PET / aluminum / PP, PE / EVOH / PP, PET / metal / PP, and aluminum / PP laminates. Roll laminate stock may be used instead of die cutting stock.

The cartridge 1 may be closed by a rigid or semi-rigid lid instead of the flexible laminate.

Assembly of the cartridge 1 involves the following steps.

a) the inner member 3 is inserted into the outer member 2,

b) the filter 4 is cut to shape and disposed on the inner member 3, received over the cylindrical funnel 40 and seated against the annular frame,

c) the inner member 3, the outer member 2 and the filter 4 are joined by ultrasonic welding,

d) the cartridge 1 is filled with one or more beverage ingredients,

e) the laminate 5 is attached to the outer member 2.

These steps will be discussed in more detail below.

The outer member 3 is oriented with the open bottom 12 facing up. Thereafter, the inner member 3 is inserted into the outer member 2, with the outer rim 51 being housed so as to be loosely fitted in the axial extension 14 at the top 11 of the cartridge 1. . At the same time, the cylindrical extension 18 of the outer member 2 is received in the upper portion of the cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner member 3. The third portion 21 of the cylindrical extension 18 is cylindrical with the closed lower surface 31 of the cylindrical extension 18 supported against the support web 49 of the inner member 3. It is mounted inside the funnel 40. Thereafter, the filter 4 is disposed above the inner member 3 such that the filter material is in contact with the annular rim 51. An ultrasonic welding process is then used to couple the filter 4 to the inner member 3 and at the same time to couple the inner member 3 to the outer member 2 in the same process step. The inner member 3 and the filter 4 are welded around the outer rim 51. The inner member 3 and the outer member 3 are joined by a weld line around the outer rim 51 and also at the upper edge of the web 54.

As most clearly shown in Fig. 11, the outer member 2 and the inner member 3, when joined together, have a cylindrical funnel 40 which forms an inner 120 and an filtration chamber under the annular flange 41. An empty space 130 is formed in the outside of the. The filtration chamber 130 and the passage 57 on the annular frame 41 are separated by filter paper 4.

Filtration chamber 130 contains one or more beverage ingredients 200. One or more beverage ingredients are filled in the filtration chamber 130. For filtration type beverages, the ingredients are typically roasted and ground coffee or leaf tea. The filling density of the beverage component in the filtration chamber 130 can be changed as needed. Typically, for filtered coffee products, the filtration chamber typically contains 5.0 to 10.2 grams of roasted and ground coffee in a 5 to 14 mm thick filter bed. Optionally, the exterior 120 can include one or more objects, such as spheres, that can move freely in the interior 120 to assist mixing by forming and disturbing turbulence in the sediment of the beverage component while the beverage is being dispensed. have.

The laminate 5 is then attached to the outer member 2 by forming a weld 126 around the periphery of the laminate 5 to join the laminate 5 to the bottom face of the outwardly extending flange 35. The weld 126 extends to seal the laminate 5 against the lower edge of the cylindrical wall 27 of the inlet chamber 26. The weld 125 is also formed between the laminate 5 and the lower edge of the outer tube 42 of the cylindrical funnel 40. The laminate 5 forms the bottom wall of the filtration chamber 130 and also seals the inlet chamber 26 and the cylindrical funnel 40. However, a small gap 123 is present between the laminate 5 and the lower edge of the outlet 43 before dispensing. Depending on the material properties of the laminate 5, various welding methods such as heat and ultrasonic welding may be used.

Advantageously, the inner member 3 spans between the outer member 2 and the laminate 5. The inner member 3 is formed from a relatively rigid material such as polypropylene. As such, the inner member 3 forms a load bearing member that acts to keep the laminate 5 and the outer member 2 spaced apart when the cartridge 1 is compressed. The cartridge 1 is preferably subjected to a compressive load of 130 to 280 N in use. The compressive force acts to prevent the cartridge from breaking under the internal pressurized state, and also serves to press the inner member 3 and the outer member 2 together. This ensures that the internal dimensions of the passages and openings in the cartridge 1 are fixed so that the cartridge 1 cannot be changed during the pressurized state.

In order to use the cartridge 1, the cartridge is first inserted into a beverage preparation machine (to be described in more detail below), and the inlet 121 and the outlet 122 are folded, perforated, laminating 5. Is opened by the perforated member. An aqueous medium under pressure, typically water, enters the cartridge 1 through the inlet 121 at an inlet chamber 26 at a pressure of 0.1 to 2.0 bar. From here, water is directed to flow through the slot 30 around the manifold 16 and through the plurality of slots 17 into the filtration chamber 130 of the cartridge 1. Water is forced to flow radially inward through the filtration chamber 130 and mix with the beverage ingredients 200 contained therein. At the same time, water is forced through the beverage component upwards. The beverage prepared by the passage of water through the beverage component passes through the filter 4 and the filtration opening 55 into the passage 57 overlying the annular frame 41. The sealing of the filter 4 onto the spokes 53 and the welding of the rim 51 with the outer member 2 ensure that all beverages pass through the filter 4 without interruption.

The beverage then flows downwardly through the opening 56 into the cylindrical funnel 40 along the radial passage 57 formed between the webs 54. The beverage passes down the channel 50 between the support webs 47 and from the outlet 43 down to the outlet 44 where the beverage is discharged into a receptacle, such as a cup.

Preferably, the beverage preparation machine comprises an air purification facility that is pressurized through the cartridge 1 at the end of the dispensing cycle to eject the beverage with compressed air remaining inside the receptacle.

The second form of the cartridge 1 is shown in Figures 12-18. The second form of the cartridge 1 is designed for use in dispensing espresso type products, such as roasted and ground coffee, which is particularly desirable for preparing beverages with bubbles of small bubbles known as crema. Many of the features of the second form of the cartridge 1 are the same as the first form, and like reference numerals are used to refer to like features. In the following description, the differences between the first and second forms will be discussed. Common features that function in the same way will not be discussed in detail.

The outer member 2 has the same configuration as the first form of the cartridge 1 as shown in Figs.

The annular frame 41 of the inner member 3 is the same as in the first form. In addition, the filter 4 is arranged on the annular frame 41 to cover the filtration opening 55. The outer tube 42 of the cylindrical funnel 40 is also the same as in the first form. However, there are many differences in the configuration of the inner member 2 of the second form as compared to the first form. As shown in FIG. 16, the outlet port 43 is provided with a partition wall 65 that extends partially upward from the outlet 44 to the outlet port 43. The partition 65 helps to prevent spraying and / or splashing as the beverage exits the outlet 43. The profile of the outlet 43 is also different and includes a stepped profile with a distinct dog-leg 66 adjacent the top of the outlet 43.

Rim 67 is provided upright from annular flange 47 to couple outer tube 42 to outlet 43. Rim 67 surrounds inlet 45 to outlet 43 and an annular channel 69 is formed between rim 67 and the upper portion of outer tube 42. Rim 67 is provided with an inward shoulder 68. At one point around the circumference of the rim 67, the opening 70 extends from the upper edge of the rim 67 to the edge point below the height of the shoulder 68, as most clearly shown in FIGS. 12 and 13. It is provided in the form of an elongated slot. The slot has a width of 0.64 mm.

The air inlet 71 is provided circumferentially aligned with the opening 70 in the annular flange 47 as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. The air inlet 71 is an opening through the flange 47 to provide communication between a point on the flange 47 and the void space under the flange 47 between the outer tube 42 and the outlet 43. It includes. Preferably, as shown, the air inlet 71 includes an upper conical portion 73 and a lower cylindrical portion 72. The air inlet 71 is typically formed by a forming tool such as a pin. The tapered profile of the air inlet 71 allows the molding tool to be more easily removed from the molded component. The wall of the outer tube 42 near the air inlet 71 is shaped to form a chute 75 that runs from the air inlet 71 to the inlet 45 of the outlet 43. As shown in Fig. 17, a canted shoulder 74 is placed directly on the upper surface of the flange 47 at a portion where the jet of beverage flowing out of the slot 70 is immediately adjacent to the air inlet 71. It is formed between the air inlet 71 and the chute 75 to ensure that it is not blocked.

The assembly procedure for the second form of the cartridge 1 is similar to the assembly of the first form. However, there are some differences. As shown in FIG. 18, the third portion 21 of the cylindrical extension 18 lies inside the support rim 67 rather than against the support web. The shoulder 32 of the cylindrical extension 18 between the second part 20 and the third part 21 is supported against the upper edge of the support rim 67 of the inner member 3. Therefore, a boundary zone 124 comprising a face seal between the cylindrical extension 18 and the support rim 67 extending adjacent the entire circumference of the cartridge 1 is provided with the inner member 3. It is formed between the outer member 2. The seal between the cylindrical extension 18 and the support rim 67 extends downward through the support rim 67 to the edge point below the shoulder 68 through the support rim 67. Fluid is not gas tight. As a result, the interface fit between the cylindrical extension 18 and the support rim 67 deforms the slot 70 into the opening 128, as shown most clearly in FIG. Provide gas and liquid communication between the 43. The opening is typically 0.64 mm wide and 0.69 mm long.

The operation of the second form of the cartridge 1 for dispensing a beverage is similar to the operation of the first form, with some differences. The beverage in the radial passage 57 flows down along the passage 57 formed between the webs 54 and through the opening 56 into the annular channel 69 of the cylindrical funnel 40. From the annular channel 69, the beverage is forced under pressure through the opening 128 by the negative pressure of the beverage collected in the filtration chamber 130 and the passage 57. Therefore, the beverage is forcedly flowed through the opening 128 into the expansion chamber formed by the upper end of the outlet 43 as a jet. As shown in FIG. 18, the jet of beverage passes directly over the air inlet 71. As the beverage enters the outlet 43, the pressure of the beverage jet is lowered. As a result, air enters the beverage stream in the form of a number of small bubbles via the air inlet 71. The jet of the beverage flowing out of the opening 128 is collected downwards toward the outlet 44 through which the beverage is discharged into a receptacle such as a cup forming a crema in which bubbles are required. Therefore, the opening 128 and the air inlet 71 together form an eductor that acts to carry air into the beverage. The flow of beverage into the eductor should be kept as smooth as possible to reduce pressure loss. Advantageously, the walls of the eductor should be concave to reduce losses due to "wall effect" friction. The dimensional tolerance of the opening 128 is small. Preferably, the opening size is fixed at ± 0.02 mm ² . Hair, microfibers or other surface irregularities may be provided in the eductor or at its outlet to increase the effective cross-sectional area, which has been found to increase the degree of air incorporation.

A third form of the cartridge 1 is shown in Figures 19-29. The third form of the cartridge 1 is especially designed for use in the dispensing of soluble products, which may be in powder, liquid, syrup, gel or similar form. The soluble product is dissolved by the aqueous medium or forms a suspension in the aqueous medium when in use, an aqueous medium such as water passes through the cartridge 1. Examples of beverages include chocolate, coffee, milk, tea, soups, or other rehydrated or water soluble products. Many of the features of the third form of the cartridge 1 are the same as the previous forms, and like reference numerals are used to refer to like features. In the following description, the differences between the third form and the previous form will be discussed. Common features that function in the same way will not be described in detail.

Compared with the outer member 2 of the previous form, the hollow inwardly cylindrical extension 18 of the outer member 2 of the third form has a larger total diameter as shown in FIG. 20. In particular, the diameter of the first portion 19 is typically from 16 to 18 mm compared to 13.2 mm for the outer member 2 of the previous type. In addition, the first portion 19 is provided with a convex outer surface 19a or a bulge, as most clearly shown in FIG. 20. However, the diameter of the third portion 21 of the cartridge 1 is the same, so that the area of the shoulder 32 becomes larger than in this third form of the cartridge 1. Typically, the volume of the cartridge 1 is 32.5 ml ± 20% when assembled.

The number and location of the slots in the lower end of the annular wall 13 are also different. Three to five slots are provided. In the embodiment as shown in FIG. 23, four slots 36 are provided at equal intervals around the circumference of the manifold 16. The slot 36 has a width of 0.35 to 0.45 mm, preferably 0.4 mm, slightly wider than the previous form of the cartridge 1.

In other respects, the outer member 2 of the cartridge 1 is the same.

The configuration of the cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner member 3 is the same as the first form of the cartridge 1 in which the outer member 42, the outlet 45, the annular flange 47 and the support web 49 are provided. . The difference is that only the outlet 45 is shaped to have an upper conical section 92 and a lower cylindrical section 93.

Compared with the previous form, as shown in FIGS. 24-28, the annular frame 41 surrounds the cylindrical funnel 40 and is coupled to the cylindrical funnel 40 at or near the annular flange 47. Replaced by a skirt portion 80 coupled to the funnel by a radial strut 87. The cylindrical extension 81 of the skirt portion 80 extends upwardly from the strut 87 to form a chamber 90 having an open top surface. The upper rim 91 of the cylindrical extension 81 has an inward profile as shown in FIG. The annular wall 82 of the skirt portion 80 extends downwardly from the strut 87 to form an annular channel 86 between the skirt portion 80 and the outer tube 42.

The annular wall 82 includes at its lower end an outer flange 83 lying perpendicular to the main axis X. Rim 84 includes five openings 85 suspended downward from the bottom surface of flange 83 and arranged at equal intervals circumferentially about rim 84. Therefore, the rim 84 is provided with a castellated bottom profile.

An opening 89 is provided between the struts 87 to allow communication between the chamber 90 and the annular channel 86.

The assembly procedure for the third form of the cartridge 1 is similar to the assembly of the first form, but there are some differences. The outer member 2 and the inner member 3 are pressed together as shown in Fig. 29, and are held by a snap fitting arrangement rather than being welded together. When joining the two members, the inwardly cylindrical extension 18 is received inside the upper cylindrical extension 81 of the skirt portion 80. The inner member 3 is formed by frictional engagement of the convex outer surface 19a of the first portion 19 of the cylindrical extension 18 with the inward rim 91 of the upper cylindrical extension 81. Is retained within. By positioning the inner member 3 in the outer member 2, the mixing chamber 134 is formed to be located external to the skirt portion 80. The mixing chamber 134 holds the beverage component 200 prior to dispensing. It should be noted that the four inlets 36 and the five openings 85 are staggered in the circumferential direction with respect to each other. The radial arrangement of the two parts relative to each other need not be determined or fixed during assembly, which means that the four inlets 36 and five openings 85 are inlet and opening irrespective of the relative rotational positioning of the components. This is because the misalignment between them is guaranteed.

One or more beverage ingredients are filled in the mixing chamber 134 of the cartridge. The filling density of the beverage ingredients in the mixing chamber 134 can be changed as needed.

Thereafter, the laminate 5 is attached to the outer member 2 and the inner member 3 in the same manner as described in the previous form.

In use, water enters the mixing chamber 134 through the four slots 36 in the same manner as the previous form of the cartridge. The water is pressurized radially inwardly through the mixing chamber and mixed with the beverage ingredients contained therein. The product is dissolved or mixed with water to prepare a beverage in the mixing chamber 134, which is then moved through the opening 85 into the annular channel 86 by the negative pressure of the beverage and water in the mixing chamber 134. . The circumferential staggering of the four inlet slots 36 and the five openings 85 allows the jet of water to pass directly radially from the inlet slot 36 to the opening 85 without first being circulated in the mixing chamber 134. Guaranteed not to be. In this way, the degree and consistency of the dissolution or mixing of the product increases significantly. The beverage is forced upwardly in the annular channel 86 into the chamber 90 through the opening 89 between the struts 87. The beverage passes from the chamber 90 through the inlet 45 between the support webs 49 into the outlet 43 and toward the outlet 44 where the beverage is discharged into the receptacle, such as a cup. It has been found that the cartridge can be applied in particular to beverage ingredients in the form of viscous liquids or gels. In one application, the liquid chocolate ingredient is a cartridge (1) with a viscosity of 1700 to 3900 mPa at ambient temperature and a viscosity of 5000 to 10000 mPa at 0 ° C. and a refractive solid of 67 Brix ± 3. It is contained in. In another application, the liquid coffee is contained in the cartridge 1 at a viscosity of 70 to 2000 mPa at ambient temperature and at a viscosity of 80 to 5000 mPa at 0 ° C., in which case the coffee has a total solids level of 40 to 70%. Has

A fourth form of the cartridge 1 is shown in FIGS. 30-34. The fourth form of the cartridge 1 is especially designed for use in dispensing liquid products such as concentrated liquid milk. Many of the features of the fourth form of the cartridge 1 are the same as the previous form, and like reference numerals are used to refer to like features. In the following description, the differences between the fourth and previous forms will be discussed. Common features that function in the same way will not be discussed in detail.

The outer member 2 is the same as the third form of the cartridge 1 as shown in Figs.

The cylindrical funnel 40 of the inner member 3 is similar to that shown in the second form of the cartridge 1, but with some differences. As shown in FIG. 30, the outlet 43 is shaped with an upper conical section 106 and a lower cylindrical section 107. Three axial ribs 105 are provided on the inner surface of the outlet 43 to guide the dispensed beverage downwards toward the inlet 44 and to prevent the discharged beverage from hovering in the outlet. As a result, the rib 105 acts as a baffle. As in the second form of the cartridge 1, the air inlet 71 is provided through an annular flange 47. However, the chute 75 below the air inlet 71 is longer than in the second form.

The skirt portion 80 is provided similar to that shown in the third form of the cartridge 1 described above. Five to twelve openings 85 are provided in the rim 84. Typically, ten openings are provided rather than five provided in the third form of the cartridge 1.

An annular bowl 100 extends from and is integral with the flange 83 of the skirt portion 80. The annular bowl 100 includes a flared body 101 having an upward open upper mouth (mouth) 104. Four supply openings 103 as shown in FIGS. 30 and 31 are disposed in the body 101 at or near the lower end of the bowl 100 to which the skirt portion 80 is coupled. Preferably, the feed openings are arranged at equal intervals around the circumference of the bowl 100.

The laminate 5 is of the kind described above in the previous embodiment.

The assembly procedure for the fourth form of the cartridge 1 is the same as the assembly for the third form.

The operation of the fourth form of the cartridge is similar to the operation of the third form. Water enters cartridge 1 and mixing chamber 134 in the same manner as before. Here, the water is mixed and diluted with the liquid product and then pressurized through the opening 85 towards the outlet 44 as described above. A proportion of the liquid product is initially contained in the annular bowl 100 as shown in FIG. 34 and is not directly diluted by water entering the mixing chamber 134. Diluted liquid product in the lower portion of the mixing chamber 134 will be easier to discharge through the opening 85 rather than being pressed into the annular bowl 100 through the upper mouse 104. As a result, the liquid product in the annular bowl 100 will remain relatively concentrated as compared to the product in the lower portion of the mixing chamber 134. Liquid product in the annular bowl 100 falls through the feed opening 103 through the opening 85 into the stream of product exiting the mixing chamber 134. The annular bowl 100 retains a certain proportion of the concentrated liquid product and releases it into a more steady discharged liquid stream throughout the dispensing cycle to maintain an even concentration of diluted liquid product entering the cylindrical funnel 40. Function.

From the annular channel 86, the beverage is forcedly flowed under pressure through the opening 128 by the negative pressure of the beverage collected in the filtration chamber 134 and the chamber 90. Therefore, the beverage is pressurized through the opening 128 as a jet and into the expansion chamber formed by the upper end of the outlet 43. As shown in FIG. 34, the jet of beverage passes directly over the air inlet 71. As the beverage enters the outlet 43, the pressure of the beverage jet falls. As a result, the air is incorporated into the beverage stream via the air inlet 71 in the form of a number of small bubbles. The jet of beverage flowing out of the opening 128 collects downwardly into the inlet 44 through which the beverage is discharged into a receptacle, such as a cup, that creates a bubble shape in which bubbles are required.

Advantageously, the inner member 3, the outer member 2, the laminate 5 and the filter 4 can all be easily disinfected because the components can be separated and do not individually include twisted passages or narrow gaps. have. Rather, the required passage can be formed only after the components have been combined and disinfected. This is especially important when the beverage ingredients are dairy products such as liquid milk concentrates.

The fourth embodiment of the beverage cartridge is particularly advantageous for dispensing concentrated liquid dairy products such as liquid milk. Previously, powdered milk products have been provided in the form of starch, which is added to pre-prepared beverages. However, for cappuccino drinks, it is necessary to create foam in the milk. This has previously been accomplished by passing steam through a liquid milk product. However, this requires providing a steam source that increases the cost and complexity of the machine used to dispense the beverage. The use of steam also increases the risk of injury during operation of the cartridge. Accordingly, the present invention provides for a beverage cartridge having a concentrated liquid dairy product therein. By condensing the milk product, it has been found that more foam can be produced for a specific volume of milk as compared to fresh milk or UHT milk. This reduces the size required for the milk cartridge. Fresh semi-skimmed milk contains approximately 1.6% fat and 10% total solids. Concentrated liquid milk contains 3 to 10% fat and 25 to 40% total solids. In a typical example, the preparation contains 4% fat and 30% total solids. The concentrated milk formulation is suitable for producing foam using a low pressure preparation machine described below. In particular, the froth of the milk is achieved using the cartridge of the fourth embodiment described above at a pressure of less than 2 bar, preferably approximately 1.5 bar.

The cartridge of the fourth embodiment is also advantageous for dispensing liquid coffee products.

Embodiments of the beverage cartridge of the present invention have been found to provide an improved initiative of the extracted beverage as compared to conventional cartridges. Referring to Table 1 below, the results of the extraction yield for 20 samples of each cartridge A and B containing roasted and ground coffee are shown. Cartridge A is a beverage cartridge according to the first embodiment of the present invention. Cartridge B is a beverage cartridge of the prior art as described in the applicant's patent application WO 01/58786. The refractive index of the extracted beverage is measured in Brix, and is converted to a percentage of soluble solids (% SS) using reference tables and formulas. An example is as follows.

% SS = 0.7774 * (Brix value) + 0.0569

% Yield = (% SS * Extraction Volume (g)) / (100 * Coffee Weight (g))

TABLE 1

Cartridge A

Cartridge B

By performing t-experimental statistical analysis on the above data, the following results are given.

TABLE 2

t-Experiment: Two Samples Assuming Same Variance

The analysis shows that the dominance of the% yield equivalent to the brew strength for the cartridge of the present invention is significantly better than the prior art (at 95% confidence level) with a standard deviation of 0.88% compared to 2.24%. . This means that the beverage extracted by the cartridge of the invention can be more repeatable and has a uniform strength. This is desirable for consumers who do not want the beverage to always have the same taste and that the extraction strength is arbitrarily changed.

The material of the cartridge described above may be provided with a barrier coating to improve resistance to entry of oxygen and / or moisture and / or other contaminants. Barrier coatings may also improve the resistance to leakage of beverage ingredients from within the cartridge and / or reduce the degree of filtering of extracts from the cartridge material that may adversely affect the beverage ingredients. The barrier coating can be a material selected from the group consisting of PET, polyamide, EVOH, PVDC or metal materials. Barrier coatings may be applied by a number of instruments including, but not limited to, vapor deposition, vacuum deposition, plasma coating, coextrusion, in-mold labeling, and two / stage molding.

A beverage preparation machine 201 according to the present invention for use with the aforementioned beverage cartridge is shown in FIGS. 35-45. The beverage preparation machine 201 generally includes a housing 210 including a water tank 220, a water heater 225, a water pump 230, an air compressor 235, a control processor, a user interface 240, And cartridge head 250. The cartridge head 250 generally forms an inlet 121 and an outlet 122 within the cartridge holder 251 for holding in use, the beverage cartridge 1, the cartridge recognition means 252, and the beverage cartridge 1 in use. Inlet and outlet perforators 253 and 254 in turn.

Housing 210 holds and holds other components of machine 201 in place. The housing 210 is preferably made in whole or in part from a strong plastic material such as ABS. Alternatively, housing 210 may be made in whole or in part from a metallic material such as stainless steel or aluminum. The housing 210 is preferably the front half 211 and the rear which are joined together to allow access for installation of the machine 210 components during assembly and then form the interior 213 of the housing 210. Shell design with half 212. The rear half 212 provides a recess 214 for attachment of the water tank 220. The housing 210 is formed with means such as indents, abutments, bosses and threaded portions for holding the components of the machine 201 in place without the need for a separate chassis. This reduces the overall cost and weight of the machine 201. The base 215 of the housing 210 is preferably provided with feet to stand the machine thereon in a stable manner. Alternatively, the base 215 itself may have a shape that forms a stable support.

The front half 211 of the housing 210 includes a dispensing station 270 where dispensing of the beverage occurs. Dispensing station 270 includes a receptacle stand 271 having a hollow interior forming a drip tray 272. The upper surface 273 of the receptacle stand is provided with a grill 274 in which the receptacle is located. The solution receiver 272 may be removed from the housing 210 to facilitate emptying of the collected water. The recess 275 is formed in the front half of the housing 210 over the receptacle stand 271 to receive a receptacle of a predetermined size.

The cartridge head 250 is positioned toward the top of the housing 210 above the receptacle stand as shown in FIGS. 35 and 36. Preferably, the height of the grille 274 relative to the cartridge head 250 can be adjusted to accommodate receptacles of different sizes. The receptacle should be as close to the cartridge head 250 as possible but able to be inserted into or withdrawn from the dispensing station 270 so as to minimize the height at which the dispensed beverage comes down before contacting the receptacle. This works to minimize the spraying and frying of the beverage and to minimize the loss of entrained bubbles present. Preferably, a receptacle having a height of 70 mm to 110 mm can be inserted between the grill 274 and the cartridge head 250.

The machine user interface 240 is located on the front of the housing 210 and includes a start / stop button 241 and a plurality of status indicators 243-246.

The status indicators 243 to 246 preferably include a light emitting diode (LED) 243 indicating the readiness of the machine 201, an LED 244 indicating whether an error occurred when the machine 201 is operating, and the machine. It includes one or more LEDs 245-256 that indicate whether 201 operates in a manual or automatic mode. The LEDs 243-246 can be controlled to illuminate at a constant intensity, to flash intermittently, or both, depending on the state of the machine 201. The LEDs 243-246 can have various colors, including green, red, and yellow.

Start / stop button 241 controls the start of the dispensing cycle and is manually operated with a push button, a switch or the like.

A volume control control may be provided that allows a user of the machine 201 to manually adjust the volume of the beverage being delivered without changing other operating characteristics. Preferably, the volume control control makes it possible to adjust the volume to ± 20%. The volume control control may be a rotary knob, a linear slider, a digital readout with increment and decrement buttons, or a similar device. More typically, the volume is controlled by the user actuating the start / stop button 241.

Manual power switches (not shown) may be provided on the machine 201. Alternatively, the power supply can be controlled simply by inserting or removing the power supply plug from the main power supply.

The water tank 220 is located behind the housing 210 and is connected to the rear half 212 of the housing 210. The water tank 220 generally includes a cylindrical body 221 which may be the exact circular or frustum as needed for aesthetic reasons. The tank includes an inlet for filling the tank with water, which is closed in use by a lid 222 that can be manually removed. An outlet is provided toward the bottom of the tank and in communication with the water pump 230. The water tank 220 may be made from transparent or translucent material so that the consumer can see the amount of water remaining in the tank. Alternatively, the water tank 220 may be made from an opaque material but an internal viewing window may be provided. Additionally or instead of the foregoing, the water tank 220 includes a low level sensor that prevents the operation of the water pump 230 and optionally activates a warning indicator such as an LED when the water level in the tank is reduced to a preselected level. May be provided. Water tank 220 preferably has an internal capacity of approximately 1.5 liters.

The water pump 230 is operatively connected between the water tank 220 and the water heater 225 as shown schematically in FIG. 43 and controlled by a control processor. The pump provides a maximum flow rate of 900 ml / min of water at a maximum pressure of 2.5 bar. Preferably, in normal use the pressure will be limited to 2 bar. The flow rate of water through the machine 201 may be controlled by the control processor at a maximum rate of flow rate of the pump by a cycle that chops the supply of electricity to the pump. Preferably, the pump can be run at any of the flow rates at the maximum rate of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 100%. The accuracy of the volume of pumped water is preferably + or-5%, so that the final volume of the beverage dispensed has an accuracy of + or-5%. A suitable pump is the Evolution EP8 pump produced by Ulka S.r.l. (Pavia, Italy). A volumetric flow sensor (not shown) is preferably provided in the flow line upstream or downstream of the water pump 230. Preferably, the volumetric flow sensor is a rotation sensor.

The water heater 225 is located inside the housing 210. The heater 225 has an output of 1550 W and can heat the water received from the water pump 230 from a starting temperature of approximately 20 ° C. to an operating temperature of about 85 ° C. in one minute. Preferably, the delay time between the end of the dispensing cycle and the time at which the heater 225 can begin the subsequent dispensing cycle is less than 10 seconds. The heater maintains the selected temperature within + or-2 ° C during the dispensing cycle. As described below, water for the dispensing cycle may be delivered to the cartridge head 250 at 83 ° C to 93 ° C. The heater 225 can quickly adjust the delivery temperature from a nominal water temperature of 85 ° C. to 83 ° C. or 93 ° C. The heater 225 includes an over-temperature cut-off to stop the heater if the temperature exceeds 98 ° C. Water output from the heater 225 is transferred to the cartridge head 250 and the cartridge 1 by the three-way valve. If the pressure of the flowing water can be accommodated, the water passes through the cartridge 1. If the pressure is lower or higher than the preset limit, the water is diverted into the solution receiver receptacle 270 by a three-way valve.

The air compressor 235 is operatively connected to the cartridge head 250 by a one-way valve and controlled by a control processor. Air compressor 235 provides a maximum flow rate of 500 ml / min at 1.0 bar. In use, a working volume of 35 ml is pressurized to 2.0 bar. Preferably, the air compressor 235 can produce two flow rates: high speed (maximum) flow rate and low flow rate.

The control processor of the beverage preparation machine 201 includes a processing module and a memory. The control processor is operatively connected to and control the operation of the water heater 225, the water pump 230, the air compressor 235 and the user interface 240.

The memory of the control processor includes one or more variables for one or more operating parameters for the beverage preparation machine 201. In the illustrated embodiment, the operating parameters include the temperature of the water passing through the beverage cartridge 1 during the operating stage, the rate of filling of the beverage cartridge 1, the presence of a soak stage, the total dispense volume of the beverage, the discharge stage. Flow rate of water in the process, and flow rate and duration of the purification step.

Variables for operating parameters are stored in memory. The cartridge 1 comprises a code on or within the cartridge 1 indicative of operating parameters required for optimal dispensing of the beverage in the cartridge 1. The code is in binary format and includes a plurality of data bits corresponding to variables stored in the control processor memory. Table 3 illustrates how 13 bits of data can be used to represent the necessary variables for the operating parameters as described above.

TABLE 3

Code on or within cartridge 1 will typically include one or more spare data bits for error checking. In one example, a 16 bit code is provided. For example, by using the variables listed in Table 3, the cartridge 1 containing the code "1000100011110" will have the following operating variables.

Water temperature of 10 83 ℃

Fast filling by 00 soaking

1000 150 ml dispensed beverage volume

111 flow rate is 100%

10 High Speed Air Flow Purification / Short Run

Therefore, unlike the previous beverage preparation machine, the memory of the control processor does not store operating instructions for the beverage cartridge based on the cartridge type, i.e., instructions for the coffee cartridge, instructions for the chocolate cartridge, instructions for the tea cartridge, and the like. Instead, the memory of the control processor stores variables that adjust the individual operating parameters of the dispensing cycle. This has many advantages. First, a higher degree of control over the dispensing period can be implemented. For example, rather different operating parameters may be used for coffee of different grades or blends than using the same parameters for all coffee types. Conventional coding interpretation methods that store instructions by cartridge type rather than individual parameters are not suitable for subtle differences in distribution cycles for similar beverage types because they quickly consume available storage space in the coding medium and control processor. . Secondly, the coding method of the present invention uses a new beverage cartridge type, even if the operating parameters for the dispensing cycle for the new beverage cartridge 1 are determined after the beverage preparation machine 201 is sold. It can be used in the preparation machine. This is because the control processor of the beverage preparation machine 201 does not need to recognize that the beverage is a new type. Rather, the operating parameters of the dispensing cycle are set without referring directly to the beverage type. Therefore, the coding method of the present invention provides good post compatibility of the beverage preparation machine for the new beverage type. In contrast, for conventional machines, the manufacturer restricts the distribution of new beverage types, using one of the existing dispensing cycles determined by the machines sold.

The cartridge head 250 is shown in FIGS. 39-42. The cartridge holder 251 of the cartridge head 250 is a pivotable cartridge positioned between a fixed lower portion 255, a rotatable upper portion 256 and a fixed lower portion 255 and a rotatable upper portion 256. It includes a mounting portion (257). The upper portion 256, lower portion 255 and cartridge mount 257 are rotated about a common hinge axis 258. 39-42 show cartridge holder 251 with some components of machine 201 omitted for clarity.

The rotatable upper portion 256 and pivotable cartridge mount 257 are moved relative to the fixed lower portion 255 by the clamping mechanism 280. Clamping mechanism 280 includes a clamping lever having first and second members or portions 281, 282. The first portion 281 of the clamping lever includes a U-shaped arm pivotally mounted to the upper portion 256 at two first pivot points 283 on each side of the cartridge holder 251.

The second portion of the clamping lever is two over-centre on each side of the cartridge, each pivotably mounted to the upper portion 256 at the second pivot point 285 located on the hinge axis 258. Including an arm 282, couples the upper portion 256 to the fixed lower portion 255. Each eccentric arm 282 is a reciprocating member comprising a cylinder 282a, a stem 282b, and an elastic sleeve 282c. Cylinder 282a has an internal bore and is rotatably mounted at one end of hinge axis 258. The first end of stem 282b is slidably received in the bore of cylinder 282a. The opposite end of the stem 282b is rotatably mounted to the U-shaped arm 281 at the third pivot point 286. The third pivot point 286 can be freely moved relative to the upper portion 256 and the lower portion 255 without being connected. Elastic sleeve 282c is externally mounted on stem 282b and extends between the abutment surfaces on cylinder 282a and stem 282b in use. The elastic sleeve 282c regulates the short axis of the eccentric arm 282 but deflects the eccentric arm 282 into an extended shape. Therefore, movement of the third pivot point 286 towards and away from the hinge axis 258 is made possible by the relative movement of the stem 282b in the cylinder 282a. Elastic sleeve 282c is preferably formed from silicone. Although the illustrated embodiment uses two eccentric arms 282, it will be apparent that only one eccentric arm 282 can form the closure mechanism.

U-shaped arms 281 extend around the front of cartridge holder 251 and include two downwards on each side of cartridge holder 251, each comprising a cam surface 288 facing hinge axis 258. And a hook member 287 suspended by the hook. The fixed lower portion 255 of the cartridge holder 251 includes two bosses (located on each side of the lower portion 255 at or near the front edge 260 generally aligned with the hook member 287). 259) or indentations are provided.

As shown in Figure 39, the U-shaped arm 281 is formed from a one-piece plastic molded article that includes an ergonomic hand grip and hook member 287 integral with the arm.

The cartridge mounting portion 257 is rotatably mounted between the upper and lower portions 255 and 256 of the cartridge holder 251. The mounting portion 257 is provided with a substantially circular recess 290 for receiving the beverage cartridge 1 in use. The recess 290 includes an irregularity 291 that serves to receive the handle portion 24 of the beverage cartridge 1 and also prevent rotation of the beverage cartridge 1 in the cartridge holder 251. The cartridge mounting portion 257 has the cartridge mounting portion 257 deflected from contact with the fixed lower portion 255 in the open position as shown in Fig. 41 so that the cartridge mounting portion 257 has its outlet and inlet punching members 254, 253. Protrude relative to the fixed lower portion 255 so as to move away from contact. The cartridge mounting portion 257 is provided with an opening 292 for accommodating the inlet and outlet perforators 253 and 254 and the head 300 of the cartridge recognition means 252 when the cartridge mounting portion 257 is moved to the closed position. do.

The upper portion 255 is a circular observation in a generally circular body 310 housing where the consumer can see the beverage cartridge 1 during the dispensing cycle and also can check whether the cartridge 1 is mounted in the machine 201. Window 312. Observation window 312 is cup-shaped with downward rim 311. The viewing window 312 can be moved axially relative to the body 310 of the upper portion 255. One arrangement that can achieve relative movement is to provide similar resilient means, such as a wave spring (not shown) or a rubber ring, located between the viewing window 312 and the circular body 310. In an alternative arrangement, a series of helical compression springs (not shown) are provided to extend between the viewing window 312 and the body 310. In both cases, the resilient means causes the viewing window 312 to move axially relative to the circular body 310 to a lesser extent.

When the cartridge holder 251 is in the closed position, the viewing window 312 is supported against the beverage cartridge 1 and deflects it against the lower portion 256. In one arrangement, the rim 311 of the viewing window contacts and supports the flange 35 of the beverage cartridge. At the same time, the window 312 is in contact with the closed top 11 of the cartridge 1. In an alternative arrangement, only the viewing window 312 is in contact with the closed top 11 of the cartridge 1, and there is no supporting contact between the rim 311 and the flange 35. The pressure applied by the rim 311 on the flange 35 and / or the window 312 on the closed top 11 ensures a fluid tight seal between the cartridge 1 and the cartridge holder 251.

The lower portion 255 comprises inlet and outlet perforators 253 and 254 and the head 300 of the cartridge recognition means 252. The inlet perforator 253 comprises a hollow needled tube 260 with a sharp end 261 for perforating the laminate 5 of the beverage cartridge 1 in use. Inlet perforator 253 is in fluid communication with water conduit 262 as shown in FIG. 42, passing through lower portion 255, and connected to outlet conduit 263 of water heater 225. The outlet perforator 254 is of a type similar to the outlet perforator described in Applicants' European patents EP 0 389 141 and EP 0 334 572, and has an open end having a circular or D-shaped cross section with dimensions larger than the outlet 43. And a shaped cylinder 264. The arcuate portion 265 of the upper end of the outlet perforator 254 is serrated to perforate and eventually cut the laminate of the beverage cartridge 1. The remaining part of the upper part is cut back in the longitudinal direction of the cylinder at least at the base of the teeth 266 of the serrated part to fold away or pull the cut laminate 5 through the outlet opening before the beverage is dispensed. The outlet perforator 254 drills the laminate 5 out of the outlet 43 and between the outlet 43 of the dispensing funnel 40 and the outer wall 42 when the cartridge mount 257 is in the closed position. It is placed in an annular shape. The outlet perforator 254 folds the laminate 105 annularly. In this way, the outlet perforator 254 and the cut laminate 105 are retained from the path of the beverage being discharged.

The outlet perforator 254 is surrounded by a ledge 254a that protrudes 0.5 mm relative to its periphery.

Advantageously, the outlet perforator 254 can be removed from the lower portion 255, for example, to be thoroughly cleaned in a dish washer. The removable outlet perforator 254 is received in a recess 267 in the lower portion 255 in which it is disposed. Inlet perforator 253 and / or outlet perforator 254 may be made from a metal or plastic material, such as stainless steel. Advantageously, the use of plastic cutting elements is made possible by the use of laminates which can form or cut holes by nonmetallic materials. As a result, the perforators 253 and 254 can be made less sharp in order to lower the risk of injuring the consumer. In addition, the plastic perforated element does not corrode. The inlet drill 253 and the outlet drill 254 are formed as a single unitary unit that can be removed from the lower portion 255.

In use, the upper portion 256 of the cartridge holder 251 interacts with the cartridge mount 257 and the lower member 255 fixed substantially horizontally from an open position oriented vertically or vertically as shown in FIG. It may be moved to a closed position oriented to engage. The upper portion 256 is moved from the open position to the closed position by the operation of the clamping lever. In order to close the upper member 256, the user holds the clamping lever by the U-shaped arm 281 and pulls it downwards. As a result, the upper portion 256 first brings the rim 311 of the viewing window 312 into contact with the flange 35 of the beverage cartridge 1 in the cartridge mount 257 and / or the window 312 itself. Rotate to contact the closed top 11 of the cartridge 1. Subsequent rotation of the upper portion 256 causes the upper portion 256 and the cartridge mount 257 to rotate downwards in contact with the lower portion 255. By further rotation of the U-shaped arm 281, the U-shaped arm 281 is rotated relative to the upper portion 256 and the lower portion 255 such that the hook member 287 of the upper portion 256 causes the cam surface. Engage 288 with boss 259 in lower portion 255 with 288 placed over boss 259. During the last stage of rotation, the cartridge 1 is compressed between the cartridge mount 257 and the viewing window 312. As a result, the viewing window 312 is axially moved relative to the circular body 310 of the upper portion 256 against the deflection of the corrugated or helical spring. This movement ensures a tolerance in the beverage cartridge 1 and the beverage preparation machine and ensures that the amount of compressive force applied to the cartridge is maintained within an acceptable range. The clamping force of the mechanism, relaxed by the action of the corrugated or helical spring, ensures the clamping pressure on the cartridge. In the case of the arrangement in which the support pressure is applied to both the top 11 and the flange 35 of the cartridge 1, it has been found that a pressure of 130 to 280 N is required. Preferably, the force is approximately 200 N. Forces below about 130 N do not provide adequate sealing, while forces above about 280 N cause plastic breakage of the components of the cartridge 1. In the case of the arrangement in which the support pressure is applied only to the closed top 11 of the cartridge 1, it has been found that a pressure of 50 N to 280 N is required. It should be noted that low pressure levels are possible in this arrangement without adversely affecting the sealing of the cartridge 1. During closure of the cartridge head, the laminate 5 of the cartridge 1 is tensioned as it comes into contact with the ridge 254a surrounding the outlet perforator 254, so that the distal end of the outer tube 42 of the cylindrical funnel is flanged 35 The laminate 5 bends out of plane as it moves upwards by 0.5 mm. This movement also ensures that most of the compressive force applied to the cartridge acts through the central area of the cartridge 1 via the load bearing inner member 3. Therefore, in the closed position, the cartridge 1 can be clamped around the flange 35 by the rim 311 of the viewing window 312, and the inner member is brought into contact by the viewing window 312 and the ridge 254a. It is always firmly clamped between the outer tube 42 of (3) and the closed top 11 of the cartridge. This clamping force helps to prevent breakage of the cartridge 1 during pressurization, and also ensures that the inner member 3 and the outer member 2 are completely disposed relative to each other and that all inner passages and openings are thus in the course of the inner pressurization. To ensure that they remain at their intended dimensions.

A virtual reference line can be drawn between the first and second pivot points 283, 285 of the cartridge holder 251. As can be seen in Figure 41, in the open position, the second pivot point 286 is located on the side of the baseline closest to the fixed lower portion 255. As the upper portion 256 reaches the closed position, the third pivot point 286 of the clamping lever is most likely from the fixed lower portion 255 through the reference line where the first and second pivot points 283 and 285 meet. Pass to the far side of the distant line. As a result, the U-shaped arm 281 is "snapped through" from the first stable position to the second stable position. The snap passing action is controlled by the shortening of the eccentric arm 282 and the compression of the subsequent elastic sleeve 282c. Once the third pivot point 286 passes the imaginary baseline, recovery of the elastic sleeve 282c acts such that movement of the third pivot point 286 continues away from the imaginary baseline. Therefore, the clamping lever becomes unstable at the point where the lever is stable in the open or closed position but when the third pivot point 286 lies on the imaginary baseline where the first and second pivot points 283 and 285 meet. Has double stable operation. Therefore, the snap passing action of the clamping lever is such that the snap passing action of the U-shaped arm 281 and the second arm 284 at the final stage of rotation of the clamping lever is such that the hook member 287 is firmly engaged with the boss 259. It provides an active closing mechanism leading to a clear closing action that is pressurized by the pressure. In addition, the elastic sleeve 282c compresses the third pivot point 286 to sufficiently move the sleeve 282c to align with the baseline where the first and second pivot points 283 and 285 meet. Since minimal force is required, it provides resistance to reopening of the upper portion 256. Advantageously, the mutual engagement of the hook member 287 and the boss 259 prevents separation of the hook member 287 and the boss 259 by means other than rotation of the clamping lever. This is useful to prevent the cartridge head 250 from opening during operation when the cartridge head 250 is subjected to internal pressurization.

The purpose of the cartridge recognition means 252 is to enable the machine 201 to recognize the type of beverage cartridge 1 inserted and to adjust one or more operating parameters accordingly. In a typical embodiment, the cartridge recognition means 252 comprises an optical barcode reader for reading the printed barcode 320 provided on the laminate 5 of the beverage cartridge 1 as shown in FIG. Bar code 320 is formed from a plurality of bar codes of contrasting colors. Preferably, the bar is black with a white background to maximize the contrast. Bar code 320 need not conform to published standards, but standard formats for bar codes such as EAN-13, UPC-A or Interleaf 2 of 5 can be used. The optical barcode reader includes one or more LEDs 321 for illuminating the barcode 320, a focus lens 322 for acquiring an image of the barcode, and a charge coupled device (CCD) for generating an electrical signal representing the acquired image ( 323), and support circuitry for LEDs and CCDs. The space in the lower part for accommodating the barcode reader is limited. Mirror or mirrors 324 may be used to reflect light from the LED 321 to a focusing lens that is not located in the lower portion 255. A schematic arrangement is shown in FIGS. 44A and 44B. The lower portion 255 includes an opening 326 having the same size as the barcode 320 on the beverage cartridge 1. In use, the generated electrical signal is decoded by the signal processing software and the result is passed to the control processor. The software can recognize whether an error is included in the reading of the barcode. Bar code 320 may be rescanned several times before an error message is provided to the consumer. If the machine 201 is unable to read the bar code, the consumer can use the manual operation mode to allow the beverage cartridge 1 to dispense the beverage.

The cartridge head 250 also includes a cartridge sensor that detects whether a cartridge is present in the cartridge holder 251.

The cartridge head 250 also includes a lock sensor that detects whether the cartridge holder 251 is properly closed. Preferably, the locking sensor comprises a micro switch that is activated when the cartridge holder 251 is closed and locked. Preferably, the cartridge sensor and the locking sensor are connected in series such that the output of both sensors is satisfactory, that is, the cartridge is present and the instrument is locked before the dispensing cycle begins.

The cartridge mount 257 may be removed from the cartridge head 250 to facilitate cleaning. Preferably, a micro switch or other interlock is provided to prevent operation of the machine if the cartridge mount 257 is not replaced.

Operation of the machine 201 includes insertion of the beverage cartridge 10 into the cartridge head 250 and performs a dispensing cycle in which the beverage is dispensed and the cartridge 10 is removed from the machine.

Operation during use of the machine 201 is determined by software embedded in the control processor. The operation of a machine may be described in terms of "state", and the machine 201 will typically be in a particular state unless an accident occurs that changes the state, which is a step called state change.

Table 4 shows a state change table illustrating states and state changes for one embodiment of the beverage preparation machine 201.

TABLE 4

The following example describes a distribution period illustrating the use of state changes by the control processor.

It is assumed that the machine 201 is initially off and there is no cartridge 1 inserted in the cartridge head 250. When the machine 201 is turned on, the control processor is in state 1. The water heater 225 is turned on. When the temperature reaches 85 ° C., the control processor changes to state 2. At any time during states 1 and 2, if the cartridge holder 251 is closed, the lock sensor will be activated to send a signal to the control processor indicating that the cartridge holder 251 is properly closed. The control processor then signals the cartridge sensor by sending a 'readpod' command. The cartridge sensor sends a signal back to the control processor indicating whether the cartridge is in place within the cartridge holder 251. If there is no cartridge, the control processor changes to state 3, which remains ready until the cartridge holder 251 is reopened at the point when the control processor changes back to state 2. If there is a cartridge, in state 2, the control processor changes to state 4, and operation starts automatically. During states 4 to 9, the water temperature is controlled in the background to remain within the required tolerance range of the required temperature set by the operating parameter set by the barcode on the beverage cartridge 1. Once the discharge phase of the dispense is complete, air purification commences in state 8. When the air purification is complete, the operating cycle is complete and the machine enters standby mode in state 10. During operation, if an error occurs, the processor changes to state 11. If the low water level is detected, the processor changes to state 12.

To insert the cartridge 1, the cartridge holder 251 is opened as described above to expose the cartridge mounting portion 257. Thereafter, the cartridge 1 is disposed on the cartridge mounting portion 257 housed in the recess 290 such that the handle 24 of the cartridge is positioned in the irregular portion 291. The optical or magnetic barcode 320 of the cartridge 1 is oriented just above the opening 326 in the cartridge mount 257. Thereafter, the cartridge holder 251 is closed by the operation of the clamping lever as described above. During closure, inlet and outlet perforators 253 and 254 drill the laminate 5 of cartridge 1 to form cartridge inlet 121 and outlet 122. As described above, the laminate 5 cut by the outlet perforator 254 is folded in an annulus surrounding the outlet 43. When closed, the cartridge holder 251 moves the cartridge 1 between the cartridge mount 257 and the upper portion 256 and / or to form a fluid tight seal that has sufficient integrity to withstand the pressure generated during the dispensing cycle. It is held around the rim 35 between the window 311 and the top 11 of the cartridge 1.

To initiate the activation cycle, the consumer activates the start / stop button 241.

The operating cycle includes a cartridge recognition step and an ejection cycle.

Cartridge recognition is performed by the optical cartridge recognition means 252 as described above, assuming that inputs from the cartridge sensor and the locking sensor are satisfactory. Once the barcode 320 is decoded, the operating parameters of the machine 201 are adjusted by the control processor. Thereafter, the discharge cycle is automatically started.

The discharge cycle has four main stages, although not all are used for all beverage types.

(i) Pre-wet

(ii) Pause

(iii) Extract / Mixing

(iv) purge

In the pre-wetting step, the cartridge 1 is filled with water from the water storage tank 220 by the water pump 230. The beverage component 200 in the filtration chamber 130 is wetted by the filling with water. The filling can be carried out at a "high speed" flow rate of 600 ml / min or a "low speed" flow rate of 325 ml / min. Slow filling rates are particularly useful for cartridges containing viscous liquid beverage ingredients that require some dilution before the beverage ingredients are pumped at higher volume flow rates. The volume of water jetted into the cartridge 1 is selected to ensure that no water or beverage is released from the cartridge outlet 122 during this step.

The stop step allows the beverage component 200 to be immersed by the water squirted during the pre-wetting step for a preset period of time. Both prewetting and soaking steps are known to increase the yield that can be extracted from the beverage ingredients 200 and to improve the final aroma of the beverage. Pre-wetting and soaking liquids are used especially for roasted and ground coffee of the beverage component.

In the extraction / mixing step, water passes through the cartridge 1 to prepare a beverage from the beverage component 200. The temperature of the water is determined by the control processor sending a command to the water heater 225 to heat the water passing from the water tank 220 to the cartridge head 250. Water enters the lower portion 255 of the cartridge holder 251 through the conduit 262 via the inlet valve and the inlet perforator 253 into the inlet chamber 126 of the beverage cartridge 1. Extraction and / or mixing and subsequent dispensing of the beverage from the beverage cartridge 1 are as described above in connection with the form of the beverage cartridge 1.

Air purification involves blowing pressurized air through the beverage preparation machine and beverage cartridge 1 to ensure that all beverages have been dispensed and the flow path has been cleaned to prepare for dispensing of other beverages. Air purification does not begin immediately at the end of the extraction / mixing step to allow most fluid to be washed in the flow path. This prevents an unacceptable sudden rise in internal pressure by initiation of air purification.

In normal operation, the user manually stops the machine 201 by operating the start / stop button 241.

When the operation cycle is completed, the consumer removes the cartridge 1 by opening the cartridge holder 251 and manually removing and placing the cartridge. Alternatively, the machine 201 may be provided with an automatic ejection mechanism for automatically removing the cartridge upon opening the cartridge holder 251.

The delivery time of the beverage using the machine 201 and the cartridge 1 is typically 10 to 120 seconds, preferably 30 to 40 seconds for chocolate and 5 to 120 seconds for chocolate, preferably roasted and ground coffee. Is 10 to 20 seconds, and 5 to 120 seconds for milk, preferably 10 to 20 seconds.

The machine 201 also advantageously includes a memory that stores information about the type of beverage dispensed by the user and operatively communicates with a control processor. Thereafter, the operating cycle of the machine 201 can be adjusted for the next cartridge 1. This is particularly advantageous when two or more beverage cartridges 1 are used successively to prepare a beverage. For example, the coffee cartridge may be followed by a milk cartridge to prepare a cappuccino beverage. Alternatively, the chocolate cartridge may be used subsequently to a milk cartridge to prepare a cream hot chocolate beverage. By using a memory to store information about the first beverage dispensed, the manner of dispensing the second cartridge, ie the milk cartridge, can be changed to achieve the optimum beverage. In the above example, the milk dispensed for hot chocolate may typically be less diluted than the milk added to the coffee. In addition, the milk dispensed for the chocolate may be dispensed at a slower flow rate to reduce the degree of foaming of the beverage. Various combinations of cartridges are possible and the operating parameters will be apparent to those skilled in the art. In addition, a memory may be used that enables the machine 201 to "forecast" the type of beverage the user wishes to dispense next. For example, if a user primarily drinks one beverage type, the machine may instruct the water heater to maintain an optimal temperature for this beverage type.

Claims (36)

A closing mechanism for the beverage preparation machine 201, comprising a fixed lower portion 255 and an upper portion 256 rotatable relative to the lower portion, The upper portion may be moved from an open position in which the upper portion is separated from the lower portion to a closed position in which the upper portion engages the lower portion, The closing mechanism further comprises a clamping lever 280 operable to hold the upper portion in the closed position, The clamping lever has a first member 281 pivotably connected to the upper portion 256 at the first pivot portion 283 and a second member having a first end pivotable about the second pivot portion 285. (282), An end of the first member 281 and a second end of the second member 282 are pivotally connected together at the third pivot portion 286 such that the clamping levers have stable first and second positions, Closing mechanism in which the clamping lever is stably moved from the first position to the second position upon operation of the clamping lever for moving the upper portion from the open position to the closed position. The closing mechanism of claim 1, wherein the clamping lever (280) comprises at least one hook member (287) for engaging the indent (259) on the lower portion (255). 3. The method of claim 1, wherein in a stable first position, the third pivot portion 286 lies on a first side of a reference line connecting the first pivot point 283 and the second pivot point 285. Closure mechanism. 4. The closure mechanism of claim 3 wherein in a stable second position, the third pivot portion (286) lies on a second side of the reference line connecting the first pivot point (283) and the second pivot point (285). 5. The closure mechanism of claim 3 or 4, wherein the first side of the baseline is closest to the fixed lower portion (255) and the second side of the baseline is farthest from the fixed lower portion (255). Closing mechanism according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first end of the second member (282) is pivotally connected to the lower portion (255). Closing mechanism according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second member (282) comprises a reciprocating member. 8. The closure mechanism of claim 7, wherein the reciprocating member comprises a cylinder (282a), a stem (282b) received within the cylinder, and an elastic sleeve (282c) for biasing the stem into an extended shape. 9. The closure mechanism of claim 8 wherein the movement of the clamping lever (280) from the first stable position to the second stable position is controlled by the deformation of the elastic sleeve (282c). The closure mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the first member of the clamping lever comprises a U-shaped arm extending around the front face of the beverage preparation machine. The closure mechanism according to claim 1, wherein the clamping mechanism comprises two second members, one on each side of the beverage preparation machine. The closure mechanism of claim 1, wherein the closure mechanism further comprises a cartridge holder interposed between the lower portion and the upper portion and rotatable relative to the lower portion and the upper portion. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the rotation of the upper portion towards the lower portion causes the upper portion to engage the cartridge holder and the cartridge holder to contact the lower portion, while at the same time the inlet and outlet drilling means provided in the lower portion are used in the cartridge. A closing mechanism for puncturing the cartridge housed in the holder. A closing mechanism for the beverage preparation machine 201, comprising a lower portion 255 and an upper portion 256, The upper part and the lower part are movable relative to each other from an open position in which the beverage cartridge 1 can be received in the closing mechanism to a closed position in which the beverage cartridge is held fixed between the upper and lower parts, In the closed position, the closing mechanism is in contact with the upper and lower surfaces of the beverage cartridge at or near the center of the beverage cartridge to apply a compressive force of greater than 50 N. The closure mechanism of claim 14, wherein the closure mechanism applies a compressive force of greater than 130 N. 16. The closure mechanism of claim 14, wherein the closure mechanism applies a compression force of approximately 200 N. 16. The closure mechanism according to claim 14, wherein the closure mechanism is in contact with the top surface of the beverage cartridge. 18. The closure mechanism according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the closure mechanism also contacts the peripheral flange (35) of the beverage cartridge. 19. The closing mechanism according to any one of claims 14 to 18, further comprising an elastic member in contact with at least a portion of the upper surface (11) of the beverage cartridge. 20. The closing mechanism of claim 19, wherein the elastic member is a spring member. 21. The closure mechanism of claim 20 wherein the spring member is a viewing window (312). 22. The closure mechanism according to any one of claims 14 to 21, wherein the lower portion (255) comprises a protruding portion (254a) in contact with the central portion of the lower surface of the beverage cartridge. 23. A closure mechanism according to any one of claims 14 to 22 wherein the lower portion is fixed and the upper portion is rotatable relative to the lower portion from an open position to a closed position. 24. The closure mechanism of claim 23 further comprising a cartridge mount (257) interposed between the lower portion and the upper portion and rotatable relative to the lower portion and the upper portion for receiving a beverage cartridge in use. A beverage preparation comprising a fixed lower portion 255, an upper portion 256 rotatable relative to the lower portion, and a cartridge holder 257 interposed between the lower portion and the upper portion and rotatable relative to the lower portion and the upper portion A closing mechanism for the machine 201, The lower part comprises an inlet puncturing means 253 and an outlet puncturing means 254 for respectively forming an inlet and an outlet of the cartridge 1 housed in the cartridge holder in use, by rotation of the upper part towards the lower part. A closing mechanism engaging the cartridge with the upper portion and contacting the cartridge with the lower portion, and at the same time perforating the cartridge contained in the cartridge holder when the inlet and outlet drilling means are in use. 26. The closure mechanism of claim 25 wherein the upper portion (256) is movable between an open position for receiving the cartridge in the cartridge holder and a closed position where the cartridge holder is in contact with the lower portion. 27. The closure mechanism of claim 26 wherein in the open position the upper portion (256) is oriented substantially vertically. 28. A closure mechanism according to claim 26 or 27, in the closed position, the upper portion (256) is oriented horizontally. 29. The closure mechanism according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the cartridge holder (257) comprises a recess (290) for receiving the cartridge. 30. The closure mechanism of claim 29, wherein the recess (290) comprises an irregular portion (291) for preventing rotation of the cartridge received in the recess. 31. The cartridge holder 257 according to any one of claims 25 to 30, wherein the cartridge holder 257 has a fixed lower portion 256 such that the cartridge holder is separated from the lower portion in an open position where the upper portion is separated from the lower portion and the cartridge holder. Closure mechanism biased relative to). 32. The closing mechanism according to claim 31, wherein in the open position, the cartridge holder (257) is separated from the inlet drilling means (253) and the outlet drilling means (254). A first puncture element 253 for forming an inlet in the cartridge 1 housed in the beverage preparation machine 201 in use and a second puncture element 254 for forming an outlet in the cartridge in use. In the beverage preparation machine 201 for preparing a beverage from the cartridge 1 containing the above beverage ingredients, Beverage dispensing machine (201), characterized in that the first and second puncturing elements (253, 254) are formed as a single removable unit. 34. The apparatus of claim 33, further comprising a fixed lower portion 255 and an upper portion 256 rotatable relative to the lower portion, the upper portion from which the upper portion is to receive the cartridge 1 from the lower portion. A beverage preparation machine (201), wherein the removable unit can be moved from an open position to a closed position where the upper portion engages with the lower portion, the removable unit being mounted in a fixed lower portion in use. 35. A beverage preparation machine (201) according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the inlet perforator (253) and the outlet perforator (254) are oriented perpendicular and parallel to each other. 36. A beverage preparation machine according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the inlet perforator (253) and the outlet perforator (254) are made of plastic material.