RU2783934C2 - Portion dispenser for dispensing portion beverage components - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: beverage making.

SUBSTANCE: invention relates to a portion dispenser for dispensing beverage components from a replaceable cassette. The dispenser contains a frame with socket (5) for attachment of replaceable cassette (3), dispensing hole (6) near socket (5), a size of which allows for dispensing beverage components from the replaceable cassette separately under the action of gravity, movable mechanism assembly (16) containing movable mechanism (19) and movable mechanism case (20). Movable mechanism (19) is made with the possibility of supply to a dispensing chamber for dispensing at least one beverage component from it and for its movement to a dispensing area. Movable mechanism assembly (16) is made with the possibility of connection to replaceable cassette (3), and it contains a means for opening the replaceable cassette to provide dispensing the beverage component to the dispensing chamber, and then reclosing the replaceable cassette. Movable mechanism (19) is placed in the axial direction relatively to dispensing hole (6) and inside movable mechanism case (20) for movement between an extended position, in which the movable mechanism is at dispensing hole (6) or near it, to rest against at least one portion beverage component, and a retracted position, in which the dispensing chamber is limited depending on a distance, for which the movable mechanism is retracted relatively to dispensing hole (6) for reception of at least one single beverage component dispensed from the cassette. In the second implementation of the invention, movable mechanism (19) is placed in a transverse direction relatively to dispensing hole (6) and inside movable mechanism case (20). A system of a portion dispenser and a device for beverage making are also proposed.

EFFECT: creation of a simple dispenser device and a system for accurate and reliable dispensing a beverage ingredient.

15 cl, 27 dwg

Description

The technical field to which the invention belongs

The invention relates to the storage and dispensing of portioned beverage components for preparing beverages using such portioned beverage components in a beverage preparation device such as a coffee machine for making coffee for home or professional use.

State of the art

It is known that coffee is sold in sealed packages to prevent its contact with air, which can cause rapid oxidation and loss of aromas. The field of application of sealed capsules for the preparation of beverages is rapidly developing, since in this case it is possible to prevent the oxidation of each serving of coffee thanks to a suitable gas-tight functional packaging until the coffee is extracted in a special coffee machine.

For example, patents EP0512468 and EP0512470, respectively, propose a sealed beverage capsule and a method for extracting a beverage from such a capsule.

US8178139 and US8210097, respectively, propose a spherical capsule containing an accumulation of compressed aggregate to be infused and an air and water tight packaging shell, as well as a machine for automatically preparing and dispensing a drink from such a sealed capsule by puncturing the packaging shell. In particular, the capsules are placed in a container above the infusion chamber and are taken out individually by means of a rear guide fork which forms part of the infusion chamber.

Patent FR2879175 proposes a coffee portion for automatic beverage preparation and dispensing machines with an infusion chamber and a filling position for a given amount of ground coffee in the infusion chamber. A portion of coffee can be pressed from roasted and ground coffee to a rounded outer shape in the form of a substantially spherical lump. The coffee serving further includes a sheath of at least one layer or film of porous material surrounding the agglomeration of the coffee mixture.

Overall, portion pack solutions that prevent oxidation of the coffee ingredient offer many benefits such as freshness, coffee quality through precise dosing and controlled extraction. However, their production requires significant costs, usually more packaging material and a possibly complex packaging recycling chain.

Alternative embodiments of dosing solutions have been developed for dosing and dispensing beverage ingredient portions that are individually sensitive to oxidation but are typically stored in a container in which the oxygen level is reduced by sealing the protective packaging and/or by connecting the container to a vacuum source or shielding gas when connecting the container to the dosing device.

WO2014135677 proposes a device for controlled dispensing of capsules containing beverage ingredients, which device includes a dispensing outlet for selective dispensing of capsules and an isolated distribution area with a capsule movement system and an inert gas purge in the capsule dispensing chamber.

Patent EP1876936 relates to a sealed coffee dispenser with a rigid container provided with a lid and a discharge nozzle which is closed by a closing means. The dispenser includes means configured to dispense product from a container while reducing storage volume.

EP1879487 relates to the dispensing of coffee powder from a dispenser including a storage container, a closing means and a vacuum or inert gas supply to remove oxygen from the dispensing chamber.

The disadvantages of existing solutions with a special device for creating a vacuum or supplying an inert gas are the high level of system complexity and expensive operation. In addition, solutions for dispensing coffee ingredients, in particular bulk coffee powder, have problems with dosing accuracy and lack of cleanliness, since the powder tends to spill over the surfaces of the dispenser and the beverage preparation machine.

Therefore, there is a demand for a solution with which it is possible to obtain an inexpensive, rational and simple dispenser device and system for accurately and reliably dispensing a beverage ingredient, such as roasted and ground coffee, for preparing a beverage, while maintaining the maximum freshness of the product ingredient and reducing the consumption of packaging material.

The purpose of the present invention is to solve the problem of the prior art described above. In addition, the invention is directed to solving additional problems listed in the description.

Disclosure of invention

The invention relates to a portion dispenser for dispensing portioned beverage components (hereinafter referred to as "drink components") from a replaceable cassette, comprising:

- a frame with a socket for attaching a removable cassette;

- a dispensing opening next to the connection socket, the size of which allows the components of the drink to be dispensed from the cassette individually under the action of gravity;

- the node of the movable mechanism containing the movable mechanism and the housing of the movable mechanism, inside which is placed the movable mechanism for movement in it;

wherein the movable mechanism assembly is configured to supply at least one beverage component to the dispensing chamber for dispensing and to move to the dispensing area,

wherein the movable mechanism assembly is operable to be coupled to the replaceable cassette and includes means for opening the replaceable cassette to allow the beverage component to be dispensed into the dispensing chamber and then reclosing the replaceable cassette.

In particular, the movable mechanism assembly is configured to seal against the replaceable cassette and includes means for opening the replaceable cassette to allow the beverage component to be dispensed into the dispensing chamber and then reclosing the replaceable cassette.

The terms "hermetic seal" refers to a seal designed to limit and preferably prevent any significant ingress of air from the environment into the joint area at the time of opening and reclosing the cartridge. Such a hermetic connection is preferred to preserve/protect the environment of the beverage component from external influences, for example by using a vacuum or an oxygen-free inert gas.

In particular, and in a preferred embodiment of the solution, the slider is positioned axially with respect to the dispensing opening and within the slider housing to move between an extended position in which the slider is at or near the dispensing opening to abut against at least one portion component. drink, and a retracted position in which the dispensing chamber is at least partially limited by the movable mechanism and the movable mechanism housing depending on the distance at which the movable mechanism is retracted relative to the dispensing opening for receiving at least one, preferably single, beverage component dispensed from cassettes.

In an alternative embodiment, the solution proposes placing the slider transversely with respect to the dispensing opening and within the housing of the slider to move between an extended position in which the slider is at or near the dispensing opening to abut against at least one serving component of the beverage, and a retracted position, in which the dispensing chamber is at least partially limited by the movable mechanism and the movable mechanism housing depending on the distance that the movable mechanism is retracted relative to the dispensing opening for receiving at least one, preferably single, beverage component dispensed from the cassette.

In a further alternative embodiment of the solution, an inclined placement of the movable mechanism with respect to the dispensing opening is proposed.

In accordance with the principle of the invention, it is possible to selectively dispense beverage components from a replaceable cassette using the device of the invention, while limiting and preferably preventing the penetration of ambient air into the interior of the cassette. In the retracted position of the movable mechanism, it is advantageous to be able to precisely adjust the volume in the dispensing chamber according to the size of the beverage component(s) depending on the stroke of the movable mechanism. In the extended position, the movable mechanism gently grasps the beverage component(s) to be delivered, and at the same time, mechanical impacts (for example, falling, impacts) on the beverage component(s) are reduced, with the possibility of preserving the beverage component(s) in the process. dispensing and ensuring the cleanliness of the device and the accuracy of dosing.

The frame attachment socket preferably comprises at least one tubular surface operable to connect to the replaceable cassette in a substantially vertical or inclined position of the replaceable cassette, thereby dispensing portioned components by gravity. In particular, the replaceable cassette comprises a tubular storage element; at least part of it is made with a size suitable for entering into the tubular part of the socket for connecting the dispenser or providing such an opportunity. The tubular storage element comprises a removable connecting element, for example an annular groove, configured to releasably connect the tubular storage element with a connecting element, for example, a snap-in elastically displaceable connector of the dispenser attachment socket. The removable connection element is preferably located in the connection part of the tubular storage element, which can fit into the corresponding tubular surface of the connection socket. The connecting element of the socket for connection may be located in the tubular surface.

The term "vertical or inclined position" means that the cassette is oriented so that its open end is located at the lowest level, which means that portioned components are dispensed through it under the action of gravity.

The attachment socket preferably includes at least one sealing element to provide a substantially gas-tight and/or water-tight connection between the cartridge and the dispensing port when interconnected.

The attachment socket preferably comprises at least one locking element configured to releasably and resiliently fix the replaceable cassette. For example, the locking member(s) may be a resilient snap-in connector configured to fit into an annular corresponding groove of the cartridge storage tubular member.

The portion dispenser is particularly suitable for connection to a refill cassette containing a tubular storage element that is initially sealed with a closure cap and its interior protected from the environment, for example by vacuum or an oxygen-free inert gas. The tubular storage element and the closure cap may be made of packaging material(s) providing an oxygen barrier, such as ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) or polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), or aluminum. In particular, prior to any first removal of the closure cap, the interior is preferably substantially free of oxygen. The possible level of residual oxygen should be such as to substantially maintain the unoxidized state of the roast and ground coffee for several days or weeks. The movable mechanism preferably includes at least one sealing member cooperating with the movable mechanism housing to prevent or at least reduce air exchange between the movable mechanism and the movable mechanism housing. The housing of the movable mechanism is additionally hermetically connected to the socket for attaching the frame by means of at least one sealing element.

Therefore, when connecting the replaceable cassette to the dispenser (i.e. with the connection socket and the movable mechanism) and placing the dispensing chamber in position to receive the beverage component by retracting the movable mechanism into the movable mechanism housing, there is no significant air ingress into the cassette from the outside distribution chamber. The only possible source of air ingress is the volume of the dispensing chamber itself when it communicates with the inside of the cassette when the movable mechanism is withdrawn. However, this volume remains as close as possible to the size of the selectively dispensed beverage component(s).

The plunger preferably includes an end portion capable of being connected to a closure cap that is releasably connected to the cassette storage tubular to move the piston between a retracted position and an extended position with the closure cap connected thereto. Therefore, the volume available to the beverage component in the dispensing chamber may be partially limited by the closure cap connected to the plunger in the retracted position of the plunger. The closure cap is preferably configured to hold the beverage component in a position under gravity, ie substantially horizontal (eg, less than 20 degrees from horizontal).

The invention is essentially based on the principle that it is possible to minimize gas exchange and/or moisture exchange between beverage components stored together in a package and ambient air when selectively dosing the beverage component(s). One aspect relies on the ability to repeatedly, reliably and automatically open to dispense and reseal the cassette using a portion product dispenser.

The opening and reclosing mechanism comprises a gripping element with an end part configured to be complementarily connected to the fixing element of the closing cap for removal from the tubular element of the cassette.

Faster removal of the closure cap is possible and proper adjustment of the portion dispenser is possible to allow the cassette to open to dispense the beverage component into a receptacle forming a sealed confined area of the portion dispenser (e.g., within a limited volume in which the portion component is captured prior to transfer to the dispensing area), and therefore, in such a region, the possible volume of oxygen that can penetrate into the cassette remains quite low. In addition, the risk of accidental or improper removal of the closure cap is prevented.

The movable mechanism with the closure cap attached to it preferably moves between a retracted position and an extended position. The size of the closure cap is preferably sized to fit, for example in a sliding motion, into the movable mechanism housing to define the dimensions of the dispensing chamber defined by the movable mechanism housing and the retracted position of the movable mechanism. In this case, the drink component can abut against the closing cap, which is connected to the movable mechanism.

The closure cap may have at least one sealing element configured to provide a seal within the movable mechanism housing. This may be required, for example, if no sealing element is provided between the movable mechanism and the movable mechanism housing.

In a further aspect, a movable mechanism assembly is movably mounted on the frame to move the dispensing chamber between a dispensing position in which the movable mechanism is axially positioned with respect to the dispensing opening and a dispensing position in which the movable mechanism is axially positioned with respect to the dispensing opening. in a frame.

The slider assembly is movable into the dispensing area in a direction that is preferably different from the direction of movement of the slider between the extended and retracted position in the slider housing. The movable mechanism assembly preferably moves under the action of a drive of the movable mechanism assembly connected to the frame.

Thus, movement of the selected beverage component(s) is accomplished by moving the movable mechanism assembly, while the dispensing chamber remains unchanged by retracting the movable mechanism into the movable mechanism housing.

In one mode, the dispensing orifice and the metering orifice may be axially parallel to allow easy movement of the movable mechanism body, such as pivoting, between two positions relative to the frame.

The movable mechanism housing additionally comprises a shutter (or is connected to it) configured to hermetically close the dispensing opening as the movable mechanism moves into the dispensing area by the movable mechanism housing. The closure is preferably a portion of the wall transverse to the dispensing port and the dispensing port and is movable with the movable mechanism housing between the dispensing port and the metering port to selectively close the dispensing port or the metering port as the movable mechanism housing exits the dispensing port or dosing hole. The shutter is preferably fixedly attached to the body of the movable mechanism or is integral with it.

In particular, at least one sealing element can be provided in the seat for connecting the frame for sealing contact with the closure or vice versa. Therefore, as the beverage component moves, isolation of the internal volume of the replaceable cassette from the surrounding air is maintained. For example, if there is a reduced content of residual air in the cassette, the level of such reduced content is unchanged even during the dispensing of the beverage component by the action of the movable mechanism.

The opening and reclosing mechanism further comprises a movable mechanism actuator configured to actuate the movable mechanism along an axial reciprocating motion path, most preferably along a combined axial and rotational motion path between a retracted position and an extended position.

The movable mechanism drive preferably comprises a drive element shaft connected to the motor directly or through a gear mechanism. The advantage is that the cap can be effectively controlled when opening and reclosing during the dispensing of the beverage component at high speed (ie, when removing to dispense the beverage component and reattaching to seal the cassette).

For loading the beverage component into the dispensing chamber, a movable mechanism is preferably placed axially relative to the dispensing opening and inside the movable mechanism housing to move under the action of the movable mechanism drive between a retracted position, in which the beverage component dispensed from the cassette enters the dispensing chamber, and an extended position, wherein the movable mechanism at least partially fills the dispensing chamber with preferably one beverage component.

In a preferred embodiment, a movable mechanism in the form of a round piston is used. However, other variants of the moving mechanism may be considered, such as an oval piston, ball or vane.

In the preferred mode, the movable mechanism moves simultaneously along an axial and rotational path along the longitudinal axis (for example, along the guide helical trajectory of the thread on the piston) under the action of the movable mechanism drive to unscrew the closure cap from the tubular element of the replaceable cassette and to subsequently screw the closure cap.

The movable mechanism assembly is preferably rotatably mounted relative to the frame.

In the first mode, the movable mechanism assembly is installed with the possibility of rotation relative to the frame along an axis parallel to the axis of the dispensing opening and/or the axis of the dispensing opening. In particular, the movable mechanism housing rotates in the frame about a substantially vertical axis. In this case, the metering opening is preferably located on the top wall of the frame.

In the second mode, the movable mechanism assembly is mounted for rotation relative to the frame along an axis perpendicular to the axis of the dispensing opening and/or the axis of the dispensing opening. The body of the movable mechanism may have a cylindrical shape that rotates, for example, about a substantially horizontal axis, in a frame containing a complementary cylindrical guide cavity. In this case, the shutter can be made in the form of a part of the cylindrical surface of the housing of the movable mechanism, which, when the latter rotates, closes the dispensing opening and/or the dosing opening. The dispensing opening may be located at an angle relative to the dispensing opening. Such an angular position of the dispensing opening may be from 20 to 180 degrees, preferably from 45 to 120 degrees with respect to the axis of the dispensing opening.

The drive of the movable mechanism assembly is preferably provided for moving the movable mechanism assembly between the position of dispensing the beverage component and the position of dispensing the beverage component. The drive unit of the movable mechanism is additionally configured to jointly drive the body of the movable mechanism, the movable mechanism and the drive of the movable mechanism as a whole. Such drive unit of the movable mechanism preferably includes an electric motor associated with the housing of the movable mechanism directly or through a rotating gear mechanism, which can be placed, for example, in the frame of the dispenser. Since the closure is preferably an elongated part of the movable mechanism housing, it can move with the movable mechanism housing without the need for an additional motor. This significantly simplifies the design of the dispenser and ensures reliable closure of the dispensing and dosing openings.

The invention also relates to a dispenser of portions of beverage components from a replaceable cassette, containing:

- a frame with a socket for attaching a removable cassette;

- a dispensing opening next to the connection socket, the size of which allows the components of the drink to be dispensed from the cassette individually under the action of gravity;

- the node of the movable mechanism containing the movable mechanism and the housing of the movable mechanism, inside which is placed the movable mechanism for movement in it;

wherein the movable mechanism assembly is configured to supply at least one beverage component to the dispensing chamber for dispensing and to move to the dispensing area,

wherein the movable mechanism assembly is configured to be tightly connected to the replaceable cassette and contains a means for opening the replaceable cassette to allow the beverage component to be dispensed into the dispensing chamber, and

wherein the device additionally comprises a mechanism for driving the movable mechanism unit with the possibility of moving between the dispensing position, in which the movable mechanism has an axial location with respect to the dispensing hole, and the dispensing position, in which the movable mechanism has an axial location with respect to the dispensing hole in the frame.

The movable mechanism is preferably configured to be actuated by driving the movable mechanism between a retracted position and an extended position, as described above.

The movable mechanism assembly is driven by the movable mechanism assembly drive as described above. The movable mechanism assembly drive is configured to move the movable mechanism assembly between two positions with the movable mechanism in the retracted position in the housing.

The control unit, which may be part of the dispenser or may be associated with it, is responsible for coordinating the drives of the movable mechanism and the drive of the movable mechanism assembly.

The means for opening the movable mechanism assembly is preferably also a means for reclosing the cartridge.

The opening means may preferably comprise an end part of the movable mechanism for releasably connecting with the closure cap of the cartridge. The movable mechanism may also be actuated by a movable mechanism drive to remove the closure cap from the cassette and to reseat it in a sealed position in the cassette. The movable mechanism is preferably driven by a drive member shaft to unscrew and re-screw the closure cap. More preferably, the provision of a gripping element of the movable mechanism, which is made with the possibility of releasable connection with the fixing element of the closing cap (or vice versa).

The invention further relates to a portion dispenser system comprising the portion dispenser mentioned above and at least one refill cassette.

A replacement cassette may contain:

- a tubular storage element having an internal volume for accommodating a plurality of portioned components of the beverage ingredients (also referred to as "drink components"), containing a closed end and an open end having an outlet, the size of which is preferably selected with the possibility of single dosing of a single beverage component, and the tubular the storage element comprises a connecting part located at or near the dispensing opening and is configured to be connected to at least one tubular part of the connection socket, and

a closure cap capable of being connected in a releasable and hermetic manner to the storage tubular at the open end of the storage element by means of a releasable complementary connection of the storage tubular and the closure cap.

The closure cap of the cassette may include a locking element that is complementary connected to the gripping element of the portion dispenser and allows the closure cap to be removed from the tubular element and reconnected to the tubular element. The gripping element of the dispenser may be provided at the end of the movable mechanism with the possibility of engaging them, if the movable mechanism is in an extended position in the housing of the movable mechanism.

The interior of the cassette is preferably protected from the environment, for example by a vacuum or an oxygen-free inert gas, and the storage tubular and the closure cap are hermetically sealed to prevent gas exchange with the outside when the closure cap is in a sealed, connected position with the tubular element for storage. The tubular element and the closure cap may be made of packaging material(s) providing an oxygen barrier, such as EVOH or PVOH.

The beverage components are preferably spherical in shape. The drink components are preferably essentially made from compressed powder, flakes, fibers or a combination thereof, more preferably the pressed balls are made from or essentially consist of roasted and ground coffee.

The invention further relates to a beverage preparation device comprising a portion dispenser or portion dispenser system as defined above.

Brief description of the drawings

In FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the portion dispenser system of the invention with a replaceable cassette mounted on the portion dispenser.

In FIG. 2 is a side view of the cartridge of the invention.

In FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view in plane P of the portion dispenser system of the invention shown in FIG. one.

In FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of FIG. 3 showing the interconnection between the change cassette and the portion dispenser in the extended position of the movable mechanism.

In FIG. 5-8 are cross-sectional perspective views of the principal kinematics of operation of the portion dispenser according to the first embodiment.

In FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the portion dispenser system in the dispensing position with the movable mechanism in the extended position and the change cassette sealed with a closing cap (i.e., prior to selection and loading of the beverage component from storage in the dispenser).

In FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the portion dispenser system of the invention shown in FIG. 1 in a dispensing position in which the beverage component is located in the dispensing chamber prior to being transferred to the dispensing area.

In FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the portion dispenser system of the invention, with the beverage component in the movable dispensing chamber in the retracted position and after being moved to the dispensing position.

In FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the portion dispenser system of the invention in the dispensing position with the movable mechanism in the extended position and dispensing the beverage component into the dispensing area.

In FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of FIG. 5 in cross section.

In FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of FIG. 6 in cross section.

In FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of FIG. 7 in cross section.

In FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the portion dispenser system with the frame partially removed in an intermediate position of the movable mechanism assembly between the dispensing and dispensing positions.

In FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of FIG. 12 in cross section.

In FIG. 14 is a side view of the refill cassette closing cap.

In FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the closure cap shown in FIG. fourteen.

In FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional perspective view along the line A-A of the closure cap shown in FIG. fourteen.

In FIG. 17 is a side cross-sectional view of the engagement of the movable mechanism gripping element and the locking element of the cartridge cover cap.

In FIG. 18 is a view of FIG. 17 is a perspective view in cross section with the sealing portion of the movable mechanism removed.

In FIG. 19 is a perspective view in cross section along the line A-A of the closure cap, showing the engagement of the gripper during removal, i. unscrewing the closing cap with a movable mechanism.

In FIG. 20 is a perspective view in cross section along the line A-A of the closure cap, showing the engagement of the gripper during reconnection, i.e. screwing the closing cap with a movable mechanism.

In FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional perspective view of FIG. twenty.

In FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the portion dispenser system of the invention ("ball valve dispenser") with a replaceable cassette mounted on the portion dispenser.

In FIG. 23 is a plan view of the portion dispenser system of FIG. 22.

In FIG. 24 is a partial cross-sectional view of the portion dispenser system shown in FIG. 22 and 23 showing the interconnection between the change cassette and the portion dispenser in the extended position of the movable mechanism.

In FIG. 25 is a partial cross-sectional view of the portion dispenser system shown in FIG. 22 and 23 showing the interconnection between the refill cassette and the portion dispenser in the retracted position of the movable mechanism and prior to transfer to the dispensing area.

In FIG. 26 is a partial cross-sectional view of the portion dispenser system shown in FIG. 22 and 23, which shows the interconnection between the refill cassette and the portion dispenser in the retracted position of the movable mechanism and during transfer to the dispensing area.

In FIG. 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of the portion dispenser system shown in FIG. 22 and 23 showing the interconnection between the refill cassette and the portion dispenser in the extended position of the movable mechanism for transfer to the dispensing area.

Implementation of the invention

The invention relates to a 1 dose dispenser system as shown in FIG. 1, 3 and 4 containing a 2-portion dispenser and a 3 refill cassette.

The dispenser 2 portions, essentially, contains a frame 4 with a socket 5 for attachment with the possibility of receiving a replaceable cassette. A dispensing hole 6 can be provided in the socket for connection.

As shown in FIG. 2, the refill cassette 3 includes a tubular storage member 7 for storing beverage components 8, such as pressed balls of beverage ingredients. The beverage ingredients may contain or be roasted and ground coffee. The tubular storage member is preferably configured to accommodate a stack of beverage components, positioned in a vertical position by inserting the change cassette into the attachment slot 5, thereby dispensing the beverage component into the portion dispenser individually and by gravity. The tubular storage element preferably has an elongated shape and extends along the longitudinal axis (Y). In particular, the tubular storage element has a closed end 9 and an open end 10 having an outlet 11, the size of which is chosen to allow for single dosing of a single beverage component. The tubular storage element 7 comprises a connecting part 12 located at or near the outlet 11 and configured to be connected to at least one tubular surface 13 of the seat 5 for attaching the frame. Moreover, the closure cap 14 is configured to be releasably and sealably connected to the tubular storage element 7 at the open end 10. To this end, a releasably complementary connection 15 of the storage element and the closure cap is provided. As will be discussed in more detail below, such a releasable connection may advantageously be provided with a thread, through which the closure cap can be removed by unscrewing it and reconnected by screwing.

Preferably, the internal volume of the replaceable cassette is characterized by a low oxygen content. More preferably it is evacuated or saturated with a protective gas such as carbon dioxide and/or nitrogen. The tubular storage element and the closure cap are preferably made of polymeric and/or metallic materials which prevent the penetration of oxygen for at least several days or weeks. A gas- and moisture-tight seal is also provided between the protective cap 14 and the storage tubular 7, for example using a gas-tight seal and/or an additional at least one sealing element, such as a sealing bead or an o-ring.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the portion dispenser comprises a drive assembly in the form of a plunger assembly 16 configured to receive a beverage component and move it into a dispensing area 17 of a frame that has a dispensing opening 18. The piston assembly essentially comprises a move mechanism in the form of a piston 19 reciprocatingly housed in a moving mechanism housing in the form of a piston housing 20. The piston is mounted along the axis with the dispensing hole 6 and is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the replaceable cassette when inserted into the slot for attaching the portion dispenser.

The tubular surface 13 of the dispenser is operable to be connected to the tubular element 7 of the replaceable cassette to hold the replaceable cassette in a substantially vertical position, whereby the beverage components are dispensed in the dispenser by gravity. The attachment socket 5 may further comprise at least one locking element 21 configured to be releasably engaged with a tubular element for storing a replaceable cassette. As shown in FIG. 4, the locking member may be a snap-on resiliently displaceable member disposed within the tubular surface 13, configured to resiliently engage a complementary recess, such as a complementary-shaped annular groove 22, in the storage member. The snap lock element 21 may have at least one tooth with a substantially transverse surface that engages with the groove 22 to prevent the cassette from moving axially upward. Such a connection can secure the replacement cassette in place, prevent accidental removal during operation, and can further ensure that the connection of the replacement cassette to the attachment socket is sealed and aligned precisely with the piston assembly. Of course, such locking devices may take many other forms, such as the form of a spring ring or several spring balls distributed around the circumference. For example, an insertion part (for example, a snap-on element) may also be part of the cassette, and a counterpart (for example, a groove) may be provided inside the tubular surface 13.

The piston 19 is located in the piston housing 20 of the piston assembly 16 to move between an extended position, in which the piston approaches the dispensing hole 6 (seen in Fig. 3 and 4), and a retracted position, in which the dispensing chamber 23 is defined (shown in Fig. 9 ). The volume of the dispensing chamber 23 depends on the distance at which the piston is retracted relative to the dispensing opening 6. This distance can be adjusted depending on the number and/or volume of dispensed beverage components with the possibility of creating a minimum free volume in the dispensing chamber 23 if it contains a component (- s) drink. In particular, the value of such a volume can be selected in accordance with the size of a single component of the drink with the possibility of capturing the component of the drink by the piston assembly separately.

The plunger assembly 16 further includes means for opening and then closing the replaceable cassette to control the individual dispensing of the beverage component and at the same time maintain a low oxygen content in the internal volume of the cassette. To this end, the piston is provided with an end part 24, which can be connected to the closing cap 14 of the replaceable cassette. The plunger assembly 16 is movable to allow detachable complementary connection 15 to be detached and reattached after the beverage component has been dispensed.

In particular, the end part 24 of the piston forms part of the gripping element 25, which is made with the possibility of complementary connection with the fixing element 26 of the closing cap. Such a gripping and locking mechanism will be further described in the discussion of the examples shown in FIGS. 15–21. In principle, the gripping and locking elements 25, 26 are designed to provide a connection that maintains the attachment of the closure cap to the piston when the latter is moved between an extended position and a retracted position. As a result, the closure cap forms a support for the first beverage component in the stack when the piston is retracted, whereby the first component smoothly moves into the dispensing chamber at the same time as the piston is pushed in, rather than falling into the chamber by gravity. The advantage of such dispensing support is the ability to maintain the integrity of the beverage component while ensuring proper dispensing individually by means of the plunger assembly.

The opening and subsequent closing means additionally comprises a drive of the movable mechanism in the form of a piston drive 27 configured to bring the piston into reciprocating motion in the axial direction in the piston body. Moreover, the piston drive 27 is configured to drive the piston into a combined movement in the axial direction and rotational movement along the longitudinal axis (I) to remove (for example, unscrew) the closure cap connected to the piston from the tubular member to retain the cassette. To do this, the combined movement in the axial direction and rotational movement is carried out to match the thread path of the complementary connection 15 of the closure cap in the cassette. Piston drive 27 may be a drive element shaft that includes a shaft nut element 28 fixed to the piston housing that engages with a threaded piston shaft 29 to cause the piston to move in a reciprocating and rotational path along an axis (I) between an extended and removed provisions. The shaft 29 is driven by a gear mechanism 30, which may be formed from two (or more) gears driven by an electric motor 31. Advantageously, the gear mechanism is positioned to place the electric motor parallel to the piston to save space in the frame. dispenser. It should be noted that the use of a gear mechanism can be omitted, and the motor can be positioned coaxially with the shaft 29 and connected to it directly.

As shown in FIG. 9, the portion dispenser includes sealing elements configured to provide a reliable gas-tight and water-tight sealing structure to the change cassette when it is installed in the connection socket 5. In particular, a sealing element 32 is provided between the attachment socket 5 and the tubular element 7 for storing the cassette. The sealing element 32 may be part of the tubular surface 13 or in addition to it, such as its inner bottom. The sealing element 32 in an alternative or additional embodiment may be part of the tubular element 7 for storage. Another sealing element 33 is provided between the socket 5 for attaching the frame, or another nearby part thereof, and the piston housing 20. Again, as shown in the example, the sealing element 33 may be part of the socket for attachment, or in an alternative or additional embodiment, be part of the piston housing. At least one other sealing element 34 (essentially two of the sealing elements shown in the preferred example) is part of the piston 19 and is positioned to engage with the piston housing 20. The sealing elements 32, 33 and 34 are involved in the hermetic connection of the replaceable cassette with the piston assembly with the ability to prevent ingress of air coming from outside into the dispensing chamber 23 and into the internal volume of the replaceable cassette. As a result, when the closure cap is withdrawn during piston retraction, the resulting pressure balance and the associated gas transfer are only possible between the exchange cartridge and the dispensing chamber 23. When the piston is retracted, there is substantially no air entry from the outside.

In accordance with another aspect of the portion dispenser, the plunger assembly 16 is mounted on the frame 4 for movement between a dispensing position and a dispensing position. In the illustrated mode, the piston assembly is rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation Z, which is parallel to the axis I of movement of the piston. In the dosing position, the piston is in an axial position with respect to the dosing orifice 18 (along the O axis). The dispensing opening 6 and the dispensing opening 18 may be arranged in a parallel (substantially vertical) axial arrangement to allow for easy movement of the movable mechanism body, such as pivoting movement, between two positions relative to the frame. The piston assembly is driven by a movable mechanism assembly drive in the form of a piston assembly actuator 35 . The piston assembly drive may include an annular gear 89 fixed to the piston housing, a drive gear 60 in engagement with the annular gear, and an electric motor 38.

The piston assembly further comprises a seal 36 for sealing the dispensing opening 6 as the piston moves into the dispensing area. The closure is preferably a wall section located transversely with respect to the dispensing opening 6 and the metering opening 18. The closure is movable together with the piston body 20 between the dispensing opening and the metering opening to selectively close the dispensing opening or the metering opening immediately after the piston body leaves the opening dispensing or dispensing opening. In the preferred mode, the shutter 36 forms an extension of the wall of the piston housing, which extends transversely with respect to the axes I and O of the holes.

The abutment surface of the closure cap (i.e., the surface against which the beverage component abuts for dispensing through the body, as shown in FIG. 11) is also configured to match the surface of the closure to maintain the amount of air that can enter the cassette as much as possible. lower level. The bearing surface of the closure cap is preferably flat with a flat closure.

Additional sealing elements are provided to increase the gas and/or moisture tightness of the piston housing. In particular, at least one sealing element 37 can be placed between the piston body 20 and the frame 4. The sealing element 37 seals the piston chamber during rotation of the piston body 20. In addition, at least one sealing element 38 may be placed between the dispensing opening 18 and the piston assembly. if the piston body is not yet aligned with the dosing hole (Fig. 9, 11). It is also pressed against the edge 39 of the piston housing when the piston is aligned with the axis O of the hole (Fig. 10).

The piston drive 27 and the piston assembly drive 35 can be automatically controlled by a control unit 40 located in the frame or elsewhere in the dispenser. The control unit is configured to synchronously control the drives to ensure proper functioning, including, respectively: dispensing the beverage component, dispensing it to the dispensing area, and returning the piston assembly to its original position for the next cycle.

The operation of the portion dispenser can be shown in FIG. 5–8.

In order to initiate the dispensing cycle of the beverage component, the change cassette 3 is inserted into the connection socket of the portion dispenser with the closure cap 14 attached to close the storage tube 7 . The replaceable cassette is fixed in the socket 5 for attachment due to the elastic connecting element. A secure connection can be easily ensured by manually feeding the cassette towards the dispenser. The elastic connecting element is displaced before being inserted into the annular groove 22 under the action of elastic recovery.

In this configuration, the interior of the cassette remains under vacuum or in a protected atmosphere. The beverage components are stacked in a cassette with the lowest beverage component pressed against the closure cap. The piston assembly is reset with the piston in the extended position to receive the replacement cartridge. In this configuration it is possible to use a position sensor that detects the presence of a change cartridge and activates the extension of the piston by driving the piston accordingly.

In the position shown in Fig. 5, the gripping element 25 of the plunger engages with the locking element of the closure cap. As will be discussed further with reference to FIG. 17 and 18, the start of engagement may simply be the insertion of the gripping element axially into the locking element.

In the next step, shown in Fig. 6, the piston is actuated in the retracted position. The control unit 40 issues an appropriate command to the piston actuator 27, and the piston moves downward with a combined axial movement and rotational movement. At the beginning of this movement, the gripping element 25 of the piston end automatically locks into the locking element of the closure cap, ensuring that the two elements are axially connected. As will be explained in more detail below with reference to FIG. 14-21, such locking is possible when the movement of the gripping element 25 is combined while the locking element remains stationary. As the piston retracts as it travels along the shaft, the gripping element imparts a combination of rotational and axial force to the locking element for extraction, i.e. unscrewing the closing cap 14 from the tubular element for storing the cassette. When the plunger is retracted, the closing cap is grasped and lowered down together with the drink component on it. The beverage components enter the dispensing chamber 23 formed by the retracted piston and piston housing.

In the next step, shown in Fig. 7, the rotational movement of the piston assembly 16 is activated, which appropriately moves the selected beverage component 8 into the dispensing chamber 23. The control unit sends an appropriate command to the drive 35 of the piston assembly while the piston remains in the retracted position at this stage. The dispensing opening 6 is closed by a shutter 36 which slides laterally as the piston is retracted from the dispensing opening. As the closure moves into the position of closing the dispensing opening, the seal 33 achieves a tight connection between the closure and the connection socket (as shown in FIG. 13). As a result, the impact of the environment on the internal volume of the cassette is essentially eliminated. In this mode, the bearing surface of the closure cap is provided with a radius of curvature that substantially coincides with the radius of the closure surface of the piston body, with the ability to keep the amount of air that can enter the cassette as low as possible.

In the next step, shown in Fig. 8, the piston is actuated in the extended position. The control unit gives the appropriate command to the actuator of the piston, and the piston moves up along the shaft to the point where the beverage component is in the dispensing area, for example, it goes beyond or through the dispensing opening. It should be noted that the dispensing zone may be a beverage brewing zone or a processing zone.

In the next stage, the piston assembly returns to its original position for a new cycle.

In FIG. 14-21 shows one possible example of the configuration of the gripping and locking elements in accordance with the invention. However, many other options are allowed. In this example, the closure cap 14 includes a threaded portion 41 as part of a releasable complementary connection. The complementary threaded part is located in the tubular storage element. It should be noted that the connection may be any other equivalent form of connection, such as a bayonet connection or the like. The fixing element 26 of the closing cap contains a hollow section 42 for the end part 24 of the gripping element. The locking element further comprises an inlet 43 communicating with the receiving cavity. The cross section of the inlet opening is smaller than that of the receiving cavity. The shape of the entrance opening is similar to, but slightly larger than, the shape of the end portion, allowing the insertion of the end portion through the entrance opening in the preferred rotational orientation shown in FIG. 17 and 18. For example, the entrance opening comprises essentially two opposing arcuate portions 44, 45 that are interrupted by a pair of opposing raised surfaces 46, 47 extending toward the center of the opening. Hollow portion 42 has substantially two opposing arcuate annular portions 62, 63 interrupted by a pair of stepped ridges 48, 49. Each stepped ridge is formed by an innermost projection 50 and an outermost projection 51, which have substantially the same shape, but somewhat radially offset relative to each other. In a plan view, the outline of the stepped projections is substantially covered by the opposite projection surfaces 46, 47 of the entrance opening. Each protrusion is located in the cavity to form, respectively, the first and second radial bearing surfaces 52, 53 for the end part of the closing cap supplied by the piston.

On the gripping element 25 of the piston, the end portion 24 forms an expanded surface substantially corresponding to the shape of the inlet. The end part faces outwards with its tapered surface 54, which is smaller than the entrance opening, so as not to interfere with its movement during the rotation of the gripping element. The end portion of the gripper includes a pair of opposing slots 55, 56 configured to allow the end portion to pass through the entrance opening. Each slot has a first radial bearing surface 57, configured to engage with the first bearing surface 52 of the locking element, and a second radial bearing surface 58, configured to engage with the second bearing surface 53 of the locking element. As shown in FIG. 19, the first element bearing surfaces 52, 57 abut against each other when the locking element is unscrewed by the gripping element (in direction of rotation A) to remove the closure cap from the cartridge. As shown in FIG. 20, the second bearing surfaces 53, 58 abut against each other when the locking element is unscrewed by the gripping element (in the direction of rotation B) for the subsequent closing of the closure cap on the change cassette. In FIG. 21 you can see the bearing surfaces 52 of the gripping element at the moment they are pressed against the bearing surfaces 57 of the locking element in the process of unscrewing the closure cap. It should be further noted that the depth "d" of the receiving cavity 42 is much greater than the thickness "d ₀ " of the end portion with sufficient clearance 59 to prevent the gripping element from blocking with the locking element during operation.

Of course, many different shapes are possible for the grip and lock design, as long as a strong connection between the plunger and the closure cap is achieved, whereby the closure cap can be securely removed and subsequently closed and the beverage component can be placed in the dispensing chamber for transfer to the dispensing area.

A second embodiment of the dispenser system of the invention is described with reference to FIG. 22–27. For convenience, when designating the same technical elements, the same reference numbers are used as for the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1–21. The description of such characteristics applies to this embodiment and will not be repeated in the text below. Essentially, only the main differences are discussed.

As shown in FIG. 24-27, in this embodiment, the piston assembly 16 is rotatably arranged about the Z-axis on the frame 4 of the dispenser. The piston assembly is movable between a dispensing position (FIG. 24) and a beverage component dispensing position (FIG. 27). The Z-axis is substantially horizontal and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis I along which the piston moves between the extended and retracted positions.

The piston housing 20 may have a cylindrical shape that rotates about a substantially horizontal axis in a frame containing a complementary cylindrical guide cavity. In this case, the shutter 36 will be formed by the cylindrical surface of the piston body 20 as the dispensing chamber 23 moves away from the dispensing orifice 6 and the metering orifice 18.

The dispensing opening 18 may be provided in the frame and may be at some distance from the dispensing opening at a certain angle C, for example from 80° to 120°. However, angle C may also have other values, provided it is sufficiently removed from the dispensing opening to provide sufficient space to accommodate the piston assembly under the cassette.

The piston body is sealed in the frame with the help of sealing elements 33, 38, located respectively around the dispensing hole 6 and the dosing hole 18.

The drive of the piston assembly is shown in Fig. 22 and 23 and includes an electric motor 38 driving a gear mechanism 60 that is connected to the piston assembly. The gear mechanism may include a pinion 61 connected to the motor shaft and engaged with an arc rack 62 which is rigidly connected to the central axis of the cylindrical piston housing.

The portion dispenser of the invention according to two embodiments may be part of a beverage preparation apparatus comprising a brewing chamber that receives the beverage component dispensed by the dispenser in the dispensing area.

It should also be noted that the portion dispenser may comprise several different attachment sockets arranged to connect several beverage component cassettes. The plunger assembly may further be movable between different attachment ports to selectively dispense beverage components and also move from multiple attachment ports to one or more dispensing areas. The portion dispenser may also include one plunger assembly per connection port.

Claims (25)

1. Dispenser (2) of servings for dispensing beverage components (8) from a replaceable cassette (3), containing: a frame (4) with a socket (5) for connection with the possibility of receiving a replaceable cassette; a dispensing opening (6) next to the socket (5) for connection, the size of which allows the beverage components to be dispensed from the replaceable cassette individually under the action of gravity; node (16) of the movable mechanism containing the movable mechanism (19) and the housing (20) of the movable mechanism, inside which is placed the movable mechanism for movement in it; wherein the movable mechanism (19) is configured to feed into the dispensing chamber (23) to dispense at least one beverage component from it and to move it to the dispensing zone (17), and wherein the movable mechanism assembly (16) is configured to be connected to the replaceable cassette (3) and contains means for opening the replaceable cassette to allow the beverage component to be dispensed into the dispensing chamber, and then reclosing the replaceable cassette, in which the movable mechanism (19) is placed axially relative to the dispensing opening (6) and inside the housing (20) of the movable mechanism for movement between an extended position, in which the movable mechanism is at or near the dispensing opening (6) to abut against into at least one portion component (8) of the drink, and a retracted position in which the dispensing chamber is limited depending on the distance at which the movable mechanism is removed relative to the dispensing opening (6) for receiving at least one, preferably single, component of the drink dispensed from a cassette; or in which the movable mechanism (19) is placed transversely relative to the dispensing opening (6) and inside the housing (20) of the movable mechanism for movement between an extended position, in which the movable mechanism is at or near the dispensing opening (6) to abut against at least one portioned beverage component (8), and a retracted position in which the dispensing chamber is limited depending on the distance at which the movable mechanism is removed relative to the dispensing opening (6) for receiving at least one, preferably single, beverage component dispensed from a cassette; and the movable mechanism (19) contains an end part (24) configured to be connected to the closing cap (14), which is releasably connected to the tubular element (7) for storing the replaceable cassette (3) with the movement of the movable mechanism (19) between retracted position and extended position with the closing cap (14) attached to it. 2. The serving dispenser of claim 1, wherein the mover assembly is configured to seal against the cartridge and includes means for opening the cartridge to allow the beverage component to be dispensed into the dispensing chamber and then reclosing the cartridge. 3. The dispenser of portions according to claim 1 or 2, in which the socket for attachment (5) contains at least one tubular surface (13), made with the possibility of connection with a replaceable cassette (3), in a vertical or inclined position of the replaceable cassette, for whereby the beverage components (8) are dispensed by gravity, and optionally comprises one sealing element to provide a gas-tight and/or moisture-tight connection between the change cassette and the dispensing opening. 4. Dispenser portions according to any one of paragraphs. 1-3, in which the end part (24) of the movable mechanism (19) forms at least part of the gripping element (25) made with the possibility of complementary connection with the fixing element (26) of the closing cap (14) to be removed from the tubular element ( 7) for storing a replacement cassette. 5. Dispenser portions according to any one of paragraphs. 1-4, in which the node (16) of the movable mechanism is installed on the frame (4) with the ability to move to move the dispensing chamber (23) between the distribution position, in which the movable mechanism (19) has an axial location with respect to the dispensing opening (6 ), and the dosing position, in which the movable mechanism (19) has an axial location with respect to the dosing opening (18) of the frame. 6. The dispenser of portions according to claim 5, in which the assembly (16) of the movable mechanism includes a shutter (36) configured to hermetically close the dispensing opening (18) as the movable mechanism moves into the dispensing area (17) by the housing (20) moving mechanism. 7. Dispenser portions according to any one of paragraphs. 1 or 6, wherein the opening and closing means comprises a movable mechanism drive (27) configured to drive the movable mechanism (19) along an axial reciprocating motion path, most preferably along a combined axial and rotary motion path. 8. The portion dispenser according to claim 7, wherein the movable mechanism assembly (16) is rotatably mounted on the frame. 9. A portion dispenser system (1) comprising a portion dispenser (2) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one replaceable cassette (3). 10. The system (1) of the portion dispenser according to claim 9, in which the replaceable cassette (3) contains: tubular element (7) for storage, having an internal volume for accommodating a plurality of portion components (8) of beverage ingredients - also called "drink components", containing a closed end (9) and an open end (10), having an outlet (11), size which is preferably selected with the possibility of single dosing of a single component of the drink, and the tubular element (7) for storage contains a connecting part (12) located at the outlet (11) or next to it, and is made with the possibility of connection with at least one tubular surface (13) sockets (5) for connection, and a closing cap (14) configured to be connected in a detachable and hermetic manner with the storage tubular element (7) at the open end (10) of the storage tubular element via a detachable complementary connection (15) of the storage tubular element and the closing cap. 11. The portion dispenser system according to claim 10, wherein the closure cap (14) of the replaceable cassette comprises a locking element (26) configured to be complementarily connected to the gripping element (25) of the portion dispenser (2) and allowing the closure cap (14) to be removed. from the tubular element (7) for storage and reconnection with the tubular element (7) for storage. 12. System dispenser portions according to any one of paragraphs. 9-11, in which the internal volume of the replaceable cassette (3) is protected from the external environment due to vacuum or inert gas, and the tubular element (7) for storage and the closing cap (14) are hermetically sealed to prevent gas and/or moisture exchange with environment, if the closure cap is in a sealed connection position with the tubular storage element, and at the same time the tubular storage element (7) and the closure cap (14) are preferably made of packaging material(s) that prevent(their) penetration oxygen such as EVOH or PVOH or aluminium. 13. The portion dispenser system of claim 12, wherein the beverage components (8) are spherical and are preferably made from compressed powder, flakes, fibers, or a combination thereof. 14. The portion dispenser system of claim 13, wherein the beverage components (8) are pressed balls of roasted and ground coffee. 15. A beverage preparation device comprising a portion dispenser or portion dispenser system according to any one of the preceding claims.

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