TW201741203A - Code and container of system for preparing a beverage or foodstuff - Google Patents

Abstract

A container for a beverage or foodstuff preparation machine, the container for containing beverage or foodstuff material and comprising a code encoding preparation information, the code comprising a reference portion and a data portion: the reference portion comprising reference units defining a reference line r; the data portion comprising a data unit, wherein said data unit is arranged on an encoding line D that intersects the reference line r, the data unit is arranged a distance d from said intersection as a variable to at least partially encode a parameter of the preparation information, whereby said encoding line D is circular and is arranged with a tangent thereto orthogonal the reference line r at said intersection point, wherein the reference units are arranged with a configuration defining a reference point from which the reference line r extends.

Description

Code and container for a system for preparing a beverage or food

The embodiment is generally directed to a beverage or food preparation system that prepares a beverage or food product from a container such as a coffee capsule, and in particular with respect to a code disposed on the container, the code encoding for Preparation information read by one of the machines of the system.

An increasing number of systems for preparing a beverage or food product are configured to operate using a container containing a single serving of a beverage or food material (eg, coffee, tea, ice cream, yogurt). A machine of the system can be configured for preparation by processing the material in the container (e.g., adding a fluid such as milk or water) and mixing it. This type of machine is disclosed in PCT/EP13/072692. in. Alternatively, the machine can be configured to be prepared by at least partially extracting one of the ingredients of the material from the container (eg, by dissolving or brewing). Examples of such machines are provided in EP 2 393 404 A1, EP 2470053 A1, WO 2009/113035.

The increasing popularity of these machines can be attributed in part to a conventional preparation machine (for example with a manually operated espresso maker or a coffee maker (cafetière) (French coffee filter) Enhanced user convenience compared to the French press)).

It may also be partially attributed to an enhanced preparation procedure in which the preparation information specific to the container and/or material therein is encoded as one of the codes on the container; read by the machine; decoded; and The machine is used to optimize the preparation process. In particular, the preparation information can include operational parameters of the machine (such as: fluid temperature, preparation duration, mixing conditions, and fluid volume).

Therefore, there is a need to encode the preparation information on the container. Various codes have been developed, an example being provided in EP 2 594 171 A1, in which one of the flanges of one of the flanges contains a code disposed thereon. The code includes a sequence of symbols that can be printed on the capsule during manufacture. One of the disadvantages of this type of code is its limited coding density, which means that the amount of information that can be encoded is limited. Another disadvantage is that the code is highly visible and can be considered aesthetically unpleasant. EP 2 525 691 A1 discloses a container having a 2D barcode having a higher but still limited coding density.

Therefore, although considerable efforts have been made in the development of such systems, further improvements are still desirable.

One of the objectives of the present disclosure is to provide a container for a beverage or food system that contains a code having a high coding density. It would be advantageous to provide such a type of code that is less visible than prior art. It would be advantageous to provide such a type of code that is not complicated so that it does not contain a large number of symbols. It would be advantageous to provide such a type of code that can properly encode parameters having a wide range of preparation information. Provided in production cost-effective and can be It would be advantageous for the cost-effective code processing subsystem to read and process this type of code. It would be advantageous to provide such a type of code that can be reliably read and processed.

According to a first embodiment, a person disclosed herein is a container for use by a beverage or food preparation machine, in particular a machine of the fourth embodiment (e.g., suitably sized). The container is for containing a beverage or food material (eg, it has an internal volume and is food safe). The container can be a single serving container, i.e., it is sized for containing a beverage or food material in an amount that is used to prepare a single serving (e.g., a pre-dispensed portion) of the product. The container may be a single use container, i.e., intended to be used in a single preparation procedure, preferably after the preparation process (e.g., by perforating, penetrating, removing a lid, or depleting the material). ) Make it unusable. In this way, the container can be defined as disposable. The container contains (e.g., on its surface) a code that encodes preparation information, the code including a reference portion and a data portion. The reference portion includes a reference unit that defines a linear reference line r . The data portion includes at least one data unit, such as an exact data unit, wherein the data unit is disposed on an encoded line D that intersects the reference line r (eg, at least a portion thereof (typically a center) intersects the line) The data unit is disposed at a distance d (ie, a circumferential distance) extending from the code line D as a variable to at least partially encode a parameter of the preparation information (eg, a parameter is determined by The data unit is fully coded or encoded by a number of data units configurable on the same or different code lines, or otherwise encoded by the latter data, whereby the code line D is semi-circular (also That is, it contains a segment of a circle or a complete circle, and is configured to have all the lines to it, the tangent being orthogonal to the reference line r at the intersection. The reference units preferably define a configuration, which may be referred to as a reference configuration. The configuration defines a reference point from which the reference line r extends. This configuration is preferably unique so that the configuration does not appear elsewhere in the code. The configuration preferably includes at least one of the reference cells configured to be non-linear.

One advantage of defining a reference point for a configuration of such a type of reference unit is that its position can be accurately determined. This is especially the case when using a single reference unit to define the point. In this way, the baseline r can be more accurately defined and thus the encoded material.

One advantage of having a circularly extending coded line D is that a polar coordinate system is available for processing, whereby the origin is typically the reference point of the configuration, the reference point being disposed on one of the axes of the coded line To the center; each data unit has a radial distance from one of the origins; each data unit has an angle defined between the reference line and the radial line. This distance d can be conveniently determined by the angle and optionally by the radial distance. Compared to an example code using a Cartesian coordinate system, image processing using one of the coordinates of the coordinate system is less computationally intensive, whereby the axis extends from a reference line and orthogonally to one of its lines. Defined by the sex coding line. In particular, a Cartesian configuration requires the image of the code to be reoriented during processing, which is exempt when using a polar coordinate system. In this way, a more cost effective image processor can be used. Moreover, since a plurality of code lines D can be arranged concentrically around the origin, the code thus has a high coding density, wherein the plurality of code lines each comprise one or more associated data units.

The preparation information may include information related to a preparation procedure, such as one or more parameters used by the machine, such as: temperature; torque and angular velocity (for use in a machine) Achieving a mixed mixing unit; flow rate and/or flow rate; pressure; cooling power %; time (eg, applying a time comprising one of one or more of the aforementioned parameters); expiration date; container geometry; An identifier (for a container containing a plurality of codes, whereby each of the codes encodes a distinct phase of a preparation program); a container identifier; a recipe identifier that can be used to retrieve the machine for preparing the product One or more parameters of the machine, wherein the parameters can be stored on the machine; pre-wetting volume.

The code preferably has a planar shape with a peripheral length of 600 to 1600 μm or 600 to 6000 μm (e.g., the diameter of a circular or polygonal perimeter or the length of a rectangular perimeter). One advantage is that the code is not particularly visible. Another advantage is that a small image capture device can be used to read and decode an image of the code, such as a video camera having a size within a few millimeters. In a machine according to the fourth embodiment, its size provides an easy and reliable integration. More specifically, the unit including the code (that is, the data unit and the reference unit) preferably has a unit length of 50 to 250 μm. The aforementioned unit length can be defined as: a diameter for a substantially circular unit; one side length for one quadrilateral unit; and other suitable length measurements for a unit having another unit shape.

One advantage of a rectangular planar shape is that it forms a mosaic shape. A mosaic shape is particularly advantageous because a plurality of codes can be compactly repeated on the container, for example, for reading error checking, thereby allowing robust code decoding algorithms capable of correcting code reading and/or decoding errors. Designing, and thus minimizing the rate of code read failure; and/or having separate stages of preparing a program encoded by one of the codes. Thus, the first embodiment can include a plurality of such codes, which are formed in an at least partially inlaid manner On the container (e.g., a grid having aligned adjacent rows or having offset adjacent rows) whereby the codes preferably encode different stages of a preparation process. Encoding several stages of a preparation procedure on the container allows for encoding, for example, all of the parameters required to prepare a complex recipe that may require two or more containers to be processed simultaneously or sequentially to obtain two or more ingredients (such as For example, milk and coffee, ice cream and ingredients, milkshakes and flavouring, etc.). All necessary processing parameters are encoded in the code on the one or more containers, the recipe can be updated by modifying the encoded parameter values, and can be introduced and processed by a machine according to a fourth embodiment. New recipes and/or new containers of parameter values without having to update the machine's software or firmware.

The attachment according to a further embodiment may also comprise the aforementioned complex code configuration.

The reference units of the configuration may all have the same individual configuration (eg, in one or more of shape, color, and size). One advantage is that for processing, the units of the code need only be identified as being present, as opposed to being additionally identified by their individual configurations, whereby the configured positioning is based on the associated reference units. The spatial configuration (generally its isocenter) is used for the decision, not the individual unit configuration. The processing overhead is alleviated in this way, enabling the use of a more cost effective processor.

The baseline r may extend through or extend from at least one selected from the group consisting of: a symmetric center; a centroid; a line of symmetry. Additionally or alternatively, the line r may extend through or parallel to one or more reference cells of the configuration. In this context, a reference unit is generally used to mean passing through its center. One advantage is that the baseline r can be conveniently determined once the configuration has been identified. The reference point is preferably disposed at the aforementioned geometric noun of the group. One advantage is that the reference point can be conveniently determined once the configuration has been identified.

The configuration of the reference cells of the configuration may be selected from one of the following groups: a triangle (eg, an equilateral triangle; a right triangle; an isosceles triangle); a square; another polygon having up to 8 vertices . In this context, the configuration of the configuration is preferably defined at the vertices by the center of the associated reference cells. One advantage is that with a simple configuration of the reference unit, the configuration can be conveniently identified, for example, by locating the centers of the reference cells and searching for the formation of a shape corresponding to one of the configured shapes.

The configuration may have a right-angled triangular configuration whereby the vertices of the triangle (eg, the points defined by the centers of the reference cells) are configured on a circular line that is coupled to the code The line D is concentric such that the reference point is disposed at the center of the circular line. In this type of configuration, a radially extending reference line r can be defined to extend parallel to a line extending through both of the reference units. One advantage is that the configuration is closely positioned within the (etc.) code line.

The configuration can be configured such that the reference point is at the center of the circular coded line. One advantage is that the center of the polar coordinate system can be conveniently determined by locating the configuration. The configuration is preferably fully positioned within a track defined by the code line or code lines D.

The configuration can have a configuration by which a single direction of one of the reference lines r can be uniquely identified. This configuration can be achieved by configuring the configuration to have a single line of symmetry that extends through the single line of symmetry or can extend parallel to the line of symmetry. The configuration may be achieved by configuring the configuration to have a side defined by one or more reference cells, the reference line r extending through the side or extending parallel to the side, in particular the side may have wherein a pitch of the reference unit and / or a particular orientation with respect to the other configuration of the reference cell, such as a right triangle, whereby the side or opposite sides extending adjacent to or through which the reference line extending parallel thereto of r . One advantage is that the configuration can define a direction of the baseline r .

The code includes a reference unit defining a reference point and a reference line for determining the center and orientation of the pole code, the container being placed in the machine of the fourth embodiment for use No special alignment is required during processing because the code processing subsystem will be able to determine the center and orientation of the code regardless of the orientation of the container relative to the image capture device.

The code can include a plurality of discrete locations, whereby the discrete locations include or do not include a unit, preferably as a variable to at least partially encode one of the preparation information parameters, whereby at least one of the locations includes A unit that is part of the reference part. It will be understood that when used to encode material, the discrete locations form portions of the reference portion and the data portion. The discrete position or each discrete position may be disposed outside of a track defined by the code line or each code line D , that is, the discrete position or discrete positions are on an outer circumference of one of the lines rather than inside thereof At the enclosed area. One advantage is that the configuration can be used to determine a general direction of the reference line r from which the approximate positioning of the discrete positions can be determined. The locations may be subsequently checked for a data unit, and if a data unit is present, the data unit (preferably its central location) is used as a reference to more accurately determine the direction of the baseline. One advantage in this type of configuration dispenses with the need for a dedicated reference unit on the outside of the coded line D that would otherwise be used to space the data that can be used to encode the data. The code line D can be disposed in a rectangular planar shape, wherein the discrete positions are disposed within the planar shape and are adjacent to one or more vertices of the planar shape. One advantage is that the coding density is maximized, especially for the mosaic configuration of the code.

Specifically, the encoding of the parameters may be selectively encoded using the data units of the discrete locations or the data units of the encoded line D , depending on the type of parameter. Parameters that can only take discrete values are preferably encoded by data units at the discrete locations, such as one or more of the following: expiration date; stage identifier; container or product identifier; a geometric property of the container (e.g., volume); an index or a sign that can be associated with a parameter encoded on a code line D ; a recipe identifier that can be used to retrieve the machine from which the machine is used to prepare the product One or more parameters, wherein the parameters may be stored on the machine; associated with a parameter encoded on a code line D or an identifier of a lookup table. The parameters which may take a wide range of values which may be one of the continuity are preferably encoded via data elements on a code line D , such as one or more of the following: temperature; fluid volume; flow rate Torque and angular velocity; time; % cooling power. In addition, a specific parameter may be encoded by the data unit of the discrete position or the data unit of the coded line D , for example, the data unit codes of the discrete positions are related to the value encoded by the code line D. One index or positive or negative sign.

As an alternative, the reference portion may comprise an additional reference unit configured to be located at a radial position further away from the configuration than the data unit and/or at a predetermined retained radial distance from the configuration Location. One advantage is that the reference line r can be conveniently identified by locating the configuration and then locating an additional reference unit that is configured furthest from the configuration or at a predetermined distance. The additional reference unit can be defined as being disposed at the distance from the reference point. The baseline r can be defined as extending through the center of the additional reference unit. The further reference unit is preferably positioned outside of the trajectory defined by the code line or code lines D.

In an embodiment, there may be a plurality of such codes, wherein a reference line r of a code is a reference unit of the configuration of the reference unit and one or more additional codes (preferably an adjacent code) A similar configuration is determined. The baseline r can be configured to extend through a reference point defined by the configuration of one or more additional codes, preferably an adjacent code. Alternatively, the baseline may be configured to extend at a known location relative to the fiducial, the fiducial being defined by the configuration of one or more additional codes, preferably an adjacent code.

One or more of the following may have the same individual unit configuration, preferably in one or more of shape, color, and size: the reference units of the configuration; additional reference units; One or more of the data units. Preferably, all of the reference units and/or the owners of the data units containing the code have the same individual configuration. One advantage is that it reduces the processing burden and thus enables a more cost effective processor.

A data unit can be disposed along the code line at any continuous distance d from the intersection point of the code line. One advantage is that the code has a high coding density because it can encode information in a continuous manner rather than in a discrete manner. Alternatively, the data units may be disposed only at discrete distances from the intersection (ie, the data unit may occupy only one of a plurality of predetermined positions along the line D , which may not substantially overlap, And there can be a discrete separation between adjacent locations). Where more than one code line D and/or one or more data units are disposed along the line, the data units may be configured in a combination of continuous distance and discrete distance.

The data portion may have an encoding area in which the code lines D are arranged, and a plurality of data units thereof are disposed within the limit of the code area. The coding zone is preferably circular at a peripheral edge whereby the coded lines D preferably extend concentrically about one of their axial centers. More specifically, the coding region can be circular. One advantage is that in the case of having a ring configuration, the data units are not configured to closely approximate the center of the axis of the ring, wherein the circumferential distance of the code line D is small, such that the determined distance is greater. Small precision. A portion of the coding region may be delimited by the reference line r , for example, the coding region is annular and intersects the reference line r radially. Preferably, the reference units are disposed outside of the coding area.

Preferably, a data unit can be configured to reach the reference line r but not overlap, that is, the circumference of the data unit is re-engaged from the reference line and extends from the reference line. Alternatively, a data unit is not configurable to coincide with the reference line r , the closest distance of the data unit to the reference line being close but having a predetermined minimum distance from the reference line. One advantage is that there is sufficient separation between the reference line r and the data unit for processing. Preferably, the units are not configured to overlap each other.

The code line D may intersect the reference line r at a reference position, and the reference position may have no reference unit, whereby the reference position or each reference position is disposed along the reference line, for example, from the configuration or The reference unit or each reference unit of the other location is at a predetermined distance. Preferably, the reference units are disposed outside the coding area (ie, not disposed in the coding area). One advantage is to increase the coding density because the data units can be configured to closely contact the reference line r , for example without the need to ensure that there is sufficient separation between the data unit and in other cases a reference unit on the line. The aforementioned predetermined distance may be defined as a set amount such that the adjacent reference positions are equidistant, such as a distance between the ends of the reference line r divided by a number of the reference positions.

Alternatively, the code line D may intersect the reference line r at a reference position, whereby the reference position includes a reference unit. One advantage is that the image processor can conveniently determine the location of the encoded lines D.

The data unit can further encode the post-data associated with the parameter. The post-data is preferably discretely encoded (e.g., it can take one of a predetermined number of values). The post-data is generally: enabling identification of a particular parameter; and/or one of the properties associated with the parameter (eg, ± or index). A unit length of a data unit may be selected from one of a plurality of predetermined unit lengths as a variable to encode the post material. The aforementioned unit length can be defined as: a diameter for a substantially circular unit; one side length for one quadrilateral unit; and other suitable length measurements for a unit having another unit shape. An offset from a center of one of the data lines of the code line D along a line extending radially from an axial center of the circular code line D may be selected from one of a plurality of predetermined offsets As a variable to encode the post-set data. Preferably, the offset is achieved within such limits of at least a portion of the associated data unit that intersects the code line D.

The data portion may include a plurality of code lines D (eg, up to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 16, 20, or more), each of which includes a corresponding configuration of a data unit (ie, the The data unit is arranged at a distance d from an intersection point to at least partially encode a parameter). Preferably, the code lines D are arranged in a concentric manner and preferably intersect the reference line r at a different location.

In addition, a plurality of data units can be configured along a single code line D. One advantage is to increase the coding density. In this type of configuration, each data unit can be identified by the post data. Each of the data units can encode a separate parameter. Alternatively, the plurality of data units may encode a single parameter, whereby encoding one of the parameters distance d may be a function of a distance dn of the plurality of data units (eg, an average or a multiple).

The data unit and the reference unit may be formed by one of: printing (for example by a conventional ink printer. One advantage is that the code can be conveniently formed in a cost-effective manner); marking; embossing . The code can be formed directly on a surface of the container, such as the substrate for the units being integral with the container. Alternatively, the code can be formed on an attachment that is attached to the container.

The container can contain the beverage or food material contained therein. The container may comprise one of the following: a capsule; a packet; a receptacle from which the end user consumes the beverage or food. The capsule may have an internal volume of 5 to 80 ml. The receptacle can have an internal volume of 150 to 350 ml. Depending on the application, the packet may have an internal volume of 150 to 350 ml or 200 to 300 ml or 50 to 150 ml.

A method for encoding information is disclosed herein according to a second embodiment, the method comprising forming a code for a beverage or food preparation machine for containing a beverage or food material Or an attachment for attachment to the container or the machine. The method can include encoding information in a code according to any of the features of the first embodiment. Specifically, the method may include: configuring a reference unit to define a configuration, the configuration defining a reference point, a reference line r of a reference portion extending from the reference point; and configuring a data unit by a parameter line D intersecting the reference line r and at least partially encoding a parameter of the preparation information with a data portion of the code, the data unit or the data unit group being configured with any distance d , the distance being used as A variable of the code extends from the intersection along the code line D , whereby the code line D is circular and is configured to have a line to it, the tangent being orthogonal to the reference at the intersection Line r. The method can include forming the code by one of: printing; engraving; embossing. The method can include forming a plurality of the codes, preferably in an at least partially mosaic configuration.

A method for decoding preparation information (for example, a computer-implemented method) according to a third embodiment, the method comprising obtaining a container according to the first embodiment or according to the seventh embodiment and the eighth embodiment A digital image of one of the attachments; the digital image is processed to decode the encoded preparation information.

The digital image processing in order to decode the information may be prepared comprising: positioning the tag unit and data of such a reference unit; thereby determining a reference line R < determined for a data unit (i.e., those coding for the line of D or each person) from the reference line a distance r along the line d d encoded; the conversion determined by a distance d to the actual value of a parameter V _p.

The unit for locating the code (ie, the data unit and the reference unit) may include one or more of the following: converting the digital image into a binary image; determining a center of the unit by feature extraction A size/area/shape of the cells is determined by pixel integration (i.e., the number of pixels containing a shaded region of the cell is determined).

It is thus determined that a baseline r can include a configuration identifying the reference cells. A configuration identifying the reference unit can include positioning reference units having a particular unique configuration that is preferably defined by the center points of the units. In general, the configuration is stored on a memory unit of the machine (eg, a lookup table) that can include the memory subsystem. Determining the baseline r from the configuration may include determining a reference point from which the reference line r extends. This positioning of the reference point is preferably configured at a particular location relative to the configuration. In general, the location is stored on a memory unit of the machine (eg, a lookup table) that can include the memory subsystem.

The determination of the baseline r from the configuration may further comprise identifying a single unique direction from the configuration of the reference cells, such as by searching for a line of symmetry or a side as defined above.

The determination decision line r from the configuration may further comprise identifying a unit, the unit being disposed at at least one of the plurality of discrete positions, preferably configured to be defined by the code line D or each of the code lines D external. In particular, it may include refining an initial position of the baseline r that is determined using the configuration using the reference unit of the at least one discrete location.

Alternatively, it may comprise determining a reference unit having a radial position further from the configuration than the data unit and/or at a predetermined retained radial position from the configuration.

In an embodiment comprising a plurality of such codes, determining a baseline r for a code can include determining the baseline as a reference point extending from the configuration of the code and extending through configuration by at least one other code A defined reference point, or extending relative to the reference point.

Determining, for each data unit, a distance d from the reference line r along the code line D may include determining a circumferential distance, that is, by being at the center of the code line (generally the reference point of the configuration), The angle observed between the reference line r and the data unit is along with the radial distance of the data unit from the center. Alternatively, it may comprise determining an angular distance, that is, by observing the angle between the reference line r and the data unit at the center of the code line, whereby the radial distance is usable for identification relative to a reference position The data unit. The latter is preferred because fewer processing steps are required. In each case, the distance can be corrected to take into account the magnification/read distance.

The distance d is determined by a parameter V _p is converted into an actual value may comprise one by using the stored relationship between the parameter and the distance d (e.g. via one stored on the memory cell information machine, the machine the memory subsystem may comprise a) converting the distance d is determined by the actual value of a parameter into a V _p of. The relationship can be linear (eg V _p d ) and / or it may be non-linear. The relationship may comprise at least one selected from the group consisting of: a one-to-one relationship (eg, V _p Log( d )); an exponential relationship (eg V _p e ^d ); a polynomial; a step function; linear. The exponential relationship and the logarithmic relationship are particularly advantageous when the accuracy of a parameter is important at low values and less important at high values or vice versa. In general, the relationship is stored as a program or a lookup table. This relationship can be applied to any suitable variable of the preparation information, such as: temperature; torque; flow rate/flow; pressure; cooling power %. One advantage is the performance of a complex recipe that can be determined by the specific materials in the container and the function of the machine.

Processing the digital image to decode the preparation information may further comprise determining a post-data associated with the data unit of the encoded parameter, for example by one or more of: determining a unit length of a data unit; determining one The data unit is offset from the code line D. The foregoing determination may be by feature extraction or by the overall area/shape of the pixel integration.

According to a fourth embodiment, a beverage or food preparation machine is disclosed herein, the machine comprising: a container processing subsystem for receiving a container according to the first embodiment and preparing a beverage or food product from the container; a code processing subsystem operative to: obtain a digital image of the code of the container, process the digital image to decode the encoded preparation information; a control subsystem operative to implement the following one or a plurality of: using the decoded preparation information to control the container processing subsystem; using the preparation information to monitor container consumption for reordering (eg, via a communication interface via a server system); using the preparation information to determine a container Has it exceeded its expiration date. The code processing subsystem can be further configured to process the digital image of the code in accordance with the third embodiment.

Controlling the container processing subsystem using the decoded preparation information may comprise performing a preparation procedure in stages, whereby the preparation information for the stages is decoded from A code that encodes a plurality of stages (as in accordance with the first embodiment) and/or a plurality of codes that are decoded from a stage of each of the plurality of stages of the encoding. The decoded preparation information for several stages can be used, for example, to control the container processing subsystem to perform complex recipes, which means, for example, processing two or more containers (preferably in a single user) When moving, for example, when a button of the user interface of the machine is pressed a single time. For example, based on the decoded information from a first container, the control subsystem checks for the presence of a particular second container in the machine, for example, before or after processing the first container, and if the second container cannot be found Then the preparation procedure is suspended. The preparation process continues once a second container of the desired type is detected in the machine.

The container processing subsystem is generally operable to perform the preparation by adding a fluid, such as water or milk, to the beverage or food material. The container processing subsystem can comprise one of: an extraction unit; a dissolution unit; a mixing unit. The container processing subsystem can further include a fluid supply operative to supply fluid to the aforementioned unit. Generally, the fluid supply comprises a fluid pump and a fluid heater. The aforementioned units can be configured to operate in a container containing a beverage or food material.

A beverage or food preparation system is disclosed herein according to a fifth embodiment, the system comprising a container according to the first embodiment and a beverage or food preparation machine according to the fourth embodiment.

A method for preparing a beverage or food product using the system according to the fifth embodiment, according to a sixth embodiment, the method comprising: obtaining a digital image according to a code of the first embodiment (which is configurable at On the container or according to further embodiments Processing the digital image to decode the encoded preparation information; operating a control subsystem to implement one or more of: controlling the container processing subsystem using the decoded preparation information; using the Information is prepared to monitor container consumption for reordering (eg, via a server interface via a server system); the preparation information is used to determine if a container has exceeded its expiration date. The method can further include any of the steps of processing the digital image of the code in accordance with the third embodiment.

According to a seventh embodiment, the present disclosure is an attachment for attachment to a container for use in a beverage or food preparation machine according to the fourth embodiment. The container is preferably according to any of the features of the first embodiment, preferably without the code thereon. The attachment may comprise: a carrier carrying, for example on one of its surfaces, a code according to the first embodiment; an attachment member for attachment to the container. The attachment is preferably configured to attach the carrier to the container as if the code was integrally formed on the container. In this way, the code can be read by an image capture device as if the code was integrally formed thereon. The attachment can be configured to extend over a substantial portion of the container (eg, a base or cover or rim). Examples of suitable attachment members include: a tape (or a flat area for receiving an adhesive); a mechanical fastener (such as a clip or bolt).

The present disclosure according to an eighth embodiment is configured for attachment to an attachment of a beverage or food preparation machine according to one of the fourth embodiments. The attachment may comprise: a carrier carrying, for example on one surface thereof, a code according to the first embodiment; an attachment member for attachment to the machine. The attachment member is preferably configured for one bit between the image capture device of the machine and the container (when being received) The carrier is attached to the machine such that the code thereon is in close proximity to the container. In this way, the code can be read by the image capture device as if it were attached to the container. Examples of suitable attachment members include: an extension attached to the carrier that includes a tape (or a planar area for receiving an adhesive) or a mechanical fastener (such as a clip, bolt, or bracket) .

According to a ninth embodiment, the disclosed person is one of the containers as defined in the first embodiment or in the seventh and eighth embodiments as used in a beverage or food preparation machine as defined in the fourth embodiment. A use of the defined attachment.

A use according to a tenth embodiment as disclosed in the first embodiment for encoding a preparation information-code, preferably in the following: a container for a beverage or food preparation machine, the container Used to contain a beverage or food material, as defined in the first embodiment; or an attachment according to the seventh or eighth embodiment.

According to an eleventh embodiment, the present disclosure is a computer program that can be processed in one or more of the code processing subsystems of one of the beverage or food preparation machines as generally defined in the fourth embodiment. Executed on the device to decode the encoded preparation information. The computer program can include code that can be executed by the processor or processors and/or program logic embodied on the processor or processors (which can also include code for implementing the program logic) . The computer program can be operative to decode the information of the code according to any of the features of the first embodiment by any of the features of the third embodiment. The computer program can be further executable to obtain the digital image of the code (eg, by controlling an image capture device).

The functional units substantially as described herein by the computer programs can be implemented in various ways using digital electronic logic, such as one or more ASICs or FPGAs; one or more firmware units, (etc.) configured using stored code; one or more computer programs or other software components (such as modules or algorithms); or any combination thereof. An embodiment can include a special purpose computer that is specifically configured to perform such functions as described herein, and wherein the owner of the functional units includes digital electronic logic; one or more firmware units, It is configured using stored code; or one or more computer programs or other software components, which are stored in a storage medium.

A non-transitory computer readable medium according to a twelfth embodiment is disclosed herein, which comprises a computer program according to the eleventh embodiment. The non-transitory computer readable medium can include a memory unit or other computer readable storage medium of the processor for storing computer readable code thereon for programming a computer. For example, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, a flash memory, and a storage device of a server for downloading the program. The functional units substantially as described herein by the computer programs can be implemented in various ways using digital electronic logic, such as one or more ASICs or FPGAs; one or more firmware units, (etc.) configured using stored code; one or more computer programs or other software components (such as modules or algorithms); or any combination thereof. An embodiment may include a special purpose computer that is specifically configured to perform the functions described herein, and wherein the owner of the functional units includes digital electronic logic; one or more A firmware unit, which is configured using stored code; or one or more computer programs or other software components, which are stored in a storage medium.

According to a thirteenth embodiment, the present disclosure is an information-carrying medium comprising the code according to the first embodiment. In particular, the information-carrying media can comprise any of the containers, any of the attachments as defined herein, or a substrate, such as a tape of other suitable media, as defined herein.

The method of encoding and preparing information according to the second embodiment can be applied to the information carrying medium. The method of preparing information according to the decoding of the third aspect can be applied to the information carrying medium. A beverage or food preparation machine according to a fourth embodiment may be configured to operate with the information-carrying media, for example by means of the container or other suitable component (such as any of the above-described attachments) Attachment. The system according to the fifth can include the information carrying media. The method of preparing a beverage or food product of the sixth embodiment can be adapted to include a digital image of the code that captures the information-carrying media.

The previous summary is provided to provide a general understanding of the aspects of the subject matter described herein. Therefore, the above-mentioned features are merely examples, and should not be construed as limiting the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments may be combined in any suitable combination to provide additional embodiments. In addition, the intent of this document is to be understood as non-limiting. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will be apparent from the following description, the drawings, and claims.

2‧‧‧Beverage or food preparation system

4‧‧‧Beverage or food preparation machine

6‧‧‧ container; capsule; container; small package

10‧‧‧ Shell

12‧‧‧ Fluid supply

14‧‧‧Container Processing Subsystem

16‧‧‧Control subsystem

18‧‧‧ Code Processing Subsystem

20‧‧‧ storage tank

22‧‧‧ fluid pump

24‧‧‧ fluid heat exchanger

26‧‧‧Extraction unit

28‧‧‧Injection head

30‧‧‧Capsule holder

32‧‧‧Capsule mount loading system

34A‧‧‧Capsule insertion channel

34B‧‧‧Capsule discharge channel or 埠

40‧‧‧Agitator unit

42‧‧‧Auxiliary product unit

44‧‧‧ heat exchanger

46‧‧‧Aware holder

48‧‧‧User interface

50‧‧‧Processing subsystem

52‧‧‧ sensor

54‧‧‧Power supply

56‧‧‧Communication interface

58‧‧‧ body part

60‧‧‧ cover part

62‧‧‧Flange section

64‧‧‧Sheet material

66‧‧‧Internal volume

68‧‧‧ Entrance

70‧‧‧Export

74‧‧‧ Code

74A‧‧‧ first code

74B‧‧‧ Code

74C‧‧‧ Code

74D‧‧‧ Code

76‧‧‧ unit

78‧‧‧Information section

80‧‧‧ benchmark part

82‧‧‧data unit

84‧‧‧ reference position

84 ₁ ‧‧‧First reference position

84 ₂ ‧‧‧second reference position

84 ₃ ‧‧‧ third reference position

84 ₄ ‧‧‧fourth reference position

86‧‧‧reference unit; reference position

88‧‧‧Configuration

90‧‧‧ coding area

90A‧‧‧Semi-circular subsection

90B‧‧‧Semi-circular subsection

92‧‧‧Image processing device

94‧‧‧ Attachments

96‧‧‧ Carrier

98‧‧‧ Attachment components

100‧‧‧ Attachments

102‧‧‧ benchmark

104‧‧‧ planar shape

106‧‧‧Image capture device

108‧‧‧Base

110‧‧‧ Subject

112‧‧‧ memory subsystem

114‧‧‧Output device

116‧‧‧ Preparation program

118‧‧‧Discrete position; coding position

R‧‧‧ baseline

D‧‧‧distance

d ₁ ‧‧‧distance

d ₂ ‧‧‧distance

d ₄ ‧‧‧distance

D‧‧‧ code line

D ₂ ‧‧‧ code line

W1‧‧ angular velocity

W2‧‧ angular velocity

V _p ‧‧‧ parameter; value

1 is a simplified diagram of an embodiment of a beverage or food preparation system including a machine and a container in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

2 is a block diagram of a control subsystem and a code processing subsystem for the preparation machine of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

3 is a simplified diagram of a container for the preparation machine of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

4 through 8 are plan views showing the code for the container of Fig. 3 used to scale according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

9-10 are simplified diagrams of attachments for the system of FIG. 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Beverage/food preparation system

A beverage or food preparation system 2, an embodiment of which is illustrated in Figure 1, and comprising: a beverage or food preparation machine 4; a container 6, which is described below.

Preparation machine

The beverage or food preparation machine 4 is operable to treat one of the beverages or food materials (hereafter the material) disposed in the container 6 into a food and/or beverage for consumption and/or consumption. In general, the treatment involves the addition of a fluid (such as water or milk) to the material. A food material as defined herein may comprise a substance that can be processed to be one of the nutrients normally available for consumption, either cold or hot. Generally, the food is a liquid or a gel. Its non-exhaustive example: excellent Grid, mousse, parfait, soup, ice cream, sorbet, cascading, fruit smoothies (smoothies). Generally, the food is a liquid, a gel, or a paste. A beverage material as defined herein may comprise a substance that can be processed into a drinking material that can be cold or hot, non-exhaustive examples of which are: tea, coffee (including ground coffee), hot chocolate, milk, Cordial (cordial). It will be understood that there is a degree of overlap between the two definitions, that is, the machine 4 can prepare both a food product and a beverage.

Machine 4 is generally sized for use on a work top, i.e., having a length, width, and height of less than 70 cm.

Machine 4 includes a housing 10, a container processing subsystem 14, a control subsystem 16, and a code processing subsystem 18.

shell

The outer casing 10 houses and supports the aforementioned machine components and includes: a base 108 for an abutment of a horizontally disposed support surface; and a body 110 for mounting the components thereto.

Container processing subsystem

Depending on the particular embodiment, the container processing subsystem 14 (which may also be considered a preparation unit) may be configured to prepare a food/beverage by processing the materials disposed in one or more single servings. A single use container 6, which is a small package or capsule; a container 6, which is a receptacle for the end user to consume. In particular, the material is treated to effect a change in one of its constituents, for example by dissolution or extraction of one of its constituents. Or mix. Embodiments of each configuration will be discussed. Two or more such configurations may be combined in a single container processing subsystem 14 to prepare a food/beverage, for example, from materials contained in two or more containers 6 that require different processing. In an embodiment, a container processing subsystem 14 can be configured, for example, to simultaneously or sequentially: extract coffee from a capsule containing ground coffee in a pressurized extraction unit; and dilute in a dissolution unit. Milk powder in a small package; to prepare a milk and coffee beverage (such as, for example, cappuccino, cafe latte, or latte macchiato). In other embodiments, a container processing subsystem 14 can, for example, be configured to simultaneously or sequentially: prepare at least a portion of a food/beverage in a container for consumption by an end user in a mixing unit; and possibly dilute The material contained in a container and dispensed into the container; for example, preparing a topping of ice cream or a flavored milkshake. However, within the framework of the present invention, other combinations of features in a single container processing subsystem 14 are possible to allow for the preparation of food/beverages according to other complex recipes.

In general, in all embodiments, the container processing subsystem 14 includes a fluid supply 12 that is operable to supply fluid to the container 6. The fluid is typically water or milk, which may be conditioned (i.e., heated or cooled). The fluid supply 12 generally comprises: a reservoir 20 for containing fluid, in most applications 1 to 5 liters of fluid; a fluid pump 22, such as a reciprocating pump or a rotary pump, which can be powered by an electric motor a motor or an induction coil drive (although in one example, the pump can be replaced by a connection to a mains water supply); an optional fluid heat exchanger 24 (generally a heater), It generally comprises an in-line (thermo block type heater); an outlet for supplying the fluid. Storage tank 20, fluid pump 22. The fluid heater 24, and the outlet are in fluid communication with each other and form a fluid line in any suitable order. The fluid supply 12 can optionally include a sensor to measure the fluid flow rate and/or the amount of fluid delivered. An example of such a type of sensor is a flow meter that can include a Hall sensor or other suitable sensor to measure the rotation of a rotor, providing a signal from one of the sensors to Processing subsystem 50, as will be discussed.

Container handling subsystem for extracting food/beverage from containers

According to a first embodiment, the container processing subsystem 14 is operable to: receive the container 6 containing the material; to process the container 6 to extract one or more components of a beverage or food product therefrom; and to dispense the components to An alternative receptacle for the end user to consume. The container is generally a single serving container (e.g., a capsule or small package) for single use.

One of the container processing subsystems 14 for use with the capsule will initially be described, an example of which is shown in Figure 1A. The container processing subsystem 14 includes an extraction unit 26 that is operable to move between a capsule receiving position and a capsule extraction position. When moving from the capsule extraction position to the capsule receiving position, the extraction unit 26 can be moved through or moved to a capsule discharge position from which a used capsule can be discharged. Extraction unit 26 receives fluid from fluid supply 12 . The extraction unit 26 generally comprises: an injection head 28; a capsule holder 30; a capsule holder loading system 32; a capsule insertion channel 34A; a capsule discharge channel or cassette 34B, which will be described in sequence. .

The injection head 28 is configured to inject fluid into one of the chambers of the capsule 6 when the capsule 6 is held by the capsule mount 30, and an injector has been installed thereto for this purpose, the injector having a fluid supply with the fluid supply 12 The outlet is fluidly connected to one of the nozzles.

The capsule mount 30 is configured to hold the capsule 6 during extraction and is operatively coupled to the injection head 28 for this purpose. The capsule holder 30 is operable to move to implement the capsule receiving position and the capsule extraction position: when the capsule holder is in the capsule receiving position, a capsule 6 can be supplied from the capsule insertion channel 34A to the capsule holder 30; When the holder 30 is in the capsule extraction position, the supplied capsule 6 is held by the holder 30, which injects fluid into the chamber of the held capsule and extracts one or more components therefrom. When the capsule holder 30 is moved from the capsule extraction position to the capsule receiving position, the capsule holder 30 can be moved through or moved to the capsule discharge position, wherein a used capsule 6 can be self-contained via the capsule discharge passage or the cassette 34B. The capsule holder 30 is discharged.

The capsule mount loading system 32 is operable to drive the capsule mount 30 between the capsule receiving position and the capsule extraction position.

The aforementioned extraction unit 26 is generally a pressure extraction unit, such as a container that is hydraulically sealed and subjected to 5 to 20 bars during brewing. In general, the pump is an induction pump. The extraction unit can alternatively be operated by centrifugation, as disclosed in EP 2 594 171 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The container processing subsystem 14 may alternatively comprise a dissolution unit, which is configured as disclosed in EP 1 472 156 and EP 1 784 344, which is incorporated herein by reference.

In embodiments where the container 6 comprises a small package, the container processing subsystem 14 includes an extraction unit and/or a dissolution unit operative to receive the small package and inject fluid from the fluid supply 12 at an inlet thereof. . The injected fluid is mixed with the material in the small package to at least partially prepare the beverage, which exits the small package via an outlet thereof. The container processing subsystem 14 includes a support mechanism for receiving an unused small package and discharging a used small package, and an injector configured to supply fluid from the outlet of the fluid supply to a small package. Further details are provided in WO 2014/125123, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Container processing subsystem for preparing food/beverage in containers for consumption by end users

According to a further embodiment, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 1B, the container processing subsystem 14 is substantially operable to prepare a material stored in a container 6, which is a receptacle (eg, a cup, pot, or other). A suitable receptacle) is configured to hold from about 150 to 350 ml of the prepared product. In this context, the container processing subsystem 14 includes a mixing unit comprising: an agitator unit 40; an optional auxiliary product unit 42; a heat exchanger 44; and a receptacle 46, which will The order describes it and so on.

The agitator unit 40 is operable to agitate the material within the receptacle for the preparation of at least a portion thereof. The agitator unit can comprise any suitable mixing configuration, such as a planetary mixer; a spiral mixer; a vertical cut mixer. In general, the agitator unit 40 includes: an apparatus for mixing having a mixing head for contacting the material; and a driving unit (such as an electric motor or a spiral) Tube) for driving the mixing device. In a preferred embodiment of a planetary mixer, the mixing head includes an agitator that rotates at a radial angular velocity W1 on an offset axis that is rotated at a gyration angular velocity W2. In PCT/EP13/072692, which is incorporated herein by reference.

The auxiliary product unit 42 is operable to supply an auxiliary product (eg, an ingredient) to the container 6. The auxiliary product unit 42 includes: a storage tank for storing the product; and an electrically operated dispensing system for realizing the dispensing of the product from the storage tank.

Heat exchanger 44 is operable to transfer and/or extract thermal energy from vessel 6. In one example of thermal energy transfer, it can include a heater (e.g., a thermal block). In one example of thermal energy extraction, it may include a heat pump (eg, a refrigeration-type cycle heat pump).

The receptacle 46 is operable to support the container 6 during a preparation procedure such that the container remains stationary during the agitation of the material therein by the agitator unit 40. The receptacle 46 is preferably thermally associated with the heat exchanger 44 such that transfer of thermal energy can occur with a supported receptacle.

In one variation of the above, the container processing subsystem 14 further includes a dispensing mechanism for receiving a container 6 (eg, a small package or capsule) and dispensing the associated material into the receptacle, the material The preparation is carried out in the container. An example of this type is disclosed in EP 14167344 A, which is incorporated herein by reference. In one embodiment using this configuration, the container can be a partially collapsible container whereby the container is foldable to dispense the material stored therein. A list of such examples is disclosed in EP 15195547 A, which is incorporated herein by reference. Specifically, one of the containers can The folded portion includes a geometric configuration and/or a weakened portion such that when applied by an axial load of the two portions, the portion is preferentially folded over a retaining portion. In one type of embodiment, the container processing subsystem 14 includes a mechanical actuation device configured to apply an axial load to fold the container, an example of which is provided in a reference application.

Control subsystem

Control subsystem 16 (an example of which is illustrated in Figure 2) is operable to control container processing subsystem 14 to prepare a beverage/food product. Control subsystem 16 generally includes a user interface 48; a processing subsystem 50; an optional sensor 52; a power supply 54; an optional communication interface 56, which will be described in turn.

The user interface 48 includes hardware for enabling an end user to interface with the processing subsystem 50 and thus operatively connect to the processing subsystem 50. More specifically, user interface 48 receives commands from the user; a user interface signal passes the commands to processing subsystem 50 as an input. The commands may be, for example, an instruction to execute a preparation program. The hardware of the user interface 48 may comprise any suitable device(s), for example, the hardware includes one or more of the following: a button (eg, a rocker button or push button); a rocker; an LED; Or character LDC; a graphics screen with touch and/or screen edge buttons.

An optional sensor 52 is operatively coupled to the processing subsystem 50 to provide an input for monitoring the program. The sensor 52 generally includes one or more of the following: a fluid temperature sensor; a fluid level sensor; a position sensor (eg, for sensing a position of the extraction unit 26); flow rate and/or flow rate Sensor.

Processing subsystem 50 (which may be referred to as a processor) is generally operable to: receive an input (ie, from user interface 48 and/or from sensor 52); stored in a memory The code on the subsystem (or programmed logic) processes the input; an output is provided which is generally the preparation procedure. The program can be executed in an open-loop control, or preferably using an input signal from the sensor 52 as a reverse-loop control. Processing subsystem 50 generally includes memory, input and output system components, which are configured as an integrated circuit, typically a microprocessor or a microcontroller. Processing subsystem 50 may include other suitable integrated circuits, such as: an ASIC; a programmable logic device (e.g., an FPGA); and an analog integrated circuit (e.g., a controller). Processing subsystem 50 may also include one or more of the integrated circuits previously mentioned (i.e., multiple processors).

Processing subsystem 50 generally includes or is in communication with a memory subsystem 112 (which may be referred to as a memory unit) for storage of code and, optionally, data. The memory subsystem 112 generally includes: a non-volatile memory (such as EPROM, EEPROM, or flash) for storing code and operating parameters; volatile memory (RAM) for data Store. The code generally includes a preparation program 116 that is executable to implement a preparation program. The memory subsystem can include separate memory and/or integrated memory (eg, on one of the processors).

Power supply 54 is operable to supply electrical energy to processing subsystem 50, container processing subsystem 14, and fluid supply 12, as will be discussed. The power supply 54 can include various components (e.g., a battery pack or a unit) to receive and regulate a mains electrical supply.

The communication interface 56 is used to prepare data communication between the machine 4 and another device/system (generally a server system). The communication interface 56 can be used to supply and/or receive information about the preparation process (e.g., container consumption information and/or preparation program information). The communication interface 56 can be configured for wired or wireless media or a combination thereof (eg, such as RS-232, USB, I ² C, one of the Ethernet connections defined by IEEE 802.3; such as a wireless LAN) (eg IEEE 802.11) or near field communication (NFC) or a cellular system (eg GPRS or GSM) one of the wireless connections). Communication interface 56 is operatively coupled to processing subsystem 50. In general, the communication interface includes a separate processing unit (examples of which are provided above) to control communication hardware (e.g., an antenna) to interface with the main processing subsystem 50. However, a less complex configuration, such as a simple wired connection, can be used for direct serial communication with processing subsystem 50.

Code processing subsystem

The code processing subsystem 18 is operable to: acquire an image of a code on the container 6; process the image to decode the encoded information including, for example, the preparation information. The code processing subsystem 18 includes: an image capture device 106; an image processing device 92; an output device 114, which will be described in sequence.

The image capture device 106 is operable to capture a digital image of the code and transmit the image as digital data to the image processing device 92. In order to be able to scale the digital image to be determined: when the digital image is acquired, the image capturing device 106 is configured to be a predetermined distance from the code; in an example in which the image capturing device 106 includes a lens, the magnification of the lens Preferably, it is stored in a memory of the image processing device 92 on. Image capture device 106 includes any suitable optical device for capturing a digital image comprised of the microcell code composition discussed below. The code forms a microcell composition that can have a very small size (e.g., a few millimeters) to facilitate its in a food/preparation machine 4 (e.g., in the container processing subsystem 14). Integration. Moreover, such image capture devices are well known mechanically simple and reliable components that do not impair the overall functional reliability of the machine. Examples of suitable optical devices are: Sonix SN9S102; Snap Sensor S2 imager; an oversampled binary image sensor.

Image processing device 92 is operatively coupled to image capture device 106 and is operable to process the digital data to decode the encoded information therein. The processing of this digital data is discussed below. Image processing device 92 can include a processor (eg, a microcontroller or an ASIC). Alternatively, it may include the aforementioned processing subsystem 50, which in one such embodiment will be understood to be integrated within the processing subsystem 50. For this process, image processing device 92 typically includes a code processing program. An example of a suitable image processing device is the Texas Instruments TMS320C5517.

Output device 114 is operatively coupled to image processing device 92 and is operative to output digital data containing decoded information to processing subsystem 50 (e.g., via a serial interface).

container

Depending on the embodiment of the container processing subsystem 14, the container 6 can comprise: a receptacle containing material for its preparation and end user consumption; a capsule or small A package containing materials for preparation therefrom. The container 6 can be formed from a variety of materials such as metal or plastic or a combination thereof. Generally, the material is selected such that it is: food safe; can withstand the pressure and/or temperature of the preparation process. Suitable examples of containers are provided below.

The container 6 generally comprises, when not in the form of a small package: a body portion 58 defining a chamber for storing one of the materials; a cover portion 60 for closing the chamber; a flange portion 62 for attaching the body portion to the flange portion, the flange portion being disposed substantially at a distal end of a base of one of the chambers. The body portion can comprise various shapes such as a dish, a truncated cone, or a rectangular section. Thus, it will be appreciated that the capsule 6 can take a variety of forms, an example of which is provided in Figure 3A, which can extend generally to a receptacle or capsule, as defined herein. When configured to have an internal volume of 150 to 350 ml and preferably one of 6 to 10 cm in diameter and an axial length of 4 to 8 cm, the distinguishable container 6 is a receptacle for the end user to consume therefrom. In a similar manner, when configured to have an internal volume of less than 100 or 50 ml and preferably one of 2 to 5 cm in diameter and an axial length of 2 to 4 cm, it can be distinguished for extracting one of the capsules. The container 6 in a collapsible configuration may comprise an internal volume of 5 ml to 250 ml.

When in the form of a small package as shown in Figure 3B, the container 6 generally comprises: one of the sheets of material 64 (e.g., one or more sheets joined at the periphery) defining an interior volume 66 for storage One of the materials is used; an inlet 68 for allowing fluid to flow into the interior volume 66; and an outlet 70 for allowing fluid and material to flow from the interior volume. In general, the inlet 68 and the outlet 70 are disposed on a body of an attachment (not shown) that is attached to the sheet material. The sheet material can be made of various materials (for example, metal foil or plastic or a combination thereof) is formed. In general, the internal volume 66 can be 150 to 350 ml or 200 to 300 ml or 50 to 150 ml, depending on the application.

Information encoded by code

One of the containers 6 code 74 encodes the preparation information, which generally contains information about the associated preparation program. Depending on the embodiment of the container processing subsystem 14, the information may encode one or more parameters, which may include one or more of the following: a fluid pressure; a fluid temperature (at the inlet of the container and/or to a fluid mass/volume flow rate; a fluid volume; a phase identifier for when a preparation process is segmented into a series of stages, whereby each stage comprises a set of one or more of the aforementioned parameters ( There are typically 4 to 10 stages); the duration of the stage (eg a duration for the execution of a parameter of the stage); the recipe and/or the container identifier for holding in a container that requires two or more containers When the material is processed; container geometry parameters (eg shape/volume); other container parameters, such as a container identifier, which can be used to monitor container consumption, for example, for container reordering purposes; an expiration date; A symbol that can be used to find a recipe stored on the memory of the beverage machine for use with the container.

Specifically, in the case of a preparation machine 4 (such as that depicted in FIG. 1A), the encoded parameters may include any one or more of the following: a pressure; a temperature; a fluid volume; a fluid flow. Rate; a specific preparation phase time, the aforementioned one or more parameters are performed at the time; a phase identifier (eg, a text identifier) for identifying one or more of the aforementioned parameters and which of the plurality of stages Related; one recipe identification A pre-wetting time, which is the amount of time the material of the container can be soaked during an initial preparation stage; a pre-wetting volume which is the amount of fluid volume applied during this stage.

Specifically, in the case of a preparation machine 4 (such as that depicted in FIG. 1B), the encoded parameters may include one or more of the following: a percentage of cooling or heating power to be applied (eg, by heat exchange) The power applied by the device 44; a torque applied by the agitator unit 40; one or more angular velocities (eg, a rotational angular velocity and radial angular velocity W1, W2); a vessel temperature (eg, by the heat exchanger 44) Set the temperature); the time of a specific preparation phase, the one or more parameters are performed at the time; the phase identifier (eg, a numeric identifier) is used to identify the one or more parameters and the plurality of stages One is related.

Code configuration

The code is disposed on one of the outer surfaces of the container 6 in any suitable location such that it can be processed by the code processing subsystem 18. In an example of a receptacle/capsule 6 discussed above, as shown in Figure 3A, the code can be disposed on any of its exterior surfaces (e.g., a cover, body, or flange portion). In an example of a small package 6 discussed above, as shown in Figure 3B, the code can be disposed on any of its exterior surfaces (e.g., on either or both sides of the package, including the outer edge).

A plurality of codes may be formed on the container 6 (e.g., for reading error checking; and/or having separate stages of preparing the program by one of the respective code codes). In particular, the planar shape of the code (as will be discussed) may comprise an at least partially tessellated shape (eg, a rectangle, such as a square) whereby the codes are at least partially inlaid Means (eg, a grid of adjacent rows aligned or offset by adjacent rows) are formed on a container.

Code composition

Code 74 (and an example thereof is shown in FIG. 4) is configured to encode the preparation information in a manner that is captured by image capture device 106. More specifically, the code is formed by a plurality of cells 76 (preferably microcells) surrounded by a different color: in general, the cells comprise a dark color (eg, one of the following: black, Dark blue, purple, dark green), and the surround contains a light color (such as one of the following: white, light blue, yellow, light green) or vice versa, so that there is sufficient contrast between the equals for the image processing device 92 to make a difference. Unit 76 can have one or a combination of the following shapes: a circle; a triangle; a polygon, particularly a quadrilateral (e.g., a square or parallelogram); other known suitable shapes. It will be appreciated that the aforementioned shape may be approximated by one of the actual shapes due to a formation error (eg, a printing error). Unit 76 typically has a unit length of 50 to 200 [mu]m (e.g., 60, 80, 100, 120, 150 [mu]m). The length of the unit is a suitably defined distance of one of the units, for example: for a circular shape system diameter; for a square system side length; for a polygon system relative to a diameter or distance between the vertices; for a triangle system hypotenuse. Unit 76 is preferably configured with an accuracy of about 1 [mu]m.

Although the code is meant to include a plurality of elements, it will be understood that the elements may be referred to as elements or labels.

In general, unit 76 is formed by printing (e.g., by an ink printer); embossing; marking; other known means. For example, one printing ink can be based printing machine of conventional ink, and the substrate may be: polyethylene terephthalate (the PET); painted aluminum (such as those seen in the Nespresso ^TM Classic ^TM capsule) Or other suitable substrate. As an example of embossing, the shape can be pressed into a plastically deformable substrate (such as the aforementioned painted aluminum) by a printer. The cost of forming a code on a container 6 can thus be kept low by using conventional and inexpensive techniques, so that the cost of forming the code does not significantly affect the production cost of the container 6.

The code includes a planar shape 104 in which the unit 76 is configured. The planar shape can be circular or rectangular (as shown in Figure 4). In general, the planar shape has a length of 600 to 1600 μm or about 1100 μm (i.e., a diameter of a circular planar shape and a side of a square planar shape), which will depend on the number of parameters encoded. The code 74 of the present invention thus allows for the encoding of a number of parameter values on a small surface, thereby allowing the encoding of all of the necessary parameters for completing a complex recipe by a beverage or food preparation machine in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Code 74, for example, allows for the encoding of information required for a recipe containing several stages of processing that use food contained within one or more containers.

Unit 76 is organized into: a data portion 78 for encoding the preparation information; and a reference portion 80 for providing a reference for the data portion 78, both of which are described in more detail below.

The reference portion 80 includes a plurality of reference cells 86 that define a linear reference line r . The baseline r provides a reference direction for use by the data portion 78 as an angular reference, as will be discussed. The reference unit generally defines a configuration 88 that defines a reference point 102 from which the reference line r extends. However, in another example (not shown), a single reference cell can be configured at the reference point whereby the reference cell can be identified as being different from one of the other cells containing the code in shape, color, size One or a combination.

The data portion 78 includes a data unit 82 disposed on one of the code lines D intersecting the reference line r . The code line D is circular and is configured to have a line to it that is orthogonal to the reference line r at the intersection. In general, the data unit can occupy any continuous distance d along the intersection of the code line D from the code line and the reference line r as a variable to encode one of the parameters of the preparation information. In this regard, a wide range of information can be encoded. Continuous encoding of a parameter is particularly advantageous when encoding parameters, which can have a large range of values (e.g., torque and angular velocity). Alternatively, data unit 82 may occupy only a discrete location along the encoded line D (i.e., one of a plurality of predetermined locations) as a variable to encode the parameter.

Detailed description of the code

The code 74 (an example of which is shown in Fig. 4) contains the aforementioned configuration of the code line D and the reference line r . It should be noted that in Figure 4 (and its successors): reference line r , code line D ; plane shape 104; code area 90; and various other constructive lines are shown for illustrative purposes, that is to say , etc., which do not require entities to form part of the code. Rather, when processing an image of the code, it can be virtually defined, such as the discussant.

The code line D intersects the reference line r at a reference position 84. A reference location 84 may or may not include a reference unit 86, as will be discussed. Roughly, there are a plurality of code lines D (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5) that are arranged in a concentric manner and intersect the reference line r at a plurality of different reference positions 84, whereby each has At least partially encoding one of the parameters of the data unit. The data portion 78 generally includes a code region 90 defined by the code line D , within which the data unit 82 is disposed.

The reference position 84 herein and the associated data unit 82 and code line D are numbered by a numerical subscript and include the reference position 84 of the proximity configuration 88 (which will be discussed) having the smallest number, successively increasing to The digital maximum reference position 84 at the distal end of the configuration 88 (eg, the second reference position system 84 ₂ , the associated coding line D ₂ , and the distance system d ₂ , and the third reference position system 84 ₃ , are associated) The coding line D ₃ and the distance system d ₃ , as shown in Figure 4).

The distance d is defined as a position from the reference position 84 along the code line D to the code line D , a center of the data unit 82 is disposed at the position, or is configured to be in close proximity to the position (eg, in the pass data unit 82) The line of the center intersects at a position on the code line D ) whereby the line is orthogonal to the code line D at the intersection. The distance d can be defined in terms of a circumferential distance or an angular distance.

The reference portion 80 includes m reference cells 86 (three are shown in Figure 4A) that are configured to at least partially define a linear reference line r , where m is at least a number of two. In particular, the baseline r extends through a plurality of points defined by a reference unit and/or configuration 88, as will be discussed.

Configuration 88 includes a feature configuration of one of the reference cells that is not repeated elsewhere in the code. Therefore, it can be easily identified when processing the code. Because of the processing overhead, it is preferred that the reference cells of the configuration all have phases. Same individual configuration. Individual configurations herein are used to mean one or more of shape, color, and size. In general, all three are identical for these units. The comparison is additionally identified by a more computationally intensive individual configuration (eg via color and/or shape), in such a way that only those units need to be identified as being present. The configured feature shape can thus be identified by the point of the reference unit (typically the center point). For the sake of this, it is preferred to have other units that contain the same individual configuration code as those of the configuration. Other elements of the code may include all or one or more of the elements: additional reference units (i.e., those other than those configured); one or more of the data units.

This configuration can be configured in a variety of shapes (such as triangles, squares, or other polygons). In general, the polygonal configuration has up to 8 vertices, may or may not contain a reference unit at the center, and may be equiangular or asymmetrical. Non-limiting examples of the configuration for this configuration are shown in Figures 4 and 5, wherein: Figure 4A shows a right-angled triangle; Figure 4B shows an equilateral triangle; Figure 5A shows an isosceles triangle; 5B shows a square; FIG. 5C shows a kite; FIG. 5D shows a kite shape having a reference unit disposed at the center; FIG. 5E shows a pentagon; FIG. 5F shows a A particular configuration of right triangles, etc., will be discussed. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the reference line r may extend from a reference point, the reference point being configured at least in one of the group consisting of the following geometric nouns for the configuration: a symmetry Center; a center of mass; a line of symmetry. Additionally or alternatively, the line r may extend through or parallel to one or more reference cells of the configuration.

As shown in the non-limiting example of Figures 4A, 5A, 5C, 5D, and 5F, the configuration can have a configuration by which one of the directions of the reference line r can be uniquely identified. The direction of the baseline can be approximated, which will be discussed in more detail below. This configuration can be achieved by configuring the configuration to have a single line of symmetry through which the reference line r extends, whereby the spacing of the reference cells can be utilized to distinguish the line direction. An example of this is shown in Figures 5A, 5C, and 5D. The configuration can be achieved by configuring the configuration to have a side defined by one or more reference cells, the reference line r extending through the side or parallel to the side, in particular, the side can have a reference A feature spacing of the cells and/or a particular orientation relative to other reference cells of the configuration. An example of this is shown in Figures 4A and 5F, whereby the elements defining the orientation of the reference line r are in the further most counterclockwise direction, or alternatively, an "L" shaped erect is formed. Direction. In the specific example of FIG. 5F, the vertices of the triangle are thus arranged on a circular line that is concentric with the code line such that the reference point is disposed at the center of the circular line. This type of configuration is particularly small because the circular wire can have a diameter of 150 to 300 μm.

This configuration can be configured as a reference point 102 at the center of the circular coded line D. One advantage is that the center of the one-pole coordinate system can be conveniently determined by locating the configuration and finding the reference point. In the illustrated embodiment, the configuration is fully positioned within a trajectory defined by the code line D or each code line D. However, in other embodiments, it can be positioned outside of the trajectory or a combination of internal and external.

In an embodiment, the code can include a plurality of discrete locations 118 whereby the discrete locations include or do not contain a unit. In FIG. 6, discrete locations 118 are shown for illustrative purposes only, that is, they are not required to be formed as part of the code, but rather, when processing one of the images of the code, they may be virtually Defined, as will be discussed. Discrete locations 118 can be configured at various locations. There may be one or more discrete locations 118 (e.g., any number up to 40). The discrete locations 118 may be circumferentially disposed about one or more circular lines concentric with the code line(s) D in an equidistant position from each other. Alternatively, discrete location 118 can have an arbitrary configuration.

One or more of the discrete locations 118 may form a component of the reference portion 80. Moreover, one or more of the discrete locations 118 may form a component of the data portion 78 such that it at least partially encodes a parameter of the preparation information. In an embodiment, the discrete locations 118 are disposed outside the aforementioned trajectory of the code line or each code line D, wherein there is sufficient space to have a suitable plurality of such positions, and the configuration is shown in FIG. In a non-limiting illustrative example. In other embodiments, they may be arranged outside of the track or a combination of internal and external.

In an advantageous embodiment, the code includes the discrete locations 118 in combination with a configuration 88, which can be identified by the configuration as discussed above, this embodiment being shown in the figures 6. Referring to the drawings, it will be appreciated that the general direction of the reference line r can be determined by configuration in the manner discussed above with respect to Figure 4A. Once the baseline r is defined, the discrete locations 118 can be determined (i.e., via a stored relationship) and a unit checked. In the presence of one or more units, one or more of the unit or units (preferably the center of the unit) may be used to refine the direction of the reference line r. In this embodiment, it will be appreciated that it would be advantageous to have discrete locations 118 for this purpose disposed outside the track of the code line or code lines D.

Discrete locations are particularly advantageous for encoding parameters that can only take specific values (eg, one or more of a phase number, expiration date, container identifier). As an example of coding, there are n discrete locations 118, each of which encodes a bit by the absence or presence of a data unit 82. Whereby: three for the position encoder 118 is 2 ³ (i.e., eight) variables; for four encoders 118 has two position ^four (i.e., 16) variable. The foregoing variables may be used to encode: a stage of a specific quantity, such as 8 or 16 stages; an expiration date, such as 12 variables for the month, and a variable of the appropriate amount starting from the product release date for the year.

Instead of being one of the portions that use the discrete position as the reference portion, the reference portion may include an additional reference unit that is disposed at a radial location and/or at a distance from the configuration unit that is further from the configuration. The configuration is at a predetermined reserved radial position. One advantage is that the reference line r can be conveniently identified by locating the configuration and then locating an additional reference unit that is configured furthest from the configuration or at a predetermined distance. The additional reference unit can be defined as being disposed at the distance from the reference point. The baseline r can be defined as extending through the center of the additional reference unit. The further reference unit is preferably positioned outside of the trajectory defined by the code line or code lines D.

In one embodiment, there may be a plurality of such codes 74, wherein a reference line r of a code 74A is by a similar configuration of its reference unit configuration 88 and another code 74B to 74D reference unit. determination. One advantage is that in a particular code, in addition to their configuration 88, no additional reference cells are needed, thereby maximizing the code density of the codes. In particular, the baseline r may extend through a reference point 102 defined by the configuration of one or more additional codes (eg, an additional code configured to be adjacent thereto) whereby the planar shape of the codes shares a Shared side. Alternatively, if an adjacent code is offset, the reference line r can be defined to extend from the reference point of the adjacent code with the offset. 7A and 7B illustrate a non-limiting example of such an embodiment. As depicted in Figure 7A, the baseline r can be configured to extend through a reference point defined by a configuration 88 of one or more other codes 74C (preferably an adjacent code). As depicted in Figure 7B, the reference line r can extend at a known location relative to adjacent codes 74B, 74C, 74D.

The reference line r can be configured to be a predetermined minimum distance (e.g., 50 [mu]m to 150 [mu]m or 100 [mu]m) from the coding region 90 of the data portion 78 to ensure proper separation of the reference unit 86 from the data unit 82 (i.e., a radially extending portion) Cut from its ring shape). This type of example is preferred when the reference location includes a reference unit 86.

Alternatively, as shown in the illustrated example, the reference line r extends through the code region 90 (i.e., it radially intersects its annular shape).

The data portion 78 generally includes a coding region 90 that is annular and has its data unit 82 disposed thereon whereby the reference line r extends radially from a center of the annular coding region 90. The code line D is arranged in a concentric manner and extends from the reference line r around the center of the ring code region 90. An intersection between the code line D and the reference line r is locally orthogonal and defines a reference position 84. Each data unit 82 can have a corresponding reference unit 86 at the associated reference location 84. Advantageously, the reference position is easy to position. Or (as shown), preferably, the reference position 84 does not have a reference unit 86, whereby the reference position 84 is virtually defined on the reference line r (eg, by a distance from an adjacent reference) One of the units 86 is interpolated by a predetermined distance. Advantageously, the data units can be configured to be closer to the baseline r .

More than one data unit 82 can be configured along an encoding line D , for example such that a plurality of parameters are encoded on an encoded line D , or such that each parameter has a plurality of values associated therewith. An example will be provided. A value of a parameter is encoded by the circumferential distance d of the data unit 82 from its associated reference position 84.

To ensure proper spacing between data units on adjacent code lines, an optional block shaded area configured to be coaxial with the code line D defines the boundaries of the location of the associated data unit 82. Blocky shaded areas are shown for illustrative purposes only, that is, they do not require entities to form part of the code, but rather, when processing an image of the code, they may be virtually defined, such as Discussant.

In general, a data unit 82 can be placed at any location on the associated code line D , up to but not extending beyond the reference position 84 (i.e., up to 360° from the baseline r ).

Post code

Each data unit 82 optionally encodes post material for an associated parameter. The post-data is generally discretely coded (ie, it can only take certain values). Various examples of post-coding data are provided below.

In a first embodiment (an example of which is illustrated in Figure 8A), the post-data is encoded as a feature size of data unit 82 (e.g., the size defined by the length or area of the unit as defined above). The size is recognized by the image processing device 92 as a variable. In particular, the size may be one of 2 or 3 or 4 lists of a particular size (eg, selected from a length of 60, 80, 100, 120 μm). In a specific example (which is best illustrated for data unit 82 associated with third reference location 84 ₃ ), data unit 82 may be one of three sizes. In a specific example (which is shown in association with the second reference position 84 ₄ ), three parameters are encoded (and thus three data units), and the data unit 82 of each parameter can be made up of three different data units 82. The size of the post-set data to identify.

In a second embodiment (an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 8B), the post-data is encoded as a feature location of the data unit 82 relative to the data unit 82 along a bias line. The bias line extends upward in a direction orthogonal to the code line D (i.e., a radial distance and/or a distance orthogonal to the line drawn from the code line D to the center of the data unit 82). Despite this offset, code line D still intersects data unit 82. In particular: the data unit 82 can be offset relative to the code line D in a first position or a second position to encode two values of the data set; the data unit 82 can be offset in the first or second position Or in a third position on the code line D , to encode the three values of the data. The first position and the second position may be defined by a center of the data unit 82 disposed at a specific distance (e.g., at least 20 [mu]m) from the code line D. The third position may be defined by a center of the data unit 82 disposed at less than a specific distance (e.g., less than 5 [mu]m) from the code line D. In a specific example (which is depicted in association with the third reference location 84 ₃ ), the data unit 82 can be in a first location or a second location to encode the data. In a specific example (which is shown in association with the second reference position 84 ₂ ), three parameters are encoded (and thus have three data units), and the data unit 82 of each parameter can be followed by the position of the data unit 82. Set the data to identify.

In a third embodiment (an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 8C and referenced to a third reference position 84 ₃ ), the post-data is encoded as one or two data units 82 relative to the data unit at the baseline One of the feature locations on either side of r . As an example: a data unit 82 on the left side of the reference line r may encode a negative value of one of the parameters, and a data unit 82 on the right side of the reference line r may encode one of the parameters positive or vice versa; for the same parameter, the reference A data unit 82 on the left side of the line r can encode a mantissa, and a data unit 82 on the right side of the reference line r can encode an index or an opposite configuration; a data unit 82 on the left side of the reference line r can be coded the same as the parameter on the right side. The parameters are such that an average value can be used for enhanced accuracy. In this embodiment, the coding region 90 is preferably separated into two distinct semi-circular sub-sections 90A, 90B, each having a data unit 82 associated with one of them. For example, the maximum distance d for either is on (or close to) the portion of the reference line r that is shared with the second and third quadrants such that the two data units are not configured to coincide.

In a fourth embodiment (an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 8D and referenced to a third reference position 84 ₃ ), the post-data is encoded as a plurality of data units 82, which are along the same code line D. Configuration, each having a different associated distance d _n . Advantageously, the distance d may be an overall increase in accuracy as determined by a function (typically a line average) distance of the _n-d. In the illustrated example, two data units 82 are displayed, where d = 0.5 ( d ₁ + d ₂ ).

In a fifth embodiment (not shown), the post-data is encoded as a feature shape. For example, the shape can be one of one of the following: a circle; a triangle; a polygon. In a sixth embodiment (not shown), the post data is encoded as a feature color. For example, the color can be one of one of the following: red; green; blue, suitable for identification by an RGB image sensor.

The first to sixth embodiments may be combined as appropriate, for example, an encoded parameter may have a post material encoded in a combination of one of the first and second embodiments.

A specific example of code 74 for use with the second embodiment of container processing subsystem 14 is illustrated in Figure 8E, wherein: first 84 ₁ , third 84 ₃ , and fourth 84 ₄ reference locations 86 have Associated with one of the data units 82, which encodes a parameter without any post-data; the second reference position 84 ₂ has three data units 82, each of which encodes a parameter having a first and second implementation according to the first and second implementations One of the examples combines the encoded post-set data (i.e., three values for the size of the unit, and three values for the location of the unit, thus having a total of nine possible post-data values).

Specifically, the first reference position 84 encodes a percentage of cooling power to be applied; the third and fourth reference positions 84 encode either one of a radial angular velocity W1 and a rotational angular velocity W2; the second reference position takes time, temperature, torque Encoded as individual small, medium, and large data units in a specific location, whereby these parameters represent triggers such that when a condition set by one of them is reached, the stage encoded by code 74 Then compete.

Method of processing code

The code processing subsystem 18 processes the code 74 to determine the preparation information by: obtaining a digital image of the code via the image capturing device 106; processing the digital data of the digital image via the image processing device 92 to decode the preparation information; 114 outputs the decoded preparation information.

Processing the digital data includes: locating the units 82, 86 in the code; identifying the reference unit 86 and thereby determining a baseline r ; determining, for each data unit 82, a distance from the reference line r along the associated code line D d; converting the distance d is determined by an actual value of a parameter V _p, which is the like of each will be described sequentially.

The positioning units 82, 86 in the code are substantially associated with converting a pixel represented in the digital data into a one-bit bi-tonal black and white image (ie, a binary image), thereby associating The conversion parameters are set to distinguish the base levels around the cells and their surroundings. Alternatively, an oversampling binary image sensor can be used as image capture device 106 to provide binary images. The positioning of the cell center can be determined by a feature extraction technique such as a circle Hough Transform. Cells of different sizes can be identified by pixel integration.

The identification of the reference unit 86 and thus the determination of a baseline r generally comprises a configuration 88 of one of the identification reference units. A configuration of the identification reference unit can include positioning reference units having a specific unique configuration, as discussed above. In particular, the stored information about the center point geometry of the configured reference unit can be used to search for this configuration in the located unit.

Self-configuration 88 determining the baseline r may include determining a reference point 102 from the configuration from which the baseline r extends. In particular, the location relative to the configured reference point may be the portion of the aforementioned stored information. From the configuration determination baseline r may further comprise determining the baseline as one or more reference cells extending through or parallel to the configuration.

From this configuration decision line r can further include identifying a unit that is disposed at at least one of the plurality of discrete locations 118, as discussed above. In particular, it may include refining an initial vector of the reference line r by using the at least one discrete location unit, the reference line being determined using configuration 88 (eg, FIG. 4A, FIG. 5A, FIG. 5C, And Figure 5D). Alternatively, it may comprise determining a reference unit having a radial position further from the configuration than the data unit and/or at a predetermined retained radial position from the configuration.

In an embodiment comprising a plurality of such codes 74 (as illustrated in FIG. 7), determining the baseline r for a first code 74A can include determining the baseline as a configuration extending from the first code Reference point 102 of 88, and extending through a reference point defined by the configuration of at least one other code 74B to 74D, or extending relative to the reference point. It will be understood that the configuration of the baseline relative to the reference point of the additional code is a stored relationship.

In an embodiment in which the code does not include a configuration, the identification of the reference unit 86 and thereby determining a baseline r can be achieved by identifying one or a combination of: a unit having a linear configuration; a predetermined distance A unit of distance and/or maximum distance; a unit of a specific shape or size or color; a unit having a specific configuration.

Determining the reference point and the baseline r while processing the code allows the orientation of the code in the captured image to be determined prior to decoding the information. Therefore, the image of the code can be captured in any direction without affecting the accuracy of the decoding. The container hosting the code therefore does not need to be relative to the shadow The picking device is aligned to a particular orientation, thereby simplifying the construction of the machine and the handling of the containers in the machine.

Determining, for each data unit 82, a distance d along the associated code line D from the associated reference position 84 of the reference line r can be determined from the center of a data unit 82 (or after encoding via the second embodiment) In the case of the case, the position of the line from the center of the data unit that intersects the code line D orthogonally) to the circumferential distance of the associated reference position 84 is achieved. This is conveniently achieved by the following product: an angle between the reference line r and a radial line to the data unit 82 (unit system ;); and the overall perimeter of the code line D (which is related) Associated with reference position 84). Alternatively, determining the distance d may include determining an angular distance (ie, by an angle (unit system 弪) between the reference line r and one of the radial lines of the data unit 8 (generally its center), whereby The radial distance can be used to identify the data unit relative to a reference position. The latter is preferred because fewer processing steps are required and, in addition, precise radial distances are not required, eliminating the need for compensation for optional post-data encoding.

When the image is captured, the determined distance d can be corrected using the magnification of the image capture device 106 and/or the distance of the image capture device from the code 74.

The conversion is determined by the distance d to the actual value of one parameter may comprise a V _p by using information stored (e.g., upon storage subsystem information in the memory 112), one of which defines the relationship between the parameters and the distance d. This step can be performed at image processing device 92 or processing subsystem 50. The relationship can be linear (eg V _p d ). Or it can be non-linear. A nonlinear relationship can contain a one-to-one relationship (eg V _p Log( d )) or an exponential relationship (eg V _p e ^d ). This type of relationship is particularly advantageous when the accuracy of a parameter is important at low values and less important or opposite at high values (eg, for a second embodiment of the container processing subsystem 14, the mixing unit) The accuracy of the angular velocities W1, W2 is more important at a low angular velocity than at a high angular velocity, so an exponential relationship is preferred).

As the circumference of the coded line D decreases as it approaches the center of the annular coding region 90 (i.e., the configuration of configuration 88 in the illustrated example), the accuracy of the determined distance d is small. Advantageously, parameters requiring a higher level of accuracy can be placed at the distal end of the center, and parameters that do not require a high level of accuracy can be placed at the proximal end of the center. As an example, for the second embodiment of the container processing subsystem 14, the accuracy of the angular velocity W1, W2 of the mixing unit is more important, so that it is positioned at the distal end of the center, while the percentage of cooling power Accuracy is less important, so it is positioned at the proximal end of the center.

The foregoing information about the parameters may be determined according to the coded embodiment. For example, in the first embodiment, the unit length is determined by feature extraction for the associated data unit 82 or the total area is determined by pixel integration; In the second embodiment, one of the code lines D is biased by the feature extraction decision for the associated data unit 82; in the third and fourth embodiments, the center of the associated data unit is determined by feature extraction.

Referring to FIG 6 of illustrative example, in an embodiment comprising discrete position 118, the processing of digital data may further comprise determining 118 positioned discrete locations and the like which determines whether a data unit 82 comprises; a parameter derived therefrom, and V _p V _p is a parameter or a feature which may be encoded by data line D unit 82 is encoded.

Determining the location of the discrete location 118 may include identifying the location using the baseline r . It may further comprise using: stored information (ie, information stored on the memory subsystem 112), such as having a known number of discrete locations 118 at known locations with respect to the location of the baseline r; And/or a configuration of a data unit 82 along a code line D that can encode the number and configuration of discrete locations (e.g., specific configurations of certain location code discrete locations 118 of data unit 82). Determining whether the discrete location contains a data unit 82 may include feature extraction or other known techniques. Deriving a data unit from the parameters V _p 82 in the presence of at discrete locations 118 a may include information used upon storage (e.g., stored in the memory subsystem via a look-up table 112) to decode the encoded (or a Parameters).

According to an embodiment of the code, the value of V _p of another parameter required for the preparation of the desired data of each encoding unit d along a line D of the code corresponding to a distance of 82 coded food / beverage. For example, each data unit 82 encoding a distance d along a code line D encodes a value of a processing parameter for a particular preparation stage (eg, a processing temperature, a processing time, a liquid volume, a mixing speed, etc.) This parameter is different from the parameter whose value is encoded by other such data unit 82 of the code.

Machine and container attachments

An attachment 94 can include the aforementioned code 74 disposed on one surface of the attachment, the attachment 94 being configured for attachment to the aforementioned beverage or food preparation machine 4. The attachment (an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 9) includes: a carrier 96 for carrying the code 74; an attachment member 98 for imaging the device 106 at the machine 4 and The carrier 96 is attached to the machine 4 between a container 6 received by the machine 4 adjacent to the container. In this manner, an image of code 74 can be retrieved by image capture device 106 as if it were attached to container 6. An example of a suitable attachment member includes: attached to the load The extension of the body, comprising a tape (as shown); a mechanical fastener (such as a clip, bolt, or bracket). It is particularly useful to use this type of attachment 94 in the following situations: only one type of container 6 is used on the machine 4; a cleaning or other maintenance related operation is required.

An alternative attachment 100 can include the aforementioned code 74 that is disposed on a surface of the attachment that is configured for attachment to any of the aforementioned containers 6. Attachment 100 (an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 10) includes a carrier 96 for carrying code 74 and an attachment member 98 for attaching carrier 96 to container 6. In this manner, an image of code 74 can be retrieved by image capture device 106 as if it were integrally formed on container 6. Examples of suitable attachment members include: a tape (as shown); a mechanical fastener (such as a clip, bolt, or bracket). It is particularly useful to use such a type of attachment 94 in the following manner: a recipe defined by an end user is applied to the container 6; a cleaning or other maintenance related operation is required; a base separate from the container 6 Forming the code 74 on the material and attaching the substrate to the container is more cost effective.

Component symbol

2 beverage or food preparation system

4 beverage or food preparation machine

10 shell

108 base

110 subject

14 container processing subsystem

12 fluid supply

20 storage tank

22 fluid pump

24 fluid heat exchanger

Example 1

26 extraction unit

28 injection head

30 capsule holder

32 capsule mount loading system

34A capsule insertion channel

34B capsule discharge channel

Example 2

40 agitator unit

42 auxiliary product unit

44 heat exchanger

46 container holder

16 control subsystem

48 user interface

50 processing subsystem

112 memory subsystem

116 preparation program

52 sensors (temperature, container level, flow rate, torque, speed)

54 power supply

56 communication interface

18 code processing subsystem

106 image capture device

92 image processing device

114 output device

6 containers (capsules / containers / small packages)

Capsule/container

58 main part

60 cover part

62 flange part

Small Package

64 piece material

66 internal volume

68 entrance

70 exit

74 code

104 flat shape

76 unit

78 Information section

90 coding area

82 data unit

118 discrete locations

80 benchmark section

84 reference position

86 reference unit

88 configuration

102 reference point

6‧‧‧ container; capsule; container; small package

74‧‧‧ Code

78‧‧‧Information section

80‧‧‧ benchmark part

82‧‧‧data unit

84 ₁ ‧‧‧First reference position

84 ₂ ‧‧‧second reference position

84 ₃ ‧‧‧ third reference position

86‧‧‧reference unit; reference position

88‧‧‧Configuration

90‧‧‧ coding area

102‧‧‧ benchmark

104‧‧‧ planar shape

R‧‧‧ baseline

d ₂ ‧‧‧distance

D ₂ ‧‧‧ code line

Claims (22)

A container for a beverage or food preparation machine for containing a beverage or food material and comprising a code for preparing preparation information, the code comprising a reference portion and a data portion: the reference portion comprising a reference unit, etc. Defining a linear reference line r ; the data portion includes a data unit, wherein the data unit is disposed on a code line D , the code line D intersects the reference line r , and the data unit is disposed along the code line D At a distance d from the intersection point as a variable to at least partially encode one of the parameters of the preparation information, whereby the code line D is circular and configured such that all lines are orthogonal to the intersection point at The baseline r , wherein the reference cells are configured to have a unique configuration that does not appear elsewhere in the code, the configuration defining a reference point from which the reference line r extends. The container of claim 1, wherein the reference units of the configuration all have the same individual configuration, the individual configuration preferably being the same individual configuration as the data unit. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the reference line r extends through or extends from at least one selected from the group consisting of: a symmetric center; a centroid; a line of symmetry; One or more reference cells; a line that extends parallel to one of the lines of one or more reference cells. A container as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the configuration can have a configuration by which one of the reference lines r can be uniquely identified by a single direction. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the configuration is selected from the group consisting of: a triangle, in particular an equilateral triangle or an isosceles triangle; a square; having other polygons comprising up to 8 vertices. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the configuration has a right-angled triangular configuration, whereby the vertices of the triangle are disposed on a circular line, the circular line being concentric with the coding line such that the reference point is Configured at the center of the circular line. Item 2 of the container 1 or the request, wherein the code comprises a plurality of D-coded line, such line encoding D: concentrically arranged; at r intersects the reference line at a different position; and one of a data unit comprising Corresponding configuration. A container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the configuration is fully positioned within a trajectory defined by the code line D or each code line D. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the code comprises a plurality of discrete locations, whereby the discrete locations include or do not include a unit, preferably as a variable to at least partially encode one of the parameters of the preparation information, thereby At least one of the locations includes a unit that is part of the reference portion. The container of claim 9, wherein the discrete locations or discrete locations are disposed outside of a track defined by the encoded line D or each of the encoded lines D. The container of claim 9, wherein the code line D is disposed in a rectangular planar shape, wherein the discrete positions are disposed within the planar shape and are adjacent to one or more vertices of the planar shape. A container of claim 1 or 2, comprising a plurality of such codes, wherein one of the reference lines r of one of the codes is determined by the configuration of the reference unit and a similar configuration of the reference unit of the other code, the other A code is preferably an adjacent code, preferably the reference line r is configured to extend through a reference point defined by the configuration of the two codes. A container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the code is formed on a surface of the container or on an attachment attached to the container. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the container comprises a material contained in one of: a capsule; a small package; and a container for the end user to eliminate Consumption of the beverage or food; a collapsible container. The container of claim 1 or 2, wherein the code is disposed on an attachment configured to attach to the container, the attachment comprising: a carrier carrying the Code; an attachment member for attachment to the container. A beverage or food preparation system comprising a container according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and a beverage or food preparation machine, the preparation machine comprising: a container processing subsystem for receiving the container and The container prepares a beverage or food; a code processing subsystem operable to: obtain a digital image of the code of the container; process the digital image to decode the encoded preparation information; a control subsystem Manipulating to control the container processing subsystem using the decoded preparation information, wherein the code processing subsystem is preferably configured to decode the encoded preparation information by: positioning the reference unit of the code with a data unit; identifying a unique configuration of one of the other reference units that does not appear in the code, and determining a reference line r therefrom ; determining, for a data unit, the reference line r along the code line D a distance d; V _p and the use of a parameter conversion and storage by a relationship between the distance d of a distance d to the actual value of a parameter. The beverage or food preparation system of claim 16, the attachment comprising: a carrier carrying the code; and an attachment member for attachment to the machine. A method of encoding preparation information, the method comprising forming a code for: a container for a beverage or food preparation machine for containing a beverage or food material; or an attachment for Attached to the container or a beverage or food preparation machine, the method further comprising: configuring a reference unit to define a unique configuration that does not appear elsewhere in the code, the configuration defining a reference point, a reference a portion of the reference line r extending from the reference point; and at least partially encoding the one of the preparation information by configuring a data unit on a code line D intersecting the reference line r with a data portion of the code The data unit is configured to perform the encoding as a variable at any continuous distance d extending from the intersection along the code line D , whereby the code line D is circular and configured to have its line It is orthogonal to the reference line r at the intersection. A method of preparing a beverage or food product using the system of claim 16, the method comprising: obtaining a digital image of the code of the container; processing the digital image to decode the encoded preparation information; using the preparation information to control a a preparation program, wherein decoding the encoded preparation information preferably comprises: locating the reference unit and the data unit of the code; and identifying, by the other, a unique configuration of the reference unit that does not appear in other parts of the code a reference line r; r is determined from the reference line along one of the lines d distance d for encoding a data unit; and the use of a parameter conversion parameters V _p and stored by a relationship between the distance d to a distance d An actual value. A use of a code as defined in any one of claims 1 to 14 for preferably encoding information for preparation of a container for a beverage or food preparation machine for use in a beverage or food preparation machine Containing a beverage or food material; or an attachment for attachment to the container or the beverage or food preparation machine. A computer program executable on one or more processors of a code processing subsystem of a beverage or food preparation machine, the computer program executable to process a container of any one of claims 1 to 14 a digital image of the code to decode the encoded preparation information, wherein the decoding preferably includes: locating the reference unit and the data unit of the code; identifying one of the reference units that is not present in the other of the code configuration, which is determined by a reference line r; r is determined from the reference line along one of the lines d distance d for encoding a data unit; upon storage and the use of a relationship between a parameter and a V _p the distance d This distance d is converted into an actual value of the parameter. A non-transitory computer readable medium containing a computer program such as claim 21.