Beverage preparation machines

Abstract

The present invention relates to improvements in beverage preparation machines and in particular to a beverage preparation machine of the type which uses pre-packed cartridges of beverage ingredients. The cartridges may be designed so that air becomes entrained so as to produce a desired foam or crema. Air inlets are provided in an outlet nozzle to allow air to enter the beverage preparation machine and so be available for entrainment. Advantageously, the air inlets extend through the sides of the nozzle in an elevated position at a widened portion of the nozzle. This reduces the flow of beverage into and through the air inlets, aiding cleanliness.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates to improvements in beverage preparation machines and in particular to a beverage preparation machine of the type which uses prepackaged containers of beverage ingredients. Background technique [0002] Cafes have been part of "coffee culture" since the 17th century. During these years, the methods of making coffee have improved and technicians have been trained to make the best coffee beverages. The first coffee machine was developed as early as the 19th century, and the automatic espresso machine was invented in the 1930s. Furthermore, automation of the coffee making process, especially in the last decade, has led to a rapid increase in the number of cafes / coffee shops, where more specialized beverages such as espresso and cappuccino are in high demand. These types of beverages were historically considered a luxury item due to the need for expensive and complex machinery capable of generating the high pressures necessar...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

These types of beverages have historically been viewed as a luxury item due to the need for expensive and complex machinery capable of generating the high pressures necessary to make the beverage and which must be properly operated by a trained barista and maintenance to produce high-quality beverages

Coffee aficionados agree that even with high-quality machines and high-quality coffee, poorly trained operators can degrade the quality of espresso

However, this trend has not only led to an increase in consumer demand for luxury, top-quality beverages, but has also led to a desire for a wider variety of specialty beverages and the ability to create them in the comfort of their own homes.

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