Systems, machines and containers for preparing fluid food products

Abstract

A system for preparing food products comprises a sealed disposable container (11) and a preparation machine (1) having a hydraulic circuit comprising at least one water supply source, means for heating water and pumping means, and a first dispensing element (51) capable of being supplied with pressurized hot water and / or steam. An inlet wall (13) of the disposable container (11) has at least one axially hollow coupling element (18, 26) defining at least a portion of an inlet of the disposable container (11). The disposable container (11) comprises an axially extending injector element (20) which can be coupled to the at least one coupling element (18, 26) or formed integrally therewith, such that at least a first distal end portion of the injector element (20) extends within an inner volume (16). The at least one coupling element (18, 26) of the disposable container (11) and the first distribution element (51) are configured for coupling to each other, and the hydraulic circuit (40) can be controlled to deliver pressurized hot water and / or steam to the first distribution element (51) for respective injection into the inner volume (16) of the disposable container (11) via the injector element (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the subject of the preparation of fluid food products, i.e. liquid or semi-liquid products, in particular via automatic and semi-automatic preparation machines. The described technology is developed in particular with reference to systems, machines and kits for preparing liquid food products which may also comprise a number of ingredients which may be processed individually, or with reference to the preparation of food products envisaging the use of at least one perishable ingredient or the preparation of food products envisaging the use of steam. Background Art

[0002] The preparation of liquid products by means of automatic preparation machines, such as those used for domestic or community use, is common, in particular for the preparation of hot beverages which may also comprise a number of ingredients.

[0003] In some known solutions, the various ingredients of a given hot beverage are prepackaged in capsules (either sealed or not), and the preparation machine is prearranged for processing the capsules in order to dispense the beverage. Typically, the machine is designed to load the capsules into a preparation or brewing chamber which, in the case of sealed capsules, is provided with means for piercing the capsule itself.

[0004] The preparation fluid supplied to the inlet of the brewing chamber is at high temperature, generally represented by heated water and / or steam, so that the aforementioned fluid dissolves the ingredients contained in the capsule (in the case of soluble ingredients) or extracts therefrom substances and flavoring agents useful for preparing the beverage (in the case of infused ingredients). The beverage thus obtained leaves the brewing chamber through a corresponding outlet and is dispensed via a nozzle into a collection container, typically represented by a tea or coffee cup or a glass.

[0005] Although very practical and hygienic, this type of preparation does not generally allow obtaining a beverage of comparable quality to that obtained via manual preparation of the various ingredients, in particular their separate preparation, and subsequent combination or mixing. Consider, for example, the case of the beverage cappuccino: in the case of preparation via a capsule, this must contain both a precursor of espresso (generally represented by ground coffee or soluble coffee for brewing) and a precursor of liquid milk (generally represented by milk powder), which are extracted and / or dissolved and mixed directly in the capsule, with the mixture then being dispensed into a collection container, such as a cup.

[0006] Even when the capsule and / or the corresponding preparation machine are designed to be able to produce a rich foam in the dispensed beverage, the result obtained does not generally have a quality level comparable to that obtainable via the separate preparation of espresso and a dose of liquid milk heated and frothed using steam and their subsequent combination in a collecting container for final consumption. A similar problem also exists in the case of machines designed to prepare cappuccino (or other liquid products with multiple ingredients) by processing two different capsules in rapid succession (for example one containing a precursor for espresso and the other containing a precursor for liquid milk), wherein the two beverages are dispensed successively into the same collecting container.

[0007] Therefore, many preparation machines are pre-arranged to be able to dispense hot water or steam also outside the brewing chamber via a specific nozzle or wand, which can be manually directed by the user in the scenario where this is desired. In this way, again referring to the preparation of cappuccino, the user is in a state of dispensing, with the wand, the steam required for heating and frothing the milk contained in a container (for example a cup), and then adding to the same container a dose of espresso, which can be obtained with the help of a corresponding single-ingredient capsule, processed in the brewing chamber of the machine itself, and thus dispensed in the above-mentioned manner. Other machines are still pre-arranged for connection to a specially provided auxiliary container, called a milk frother, which is specifically designed to heat and froth the milk with the help of steam generated in the machine, and then enables the heated and frothed milk to be poured into another container, to which a dose of espresso produced via the same machine can then be added, for example using a single-ingredient capsule as explained above. Other known milk frothers are instead constructed as functionally independent devices of the preparation machines of the mentioned type.

[0008] Although the cappuccino obtainable is generally better than that which can be produced via capsules comprising coffee and milk precursors, this second preparation method also involves some disadvantages.

[0009] The first problem is related to the quality of the prepared cappuccino, which in fact depends not only on the quality of the espresso and the starting liquid milk, but also on the skill level of the person preparing the hot beverage. For example, incorrect heating or frothing of the milk can have an impact on the quality of the final beverage. This also applies in the case of an excessive or reduced amount of frothed milk mixed with the espresso, or furthermore in the case of an incorrect amount of espresso.

[0010] Another problem is related to the hygienic requirements regarding the use of biological liquids such as milk. Due to its composition, liquid milk is in fact an ideal substrate for the growth of microorganisms that can be harmful to human health: therefore, the tools for preparing food that come into contact with such biological liquids should be thoroughly cleaned within a relatively short time after use. For this reason, the wand of the preparation machine for frothing liquid milk necessary for the preparation of cappuccino should be washed or in any case cleaned within a short time and carefully in order to prevent the proliferation of microorganisms. The same applies to the case of preparations obtained using milk frothers, which also require thorough cleaning after use.

[0011] Problems similar to those exemplified with regard to cappuccino may also exist in the preparation of other fluid food products having a base of multiple ingredients such as broth or soup, which ingredients may be processed via hot water or steam generated by a preparation machine of the type mentioned. Summary of the invention

[0012] In general, the present invention has the object of resolving one or more of the mentioned disadvantages.

[0013] According to a first aspect, the present invention aims to provide a system which is particularly advantageous both from a hygiene point of view and from a point of view of simplicity of use for the on-site preparation of food products using a preparation fluid dispensed by a dispensing element of a preparation machine.

[0014] According to a second aspect, the invention aims at providing a preparation machine which is particularly advantageous with regard to its use in a system of the mentioned type.

[0015] According to a third aspect, the invention aims to provide a pre-packaging container, preferably of the disposable type, which enables the preparation and preservation of a fluid high-quality food product in a simple and intuitive way, also based on the use of at least one fresh ingredient such as milk, and without implying any contamination of the preparation machine on which the preparation container is used.

[0016] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention aims to provide such a system and / or such a machine and / or such a container which are designed such that the quality of the final food product is substantially independent of the skills of the person carrying out its on-site preparation.

[0017] According to a fifth aspect, the present invention aims to indicate new ways for preparing on-site, on a preparation machine, food products also comprising a plurality of ingredients, which ways are simple, effective and hygienic.

[0018] According to a sixth aspect, the present invention aims to provide a kit or container that can be used both for the preparation and preservation of a fluid food product and for the subsequent consumption of the product.

[0019] One or more of the above objects are achieved by a system and / or machine and / or container and / or method for preparing a food product having the features specified in the appended claims. The claims form an integral part of the technical teaching provided herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will appear from the ensuing description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided by way of non-limiting examples only, and in which:

[0021] - Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of a preparation system according to a possible embodiment of the present invention, the preparation system comprising a preparation machine and a disposable container;

[0022] - Figure 2 and Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a sealed container according to a possible embodiment of the present invention, in perspective and cross-sectional views respectively;

[0023] - Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a tubular syringe element of a disposable container according to a possible embodiment of the present invention, in perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively;

[0024] - Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a disposable container according to a possible embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] - Figure 7 It is enlarged in proportion Figure 6 Detailed drawing of

[0026] - Figure 8 is a partial schematic cross-sectional view of a preparation machine according to a possible embodiment of the invention in a first state;

[0027] - Fig. 9 It is enlarged in proportion Figure 8 Detailed drawing of

[0028] - Fig.10 and Fig.11 is a schematic diagram, respectively a perspective view and a cross-sectional view, of a capsule for preparing a liquid food product, which capsule can be used in a system or machine according to a possible embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] - Fig.12 and Fig.13 is similar to Figure 8 and Fig. 9 but wherein the machine is in a second state;

[0030] - Fig.14is a diagram intended to illustrate a possible simplified example of a hydraulic circuit of a preparation machine according to a possible embodiment of the invention;

[0031] - Fig.15 and Fig.16 is a partial and schematic mutually orthogonal cross-sectional view of a dispensing head of a preparation machine according to a possible embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] - Fig.17 and Fig.18 is a partial and schematic perspective view of a preparation machine and a disposable container according to a possible embodiment, while they are functionally coupled together;

[0033] - Fig.19 and Fig. 20 is similar to Fig.15 and Fig.16 A view of a view of a view in which the disposable container is in a state of mechanical coupling with the dispensing head;

[0034] - Fig.21 and Fig. 22 is similar to Fig.17 and Fig.18 A view of a view of a view of a dispensing head in a state of hydraulic coupling with a disposable container;

[0035] - Fig.23 is a schematic perspective view of a disposable container according to a possible embodiment of the invention after preparation of a corresponding food product;

[0036] - Fig.24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a disposable container according to a possible embodiment of the invention, with some of its elements removed in view of the consumption of the corresponding food product;

[0037] - Fig.25 is a schematic perspective view of a disposable container according to a possible embodiment of the invention, provided with a corresponding lid; and

[0038] - Fig.26 is similar to Fig.25 A perspective view of a perspective view of a disposable container, but with the lid of the disposable container removed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Reference to an embodiment within the framework of this specification is intended to indicate that a particular configuration, structure or feature described relative to that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, phrases such as "in an embodiment", "in one embodiment", "in various embodiments", etc., which may exist in various points of this specification, do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, the specific configurations, structures or features defined in this specification may be combined in any appropriate manner in one or more embodiments (including embodiments different from those shown). The reference numerals and spatial references used herein (such as "upper", "lower", "top", "bottom", etc.) are provided only for convenience and therefore do not limit the scope of protection or the scope of the embodiments. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to represent elements that are similar or technically equivalent to each other. In the subsequent description and in the appended claims, in the absence of other indications, terms such as "ingredients" or "food substances" should be understood to refer to a single substance (e.g., ground coffee) or a mixture of multiple substances (e.g., ground coffee with sweetener added) without distinction.

[0040] Figure 1 Schematically shown in the figure is a system for preparing a fluid (i.e., liquid or semi-liquid) food product according to a possible embodiment of the invention, the system comprising a preparation machine and a container that can be processed by the machine, the container possibly being constructed as a kit. In various preferred embodiments, the aforementioned container or kit is of disposable type. The container is configured to be used in conjunction with the machine for preparing the food product and preserving it both during preparation and subsequently (e.g. in view of its consumption). As will be seen, in particularly advantageous embodiments, the same container can be used directly by the user to consume the food product.

[0041] The preparation machine, indicated as a whole by 1, has a housing or fixed structure 2 to which is associated a tank 3 for containing water that can be used for the purpose of preparing food products, such as, but not exclusively, hot beverages. In addition to or as an alternative to the tank 3, the machine 1 can be provided with a suitable system for connection to an external water system, such as a household system, for supplying clean and safe potable water necessary for operation.

[0042] In various preferred embodiments, the machine 1 has a brewing chamber configured to receive at least one dose of a precursor of a liquid food product and to dispense the liquid food product after water and / or steam has passed through the brewing chamber. For this purpose, the machine 1 may comprise a suitable hydraulic circuit configured to supply pressurized hot water and / or steam to the brewing chamber. In various embodiments, the brewing chamber of the machine 1 is prearranged to receive a capsule, or a pod or a tablet containing the aforementioned dose of the precursor, but this does not constitute an essential feature.

[0043] In various embodiments, associated with the structure 2 of the machine 1, preferably in a front position, is a user interface 4, which comprises means for selecting programs and / or functions of the machine, such as keys and / or buttons and / or selectors, and alarm means, such as alarm lights and / or light indicators, and / or an electronic display. Possibly, the user interface 4 may comprise a display of the touch screen type, which performs both the functions of means for selection and setting and the functions of display and alarm. Within the structure 2, for example in a position corresponding to the user interface 4, an electronic card may be installed, in which at least part of the control system of the machine 1 is implemented. In addition to the user interface 4 or as an alternative thereto, the machine 1 may be equipped with a remote control and / or be prearranged for control at least partially via a smart device, such as a mobile phone or tablet provided with corresponding application software. The control system of the machine 1 may also be prearranged for connection in wired or wireless mode to a communication network, such as a home network or a home automation system.

[0044] In various embodiments, according to the invention, the structure 2 preferably defines a space or area 5 for positioning a container, which can be used to collect hot beverages or for preparing and preserving them, in a forward position and / or below the user interface 4. Preferably, the positioning space 5 is provided with a tray or lower support 5a for placing the aforementioned container thereon. The tray 5a may be of a height-adjustable type to facilitate the use of common containers of different heights, such as glasses, tea cups, coffee cups and disposable containers according to a possible embodiment of the invention. The space 5 is preferably defined outside the structure 2 or housing of the machine 1; i.e. it can be directly accessible by the user. However, the machine 1 may also include an opening for accessing the protected space 5.

[0045] Designated as a whole by 10 is an example of a disposable container in the form of a kit that can be used in conjunction with the machine 1 for the preparation and preservation of food products. As will become clear hereinafter, in various embodiments, such food products can be prepared using the container kit 10 and at least one preparation fluid that can be supplied directly by the preparation machine 1 outside the corresponding brewing chamber.

[0046] In various embodiments, the kit 10 comprises at least one prepackaged sealed container 11, in particular of the disposable type. In a preferred embodiment, the container kit 10 comprises a disposable tubular syringe element 20; in the illustrated example, the prepackaged container 11 and the syringe element 20 are constructed as different components that can be coupled together. In a possible variant embodiment (not shown), the container 11 may already be provided with a corresponding syringe element, for example pre-installed. In the following, for simplicity, the element 20 will be identified as a "nozzle".

[0047] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As can be seen in the figure, in various embodiments, the sealed container 11 has a container body 12, which is closed at the top by a top wall or access wall 13, and has a bottom wall 14 and a side wall 15. The walls 13, 14 and 15 define a chamber or a sealed internal volume 16, which contains a predetermined amount of at least one food substance 17, in particular a first component of the food product to be prepared, possibly a component of a perishable type and / or a type that can be stored in a refrigerated environment. In the following, for the sake of simplicity, it can be assumed that the above-mentioned food product to be prepared is a hot cappuccino, the substance or component 17 contained in the chamber 16 is fresh milk, and the preparation fluid that can be supplied to the container 11 by the machine 1 is steam. It should be noted that, as an alternative, the pre-packaged sealed container according to the present invention may include some milk of other nature, for example, selected from the following milk: UHT milk, lactose-free milk, goat milk, soy milk, hazelnut milk, milk-based preparations (fruit and / or chocolate).

[0048] The bottom wall 14 and the side wall 15 of the container body 12 are preferably made of a single piece, preferably made of a plastic material suitable for food purposes, such as a molded or thermoformed body made of polypropylene or polystyrene, or made of a bioplastic or compostable material. On the other hand, the scope of the present invention does not exclude the situation that the container body 12 is made of a metal material or a material with a metal base (such as aluminum). The side wall 15 is preferably substantially frustoconical and the bottom wall 14 is substantially planar, but these shapes are not required.

[0049] The top wall 13 of the container body 12 preferably comprises a sealing foil, preferably of the pierceable type, for example made of a plastic material (for example a polypropylene-based material, or a bioplastic, or a compostable material) or a metal material (for example an aluminum-based material), or possibly comprises a plurality of layers, which may even be made of different materials (for example a plurality of films of a plastic material, or a plurality of films of a metal material, or a combination of at least one film of a plastic material and at least one film of a metal material).

[0050] The foil 13 forming the top wall of the container body 12 has a peripheral area 13 1 ( Figure 3 ), which is fixed in a gas-tight manner at the upper edge of the side wall 15. For this purpose, preferably, the upper edge is shaped so as to define an annular flange 15a, which extends radially outwards from the side wall 15. The peripheral area 13 of the foil 13 1 It may be fixed to the upper surface of the flange 15a in a sealing manner via heat sealing.

[0051] Regardless of the specific materials used to produce the body 12 and the walls 13, they are preferably materials having barrier properties to oxygen and light sufficient to be able to substantially prolong the storage time of the corresponding contents (here represented by liquid milk 17) also in a refrigerated environment.

[0052] Preferably, the foil 13 is configured for removal from the container body 12, in particular in order to be able to consume the cappuccino directly from the container body 12 itself in the form of a cup. For this purpose, in various embodiments, the foil 13 defines a gripping tab or appendage indicated by 13a, which is intended to facilitate manual peeling of the foil itself from the flange 15a. In various preferred embodiments, in order to be able to drink the food product directly from the container body 12, i.e. in the case where the consumer brings the flange 15a to his or her lips, the contour or outer edge of the flange 15a is preferably substantially rounded or in any case shaped to prevent sharp edges. In the illustrated case, the flange 15a is intentionally provided with a rounded edge, only in the case of Fig.24 As already said, the container 11 is preferably pre-arranged to enable the preparation of a food product via the machine 1 and to preserve the product therein, in particular with a view to its subsequent consumption.

[0053] In various embodiments, in a position corresponding to the top or inlet wall, the container 11 has at least one coupling or positioning element, which is preferably axially hollow and defines at least a portion of the inlet of the container itself.

[0054] In the example of the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned at least one coupling or positioning element is associated with the foil 13 and is indicated as a whole by 18. The element 18 is preferably located at the outer edge of the foil 13 relative to the peripheral area 13. 1 Radially more internal area. Preferentially, the coupling or positioning element 18 protrudes to the outside of the sealing chamber 16 and defines an axial cavity 19. The element 18, which is referred to as "matching component" for simplicity hereinafter, can be made of a plastic material (e.g. polypropylene, or bioplastic or compostable material) and can be fixed to the foil 13, preferably but not necessarily on the outer surface of the foil 13, for example via gluing or heat sealing. The matching component 18 is preferably associated with the foil 13 in a substantially central position of the foil 13, although this does not constitute an essential feature.

[0055] In various preferred embodiments, the mating component 18 is identified by 13 at the corresponding axial cavity 19. 21 , and / or a channel for introducing the first distal portion of the nozzle 20 under guidance into the inner chamber 16 of the container 11. As will be clearly shown below, in various embodiments, this introduction is intended to enable the supply of a preparation fluid generated in the machine 1, in particular pressurized steam, in the chamber 16 of the container 11. For this purpose, the machine 1 is provided with an external element for distributing the steam, which in some preferred embodiments comprises a specially arranged external distributing head. In other embodiments, the element for distributing the steam into the nozzle 20 may be an external rod of the machine 1. The distributing element and the distributing head are defined here as "external" because at least one of them at least partially faces the outside of the structure or housing 2 of the machine 1; that is, it can be entered from the outside so that it can be connected to the container 1.

[0056] In other embodiments (not shown), the nozzle 20 may be formed integrally with or fixed to the matching part 18 so as to protrude towards the inner chamber 16 of the container 11 right from the start of production of the container 11, in particular at the moment of fixing the foil 13 to the container body 12 after a certain amount of milk 17 has been dosed into the body 12.

[0057] Additionally or alternatively, in various embodiments, the matching component 18 is configured for identifying a predetermined position for a coupling arrangement of the container 11 within the positioning space 5 relative to the preparation machine 1 , as exemplified below.

[0058] In various preferred embodiments, the mating part 18 is substantially shaped like a cylindrical bushing, wherein the corresponding axial cavity 19 has a circular cross section. More generally, the contour of the cavity 19 is substantially identical to or at least approximately complementary to the outer contour of the tubular element 21 .

[0059] In various embodiments, at least one of the matching part 18 and the nozzle 20 is shaped for mechanical coupling with the aforementioned steam distribution element of the machine 1 , in particular the aforementioned distribution head.

[0060] For this purpose, in the non-limiting case illustrated in the drawings, the matching part 18 is shaped so as to present a groove or recess 18a in an intermediate position between its two axial ends. Again preferably, the two axial ends are shaped so as to define an upper flange 18b and a lower flange 18c, respectively, between which the groove 18a extends, here with a circular profile. In various embodiments (such as the one illustrated in the figures), the upper end of the matching part 18 (i.e. its flange 18b) defines an abutment surface for a corresponding surface of the nozzle 20, while the lower end (i.e. the flange 18c) defines a surface for fixing the matching part 18 (e.g. via gluing or heat sealing) to the foil 13, as already said.

[0061] It should be noted that in a possible embodiment as an alternative to the one illustrated in the figures, at least part of the functionality indicated for the matching component 18 may be integrated in a purposely shaped nozzle 20 .

[0062] As in Figure 4 and Figure 5 As can be seen in the drawing, in various embodiments, the nozzle 20 has an axially extending tubular body 21, which preferably has a circular cross-section, or, as in the illustrated case, a cross-section at least slightly frustoconical, defining a cavity or internal duct 22. In various preferred embodiments, the nozzle 20 or the lower part of its body 21 is closed and is shaped so as to facilitate the area 13 2 The foil 13 is pierced or torn ( Figure 3 ). To facilitate piercing, the foil 13 may be 2 The outer edges of the outer edges of the container body 12 may be pre-cut or weakened without compromising its airtight sealing properties relative to the container body 12.

[0063] In the illustrated case, the aforementioned lower end of the tubular body 21, indicated by 23, is shaped so as to define a tip, preferably but not necessarily with a substantially conical shape. The body 21 defines, at its own upper end, an inlet 24 of an internal duct 22, which has at least one outlet, preferably situated in a position of the body 21 centered between its two axial ends, in particular at the peripheral wall of the aforementioned tip. Figure 7 In the case of the main body 21 comprises a single outlet indicated by 25, but in other embodiments two or more outlets 25 may be provided, for example two outlets 25 in opposing positions, or more than two outlets 25 distributed along the circumference of the main body 21, for example three outlets 25 at a distance of 120° from each other. Providing a plurality of outlets 25 may be useful for reasons of balance.

[0064] In various preferred embodiments, the matching part 18 and the nozzle 20 are pre-arranged in such a way as to define the position of maximum insertion of the aforementioned first distal portion of the nozzle in the chamber 16 of the container 11. For this purpose, preferably, the nozzle 20 has a stop or end-of-travel device that can cooperate with the matching part 18 to define the position of maximum insertion. In various embodiments, the aforementioned stop or end-of-travel device comprises at least one lateral protrusion 26 of the body 21 of the nozzle 20, which is preferably a flange substantially defined at the proximal end of the body 21 or the proximal end of the inlet 24 of its internal conduit 22.

[0065] In other embodiments, different stop means may be provided, for example depending on the shape and size in cross-sectional view of the nozzle 20 and the axial cavity 19 of the mating component 18. In this type of embodiment, it is possible to utilize, for example, a generally frustoconical outer shape of the nozzle 20, which at a certain point in its insertion will mechanically interfere with the diameter profile of the cavity 19, thereby stopping the insertion. It will therefore be appreciated that in this type of embodiment, the flange 26 of the nozzle 20 may be omitted, or does not necessarily have to start pressing against the mating component 18.

[0066] Referring to the illustrated case, as can be appreciated, the nozzle 20 can be manually inserted through the cavity 19 of the mating component 18 so that the tip end 23 will be located in the region 13. 2 The insertion of the nozzle 20 continues until its flange 26 begins to press on the upper end of the mating part 18, namely on its flange 18b, thus marking the position of maximum insertion mentioned above. Figure 6 As just mentioned, this position can also be determined by the interference between the outer contour of the nozzle 20 and the inner contour of the cavity 19.

[0067] The axial cavity 19 of the matching part 18 enables the insertion movement of the nozzle 20 to be guided. The preferably frustoconical section of the body 21 of the nozzle 20 advantageously enables a kind of self-centering of the body itself within the cylindrical cavity 19 of the matching part 18.

[0068] The aforementioned first distal portion of the nozzle 20 (i.e., the portion thereof that will protrude into the chamber 16 of the container 11) is located at Figure 5 In the same figure, DP is indicated; in the same figure, PP is indicated instead a second proximal portion of the nozzle 20 which, in the aforementioned maximum inserted position, will remain outside the chamber 16, and which portion essentially comprises a section of the body 21 which crosses the cavity 19 of the matching part 18 and a corresponding upper flange 26 which, in this case, presses on the upper flange 18b of the matching part 18, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 As will be seen, in various embodiments, in the aforementioned condition of maximum insertion, the flange 26 of the nozzle 20 and the matching part 18 substantially form an inlet of the container 11 which can be mechanically coupled in a sealed manner to the aforementioned dispensing head of the preparation machine 1 .

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 6 , in various embodiments, in the maximum inserted position of the nozzle 20 (thus meaning its operating position, even in the case where the nozzle is pre-installed or made in one piece with the matching component 18), its lower or distal end is elevated relative to the bottom wall 14 of the container body 12, at a substantially predetermined distance from the bottom wall 14. In various preferred embodiments, at the first distal portion DP ( Figure 5) into the chamber 16 of the container 11, the outlet opening 25 of the nozzle 20 itself is located at a substantially predetermined distance above the level (under static conditions) of the first component 17 (here represented by liquid fresh milk). Figure 6 and from Figure 7 This feature can also be appreciated in the corresponding details of , in which the level of milk 17 is indicated by L. In general, the distance between the at least one outlet 25 of the nozzle 20 and the level of the food substance 17 may depend on the type of substance itself and / or the type of food product to be prepared and / or the volume of the chamber 16 and / or the amount of food product desired and / or the type of preparation. In other embodiments, on the other hand, the functionally correct position for the at least one outlet 25 of the nozzle may also be at a height below the level of the food substance 17; i.e. the outlet 25 is at least partially immersed.

[0070] In the illustrated case, the outlet 25 is defined at the terminal tip portion 23 of the injector element 20, in particular in the conical wall thereof: more generally, it is preferred that the at least one outlet 25 will be shaped and / or positioned so that the pressurized fluid supplied in the duct 22 (steam in the example considered here) flows out of the outlet 25, wherein the flow has a direction that is generally inclined relative to the axis of the nozzle 20 and / or relative to the surface of the whole of the milk 17, as indicated by Figure 7 This inclined flow arrangement may be advantageous in order to create a swirling motion in the bulk of the milk 17, which may be used to promote the formation of a rich surface foam.

[0071] It will also be appreciated that, given the presence of the nozzle 20 and its outlet 25, the preparation fluid may be introduced into the chamber 16 in a region at a distance from the entry wall (here illustrated by the foil 13).

[0072] exist Figure 8 Neutralization Fig. 9 In the corresponding details of the machine 1 according to a possible embodiment of the invention, only by way of non-limiting example, in partial and schematic form is shown. The machine 1 is here limited to the parts directly relevant for understanding the invention, wherein the preparation or brewing unit is indicated as a whole by 30.

[0073] From a mechanical point of view, the brewing unit 30 may be of any known type available in the field, for example but not exclusively as described in one or more of documents WO 2014 / 016741 A2, WO 2013 / 182923 A1, WO 2013 / 150480 A1, WO 2013 / 140282 A1, WO 2013 / 111088 A1, WO 2013 / 038318 A1, WO 2012 / 168917 A1, WO2012168918 A1, all filed in the name of Luigi Lavazza SpA, to which the reader is also referred for a description of the possible types of capsules (sealed or unsealed) that can be used in the machine according to the invention. On the other hand, it should be noted that the invention is also applicable to machines using pods made of paper material, or to machines whose brewing chamber is designed to directly receive a precursor of a liquid product, such as a preparation in granular or powder form (for example ground coffee), or compressed in the form of tablets, without the intervention of capsules or pods. Likewise, the invention is applicable to dispensing units having a brewing chamber defined by one or more fixed bodies, into which a precursor of a liquid product can be supplied through a suitable channel and which can then be reclosed in a sealed manner. The ground coffee supplied to the brewing chamber can also be generated in the machine 1 itself, if the machine 1 is provided with a bean-to-cup system, i.e. a system known per se, which is at least pre-arranged for:

[0074] i) directly grinding the coffee beans contained in a hopper container provided by the machine;

[0075] ii) dosing the amount of ground coffee necessary for the preparation being made; and

[0076] iii) A dose of ground coffee is delivered to the brew chamber.

[0077] As already mentioned, in various preferred embodiments, the unit 30 comprises a brewing chamber configured to receive at least one dose of at least one precursor of a liquid food product and to dispense the product after water and / or steam has passed through the brewing chamber and the precursor. For this purpose, the machine 1 is also provided with a hydraulic circuit configured to supply pressurized hot water and / or steam to the brewing chamber.

[0078] In various embodiments, the brewing chamber comprises a first part and a second part, at least one of which is displaceable relative to the other between a spaced apart or open position (enabling the loading of the aforementioned dose of precursor into the brewing chamber) and a closed or closed position (enabling the introduction of water and / or steam into the brewing chamber), and subsequently dispensing the liquid food product. As mentioned, on the other hand, the invention is also applicable to the case of a unit having a brewing chamber defined by one or more fixed bodies.

[0079] In various embodiments, the first component of the chamber, indicated by 31, comprises an injector device (hereinafter referred to as "injector" for simplicity) designed to introduce pressurized hot water and / or steam into the brewing chamber. The injector 31 is fed by a corresponding conduit (not shown) via a water source (here indicated by tank 3), a pumping device and a boiler ( Figures 8 to 9 The second part of the brewing chamber, indicated by 32, comprises a body defining a hollow volume suitable for receiving the aforementioned dose of precursor and designed to dispense the liquid product obtained starting from the precursor; for this purpose, a dispensing duct is operatively associated with part 32, the initial part of which is located at Fig. 9 In the figure, it is indicated by 32a for releasing the liquid product from the brewing chamber.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment such as the one shown, the unit 30 is of the type prearranged to receive a capsule containing the aforementioned dose of precursor: in such an embodiment, the component 32 of the chamber is therefore a capsule holder designed to at least partially house the capsule.

[0081] Fig.10 and Fig.11 Illustrated purely by way of example is a capsule 6 (or cartridge or pod according to other terminology currently in use) which can be used in the machine 1 in order to supply the receptacle 11 with a second liquid component of a food product: with reference to the example mentioned previously, in which the product is a cappuccino, it is assumed that the precursor contained in the capsule 6 is ground coffee suitable for preparing espresso.

[0082] The capsule 6 may be of any type known per se and is described here only for the purpose of more easily understanding a possible embodiment of the invention. On the other hand, as mentioned, in possible variant embodiments, the brewing unit 30 of the machine according to the invention may be of a type that does not involve the use of the capsule for the purpose of preparing a liquid food product.

[0083] The capsule 6 contains a dose 7 of at least one precursor capable of producing a liquid food product or substance using water and / or steam. In general, the dose 7 may consist of ground coffee, as in the example, or of another precursor of a liquid product, such as tea, chocolate, some other beverage or a freeze-dried preparation for preparing broths, soups and infusions of various natures. This list should be understood as provided as an example and not as having a mandatory nature, and the precursor may also be of liquid type. In the following, as already said, reference will be made to the preparation of espresso, with the dose 7 thus understood to consist of ground coffee for brewing.

[0084] In the structure of the capsule 6 which is shaped as a whole substantially like a tray or a small cup in which the dose 7 is present, it is possible to distinguish:

[0085] - a body 8 comprising a side or peripheral wall 8a and a bottom wall 8b closing the body 8 at one end of the side wall 8a; and

[0086] - A closing wall 9 which closes the capsule 6 at the end opposite to the bottom wall 8b.

[0087] In the illustrated example, the capsule 6 is an airtight capsule having a wall 9 consisting of a sealing foil. The body of the capsule 6 is substantially semi-rigid, for example having at least one plastic-based material (e.g. having a polypropylene-based material or a bioplastic or a compostable material) and / or at least one metal material (e.g. an aluminum-based material). The wall 9 is made of a flexible foil material, which consists of a plastic material or a metal material, possibly also of a multilayer type comprising different materials (e.g. a plastic material or a metal material). However, the present invention can also be used in combination with capsules made of other materials and / or capsules having a bottom wall and / or a closed wall provided with holes.

[0088] In this example, the wall or sheet 9 is connected in a sealed manner (for example by heat sealing) to the side wall 8a of the body 8 of the capsule, in particular at its outer annular flange 8c around the mouth of the body 8: in this example, the capsule 6 therefore has an asymmetrical shape relative to a plane passing through the flange 8c.

[0089] In the illustrated case, the body 8 is shaped like a cup or a tray diverging from a bottom wall 8b towards the end closed by the sealing sheet 9. Preferably, this diverging configuration is a truncated conical configuration, which is not essential, however, as long as the capsule 6 can have a different overall shape, such as cylindrical, prismatic, truncated pyramidal, cubic or parallelepipedal, etc. In the non-limiting example shown, the bottom wall 8b is shaped like a concave dome, wherein the concavity of the dome of the capsule 6 is directed to the outside: also in this case, the choice of this configuration is not mandatory, as long as the capsule 6 can, for example, have a bottom wall 8b shaped like a dome (with its concavity facing the inside of the capsule 10), or have a flat or substantially flat bottom wall 8b.

[0090] return Figure 8 and Fig. 9 By way of non-limiting example, the capsule holder 32 is substantially coaxial with the injector 31 and is mounted in a fixed position relative to the structure, whereas the injector 31 is mounted in a movable manner. According to an embodiment (not shown), the injector 31 may instead be fixed and the movable capsule holder or both the injector and the capsule holder may be movable so as to obtain a passage between a spaced apart position and a closed position. In a possible variant embodiment (not shown), the function of injecting water and / or steam into the chamber formed by the union between the two parts 31 and 32 may be performed in the second part 32 and the function of dispensing espresso may be performed in the first part 31, or likewise, the same part of the brewing chamber may be pre-arranged for the purposes of injection of water and / or steam and dispensing of espresso.

[0091] In various embodiments, the unit 30 comprises an arrangement for loading and unloading capsules 6, comprising an inlet channel and an outlet channel, indicated by 33 and 34, for example defined in the upper and lower walls, respectively, of the housing of the unit 30. In this example, the inlet channel 33 is defined in the wall of the unit 30, the unit 30 being movable with the injector 31 and being aligned at the bottom with a similar inlet channel 2a defined in the structure 2 of the machine 1 when the injector 31 is in a position in which it is set at a distance from the capsule holder 32. Below the outlet channel 34 of the unit 30, a container 35 for collecting used capsules is preferably provided. It should be noted that in the Figures 8 to 9 and similar Figures 12 to 23 In the figure, for the sake of clarity, the capsule 6 is not shown.

[0092] The loading and unloading arrangement of the machine 1 preferably comprises a retaining device which can temporarily retain the capsule 6 in an intermediate position between the injector 31 and the capsule holder 32 when the injector 31 and the capsule holder 32 are in their spaced-apart position, and then release the capsule itself to be inserted into the capsule holder 32 when the injector and the capsule holder are placed in the closed position. The passage between the retained state and the released state can be obtained, for example, by means of a relative movement between the capsule holder 32 and the injector 31, or by means of an ejector member associated with the capsule holder, all according to a technique known per se (see, for example, the aforementioned document filed in the name of Luigi Lavazza SpA). Preferably, the retaining device 36 is arranged in the housing of the unit 30 in an intermediate position between the inlet channel 33 and the outlet channel 34, so as to operate between the injector 31 and the capsule holder 32 when the injector 31 and the capsule holder 32 are in the respective spaced-apart position, as Figure 8 and Fig. 9 as shown in .

[0093] In various embodiments, the aforementioned holding device includes at least two opposing holding elements 36. Figures 8 to 9 Only one of the at least two opposing retaining elements 36 can be seen in FIG. 1 , which two elements are preferably mounted substantially symmetrically and in the same plane transversely to the operating axis of the unit 30 or the displacement axis of the syringe 31 .

[0094] The element 36 may be constituted, for example, by two movable jaws or shoulders, possibly provided with elastic means, arranged to push the jaws or shoulders towards a position of equilibrium, or to retain the capsule 6. The elements 36 may be shaped to define at least one seat between them, so that during the step of loading from above, a portion of the capsule 6 penetrates between the elements 36 themselves, causing it to bifurcate, opposing the action of the respective elastic means, until reaching the aforementioned seat. In this state, the capsule 6 is retained by the element 36 in an intermediate position substantially coaxial with the syringe 31 and the capsule holder 32.

[0095] In other embodiments, the element 36 may be pre-arranged so that the retention position is reached and maintained by the capsule 6 in the absence of elastic stresses on the element 36: in this case, the presence of possible elastic means and / or the inherent elasticity of the material constituting the element 36 is exploited to achieve its bifurcation and subsequent return to the equilibrium position.

[0096] The body of each element 36 may also be shaped to interact with a part of the syringe 31 so as to obtain a bifurcation or switching of the element 36: to this end, for example, the body of the element 36 may be provided with a corresponding introduction portion or an inclined plane, or may present a protrusion designed to cooperate with a corresponding part present on the syringe 31 (such as an introduction portion or an inclined plane).

[0097] In any case, the retaining means of the unit 30 may also have a configuration different from that mentioned above, without impairing the general function of temporarily retaining the capsule 6 in an intermediate position between the capsule holder 32 and the injector 31. For example, the retaining element 36 may be a switchable shoulder of the type described in WO 2008 / 142663 A2, or may comprise a fixed guiding element, which may be engaged by the flange 8c of the capsule 6 and is designed to retain the capsule in the aforementioned intermediate position: after the capsule has been pushed into the capsule holder 32 by the movable injector 31, the possibility of deformation of the aforementioned flange 8c is exploited in order to release it from the aforementioned guiding element.

[0098] In other embodiments, the retaining means may be carried directly by the capsule holder 32 or by the injector 31, for example in the form of protruding claws or arms designed to diverge after interacting with the body of the injector 31 or the body of the capsule holder 32, respectively. In other embodiments such as the one shown, the retaining means 36 may be movable together with the injector 31, so that after the capsule 6 has been received between them, a transfer of the injector 31 towards the closed position relative to the capsule holder 32 corresponds to a similar movement of the means 36, such as to cause a transfer of the capsule 6 into the capsule holder 32.

[0099] It should be noted that, in the retaining position, the axis of the capsule 6 may also be slightly inclined: in such a variant embodiment, the conicity of the peripheral wall of the capsule 6 and of the housing defined in the capsule holder 32 may be exploited to obtain a relative movement centered between the elements in question, during the advancement of the capsule towards the capsule holder (or, in the case of a movable capsule holder, during the advancement of the capsule holder towards the capsule). On the other hand, it must be emphasized that the presence of retaining means does not constitute an essential element of the invention, for which it is possible that these means are absent (for example, in the case of a unit with rotational-translational movement, such as those described in the aforementioned documents WO 2013 / 182923 A1 and WO 2013 / 038318 A1).

[0100] Preferably, the profile of at least one of the inlet channels 2a and 33 corresponds substantially to the cross section of the capsule 6 in order to achieve quite accurately its guided introduction into the unit 30. In this perspective, the channels 2a and 33 may define opposing guiding grooves for the projecting flange 8c of the capsule 6, for example.

[0101] During loading, after the capsule 6 has passed through the aforementioned passages 2a and 33, it is received by the retaining means 36. The unit 30 may also comprise, downstream of the passage 33, two opposing linear guides, one of which is located at Figures 8 to 9 As shown schematically in Figures 8 to 9 In the figure they are indicated by 37 for guiding the capsule towards the holding means 36. These guides 37 may for example be configured as flanges for receiving the capsule 6 between them.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the syringe 31 is displaceable in two opposite directions along a substantially horizontal operating axis via a lever-type mechanical actuation system of any type known in the art, generally indicated by 38. The system 38 may be actuated, for example, by a lever member (such as the one indicated by 38a) that can be manually operated by a user of the machine 1. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the actuation system may be of the motor-driven type, i.e. comprising at least one controllable actuator, such as an electric actuator or a fluid actuator.

[0103] From the retracted position of the syringe 31 (at Figures 8 to 9 Starting from the lowering of the lever 38a, via the actuation system 38, the syringe 31 advances towards the capsule holder 32 until they are in a close together position (at Figure 12 to Figure 13 In this step, as already said, the capsule 6 previously inserted into the unit 30 and supported by the holding means 36 in an intermediate position between the syringe 31 and the capsule holder 32 is displaced towards the interior of the capsule holder 32. In the final position where the syringe and the capsule holder are close together (see Figure 12 to Figure 13 ), they define a brewing chamber in which the capsule 6 is accommodated. The injector 31 and / or the capsule holder 32 may be provided with corresponding means for piercing the capsule 6 according to known techniques, including one or more points or projections. As already said, however, the invention can also be applied in the case of a brewing unit for capsules having one or more pre-pierced end walls, or in the case of a brewing unit for capsules made of filter paper, or in the case of a brewing unit for a precursor tablet without its own casing, in which case it is not necessary to envisage piercing means in the injector 31 and / or in the capsule holder 32. The capsule 6 may also be of the type in which one of its end walls can be opened due to the pressure generated inside it after the injection of the preparation fluid, in which case only the injector 31 may be provided with means for piercing the capsule.

[0104] With the injector and the capsule holder close to each other, a preparation liquid (here hot water) is introduced into the brewing chamber, thereby coming into contact with the precursor (here ground coffee), and the resulting food product (here espresso) is available through the corresponding outlet duct ( Fig. 9and Fig.13 After dispensing, via the raising of the lever member 38a, it is possible to obtain an opposite displacement of the syringe 31 into a corresponding position in which the syringe 31 and the capsule holder 32 are set at a certain distance, i.e., a retraction ( Figures 8 to 9 In this step, the used capsule 6 is extracted from the capsule holder (e.g. via the holding device 36 itself and / or by means of an ejection member associated with the capsule holder) and then falls by gravity through the outlet channel 34 of the unit 30 into the collection container 35.

[0105] The machine 1 comprises a hydraulic circuit configured for supplying water and / or steam to a brewing chamber 30 and to at least one further dispensing element, in particular a dispensing element belonging, for example, to the aforementioned preceding dispensing head described hereinafter. As explained below, this dispensing element serves the purpose of introducing a flow of pressurized hot water and / or steam into the internal volume 16 of the container 1, which is necessary for preparing a food product starting from said at least one food substance 17 contained in this volume itself.

[0106] Examples of hydraulic circuits are shown in Fig.14 Schematically shown in FIG. 4 , where it is generally indicated by 40. The circuit 40 comprises a series of sealed conduits in fluid communication with each other, which are arranged at Figures 8 to 9 and Figure 12 to Figure 13 Not shown in the figure, but in Fig.14 In the figure, it is shown by a single line.

[0107] As from Fig.14 As it emerges, in various embodiments, the tank or source 3 has an outlet duct 42 on which operates a pump 43, which is of a type known per se, such as an electromagnetic pump. Via the duct 42, the tank 3 is connected to the inlet of a heater device 44, such as a boiler comprising an electrical resistance. The heater device 44 is configured to heat the water pushed by the pump 43 to preset temperatures. These temperatures, which include, for example, a temperature suitable for preparing espresso and the evaporation temperature of the water, can be managed by a control system of the machine 1, in particular with the aid of temperature sensors (not shown). The aforementioned control system, which preferably but not necessarily comprises an electronic microcontroller with associated memory means, can be at least partially implemented on an electronic board (such as in the case of a microcontroller) that equips the machine 1. Figures 8 to 9 and Figure 12 to Figure 13 The method is implemented on a board (represented by 39 in FIG. 1 ).

[0108] The outlet of the heating device 44 is connected to a conduit 45 for supplying pressurized hot water and / or steam to the inlet of a distributor or diverting device 46, which is for example provided with its own actuator which can be controlled by the control system of the machine 1. When in the first operating position (e.g. Fig.14 , towards the right, the device 46 sets the duct 45 in communication with the duct 47 which supplies the internal unit 30 with a corresponding preparation fluid (in this example hot water) for producing espresso via the capsule 6. In contrast, when the device 46 is in the second operating position (as viewed in FIG. Fig.14 4, to the left, the duct 45 is arranged in fluid communication with the duct 48a for supplying a corresponding external dispensing element (e.g. a dispensing element belonging to the previously mentioned dispensing head) with a corresponding preparation fluid (in this example steam). The device 46 may possibly envisage a non-operating or stationary position (in the center, e.g. Fig.14 ), wherein conduit 45 is in fluid communication with conduit 49 for returning water to tank 3.

[0109] Upstream of the chamber 30 , in particular upstream of the injector 31 , the circuit 40 preferably comprises at least one non-return valve designed to open only when the pressure of the water and / or steam delivery downstream of the heater device 44 reaches a given value.

[0110] As already mentioned, in various embodiments, the machine 1 according to the invention comprises a dispensing head, preferably mounted on a covering of the positioning space 5 ( Figure 1 ), or at least partially facing a position in space 5.

[0111] Reference Fig. 9 , Fig.13 and Figure 15 to Figure 16 In various preferred embodiments, the dispensing head comprises a movable part 50 and a fixed part 60 for guiding the movable part 50, wherein the fixed part is preferably in a fixed position relative to the structure 2 of the machine 1 and defines at least one seat or guide for guiding the displacement of the movable part 50. Preferably, the part 50 is displaceable in a substantially vertical direction between a raised or inoperative position and a lowered or operative position relative to the positioning space 5. The parts 50 and 60 can be made of a metallic material or a plastic material or a combination of these materials.

[0112] With particular reference Figure 15 to Figure 16 In various embodiments, the movable part 50 comprises at least one first distribution element 51, defined hereinafter for simplicity as "first distributor", defining a corresponding internal duct 52 having an inlet 52a and an outlet 52b; in this example, the outlet 52b is situated at the lower end of the first distributor 51. The first distributor 51 is preferably shaped so as to define, at the inlet 52a, an attachment for a pipe or the like for supplying a corresponding preparation fluid (here steam), belonging to a hydraulic circuit of the machine, such as Fig.14Preferably, associated with the lower end of the first distributor 51 is a sealing device 53 which surrounds the area into which the outlet 52b opens. The sealing device 53 may, for example, comprise an annular gasket made of elastomeric material designed to cooperate in a sealed manner with the inlet of the disposable container 11, for example with a portion of the inlet defined by the flange 26 of the syringe element or nozzle 20 (see Figures 4 to 5 ). It should be noted that, in addition or as an alternative, suitable annular sealing means, for example made of elastomeric material, may be provided on the element or nozzle 20, for example on the upper surface of the aforementioned flange 26, which is suitable for cooperating in a sealing manner with the lower end of the body of the first distributor 51.

[0113] In various preferred embodiments, functionally associated with the dispensing head is an arrangement intended to identify a predetermined position for the container 11 within the positioning space 5. This arrangement is preferably also configured to enable a substantially mechanical coupling with the inlet of the disposable container 11, namely the inlet defined by the flange 26 of the nozzle 20 and by the matching part 18 fixed relative to the upper wall 13 of the disposable container 11 in the example shown. Fig.15 and Fig.16 The aforementioned coupling arrangement, indicated as a whole by 70 , may be carried by the structure 2 or by a fixed part 60 of the dispenser head and preferably extends or is extendable at least partially to the outside of the structure 2 .

[0114] In various embodiments, the arrangement 70 is configured so that the coupling is obtained by means of a movement of the aforementioned inlet (18, 26) of the container 11 in a substantially transverse (preferably vertical) direction relative to the displacement direction of the first dispenser 51. Thus, in the illustrated case in which the first dispenser 51 is displaceable in the vertical direction, the engagement between the inlet (18, 26) of the container 11 and the arrangement 70 is obtained by means of a displacement of the container in a substantially horizontal direction within the positioning space 5 of the machine 1.

[0115] To this end, in various embodiments, the arrangement 70 comprises a fork-shaped element comprising two substantially parallel rails or arms 71 capable of at least partially penetrating into the groove 18a ( Figures 2 to 3 In other words, the two arms 71 define between them a first seat, indicated by 72, which can engage with the aforementioned groove 18a. Fig.17 and Fig.18 Such a joining step is schematically illustrated in FIG.

[0116] Preferentially, the front end of the arm 71 has at least one inclined section of the top surface so as to define an inclined surface or lead-in 73 , which facilitates the insertion and coupling of the matching part 18 in the aforementioned first seat 72 .

[0117] Preferably, the arrangement 70 (i.e. the arm 71 of the fork-shaped element) is shaped so as to define above the arm 71 a second seat 74 between which the upper flange 18b of the matching part 18 and the upper flange 26 of the nozzle 20 can pass. It will thus be appreciated that, in various embodiments, the flange 26 of the nozzle itself forms an element for coupling or positioning the container 11 relative to the machine 1 (moreover, as will be seen, the matching part 18 may also be absent, or positioned differently, or integrated in the nozzle 20 or in its flange 26).

[0118] The coupling of the groove 18a in the first seat 72 and the coupling of the flanges 18b and 26 in the second seat 74 are clearly visible, for example in FIG. Figures 19 to 20 , wherein the first distributor 51 is in a raised position. As can be noted, the seats 72 and 74 are substantially coaxial and aligned in the axial direction relative to the outlet 52b of the first distributor 51. Fig.17 It can also be noted how the fork-shaped element comprising the arms 71 is configured so that the seat 72 is closed at the rear so as to define a detent for the groove 18 a or an end of travel for the lateral insertion of the matching part 18 between the arms 71 .

[0119] Refer again Fig.15 In various preferred embodiments, the movable part 50 of the dispensing head comprises at least one second dispensing element 55, defined hereinafter for simplicity as "second dispenser", defining a corresponding internal duct 56 with an inlet 56a and an outlet 56b. In this example, the outlet 52b is located at the lower end of the second dispenser 51. In addition, the second dispenser 55 is preferably shaped so as to define, at the inlet 56a, an attachment for a tube or the like for supplying the liquid food product produced in the brewing chamber 30 (here, espresso produced by the machine 1 via the capsule 6). The aforementioned tube belonging to the hydraulic circuit of the machine may be Fig.14 In various embodiments, the conduit 48b starts directly from the brewing chamber 30, or it is connected to the outlet of the capsule holder 32 (e.g., connected to Fig. 9 and Fig.13 The portion of the conduit represented by 32a).

[0120] Preferably, associated with the lower end of the second dispenser 55 is a piercing or tearing device 57, such as a tip or a blade, which is configured to pierce or tear the upper wall 13 of the container 11 so that the food product (here espresso) dispensed by the second dispenser 55 can reach the interior of the chamber 16 of the container 11.

[0121] At this point it should be pointed out that in a preferred embodiment of the invention the peripheral area 31 of the wall or foil 13 of the container on one side is 1 The flange 15a of the container body 12 and the matching part 18 on the other side define between them an annular area 13 of the same wall 13. 3 (See Figure 3 ), the annular area 13 3 It will be at least partially pierced or torn, for example by the second dispenser 55, so that in addition to the first ingredient or liquid food substance (here fresh milk) that is already contained in the container itself from the beginning, at least one second ingredient or liquid food substance (here espresso) can be introduced into the chamber 16 of the container 11.

[0122] Preferably, the second dispenser 55 is movable with the first dispenser 51 transversely to the first dispenser 51 and transversely to the arrangement 70; i.e., it is movable substantially vertically between a respective raised or inoperative position and a lowered or operative position. To this end, preferably, the first dispenser 51 and the second dispenser 55 are integral with each other to form the movable part 50 of the dispensing head in a single body, or they are configured as different bodies fixed together to form the movable part 50. Again, preferably, the fixed part 60 of the dispensing head may define a first seat 61 for guiding the linear displacement of the first dispenser 51, and a second seat 62 for guiding the corresponding linear displacement of the second dispenser 55.

[0123] The displacement of the movable part 50 between its inoperative position and its operative position can be obtained via an appropriate mechanical transmission system via the same actuation system 38 as that used for the displacement of the injector 31 of the production unit 30. In this way, the operation of the lever member 38a can be used to cause both the displacement of the injector 31 between a position in which it is set at a distance from the capsule holder 32 and a position in which it is set close to the capsule holder 32, and the displacement of the movable part 50 of the dispensing head between a corresponding inoperative (raised) position and a corresponding operative (lowered) position. In other embodiments, the movable part 50 can be provided with its own actuation system, for example of the motor-driven type.

[0124] It should be noted that, in any case, in possible variant embodiments, the distributors 51 and 55 can be configured as different components that can be moved independently of one another via corresponding actuation systems.

[0125] As already mentioned, in Fig.19 and Fig. 201 and 2. The inlet of the container 11 (ie the inlet of the mating part 18 thereof and the flange 26 of the nozzle 20) is illustrated in FIG. 1 in which the coupling arrangement 70 of the dispensing head is mechanically coupled, wherein the movable part 50 of the dispensing head is in a raised or inoperative position.

[0126] In this state in which the groove 18a of the matching member 18 is pressed against the rear end of the seat 72 defined between the arms 71, the inlet end (24, Figures 4 to 5 ) is substantially coaxial with the outlet 52b of the first dispenser 51 below it. Also given the raised position of the second dispenser 55, its piercing means 57 extends above the foil 13 of the container 11 without constituting an obstruction to the lateral movement of the coupling of the matching part 18 with the arrangement 70 of the dispensing head.

[0127] Fig.21 and Fig. 22 The movable part 50 of the dispensing head or its dispensers 51 and 55 is shown in a respective lowered or operating position.

[0128] After lowering, the sealing means 53 of the first distributor 51 come into contact with and press against the upper surface of the flange 26 of the nozzle 20, which rests on the upper flange 18b of the matching part 18, which in turn is engaged at the bottom by the arms 71 of the fork-shaped element of the arrangement 70. In this way, a fluid seal is ensured between the outlet 52b of the first distributor 51 and the inlet (18, 26) of the container 11, without any dispersion of the prepared fluid (here steam).

[0129] It will also be appreciated that in various preferred embodiments, the coupling arrangement 70 can be configured to support the disposable container 11, which does not necessarily have to rest on the lower tray 5a of the space 5. In the illustrated example, as previously described, this function is provided by a fork-shaped element when the matching component 18 is engaged therein. It should be noted that the arrangement 70 can also be used to determine the position of maximum insertion of the nozzle 20 through the matching component 18.

[0130] The lowering of the member 50 also has the effect of causing the foil 13 of the container 11 to pass through the area 13 3 The purposely arranged device 57 of the second dispenser 55 in the embodiment of the present invention pierces or tears the second dispenser 55 ( Figure 3 ). In the lowered operating position, the outlet 56b of the second dispenser 56 projects directly into the container 11 for dispensing the corresponding component (here espresso) therein. It should be noted that the opening made in the foil 13 by the means 57 also has the effect of enabling the evacuation of air from the chamber 16 when the steam required to heat and froth the milk 17 is introduced into the chamber 16.

[0131] exist Fig.23In the figure, the container 11 can be seen after steam and espresso have been delivered into the container, wherein the cappuccino remains in the container itself. From this figure, it can be noted the presence of an opening H in the foil 13 produced by the piercing or tearing device 57 of the second dispenser 55. In contrast, Fig.24 The container 11 is illustrated at a step of consumption of a cappuccino, indicated by 17', wherein the user has removed the foil 13 with the associated matching part 18 and the nozzle 20. As can be appreciated, in addition to being used for preparing and holding the food product 17', the container 11 can then also be used directly as a cup, and as already mentioned, for this purpose it may be convenient to provide the flange 15a with a rounded outer edge 15b.

[0132] Fig.25 and Fig.26 1 illustrates a disposable container set 10 according to a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, whereby the container 11 is provided with its own lid 27, which is removably associated with the body 12, for example assembled or engaged by a snap action at the flange 15a. The lid 17, for example made of plastic material, defines a cavity 27a, so that between the lid itself and the wall or foil 13, at least the nozzle 20 (when constructed as a different component or a component to be mounted) and possibly at least one further pre-packaged cappuccino ingredient, such as a package 28 containing sweetener (e.g. sugar) and / or a package 29 containing powdered cocoa, can be accommodated. As can be appreciated, after removing the lid 27, the user can freely access the nozzle 20 and the packages 28, 29. Possibly, at least one utensil, such as a spoon made of plastic material or the like, for example a mixing rod (e.g. made of plastic or bioplastic or wood or compostable material) can be accommodated.

[0133] It should be noted that the indication function of the lid 27 can also be performed by a plastic film (which is removably associated with the foil 13 or the flange 15a or the side wall 15), or by a flexible and tearable wrapper which completely surrounds the container 11 and is designed to also contain the nozzle 20, the packaging 28, 29 and possibly the utensils.

[0134] However, after preparing the cappuccino and before removing the foil 13 (e.g. Fig.24 It may also prove convenient to use the lid 27 for temporarily reclosing the container 11 during consumption of the cappuccino, for example in order to reduce the emission of heat before its final consumption.

[0135] As can be appreciated, cappuccino can be prepared in a very simple manner. For this purpose, it will be assumed that Fig.10 The container 10 shown in the figure is stored in a refrigerated environment (such as a household refrigerator).

[0136] The user raises the lever member 38a of the machine 1 in order to cause the brewing unit ( Figure 8 ) is opened and access is gained to the inlet channels 2a and 33, and a capsule 6 for preparing espresso is introduced into the machine, which reaches the holding device 36. It will be assumed that, in the case illustrated here, the raising of the lever member 38a will also determine the passing of the movable part 50 of the dispensing head into a corresponding raised position.

[0137] The user then removes the container 10 from the refrigerator and removes the lid 27 to gain access to the nozzle 20 and packaging 28, 29. The user then inserts the nozzle 20 into the cavity 19 of the matching component 18, using the tip 23 of the nozzle 20 to cause the area 13 to 2 The tearing of the foil 13 and possibly the pre-cut or weakened area 13 2 The nozzle 20 is inserted until the aforementioned maximum insertion position, for example in which the flange 26 of the nozzle itself presses on the upper flange 18b of the matching part (as explained previously, the maximum insertion limit of the nozzle 20 through the matching part 18 can also be obtained in another way, for example by using the taper of the nozzle).

[0138] The container 11 is then brought to the machine 1 and placed in the positioning space 5. As explained, in this step, the container 11 is translated by the user in a substantially horizontal direction so that the inlet (18, 26) of the container mechanically engages with the coupling arrangement 70, as previously described (see Figure 17 to Figure 18 ). Next, the user lowers the lever 38a of the machine 1 in order to close the brewing unit 30 ( Fig.12 ), wherein the capsule 6 is enclosed inside the brewing chambers 31-32 and (in the example considered) thereby causing the lowering of the movable part 50 of the dispensing head ( Figure 21 to Figure 22 ). In this way, as explained above, a sealed connection is obtained between the outlet end 52b of the first dispenser 51 and the inlet of the container 11 (i.e. the flange 26 of the nozzle 20), and the foil 13 is pierced by the corresponding means 57 of the second dispenser 55, wherein the outlet end of the second dispenser 55 is thus directly facing the interior of the container 11.

[0139] At this point, the user can start the preparation process via the user interface 4 of the machine 1. The control system 39 of the machine controls the pump 43, the boiler 44 and the dispenser 46 ( Fig.14 ) in order to supply steam to the first dispenser 51 (ie to the nozzle 20) and then inside the container 11, thereby heating and frothing the corresponding dose of milk 17. Next, the control system controls the pump 43, the boiler 44 and the dispenser 46 ( Fig.14) in order to supply hot water to the brewing chambers 31-32, thereby obtaining espresso, which reaches the second dispenser 56 for being introduced into the container 11 already containing frothed milk.

[0140] At the end of the preparation program, the machine lever 38a can be raised so as to cause the unloading of the used capsule 6 from the brewing unit 30 and the raising of the movable part 50 of the dispensing head. The container 11 containing the cappuccino 17' can then be removed from the containing space with a horizontal movement opposite to the previous movement so as to cause the disengagement between the inlet (18, 26) of the container 11 and the coupling arrangement 70.

[0141] The user may then remove the foil 13 and the associated matching component 18 and nozzle 20 using the projection 13a and then continue consuming the cappuccino.

[0142] It will be appreciated that in the control system of the machine 1 an operating program may be stored specifically for preparing cappuccino (or some other food product), for example of the type in which the timing / amount of dispensing of steam and espresso is also optimized as a function of a preset amount of milk 17 contained in the reservoir 11.

[0143] In various particularly advantageous embodiments, the machine 1 is prearranged for automatic recognition of the container 11, for example for detecting the presence of the container itself in the space 5 and / or for selecting and / or starting the corresponding preparation program in an automatic manner. The system for detecting the presence of the container 11 and / or for recognizing the container 11 can be based on the use of a mechanical sensor (e.g. a microswitch) or a non-contact type sensor (e.g. an optical sensor or a proximity switch or an inductive sensor or an RFID). For example, the system for marking the container 11 can be based, for example, on the use of an optical sensor, capable of recognizing or distinguishing various colors or logos or graphic codes, and the foil 13 used to seal the container 11 can present various colors, or present different logos or graphic codes depending on the type of ingredient 17.

[0144] It will be appreciated that the concepts previously illustrated for the preparation of cappuccino are in fact also applicable to the preparation of other food products. For example, consider the case of a container 11 whose composition 17 is a broth or a liquid base for soup, which, according to the choice of the consumer, can be associated with various soluble or freeze-dried preparations contained in a corresponding capsule 6. In this case, the first dispenser 51 can be used to heat the broth or prepackaged base in the container 11 with steam, and a given capsule 6 can be used to add additional ingredients, as illustrated for cappuccino. Of course, the control system of the machine will be pre-arranged with a corresponding optimized preparation program. Possibly, the machine 1 can also be equipped with a sensor device and / or a device for identifying a capsule 6, so as to prevent the start of a food product preparation cycle when there is no capsule 6 in the unit 30, or to prevent the start of such a cycle when the capsule 6 loaded in the machine is incompatible with the contents of the container 11 detected in the positioning space 5.

[0145] The given dose of ingredient 17 prepackaged in the container 11 does not necessarily have to be in liquid form, it may consist of a solid substance, for example a soluble or freeze-dried substance (such as a freeze-dried broth or a base for soup). For such a case, a corresponding preparation program stored in the control system of the machine may conveniently envisage delivering a certain amount of heated water via the first dispenser 51 into the container 11, wherein the amount and temperature of the delivered water are preset according to the ingredient 17. The function of introducing water (or steam) into the container 11 can in any case be manually controlled by the user, for example via a user interface.

[0146] It is also possible for a stored preparation program to envisage using the first dispenser 51 to initially deliver a certain amount of hot water and then a determined amount of steam in order to obtain a kind of mixing of the contents using the swirling motion that the steam can induce. On the other hand, for a similar case in which the addition of further ingredients via the capsule 6 is not essential, the operating program may envisage that the hot water is delivered to the container 11 via the second dispenser 55 (and therefore using the passage through the brewing chambers 31-32), and that the steam is delivered to the container 11 via the first dispenser 51, as already described above.

[0147] From the foregoing description, the characteristics of the invention emerge clearly, as do its advantages, which are primarily represented by the hygiene of the proposed solution, by the simplicity of its use and by the fact that the quality of the final food product can be substantially independent of the skills of the person carrying out its on-site preparation. Another advantage of the proposed preferred solution is represented by the fact that, since the disposable container described can also be used directly for the consumption of the beverage, the transfer of the preparation into a different container and the resulting loss of the aesthetic appearance and characteristics of the foam can be avoided.

[0148] It is obvious that various modifications may be made by a person skilled in the art to the system, the machine and the disposable container for preparing food products thus described without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the accompanying claims.

[0149] Previously, the case of a preparation machine has been illustrated which is provided with a mechanical actuation system with manual lever operation, which system causes both the opening / closing of the brewing unit and the raising / lowering of the movable part of the dispensing head, but, as mentioned, this does not constitute an essential feature. Both the brewing unit and the dispensing head may exhibit independent movements from one another, and the first and second dispensers may also be displaceable independently from one another. Furthermore, both the dispensing unit and the dispensing head may be motor-driven, possibly with the first and second dispensers being independently motor-driven. Hybrid embodiments are also possible, for example with one of the brewing unit and the dispensing head being provided with a motor-driven actuation system and the other being provided with a manual actuation system, or again with one of the two dispensers being motor-driven and the other being manually displaceable via a mechanical system.

[0150] As already mentioned, the disposable container according to the invention can be manufactured to include the nozzle 20 from the outset, for example a nozzle made in one piece with the matching part 18, in which case the sealing function described for the flange 26 of the nozzle 20 will be performed by the upper flange 18b of the matching part 18. Moreover, for this case, the area 13 of the foil 2 The axial cavity of the whole consisting of the matching part 18 and the nozzle 20 may be absent or pre-pierced, and may be closed in a sealed manner at the top by means of a sealing film. The film may be of a peelable type, which can be removed manually by the user, or may be pierced or torn by a suitable tip or blade (for example carried by the first dispenser 51 in its area surrounded by the sealing device 53), or may be pre-cut or weakened so that the film can be torn due to the pressure exerted by the fluid coming out of the first dispenser 51.

[0151] As already mentioned, the coupling or positioning element ( 18 ) does not necessarily have to be associated with the wall 13 , its coupling function relative to the dispensing element of the machine being in fact possible by a suitable configuration of the nozzle 20 .

[0152] In other possible embodiments, the coupling or positioning element (18) may extend partially or completely under the wall 13. For example, in the case where the element 18 is associated with the inner side of the wall 13 and thus extends completely inside the volume 16, on the top surface of the wall 13, suitable graphic indications may be provided, intended to indicate to the user the area in which the syringe element or nozzle 20 is to be inserted, or the area in which the wall is to be torn open via the tip 23 of the element 20 itself. In this case, the inlet portion of the nozzle 20 will be configured for mechanical and / or hydraulic coupling relative to the dispensing head of the preparation machine. In the case in which the elements 18 and 20 are made of a single piece extending completely inside the volume 16 starting from the wall 13, this single piece may possibly be weakened at the inlet (24) of such a single piece, for example, so as to be torn open due to the pressure caused by the injected fluid. In the case of a syringe element 20 extending completely inside the volume 16, the corresponding coupling or positioning element may be constituted by a flange 26 of the syringe element itself, without the need for additional functional elements of the type represented by 18.

[0153] It will be appreciated that the position of insertion of the syringe element or nozzle 20 through the wall 13 of the container 11 does not necessarily have to be identified by a coupling or locating element such as the mating part 18. Furthermore, in any case, even in the presence of such an element, the aforementioned insertion position does not necessarily have to be centrally located relative to the wall 13.

[0154] In other embodiments (not shown), for example in which the coupling or positioning element extends completely inside the chamber 16, the function of identifying the preset position for the container 11 in the zone 5 of the machine can be obtained using means other than the element itself and other than the arrangement previously represented by 70. For example, for this purpose, the structure 2 of the machine 1 can define a seat or support in the zone 5 in which the container 11 is coupled, for example at its flange 15a.

[0155] As already mentioned, the food substances prepackaged in disposable containers may be of various types, preferentially corresponding to different preparation function conditions, such as different volumes of the container 11 and / or fillings and / or different lengths of the injector element 20. Likewise, the preparation machine 1 will preferably be provided with a plurality of corresponding programs, which are also distinguished by different operating parameters (such as duration, pressure, temperature of injecting the fluid into the container). These different programs may be directly selectable by the user (e.g. via the user interface 4), or by the control system of the machine due to automatic recognition of the container, as previously mentioned.

[0156] It will be appreciated that the disposable container 11 described may also be used separately from the brewing unit 30 of the machine 1, in particular when the ingredients or precursors or substances or food products prepackaged in the container 11 require only a supply of water and / or steam for their preparation (dilution or heating or dissolution or reconstitution, etc., depending on the type of content), without requiring any additional ingredients that can be produced via the brewing unit 30. In this regard, the machine 1 may also be configured for the introduction of steam and / or hot water only into the container 11. In any case, it is preferred for the dispensing head, even when it is intended only for the introduction of steam and / or hot water into the container, to be provided with means (e.g. a tip or a blade) for partially tearing open the wall 13 and enabling the evacuation of the air present inside the container itself during the preparation of the food product.

[0157] In other embodiments (not shown), the preparation machine may comprise, instead of a dispensing head of the type described, a tube or a rod for dispensing water and / or steam, which may be manually directed by the user outside a fixed structure of the machine or a fixed attachment outside the structure, to which the inlet of the container 11 will be coupled. In this type of embodiment, it is therefore not indispensable to place the container 11 in the positioning area 5 of the machine. Preferably, such a tube or rod or attachment is provided at its dispensing end with an arrangement for mechanical / hydraulic coupling to the inlet of the container 11, the arrangement being designed to ensure the necessary sealing. Such an arrangement may, for example, comprise an end portion of the tube or rod, which is configured for fitting in or around the inlet end of the nozzle 20, possibly provided with a sealing gasket. The aforementioned attachment may instead be configured for receiving the inlet portion of the nozzle 20 in a sealed manner, wherein the inlet portion may in this case be L-shaped. The tube, rod or attachment may conveniently be provided with a tip or the like, preferably parallel to its water and / or steam release point, for cutting the entry wall of the container to provide a discharge portion.

[0158] In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the injector element 20 extends substantially perpendicularly to the access wall 13, but of course in other embodiments the container may be pre-arranged to have an injector element extending at a different inclination.

[0159] The preparation machine or its dispensing head may also comprise only one dispensing element, such as a dispenser 51, which can be used for dispensing the second food substance and for dispensing pressurized hot water and / or steam. For example, in a possible embodiment of this type, it is possible that such a dispensing element can be selectively connected (for example via valve means controllable by the control system) to the outlet of a brewing unit of the type previously indicated by 30 and to the outlet of a boiler of the type previously indicated by 44, respectively. In an embodiment of this type, the control system of the machine may be equipped with an operating program suitable for controlling the dispensing of first hot water or steam and then the second food substance into the container 1 (or vice versa). In addition, in an embodiment of this type, suitable elements may also be provided, such as a tip or a blade, for locally piercing or tearing the access wall 13 of the container 1 and enabling the evacuation of air present in the container itself during the preparation of the food product.

Claims

1. A system for preparing a food product (17'), comprising a preparation machine (1) and a sealed disposable container (11) for preparing and preserving the food product (17'), in, The sealed disposable container (11) has an entry wall (13), a bottom wall (14) opposite to the entry wall (13) and a side wall (15), wherein the entry wall (13), the bottom wall (14) and the side wall (15) define an internal volume (16) in which a predetermined amount of at least one first food substance (17) or a precursor of the at least one first food substance (17) is prepackaged, wherein the preparation machine (1) comprises at least a fixed structure (2), a hydraulic circuit (40) and a control system (4, 39), The hydraulic circuit (40) comprises at least one water supply source (3), a device for heating water (44) and a pumping device (43), The hydraulic circuit (40) further comprises a first distribution element (51), which is designed to be supplied with pressurized hot water and / or steam. The system is characterized by: - the sealed disposable container (11) has at least one axially hollow coupling element (18, 26) substantially at the entry wall (13), the at least one axially hollow coupling element (18, 26) defining at least a portion of the inlet of the sealed disposable container (11); - the sealed disposable container (11) comprises an axially extending syringe element (20) which is connectable to or integrally formed or fixed to the at least one coupling element (18, 26) such that at least a first distal end portion (DP) of the syringe element (20) extends within the inner volume (16); - the first distribution element (51) and the at least one coupling element (18, 26) are configured to be coupled to each other, The hydraulic circuit (40) is controllable by the control system (4, 39) of the preparation machine (1) for conveying pressurized hot water and / or steam to the first dispensing element (51) for respective injection into the inner volume (16) of the sealed disposable container (11) through the injector element (20).

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: - the fixed structure (2) of the preparation machine (1) defines a container positioning area (5); - the first dispensing element (51) is part of a dispensing head (50, 60) carried by the fixed structure (2) of the preparation machine (1) and facing the container positioning area (5); and - The dispensing head (50, 60) is configured for coupling the first dispensing element (51) to the at least one coupling element (18, 26) of the sealed disposable container (11) when the sealed disposable container (11) is positioned in a substantially predetermined position within the container positioning area (5).

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The preparation machine (1) further comprises a preparation unit (30) comprising a preparation chamber (31, 32) suitable for receiving a dose (7) of a precursor of at least one second food substance and for dispensing the at least one second food substance after water and / or steam has passed through the preparation chamber (31, 32), the hydraulic circuit (40) being configured for supplying pressurized hot water and / or steam to the preparation chamber (31, 32).

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The hydraulic circuit (40) of the preparation machine (1) comprises a second dispensing element (55) which is connected in fluid communication with the outlet (32a) of the preparation chamber (31, 32) and is configured for introducing the at least one second food substance into the inner volume (16).

5. The system of claim 2, wherein: The preparation machine (1) further comprises a preparation unit (30) comprising a preparation chamber (31, 32) suitable for receiving a dose (7) of a precursor of at least one second food substance; The hydraulic circuit (40) of the preparation machine (1) comprises a second dispensing element (55) connected in fluid communication with the outlet (32a) of the preparation chamber (31, 32) and configured for introducing the at least one second food substance into the internal volume (16), and The dispensing head (50, 60) of the preparation machine (1) comprises the second dispensing element (55) and is configured for introducing the at least one second food substance into the inner volume (16) when the sealed disposable container (11) is in the substantially predetermined position.

6. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The dispensing head comprises a movable part (50) and a fixed part (60) for guiding the movable part (50), the movable part (50) being displaceable between an inoperative or raised position and an operative or lowered position relative to the container positioning area (5).

7. The system of claim 2, wherein: The dispensing head comprises a movable part (50) and a fixed part (60) for guiding the movable part (50), the movable part (50) being displaceable between an inoperative or raised position and an operative or lowered position relative to the container positioning area (5); and The movable part (50) of the dispensing head comprises the first dispensing element (51), and at least one of the first dispensing element (51) and the inlet of the sealed disposable container (11) has a sealing arrangement (53), which can cooperate with the other of the first dispensing element (51) and the inlet of the sealed disposable container (11) in a sealed manner when the movable part (50) of the dispensing head is in a corresponding operating or lowered position.

8. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The fixed structure (2) of the preparation machine (1) defines a container positioning area (5); The first dispensing element (51) is part of a dispensing head (50, 60) carried by the fixed structure (2) of the preparation machine (1) and facing the container positioning area (5); The dispensing head comprises a movable part (50) and a fixed part (60) for guiding the movable part (50), the movable part (50) being displaceable between an inoperative or raised position and an operative or lowered position relative to the container positioning area (5); and The movable part (50) of the dispensing head comprises the second dispensing element (55) and has a piercing or tearing device (57) capable of piercing or tearing the access wall (13) of the sealed disposable container (11) during the transfer of the movable part (50) of the dispensing head from the inoperative or raised position to the operative or lowered position.

9. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The preparation machine (1) comprises a coupling arrangement (70) configured to identify a predetermined position of the sealed disposable container (11) within the container positioning area (5) and / or to provide a substantially mechanical type of coupling with the sealed disposable container (11).

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein: - the at least one coupling element (18, 26) of the sealed disposable container (11) at least partially protrudes outside the inner volume (16); and / or - the coupling arrangement (70) is operatively associated with the dispenser head and is configured to provide a coupling of a substantially mechanical type with the coupling element (18, 26); and / or - The coupling arrangement (70) and the at least one coupling element (18, 26) of the sealed disposable container (11) are configured for essentially mechanical mutual coupling after a movement of the sealed disposable container (11) in a direction substantially transverse to the direction of displacement of the movable part (50) of the dispensing head (50, 60).

11. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The control system (4, 39) of the preparation machine (1) comprises at least one of the following: - a pre-stored operating program configured for controlling the dispensing of said at least one second food substance and the delivery of pressurized hot water and / or steam into said sealed disposable container (11); and - A sensor system for detecting the presence of said sealed disposable container (11) and / or the type of said sealed disposable container (11).

12. The system of claim 1, wherein: The syringe element (20) of the sealed disposable container (11) is a component different from the container body (12), the container body including the entry wall (13), the bottom wall (14) and the side wall (15), and the syringe element (20) is configured for insertion through the coupling element (18, 26).

13. The system of claim 12, wherein: - the access wall (13) comprises a pierceable foil having a peripheral area (131) fixed in a sealing manner at the upper edge (15a) of the side wall (15), at a corresponding annular flange; - said pierceable foil has, in its radially inner region relative to said upper edge (15a) of said side wall (15), said coupling element (18, 26) associated therewith; - the coupling element (18, 26) marks a first area (132) at the respective axial cavity (19) for piercing the pierceable foil and / or for introduction under guidance into the inner volume (16) of the first distal portion (DP) of the injector element (20); and / or The coupling element (18, 26) and the injector element (20) are prearranged in such a way as to define a predetermined position of the first distal portion (DP) of the injector element (20) in the internal volume (16).

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: In the predetermined position, the distal end (23) of the injector element (20) is elevated relative to the bottom wall (14) of the container body (12) and is at a substantially predetermined distance therefrom.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein: At least one of the coupling element (18, 26) and the syringe element (20) has an end-of-stroke device, which is capable of cooperating with the other of the syringe element (20) and the coupling element (18, 26) for defining a predetermined position of the first distal portion (DP) of the syringe element (20) in the internal volume (16).

16. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The sealed disposable container (11) comprises a container body (12), wherein the container body (12) comprises the entry wall (13), the bottom wall (14) and the side wall (15), wherein the entry wall (13) is configured to be removed from the container body (12) so as to enable the food product (17') to be consumed directly from the container body (12).

17. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The access wall (13) of the sealed disposable container (11) comprises a pierceable foil (13) having a peripheral area (131) fixed in a sealing manner at the upper edge (15a) of the side wall (15), defining between the peripheral area (131) and the at least one coupling element (18, 26) an area (133) of the pierceable foil (13) to be pierced by a second dispensing element (55) of the preparation machine (1).

18. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The injector element (20) of the sealed disposable container (11) has at least one outlet opening (25) in its first distal portion (DP) at a height greater than the level (L) of the first food substance (17) contained in the inner volume (16).

19. A system according to any one of claims 3 to 15, further comprising at least one capsule or pod or tablet (6) containing a dose (7) of a precursor of the at least one second food substance, the preparation chamber (31, 32) being prearranged for receiving the at least one capsule or pod or tablet (6).

20. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein: The food product (17') is a liquid food product and the first food substance (17) is a dosed liquid ingredient contained in the sealed disposable container (11).

21. A sealed disposable container (11) for preparing and preserving a food product (17'), the sealed disposable container (11) comprising a container body (12), the container body (12) having an entry wall (13), a bottom wall (14) opposite the entry wall (13) and a side wall (15), the entry wall (13), the bottom wall (14) and the side wall (15) defining an inner volume (16), in which a predetermined amount of at least one first food substance (17) or a precursor of the at least one first food substance (17) is packaged, in, Essentially at the entry wall (13), the sealed disposable container (11) has at least one axially hollow coupling element (18, 26), which defines at least a portion of the inlet of the sealed disposable container (11), wherein the sealed disposable container (11) comprises an axially extending syringe element (20) which is connectable to or integrally formed or fixed with the at least one coupling element (18, 26) such that at least a first distal end portion (DP) of the syringe element (20) extends within the inner volume (16), wherein the at least one coupling element (18, 26) of the sealed disposable container (11) is configured to be coupled to a first dispensing element (51) of a preparation machine (1) for introducing into the inner volume (16) a flow of pressurized hot water and / or steam required for preparing the food product (17'), Characterized in that the access wall (13) comprises a pierceable foil having a peripheral area (131) which is fixed in a sealed manner at the upper edge (15a) of the side wall (15), defining between the peripheral area (131) and the at least one coupling element (18, 26) an annular area (133) of the pierceable foil (13) to be pierced by a second dispensing element (55) of the preparation machine (1).

22. A machine for preparing a food product (17'), comprising at least a fixed structure (2), a hydraulic circuit (40) and a control system (4, 39), in, The hydraulic circuit (40) comprises at least one water supply source (3), means for heating the water (44) and pumping means (43), wherein the hydraulic circuit (40) further comprises a first external distribution element (51) which can be supplied with pressurized hot water and / or steam, wherein the first external dispensing element (51) is configured to be coupled to an inlet of a sealed disposable container (11) for preparing and preserving a first food product (17'), wherein the hydraulic circuit (40) is controllable by the control system (4, 39) for delivering pressurized hot water and / or steam to the first external distribution element (51), wherein the preparation machine (1) comprises a preparation unit (30), the preparation unit (30) comprising a preparation chamber (31, 32), the preparation chamber (31, 32) being adapted to receive a dose (7) of a precursor of at least one second food substance and to dispense the at least one second food substance after water and / or steam has passed through the preparation chamber (31, 32), the hydraulic circuit (40) being configured to supply pressurized hot water and / or steam to the preparation chamber (31, 32); The hydraulic circuit (40) further comprises a second distribution element (55), wherein the second distribution element (55) is connected to the outlet (32a) of the preparation chamber (31, 32) in fluid communication. Characterized in that the first dispensing element (51) is configured to be connected to the inlet of the sealed disposable container (11) in a sealed manner, and the second dispensing element (55) is configured to introduce the at least one second food substance into the inner volume (16) of the sealed disposable container (11) after piercing or tearing the entry wall (13) of the sealed disposable container (11).

23. A method for preparing a food product (17'), comprising the following steps: - providing a sealed disposable container (11) for preparing and preserving the food product (17'), the sealed disposable container (11) having a container body (12), the container body (12) having an entry wall (13), a bottom wall (14) opposite the entry wall (13) and a side wall (15), the entry wall (13), the bottom wall (14) and the side wall (15) defining an inner volume (16), the inner volume (16) containing a predetermined amount of at least one first food substance (17) or a precursor of the at least one first food substance (17), wherein the entry wall (13) of the container body (12) comprises a pierceable foil having a peripheral area (131) which is fixed in a sealing manner at the upper edge (15a) of the side wall (15); - providing a preparation machine (1) having a fixed structure (2) and a hydraulic circuit (40) comprising a first distribution element (51) and a second distribution element (55); - arranging the sealed disposable container in a predetermined position within the positioning area (5) of the preparation machine (1) so as to cause a coupling between the first dispensing element (51) and the inlet of the sealed disposable container (11); - introducing pressurized hot water and / or steam into the inner volume (16) of the sealed disposable container (11) through the aforementioned inlet and an injector element (20) of the sealed disposable container (11), the injector element (20) extending axially inside the inner volume (16); - introducing a second liquid food substance produced in the preparation machine (1) into the inner volume (16) of the sealed disposable container (11) via the second dispensing element (55) after piercing or tearing of the entry wall (13) of the sealed disposable container (11) in an annular area (133) of the pierceable foil, comprised between the peripheral area (131) of the pierceable foil and the inlet.

Images