Cleaning equipment for beverage preparation machines

Abstract

A cleaning device for a beverage preparation machine comprises at least one fluid handling device, the fluid handling device comprising a fluid handling body provided with an outflow portion for discharging a cleaning fluid. The fluid handling body comprises at least one of the following mechanisms: an inlet mechanism for introducing a fluid substance into a container for preparing a beverage product by mixing the fluid substance with an ingredient contained in the container; an outlet mechanism for allowing the beverage product to flow out of the container once the fluid substance has been introduced into the container and mixed with the ingredient. The cleaning device further comprises a cleaning device comprising a cleaning body, the cleaning body comprising one or more movable elements defining a chamber for accommodating at least a portion of the fluid handling body, and a moving mechanism for moving the one or more movable elements between an active position and an inactive position. The size and shape of the one or more movable elements and the fluid treatment body are set so that in the active position, the one or more movable elements surround at least a portion of the fluid treatment body in the chamber, so that when the cleaning fluid is ejected from the outflow portion of the fluid treatment body, the cleaning fluid can circulate in the space between the fluid treatment body and the one or more movable elements. In the inactive position, the one or more movable elements are moved away from the fluid treatment body so that the fluid treatment body and the container can be functionally connected together for preparing the beverage product and / or discharging the beverage product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning device for a beverage preparation machine, in particular a machine for preparing a beverage product by mixing a fluid substance with ingredients contained in a container, such as a sachet. Background Art

[0002] All known systems for preparing beverages at home involve a machine that receives an ingredient storage container for storing ingredients for preparing a beverage product. Typically, the ingredient container is introduced into the beverage preparation machine, and the machine passes a fluid (usually hot water) through the ingredients. The beverage product, prepared by mixing the ingredients and the fluid substance, is then dispensed from the container into a consumer receptacle (usually a cup).

[0003] Typically, fluid delivered from the beverage preparation machine to the container is introduced through a shower plate that contacts the fluid-permeable side of the container. Alternatively, the beverage preparation machine includes a fluid inlet handling device that pierces the inlet wall of the container and injects fluid into the container (typically under a certain pressure). In such beverage preparation machines known in the art, dispensing of a beverage product from a container can be performed by causing a fluid outlet handling device of the beverage preparation machine to pierce the dispensing wall of the container, the fluid outlet handling device being capable of causing the beverage product to flow out from the vicinity of the container.

[0004] In beverage preparation machines according to the prior art, the fluid inlet handling device, which is used to inject the fluid into the container, can come into contact with the ingredients. Furthermore, the fluid outlet handling device, of course, also comes into contact with the beverage product during beverage preparation. Consequently, it is necessary to clean the fluid outlet and / or the inlet handling device (and generally, any device in the machine that comes into contact with the ingredients contained in the container and / or the beverage product) immediately after beverage preparation is completed. This cleaning operation is necessary after each beverage preparation cycle in order to prevent bacterial growth and thus ensure clean and safe use for the consumer.

[0005] Therefore, a cleaning device for beverage preparation machines is needed, which eliminates the above-mentioned shortcomings of existing beverage systems. Additionally, it is important that the cleaning process performed by the cleaning device is automated for the convenience of the consumer and to ensure the integrity and safety of the cleaning process. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present invention according to claim 1 is a cleaning device for a beverage preparation machine. The cleaning device comprises at least one fluid treatment device, the fluid treatment device comprising a fluid treatment body provided with an outflow portion for discharging a cleaning fluid. The fluid treatment body comprises at least one of the following mechanisms:

[0007] - an inlet mechanism for introducing a fluid substance into the container for preparing a beverage product by mixing the fluid substance with ingredients contained in the container;

[0008] - an outlet mechanism for allowing the beverage product to flow out of the container once the fluid substance has been introduced into the container and mixed with the ingredients.

[0009] The cleaning apparatus further comprises a cleaning device comprising a cleaning body, the cleaning body further comprising one or more movable elements defining a chamber for accommodating at least a portion of the fluid treatment body, and a moving mechanism for moving the one or more movable elements between an active position and an inactive position.

[0010] The size and shape of the one or more movable elements and the fluid treatment body are set so that in the active position, the one or more movable elements surround at least a portion of the fluid treatment body in the chamber, so that when the cleaning fluid is ejected from the outflow portion of the fluid treatment body, the cleaning fluid can circulate in the space between the fluid treatment body and the one or more movable elements. In the inactive position, the one or more movable elements are moved away from the fluid treatment body so that the fluid treatment body and the container can be functionally connected together for preparing the beverage product and / or discharging the beverage product.

[0011] In a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, the fluid handling body comprises inlet means for introducing fluid material into the container and outlet means for allowing beverage product to flow from the container.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning body is provided with at least two movable elements defining a chamber. The movement mechanism thus comprises a motorized actuation system for automatically moving the two movable elements relative to each other, or vice versa, between at least one of the following positions: an active position, in which the two movable elements are connected together and define the chamber; and an inactive position, in which the two movable elements move away from each other and open the chamber.

[0013] Advantageously, the cleaning device is provided with at least one outlet for discharging the cleaning fluid.Preferably, the outlet consists of a conduit provided on at least one of the movable elements.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the fluid handling body and each movable element are connected to a base portion, and the movement mechanism comprises one or more actuator arms for connecting each movable element to the base portion. More preferably, the base portion is provided with a coupling portion arranged for removably coupling the base portion to a beverage preparation machine and is provided with at least one inlet conduit for a cleaning fluid.

[0015] Preferably, the moving mechanism comprises one or more actuator arms connected to each movable element.The actuator arms are movable between an active position and an inactive position, or vice versa.

[0016] According to a possible embodiment, the actuating arms are articulated around respective rotation pins oriented along a substantially vertical axis such that each movable element rotates in a substantially horizontal plane between an active position and an inactive position or vice versa.

[0017] According to another possible embodiment, the actuating arms are articulated around respective rotation pins oriented along a substantially horizontal axis such that each movable element rotates in a substantially vertical plane between the active and inactive positions or vice versa.

[0018] According to another possible embodiment, the actuator arm is articulated around a respective rotation pin oriented along a first axis, preferably along a substantially horizontal axis, so that each movable element rotates between an active position and an inactive position, or vice versa, while the fluid treatment device can also rotate around a second axis, preferably around a substantially vertical axis, to selectively engage and disengage the cleaning device.

[0019] Preferably, in these embodiments, the motorized actuation system may include a gear mechanism, wherein a sliding transmission is interposed between each movable element and the gear mechanism. The sliding transmission is connected at one end thereof to at least one of the actuating arms and at an opposite end thereof to the gear mechanism to move each movable element between at least one of an active position and an inactive position, or vice versa.

[0020] Preferably, in these embodiments, the moving mechanism may further include at least one elastic element that maintains the movable element in the inactive position, wherein the motorized actuation system includes a cam mechanism provided with at least one pusher element positioned between the movable elements. The cam mechanism is actuated by the motorized actuation system to overcome the elastic force of the elastic element and push the movable element toward the pusher element, thereby achieving the active position.

[0021] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, the movable element is shell-shaped, and the outer surface of the fluid treatment body has a shape that is substantially the same as the shape of the inner surface of the movable element. In the active position, the average distance between the outer surface of the fluid treatment body and the inner surface of the movable element is preferably less than 5 mm, more preferably less than 3 mm, and even more preferably less than 1 mm.

[0022] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, in the active position of the movable element, the cleaning fluid enclosed by the movable element has a volume of less than 100 ml, preferably less than 50 ml and more preferably less than 35 ml.

[0023] In addition, protection is claimed for a beverage preparation machine. The beverage preparation machine includes a fluid circulation system for a fluid substance. The fluid circulation system includes at least one fluid source, at least one fluid pump, and at least one fluid circulation conduit. The beverage preparation machine further includes at least one container holder adapted to receive a corresponding container, and a cleaning device of the type described above. The cleaning device is part of the fluid circulation system and the fluid handling device. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Additional features and advantages of the present invention are described in, and will be apparent from, the following description of presently preferred embodiments given with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a beverage preparation machine that may be provided with a cleaning device according to the present invention;

[0026] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, wherein the cleaning device is shown in an inactive or open position;

[0027] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Another perspective view of the cleaning device;

[0028] Figure 2C Is set with Figure 2A a perspective view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is shown in an inactive or open position;

[0029] Figure 2D Is set with Figure 2A Another perspective view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus, wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is shown in an intermediate position;

[0030] Figure 2E Is set with Figure 2A Another perspective view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus, wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is shown in an active or closed position;

[0031] Figure 2F Is set with Figure 2Aa cross-sectional view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 , wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is shown in an inactive or open position;

[0032] Figure 2G Is set with Figure 2A a sectional view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 , wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is shown in an intermediate position;

[0033] Figure 2H Is set with Figure 2A a cross-sectional view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 , wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is shown in an active or closed position;

[0034] Figure 3A is a perspective view of a second possible embodiment of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, wherein the cleaning device is shown in an inactive or open position;

[0035] Figure 3B Is set with Figure 3A A perspective view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus, wherein the cleaning apparatus is shown in an inactive or open position and illustrating a motorized actuation system of the cleaning apparatus;

[0036] Figure 3C Is set with Figure 3A A perspective view of a cleaning device of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the cleaning device is shown in an active or closed position and illustrating a motorized actuation system of the cleaning device;

[0037] Figure 3D yes Figure 3B Detailed cross-sectional view of

[0038] Figure 3E yes Figure 3C Detailed cross-sectional view of

[0039] Figure 4A is a perspective view of a third possible embodiment of the cleaning device of the cleaning apparatus according to the present invention, wherein the cleaning device is shown in an active or closed position;

[0040] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A a perspective view of a cleaning device of FIG. 1 , wherein the cleaning device is shown in an inactive or open position and the fluid handling device is ready to be cleaned;

[0041] Figure 4C yes Figure 4A , wherein the cleaning device is again shown in an inactive or open position, but the fluid handling device is ready for introduction into the interior of the ingredient storage container;

[0042] Figure 4D yes Figure 4A A perspective view of a cleaning device of FIG. 1 , wherein the cleaning device is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning device is shown in an active or closed position;

[0043] Figure 4E Is set with Figure 4A a perspective view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus of a beverage preparation machine, wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to the beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is shown in an inactive or open position and the fluid handling apparatus is ready to be cleaned;

[0044] Figure 4F Is set with Figure 4A a perspective view of a cleaning device of a cleaning apparatus of FIG. 1 , wherein the cleaning apparatus is connected to a beverage preparation machine and the cleaning apparatus is once again shown in an inactive or open position, but with the fluid handling device ready for introduction into the interior of the ingredient storage container;

[0045] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a fluid treatment device of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention;

[0046] Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a fluid processing device;

[0047] Figure 6A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a fluid treatment device of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention;

[0048] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A cross-sectional view of a fluid processing device;

[0049] Figure 7A is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a fluid treatment device of a cleaning apparatus according to the present invention; and

[0050] Figure 7B yes Figure 7A A cross-sectional view of a fluid handling device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] Figure 1 The layout of a beverage preparation machine which may be provided with a cleaning device according to the invention is schematically shown.

[0052] The beverage preparation machine can be of any type known in the art and is generally indicated by the reference numeral 1. The beverage preparation machine generally comprises a fluid circulation system for a fluid substance. The fluid substance is generally water in a cold state (between 4°C and 20°C), a normal temperature state (between 20°C and 35°C), or a hot state (between 35°C and 95°C). Preferably, the fluid substance is water at a temperature between 40°C and 90°C.

[0053] For example, a fluid circulation system includes at least one fluid source 2, at least one fluid pump 3, and at least one fluid circulation conduit 6. The fluid circulation system may also include at least one fluid heating element 4. Such fluid circulation systems are known in the art. The fluid source 2 may be, for example, a removable water reservoir connected to the fluid circulation system. Alternative fluid sources include, for example, a tap water connection, a can of non-aqueous edible fluid, or a water bottle connection. The fluid pump 3 may be, for example, a standard piston pump that delivers a maximum output pressure of 20 bar. Obviously, alternative fluid pumps may be provided.

[0054] The beverage preparation machine 1 comprises at least one container holder 7 adapted to receive a corresponding container C. The container holder 7 is a mechanical element adapted to ensure that the container C is stationarily positioned within the beverage preparation machine 1 (at least during the time when the machine is actually used to prepare beverages), so that a corresponding fluid circulation system can be connected in a functional manner to the container C for injecting a fluid substance into or through the container C. Such container holders are known in the art.

[0055] The beverage preparation machine 1 further comprises at least one fluid handling device 10 which is part of a fluid circulation system and comprises a fluid handling body 12 . Figure 5A-5B 、 Figure 6A-6B and Figure 7A-7B Three different preferred embodiments of a fluid handling device 10 are disclosed. In these embodiments, the fluid handling device 10 is preferably configured to introduce a fluid substance into a container C for preparing a beverage product, and to allow the beverage product to flow from the container C once the fluid substance has been introduced into the container C and mixed with the ingredients contained therein. In addition to these two functions, the fluid handling device 10 is also configured to allow a cleaning fluid (preferably the same fluid introduced into the container C for preparing the beverage product) to flow from the fluid handling body 12 of the fluid handling device, the cleaning fluid being used to clean the fluid handling body 12 of residues of the substance contained in the container C and / or residues of the beverage product.

[0056] As is well known in the art, the preparation of the beverage product is obtained by mixing a fluid substance with the ingredients contained in the container C. Preferably, the ingredients are selected from the following list: roasted ground coffee, compacted or non-compacted coffee, soluble powdered coffee or leaf tea. Dairy ingredients (e.g., milk or creamer) can also be provided in powdered soluble form, liquid concentrate form with various viscosities or gel form, as well as chocolate, fruit juice, soup, vegetable juice, broth, smoothie, puree, vegetable sauce, cream or a combination thereof. In the case of the expression "mixing of a fluid substance with ingredients", it is intended that all ingredients contained in the container C are in a form compatible with the general mixing operation (dissolution, extraction or infusion) of the fluid substance (usually water) to obtain the beverage product.

[0057] Preferably, the container C is a disposable container, such as a bag or pouch or any known container having at least a flexible side wall. The container C may also be any other openable (e.g., pierceable) closed container, such as a capsule, a pod, a pad, a bottle, a flow bag, a can, etc. The container C may alternatively be a multi-dose container having, for example, a large storage compartment for storing several doses of an ingredient and a dosing and mixing chamber capable of receiving one dose when the ingredient is transferred from the storage compartment.

[0058] exist Figure 5A-5B 、 Figure 6A-6B and Figure 7A-7B In the embodiment of the present invention, the fluid processing device 10 preferably includes a fluid processing body 12 provided with an inlet portion 14 and an outlet portion 16. Preferably, the fluid processing body 12 is a needle-shaped fluid processing body 12. In the term "needle-shaped", it is intended that the fluid processing body 12 includes at least one end portion 26, which is configured to perforate and / or pierce and / or tear a specific portion or wall of the container C, and then introduce the fluid substance into the container C. The fluid processing body 12 is formed in a manner that can at least partially penetrate the container C. More specifically, the fluid processing body 12 includes an inlet mechanism 18 for introducing the fluid substance into the container C (for example, including fluid addition pipes 18A, 18B). These inlet mechanisms 18 are arranged at the inlet portion 14 of the fluid processing body 12. In these embodiments, the fluid handling body 12 also includes at least one outlet mechanism 20 (e.g., including a fluid outflow conduit 20A and / or a fluid outflow surface 20B) for dispensing and directing a beverage product from a container C at an outlet portion 16 of the fluid handling body 12 to, for example, a user's cup placed below the fluid handling body 12.

[0059] according to Figure 5A-5BIn an embodiment of the present invention, the fluid-handling body 12 may further be provided with at least one sealing device 22 to be engaged with the container C for preventing leakage of the fluid substance and / or beverage product from said container C in an operating state of the fluid-handling device 10, i.e. at least when first the first inlet portion 14 and then the fluid substance is introduced into the container C. Preferably, in this embodiment, the sealing device 22 consists of an enlarged portion 22A of the fluid-handling body 12. More specifically, this enlarged portion 22A of the fluid-handling body 12 is comprised between a first end portion 26 and a second end portion 28 of the fluid-handling body 12 and has a cross-sectional area that is larger than any cross-sectional area of a portion of said fluid-handling body 12 comprised between its first end portion 26 and the enlarged portion 22A itself.

[0060] according to Figure 6A-6B and Figure 7A-7B In the embodiment of the present invention, no specific sealing means are provided on the outer surface of the fluid handling body 12. However, a certain sealing function may be performed by a specific portion (not necessarily an "enlarged" portion) of the outer surface of the fluid handling body 12 located below the inlet mechanism 18. If provided, this specific portion of the outer surface of the fluid handling body 12 may also be configured to adhere to the wall of the container C at the portion of the container C opened by the first end portion 26 of the fluid handling body 12. Preferably, in Figure 6A-6B and Figure 7A-7B In the embodiment of , no sealing means 22 of any kind is provided between the fluid handling body 12 and the container C, with the result that there is little or negligible leakage of the fluid substance into the user's cup during beverage preparation.

[0061] Optionally, the fluid treatment device 10 may be provided with at least one air or gas inlet hole 24, which is in fluid communication with the inlet mechanism 18 and is in fluid communication with the inlet mechanism 18. Figure 5A-5B In the embodiment of the present invention, the fluid handling body 12 is located between the first end portion 26 and the sealing device 22. Figure 5A-5B In the embodiment shown in FIG, the air or gas inlet hole 24 is in the form of a through hole obtained on the side wall of the fluid treatment body 12 and is placed in fluid communication with the inlet mechanism 18 (and in particular with the fluid addition pipe 18A) for fluid addition. The air or gas inlet hole 24 allows the inlet mechanism 18 to come into contact with the external environment under certain operating conditions of the fluid treatment device 10, and allows a predetermined amount of air or gas to be sucked in by the Venturi effect, and the air or gas is mixed with the fluid substance and introduced into the container C through the inlet mechanism 18.

[0062] exist Figure 5A-5BIn the embodiment of , the optional gas inlet hole 24 can be positioned on the fluid treatment device 10 in such a way that when the inlet portion 14 is introduced into the container C, at least in certain positions of the inlet portion 14, the gas inlet hole 24 is also inside the container C, so that there is no Venturi effect. Figure 6A-6B and Figure 7A-7B In the embodiment of FIG. 5 , the optional gas inlet hole 24 can be positioned on the fluid treatment device 10 in such a way that the optional gas inlet hole always remains outside the container C, thereby having a venturi effect.

[0063] According to the present invention, in all three embodiments of the fluid handling body 12, the latter is provided with an outflow portion 14 for outflowing a cleaning fluid (typically water). In addition to the function of introducing a fluid substance into the container C for preparing a beverage product, the fluid handling device 10 is also configured to allow the outflow of a cleaning fluid from the same inlet portion 14 provided for outflow of a fluid for preparing a beverage when the cleaning device 52 is in the cleaning position as discussed below.

[0064] According to another embodiment of the present invention (not shown), the fluid handling device 10 may include only an inlet fluid handling device or only an outlet fluid handling device, these inlet and outlet fluid handling devices being separate and distinct. The inlet fluid handling device may be of a type known in the art and include at least one fluid handling body that serves as an inlet mechanism for introducing a fluid substance into the container C to prepare a beverage product by mixing the fluid substance with the ingredients contained in the container C. The outlet fluid handling device must also be provided with a cleaning fluid inlet portion. The outlet fluid handling device may, for example, be of the same type as the fluid handling device 10 described in Figures 5-7 and therefore be provided with its own fluid handling body, but the outlet fluid handling device serves only as a device for allowing the beverage product to flow out of the container once the fluid substance is introduced into the container C (via another separate and distinct inlet handling device) and mixed with the ingredients contained in the container. Obviously, the outlet fluid handling device also serves as a cleaning device for its own components. Preferably, each of the different and separate inlet and outlet handling devices further includes a needle-shaped fluid handling body. In addition, each needle-shaped fluid handling body of the corresponding inlet and / or outlet handling device may include at least one end portion that is configured to perforate and / or pierce and / or tear a specific portion or wall of the container C and at least partially penetrate the interior of the container.

[0065] According to the present invention, the cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning device 52, which in turn includes a cleaning body, which includes one or more movable elements 54, 56 that define a chamber for accommodating at least a portion of a fluid treatment body 12. The cleaning device 52 also includes a movement mechanism 60; 62, 64, 66; 76 for moving the one or more movable elements 54, 56 between an active position and an inactive position. The one or more movable elements 54, 56 and the fluid treatment body 12 are sized and shaped such that:

[0066] -In active position ( Figure 2E 、 Figure 3C and Figure 4A ), one or more movable elements 54, 56 surround at least a portion of the fluid treatment body 12 in the chamber, so that when the cleaning fluid is ejected from the outflow portion 14 of the fluid treatment body 12, the cleaning fluid can circulate in the space between the fluid treatment body 12 and the movable elements 54, 56; and

[0067] -In the inactive position ( Figure 2A 、 Figure 3A and Figure 4C ), one or more movable elements 54, 56 move away from the fluid processing body 12, so that the fluid processing body 12 and the container C can be functionally connected together for preparing a beverage product and / or discharging a beverage product.

[0068] Thus, according to any of the specific embodiments of the fluid treatment device 10 described so far, in its active position, the cleaning device 52 can be configured for cleaning the fluid treatment body 12, which is capable of being used as a combined inlet fluid treatment device and outlet fluid treatment device (as disclosed in the accompanying drawings), or as only an inlet fluid treatment device (not disclosed in the accompanying drawings) or as only an outlet fluid treatment device (not disclosed in the accompanying drawings).

[0069] It should be noted that according to the present invention, the chamber at least partially surrounding the fluid treatment body 12 can be an open chamber (i.e., a chamber that does not completely surround the fluid treatment body 12) or a closed chamber (i.e., a chamber that completely surrounds the fluid treatment body 12).

[0070] according to Figure 2A-2B 、 Figure 3A and Figures 4A-4C In the embodiment of the cleaning device 52 shown in FIG, the cleaning body is provided with at least two movable elements 54, 56 defining a chamber for accommodating the fluid treatment body 12 of the fluid treatment device 10. Thus, as for example Figure 2C-2H 、 Figure 3B-3E and Figure 4D-4FAs shown in FIG, the movement mechanism 60; 62, 64, 66; 76 preferably comprises a motorized actuation system 60 for automatically moving the two movable elements 54, 56 of the mobile cleaning device 52 relative to each other at least between an active position, which is in fact a "closed" position of the two movable elements 54, 56 and in which they are connected together and define a chamber, and an inactive position, which is in fact an "open" position of the two movable elements 54, 56 and in which they move away from each other and open the chamber. In this way, the cleaning process performed by the cleaning device 52 can be automatically activated, for example after each beverage preparation cycle is completed, without requiring intervention from the user.

[0071] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the cleaning device 52 is conveniently provided with at least one outlet 58 for discharging the cleaning fluid in the active position of the movable elements 54, 56 after the cleaning cycle is completed. Preferably, the cleaning cycle performed by the cleaning device 52 lasts less than 20 seconds, more preferably less than 10 seconds. Even more preferably, the cleaning cycle performed by the cleaning device 52 lasts about 5-6 seconds.

[0072] according to Figure 2A-2H In a first possible embodiment of the cleaning device 52 shown in FIG, the outlet 58 is formed by two complementary end portions 58A, 58B having a semicircular cross section, obtained respectively on the first movable element 54 and on the second movable element 56. These two end portions 58A, 58B are joined together in the active or closed position of the two movable elements 54, 56 so as to form the outlet 58 having a circular cross section. Figure 3A-Figure 3E In a second possible embodiment of the cleaning device 52 shown in , the outlet 58 consists of a tubular duct obtained on at least one of the two movable elements 54 , 56 .

[0073] As previously mentioned, the cleaning fluid is preferably water. In one embodiment of the cleaning device according to the present invention, after the cleaning cycle is completed, the cleaning fluid is delivered through the outlet 58 towards a trash bin or waste tank (not shown) of the beverage preparation machine 1. In another preferred embodiment, the cleaning fluid is hot water (with a temperature of at least 85°C), the same fluid substance used to prepare the beverage product, and this fluid substance is used to complete the preparation of the volume of beverage product into the container C. Typically, the cleaning fluid enclosed in the chamber formed by the movable elements 54, 56 and used for the active or closed position of the cleaning device 52 has a volume of less than 100 ml, preferably less than 50 ml, and more preferably less than 35 ml.

[0074] In the cleaning device according to the present invention Figures 2A-4FIn all preferred embodiments of the present invention, the movable elements 54, 56 are shell-shaped, while the outer surface of the fluid-treatment body 12 has a shape that is substantially the same as the shape of the inner surface of these movable elements 54, 56. It has been found that the cleaning efficiency of the cleaning device 52 is improved, in particular, when the average distance between the outer surface of the fluid-treatment body 12 and the inner surface of the movable elements 54, 56 in the active or closed position is below a certain value. More specifically, this average distance value is preferably less than 5 mm, more preferably less than 3 mm, and even more preferably less than 1 mm.

[0075] Preferably, if Figure 2A-2B 、 Figure 3A and Figures 4A-4C In the embodiments of the cleaning device 52 shown, the fluid handling body 12 and the movable elements 54, 56 of the cleaning device 52 are connected to the base part 74. In these embodiments, the moving mechanism 60; 62, 64, 66; 76 includes one or more actuating arms 62, 64, which are used to connect the movable elements 54, 56 to the base part 74. The base part 74 is provided with a coupling part 46 at one end thereof. This coupling part 46 is arranged to connect the base part 74 and therefore the fluid handling device 10 and the cleaning device 52 to the beverage preparation machine 1. Conveniently, the connection between the base part 74 and the beverage preparation machine 1 is of a removable type, so that the assembly formed by the fluid handling device 10, the cleaning device 52 and the base part 74 (see Figure 2A-2B 、 Figure 3A and Figures 4A-4C The base portion 74 is also preferably provided with at least one inlet duct 82 for a cleaning fluid, so that once the assembly formed by the fluid handling device 10, the cleaning device 52 and the base portion 74 is mounted on the beverage preparation machine 1, the cleaning device 52 can be fed with said cleaning fluid.

[0076] according to Figures 2A-4F In all the embodiments shown in the drawings, in which the cleaning device 52 is automatically actuated, an actuating arm 62, 64 connected to each movable element 54, 56 is actuated by a motorized actuation system 60 between at least one of the active and inactive positions of the movable element 54, 56, or vice versa.

[0077] According to other possible embodiments of the cleaning device 52 not shown in the figures, the movable elements 54 , 56 can also be moved manually between their respective active and inactive positions, or vice versa, but automatic actuation of the cleaning device 52 is preferred.

[0078] More specifically, according to Figure 2A-2HIn a first possible embodiment of the cleaning device 52 shown in , each actuating arm 62, 64 is articulated around a respective rotation pin 66 oriented along a substantially vertical axis B so that each movable element 54, 56 rotates in a substantially horizontal plane between said active and inactive positions, or vice versa.

[0079] according to Figure 3A-Figure 3E In a second possible embodiment of the cleaning device 52 shown in , each actuating arm 62, 64 is articulated around a respective rotation pin 68, which is oriented along a substantially horizontal axis K, so that each movable element 54, 56 rotates in a substantially vertical plane between an active position and an inactive position or vice versa.

[0080] according to Figures 4A-4F In a third possible embodiment of the cleaning device 52 shown in FIG, each actuator arm 62, 64 is articulated about a respective rotation pin 68, which is again oriented along a first, substantially horizontal axis, so that each movable element 54, 56 rotates between an active position and an inactive position, or vice versa, in a substantially vertical plane. In this final embodiment, the fluid treatment device 10 can also be rotated about a second, substantially vertical axis D to selectively engage and disengage the cleaning device 52.

[0081] Preferably, Figure 2A-2H In an embodiment, i.e. in an embodiment in which the movable elements 54, 56 rotate on a substantially horizontal plane, the relative movement between the fluid treatment device 10 and the container C is a vertical movement. This relative movement allows the fluid treatment body 12 to perforate and / or pierce and / or tear a specific portion or wall of the container C and subsequently introduce the fluid substance into the container C. The container C can be maintained stationary relative to the beverage preparation machine so that the fluid treatment device 10 is moved vertically relative to the container C to achieve the corresponding operating conditions. Alternatively, the fluid treatment device 10 can be maintained stationary relative to the beverage preparation machine so that the container C is moved vertically relative to the fluid treatment device 10. However, it should be pointed out that in possible different embodiments of the fluid treatment device 10 (not shown in the accompanying drawings), the relative movement between the fluid treatment device 10 and the container C can also be guided differently, for example horizontally, or along any inclined axis, i.e. according to an axis inclined at any suitable angle relative to the vertical and / or horizontal axis.

[0082] Even the movement of the movable elements 54, 56 between the active position and the inactive position or vice versa can be different from the ones mentioned so far. Figure 2A-2H 、 Figure 3A-Figure 3E and Figures 4A-4FThe relative movement between the fluid treatment device 10 and the container C should be different from those described in the embodiments of the present invention. Generally, the relative movement between the fluid treatment device 10 and the container C should be performed in such a way that it does not conflict with the movement of the movable elements 54, 56 between the active position and the inactive position or vice versa. Preferably, the relative movement between the fluid treatment device 10 and the container C should be in a different plane and / or along a different axis relative to the movement of the movable elements 54, 56 between the active position and the inactive position or vice versa. For hygiene purposes, these different movements are preferred in order to avoid contact between one or more movable parts of the cleaning device 52 and the container C in any operating configuration of the beverage preparation machine.

[0083] In embodiments where the cleaning device 52 is automatically actuated, the motorized actuation system 60 may, for example, include a gear mechanism 70 (see Figure 3B-3E ) or cam mechanism (see Figure 2C-2H and Figure 4D-4F ). Figure 3B-3E The embodiment includes a sliding transmission 72 disposed between each movable element 54, 56 and the gear mechanism 70. The sliding transmission 72 is connected at one end thereof to at least one of the actuating arms 62, 64 and at the opposite end thereof to the gear mechanism 70 to move each movable element 54, 56 between at least one of an active position and an inactive position, or vice versa. However, it should be noted that the gear mechanism 70 itself is known in the art, and other mechanisms of the motorized actuation system 60 may be provided for moving the movable elements 54, 56.

[0084] For example, Figure 2C-2H In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 , the moving mechanism includes at least one elastic element 76 that maintains the movable elements 54, 56 in their inactive positions. In this embodiment, the motorized actuation system 60 includes a cam mechanism 80 ( Figure 2E ), the cam mechanism is provided with at least one fixed pusher element 78 placed between the movable elements 54, 56. The cam mechanism 80 is actuated by the motorized actuation system 60 to push the movable elements 54, 56 toward the two corresponding pusher elements 78, overcoming the elastic force of the elastic elements 76. In this way, the active position of the movable elements 54, 56 is automatically obtained by the movement of the components of the motorized actuation system 60, while the inactive position of these movable elements 54, 56 is also automatically obtained when the elastic force of the elastic elements 76 can be applied, that is, when the movable elements 54, 56 are released from the corresponding pusher elements 78.

[0085] Figure 4D-4F The embodiment discloses a moving mechanism, which includes a moving mechanism for Figure 2C-2HThe same type of cam mechanism 80 and fixed pusher element 78 are disclosed in the embodiment of FIG.

[0086] According to the invention, once the outflow of the beverage product from the container C has been completed, the cleaning device is activated. If necessary, the fluid handling device 10 to be cleaned is positioned in the cleaning position (this is e.g. Figures 4A-4F In the case of an embodiment, the fluid treatment device 10 is Figure 4B ), the movable elements 54, 56 are then moved in their active positions, thereby enclosing the fluid treatment body 12 in the chamber defined by the two closing elements 54, 56 ( Figure 2E 、 Figure 3C and Figure 4A Then, a predetermined volume of cleaning fluid is injected into the chamber accommodating the fluid treatment body 12 through the inlet portion 14 and the inlet mechanism 18 of the fluid treatment body 12 .

[0087] Preferably, the cleaning fluid is hot water (e.g., at a temperature of at least 85° C.), the same fluid substance as that used to prepare the beverage product. Typically, the cleaning fluid enclosed in the chamber formed by the one or more movable elements 54, 56 and used for the active site of the cleaning device 52 has a volume of less than 100 ml, preferably less than 50 ml, and more preferably less than 35 ml.

[0088] After this injection, a cleaning fluid is preferably delivered through the outlet 58 towards the same container in which the beverage has flowed, and this cleaning fluid is in fact water with traces of the freshly prepared beverage, thus serving to complete the preparation of this volume of beverage product into the container C. According to another embodiment (not shown), the cleaning fluid is discharged into a trash bin or waste tank (not shown) of the beverage preparation machine 1 .

[0089] It will be understood that various changes and modifications to the presently preferred embodiments of the cleaning device for beverage preparation machines described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as encompassed by the appended claims.

[0090] For example, in another embodiment of the cleaning device not shown in the drawings, the outflow portion for discharging the cleaning fluid does not have to be embedded in the fluid treatment body of the fluid treatment device. Instead, for example, the outflow portion for discharging the cleaning fluid can be composed of one or more dedicated cleaning conduits arranged in one or more movable elements of the cleaning device.

[0091] In another embodiment of the cleaning device, also not shown in the figures, the cleaning body of the cleaning device can also differ from the cleaning body described so far, that is, from a cleaning body comprising two mutually engageable movable elements. For example, the cleaning body can include a single fixed element or a single movable element, wherein the terms "fixed" and "movable" are intended to be relative to the fluid treatment body of the fluid treatment device. In addition, the cleaning body can also include a combination of at least one fixed element and at least one movable element.

[0092] More specifically, in one possible embodiment of the cleaning device, the cleaning body of the cleaning device can be provided with at least one fixed element, which replaces or adds to the two movable elements described so far. For example, the cleaning body of the cleaning device can be provided with one fixed element operatively connected to the fluid treatment device and placed at a predetermined distance from the fluid treatment body, and a complementary movable element, which is positioned away from the fixed element in the inactive position of the cleaning device, but which is in contact with the fixed element in the active position of the cleaning device, so as to form a chamber surrounding the fluid treatment body and allowing circulation of the cleaning fluid.

[0093] Alternatively, in another possible embodiment of the cleaning device, the cleaning body of the cleaning device may be provided with only one element, which may be a rigid element or a flexible element (e.g., a pouch), and which may be a fixed element or a movable element. For example, the cleaning body of the cleaning device may be a single fixed element that is assembled around the fluid treatment body of the fluid treatment device at a predetermined distance from the fluid treatment body and is suitable for rinsing the fluid treatment body.

[0094] The cleaning body of the cleaning device may also be a single movable element that moves when necessary to at least partially surround the fluid treatment body of the fluid treatment device. Figures 4A-4F Starting with the embodiment of FIG, a single movable cleaning element may be comprised solely of the upper housing 54, which is obviously sized and shaped to appropriately accommodate at least a portion of the fluid treatment body 12 in the active position. Figures 4A-4F As shown in FIG, the single upper housing 54 may be cup-shaped and may be moved downwardly to its active position so as to fit like a "hat" over the fluid handling body 12, without the need for a corresponding lower housing 56. In practice, it has been found that the presence of such a single movable element also having cleaning means provides an efficient cleaning cycle.

[0095] about Figures 4A-4FIn another embodiment, the cleaning element may be a single fixed cleaning element consisting solely of the upper housing 54 but disconnected from any movement mechanism. According to this alternative embodiment, the fluid treatment body 12 is provided with a movement mechanism capable of positioning the fluid treatment body 12 in a first position, in which the fluid treatment body is at least partially enclosed within the upper fixed housing 54, and in a second position, in which the fluid treatment body is external to the upper fixed housing 54.

[0096] Regardless of whether the cleaning body comprises one or more fixed or movable elements, it is clear that these elements can be provided with at least one outlet for discharging the cleaning fluid once the cleaning operation of the fluid treatment body is completed, and also with one or more further outlets for allowing normal operation of the fluid treatment body, i.e. an outlet for the fluid substance to be discharged into the container for the preparation of the beverage product and / or an outlet for the subsequent beverage product to flow out of the container after its preparation is completed.

Claims

1. A cleaning device for a beverage preparation machine, the cleaning device comprising at least one fluid treatment device (10), the fluid treatment device comprising a fluid treatment body (12) provided with an outflow portion (14) for outflowing a cleaning fluid, wherein the fluid treatment body (12) comprises at least one of the following means: - inlet means (18) for introducing a fluid substance into the container (C) in order to prepare a beverage product by mixing the fluid substance with ingredients contained in the container (C); - outlet means (20) for allowing the beverage product to flow out of the container (C) once the fluid substance has been introduced into the container (C) and mixed with the ingredients, The cleaning device further comprises a cleaning device (52), wherein the cleaning device comprises: a cleaning body comprising one or more movable elements (54, 56) defining a chamber for receiving at least a portion of the fluid treatment body (12); and - a movement mechanism (60; 62, 64, 66; 76) for moving the one or more movable elements (54, 56) between an active position and an inactive position, wherein the one or more movable elements (54, 56) and the fluid handling body (12) are sized and shaped such that: - in the active position, the one or more movable elements (54, 56) surround at least a portion of the fluid treatment body (12) in the chamber, so that when the cleaning fluid is ejected from the outflow portion (14) of the fluid treatment body (12), the cleaning fluid can circulate in the space between the fluid treatment body (12) and the one or more movable elements (54, 56); and - In the inactive position, the one or more movable elements (54, 56) are moved away from the fluid processing body (12), so that the fluid processing body (12) and the container (C) can be functionally connected together for preparing the beverage product and / or discharging the beverage product.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that The fluid handling body (12) comprises both the inlet means (18) for introducing the fluid substance into the container (C) and the outlet means (20) for allowing the beverage product to flow out of the container (C).

3. The cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The cleaning body is provided with at least two movable elements (54, 56), wherein the movement mechanism (60; 62, 64, 66; 76) comprises a motorized actuation system (60) for automatically moving the at least two movable elements (54, 56) relative to each other between at least one of the following positions, or vice versa: - said active position, wherein said at least two movable elements are connected together and define said chamber, and - the inactive position, in which the at least two movable elements (54, 56) move away from each other and open the chamber.

4. The cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The cleaning device (52) is provided with at least one outlet (58) for discharging the cleaning fluid.

5. The cleaning device according to claim 3, characterized in that The fluid handling body (12) and each of the movable elements (54, 56) are connected to a base portion (74), wherein the moving mechanism (60; 62, 64, 66; 76) includes one or more actuator arms (62, 64) for connecting each of the movable elements (54, 56) to the base portion (74).

6. The cleaning device according to claim 5, characterized in that The base portion (74) is provided with a coupling portion (46) and at least one inlet conduit (82) for the cleaning fluid, the coupling portion being arranged for removably coupling the base portion (74) to the beverage preparation machine.

7. The cleaning device according to claim 3, characterized in that The movement mechanism (60; 62, 64, 66; 76) includes one or more actuator arms (62, 64) connected to each movable element (54, 56), the actuator arms (62, 64) being actuated by the motorized actuation system (60) between at least one of the active position and the inactive position, or vice versa.

8. The cleaning device according to claim 7, characterized in that The one or more actuator arms (62, 64) are articulated about respective rotation pins (66; 68) oriented to: - rotating each movable element (54, 56) along a substantially vertical axis (B) in a substantially horizontal plane between said active position and said inactive position or vice versa; or - enabling each movable element (54, 56) to rotate in a substantially vertical plane between the active position and the inactive position or vice versa, along a substantially horizontal axis (K).

9. The cleaning device according to claim 7, characterized in that The one or more actuator arms (62, 64) are articulated about respective rotation pins (68) oriented along a first axis (K) to enable each movable element (54, 56) to rotate between the active position and the inactive position, or vice versa, wherein the fluid handling device (10) is also capable of rotating about a second axis (D) to selectively engage and disengage the cleaning device (52).

10. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that The motorized actuation system (60) includes a gear mechanism (70), wherein a sliding transmission (72) is interposed between each movable element (54, 56) and the gear mechanism (70), the sliding transmission (72) being connected at one end thereof to at least one of the actuating arms (62, 64) and at an opposite end thereof to the gear mechanism (70) so as to move each movable element (54, 56) between at least one of the active position and the inactive position, or vice versa.

11. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that The moving mechanism (60; 62, 64, 66; 76) includes at least one elastic element (76), which maintains the movable element (54, 56) in the non-active position, wherein the motorized actuation system (60) includes a cam mechanism (80), which is provided with at least one pusher element (78) placed between the movable elements (54, 56), and the cam mechanism (80) is actuated by the motorized actuation system (60) to overcome the elastic force of the at least one elastic element (76) to push the movable element (54, 56) toward the at least one pusher element (78), thereby obtaining the active position.

12. The cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The one or more movable elements (54, 56) are shell-shaped, and the outer surface of the fluid treatment body (12) has a shape that is substantially the same as the shape of the inner surface of the one or more movable elements (54, 56).

13. The cleaning device according to claim 12, characterized in that In the active position, the average distance between the outer surface of the fluid treatment body (12) and the inner surface of the one or more movable elements (54, 56) is less than 5 mm.

14. The cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that In the active position of the one or more movable elements (54, 56), the volume of the chamber defined by the one or more movable elements is less than 100 ml.

15. The cleaning device according to claim 4, characterized in that The at least one outlet (58) consists of a conduit provided on at least one of the movable elements (54, 56).

16. The cleaning device according to claim 9, characterized in that The respective rotation pins are oriented along a substantially horizontal axis (K); the fluid handling device (10) is also rotatable about a substantially vertical axis (D).

17. The cleaning device according to claim 13, characterized in that In the active position, the average distance between the outer surface of the fluid treatment body (12) and the inner surface of the one or more movable elements (54, 56) is less than 3 mm.

18. The cleaning device according to claim 14, characterized in that In the active position of the one or more movable elements (54, 56), the volume of the chamber defined by the one or more movable elements is less than 50 ml.

19. A beverage preparation machine (1), comprising: - a fluid circulation system for a fluid substance, said fluid circulation system comprising at least one fluid source (2), at least one fluid pump (3) and at least one fluid circulation conduit (6); - at least one container holder (7) adapted to receive a corresponding container (C); as well as - A cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, The cleaning equipment and the fluid treatment device (10) are part of the fluid circulation system.

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