Unit and production machine for preparing beverages by brewing

Abstract

The invention relates to a unit for preparing a beverage by brewing an ingredient of a product to be brewed and a beverage production machine, the unit comprising at least one brewing chamber (1a, 1b) provided with a container (2a, 2b) for the ingredient and a circuit for injecting water into the container (2a, 2b), the brewing chamber (1a, 1b) being covered by a removable tray (4), the tray (4) being provided with an opening (5), the opening (5) being selectively positionable opposite to the mouth of the container (2a, 2b) of the brewing chamber (1a, 1b) to open or close the brewing chamber (1a, 1b) depending on the position of the opening (5), the brewing chamber (1a, 1b) comprising a special sealing element, the sealing element being configured to ensure a sealed contact between the peripheral area of ​​the mouth of the brewing chamber (1a, 1b) and the lower part (3) of the tray (4).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of units for making beverages by brewing. The invention finds particularly advantageous application in the field of coffee machines producing coffee-based beverages from ground coffee. However, this does not exclude the production of other types of beverages, in particular those made only from ground coffee, or, alternatively, from other materials to be brewed. Background Art

[0002] Machines for making hot beverages from a material to be brewed, usually ground coffee, usually comprise a brewing chamber, throughout which water circulates to produce the brewed beverage at an outlet. In this configuration, the machine comprises a boiler, a water injection circuit (with a relatively high hot water pressure via a pump) and a brewing chamber, into which the hot water injection circuit opens.

[0003] The first type of machine has manual operation, the scope of which lies in the loading of the ingredients of the material to be brewed, the closing of the brewing chamber, the flow of water throughout the brewing chamber to produce the drink, and finally the opening of the brewing chamber to discharge the brewed material. Usually, this is achieved with the help of a cup holder device mounted on an easily accessible handle.

[0004] More automated machines have also been proposed, such as the example in patent publication WO 01 / 54 550 A1. Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this case, the opening and closing phases of the brewing chamber are performed via a rotating tray located above the brewing chamber, preferably a plurality of brewing chambers, so that the machine can work with a plurality of brewing chambers in parallel. The orifice through the tray can be positioned opposite the mouth of one of the brewing chambers to perform the intake of the material to be brewed or the discharge of the brewed material.

[0005] While these operations are being performed, the flow of water may occur in another brewing chamber to produce a beverage in a masked time.

[0006] In general, the machine is satisfactory due to its high efficiency. However, the movability of the tray of the machine should be well managed. In fact, the movement should be carried out while maintaining a sealed connection relative to the mouth of one of the brewing chambers, thanks to effective sealing means and / or good positioning of the orifice of the tray relative to the mouth of one of the brewing chambers.

[0007] Patent document US5007333 A discloses a machine for making brewed beverages, the machine having a device for sealing a brewing chamber. Patent document US2006 / 144243A1 proposes a solution of a brewing unit, the brewing unit having a tray capable of rotating above the brewing chamber.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a unit for producing a beverage from a material to be brewed, the unit having a removable tray, the cooperation of which with a brewing chamber is improved.

[0009] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that other advantages may be combined. Summary of the invention

[0010] To achieve this objective, according to one embodiment, a unit for preparing a beverage by brewing an ingredient of a product to be brewed is provided, the unit comprising at least one brewing chamber provided with a container for the ingredient and a circuit for injecting water into the container, the brewing chamber being covered by a removable tray, the tray being provided with an orifice adapted to be selectively placed opposite to a mouth of the container of the brewing chamber so as to open or close the brewing chamber depending on the position of the orifice, the brewing chamber comprising a sealing element configured to ensure a sealed contact between a peripheral area of ​​the mouth of the brewing chamber and a lower portion of the tray.

[0011] According to a different first aspect, a sealing element comprises:

[0012] - a first gasket, the first gasket having a first surface, the first surface of the first gasket being supported on a lower portion of the tray;

[0013] - a second gasket having a first surface, the first surface of the second gasket being supported on the peripheral area;

[0014] - a support member, the support member comprising an upper surface portion and a lower surface portion, the upper surface portion of the support member being supported on the second surface of the first gasket, and the lower surface of the support member being supported on the second surface of the second gasket.

[0015] Therefore, the sealing element has a complex structure, so that a significant degree of deformation is used to adapt to the movement of the tray and the pressure of the water injected into the brewing chamber. This is also a way to accurately adapt the gasket parameters (shape and / or material) to the stress of each part. In particular, the planar contact with the lower surface of the tray is preferably ensured by the planar surface of the first gasket. Still without limitation, the second gasket can be an O-ring to have the ability to deform and / or shift relative to the peripheral area. The support - which is preferably made of a harder material than the gasket, such as steel, another metal or a non-elastic polymer - ensures the engagement between the gaskets.

[0016] According to a further different aspect, a unit for preparing a beverage by brewing ingredients of a product to be brewed is provided, the unit comprising at least one brewing chamber provided with a container for the ingredients and a circuit for injecting water into the container, the brewing chamber being covered by a movable tray, the tray being provided with an orifice adapted to be selectively placed opposite to a mouth of the container of the brewing chamber so as to open or close the brewing chamber depending on the position of the orifice, the brewing chamber comprising: a sealing element configured to ensure a sealed contact between a peripheral area of ​​the mouth of the brewing chamber and a lower portion of the tray; and a control system for the tray, the control system being configured to drive the tray to rotate and determine a value reflecting a rotation speed.

[0017] Since this arrangement replaces or supplements the arrangement associated with the sealing gasket, the operation of the unit can be well adapted to the friction conditions of the tray, so that the continuous position of the tray is accurate; in particular, this makes the orifice of the tray directly opposite the mouth of the chamber in the open position of the chamber.

[0018] According to one possibility, the water injection path in the brewing chamber induces a water pressure on the sealing element, which water pressure is configured to increase the bearing of the first gasket on the tray.

[0019] Advantageously, arrangements relating to sealing and arrangements for speed control of the tray are combined to produce reliable and repeatable movement of the tray.

[0020] A further aspect relates to a method for controlling a tray of a unit. According to one possibility, the method comprises evaluating a difference between a determined value and a set value and, depending on the difference, modifying the control of the tray. In particular, the rotation of the tray is slowed down more or less rapidly when the tray travels between two positions, in particular between two brewing chambers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The objects, purposes, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of embodiments of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 According to the publication WO 01 / 54 550 A1 Figure 1 A stereogram of the unit.

[0023] Figure 2 According to the publication WO 01 / 54 550 A1 Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of a unit.

[0024] Figure 3 A cross section of an embodiment of the invention at the brewing chamber level is shown.

[0025] Figure 4yes Figure 3 A detail showing the formation of the gasket portion.

[0026] Figure 5A The first gasket is shown in perspective view.

[0027] Figure 5B A support which may be arranged between two washers is shown in a perspective view.

[0028] Figure 5C The second gasket is shown in perspective view.

[0029] Figure 6 The basic relative position between the tray and the two chambers is shown.

[0030] Fig. 7A A first dynamic intermediate position in the forward path between the basic position and the position in which the tray opens the first compartment is shown.

[0031] Figure 7B A second dynamic intermediate position in the forward path between the basic position and the position in which the tray opens the first compartment is shown.

[0032] Figure 8 The position of the tray opening the first chamber is shown.

[0033] Fig. 9A A first dynamic intermediate position in the return path between the position in which the tray opens the first chamber and the basic position is shown.

[0034] Fig. 9B A second dynamic intermediate position is shown in the return path between the position in which the tray opens the first chamber and the basic position.

[0035] The accompanying drawings are provided as examples and do not limit the invention. The accompanying drawings consist of schematic illustrations intended to aid in the understanding of the principles of the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Before starting to review the embodiments of the present invention in detail, optional features that can be used in combination or alternatively are listed below:

[0037] - the first surface 311 of the first gasket 31 is flat;

[0038] - the second gasket 32 ​​is an O-ring;

[0039] - the first surface of the second gasket 32 ​​is configured to be applied on two surfaces of the peripheral region with different orientations;

[0040] - the upper surface of the support 30 comprises a groove 301 for mounting the first gasket 31;

[0041] - the lower part of the support 30 comprises an area in the form of a chamfer 302;

[0042] - the brewing chamber 1a, 1b comprises at the mouth an annular portion 33 arranged backwards relative to the wall of the container 2a, 2b, the rearward annular portion 33 receiving a sealing element;

[0043] The wall of the container 2 a , 2 b comprises a cylindrical sleeve 20 , the rearward annular section 33 being delimited by the outer surface 22 of the sleeve 20 .

[0044] - the injection circuit comprises a water supply circuit 26 including a portion extending along the outer face 22 of the sleeve 20 up to a channel 27 for supplying water into the containers 2a, 2b;

[0045] The channel 27 comprises a gap space portion between the upper end of the sleeve 20 and the lower face 3 of the tray 4 .

[0046] A water supply circuit 26 is formed between the outer face 22 of the sleeve 20 and the inner face of the body 24 of the brewing chamber 1a, 1b.

[0047] the unit comprises a control system of the tray 4 configured to drive the tray 4 in rotation and to determine a value reflecting the rotation speed of the tray 4;

[0048] The control system is configured to evaluate the difference between the determined value and the set value and to modify the control of the tray 4 as a function of the difference.

[0049] the control system is configured to determine a value reflecting the rotation speed of the tray 4 by measuring the time offset between at least two predetermined angular positions of the tray 4;

[0050] The control system comprises at least one presence sensor 37 , 38 , and the tray 4 comprises at least one area detectable by the sensor 37 , 38 .

[0051] The unit according to the invention comprises one or preferably a plurality of brewing chambers, in which brewing of a product, such as ground coffee, takes place.

[0052] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An example of a unit according to patent publication WO0154550A1 is shown. Unless otherwise stated in this specification, the components of this unit may be used in the context of the unit of the present invention. Therefore, in the context of the present invention, the above components are described below.

[0053] Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment with two brewing chambers referenced 1a, 1b is shown.

[0054] Each of these chambers comprises a container, referenced 2a, 2b, suitable for receiving the ingredients of the product to be brewed in its internal volume. Means for injecting hot water allowing brewing are also provided in each of the brewing chambers 1a, 1b. A preferred embodiment will be described later. Preferably, a boiler is installed in the machine to supply hot water to the water supply circuit and thus to the chambers 1a, 1b. A pump ensures that the water is pressurized, for example above 10 bar.

[0055] According to the present invention, the brewing chambers 1a, 1b are juxtaposed, such as Figure 2 The situation of the two chambers is shown in FIG.

[0056] Furthermore, the brewing chambers 1a, 1b are covered by a movable tray 4 provided with an orifice 5. The orifice 5 can be positioned opposite one of the brewing chambers 1a, 1b to open the one, depending on the position of the movable tray 4. When the orifice 5 is not positioned opposite the brewing chambers 1a, 1b, the brewing chambers 1a, 1b are closed. Figure 2 The situation with two closed brewing chambers 1a, 1b is shown.

[0057] Obviously, the formation of a unique tray 4 provided with orifices 5 ensures the opening and closing phases of all the brewing chambers 1a, 1b.

[0058] In the preferred embodiment shown in the figure, the tray 4 can be Figure 2 However, other embodiments are possible, in particular by imparting a translational movement to the tray 4 .

[0059] according to Figure 1 and 2 According to the prior art, the sealing of the closure of the brewing chambers 1a, 1b is ensured by forming a gasket 6, for example an O-ring, between each brewing chamber 1a, 1b and the movable tray 4. However, an advantageous alternative to this O-ring will be described later.

[0060] Still Figure 2 In the embodiment of the invention, the hot water injection means are shown to be constituted by a water supply circuit 7 having a radial inlet opening to each brewing chamber 1a, 1b.

[0061] Upstream, the water injection circuit may include Figure 1 A system of at least one brewing solenoid valve 12 and a pump are shown.

[0062] Preferably, the radial injection of hot water avoids that all the injection means are carried by the tray 4 .

[0063] Still as a preferred example, Figure 2A circuit for discharging the brewed beverage via an outlet is shown. In this case, the discharge circuit towards the outlet is formed in a movable plunger 10 forming the lower wall portion 9 of the container 2a, 2b of each brewing chamber 1a, 1b. Preferably, the movable plunger 10 carries a filter ensuring that the beverage flows towards the outlet.

[0064] The formation of the plunger 10 capable of translational movement allows the internal volume of the container 2a, 2b to be varied.

[0065] Therefore, the internal volume can be adjusted according to the ingredients 3 incorporated in the container or according to the desired grinding package. In addition, the translational mobility of the plunger 6 ensures that the plunger 6 passes between the position for receiving the ingredients 3 and the position for ejecting the ingredients 3 in the orifice 5 when in use.

[0066] After brewing is complete, the used ingredient is ejected from the container 2b by full extension of the plunger 10. The used ingredient is thus recovered in the orifice 5 at the level of the movable tray 4. Preferably, the orifice 5 has a cross section of the same shape and slightly larger size than the opening of the brewing chamber 1a, 1b. In the examples of the different figures, both the brewing chamber 1a, 1b and the orifice 5 have an annular cross section with a diameter approximately corresponding to within a few millimeters.

[0067] The movable tray 4 not only facilitates ejection of the ingredient from the brewing chambers 1a, 1b, but also enables the used ingredient to be discharged from the unit. To this end, the periphery of the orifice 5 will advantageously have a thickness at least equal to the maximum height of the ejected used ingredient after brewing.

[0068] Furthermore, the discharge of the used ingredients thus present in the orifice 5 can take place by gravity after the displacement of the movable tray 4 .

[0069] Preferably, and as shown in the figures, the tray 4 is a tray that is rotatably movable, in particular, the tray 4 is a tray that is rotatably movable in a horizontal plane.

[0070] Furthermore, the unit preferably comprises two brewing chambers 1 a , 1 b positioned on the tray 4 .

[0071] The aperture 5 and the brewing chambers 1a, 1b are placed so that the aperture 5 faces (and is centered on) either of the chambers 1a, 1b when the tray 4 is rotated.

[0072] The motor drive 14 can be manufactured in a conventional manner, in particular by Figure 1 and Figure 2 This rotation about axis 13 is ensured by the gear motor and drive system shown.

[0073] Similarly, the displacement of the movable plunger 10 can be produced by a motor drive 11 of a common design.

[0074] In order to ensure full automation of the beverage making cycle, the unit will preferably comprise a kit 15 for supplying the product to be brewed. Figure 1 The illustrated set 15 leads to at least one supply passage 16. Below these passages 16, a funnel 17 can receive the ingredients of the product to be brewed by means of gravity.

[0075] In addition, if Figure 2 As shown, the lower end 18 of the funnel 17 is open at the level of the movable tray 4. The funnel 17 shown in the figures has a generally trumpet-like shape at the upper end of the funnel 17 compared to the lower end 18 of the funnel 17.

[0076] However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this configuration and in particular it is possible to form a funnel having a constant cross section over the entire height of the funnel.

[0077] In order to ensure that the ingredient is loaded into one of the brewing chambers 1a, 1b, the lower end 18 is positioned opposite one of these chambers 1a, 1b, while the opening 5 is also placed opposite this one.

[0078] In order to perform the positioning operation of the funnel 17, positioning means are provided.

[0079] Figure 1 and Figure 2 , which show a particular shape of the discharge means formed with a weight 29 mounted on the suspension means, enabling the introduction of the weight 29 into the hole 5 and its extraction from the hole 5. The weight 29 has a section of the same shape as that of the orifice 5 and the dimensions of the section of the weight 29 are slightly smaller than those of the orifice 5. In this way, the weight 29 is suitable for scraping the wall of the orifice 5, avoiding any retention of the product to be brewed.

[0080] The following is a description of the different operating steps of the unit applicable to the present invention.

[0081] The phase of introducing the ingredients of the product to be brewed is carried out at the receptacle 2b of the brewing chamber 1b. Such introduction can be carried out by positioning the movable tray 4 so that the orifice 5 faces the receptacle 2b.

[0082] Furthermore, this positioning of the movable tray 4 preferably ensures the driving of the funnel 17 , which is also positioned opposite the opening of the container 2 b .

[0083] At this point, the supply set 15 may be set into operation to ensure that the product to be brewed, such as ground coffee, is transferred into the brewing chamber 1b.

[0084] like Figure 1 As shown, the supply means 15 may comprise a plurality of grinders 19 suitable for grinding coffee particles to obtain grounds.

[0085] When the ingredient is introduced into the brewing chamber 1 b in this way, the brewing chamber 1 b can be closed by a further rotation phase of the movable tray 4 .

[0086] Then you can Figure 2 The position shown ends in which the chamber 1 b is closed and the counterweight 29 is brought back into the rest position.

[0087] At this time, brewing can be performed by injecting hot water radially into the brewing chamber 1 b through the loop 7 .

[0088] Afterwards, recover the drink in the normal manner.

[0089] Before starting the brewing phase, the movable plunger 10 may be raised to carry out packaging of the product to be brewed.

[0090] When brewing is complete, the used ingredients can be ejected from the brewing chamber 1 b.

[0091] In this case, the movable tray 4 is positioned so that the orifice 5 faces the opening of the receptacle 2b of the brewing chamber 1 b.

[0092] Thereafter, the movable plunger 10 can be translated so that the ingredient is recovered in the orifice 5. A new rotation of the movable tray 4 in the direction opposite to the previous one enables the ingredient to be discharged by gravity.

[0093] It should be noted that the brewing chamber 1a can also be operated independently during the completion of these different steps in the brewing chamber 1b. The brewing can also continue during the steps of loading the brewing chamber 1b, spraying the used ingredients and discharging the used ingredients.

[0094] Similarly, the loading, brewing, spraying and draining phases of the brewing chamber 1a may be performed while the brewing chamber 1b is in operation.

[0095] It should be noted that the movement of the movable tray 4 is preferably around Figure 6 The movable tray 4 is adapted to be rotated about this position in either direction, depending on the operation to be performed on the brewing chamber 1 b or the brewing chamber 1 a.

[0096] It should be understood that this movability of the tray 4 should occur while keeping the brewing chambers 1 a , 1 b covered and sealed by the tray 4 .

[0097] in this case, Figures 3 to 5CAn embodiment of the invention is shown which ensures an optimal seal. The sealing element comprises a number of components which will be described in detail below. The sealing element is configured to surround the mouth of the container 2a, 2b under consideration. Figure 3 In the arrangement of, the brewing chamber 1a comprises, at the level of the mouth, a peripheral area with a closed contour, which is advantageously annular, to form a rearward annular portion 33 (ie, at the periphery) of the container 2a. This rearward portion may be formed in a part of the body 24 of the brewing chamber.

[0098] In this embodiment, the wall of the container is at least partially defined by an inner surface 21 of a cylindrical sleeve 20, the longitudinal axis of which extends according to the movable direction of the plunger 10. For example, the sleeve 20 can be metal. Advantageously, the space for accommodating the sealing element is located on the opposite face of the sleeve 20. The chamber of the sealing element is then defined by a rearward portion formed in the body 24 and a wall also referred to as the outer surface 22 of the sleeve 20.

[0099] Figure 4 The components of the sealing element and their cooperation with the surroundings are shown in more detail. The first gasket 31 is applied to the lower part 3 of the tray 4 by means of a first bearing surface 311 which is preferably flat like the corresponding part of the lower part 3. Figure 5A At the opposite surface, indicated at 312, the first gasket 31 cooperates with the support 30. Advantageously, the support 30 comprises a groove 301 receiving the lower portion of the first gasket 31, preferably in the form of an annular groove with a closed profile.

[0100] Preferably, the first gasket 31 is made of a polymer material with a relatively low friction coefficient. In particular, the polymer material may be polytetrafluoroethylene. In this way, the mobility of the tray 4 does not cause a relatively high friction force relative to the first gasket 31.

[0101] The sealing element comprises a second gasket 32, which is opposite to the first gasket 31 relative to the support 30. The second gasket 32 ​​cooperates with the peripheral area of ​​the brewing chamber in the area for accommodating the sealing element. Advantageously, the second gasket 32 ​​is an O-ring. The O-ring can be made of an elastic material. In this case, in general, the elastic modulus of the second gasket 32 ​​is preferably strictly higher than the elastic modulus of the first gasket 31, so as to give the second gasket 32 ​​an adaptability function to the stresses to which the sealing element is subjected. In this arrangement structure, the material of the first gasket 31 that is most suitable for the first gasket 31 to cooperate with the lower part 3 of the tray 4 can be selected when the second gasket 32 ​​has an appropriate elastic deformation capacity.

[0102] exist Figure 4In the configuration shown, the gasket 32 ​​cooperates with the peripheral area of ​​the mouth of the brewing chamber at two locations of the peripheral area. In practice, the peripheral area is an annular portion 33 comprising a first wall oriented radially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the brewing chamber and a second wall oriented according to the longitudinal axis, advantageously with an annular cross section. At the level of the first wall, a first surface 331 of the peripheral area cooperates with the gasket 32. At the level of the second wall, a second surface 332 of the peripheral area cooperates with the gasket 32. It should be understood that the gasket 32 ​​is thus abutted in two directions to ensure that it is fixed.

[0103] Of course, the overall height of the sealing element, compared to the distance separating the first surface 331 of the peripheral area and the lower part 3 of the tray 4, is configured to ensure the sealing support of the sealing element to the lower part 3. The elasticity of the gaskets 31, 32, in particular the elasticity of the gasket 32, can be adjusted so that the sealing element deforms slightly under compression in the housing below the tray 4.

[0104] The other part of the second gasket 32 ​​is supported on the support 30 via the lower part of the support 30. At this level, the support 30 advantageously has a three-dimensional shape forming an angle opposite to the angle formed by the first surface 311 and the second surface 312. Furthermore, a connecting chamfer 300 preferably connects the two side walls of the angle.

[0105] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5C The first gasket 31 , the support member 30 and the second gasket 32 ​​are shown in sequence.

[0106] As previously referred Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, according to the invention, it is advantageous to inject water laterally into the containers 2a, 2b. Figure 3 In the configuration of , the water supply path towards the brewing chamber comprises a passage from the injector 25 (which itself is preferably connected to a further upstream part of a hydraulic circuit which may include a pump, a boiler) through the space defined by the outer wall of the sleeve 20 to the container 2a. Figure 4 As shown, the water supply circuit 26 includes a gap channel between the outer surface 22 of the sleeve 20 and the inner surface of the body 24 .

[0107] The downward passage of water is prevented by means of a gasket 23 sealing the support at this level between the external face of the sleeve 20 and the internal wall of the body 24 .

[0108] On the contrary, when the water flows upwards, it finds the passage 27 between the lower part 3 of the tray 4 and the distal end of the sleeve 20. The path of the water formed by the parts 26 and 27 does not need to have a large volume. In particular, it is sufficient that the spacing between the distal end of the sleeve 20 and the lower part 3 of the tray 4 is at least 1 / 10 of a millimeter. The same is true for the spacing between the outer face 22 of the sleeve 20 and the inner face of the body 24. Possibly, opposite the outlet of the injector 25, the circuit 26 can be wider, for example by forming a groove on the inner wall of the body 24.

[0109] At the peripheral area receiving the sealing element, the support 30 advantageously has a cylindrical inner wall which forms the inner surface of the sealing element and also forms a passage space between the inner surface and the outer surface of the sleeve. The gap through which water can pass may be in the same range as described above.

[0110] Advantageously, the support 30 is in contact neither with the lower part 3 of the tray 4 nor with the first surface 311 of the annular portion 33 forming the peripheral zone. In this case, during the travel of the water, it will be understood that part of the water is introduced into the sealing element at the level of the first gasket 32. The pressure of the water applied at this level on the lower part of the support 30 preferably reinforces the application of the first gasket 31 to the lower part 3.

[0111] As above, during brewing of a beverage, water gradually descends from the channel 27 at the top of the sleeve into the container 2a, 2b. An outlet 28 in the plunger 10 ensures drainage of the brewed beverage.

[0112] Preferably, all operating cycles of the unit are automated to provide optimum productivity and ease of use for the user.

[0113] It will be appreciated that the contact fit between the lower part 3 of the tray 4 and the sealing element is an important aspect for proper operation. On the other hand, this fit may affect the movement of the tray 4. In particular, the friction under the tray 4 may cause a deviation between the theoretical stop position of the tray and the actual stop position. This deviation may occur when the gasket 31 wears or according to the variation of the operating phases of the brewing chambers 1a, 1b; in the case of a deviation according to the variation of the operating phases of the brewing chambers 1a, 1b, the expansion of the channel parts (cuttings) and the passage of water may increase the friction on the tray 4 when brewing is carried out in the chamber. Therefore, according to one aspect of the invention, it is proposed to calibrate the braking of the tray 4 to take into account these friction variations on the lower part 3 of the tray.

[0114] In this case, the unit is advantageously provided with a presence sensor, in particular a presence sensor Figure 6The figure shows a tray 4 in a top view, the tray 4 having orifices 5 arranged equidistant from the mouths of the brewing chambers 1a and 1b. The brewing chambers 1a and 1b are thus closed by the tray 4 in this configuration, which can be referred to as a rest configuration.

[0115] The sensors 37 , 38 can implement different technologies, in particular optical or magnetic technology.

[0116] Figure 6 Also shown are radial projections of the tray 4, for example in the form of legs, respectively a first leg 34, a second leg 35 and an intermediate leg 36. The intermediate leg 36 is advantageously located at an equal angular distance from the other legs 34, 35. Furthermore, this intermediate leg 36 is configured such that the leg 36 interacts with at least one of the first sensor 37 and the second sensor 38 during a rotational movement of the tray 4.

[0117] The radial projections formed by the legs define for each of the radial projections a lateral edge, the passage of which can be detected by the sensors 37 , 38 when the tray 4 rotates.

[0118] Preferably, the middle leg 36 is aligned with the orifice 5, thereby forming a symmetrical system around this aligned axis. Preferably, the brewing chamber and the other legs 34, 36 are positioned symmetrically around this axis.

[0119] Advantageously, in this rest position, the relative positions of the legs and sensors are configured such that the first sensor 37 faces the first leg 34 , while the second sensor 38 faces the second leg 35 .

[0120] A possible first function of the sensor is therefore to confirm the rest state.

[0121] During the rotational movement of the tray 4, in particular when the orifice 5 is placed opposite the mouth of one of the brewing chambers, the relative position of the legs and the sensor will be modified. Fig. 7A , Figure 7B and Figure 8 Three temporary intermediate positions of the tray 4 are shown when the orifice 5 is directed towards the mouth of the brewing chamber 1b. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B During this movement, it can be detected that the leg 36 passes in front of the first sensor 37. For example, during this movement, it can be detected that the downstream edge of the leg 36 passes in front of the sensor 37. This corresponds to Fig. 7A From the perspective of sensor 37 , this passage is represented by a falling detection signal edge that follows a rising edge corresponding to the upstream edge of leg 36 passing in front of sensor 37 .

[0122] When the rotational motion continues, Figure 7B As shown, it is the second leg 35 that reaches the first sensor 37. In particular, the upstream edge of the leg 35 can be detected, which is indicated by a rising detection signal edge of the sensor 37.

[0123] The angular offset between the legs (especially between the edges of the legs) is known, Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The measurement of the time offset between two consecutive events allows the determination of the rotation speed. Or, in other words, the time offset reveals the rotation speed of the tray 4 in terms of a factor. Without seeking the rotation speed of the tray, this time offset can also show a deviation from a set value for the offset. Thus, if the measured offset is greater than the set value, it is concluded that the rotation speed of the tray is lower than its theoretical speed. If the measured offset is smaller, the opposite conclusion is reached. If the offset is zero, this means that the actual speed of the tray corresponds to its theoretical speed.

[0124] Figure 8 An indication is provided that the movement of the tray is finished after this phase, the hole 5 having been brought into position opposite the mouth of the brewing chamber 1 b.

[0125] Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B An example of a return motion is provided so that the tray 4 can reach Figure 6 Similar to the previous case, Fig. 9A It is shown that when the downstream edge of the leg 36 passes in front of the first sensor 37 , a falling signal edge of the first sensor 37 is detected. Fig. 9B It is shown that when the upstream edge of the first leg 34 passes in front of the first sensor 37 and / or when the upstream edge of the second leg 35 passes in front of the second sensor 38, a rising signal edge is detected. As above, it can be determined Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B The time offset between the events is then used to draw conclusions about the rotation speed.

[0126] Thanks to this determination, the invention advantageously allows controlling the rotation system of the tray 4 to regulate the braking of the tray 4 .

[0127] Preferably, the control system of the tray 4 further comprises an electronic module configured to apply a power signal to the electric drive motor of the tray. Advantageously, the electronic module further comprises data processing means, for example in the form of at least one processor, and data storage means, for example in the form of at least one memory, preferably comprising at least one non-transitory storage element. Preferably, the computer program product is stored in the non-transitory memory and comprises instructions for processing the time offset information previously described and for defining commands to modify the power supply of the motor according to the offset.

[0128] The braking of the motor can thus be adjusted according to the measurements taken. In this way, the accuracy of positioning the tray (and in particular the orifice 5) relative to the chamber is increased.

[0129] The invention is not limited to the above described embodiments and extends to all embodiments covered by the claims.

[0130] Reference numerals list

[0131] 1a, 1b Brewing Room

[0132] 2a, 2b container

[0133] 3.Inner face

[0134] 4. Removable tray

[0135] 5. Orifice

[0136] 6. Sealing gasket

[0137] 7. Water supply circuit

[0138] 8. Sidewall

[0139] 9. Lower wall

[0140] 10. Plunger

[0141] 11. Plunger motor drive

[0142] 12. Solenoid valve

[0143] 13. The rotation axis of the pallet

[0144] 14.Motor drive for the tray

[0145] 15. Supply Kit

[0146] 16.Pathway

[0147] 17. Funnel

[0148] 18. Lower end

[0149] 19. Grinder

[0150] 20. Sleeve

[0151] 21.Inner face

[0152] 22. External Department

[0153] 23. Washer

[0154] 24.Ontology

[0155] 25. Injector

[0156] 26. Water supply circuit

[0157] 27. Channel

[0158] 28. Export

[0159] 29. Counterweight

[0160] 30.Support

[0161] 31. First gasket

[0162] 32. Second gasket

[0163] 33. Ring part

[0164] 34. First Leg

[0165] 35. Second Leg

[0166] 36. Middle Leg

[0167] 37. First Sensor

[0168] 38. Second sensor

[0169] 301. Slot

[0170] 302.Chamfer

[0171] 311. First Surface

[0172] 312. Second Surface

[0173] 331. First Surface

[0174] 332. Second surface.

Claims

1. A unit for preparing a drink by brewing an ingredient of a product to be brewed, said unit comprising at least one brewing chamber (1a, 1b) provided with a container (2a, 2b) for said ingredient and an injection circuit for injecting water into said container (2a, 2b), said brewing chamber (1a, 1b) being covered by a removable tray (4), said tray (4) being provided with an orifice (5) adapted to be selectively placed opposite to the mouth of said container (2a, 2b) of said brewing chamber (1a, 1b) in order to adjust the amount of water supplied to said container (2a, 2b) according to the conditions of the invention. The brewing chamber (1a, 1b) is opened or closed according to the position of the orifice (5), the brewing chamber (1a, 1b) comprising a sealing element, the sealing element being configured to ensure a sealed contact between the peripheral area of ​​the mouth of the brewing chamber (1a, 1b) and the lower part (3) of the tray (4), the unit being characterized in that the unit comprises a control system for controlling the tray (4), the control system for controlling the tray (4) being configured to drive the tray (4) to rotate and determine a value reflecting the rotation speed of the tray (4), wherein The control system is configured to evaluate a difference between the determined value and a set value and to modify the control of the tray (4) in dependence on the difference.

2. The unit according to claim 1, wherein: The control system is configured to determine a value reflecting the rotation speed of the tray (4) by measuring a time offset between at least two predetermined angular positions of the tray (4).

3. A unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The control system comprises at least one presence sensor (37, 38), and wherein the tray (4) comprises at least one area detectable by the presence sensor (37, 38).

4. The unit according to claim 3, wherein: The presence sensors (37, 38) are optical or magnetic.

5. A unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The sealing element comprises: - a first gasket (31), the first gasket (31) having a first surface (311), the first surface (311) of the first gasket being supported on the lower portion (3) of the tray (4); - a second gasket (32), said second gasket (32) having a first surface, said first surface of said second gasket (32) being supported on said peripheral region; - a support member (30), the support member (30) comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion of the support member (30) being supported on the second surface (312) of the first gasket (31), and the lower portion of the support member (30) being supported on the second surface of the second gasket (32).

6. The unit according to claim 5, wherein: The first surface (311) of the first gasket (31) is flat.

7. The unit according to claim 5, wherein: The second gasket (32) is an O-ring.

8. The unit according to claim 5, wherein: The first surface of the second gasket (32) is configured to be applied to two surfaces (331, 332) of the peripheral region having different orientations.

9. The unit according to claim 5, wherein: The upper surface of the support member (30) comprises a groove (301) for mounting the first gasket (31).

10. The unit according to claim 5, wherein: The lower portion of the support (30) comprises an area in the form of a chamfer (302).

11. A unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The brewing chamber (1a, 1b) comprises, at the mouth, an annular portion (33) arranged backward relative to the wall of the container (2a, 2b), the annular portion (33) arranged backward receiving the sealing element.

12. The unit according to claim 11, wherein The wall portion of the container comprises a cylindrical sleeve (20), and the rearwardly disposed annular portion (33) is defined by an outer surface (22) of the sleeve (20).

13. The unit of claim 12, wherein: The injection circuit comprises a water supply circuit (26) including a portion extending along the outer portion (22) of the sleeve (20) up to a channel (27) for supplying water into the containers (2a, 2b).

14. The unit of claim 13, wherein: The passage (27) includes a gap space portion between an upper end portion of the sleeve (20) and the lower portion (3) of the tray (4).

15. The unit of claim 13, wherein: The water supply circuit (26) is formed between the outer surface (22) of the sleeve (20) and the inner surface of the body (24) of the brewing chamber (1a, 1b).

16. Beverage production machine comprising at least one unit according to one of claims 1 to 15.

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