Motorized brewing unit

Abstract

A motorized brewing unit (10) for preparing a beverage from a powder product (P) comprises: a dispensing assembly comprising a first assembly portion (12) and a second assembly portion (14), the first assembly portion having a container (13) adapted to receive the powder product, the first assembly portion (12) being movable with respect to the second assembly portion between an open position and a closed position, wherein the first assembly portion (12) and the second assembly portion (14) are coupled to each other to define a brewing chamber therebetween, an electric motor (16) adapted to control the movement of the first assembly portion (12) between the open position and the closed position. The unit further comprises a reading device (40, 41) to provide a digital image of the powder product. The reading device comprises an optical sensor (40) facing a detection position of the container (13) between the open and closed positions.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a motorized brewing unit for a machine for preparing a beverage by using a powder product containing one or more ingredients, in particular coffee. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the following description, reference will be made to the use of compacted tablets for simplicity, but it is clear that the present invention is not limited to a brewing unit able to operate with tablets, but is more generally applicable also to a brewing unit using capsules or, alternatively, pods or even powder products.

[0003] Machines for preparing beverages are known, comprising a motorized brewing unit, in which the brewing unit comprises two portions adapted to define a brewing chamber and an electric motor designed to control, by means of a drive mechanism, the relative movement of the two portions between an open position, in which the two portions are spaced apart to allow the insertion of a capsule, and a closed position, in which the two portions are coupled to each other to enclose the brewing chamber. SUMMARY

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved motorized brewing unit.

[0005] This and other objects are fully achieved by the brewing unit of the present invention. The present invention also relates to a method for preparing a beverage.

[0006] Advantageous embodiments of the brewing unit according to the present invention and advantageous modes of carrying out the method according to the present invention are specified in the present invention, the content of which is to be understood as an integral part of the following description.

[0007] In summary, the present invention relates to a motorized brewing unit for preparing a beverage from a powder product containing at least one ingredient, comprising

[0008] a dispensing assembly comprising

[0009] - a first assembly portion having a container adapted to receive said powder product, and

[0010] - a second assembly portion, the first assembly portion being movable with respect to the second assembly portion between an open position, in which the first assembly portion and the second assembly portion are spaced apart from each other to allow the insertion of said powder product, and a closed position, in which the first assembly portion and the second assembly portion are coupled to each other to define a brewing chamber therebetween,

[0011] an electric motor adapted to control the movement of the first assembly portion with respect to the second assembly portion between the open position and the closed position,

[0012] The dispensing assembly further comprises readout means adapted to provide a digital image of the powder product, said readout means comprising an optical sensor facing the container in a detection position between an open position and a closed position.

[0013] Therefore, in the above-described unit, the optical sensor does not face the brewing chamber formed when the dispensing assembly is closed, and therefore it is not necessary to provide specific measures to prevent any residues generated by the brewing process from interfering with the correct functioning of the optical sensor. This produces a clear advantage from the point of view of the design of the brewing unit, and in particular of the brewing chamber.

[0014] Preferably, the brewing unit further comprises an electronic control unit configured to adjust the brewing parameters on the basis of said digital image of the powder product. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] Further features and advantages of the present application will be clarified by the following detailed description, purely by way of non-limiting example with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a brewing unit according to the present application;

[0017] Figures 2 to 5 is a cross-sectional view showing different operating positions of the dispensing assembly of the unit in Figure 1 ;

[0018] Figure 6 and Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a first assembly portion of the dispensing assembly;

[0019] Figure 8 is an exploded view of the first assembly portion;

[0020] Figure 9a , Figure 9b and Figure 10 are cross-sectional views taken at different positions along the longitudinal axis of the first assembly portion;

[0021] Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 are perspective views showing a drive gear, a cam member associated with the drive gear and a position sensor for detecting the position of the first assembly portion;

[0022] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of an electric motor for moving the first assembly portion;

[0023] Figures 15 to 18 is a side view of the brewing unit showing different cam member operating positions, respectively corresponding to Figures 2 to 5 the operating positions of the dispensing assembly shown in ;

[0024] Figures 19 to 22 is a perspective view of the inside of the brewing unit, showing different positions of the blade member corresponding to different positions of the first assembly portion;

[0025] Figure 23 and Figure 24 is an additional cross-sectional view of the brewing unit;

[0026] Figures 25 to 30 is a cross-sectional view showing the steps for advancing the tablet to the second assembly portion, pre-brewing of the tablet, brewing and compacting of the tablet, and reopening of the assembly and ejection of the tablet;

[0027] Figure 31 and Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view showing the steps for cleaning the assembly and disassembling the tablet;

[0028] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of the second assembly portion; and

[0029] Figure 34 is a cross-sectional view showing the method of washing the dispensing assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] With reference to Figure 1 , the brewing unit of a machine for preparing a beverage, in particular coffee, from a compacted tablet containing one or more ingredients, in particular coffee powder, is generally designated 10.

[0031] As mentioned above, although the present application is described with reference to the use of a compacted tablet containing one or more ingredients for preparing a beverage, it is not to be understood as limited to a brewing unit suitable for operating with tablets, but also includes the case in which, instead of a tablet, a powder contained in a capsule, pod or other similar packaging suitable for preparing a beverage by brewing is provided. Therefore, for the purposes of the present application, the term "powder product" includes both a loose powder product and a powder product packaged in the form of a capsule or pod or compacted in the form of a tablet.

[0032] With reference to Figure 2 , the brewing unit 10 essentially comprises a dispensing assembly including a movable first assembly portion 12 and a fixed second assembly portion 14, an electric motor 16 adapted to drive the relative movement of the first assembly portion 12, a drive mechanism 18 interposed between the electric motor 16 and the first assembly portion 12, and a support structure 20 supporting the first assembly portion 12, the second assembly portion 14, the electric motor 16 and the drive mechanism 18.

[0033] The second assembly portion 14 is fixed, i.e. fixed with respect to the support structure 20, while the first portion 12 is movable, in particular along a trajectory comprising curved and straight segments, between an open position, as shown in Figure 2the open position (in which the first part 12 is spaced from the second assembly part 14 to allow introduction of the tablet P) and the closed position (in which the first part 12 is coupled to the second assembly part 14 to there jointly define a brewing chamber) through a plurality of intermediate positions (as shown in Figure 4 the open position (in which the first part 12 is spaced from the second assembly part 14 to allow introduction of the tablet P) and the closed position (in which the first part 12 is coupled to the second assembly part 14 to there jointly define a brewing chamber) through a plurality of intermediate positions (as shown in Figures 2 to 5 the open position (in which the first part 12 is spaced from the second assembly part 14 to allow introduction of the tablet P) and the closed position (in which the first part 12 is coupled to the second assembly part 14 to there jointly define a brewing chamber) through a plurality of intermediate positions (as shown in

[0034] The first part 12 has a receptacle 13 adapted to receive a tablet P and to form, together with the second assembly part 14, a brewing chamber.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2 and Figure 4 the first assembly part 12 is arranged substantially vertically in the open position to facilitate insertion of the tablet P into the receptacle 13, while in the closed position it is arranged substantially horizontally in line with the second assembly part 14. In moving between the open position and the closed position, the first assembly part 12 is thus rotated through an angle of about 90°. The axis of rotation of the first assembly part 12 is indicated by x in the figures.

[0036] With reference to Figure 6 and Figure 7 the first assembly part 12 is shown. The first assembly part 12 comprises a hydraulic cylinder 121 in which a plunger 123 is mounted to slide in a rectilinear direction. In Figure 6 and Figure 7 an inlet 121a is shown through which the hydraulic cylinder 121 can be supplied with liquid, in particular water, through a not shown pipe to control advancement of the plunger 123 from Figure 6 and Figure 7 its retracted position as shown. This advancement is counteracted by elastic means 124, which in particular comprise a helical spring, and which are interposed between the plunger 123 and the bottom side of the hydraulic cylinder 121. Such elastic means 124 are thus arranged to bias the plunger 123 towards its retracted position.

[0037] The receptacle 13 is mounted on the plunger side of the hydraulic cylinder 121, whereby the plunger 123 is slidable within the receptacle 13. A brewing head 125 integral with the plunger 123 is provided on the plunger 123. In the brewing head 125, as will be described below, a pipe is provided for injecting water into the brewing chamber. On the brewing head 125, a brewing engagement is also provided for contact with the tablet P. In the example shown, the brewing engagement is configured as a filter, and will hereinafter be designated as an inlet filter. If the brewing unit is intended to operate with capsules, the brewing engagement can be configured as an element having a tip for piercing the capsule shell.

[0038] The pipe of the brewing head 125 is connected with a central pipe 123a formed by the plunger 123, which in turn is adapted to be connected to a water supply pipe (not shown).

[0039] Between the brewing head 125 and the radially inner surface 131 of the container 13, a gasket 127 is provided integral with the brewing head 125, thus slidably in contact with the radially inner surface 131 of the container 13. Advantageously, during the sliding of the brewing head 125, the gasket 127 exerts a scraping and cleaning action on the radially inner surface 131 of the container 13.

[0040] With reference to Figure 8 , the brewing head 125 is releasably mounted on the plunger 123, while the container 13 is releasably mounted on the hydraulic cylinder 121. In particular, Figure 9a and Figure 9b it is shown that the container 13 is attached to the hydraulic cylinder 121 by means of a bayonet coupling. Thus, the container 13 has a pair of engagement teeth 13a which project radially inward and are inserted into corresponding L-shaped slots 122 formed on the radially outer surface of the hydraulic cylinder 121. The brewing head 125 is snapped onto the plunger 123. Figure 10 It is shown that a plurality of constraint teeth 13b are further formed on the inner surface of the container 13, which engage corresponding axial slots 125a formed on the radially outer surface of the brewing head 125 when the plunger 123 and the brewing head 125 are in the retracted position.

[0041] The first assembly part 12 further comprises a pair of line blocks 128 which extend from the hydraulic cylinder 121 and in which corresponding straight guide slots 129 are formed. The guide slots 129 extend along a direction parallel to the sliding direction of the plunger 123.

[0042] Returning to Figures 2 to 5 , a drive mechanism 18 is provided between the electric motor 16 and the first assembly part 12 to transmit the movement generated by the electric motor 16 to said assembly part, whereby, when the electric motor 16 is supplied with a given voltage, the first assembly part 12 moves with respect to the second assembly part 14 in a direction from the open position to the closed position, while, when the electric motor 16 is supplied with a voltage opposite to the previous one, the first assembly part 12 moves with respect to the second assembly part 14 in the opposite direction, i.e. in a direction from the closed position to the open position.

[0043] The drive mechanism 18 comprises a reduction assembly 26 and a movement conversion assembly 28.

[0044] With reference also to Figures 11 to 13 , the reduction assembly 26 is preferably formed as a gear reduction assembly, comprising a pinion 30 mounted on the shaft of the electric motor 16 to be rotatably driven by said electric motor, and a gear wheel 32 (or, more precisely, as in the illustrated embodiment, a gear sector) which meshes with the pinion 30. One or more intermediate gear wheels can be interposed between the pinion 30 and the gear wheel 32.

[0045] With reference to Figures 2-6 andFigures 13-14 The movement conversion assembly 28 is configured to convert the rotational movement of the end element (driven gear) of the reduction assembly 26 into rotational and translational movement of the first assembly portion 12. In the example shown, the movement conversion assembly 28 comprises a toggle mechanism comprising a first toggle member 281 and a second toggle member 282 hinged to each other. The first toggle member 281 is rotatably integral with a shaft 283, which in turn is rotatably integral with the gear 32. The shaft 283 thus defines the rotation axis x of the first assembly portion 12 and of the gear 32. The shaft 283 is housed in a guide slot 129 of the linear block 128 of the first assembly portion 12. The second toggle member 282 is hinged to the first assembly portion 12, more specifically to the hydraulic cylinder 121, by means of a hinge pin 284. As shown, the extension of the hinge pin 284 engages a guide slot 285 formed in the lateral wall 202 of the support structure 20. Figure 24

[0046] With the above arrangement, the angular position of the gear 32 is associated with the relative position of the first assembly portion 12 with respect to the second assembly portion 14.

[0047] The second assembly portion 14 is attached to the support structure 20 and has a beverage dispensing duct system flowing into a main dispensing duct 141, in which a pre-infusion valve 142 with preloading is provided. An outlet filter 143 is provided on the second assembly portion 14, which acts as a joint between the second assembly portion 14 and the brewing chamber. A radial gasket 145 is provided around one end of the second assembly portion 14. In the closed condition of the dispensing assembly, said radial gasket 145 exerts a seal against the radially inner surface 131 of the container 13.

[0048] With particular reference to Figure 11 The brewing unit 10 further comprises a microswitch 34, the operating state of which is associated with the angular position operating of the gear 32. In particular, the operating state of the microswitch 34 is switchable between two values or states (respectively, ON and OFF operating states) by means of the mechanical action of a probe member 36 associated with the gear 32, for example.

[0049] More specifically, according to the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the brewing unit 10 comprises a cam member 38 having a profile with a plurality of protrusions and recesses arranged alternately to each other and each associated with a respective step of moving the first portion 12 with respect to the second assembly portion 14 between an open position and a closed position. The cam member 38 is rotationally integral with the gear 32, whereby the angular position of the cam member 38 is uniquely associated with the angular position of the gear 32.

[0050] The various positions of the gear 32 correspond respectively to Figures 2-5 ​position of the first assembly portion 12 is shown. In the example shown, the profile of the cam member 38 has four protrusions alternating with three recesses, namely a first protrusion 38a, a first recess 38b, a second protrusion 38c, a second recess 38d, a third protrusion 38e, a third recess 38f and a fourth protrusion 38g. Obviously, the number of protrusions and recesses can also be different.

[0051] In particular, according to Figures 15 to 18 the embodiment shown, the cam member 38 is arranged radially outside the gearwheel 32. In this case, the recesses are located at a first radial distance from the centre of rotation of the gearwheel 32, while the protrusions are located at a second radial distance from the centre of rotation of the gearwheel 32, the second radial distance being greater than the first radial distance.

[0052] Thanks to the configuration of the microswitch 34, the probe member 36 and the cam member 38 described above, during rotation of the gearwheel 32 the operating state of the microswitch 34 switches between ON and OFF. In fact, as the gearwheel 32 rotates, the probe member 36 comes into contact with the subsequent protrusion or recess, thus causing the operating state O of the microswitch 34 to change from ON to OFF or from OFF to ON.

[0053] The brewing unit 10 also comprises an electronic control unit ECU (shown only schematically in Figure 2 ) designed to control the electric motor 16.

[0054] In particular, the electronic control unit ECU is programmed to implement, in association with each switch of the operating state of the microswitch 34, a subsequent step of moving the first assembly portion 12 with respect to the second assembly portion 14, and according to the movement step implemented, to control the electric motor 16 according to a given speed profile.

[0055] The brewing unit 10 can also comprise an optical sensor 40 (shown only schematically in Figures 2-5 ). Said optical sensor 40 is housed in a seat 201 formed on the support structure 20. The optical sensor 40 is positioned so as to be able to detect the presence of the first assembly portion 12 when it is in a position located between the open position and the closed position and as Figure 3 and Figure 16The detection position is shown with the container 13 facing the first assembly portion. In the detection position, the interior of the container 13 and the tablets P therein fall within the field of view of the optical sensor 40. The optical sensor 40 is connected to a circuit 41 controlled by the electronic control unit ECU and cooperates therewith to provide a digital image of the tablets P. The electronic control unit ECU is thus programmed to perform identification of the product contained in the container 13, for example by reading an identification code or drawing affixed to the product, or other surface features of the product. In the case of bulk products or compacted tablets, the reading can include recognition of the type of blend, roast and grind based on the color and granulometry of the powder. The reading can be performed dynamically, and thus the first assembly portion 12 is detected without stopping at the detection position. In another embodiment, the reading can be performed statically, with the first assembly portion 12 being temporarily stopped at the detection position.

[0056] In the case of successful identification of the tablets, the ECU is programmed to cause the first assembly portion 12 to proceed and adjust the brewing parameters based on the identified tablets. These parameters can be, for example, the quantity of water injected into the brewing chamber, or the stroke applied to the plunger 123 before the brewing phase, as described below.

[0057] In the case of failed identification, a repetition of the reading can be envisaged. In the case of dynamic reading, this repetition can take place at a slower speed. In the case of failed identification after a predetermined number of reading attempts, it can be provided to still cause the first assembly portion 12 to proceed or to move it back to the open position.

[0058] With particular reference to Figures 19-22 , the brewing unit further comprises a movable blade member 51 rotatably positioned facing the second assembly portion 14. The blade member 51 is mounted on the support structure 20, whereby it can rotate about an axis (indicated with y in the figures) orthogonal to the output filter 143. The blade member 51 carries, on the side facing the second assembly portion 14, a first scraping element 52, and, on the side facing away from the second assembly portion 14, a second scraping element 53. The first scraping element 52 is for scraping the second assembly portion 14, while the second scraping element 53 is for scraping the container 13 of the first assembly portion 12.

[0059] Figures 19-22 The synchronization between the movement of the first assembly portion 12 and the movement of the blade member 51 is particularly highlighted. The blade member 51 is able to assume a first angular end position (hereinafter referred to as lowered position and for example indicated in Figure 19 , and a second angular end position (hereinafter referred to as raised position and for example indicated in Figure 22in the lowered position, the vane member 51 is located below the second assembly portion 14; in the raised position, the vane member 51 is located to one side of the second assembly portion 14. The vane member 51 is configured to rotate from the lowered position to the raised position, or vice versa, during the rotation movement segment of the first assembly portion 12, while remaining stationary during the translation movement segment of the first assembly portion 12. This prevents interference between the two components during operation of the brewing unit 10.

[0060] The movement of the vane member 51 is controlled by the movement of the first assembly portion 12, which is connected to the drive mechanism 18 and, for example, to an auxiliary transmission 54, as shown in Figures 2-5 . The auxiliary transmission 54 comprises a control plate 55, which is slidably mounted on the support structure 20 in the horizontal direction (see also Figure 23 and Figure 24 ). As shown in Figure 24 , the control plate 55 is arranged on the other side of the side wall 202 with respect to the first assembly portion 12. The control plate 55 carries a cam slot 56, which is in turn engaged between the second toggle member 282 and the first assembly portion 12 by an extension of the hinge pin 284. A rod 58 integral with the control plate 55 is connected to the vane member 51 by a screw coupling 99, which is configured to convert the translational movement of the rod 58 into a rotational movement of the vane member 51. The vane member can be associated with a first movable assembly portion having a movement different from the one described above, and the related auxiliary drive can therefore be configured differently.

[0061] The brewing unit 10 also comprises a fixed scraping member 61, which is positioned to intercept the container 13 during the movement of the first assembly portion 12 between the open and closed positions. The fixed scraping member 61 is mounted on the support structure 20 above the seat 201 in which the optical sensor 40 is arranged.

[0062] An example of operation of the brewing unit 10 described above will now be described in detail.

[0063] According to this example, the working steps of the machine can be identified:

[0064] 1. introduction of the tablets P into the container 13;

[0065] 2. electrical movement of the first assembly portion 12;

[0066] 3. reading out and identification of the tablets P;

[0067] 4. cleaning of the outlet filter 143 when closing the assembly;

[0068] 5. completion of the assembly closing;

[0069] 6. The tablet P is pushed to the outlet filter 143;

[0070] 7. The pre-brewing, waiting, brewing and compacting steps of the tablet P;

[0071] 8. The assembly is reopened and the tablet P is expelled;

[0072] 9. The inlet filter 126 and the outlet filter 143 are cleaned;

[0073] 10. The container 13 is repositioned for the next cycle;

[0074] A. The container 13 is disassembled for cleaning;

[0075] B. The cleaning cycle with the water flow reversed on the filters.

[0076] As described below, the steps listed above are not necessarily consecutive and some of them overlap in their time development with each other.

[0077] In step 1, the first assembly part 12 with the container 13 is arranged vertically (see, for example, Figure 2 and Figure 6 ). This arrangement allows the product, in particular the compacted tablet P, to be inserted into the container 13 by simple vertical insertion. Different heights of tablets can be accommodated in the container 13 since the spring keeps the plunger 123 and the brewing head 125 in a retracted position inside the container 13.

[0078] The electrical movement of the assembly (step 2) is carried out by the electric motor 16 located in the lower part of the machine. This movement is transmitted by a gear mechanism comprising a gear 30 and a pinion 32 to the toggle mechanisms 281, 282 which allow a 90° rotation and a linear stroke of the container 13 Figure 3 and Figure 4 ). The cam member 38 provided on the pinion 32 allows the activation of a position sensor which signals to the electronic control unit ECU when to stop the electric motor 16 in order to perform the other operations of the operating cycle.

[0079] During the movement from the open position to the closed position, the first assembly part 12 reaches the tablet P reading and recognition position (step 3). This position is necessary to allow the system to recognize the presence of a tablet P inside the container 13 before completing the closing of the dispensing assembly and to recognize the type of tablet that has been inserted and to adjust the timing of the compacting and dispensing.

[0080] The detection / recognition position is detected by the protrusion 38c of the cam member 38 present on the pinion 32 which activates a position sensor / microswitch. In this position, the electronic control unit ECU stops the electric motor 16 and the rotation of the unit for the time necessary for the system to recognize the presence and type of tablet.

[0081] During the movement from the open position to the closed position of the first assembly part 12, the outlet filter 143 (step 4) is swept by the vane member 51. The dimensions of the helical coupling 59 and of the cam groove 56 of the control plate 55 allow to adjust the activation timing of the vane member 51 as a function of the position of the first assembly part 14. The same mechanism is responsible for the counter-rotation of the vane member 51 to sweep the outlet filter 143 also in the step following the dispensing (discharge of the used tablet), while the first assembly part 12 of the container 13 returns to the open position for the next cycle.

[0082] At the end of the rotational part of the movement of the first assembly part 14, it rests on the slider 203 provided at the bottom of the support structure 20. From this position to reach the closed position, the first assembly part 14 is limited to perform only a translational movement. The closed position of the dispensing assembly is identified by a protrusion 38g of the cam member 38 dedicated to this position and present on the gearwheel 32 Figure 4 and Figure 17 ). In this position, the container 13 is mounted on the second assembly part 14. This position is maintained during the steps constituting the beverage dispensing by stopping the electric motor 16 and placing the toggle mechanism in its dead point (irreversible state).

[0083] With reference to Figure 25 and Figure 26 , the movement of the tablet P in proximity of the outlet filter 143 and the automatic adjustment as a function of the tablet height (step 6) occurs thanks to the hydraulic cylinder 121 located behind the container 13 and the hot water inlet filter 126.

[0084] The compaction is done by pumping cold water CW from a tank (not shown) to the hydraulic cylinder 121 which will be kept under pressure until the used tablet P is discharged. When the cold water CW pressure sent to the hydraulic cylinder 121 is increased, the tablet P is considered in abutment with the outlet filter 143.

[0085] For different tablet heights, different volumes of water will be sent into the hydraulic cylinder 121. To this end, the running time of the pump is measured to determine the amount of water sent into the hydraulic cylinder. Alternatively, volumetric metering can also use a flow meter.

[0086] More generally, different forms of powder products (compacted tablets, capsules or simply bulk products) and different sizes of different preparations (espresso, long cup, double cup, filter coffee) can be used. The identification system provided by the sensor 40 and the control unit ECU can be configured to set different extraction parameters as a function of the dose size and possibly to skip one or more steps in the extraction, as will be clarified below.

[0087] With reference to Figures 27-29The beverage dispensing usually, but not necessarily, comprises three different sub-steps: pre-infusion and waiting, infusion and compacting the tablet (step 7).

[0088] In the pre-infusion and waiting step ( Figure 27 ), an initial small amount of hot water HW is sent into the infusion chamber through the central duct 123a of the plunger 123, which amount does not open the pre-infusion valve 142. The small amount of water is injected and then waited for, for wetting and preparing the tablet P for the infusion step.

[0089] In the infusion step ( Figure 28 ), a second amount of hot water HW is sent to the tablet P, which can open the pre-infusion valve 142. In this step, the volume of hot water is much greater than in the previous step and is used to dispense the correct amount of beverage according to the tablet that has been inserted into the container 13. Throughout the pre-infusion and infusion steps, the pressure exerted by the plunger 123 of the hydraulic cylinder 121 is maintained.

[0090] In the compacting step ( Figure 29 ), the hot water inlet is closed and cold water is sent into the hydraulic cylinder 121 to compact and expel the hot water remaining in the used tablet.

[0091] In all the sub-steps described above, the assembly remains in the closed position, while the motor is kept stopped and the toggle mechanism is in its dead point.

[0092] Depending on the type of powdered product used, one or more of the above steps can be absent. In particular, in the case of filter preparation or soluble coffee, the compacting and pre-infusion steps are skipped. In other cases, the post-compacting can not be required. In this regard, the control unit ECU can be configured to selectively enable or disable one or more of the above steps based on the identification of the type of product after the processing of the digital images captured by the sensor 40.

[0093] The compacting step is provided by the action of the pre-infusion valve 142. By not performing the compacting step, the removal or bypassing of this valve can be selectively provided in order to proceed with the dispensing without activating the pre-infusion valve 142, for example in the case of use of filter preparation.

[0094] Once the beverage dispensing is completed, the used tablet P must be expelled to allow a new tablet to be inserted into the container 13 for the next dispensing (step 8).

[0095] To this end, the electric motor 16 is placed in reverse rotation to bring the first assembly part 12 into the expelling and discharging position ( Figure 5 and 18). The discharge position is identified by a protrusion 38e of the cam member 38 dedicated to this position and present on the gear 32. In this position, the electric motor 16 is stopped and additional cold water CW is sent into the hydraulic cylinder to push the plunger 123 into the final stroke position ( Figure 30 ), in which the inlet filter 126 is substantially horizontal with the end edge of the container 13. The pressure in the hydraulic cylinder 121 will be maintained until the opening position of the first assembly part 12 is reached.

[0096] The cleaning after the beverage dispensing is performed on the inlet filter 126 and on the outlet filter 143 by the vane member 51 and the scraping member 61. In the step of reopening the dispensing assembly, the vane member 51 performs a rotation movement opposite to the one described above. Thus, in addition to sweeping the outlet filter 143, the vane member 51 also interferes with the used tablets P, causing them to separate and fall into the underlying compartment ( Figure 31 ).

[0097] The rotation movement is continued to return to the open position, in which the container 13 with the inlet filter 126 in the maximum forward position is slid against the scraping member 61 ( Figure 32 ).

[0098] Thanks to the device described above, any dust that has settled on the inlet filter 126 and on the outlet filter 143 and that does not remain attached to the used tablets is removed and falls into the used tablet collection chamber during the compacting step.

[0099] After passing through the fixed scraping member 61 for cleaning the inlet filter 126, the cold water present in the hydraulic cylinder 121 is allowed to return into the tank in order to be used in the subsequent cycle. Thanks to the different gaskets installed in the first assembly part 12, which create several frictions, once the pressure in the hydraulic cylinder 121 is released, the spring allows the inlet filter 126 to return to its position for the next cycle, i.e. to return to the position in Figure 6 .

[0100] Also in this case, it is determined that the open position has been reached by means of a protrusion of the cam member 38, i.e. the protrusion indicated with 38a in Figure 15 , which allows the electric motor 16 to stop in the correct position.

[0101] Only when the assembly is in the open position, the container 13 and the brewing head 125 can be disassembled. In order to disassemble, it is necessary to rotate the container 13 by a certain angle (in the direction of the arrow indicated in Figure 9b ) so that the teeth 13a enter the release position. Once this has been done, the container 13 and the brewing head 125 can be slipped off as a single unit.

[0102] The disassembly of the container 13 is facilitated by the presence of restraining teeth 13b ( Figure 10), removing the brewing head 125 together with the container 13, the constraint teeth prevent the rotation of the brewing head 125 in the open position of the first assembly part 12 and constrain said brewing head to the container 13. Once the container 13 has been slid out, the brewing head can be slid in and removed from the container 13.

[0103] After cleaning the brewing head 125 with the inlet filter 126, the components can be reassembled by following the disassembly steps in reverse and making sure to keep the brewing head 125 to the end of the stroke. Once the brewing head 125 is reinstalled on the plunger 123, its correct assembly is confirmed by a single click.

[0104] An alternative way to clean the filters is to reverse the normal flow of water from the inlet filter 126 to the outlet filter 143. In this case, with no tablets present inside the container 13, the brewing unit is brought to the closed position. Once the closed position is reached, cold water is sent through the secondary channel 144 present on the second assembly part 14 (see Figure 33 ). This channel allows the water to pass through the outlet filter 143 (where most of the dust accumulates) in reverse to the normal operation, thus expelling the accumulated dust. By sending a given volume of water necessary to clean the inlet filter 126 and the outlet filter 143, but without pressurizing the brewing chamber Figure 33 and Figure 34 ), the container 13 will retract far enough to create a small opening at the bottom and directly deliver the water for cleaning into the used tablet collection chamber. In Figure 33 and Figure 34 , the path of the washing water is indicated by the dashed arrows.

[0105] Naturally, without affecting the principles of the present invention, the embodiments and construction details can vary considerably with respect to those purely described and illustrated by way of non-limiting example, without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A motorized brewing unit (10) for preparing a beverage from a powdered product (P) containing at least one ingredient, comprising: The allocation component includes - The first component (12) has a container (13) adapted to receive the powder product, and - A second component portion (14), wherein the first component portion (12) is movable relative to the second component portion between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position the first component portion (12) and the second component portion (14) are spaced apart from each other to allow the powder product to be inserted into the container, and in the closed position the first component portion (12) and the second component portion (14) are connected to each other to define a brewing chamber therebetween. Electric motor (16), adapted to control the movement of the first component portion (12) relative to the second component portion (14) between the open position and the closed position, Its features It also includes a readout device (40, 41) adapted to provide a digital image of the powder product, the readout device including an optical sensor (40) whose detection position between the open position and the closed position faces the container (13).

2. The unit according to claim 1, wherein, The optical sensor can detect the powder product in a static or dynamic manner.

3. The unit according to claim 1 or 2 further includes an electronic control unit (ECU) configured to adjust brewing parameters based on the digital image of the powder product.

4. The unit according to claim 3, wherein, The electronic control unit (ECU) is configured to determine the dosage of the powder product based on the digital image and adjust the brewing parameters according to the dosage.

5. The unit according to claim 4, wherein, The first component portion (12) further includes a hydraulically operable plunger (123) that can slide within the container (13), the plunger carrying a brewing head (125) adapted to inject water into the brewing chamber, wherein the brewing head (125) is provided with a gasket (127) that can slide in a sealing manner on the radially inner surface (131) of the container (13).

6. The unit according to claim 5 further includes an elastic device (124) between the plunger (123) and the hydraulic cylinder (121) fixed to the container (13), the elastic device being adapted to bias the plunger (123) toward a retracted position.

7. The unit according to claim 6 further includes a drive mechanism (18) located between the electric motor (16) and the first component portion (12), wherein, In the closed position, the drive mechanism (18) is in the dead position.

8. The unit according to claim 7, wherein, The drive mechanism (18) is configured to rotate the first component portion (12) about a horizontal axis (x) during a first segment of movement between the closed position and the open position, and to translate the first component portion (12) in a direction orthogonal to the horizontal axis during a second segment of movement between the closed position and the open position.

9. The unit according to claim 8, wherein, In the closed position of the first component part (12), the plunger (123) can slide in a direction parallel to the translational movement direction of the first component part (12).

10. The unit according to claim 9 further includes a blade member (51) positioned rotatably facing the second component portion (14).

11. The unit according to claim 10, wherein, The blade component (51) is connected to the drive mechanism (18) via an auxiliary transmission device (54).

12. The unit according to claim 11, wherein, The blade member is pivotable between a first terminal angle position referred to below as a descending position and a second terminal angle position referred to below as an ascending position, wherein in the descending position the blade member (51) is located below the second component portion (14) and in the ascending position the blade member (51) is located next to the second component portion (14).

13. The unit according to claim 12, wherein, The blade member (51) is configured to rotate from the descending position to the ascending position, or from the ascending position to the descending position, during a first segment of movement of the first component portion (12), and to stop during a second segment of translational movement of the first component portion (12).

14. The unit according to claim 10, wherein, The blade component (51) is configured to remove the powder product from the container (13) in a situation where, after the brewing step, the first component portion (12) is removed from the second component portion (14) and the powder product is transported to the end edge of the container (13).

15. The unit according to claim 10, wherein, The blade member (51) is configured to scrape or clean the inlet filter (126) of the first component part (12) and / or the outlet filter (143) of the second component part (14) in such cases that, after the brewing step, the first component part (12) is removed from the second component part (14) and the inlet filter (126) is conveyed to the end edge of the container (13).

16. The unit according to claim 1 or 2 further includes a retaining scraper (61) positioned to intercept the container (13) during movement of the first component portion (12) between the open position and the closed position.

17. A method for preparing a beverage from a powdered product (P) containing at least one ingredient using a brewing unit according to claim 6, the method comprising the steps of: a) With the first component section (12) in the closed position, cold water is supplied to the hydraulic cylinder (121) to move the plunger (123) forward and carry the powder product (P) onto the second component section (14). b1) Optionally, a first amount of hot water can be supplied to the brewing chamber through the plunger (123) and the brewing head (125) to moisten the powder product (P). b2) Optionally wait for a predetermined time interval. c) A second amount of hot water, greater than the first amount, is supplied to the brewing chamber through the plunger (123) and the brewing head (125) to prepare the beverage. d) Optionally, further cold water is supplied to the hydraulic cylinder (121) to move the plunger (123) further forward and press the used powder product (P) onto the second component part (14).

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, The electronic control unit (ECU) is configured to selectively enable or disable at least one of steps b1, b2, and d based on the digital image of the powder product.

19. The method according to claim 17 or 18, further comprising: The first component portion (12) is translated to remove it from the second component portion (14). Further cold water is supplied to the hydraulic cylinder (121) to move the plunger (123) further forward and carry the used powder product (P) out of the container (13).

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