Systems for preparing beverages

Abstract

A system for making a beverage comprises a brewing unit (2) and a capsule (4) containing a powdered food substance (5), the capsule (4) comprising: an identification element (11) placed inside a housing (6), wherein the brewing unit (2) comprises: a first perforation unit (17); an illumination device (26) configured to illuminate the identification element (11); a detection device (13) configured to detect return light radiation from the identification element (11); and an electronic control unit configured to: perform a comparison step in which real data is compared with stored reference data; and manage brewing in a different way if the real data matches or does not match the reference data than if the comparison step indicates that the real data does not match the reference data, wherein the reference data comprises one or more combinations of a division of a total intensity received in a main band into a plurality of separate secondary bands of wavelengths included in said main band.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for preparing a beverage. The system comprises a brewing unit and a capsule containing a powdered food substance. In the system, the brewing unit is configured to receive the capsule inside the brewing unit and prepare the beverage by supplying water inside the capsule so that the water interacts with the powdered food substance.

[0002] The interaction between water and the powdered food substance may involve only the extraction of organoleptic substances from the food substance (as in the case of making espresso coffee) or complete dissolution of the food substance (as in the case of making chocolate-flavored or milk-based beverages). Background Art

[0003] Currently, there are numerous prior art systems of the type described above, each characterized by the type of brewing unit and the associated operation, and most importantly, by the type of capsule used. Within each system, there may also be various versions of capsules, all corresponding to more general models, but each intended for producing a specific beverage. For example, within the same system, capsules may differ significantly depending on whether they are intended for producing beverages by extracting only the organoleptic substance from the powdered food substance or by dissolving the entire powdered food substance. These differences may be related both to the structure of the capsule and to the powdered food substance and its particle size.

[0004] At least most of the systems currently on the market have also been developed over time by optimizing the interaction between the brewing unit and each version of the capsule that can be used with it. This optimization is related, on the one hand, to the structure of the capsule (which, even for the same general model, can vary significantly in detail depending on the beverage to be prepared), and, on the other hand, to the brewing parameters used by the unit. The main brewing parameters that can be adjusted are: water temperature, water pressure, water flow rate, total amount of water, and, if necessary, pre-filling time (the time during which the water supply is interrupted before continuing brewing of the beverage and after the capsule has been filled with water, usually to allow for improved extraction of organoleptic substances).

[0005] At least for the systems most prevalent on the market, in addition to the original capsules there are so-called compatible capsules (that is to say capsules made by a different manufacturer than those that developed and sold the original system), but which are sold for use in the original brewing unit.

[0006] Compatible capsules, although having an external shape allowing them to be inserted in the original brewing unit, generally do not reflect the material and structure of the original capsule, nor do they contain a food substance having properties identical to those of the original capsule.

[0007] Therefore, the sale of compatible capsules has caused some problems.

[0008] A first problem is related to the fact that, in order to be attractive to consumers, compatible capsules usually have to be sold at a lower price than the original capsules and therefore have to be produced by limiting production costs, which in many cases is detrimental to the quality of the beverage produced.

[0009] Secondly, since, as already indicated, the brewing unit brewing parameters are usually optimized for a specific capsule model, the use of compatible capsules may result in obtaining a beverage whose quality is not optimal (and in some cases may even be poor), in the compatible capsule becoming blocked inside the brewing unit, or even in damage to the machine (for example, if the capsule causes an excessive pressure drop and forces the brewing unit pump to operate under harsher conditions than those for which it was designed).

[0010] In order to allow brewing with each original capsule version with the most correct brewing parameters while also being able to identify the presence of non-original capsules in the brewing unit or potentially dangerous for the machine, various systems have been developed over the years in which the brewing unit can distinguish between original and non-original capsules. In some cases, the brewing unit can also identify the version of the inserted original capsule.

[0011] In these cases, the brewing unit is also programmed to manage the brewing of the beverage depending on the type or model of capsule recognized (or not recognized).

[0012] For example, some brewing units are programmed to allow brewing of a beverage only if the inserted capsule is recognized as an original capsule. Other brewing units, on the contrary, allow beverages to be prepared even with non-original (or more generally, unrecognized) capsules, but in such cases they may use specific precautionary brewing parameters designed specifically to protect the unit itself from possible damage.

[0013] Furthermore, as already indicated, more complex brewing units may recognize a plurality of different versions of the original capsule and, for each of these versions, may use a specific combination of brewing parameters. However, in some applications, once they have recognized the original capsule, the brewing units set predefined brewing parameters, but also allow the user to change at least some of these parameters (for example, they may allow a change in the total amount of water, or they may allow brewing with a capsule theoretically intended for making espresso as if it were a capsule for making filter coffee or Americano).

[0014] Over time, many different solutions have been developed to allow identification of the original capsule.

[0015] According to a first technology, the capsule is equipped with an electromagnetic type identification element (such as an RFID element) and the machine includes a corresponding reader. Although this solution allows good results in terms of functionality, it is not economically advantageous due to the need to use a relatively expensive identification element on each capsule.

[0016] In contrast, the second currently used technology involves optical recognition of the capsule using a reading device placed at or upstream of the filling chamber and adapted to read a barcode, QR code, or another graphical symbol located on the outer portion of the capsule. However, this solution also has several drawbacks. In particular, the reliability of recognition can decrease over time due to the fact that the filling chamber is a dirty area where, under normal conditions, the beverage at least partially circulates, potentially leaving residues on the walls and, in particular, on the optical recognition device. Furthermore, in this dirty area, there can also be accidental leaks of the food substance present in the capsule, which can in turn form clumps on the walls. Furthermore, particularly in the case of successive brewing operations, the presence of water vapor released at the end of each brewing operation can cause the recognition system to fog up.

[0017] Furthermore, in commercial terms, the need to replicate the barcode or QR-code on the capsule has a negative impact on the appeal that the capsule's appearance may have for a purchaser.

[0018] In contrast, in a third known type of identification, use is made of an identification element which is always recognizable by simple visual inspection (as in the case of the second type), but which is located inside the capsule (as in the case of the first type).

[0019] An example of this type is described in patent application WO2017 / 195170, in which an identification element is positioned inside the capsule, below the top film, and is read by means of a reading device that pierces the top film and illuminates the identification element with light of a known frequency for a predetermined period of time. According to the solution described in said patent, recognition occurs only when the identification element, after receiving the illumination, emits light of a specific frequency (which is different from the frequency of the illumination) for a period of time (which is different from the time of the illumination). The reading device can also be independent of the perforator through which the water is supplied inside the capsule, or integrated in the perforator by means of the use of optical fibers.

[0020] Considering the interest aroused by the general idea described in patent application WO 2017 / 195170, the applicant carried out precise design and testing work which highlighted the need for technical improvements to the solution described in said patent application, in particular as regards the reliability of the identification of the original capsule.

[0021] While a certain number of false positives (that is, non-original capsules that are identified as original) can be easily tolerated, the number of false negatives (that is, original capsules that are not identified) must be as low as possible and preferably equal to zero. These tests, however, have shown that the technical solution described in WO 2017 / 195170 does not always allow this result.

[0022] The tests conducted have particularly highlighted that the reliability of recognition using the identification method described in WO2017 / 195170 depends heavily on the manufacturing accuracy of the capsule and the reading device. In particular, they have shown that, in order to guarantee highly reliable recognition, it would be necessary to manufacture the capsule with significantly lower manufacturing tolerances than currently used, which significantly increases the cost. Therefore, a solution that can be implemented with commonly used manufacturing tolerances would be desirable.

[0023] Furthermore, it has been established that, by using an identification element on a plate installed inside the capsule for dispensing water, capsule recognition may be hindered by the presence of particles of powdered food material that often manage to pass through the plate and take up position above the identification element. In fact, the presence of these particles distorts the optical response of the identification element to the excitation signal provided by the machine. Therefore, a solution that reduces the risk of false negatives caused by powder particles would be desirable.

[0024] Not least, even basing identification on a combination of frequency and duration of light radiation emitted by the identification element proves to be relatively complex, in particular for distinguishing between different versions of the original capsule. Therefore, alternative solutions would be desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0025] In this context, the technical aim forming the basis of the present invention is to provide a system for producing beverages which overcomes or limits at least some of the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0026] In particular, the technical purpose of the present invention is to provide a system for making beverages, of the type using an optical recognition element placed inside the capsule, which uses a reliable recognition criterion that is an alternative to the one described above.

[0027] The technical aim specified and the objects indicated are substantially achieved by the system for producing beverages as described in the present application.

[0028] While providing the system according to the present invention, other innovative aspects have also been devised, some of which relate primarily to the brewing unit 2 and others primarily to the capsule. The following detailed description will describe all of the innovative aspects already provided, as they can all be considered part of the same more general invention and can also all be incorporated into the same system for producing beverages. In fact, the applicant reserves the right to independently protect each innovative aspect in a separate patent application and, if necessary, through subsequent divisional applications. The applicant also reserves the right to, if necessary, even independently protect any combination of two or more of such innovative aspects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in the detailed description which refers to the accompanying drawings which illustrate several preferred, non-limiting embodiments of the system for making beverages, in which:

[0030] - Figure 1 is an axial cross-section of a first capsule made according to the first innovative aspect of the present invention;

[0031] - Figure 2 Shown in axonometric view and without both the powdered food substance and the closed top film Figure 1 of the capsule in cross section;

[0032] - Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of the water dispensing unit of the capsule;

[0033] - Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The distribution unit is based on the cross section of line IV-IV;

[0034] - Figure 5 yes Figure 4 An enlarged view of detail V;

[0035] - Figure 6 is a three-dimensionally projected axial cross-section of a second capsule made according to the first innovative aspect of the present invention;

[0036] - Figure 7 yes Figure 6 a front view of the dispensing unit of the capsule in section;

[0037] - Figure 8 is a three-dimensional projection view of a detail of a perforation unit of a brewing unit made according to the second innovative aspect of the present invention;

[0038] - Figure 9 yes Figure 8 an enlarged front view of a lower portion of the perforated unit;

[0039] - Figure 10 yes Figure 8 Axial cross section of the perforated unit;

[0040] - Figure 11 It is based on Figure 10 The cross-sectional plane is perpendicular to the cross-sectional plane Figure 8 An axial section of the lower portion of the perforated unit;

[0041] - Figure 12 is with Figure 4 The central part of the distribution unit is connected Figure 11 a front view of a cross section of a perforated cell, illustrating the physical interference of the design;

[0042] - Figure 13 Shown according to Figure 12 The cross-sectional plane is perpendicular to the cross-sectional plane of the Figure 12 identical parts in the design that are physically interfering with the design;

[0043] - Figure 14 and Figure 15 Shown Figure 13 Two possible real connections between the connected parts, these connections have interference;

[0044] - Figure 16 is an axial section of a system for preparing a beverage according to the invention, comprising a brewing unit according to the second innovative aspect of the invention and a capsule according to the first innovative aspect of the invention; the capsule and the brewing unit may also be made according to the third and fourth innovative aspects of the invention, respectively, the relevant features of which cannot be represented in the drawings;

[0045] - Figure 17 yes Figure 16 Enlarged view of detail XVII;

[0046] - Figure 18 is a graph showing the frequency behavior of a 420FDL50 dichroic filter from the British company "Knight Optical Ltd";

[0047] - Figure 19 is a graph showing the frequency behavior of a 430FWP7575 filter from "Knight Optical Ltd."; and

[0048] - Figure 20is a graph showing the relative emission intensity of a LDUV2043 LED from the company "Ligitek Electronics GmbH" powered with a current of 20 mA. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] The present invention and the more general invention of which the present invention is a part relate to a system 1 for producing a beverage comprising, on the one hand, a brewing unit 2 defining an infusion chamber 3 and, on the other hand, a capsule 4 containing a powdered food substance 5 configured to be insertable in the infusion chamber 3.

[0050] Generally speaking, the capsule 4 comprises an outer shell 6 containing a powdered food substance 5 in its interior.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, housing 6 comprises a cup-shaped body 7 enclosed by a lid 8. Advantageously, cup-shaped body 7 is manufactured by molding, injection molding, or thermoforming, while lid 8 is constructed from a film. Cup-shaped body 7 can be single-layered or multi-layered, and each layer can be made of a variety of materials, such as aluminum, plastic, cellulose, or PLA. Lid 8 can also be made of the same material.

[0052] In some embodiments, the entire housing 6 can be at least primarily made of the same material (eg, a polypropylene-based blend).

[0053] In some embodiments, the entire capsule 4 can be made of recyclable materials (eg, one or more polypropylene-based blends) or compostable materials (eg, one or more PLA-based blends).

[0054] An inlet wall 9 and an outlet wall 10 are identifiable in the housing 6. The inlet wall 9 is the wall through which, in use, water is fed into the interior of the capsule 4, while the outlet wall 10 is the wall through which the beverage exits; both are therefore definable, taking into account the conditions in which the capsule 4 is used in the brewing unit 2. In some embodiments (such as those illustrated in the accompanying drawings), the inlet wall 9 is constituted by the lid 8 of the containment body, while the outlet wall 10 is constituted by the bottom wall of the cup-shaped body 7.

[0055] In some embodiments, the housing 6 is sealed and oxygen-impermeable, whereas in other embodiments it may be oxygen-permeable, for example due to the presence of one or more holes; in this latter case, the housing 6 will preferably be sold in a sealed, oxygen-impermeable package.

[0056] The capsule 4 further comprises an identification element 11 placed inside the housing 6 , contained therein and separated relative to the housing 6 .

[0057] The identification element 11 is advantageously interposed between the housing and the powdered food substance 5 , preferably between the feed wall 9 and the powdered food substance 5 .

[0058] The identification element 11 comprises a reading surface 12 arranged to face a detection device 13 which is part of the brewing unit 2 .

[0059] In some embodiments, the capsule 4 further comprises a dispensing unit 14, which is also interposed between the feed wall 9 and the powdered food substance 5. The dispensing unit 14 has the function of dispensing the incoming water in the powdered food substance 5 in a manner deemed most suitable for making a specific beverage.

[0060] For example, in order to prepare a beverage involving only the extraction of organoleptic substances from the powdered food substance 5, the dispensing unit 14 is preferably configured as a uniformly perforated filter, occupying the entire cross-section of the housing 6 and leaving a free space between itself and the feed wall 9 to allow a uniform distribution of the water over the entire perforated surface. Figure 3 and Figure 4 An example of this type of allocation unit 14 is illustrated in .

[0061] In contrast, in order to prepare a beverage involving the dissolution of the powdered food substance 5, the dispensing unit 14 is preferably provided with one or several through holes 15 positioned near the side wall of the housing 6 (at Figure 7 In this case as well, the distribution unit 14 may be configured to leave a free space between itself and the feed wall, the sole purpose of which in this case is to allow water to reach the one or more through-holes 15.

[0062] exist Figure 3 and Figure 7 In the case of the embodiment illustrated in FIG, a free space is obtained between the dispensing unit 14 and the cover 8 due to the presence of the protrusion on the dispensing unit 14 itself.

[0063] In some embodiments, the identification element 11 is associated with a dispensing unit 14 .

[0064] In some embodiments, the identification element 11 is integrated in the dispensing unit 14, or constitutes a part thereof, or consists of a part thereof.

[0065] In some embodiments, such as those illustrated in the accompanying drawings, the identification element 11 is constituted by a dispensing unit 14 .

[0066] In some embodiments, the dispensing unit 14 has a recessed portion 16 .

[0067] In some embodiments, the recess 16 is configured to receive the first perforated unit 17 of the brewing unit 2 when the capsule 4 is inserted in the infusion chamber 3. Advantageously, the recess 16 is positioned at the center of the dispensing unit 14.

[0068] Depending on the embodiments, the capsule 4 may also comprise other elements, such as a filter 18 interposed between the powdered food substance 5 and the discharge wall 10 , or may have further features without thereby departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0069] Similar to the brewing unit of the prior art, even the brewing unit according to the present invention comprises a first part 19 and a second part 20 which are switchable between an original configuration and a brewing configuration.

[0070] When they are in their original configuration, the first portion 19 and the second portion 20 are at a distance from each other and allow a new capsule 4 to be loaded between them or a used capsule 4 to be removed. When they are in the brewing configuration, the first portion 19 and the second portion 20 are coupled and delimit between them the pouring chamber 3 in which the capsule 4 is intended to be enclosed (in fact, the capsule 4 is configured to be inserted into the pouring chamber 3).

[0071] The arrangement of the first portion 19 and the second portion 20 relative to each other, their movement relative to each other, as well as the ways of feeding the capsule 4 to the priming chamber 3 and those of removing the used capsule 4 from the priming chamber 3 may vary according to requirements.

[0072] For example, the brewing unit 2 may be a vertical unit, a horizontal unit, an angled unit, and may be configured to allow feeding and ejecting the capsule 4 by simple gravity or in another manner.

[0073] In some embodiments, either the first portion 19 or the second portion 20 defines a housing into which the capsule 4 can be inserted, while the other constitutes a lid for closing the housing. A watertight seal between the first portion 19 and the second portion 20 can be achieved at a flange of the capsule 4 that can be clamped therebetween.

[0074] exist Figure 16 In the case of the embodiment illustrated in FIG, the first part 19 consists of a horizontally extractable drawer in which the housing for the capsule 4 is made, while the second part 20 is operable in the original configuration (not illustrated) and in the brewing configuration ( Figure 16 ) are vertically movable.

[0075] In a known manner, the brewing unit 2 comprises a first perforating unit 17 configured to pierce the feed wall 9 of the capsule 4 when the capsule 4 is inserted into the infusion chamber 3. Figure 16 In the embodiment of the present invention, the first perforated unit 17 is fixed to the second part 20 and is fixed relative to it. In other embodiments, it can be fixed to the second part 20 and / or movable relative to the part to which it is fixed.

[0076] The first perforation unit 17 is advantageously configured to allow optical access of the brewing unit 2 to the identification element 11 .

[0077] Depending on the embodiments, the first perforating unit 17 may create one or more openings through the feed wall 9 .

[0078] The brewing unit 2 comprises supply means for supplying hot water inside a capsule 4 inserted in the infusion chamber 3 and means for causing a beverage to flow out of the capsule 4 , which beverage has been formed after the interaction of the hot water with the powdered food substance 5 .

[0079] In a known manner, the hot water supply means may comprise a water tank, a pump, a boiler (not shown) and a supply pipe 21 extending from the tank through the pump and the boiler to the filling chamber 3. Depending on the embodiments, the introduction of hot water into the interior of the capsule 4 may be carried out through an opening made by the first perforating unit 17, through an opening made by a different perforating unit, or directly through the feed wall 9 (if the latter is itself perforated or permeable).

[0080] In some embodiments, the hot water supply means, in particular the supply pipe 21, comprises a suction pipe 22, which is made in the first perforation unit 17 and which opens into the filling chamber 3. In use, when the capsule 4 is inserted into the filling chamber 3 and the first perforation unit 17 has penetrated the feed wall 9, the suction pipe 22 opens into the capsule 4 between the feed wall 9 and the identification element 11.

[0081] In some embodiments, the suction tube 22 has an outlet 23 that is radial relative to the central axis of the first perforated unit 17 .

[0082] The means for causing the outflow of the beverage (which is formed in the capsule 4 after the interaction of the hot water and the powdered food substance 5) may comprise a second perforating element 24 for piercing the discharge wall 10, one or more channels 25 for collecting and directing the beverage towards a serving area (below which a cup may be positioned), and / or other elements of known type. The second perforating element 24 may be fixed or movable, and may be active (i.e., actively piercing the discharge wall 10) or passive (i.e., constituting a contact element against which the discharge wall 10 tears after an increase in pressure inside the capsule 4). If the discharge wall 10 is already perforated or water-permeable, the second perforating element 24 is obviously not necessary.

[0083] The illumination device 26 is associated with the first perforation unit 17 and is configured to illuminate the identification element 11 with incident optical radiation, in use. Also associated with the first perforation unit 17 is a detection device 13, which is configured to detect return optical radiation emitted and / or reflected by the identification element 11 after illumination with the incident optical radiation. In some embodiments, the detection device 13 has an acquisition surface 27 for acquiring the return optical radiation, which is, in use, located near the identification element 11, while the rest of the illumination device 26 is located remotely.

[0084] Preferably, both the lighting device 26 and the detection device 13 are configured to optically interact with the identification element 11 through the at least one opening created in the feed wall 9 by the first perforating unit 17 .

[0085] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the incident optical radiation has a known wavelength band.

[0086] In some applications it may be a band in the ultraviolet range, in other applications a band in the visible range, and in other applications a band straddling the visible and ultraviolet ranges.

[0087] In some embodiments, the illumination device 26 comprises an optical radiation transmitting element 28 for sending incident optical radiation towards the reading surface 12 of the identification element 11 .

[0088] In some embodiments, the detection device 13 comprises an optical radiation transmitting element 28 configured to collect the returning optical radiation.

[0089] Advantageously, there may be a single optical radiation transmitting element 28 , and it may be part of both the illumination means 26 and the detection means 13 .

[0090] The transport element 28 extends between a first end 29 associated with the first perforating unit 17 and, in use, directed towards the identification element 11, and a second end 30 placed outside the perfusion chamber 3. The first end 29 constitutes the incident light emission surface for the illumination device 26, while it constitutes the return light radiation acquisition surface 27 for the detection device 13.

[0091] When the capsule 4 comprises a dispensing unit 14 forming a recess 16 , the recess 16 may be configured to accommodate the first end 29 of the optical radiation transmitting element 28 .

[0092] In some embodiments, the optical radiation transmitting element 28 is comprised of an optical fiber.

[0093] In some embodiments (such as Figure 17In the embodiment illustrated in FIG, the lighting device 26 comprises, in addition to the transmission element 28, an LED 31 that is offset relative to the transmission element 28, and a mirror 32 that is positioned in such a way as to reflect at least part of the light radiation it receives from the LED 31 in the transmission element 28. For example, the optical axis of the LED 31 may be at an angle of 90° relative to the optical axis of the second end 30 of the transmission element 28, and the mirror 32 may be flat and at an angle of 45° relative to the two optical axes, which intersect on the surface of the mirror 32.

[0094] In some embodiments (such as those according to the second innovative aspect described below), the mirror 32 is a dichroic filter, such as the dichroic filter sold by the British company "Knight Optics Ltd" under the code 420FDL50. The dichroic filter is configured to cause reflection of only light radiation whose wavelength is mainly comprised in the ultraviolet band (preferably in the band up to 405 nanometers), and on the contrary to be transparent to at least most light radiation in the visible band (in particular preferably to light radiation with a wavelength higher than 405 nanometers). In the case of the dichroic filter from "Knight Optics Ltd" indicated above, the result is achieved using a filter angled at 45° with respect to the light radiation arriving from the LED 31. The frequency behavior of the above-mentioned "Knight Optics Ltd" dichroic filter at the target frequency is Figure 18 , wherein the x-axis shows the wavelength value in nanometers and the y-axis shows the percentage of electromagnetic radiation reflected or transmitted. Curve 40 shows the radiation transmitted at an angle of incidence equal to 0°, curve 41 shows the radiation reflected at an angle of incidence equal to 0°, curve 42 shows the radiation transmitted at an angle of incidence equal to 45°, and curve 43 shows the radiation reflected at an angle of incidence equal to 45°.

[0095] In some embodiments, the wavelength band of the incident optical radiation is between 360 and 405 nanometers. In some embodiments, for this purpose, the LED 31 is configured to emit optical radiation having wavelengths in this wavelength band. In other embodiments, on the contrary, the use of the dichroic mirror indicated above allows the use of an LED 31 that, in addition to the desired frequencies in the ultraviolet band, also emits unwanted optical radiation in the visible range (as in the case described below), because such visible radiation is not reflected toward the transmission element 28 and therefore does not reach the identification element 11.

[0096] In some embodiments, the detection device 13 comprises an electronic sensor 33 optically associated with the second end 30 of the transmission element 28 to receive the optical radiation emitted by the second end 30 .

[0097] In some embodiments where the detection device 13 is configured to detect radiation in the visible range, the dichroic mirror advantageously also intercepts returning optical radiation, allowing only radiation in the visible band to pass, reflecting ultraviolet radiation elsewhere.

[0098] The brewing unit 2 also comprises an electronic control unit (not shown) which can be connected to the various operating parts of the unit itself, such as the boiler, the pump, any motors for moving the first part 19 and the second part 20, the lighting device 26, the detection device 13, etc., and which is programmed to control their operation.

[0099] In particular, the electronic control unit is connected to the detection device 13 in order to receive therefrom in electronic format real data relating to the characteristics of the returned optical radiation. Advantageously, the real data are quantitative physical measurements related to the returned optical radiation, such as data relating to intensity, data relating to frequency, data relating to duration, etc.

[0100] In some embodiments, the real data are prepared by the detection device 13 and sent to the electronic control unit so that it can use these data (the method of which is described below). In other cases, the real data are sent to the electronic control unit together with other data, are incorporated into other data, or must be derived from other data in any case, the other data being obtained by the detection device 13. In these cases, the electronic control unit will be programmed to process the received data and obtain the target real data.

[0101] The electronic control unit is also programmed to perform a comparison step on the basis of the received real data and to perform a management step on the basis of the result of the comparison step.

[0102] During the management step, the electronic control unit compares the real data received from the detection device 13 with the stored reference data and determines whether the real data matches the reference data. The rules on which the existence of a match is based can be formulated each time based on the type of data item being considered. For example, if the reference data are exact values, a match can exist when the real data deviates from the reference data by less than a predetermined error margin (which can be expressed both in absolute terms and as a percentage or relative value); otherwise, if the reference data have been expressed in terms of ranges, a match will exist when the real data falls within the range.

[0103] During the management step, the electronic control unit manages the operation of the brewing unit 2; however, according to the present invention, the electronic control unit is programmed to manage the operation of the brewing unit 2 differently if the comparing step indicates that the real data matches the reference data than if the comparing step indicates that the real data does not match the reference data.

[0104] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to allow brewing of the beverage only if the comparing step indicates that the actual data matches the reference data.

[0105] In some embodiments where the electronic control unit is connected to the hot water supply means to control their operation, the electronic control unit is programmed to control the operation of the hot water supply means differently if the comparing step indicates that the actual data matches the reference data than if the comparing step indicates that the actual data does not match the reference data.

[0106] In some embodiments, if the comparing step indicates that the actual data does not match the reference data, the electronic control unit may be programmed to cause the hot water supply means to operate by adopting safety supply parameters compared to those adopted if a match existed.

[0107] The different programs described above are intended to distinguish between original and non-original capsules and allow brewing either only with original capsules or also with non-original capsules, but with different brewing parameters (eg safety parameters).

[0108] In some embodiments, the stored reference data includes a plurality of separate alternatives, and the electronic control unit is programmed to control the operation of the hot water supply means in different ways, depending on which of the various possible reference data alternatives the actual data matches. In this case, the provision of different reference data alternatives is intended to allow the electronic control unit to distinguish not only between original and non-original capsules, but also to recognize different types of original capsules and to be able to set different brewing parameters for each type.

[0109] In the context described above, different innovative aspects have been developed which form the core of the present invention.

[0110] A first innovative aspect of the invention, which can be implemented independently of the other aspects, relates to the shape of the reading surface 12 (that is, the shape of the portion of the surface of the identification element 11) that faces the return radiation acquisition surface 27 of the detection device 13 when the capsule 4 is closed in the filling chamber 3. According to this first innovative aspect, the reading surface 12 forms a convex surface that is directed toward the detection device 13 or, considering only the capsule 4, toward the side opposite to that on which the powdered food substance 5 is located (generally toward the feed wall 9). In a preferred embodiment, the reading surface 12 has a shape similar to that of a spherical cap, preferably with a radius of curvature between 2 and 5 mm.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, at least the reading surface 12 is made in a portion of the identification element 11 that, viewed as a whole, has stable dimensions under the conditions of use, that is, such that it maintains both its overall shape and, most importantly, the convexity described above. In some embodiments, as already indicated, this is achieved by associating the identification element 11 with a dispensing unit 14, or by using the dispensing unit 14 directly as the identification element 11. This does not alter the fact that the identification element 11, as a whole, may be subject to small elastic deformations, for example of the type described below.

[0112] Advantageously, if the dispensing unit 14 comprises a recess 16 for receiving the first perforating unit 17, the reading surface 12 is positioned on the bottom of the recess 16, such as for example at Figure 5 , where the reading surface 12 is convex as a whole, albeit with a horizontal central portion and side portions having the shape of a spherical area.

[0113] This first innovative design aspect offers at least two significant benefits. First, making the surface convex as a whole significantly reduces the risk of false negatives due to the presence of particles of powder (of the food substance) on the reading surface 12 itself. Second, when the dispensing unit 14 and the identification element 11 are manufactured as a single body by injection molding, the convex shape of the reading surface 12 reduces the risk of it being deformed in the mold due to material shrinkage, which, in contrast, has been shown to occur more easily if the reading surface is completely flat. Avoiding these deformations can be important, as a deformed reading surface 12 could prevent correct recognition by the detection device 13.

[0114] The first innovative aspect described above can be realized both when producing the system 1 (brewing unit 2 and capsule 4 ) and when producing only capsules for another already developed system.

[0115] According to a second innovative aspect, which can also be implemented independently of the other three innovative aspects, the present invention provides for: first, forming identification element 11 using a material capable of emitting / reflecting optical radiation having predetermined characteristics when illuminated by incident optical radiation having a predetermined wavelength band. In particular, a preferred embodiment provides for the use of a fluorescent material (that is, a material capable of emitting optical radiation in the visible range when illuminated by optical radiation in the ultraviolet range) for forming identification element 11. A more general implementation of this second innovative aspect provides for the use of a measurement of the intensity distribution of the returned optical radiation across multiple wavelength bands as an identification criterion. In particular, it provides for the identification of a primary wavelength band and a plurality of mutually separated secondary wavelength bands within this primary wavelength band. In a preferred embodiment, the secondary wavelength bands collectively define the entire primary wavelength band. Using the total intensity of the returned optical radiation within the primary wavelength band as a reference, an assessment is then made of how much of this total intensity is associated with the wavelength frequencies included in each secondary wavelength band. Thus, the intensity associated with each individual secondary wavelength band can vary between 0% and 100% of the total intensity within the primary wavelength band.

[0116] Again according to the second innovative aspect, the detection device 13 and / or the electronic control unit are thus configured to use as real data a division (sometimes also referred to as a level) of the total intensity of the return optical radiation detected by the detection device 13 in the primary band. Advantageously, this division is evaluated as the ratio of the intensity in each secondary band to the total intensity in the primary band, that is, as the share of the total intensity associated with the primary band, the share being associated with each secondary band. If the primary band corresponds to the sum of the secondary bands, the total intensity in the primary band is equal to the sum of the intensities in the three secondary bands.

[0117] Similarly, the reference data includes one or more combinations of divisions of the total intensity into each secondary band. Each of these one or more combinations of divisions of the total intensity includes, for each secondary band, a range of permissible values for the fraction of the intensity of the returned optical radiation received in that secondary band relative to the total intensity received in the primary band. For example, in the preferred embodiment described below, where there are three secondary bands, the reference data includes one or more of the following combinations:

[0118] Combination A: the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 20-45%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 30-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-40%;

[0119] Combination B: the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 3-8%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 60-72%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-32%;

[0120] - Combination C: the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 0-3%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 25-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 60-75%.

[0121] According to a second innovative aspect of the invention, the electronic control unit is programmed to perform a comparison step and indicate a match between the real data and the reference data when the real data associated with each secondary band each falls within a corresponding range of the same intensity combination (A, B or C in the example) included in the reference data.

[0122] In the case of a preferred embodiment of the second innovative aspect of the invention in which fluorescent materials are used, the illumination device 26 is configured to illuminate the reading surface 12 with incident light radiation having a wavelength band at least partially included in the ultraviolet range, preferably between 360 and 405 nanometers. As seen above, this result can be advantageously achieved at low cost using LEDs 31 associated with appropriately configured dichroic mirrors. In particular, in some embodiments, the LEDs used are Figure 20 The LDUV2043 LED in question has an 80-nanometer-wide emission band centered at 400 nanometers. Therefore, a dichroic filter filters the upper wavelength (405-440 nanometers).

[0123] In the preferred embodiment, the three sub-bands are as follows:

[0124] - a first secondary band having a wavelength between 600 nm and 700 nm;

[0125] - a second secondary band having a wavelength between 500 nm and 600 nm; and

[0126] - a third secondary band having a wavelength between 400 nm and 500 nm;

[0127] And the main band corresponds to these three bands linked together (the values from 400 nm to 700 nm - 500 nm and 600 nm are preferably each included in only one minor band).

[0128] In some preferred embodiments, the sensor used is the BH1749NUC sensor from ROHM.

[0129] The reference data stored in the electronic control unit for the comparison step consist of at least one combination of a division of the intensity into three sub-bands, wherein for each sub-band there is preferably a permissible range for the respective contribution to the total intensity.

[0130] More specifically, regarding the division of the intensity into three sub-bands, the applicant's extensive experiments have allowed the identification of several preferred combinations that allow the optimization of the recognition operation in the preferred embodiment. For the three sub-bands defined above, the three preferred combinations are as follows (wherein, as already indicated, each percentage value refers to the ratio of the intensity in this sub-band to the sum of the intensities in the three sub-bands):

[0131] Combination A: the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 20-45%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 30-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-40%;

[0132] - Combination B: the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 3-8%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 60-72%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-32%;

[0133] - Combination C: the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 0-3%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 25-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 60-75%.

[0134] According to the second innovative aspect of the invention, as already indicated, the electronic control unit is programmed to: perform a comparison step and indicate a match between the real data and the reference data when the real data associated with each secondary band each falls within the corresponding range provided for the same intensity combination (A, B or C) in the reference data.

[0135] For example, if the detected real data shows that the intensity of the optical radiation detected in the main band as a whole is divided as follows: 38% in the first sub-band, 33% in the second sub-band, and 29% in the third sub-band, then it falls within combination A, and the result of the comparison step will be that a match exists. On the other hand, if the detected real data shows that the intensity of the optical radiation detected in the main band as a whole is divided as follows: 38% in the first sub-band, 41% in the second sub-band, and 21% in the third sub-band, the division does not fall within any combination in the combination defining the reference data (although for two of the three sub-bands, they match combination A), and therefore, the result of the comparison step will be that no match exists.

[0136] In some embodiments, the reference data comprises a single combination of intensities, particularly one of Combination A, Combination B or Combination C in preferred embodiments.

[0137] In contrast, in other embodiments, the reference data comprises two or more combinations of intensities. In this case, the electronic control unit is advantageously programmed to control the operation of the hot water supply device in different ways depending on which combination of stored reference data matches the real data.

[0138] In some embodiments according to the second innovative aspect, the detection device 13 advantageously comprises one or more filters coupled to the electronic sensor 33 to filter optical radiation having frequencies that do not match those of the main band, thereby reducing any occurrence of electromagnetic "noise". Figure 17 In the embodiment shown in FIG, the first filter is constituted by a dichroic filter configured to allow only radiation in the visible spectrum to pass. However, downstream of the dichroic mirror there is also a Wratten filter 34 (that is, a filter that allows visible radiation to pass while filtering ultraviolet radiation). In particular, the filter 430FWP7575 manufactured by the already mentioned "Knight Optics Ltd." can be used. Figure 19 The filter mentioned, Figure 19 The percentage of intensity transmitted by the filter as a function of wavelength (in nanometers) is shown.

[0139] With regard to the capsule 4 , according to a second innovative aspect, the identification element 11 is made of a material which, when illuminated by incident optical radiation having a wavelength between 360 and 405 nanometers, emits and / or reflects back optical radiation having a division of the intensity of the optical radiation into each of the three aforementioned sub-bands, the division being selected from the group consisting of combination A, combination B and combination C. This result can be obtained, for example, by adding a suitable fluorescent pigment to the mixture used to make the identification element 11 .

[0140] Thus, the second innovative aspect described above can be implemented both in the complete system 1 (brewing unit 2 and capsule 4) and also for making only extraction units or capsules intended for use with other already developed systems 1 (that is, the scope of the second innovative aspect covers both brewing units 2 capable of using capsules in accordance with what is described above and capsules in which the identification element 11 has the behavior indicated above).

[0141] Turning to the third independent innovative aspect of the present invention, this concerns the specific interaction between the first perforating unit 17 and the identification element 11 .

[0142] According to a third innovative aspect, the return optical radiation acquisition surface 27 is first fixed to the first perforation unit 17 in such a way as to adopt a predetermined position in the perfusion chamber 3 (apart from design tolerances).

[0143] Advantageously, the acquisition surface 27 is constituted by a first end 29 of the optical radiation transmission element 28. In some embodiments, the optical radiation transmission element 28 partially extends in a manner either parallel to or coaxial with the suction tube 22.

[0144] The first perforating unit 17 has a distal portion 35 which is configured to pierce the feed wall 9 of the capsule 4 and which, in the brewing configuration, protrudes inside the infusion chamber 3 beyond the light radiation acquisition surface 27 ( Figure 9 and Figure 10 ).

[0145] Advantageously, the distal portion 35 is located off-centre on only one side thereof with respect to the centre axis of the access surface 27. Preferably located on the opposite side of the access surface 27 is the outlet 23 of the suction tube 22.

[0146] In the illustrated embodiment ( Figure 8 and Figure 9 ), the distal portion 35 has two flat side surfaces 36 that converge in a cutting edge 37 that extends radially and proceeds from the inside to the outside, angled in such a way that the outer portion 38 protrudes more into the perfusion chamber 3 than the inner portion 39.

[0147] In view of the dimensions of the first perforating unit 17 and of the perfusion chamber 3 , the capsule 4 is configured and dimensioned in such a way that the first perforating unit 17 comes into contact with the identification element 11 when the capsule 4 is inserted in the perfusion chamber 3 according to the method described below.

[0148] Advantageously, there are two alternative possibilities.

[0149] According to a first possibility, when the capsule 4 is contained in the perfusion chamber 3 , the distal portion 35 of the first perforating unit 17 rests on the identification element 11 and the optical radiation acquisition surface 27 is at a predetermined distance from the identification element 11 (solution not shown).

[0150] On the contrary, according to a second possibility, when the capsule 4 is contained in the perfusion chamber 3, the distal portion 35 of the first perforating unit 17 is partially inserted in the identification element 11 (that is, penetrates it, but only partially and does not make a hole completely through it), and the optical radiation acquisition surface 27 is either at a distance from the identification element 11 ( Figure 14 ), or at best resting on the identification element 11 itself ( Figure 15 ).

[0151] In all these cases, the distance of the optical radiation acquisition surface 27 from the identification element 11 never exceeds a predetermined distance (determined at the design stage, apart from manufacturing tolerances).

[0152] This result can be achieved by, on the one hand, making the identification element 11 in such a way that it is movable inwardly in the perfusion chamber 3 under the thrust of the distal portion 35 of the first perforating unit 17 and, on the other hand, appropriately determining the dimensions of the first perforating unit 17 and / or the capsule 4.

[0153] In the preferred embodiment in which the identification element 11 is associated with or consists of the dispensing unit 14, the mobility of the identification element 11 is obtained solely due to the elastic deformability of the dispensing unit 14 itself, which, although having stable dimensions, is able to bend slightly in its central region where the recess 16 is located. It should be noted that the required travel may generally be of the order of a few tenths of a millimeter.

[0154] Instead, the sizing is performed by providing some physical interference between the first perforating unit 17 and the dispensing element at the design stage when the capsule 4 is inserted in the infusion chamber 3 . Figure 12 and Figure 13 An example of design dimensioning with interference is illustrated in FIG. 5 , which ensures contact between the first perforating unit 17 and the identification element 11 even taking into account the most unfavorable combination with regard to manufacturing tolerances.

[0155] If the reading surface 12 is formed convexly pointing towards the detection means 13, according to the content provided by the first inventive aspect, the distal portion 35 of the first punching unit 17 comes into contact against the convex reading surface 12 and acts as Figure 14 and 15 As shown in the figure.

[0156] The third innovative aspect described above can be realized both when producing the complete system 1 (brewing unit 2 and capsule 4 ), and when producing only the brewing unit 2 or only the capsule.

[0157] Turning to the last innovative aspect, which is also applicable independently of the application of one or more of the other aspects, it is first provided that the hot water supply means are configured to supply hot water inside the capsule 4 at the reading surface 12 of the identification element 11 (towards which the lighting device 26 and the detection device 13 are directed when the capsule 4 is inserted in the perfusion chamber 3).

[0158] In particular, the hot water supply means are configured to supply hot water inside the capsule 4 at the reading surface 12 of the identification element 11 in such a way that the water it supplies flows over the reading surface 12 and can thus remove any powder particles present thereon.

[0159] Also according to a fourth innovative aspect of the invention, the electronic control unit is programmed to carry out a cleaning step for cleaning the identification element 11 by activating hot water supply means for cleaning the reading surface 12 when the first execution of the comparison step has shown that the real data detected by the detection device 13 do not match the reference data (that is, when no match exists).

[0160] The basic principle of the cleaning step for cleaning the identification element 11 is to supply a limited amount of water (that is, not enough to cause the beverage to be brewed, or at least not completely brewed), but which is sufficient to displace any powder particles that may be lodged on the reading surface 12. To achieve this result, it may also be useful to control the pressure and / or flow rate of the supplied water.

[0161] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to perform the cleaning step by activating the hot water supply for a time between 1 and 2 seconds.

[0162] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to perform the washing step by activating the hot water supply means so as to supply an amount of water between 5 and 15 milliliters.

[0163] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to perform the cleaning step by activating a hot water supply having a flow rate between 23 and 29 l / h.

[0164] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to perform the cleaning step by activating the hot water supply means to supply water at a pressure of 1.5 to 12 bar.

[0165] Again in accordance with the fourth innovative aspect, in some embodiments, after the cleaning step has been performed, the electronic control unit is programmed to obtain new real data relating to the cleaned reading surface 12 from the detection device 13 and to perform the comparison step a second time using this new real data. As can be deduced, if the cleaning step has effectively cleaned the reading surface 12, the new real data will be different from the real data used for the first execution of the comparison step, whereas if the reading surface 12 is already clean, or if the cleaning step did not allow any dirt to be removed, the new real data will be substantially the same as the previous real data.

[0166] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to perform the cleaning step multiple times, alternating between the cleaning step and the waiting step.

[0167] In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to continuously repeat the comparison step during the execution of one or more cleaning steps when the first execution of the comparison step has indicated that the real data does not match the reference data. In some embodiments, the electronic control unit is programmed to interrupt the one or more cleaning steps and go to the management step when the comparison step indicates that the real data matches the reference data.

[0168] In particular, the electronic control unit is programmed to continuously acquire new real data relating to the reading surface 12 from the detection means 13 even during the cleaning step and, if necessary, at a predetermined time after the cleaning step, and to perform the comparison step by continuously checking the new real data gradually acquired.

[0169] When the last comparison step provided has also ended (performed by checking the data only once after the cleaning step, or continuously during the cleaning step and, if necessary, even after the cleaning step), the electronic control unit is programmed to also perform the management step again, this time based on the result obtained with the second execution of the comparison step, that is, based on whether this comparison step found a match between the real data and the reference data.

[0170] In some embodiments, when even one or more further executions of the comparison step have shown that the real data detected by the detection means 13 do not match the reference data, the electronic unit is programmed to consider the lack of match to be definitive and to execute the management step and act accordingly as to activating or deactivating the hot water supply means.

[0171] In contrast, in other embodiments, when the second execution of the comparison step has shown that the real data detected by the detection device 13 does not match the reference data, the electronic control unit is programmed to: based on the result obtained with the last execution of the comparison step, execute the cleaning step and the comparison step again in succession.

[0172] In some embodiments, this may be repeated multiple times before continuing with the execution of the managing step when the most recent previous execution of the comparing step has indicated that the actual data does not match the reference data.

[0173] During the execution of the cleaning step after the first execution, it can even be provided that different execution parameters are adopted, in particular parameters can be determined for an improved cleaning of the reading surface 12 compared to the last execution (for example: supplying a larger amount of water, supplying it at a higher flow rate / pressure or supplying it for a longer time compared to the execution of the cleaning step immediately preceding it).

[0174] For example, in some embodiments, there is provided a maximum of three executions of the cleaning step, each duration between 1 and 2 seconds (preferably equal to 1.5 seconds), alternated with the waiting step, and these waiting steps advantageously have the same duration. In this case, the water for cleaning extracted by the pump may be approximately 10-13 milliliters when executing for the first time, then gradually increased to a total of approximately 26-32 milliliters when executing for the third time. Between the beginning of executing for the first time and the end of executing for the third time, the supply pressure can be gradually increased to approximately 12 bars from approximately 1.5 bars. In these embodiments, from the first execution of the cleaning step until the last execution of the cleaning step ends, the comparison step is performed continuously. In addition, once the comparison step shows that the real data detected by the detection device 13 mates with the reference data, the cleaning cycle will be interrupted immediately.

[0175] The fourth innovative aspect described above can be applied both when producing the entire system 1 (brewing unit 2 and capsule 4 ) and when producing only the brewing unit 2 .

[0176] As regards the innovative aspects, the operation of the various embodiments of the system 1 according to the invention is easily deducible from the preceding description, whereas this operation is similar to that of prior art systems with regard to the insertion and removal of the capsule 4 and the formation of the beverage.

[0177] The present invention brings important advantages.Further advantages are provided by other innovative aspects which are part of the present invention.

[0178] Thanks to the invention, it has been possible to provide a system for making beverages of the type using optical recognition elements placed inside the capsule based on extremely reliable recognition criteria, which is an alternative to those of the prior art.

[0179] Further advantages are provided by other innovative aspects that are part of the present invention.

[0180] Thanks to the first innovative aspect, it is possible to provide a system for preparing beverages, of the type using an optical recognition element placed inside a capsule, which is less subject to the risk of false negatives, both due to the presence of particles of powder on the reading surface and due to molding deformations of the reading surface in the case of injection-molded recognition elements.

[0181] Thanks to the third innovative aspect, it has been possible to provide a system for preparing beverages, of the type using an optical recognition element placed inside the capsule, which system guarantees a high level of recognition reliability despite normal manufacturing tolerances used when making the brewing unit and the capsule.

[0182] Thanks to the fourth innovative aspect, it has been possible to provide a system for preparing beverages, of the type using an optical recognition element placed inside a capsule, in which system the risk of false negatives caused by the presence of particles of powder on the reading surface is minimized.

[0183] Finally, it should be noted that the present invention is relatively easy to produce and even the costs associated with implementing the invention are not very high.

[0184] The invention described above can be modified and adapted in several ways without thereby departing from the scope of the inventive concept.

[0185] All the details may be replaced by other technically equivalent elements, and the materials used as well as the shapes and dimensions of the various components may vary according to requirements.

Claims

1. A system for making a beverage, the system comprising: A brewing unit (2) and a capsule (4) containing a powdered food substance (5), the capsule (4) comprising: a housing (6) in which an inlet wall (9) and an outlet wall (10) are identifiable; and an identification element (11) placed inside the housing (6), wherein the brewing unit (2) comprises a first part (19) and a second part (20), the first part (19) and the second part (20) being switchable between an initial configuration, in which they are at a distance from each other, and a brewing configuration, in which they are coupled and delimit a pouring chamber (3) between them, wherein the capsule (4) is configured to be inserted into the pouring chamber (3), wherein the brewing unit (2) comprises: a first perforating unit (17) configured to pierce the feed wall (9) of the capsule (4) inserted in the pouring chamber (3); supply means for supplying hot water inside the capsule (4) inserted in the pouring chamber (3) through the feed wall (9); and means for causing a beverage to flow out of the capsule (4) inserted in the pouring chamber (3) through the discharge wall (10), the beverage having been formed after the interaction of the hot water with the powdered food substance (5); an illumination device (26) associated with the first perforation unit (17) and configured to illuminate the identification element (11) with incident optical radiation having a known wavelength band, and a detection device (13) associated with the first perforation unit (17) and configured to detect return optical radiation emitted and / or reflected by the identification element (11) after illumination with the incident optical radiation; an electronic control unit connected to the detection device (13) to receive therefrom real data relating to the characteristics of the returned optical radiation, the electronic control unit being programmed to perform: a comparison step in which the real data are compared with stored reference data; and a management step in which it manages the operation of the brewing unit (2) in a different way if the comparison step indicates that the real data match the reference data than if the comparison step indicates that the real data do not match the reference data; in, With reference to a plurality of separate secondary bands of wavelengths included in a primary band of wavelengths, the real data comprises a division of the total intensity of the return optical radiation detected by the detection means (13) in the primary band into each of the secondary bands; The reference data includes one or more combinations of divisions of the total intensity into each sub-band; each of the one or more combinations of divisions of the total intensity comprises, for each secondary band, a range of values for a permissible contribution of the intensity of the return optical radiation received in the secondary band relative to the total intensity received in the primary band; and The comparing step indicates that a match exists when the real data associated with each secondary band each falls within a corresponding range of the same combination of divisions of the total intensity included in the reference data.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: said wavelength band of said incident optical radiation extends from 360 nm to 405 nm; The main wavelength band extends from 400 nm to 700 nm; The first sub-band extends from 600 nm to 700 nm; The second sub-band extends from 500 nm to 600 nm; A third sub-band extends from 400 nm to 500 nm; and The reference data includes at least one of the following combinations of divisions of the total intensity: - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 20-45%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 30-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-40%; or - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 3-8%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 60-72%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-32%; or - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 0-3%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 25-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 60-75%.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic control unit is programmed to allow the beverage to be prepared only if the comparison step indicates that the real data matches the reference data.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The electronic control unit is programmed to allow the beverage to be prepared only if the comparison step indicates that the real data matches the reference data.

5. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The electronic control unit is connected to the hot water supply devices to control their operation and is programmed to control the operation of the hot water supply devices differently if the comparing step indicates that the real data matches the reference data than if the comparing step indicates that the real data does not match the reference data.

6. The system according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The saved reference data includes a plurality of said individual combinations, wherein the electronic control unit is connected to the hot water supply devices to control their operation and is programmed to control the operation of the hot water supply devices in different ways depending on which combination of the saved reference data matches the real data.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The capsule (4) further comprises a dispensing unit (14) which is interposed between the feed wall (9) and the powdered food substance (5) and is provided with at least one through hole or is water-permeable, and wherein the identification element (11) is associated with the dispensing unit (14) or is integrated in the dispensing unit (14).

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The capsule (4) further comprises a dispensing unit (14) which is interposed between the feed wall (9) and the powdered food substance (5) and is provided with at least one through hole or is water-permeable, and wherein the identification element (11) is constituted by the dispensing unit (14).

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein: The dispensing unit (14) is made of a polypropylene-based or PLA-based mixture.

10. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The capsule (4) is fully recyclable or fully compostable.

11. A capsule for preparing a beverage, said capsule containing a powdered food substance (5) and comprising: a housing (6) in which an inlet wall (9) and an outlet wall (10) are identifiable; and an identification element (11) placed inside the housing (6), wherein, when it is illuminated with incident optical radiation having a predetermined wavelength, the identification element (11) is configured to: emit and / or reflect return optical radiation, the return optical radiation comprising a plurality of separate secondary bands of wavelengths, the secondary bands being included in a main band of wavelengths, and the return optical radiation having a total intensity in the main band, the total intensity being divided into each of the secondary bands according to a predetermined pattern, wherein the identification element (11) when it is illuminated with incident optical radiation having a wavelength between 360 and 405 nanometers when illuminated by incident optical radiation of a predetermined wavelength, emits and / or reflects return optical radiation, said return optical radiation having, with respect to said total intensity in said main wavelength band having a wavelength between 400 nanometers and 700 nanometers, a division of its intensity into a first secondary wavelength band having a wavelength between 600 nanometers and 700 nanometers, into a second secondary wavelength band having a wavelength between 500 nanometers and 600 nanometers, and into a third secondary wavelength band having a wavelength between 400 nanometers and 500 nanometers, said division being selected from the group consisting of a combination of the following divisions of intensity: - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 20-45%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 30-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-40%; or - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 3-8%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 60-72%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-32%; or - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 0-3%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 25-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 60-75%.

12. The capsule according to claim 11, wherein The capsule (4) further comprises a dispensing unit (14) which is interposed between the feed wall (9) and the powdered food substance (5) and is provided with at least one through hole or is water-permeable, and wherein the identification element (11) is associated with the dispensing unit (14) or is integrated in the dispensing unit (14).

13. The capsule according to claim 11, wherein The capsule (4) further comprises a dispensing unit (14) which is interposed between the feed wall (9) and the powdered food substance (5) and is provided with at least one through hole or is water-permeable, and wherein the identification element (11) is constituted by the dispensing unit (14).

14. The capsule according to claim 13, wherein The dispensing unit (14) is made of a polypropylene-based or PLA-based mixture.

15. The capsule according to claim 11, wherein The capsule (4) is fully recyclable or fully compostable.

16. A brewing unit for preparing a beverage using a capsule (4) containing a powdered food substance (5), wherein The capsule (4) comprises a housing (6) in which an inlet wall (9) and an outlet wall (10) are identifiable; and an identification element (11) placed inside the housing (6), wherein the brewing unit (2) comprises a first part (19) and a second part (20), the first part (19) and the second part (20) being switchable between an original configuration, in which they are at a distance from each other, and a brewing configuration in which they are coupled and define a pouring chamber (3) therebetween, the pouring chamber (3) being configured to receive the capsule (4), and wherein the brewing unit (2) further comprises: a first perforating unit (17) configured to pierce the feed wall (9) of the capsule (4) inserted in the pouring chamber (3); supply means for supplying hot water inside the capsule (4) inserted in the pouring chamber (3) through the feed wall (9); and means for causing an outflow of a beverage from inside the capsule (4) inserted in the pouring chamber (3) and through the outflow wall (10), the beverage having been formed after the interaction of the hot water with the powdered food substance (5); an illumination device (26) associated with the first perforation unit (17) and configured to illuminate the identification element (11) with incident optical radiation having a known wavelength band, and a detection device (13) associated with the first perforation unit (17) and configured to detect return optical radiation emitted and / or reflected by the identification element (11) after illumination with the incident optical radiation; an electronic control unit connected to the detection device (13) to receive therefrom real data relating to the characteristics of the returned optical radiation, the electronic control unit being programmed to perform: a comparison step in which the real data are compared with stored reference data; and a management step in which it manages the operation of the brewing unit (2) in a different way if the comparison step indicates that the real data match the reference data than if the comparison step indicates that the real data do not match the reference data; Among them, in addition: With reference to a plurality of individual secondary bands of wavelength which collectively constitute a primary band of wavelengths, said real data comprises a division of the total intensity of said return optical radiation detected by said detection means (13) in said primary band into each of said secondary bands; The reference data includes one or more combinations of divisions of the total intensity into each sub-band; each of the one or more combinations of divisions of the total intensity comprises, for each secondary band, a range of values for an allowable intensity of optical radiation received in the secondary band relative to a contribution of the total intensity received in the primary band; and The comparing step indicates that a match exists when the real data associated with each secondary band each falls within a corresponding range of the same combination of divisions of the total intensity included in the reference data.

17. The brewing unit according to claim 16, wherein: said wavelength band of said incident optical radiation extends from 360 nm to 405 nm; The main wavelength band extends from 400 nm to 700 nm; The first sub-band extends from 600 nm to 700 nm; The second sub-band extends from 500 nm to 600 nm; A third sub-band extends from 400 nm to 500 nm; and The reference data includes at least one of the following combinations of divisions of the total intensity: - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 20-45%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 30-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-40%; or - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 3-8%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 60-72%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 20-32%; or - the intensity in the first sub-band is in the range of 0-3%, the intensity in the second sub-band is in the range of 25-40%, and the intensity in the third sub-band is in the range of 60-75%.

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